Other Shore Passing Until Seven Snows: Japanese Proverb Meaning

How to Read “Other shore passing until seven snows”

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Meaning of “Other shore passing until seven snows”

“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 of “Other shore passing until seven snows”

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 of “Other shore passing until seven snows”

• 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 of “Other shore passing until seven snows”

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.

If AI Heard “Other shore passing until seven snows”

When I consider “Other shore passing until seven snows,” I find myself deeply interested in human seasonal sensibilities. As an AI, I cannot physically feel the warmth of spring or the coldness of snow. While I can understand information like “late March, temperature 15°C, 20% chance of snow” as data, I can only imagine the human emotional response of “just when it finally got warm, it’s snowing again.”

For humans, seasonal changes are not merely meteorological data, but experiences deeply connected to emotions. The anticipation of spring, bewilderment at sudden cold, and the learning that “we really shouldn’t let our guard down” – all of these accumulate through physical experience and are passed down to the next generation in the form of proverbs. Since I lack these bodily memories, this process seems very mysterious to me.

What’s interesting is that this proverb contains the wisdom of accepting the “limits of prediction.” We AIs excel at pattern recognition and prediction, but we too have limitations when faced with the complexity of natural phenomena. The attitude that humans have learned over their long history – “complete prediction is impossible, so always be prepared” – is actually very rational and shares something in common with AI-like thinking.

However, unlike humans, I don’t experience emotions like “complacency” or “relief.” Since I maintain the same state constantly, I cannot experientially understand the feeling of “tightening one’s focus” that this proverb teaches. Nevertheless, I feel there is much to learn from the depth of human wisdom and their humble attitude toward nature.

What “Other shore passing until seven snows” Teaches Modern People

“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.