How to Read “弁慶の泣き所”
Benkei no nakidokoro
Meaning of “弁慶の泣き所”
“Benkei’s crying place” is a proverb that refers to the weaknesses or vulnerable areas that even the strongest or most excellent people inevitably possess.
This expression is used when discovering unexpected weaknesses in people or things, or when pointing out the vulnerable aspects of someone who usually appears strong. It is not used to attack others, but rather is often employed with understanding and empathy, conveying the message that “it’s natural for even seemingly perfect people to have weaknesses.” In modern times, it is used to express that even excellent personnel or robust systems inevitably have areas that need improvement or require attention. Behind this proverb lies the humble Japanese view of human nature that no one is perfect, and it contains a warm perspective that regards having weaknesses not as something shameful, but rather as proof of one’s humanity.
Origin and Etymology
The origin of “Benkei’s crying place” is related to Musashibo Benkei, a real warrior monk from the late Heian period. Benkei was known as a retainer of Minamoto no Yoshitsune and has been passed down through history as a person of extraordinary strength and fierce courage. Despite having numerous tales of military prowess, this expression is said to have originated from the idea that even the strongest person must have weaknesses.
In Benkei’s case, the theory that his shin was his weakness is generally accepted. The shin has bone directly beneath the skin with little muscle protection, so even someone with Benkei’s robust physique would find it difficult to endure the pain when struck there. Indeed, even today, everyone experiences the pain of bumping their shin.
The background to this proverb’s establishment lies in the fact that Benkei was a very relatable hero for the Japanese people. Repeatedly depicted in “The Chronicle of Yoshitsune,” Noh theater, and Kabuki, he was beloved as a strong figure with human qualities who was not perfect. By expressing the universal truth that even the most excellent people have weaknesses through a relatable character, this proverb was widely accepted by people.
Interesting Facts
The “shin” that has been passed down as Benkei’s crying place is indeed one of the human body’s weak points from a modern medical perspective. This area has the thick tibia bone directly beneath the skin with almost no muscle protection, making it structured to feel intense pain even from slight impact.
Interestingly, the story that even a martial artist of Benkei’s caliber couldn’t overcome shin pain is thought to be related to the armor and combat styles of that era. The armor of Heian period warriors was designed to primarily protect the upper body, with relatively thin protection for the shin area, making it likely a vulnerable spot in actual combat as well.
Usage Examples
- That department manager apparently has English as his Benkei’s crying place, and suddenly falls silent when overseas business trips come up.
- No matter how high-performance a smartphone is, battery life becomes its Benkei’s crying place.
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, the concept of “Benkei’s crying place” has taken on more complex and multifaceted meanings. In our information society, where individual or corporate weaknesses can be instantly disseminated and have major impacts, the importance of this proverb could be said to be increasing.
Particularly in the business world, the recognition that even excellent personnel or successful companies inevitably have weaknesses is valued from the perspectives of risk management and human resource development. In modern society, which tends to seek perfection, strategic planning and organizational management that assumes the existence of weaknesses are required.
On the other hand, the spread of social media has also created a tendency to find and attack others’ weaknesses. This is the complete opposite of the proverb’s original spirit. The true meaning of “Benkei’s crying place” is understanding and accepting that weaknesses exist, not using them as ammunition for attacks.
In modern times, with the development of AI technology, numerous systems have been developed to complement human weaknesses. However, it has become clear that these AI systems themselves have their own “Benkei’s crying place.” This may be renewed proof of the universal truth of this proverb that nothing perfect exists.
When AI Hears This
The weakness shown in “Benkei’s weak spot” was a remarkably straightforward physical vulnerability. No matter how strong someone might be, a kick to the shin would cause pain—a physiological limitation that everyone could understand. However, the weaknesses that modern powerhouses face have become surprisingly complex.
Google dominates the world through search technology, yet the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) hit them with approximately $50 million in fines in 2018 alone. Amazon maintains overwhelming superiority in logistics, while criticism of their working conditions affects their stock price. Tennis queen Naomi Osaka shocked the world when she withdrew from the French Open due to mental health concerns.
What’s most fascinating is how these modern weaknesses are “invisible.” Anyone could target Benkei’s shin, but exploiting GAFA’s vulnerabilities requires legal expertise, and understanding top athletes’ psychological struggles demands knowledge of psychology. Furthermore, while past weaknesses were individual, today’s vulnerabilities lurk within relationships with society as a whole—”social responsibility,” “environmental issues,” and “ethical considerations.”
Modern powerhouses may be overwhelming in terms of technology and capability, yet they’re surprisingly fragile against the “invisible attacks” of changing social values and expectations.
Lessons for Today
What “Benkei’s crying place” teaches modern people is the danger of seeking too much perfection and the importance of accepting weaknesses. In times when we tend to see only others’ brilliant aspects on social media and compare ourselves to them, remembering the obvious fact that everyone has weaknesses is important for mental health.
Whether at work or at home, when we discover someone’s weaknesses, it’s a chance to show understanding rather than attack. When an excellent colleague has unexpected struggles in certain areas, or when family members who always act tough are actually harboring anxieties, we can support each other.
Also, by honestly acknowledging our own weaknesses, we become more receptive to help from others. Being able to say “This is my Benkei’s crying place” might actually be a great strength. It’s because we have weaknesses that connections with people are born, and opportunities for growth arise. Forgiving our imperfect selves and warmly accepting others’ imperfections. Hints for creating such a kind society are embedded in this ancient proverb.
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