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Symbolism in
Japan is a big part of the culture. Temari given with
symbolic meanings are very special to the recipient. All Temari are considered
to bring good luck, but for special occasions you may want to consider the
following:
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Births or
Birthdays
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Cranes and turtles
are symbolic of longevity because they live long lives.
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Chrysanthemums,
Sakura (cherry blossoms), daisies, & plum blossoms are greatly admired.
Flowers having many petals represent many years of life and a wish for good
fortune.
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The flax-leaf
symbolizes parents' wishes for their children to grow straight and tall.
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Weddings &
Anniversaries
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Chrysanthemums are
an honored flower. They have many petals which slowly drop, one by one. This
is representative of long life and good luck.
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The pine and the
bamboo remain green all winter long and symbolize endurance. The pine needles
also grow in pairs and are symbolic of serenity, faithfulness and loyalty.
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The crane is known
as “the bird of happiness.” It symbolizes fidelity, prosperity and longevity
because it mates for life and lives a long life. In modern
Japan, it
also represents peace.
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Sakura (cherry
blossoms) symbolize loyalty and the love between parent and child.
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The Pine and rose,
when used together, represent the love of contrast in Japan or the principle
that opposites attract or, in other words, the yin and yang concept. Pine is
masculine, strong and bold. The rose is feminine, beautiful and fragile.
The rose also symbolizes love.
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Lily symbolizes
purity.
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Major changes
in one’s life (Retirement, job change, move, etc.)
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Plum blossoms are symbolic for hope & new beginnings or overcoming
difficulties.
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Sakura (cherry
blossoms) are also representative of beauty being short-lived and reminds us
to treasure every moment.
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Fans, with their
expanding size, symbolize a wish for unlimited success.
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Colors and numbers have symbolism too, as shown below:
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Red and White are
auspicious colors, bringing good luck.
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Odd numbers are
also "lucky" or auspicious.
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Temari stitched in
multiples of five, are especially considered to bring good luck
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Copyright
© April 2004 Kathleen M. Hewitt