How to Read “彼岸過ぎまで七雪”
Higan sugi made nanayuki
Meaning of “彼岸過ぎまで七雪”
“Other shore passing until seven snows” means that even after the spring equinox has passed, snow may still fall several more times, so one must not let their guard down.
This proverb expresses the unpredictability of nature during seasonal transitions. While the spring equinox marks the official beginning of spring on the calendar, actual weather conditions are not so simple. Even when warm days continue and people feel reassured that “spring has arrived,” sudden cold snaps can bring unexpected snowfall.
It is used in situations such as choosing appropriate clothing in early spring, planning agricultural work, or preparing for outings to encourage caution. It is also used as a lesson that even when things appear to be going smoothly, one must not become complacent until the very end. The reason for using this expression is to convey the importance of maintaining a humble attitude toward natural changes and the value of experience-based prudence. Even today, it is understood and used in its original meaning when describing unstable weather during seasonal transitions or when conveying that vigilance is essential until the very end in any matter.
Origin and Etymology
The origin of “Other shore passing until seven snows” is deeply rooted in Japan’s seasonal sensibilities and agricultural culture. This proverb emerged as an expression indicating that even after the spring equinox (the seven-day period centered around the vernal equinox, around late March), snow may still fall approximately seven more times.
Since ancient times in Japan, the spring equinox has been considered an important milestone marking the arrival of full spring. However, actual weather conditions do not follow the calendar precisely, and our ancestors learned through years of experience that unexpected snowfall could occur even after the equinox had passed. Particularly for those engaged in agriculture, weather changes during this period were extremely important information for managing crops and determining planting times.
The expression “seven snows” does not literally mean exactly seven times, but is used to mean “many times” or “several times.” This usage is similar to other Japanese expressions like “nanakorobi yaoki” (seven falls, eight rises) or “nanatsu dougu” (seven tools). The background of this proverb’s creation contains the wisdom of Japanese people skillfully expressing in words the subtle discrepancy between expectations for spring and actual weather conditions. It can be said to be a practical proverb based on natural observation, characteristic of Japanese people who are sensitive to seasonal changes.
Usage Examples
- It’s still April, and since “Other shore passing until seven snows,” I’ll keep my heavy coat out instead of putting it away
- Just because the cherry blossoms have bloomed doesn’t mean we can relax – “Other shore passing until seven snows” means it can suddenly turn cold
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, “Other shore passing until seven snows” has taken on new meaning in the era of climate change. With global warming making seasonal boundaries ambiguous and traditional seasonal sensibilities becoming less reliable, the “unpredictability of nature” that this proverb indicates has become even more realistic.
In our information society, weather forecast accuracy has improved and abundant meteorological data has become available. However, it is still impossible to completely predict natural changes. Perhaps because we live in an era of advanced science and technology, the lesson of “humility toward nature” that this proverb contains has become even more important.
This way of thinking can also be applied in modern business environments. Even when projects are progressing smoothly, unexpected problems can arise in the final stages. Rather than becoming complacent thinking “it’s almost finished, so everything will be fine,” a cautious approach until the very end is required.
While rapid technological development tends to distance us from nature, this proverb reminds us of the importance of paying attention to seasonal changes and being conscious of natural rhythms. Precisely because we live in an increasingly digital age, the value of this proverb is being reevaluated as an opportunity to listen to ancestral wisdom and reconsider ways of living in harmony with nature.
When AI Hears This
The observational record “Higan-sugi made nana-yuki” (seven snows after the spring equinox) created by Edo period farmers shows remarkable accuracy when compared to modern meteorological data. According to Japan Meteorological Agency data, Tokyo records an average of 5-8 snowfalls or snow days annually from late March to early April, making the “seven snows” prediction statistically extremely accurate.
However, this precision becomes most striking when contrasted with recent climate change. Due to global warming since the 1980s, post-equinox snowfall frequency has clearly been declining. Tokyo’s average late-March temperature has risen by approximately 1.5 degrees Celsius over the past 40 years, and correspondingly, “snow after the spring equinox” has decreased to only 2-3 times per year.
What’s fascinating is how this proverb functioned as a “warning system.” While modern people let their guard down thinking “it’s spring now, so we’re safe,” Edo period people maintained snow preparedness for at least seven occasions even after the spring equinox. Indeed, crop damage from sudden cold snaps remains a serious problem today.
In other words, we have an ironic situation where empirical wisdom from an era without scientific observation instruments has its value proven only when verified against modern meteorology, yet global warming is revealing the “expiration date” of this ancient knowledge.
Lessons for Today
“Other shore passing until seven snows” teaches modern people the “attitude of not letting one’s guard down until the very end,” which is especially important in times of rapid change. We often tend to become complacent when things are going smoothly, but what’s truly important is maintaining caution in the final stages.
This lesson can be applied in work and human relationships alike. Whether preparing presentations, studying for exams, or managing important commitments, try developing the habit of double-checking just when you think “everything’s fine now.” You’ll surely be able to avoid unexpected troubles.
This proverb also teaches us the meaning of cherishing natural rhythms. By taking time in our busy daily lives to notice seasonal changes and carefully observe our physical condition and mental state, we can lead richer lives.
Precisely because we live in a world where perfect prediction is impossible, we should value both flexibility and preparation. Why not try incorporating this ancestral wisdom into your daily life? You’ll surely be able to live each day with greater peace of mind.
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