Special Daruma 18 cm - Luck - Made in Japan

Daruma, Daruma: I choose a goal and draw one eye. When I have achieved it, I will draw the other.

Following tradition, the eyebrows of this special Daruma are shaped like cranes, and the beard on its cheeks resembles the scales of a turtle. These two animals are symbols of longevity in Japan. In addition to the kanji for luck painted on its chin, it features others on each side of the head expressing the desire for well-being, peace, and prosperity within the home.

What is it about?

Daruma 達磨, also called a wish doll, is a Japanese good luck charm. Made of papier-mâché, it represents the monk Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism. According to legend, he attained enlightenment after meditating alone in a cave for 9 years, but lost his arms and legs which had atrophied. Hence the distinctive shape of Daruma.

How to proceed

Choose a goal and draw the first eye on Daruma. When you have achieved it, draw the second eye as a sign of gratitude. As a learning experience, note how you reached your goal: it is a moment of great personal satisfaction. If you do not get what you wish for, you can then burn your Daruma at the end of the year. This simply means you will look for other ways to reach your goal.

The spirit of Daruma

This figurine reminds us that if we are determined and persistent, we will achieve the goal we set. In this sense, it is essential that the goal be specific and achievable. It is not about buying a Daruma and then waiting for things to happen magically: Daruma motivates us and invites us to strive for success. In Japan, any occasion is good for giving a Daruma, especially birthdays and New Year.