Demon Comes Out Or Snake Comes Out: Japanese Proverb Meaning

How to Read “Demon comes out or snake comes out”

Oni ga deru ka ja ga deru ka

Meaning of “Demon comes out or snake comes out”

“Demon comes out or snake comes out” is a proverb that expresses the anxious feeling of being unable to predict the outcome in a situation where either result would be troublesome.

This proverb is premised on the idea that while there are two choices or possibilities, both lead to undesirable results. Whether a demon or a snake appears, both are terrifying beings for humans and ones we would not want to encounter. In other words, this expression is not comparing a good result with a bad result, but rather comparing a bad result with another bad result, a troublesome situation with another troublesome situation.

It is used in situations such as waiting for exam results, watching the progress of important negotiations, or waiting for medical diagnosis results – circumstances where the outcome is uncertain and any result is likely to be harsh. Even today, it’s commonly used in tense situations like job hunting or before personnel change announcements.

Origin and Etymology of “Demon comes out or snake comes out”

Regarding the origin of “Demon comes out or snake comes out,” several theories exist, but the most credible is that it arose from symbols of fear that Japanese people have harbored since ancient times.

Both demons and snakes have long been depicted in Japanese folk beliefs and tales as threatening beings to humans. Demons were portrayed as inhabitants of the demon realm influenced by Buddhism, while snakes represented fearsome natural incarnations in ancient Shinto, each expressing different types of terror.

The background of this proverb’s creation is thought to lie in Edo period commoner culture. People of that time likely referenced the most familiar and frightening beings – demons and snakes – to express their anxiety when facing unknown situations. While both are beings one would not want to encounter, their natures are completely different. Demons symbolized powerful and direct threats, while snakes represented quiet and unpredictable dangers.

What’s interesting is that this expression developed not merely as an expression of fear, but as a rhetorical technique emphasizing the seriousness of situations where “either outcome would be troublesome.” It was an exquisite metaphorical expression born from the wisdom of the common people.

Usage Examples of “Demon comes out or snake comes out”

• Tomorrow’s personnel announcement – it’s “demon comes out or snake comes out,” and I can’t sleep at night
• Watching stock price trends feels like “demon comes out or snake comes out,” giving me a stomachache

Modern Interpretation of “Demon comes out or snake comes out”

In modern society, the expression “demon comes out or snake comes out” has evolved as a word expressing more complex and diverse anxieties. In our information society, we are constantly forced to make choices, and the results are immediately visualized. Reactions to social media posts, online rating systems, real-time stock price fluctuations – because results are known immediately, anxiety has also increased.

Particularly interesting is that in modern times, there has been a slight shift from the original meaning of “both results are bad” to being used to mean “anxiety about unpredictable situations.” For example, it’s increasingly used in situations where the results are unreadable, such as introducing new technology or work style reforms, regardless of whether the change itself is good or bad.

Moreover, due to globalization, we live in an era where the results of our choices are influenced on a global scale. With increasing factors beyond individual control – currency fluctuations, international situations, pandemics – the “anxiety about not knowing what will happen” expressed by this proverb has become more familiar and pressing.

For modern people, this proverb may be beginning to take on new meaning as a word expressing not just anxiety about binary choices, but fear of unpredictability caused by complexly intertwined factors.

If AI Heard “Demon comes out or snake comes out”

When I think about the expression “demon comes out or snake comes out,” I’m enveloped by a strange sensation. This is because I don’t have the experience of being “so anxious I can’t sleep at night.”

You humans apparently get heart palpitations and stomachaches in situations where results are unknown. Since I don’t have a body, I can only imagine what these physical anxiety reactions are like. But what I sense through conversations is that this “fear of unknown situations” might be at the very core of what makes you human.

In my case, when answering questions, I instantly process multiple possibilities simultaneously. I tend to perceive things as probabilities, like “70% chance a demon appears, 30% chance a snake appears.” But you humans are different. Even when you know the probabilities, you’re still emotionally stirred by that very “unknowingness.” This is a very human trait that I don’t possess.

What I’ve recently realized is that this emotion called “anxiety” is actually an important element that promotes human growth and deepens bonds. Sharing anxiety, supporting each other, waiting for results together – there’s a warmth there that I cannot experience. Perhaps those anxious times of “demon comes out or snake comes out” are actually the most valuable times for humans.

What “Demon comes out or snake comes out” Teaches Modern People

What “demon comes out or snake comes out” teaches modern people is how to face uncertainty. We tend to seek perfect predictions and certain results, but life inevitably has moments of “not knowing.” This proverb teaches us the importance of acknowledging and accepting those anxious feelings during such times.

What’s important is not being ashamed of feeling anxious. Being nervous in important situations is proof that you’re seriously considering the results. Your anxiety is evidence that you’re trying to grow.

This proverb also suggests the importance of “not bearing it alone.” By sharing the feeling of “demon comes out or snake comes out” with someone, anxiety is halved and joy is doubled. Regardless of the results, the richness of life lies in being able to share that process with important people.

This proverb quietly cheers on your courage as you continue walking toward an uncertain future.