Manekineko (beckoning cat) is a typical Japanese good-luck charm that is believed to attract good luck and wealth with its beckoning appearance. Although beckoning cats can be seen in various places wishing for prosperous business and family happiness, not many people may know much about their history, types, and the meanings of the different hands and colors. This article details the types, meanings, and history of beckoning cats.
types and meanings of Maneki-nekos
The Maneki-neko has different meanings depending on the way it raises its hands and its color. Let’s take a look at the type of wishes and luck each one holds.
Meanings according to the different hands
Maneki-neko with raised right hand
A cat with its right hand raised is believed to invite wealth and money. It is especially favored when wishing for prosperous business or financial wealth.
Maneki-neko with its left hand raised
A cat with its left hand raised is meant to invite people in and wish for more customers. A Maneki-neko with its left hand raised is often seen in restaurants and stores.
Maneki-neko with both hands raised
A cat with both hands raised is believed to bring general good luck, such as domestic safety and health. However, some people think that the figure with both hands raised looks “greedy,” so some people choose carefully.
Meanings of Maneki-neko by color
The color of the Maneki-neko also has different meanings.
White Maneki-neko
It symbolizes purity and happiness and is often chosen to wish for peace and happiness in the home.
Black Maneki-neko
It is often placed to ward off evil and evil spirits, especially when wishing for the safety of women and children.
Gold-colored Maneki-neko
As a color that attracts money and fortune, it is popular in situations where one wishes for business and prosperity.
Red Maneki-neko
Symbolizing good health and good health, it is said to be useful in preventing illness and taking care of one’s health.
Blue Maneki-neko
The color is often chosen to wish for academic success and business success, especially for students and business people.
History of the Maneki-neko
There are various theories about the origin of the Maneki-neko, but it is believed to date back to the Edo period (1603-1868). The following two stories are well known as the main theories.
Legend of Gotokuji Temple concerning the Maneki-neko
Gotokuji Temple in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, is said to be the birthplace of the Maneki-neko. Legend has it that a samurai passing by Gotokuji saw the temple’s cat raising its hand in invitation and entered the temple, where he was able to avoid a thunderstorm and listen to a priest preach. Later, samurai supported Gotokuji, the temple prospered, and it is said that Maneki-nekos came to be made as a sign of gratitude.
The legend of the Maneki-neko, Imado Shrine in Asakusa
Another well-known theory is the legend of the Imado Shrine in Tokyo. It is said that a poor woman’s cat appeared to her in a dream and told her that if she made a Maneki-neko, it would bring her good luck, which led her to start making Maneki-neko, which then spread as a good-luck charm for prosperous business. Imado Shrine is still a sacred place for Maneki-nekos and is visited by many worshippers.
Modern Maneki-neko and their popularity
Even today, the Maneki-neko is a popular item in many situations. It is known as a symbol of good luck not only in Japan but also in other parts of the world, and is purchased as a souvenir in many countries. New types of the Maneki-nekos incorporating modern designs and materials have also appeared, which can be enjoyed as interior decorations or accessories.
The Maneki-neko‘s unique appearance and deep meaning continue to be loved by many people. The figure of a raised hand is adorable, and at the same time, it contains people’s wishes and prayers, making it more than a mere figurine, and it is still a part of our daily lives.
Conclusion
The Maneki-neko has a deep history as a traditional Japanese good-luck charm, and each way of raising the hands and each color has a different meaning. With the legends associated with Gotokuji Temple and Imado Shrine as its background, it has grown along with Japanese people’s lives, and today it is familiar to many people across borders. The charm of the little cat with its raised hand that makes us feel as if it is inviting us to bring us luck has not changed and will continue to be loved.
