What Does “Mukashi Totta Kinezuka” Mean?
The Japanese proverb “Mukashi Totta Kinezuka” (昔取った杵柄) refers to the idea that skills and experiences acquired in the past do not fade over time and can still be useful later in life. It is often used when someone who has not practiced a skill for years can still perform it surprisingly well.
For example, if someone who used to play a sport in their youth picks it up again after many years and plays better than expected, this proverb would be a perfect fit.
What Is a “Kinezuka”?
The word “Kinezuka” (杵柄) refers to the handle of a wooden pestle (“Kine”) used in traditional Japanese mochi pounding (mochi-tsuki). In the past, mochi pounding was an important event, and those with experience could skillfully pound rice into mochi.
Thus, the proverb metaphorically suggests that someone who used to handle a “Kine” skillfully in the past can still do so years later, just like any other skill learned long ago.
How to Use “Mukashi Totta Kinezuka”
This proverb is often used in situations where past skills come in handy again. Here are some common examples:
1. When an old skill remains useful despite a long break
- Example: “I haven’t played the piano in years, but when I tried again, I could still play thanks to ‘Mukashi Totta Kinezuka’!”
2. When past expertise is unexpectedly useful
- Example: “He used to be a carpenter when he was young, so he can still fix things around the house effortlessly—Mukashi Totta Kinezuka!”
3. When someone returns to an old hobby or profession
- Example: “My father was a Kendo champion in his youth. Even now, when he picks up a bamboo sword, his ‘Mukashi Totta Kinezuka’ skills shine through!”
Similar Japanese Proverbs
If you like “Mukashi Totta Kinezuka,” you might find these related proverbs interesting:
- “Gei wa mi wo tasuku” (芸は身を助く)
- Meaning: “A learned skill will help you in life.” This proverb highlights how skills acquired in the past can be useful in unexpected situations.
- “Toshiyori no Hiyamizu” (年寄りの冷や水)
- Meaning: “An old person drinking cold water” (a warning against overestimating one’s abilities). Unlike “Mukashi Totta Kinezuka,” this proverb implies that past skills might not always be useful in the present.
Conclusion
“Mukashi Totta Kinezuka” is a fascinating Japanese proverb that emphasizes how skills and experiences gained in the past can remain valuable even after many years. The word “Kinezuka” comes from the handle of a traditional wooden pestle used for mochi pounding, symbolizing the ability to retain one’s proficiency over time.
So next time you find yourself excelling at something you haven’t done in years, remember this saying and appreciate the skills you’ve built over time!
