Introduction
Have you ever wondered which coins are best for making offerings at Japanese shrines and temples? In Japan, certain coins are considered lucky, while others are thought to bring bad luck. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind these beliefs and help you make the most auspicious choice when visiting a shrine or temple.
The Lucky 5 Yen Coin
The 5 yen coin is considered lucky due to a wordplay in the Japanese language. “Go-en” (五円), which means “5 yen,” sounds similar to “goen” (ご縁), meaning “good connection” or “good relationship.” By offering a 5 yen coin, it’s believed that you’ll be blessed with good connections, opportunities, and luck. Additionally, the hole in the center of the coin is thought to symbolize a clear view of the future and the smooth flow of fortune.
Why You Should Avoid the 10 Yen Coin
On the other hand, the 10 yen coin is often avoided due to another wordplay. “Juu-en” (十円), meaning “10 yen,” can be read as “tooen” (遠縁), which translates to “distant connection.” This implies that offering a 10 yen coin might lead to the distancing of relationships, opportunities, and luck. Some also believe that the “juu” (十) in “juu-en” is associated with the character “juu” (重), meaning “heavy,” which can evoke negative feelings of burden or hardship.
The Cultural Context
Offering coins at shrines and temples is a way to express one’s wishes and prayers to the gods and buddhas. Naturally, people prefer to choose coins that are believed to bring good luck. While the connections between specific coins and their perceived luck are based on wordplay and puns, Japanese culture has long been influenced by such linguistic associations. It might be worth believing in these traditions and incorporating them into your own practices.
Conclusion
The wordplay associated with the 5 yen and 10 yen coins reveals a deeply rooted custom in Japanese culture. Even the choice of which coin to offer at a shrine or temple carries a special meaning. The 5 yen coin is believed to invite good fortune, while the 10 yen coin is often avoided. Consider these beliefs when deciding which coins to use for your next offering.
