Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Teru teru bozu and Annular Solar Eclipse

(posted; Japanese culture)
My husband was so excited to observe the annular solar eclipse this Monday (wow, TV said the former one took place 932 years ago) and all prepared having bought a glasses for it.  Unfortunately, we heard the sound of rain that morning (it was supposed to be seen around 7:20 in the morning). Poor husband looked quite disappointed to have missed such a rare chance.




*Teru teru bozu 
His discouragement reminded me of one of traditional Japanese doll or amulet used to ward off rain. A little traditional hand-made doll made of white paper or cloth that Japanese farmers began hanging outside of their window by a string. It is called teru teru bozu link  and literally translates to "shiny shiny monk".  "Teru" is a Japanese verb which describes sunshine, and a "bōzu" is a Buddhist monk, or in modern slang, "bald-headed"; it is also a term of endearment for addressing little boys. (quate from the link)
This doll is supposed to have magical powers to bring good weather. I DO remember my late mother made it for me the night before two-nights three days' school excursion when I was in the last year of elementary school. As are the other traditions, I don't think we can see this lovely doll much  in Japan. 
What is more, it is funny enough that if you hang it upside down, it will act like a prayer for rain. I found some cute ones here, so I'd like to show you some of them.
      If I had made it, it might have worked (*^_^*)





12 comments:

  1. I'm very sorry your husband missed the eclipse. That is very disappointing! I like the idea of the doll. They are so sweet. Thank you for sharing this and your story about your mother. Hugs and love to you.

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  2. Oh I'm sorry you didn't get to see the eclipse I can imagine how disappointed your husband must have felt. It is always annoying when the weather doesn't co-operate.
    I love to hear about the teru teru bozu dolls and the story about your mum is lovely.

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  3. I am sorry you all didn't get to see the eclipse. Sadly, somtimes things just don't work out. The little dolls are cute, and I loved, loved the story of your mom making you one, my dear friend Miyako!

    You are such a good teacher and I always learn from your wondeful posts!

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  4. So sorry you did not get a chance to see the eclipse due to weather. It happens here for me too, the big moon a couple of weeks ago, it was too cloudy to see. Oh well. I think these little dolls are adorable. Very cute story. ((hugs)) xo

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  5. Oh... I'm sorry the weather did not cooperate...I wonder when will be the next chance for annular solar eclipse. (Another 932 years?)
    But Miyako san, teru teru bozu!!! Very very natsukashii!!! I made them when I was child. And the ones hung upside down :-) I remember in Doraemon episode, it was called rute rute bozu :-)

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  6. It's a shame your husband wasn't able to see the eclipse because of the weather. Sunday we planned a cookout to say goodbye to my granddaughter and her friends and it turned out to be the one day of the whole week that it was cold and raining. If I'd known about the dolls sooner I could have made one to assure we had good weather for the day. It is always of interest the things you share in your posts. Maybe we won't have to wait so long for the next eclipse and you can have a doll made in time to assure good weather. Enjoy your day my bs. Love always, Maddy

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  7. So sorry that your hubby didn't get to see the eclipse. Maybe it would have helped to have some of those little dolls on hand (smile).
    Hugs,
    Glenda

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  8. Dearest Miyako san,
    I am very happy with your husband thinking wishes for not eclipse....
    teru teru bosu are natukashi??
    I feel like to only speak to Japanese okasan and Otosan...
    Very happy with me tonight...

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  9. Sorry you hubby missed the eclipse, and isn't it a shame when some of our great traditions fade away and get forgotten........this one with the doll sounds like a cute tradition

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  10. Dearest Miyako,

    So sorry you missed it due to the rain...
    Cute doll for causing rain. The first photo I like best, it is crocheted.
    Did you read my post about the Japanese silk thread Kinkame? Only 3 more hours and it will be replaced by my new post. I thought you might like this Japanese quality mention.
    Love to you,
    Mariette

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  11. What an interesting custom!
    Liz @ Shortbread & Ginger

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  12. I'm so sorry you missed the annular solar eclipse. I think one of those precious teru teru bozu would have done the job. I love those little sweeties! Hugs to you sweetie!

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