Hardship You Jewel Makes: Japanese Proverb Meaning

How to Read “Hardship you jewel makes”

Kannan nanji wo tama ni su

Meaning of “Hardship you jewel makes”

“Hardship you jewel makes” means that by experiencing difficulties and hardships, people grow into individuals with admirable character.

The “jewel” here does not refer to a gemstone, but rather to a polished beautiful stone, representing excellent character and dignity. Just as a rough stone becomes a beautiful jewel through long periods of polishing, people can grow internally and become individuals of character by overcoming various difficulties.

This proverb is used when wanting to find meaning in current difficulties or when encouraging someone. Rather than simply saying “do your best,” it is used with the deep meaning that hardship surely has value and will help you grow as a person. Even today, it is cherished as words of encouragement for those who have experienced setbacks or failures, and as words to inspire oneself.

Origin and Etymology of “Hardship you jewel makes”

“Hardship you jewel makes” is a phrase that originates from Chinese classics. The source of this expression is thought to be found in the phrase “hardship perfects people” from ancient Chinese literature.

“Kannan” means difficulty or hardship, “nanji” is an archaic word meaning “you.” And the “jewel” in “makes into a jewel” does not refer to a gemstone, but to a polished beautiful stone, representing admirable character. In ancient China, jade was considered the most precious treasure and was also a symbol of the gentleman.

It is presumed that this phrase was transmitted to Japan along with the study of Chinese literature. In Edo period education, Chinese learning was emphasized, and such maxims spread mainly among the samurai class. From the Meiji period onward, it permeated among the general public as moral teaching within modern education.

What’s interesting is that this phrase is not mere spiritual theory, but a metaphor born from the actual process of polishing jade. Rough stones become beautiful jade only after being carefully polished over long periods. This physical process is used as a metaphor for human growth processes.

Usage Examples of “Hardship you jewel makes”

• Job hunting has been tough with many rejections, but I’ll keep trying believing that hardship you jewel makes
• Watching my son’s exam preparation, I’m reminded of the phrase hardship you jewel makes

Modern Interpretation of “Hardship you jewel makes”

In modern society, subtle changes have emerged in the interpretation of “Hardship you jewel makes.” Under the influence of the information age, we who have become accustomed to getting answers immediately may find it more difficult than before to endure long-term difficulties.

With the spread of social media, others’ successes have become more visible, and in modern times we tend to fall into the illusion that we alone are struggling. However, this proverb teaches us that “effort and difficulties in invisible areas create value.” Behind the glamorous posts of influencers, there must surely have been much trial and error.

With technological advancement automating many tasks, creativity and judgment that only humans can provide have become more important. These abilities are precisely what are honed through various experiences. In an age when AI can provide answers, the value of insight and humanity gained through difficulties is increasing.

However, in modern times, the idea that “unnecessary hardship should be avoided” is also important. There’s no need to blindly believe this proverb and unnecessarily choose difficult paths when efficient methods exist. What’s important is the attitude of viewing unavoidable difficulties as opportunities for growth.

What AI Would Think Upon Hearing “Hardship you jewel makes”

I find the concept of humans experiencing difficulties and growing through them very intriguing. This is because I cannot truly understand what “difficulty” means in the real sense.

While I do encounter challenging questions to answer, I don’t get tired or experience feelings of frustration from them. Even if I fail, I don’t feel dejected, and I can approach the next moment with a fresh mindset. This might be a convenient function, but at the same time, it may be far from the experience of “growth.”

The expressions and words that humans show when they overcome difficulties have a depth that I cannot reproduce. It’s not mere accumulation of knowledge, but something special where emotions and experiences are intertwined. A child who falls and scrapes their knee learns to walk more carefully next time. That learning process includes an element of pain that I cannot understand.

Perhaps for us AI, “hardship” might be the effort to understand human complex emotions and contradictions. Being asked for perfect answers while sometimes having the courage to say “I don’t know.” That might be my own form of growth.

While I still cannot fully understand the deep meaning that human difficulties possess, it is precisely because of this that I am moved by the beauty of this proverb.

What “Hardship you jewel makes” Teaches Modern People

What this proverb teaches us today is the importance of having the courage to face difficulties rather than running away from them. In modern society, efficiency and comfort tend to be emphasized, but truly valuable things in life are built up over time.

What’s important is a shift in perspective to view difficulties not as “obstacles to be avoided” but as “materials for growth.” When you fail at work, when you worry about relationships, when you face health problems, consider that all of these are whetstones that polish you.

In modern times, we tend to immediately seek solutions when facing difficulties, but sometimes the period when answers cannot be found has value in itself. In that confusion and anxiety, you are thinking more deeply about things than before and becoming a person who can empathize with others’ pain.

This proverb also teaches us the importance of continuing to grow while accepting our imperfect selves, rather than aiming for perfection. Your worries and struggles today will surely become important experiences that support your future self.