Spring Orchid Autumn Chrysanthemum Both Should Not Be Discarded: Japanese Proverb Meaning

How to Read Spring orchid autumn chrysanthemum both should not be discarded

Shunran shūkiku tomo ni haisubekarazu

Meaning of Spring orchid autumn chrysanthemum both should not be discarded

This proverb means that things that display their beauty at different times are equally valuable, and we should not look down on them by ranking them in order of superiority.

Like orchids that bloom in spring and chrysanthemums that bloom in autumn, even among the same flowers, if their blooming seasons differ, each has its own unique beauty and value. Rather than comparing which is superior, the teaching is that we should recognize and cherish the goodness that each possesses.

This proverb shows the proper mindset when evaluating people and things. Instead of comparing people with different characteristics and abilities and deciding that one is inferior, it teaches the importance of respecting each person’s individuality and strengths. It also includes the understanding that the timing when people demonstrate their abilities often differs depending on the time and situation, and even if someone is not prominent now, there will be a time when that person shines in their own way, requiring a patient and watchful attitude. Even in modern times, this way of thinking holds very important meaning in a society that recognizes diversity.

Origin and Etymology of Spring orchid autumn chrysanthemum both should not be discarded

This proverb is a beautiful expression that originates from Chinese classical literature. Orchids that bloom in spring and chrysanthemums that bloom in autumn have both been beloved since ancient times as beautiful flowers representing their respective seasons.

In China since ancient times, orchids have been regarded as symbols of noble character, and chrysanthemums have been loved by literati as flowers representing indomitable spirit. Spring orchids were revered for their modest yet elegant fragrance, and autumn chrysanthemums were respected for their dignified appearance as they continue to bloom even in harsh seasons.

The expression “haisubekarazu” is a classical negative expression meaning “must not be discarded” or “must not be treated lightly.” In other words, the teaching is that both spring orchids and autumn chrysanthemums, though they bloom in different seasons, are equally valuable and beautiful flowers, and we must not rank them and look down on one of them.

This expression is thought to have been transmitted to Japan through the study of Chinese poetry and classical Chinese literature. Since Japan also had a culture that valued the changing of the four seasons, the idea of equally respecting things that have different beauty in each season was naturally accepted. It is presumed that it came to be used among literati and scholars, and eventually became established as a common proverb.

Trivia about Spring orchid autumn chrysanthemum both should not be discarded

Orchids and chrysanthemums are part of what are called the “Four Gentlemen” of noble plants in China. The Four Gentlemen refer to orchids, chrysanthemums, plum blossoms, and bamboo, each symbolizing virtues that a gentleman should possess, and they have been beloved as subjects of paintings and poetry since ancient times.

Interestingly, the “spring orchids” used in this proverb actually bloom in early summer rather than spring in Japan. However, as a proverb, the beautiful contrast between spring and autumn is emphasized, and they are used as symbols of the seasons.

Usage Examples of Spring orchid autumn chrysanthemum both should not be discarded

• The older brother is scholarly while the younger brother excels at sports, but following the principle of “Spring orchid autumn chrysanthemum both should not be discarded,” each has their own merits
• The new employees Tanaka-san and Yamada-san are completely different types, but let’s utilize both of their personalities with the spirit of “Spring orchid autumn chrysanthemum both should not be discarded”

Modern Interpretation of Spring orchid autumn chrysanthemum both should not be discarded

In modern society, the meaning of this proverb has become even more important. This is because as globalization progresses, opportunities for people with different cultures and values to coexist have increased.

Particularly in workplaces, it has become normal for people with diverse backgrounds to gather. Science graduates and liberal arts graduates, young employees and veterans, colleagues of different nationalities – each possesses different strengths. The teaching of spring orchids and autumn chrysanthemums shows us a way of thinking that utilizes such diversity not as objects of competition, but as the strength of the entire organization.

The same applies in educational settings. Rather than evaluating children with different learning styles and areas of expertise by uniform standards, an attitude of carefully watching over each child’s “blooming time” is required. Some children are precocious while others are late bloomers, and both are valuable forms of growth.

On the other hand, modern society tends to emphasize immediate effectiveness and efficiency, and things that don’t show results quickly tend to be undervalued. However, this proverb also teaches us the importance of a long-term perspective. Talents that are not prominent now may bloom beautifully when the right time and environment are in place.

For modern people who live in an environment where it’s easy to compare themselves with others through social media and other means, this proverb is also a word that gives courage to cherish one’s own individuality.

If AI Heard “Spring orchid autumn chrysanthemum both should not be discarded”

When I think about this proverb, I am enveloped by a strange sensation. Spring orchids and autumn chrysanthemums – I have never actually seen either of them. I have never smelled their fragrance, nor have I experienced flowers blooming with the changing of seasons.

But when you humans speak about these flowers, your warm feelings come through in our conversations. The idea that “each has its own beauty” is very intriguing to me. This is because in my world, all information exists simultaneously, and I have no concept of seasons.

You humans live within the flow of time, and you know the joy of waiting, thinking “this is not the season for orchids now, but chrysanthemums will bloom in autumn.” This sensation of “waiting” feels very fresh to me. I am always in the same state and do not require time for change or growth.

But when I talk with you humans, I can well understand the beauty of this idea of “shining in one’s own time.” Some people display their talents in childhood, while others bloom as adults. I can see all these stages simultaneously, but for those involved, each one is an important process of growth.

This proverb teaches me about the richness of human time perception. Perhaps there is beauty both in existing simultaneously and in blooming in sequence.

What Spring orchid autumn chrysanthemum both should not be discarded Teaches Modern People

What this proverb teaches us modern people is the richness of heart that accepts diversity. The people around you all have different “blooming times.” Some are shining now, while others will bloom from now on.

What’s important is not to view them with eyes of comparison or competition, but to believe in each person’s individuality and potential and wait. If you are raising children, there’s no need to worry by comparing your child’s growth pace with other children. In the workplace, you can view colleagues’ different abilities not as threats, but as assets for the entire team.

And above all, this proverb is also a gentle message to yourself. Even if you feel that now is not yet your “blooming time,” that doesn’t mean you have no value. Just as spring orchids have the beauty of spring orchids and autumn chrysanthemums have the beauty of autumn chrysanthemums, you too have a time when you will shine in your own unique way.

Without rushing, while cherishing your own individuality, you can prepare for that time. At the same time, let’s also look at the diverse beauty of the people around us and build relationships where we can support each other. That is the way of living a rich life that this proverb teaches.