Numbers have always had specific definitions in every culture. Even though the superstitions about numbers being lucky or unlucky belong to ancient times, these numbers and the horrifying stories behind them still determine human behavior. In fact, people often set their lives around them with the fear that even a single digit can bring misfortune. These numbers vary according to the customs of each country and Japan is one of these countries where numbers play a particularly powerful role.
Japanese culture is hands down one of the most enticing, as it has a long history and tangled roots. As far back as anyone can remember, the Japanese assigned specific symbolism to certain numbers.
In this article, we will talk about 5 of these numbers that can alter your destiny, according to Japanese traditions.
1. Unlucky Number 4
Across much of East Asia, 4 is one of the most frightening digits. Japan is no exception and people in this country tend to avoid this number at all costs. The reason why people are afraid of this number is that it’s pronounced similarly to the Japanese word for “death.” As a result, traditional Japanese people believe that the number 4 is a call to the Grim Reaper, which is a personification of death.
Interestingly, some people get so obsessed after encountering the number 4 that they require natural herbs, such as the Jealousy strain https://growdiaries.com/strains/jealousy, which is known for its calming, balanced effects for stress relief. But no matter how relaxed they feel, they would rather stay away from the unlucky number 4.
2. Lucky Number 7
The definition of the number 7 can be a bit complex. In Chinese culture, 7 is an unlucky number that can bring misfortune and destruction. But surprisingly, Japanese people consider number 7 as one of the luckiest. In fact, “lucky number 7” has almost become a mantra whenever 7 pops up and is quite common here.
The concept of the number 7 as “Seven Lucky Gods” comes from Buddhism and Shinto and for this reason, this number is known for bringing good fortune and happiness. In Japan, 7 is super popular in sports too, especially baseball. As a result, Japanese baseball teams tend to make their comebacks for the 7th inning to make the most of the spiritual power this number carries.
3. Lucky Number 5
The history behind the lucky number 5 is quite interesting. This superstition was born in the 5th-6th century, back when 5 natural elements were defined in Japanese mystical cosmology. Those were metal, wood, water, fire, and earth.
This revelation that nature consisted of 5 elements in total led to the belief that the number 5 is a lucky number. For Japanese people, besides nature, it represents fortune and blessing. The fortunate power of the number 5 is the most common among Japanese business owners, who often try to include this number in their brand marketing, as it symbolizes prosperity and stability.
4. Unlucky Number 9
Number 9 is known to be one of the most unfortunate numbers as well. Just like number 4, Japanese people avoid number 9 too in daily tasks. Even more, in the most extreme cases, they might even avoid including the number 9 on buildings, floors, public transport seats, shops, or displays.
This number is pronounced like “ku” in Japanese, which is a similar word with a meaning of suffering and struggle. This is why number 9 is always neglected in Japan. If not, society believes an awful event will be thrust upon them and they will suffer.
5. Unlucky Number 42
Although less talked about than the infamous 4, the number 42 also has a chilling reputation in Japanese culture. Nevertheless, this is probably one of the least common numbers in terms of superstitions about lucky and unlucky numbers.
This number is thought to be unlucky and bring misfortune because 4 and 2, if combined, are pronounced like “shini” which means “to die.” For this reason, 42 is often neglected in Japan in order to stay safe. Number 42 is specifically avoided among athletes and those who play sports so as not to jinx their luck and bring disaster to themselves. You will most likely not see this number on their jerseys.
Bottom Line
Japanese superstitions can be very intriguing and now you know the definition of the numbers that Japanese people tend to be super careful with. Even though these are superstitions, in Japan the rules about numbers are strictly followed, believing it will avoid unfortunate and scary occasions. Thus, if you feel afraid that things in your life don’t go well or have been feeling unlucky lately, maybe you should consider the beliefs about these 5 numbers.
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