How to Read “既往は咎めず”
Kiou wa togamezu
Meaning of “既往は咎めず”
“Past deeds are not blamed” means not blaming or bringing up past mistakes or failures.
This doesn’t simply mean “forgetting.” Even when there have been problems or conflicts in the past, it represents an attitude of not continuing to blame the other party by bringing up those issues, but instead trying to build a positive relationship. It is often used especially in situations where reconciliation or cooperation is needed, and it is wisdom that involves setting aside past grievances in order for both parties to aim for a constructive future.
The reason for using this proverb is that if we continue to be bound by past events, we cannot hope for new relationships or development. In business situations, this way of thinking is applied when repairing relationships with business partners with whom there was previous trouble, and in the home when couples or parents and children make up. Even in modern times, this spirit holds very important meaning in workplaces that emphasize teamwork and in societies that accept diverse values.
Origin and Etymology
“Past deeds are not blamed” is a phrase that originates from the ancient Chinese classic “The Analects.” It is based on teachings where Confucius spoke about politics and human relationships in this book that recorded dialogues between Confucius and his disciples.
“Past deeds” means “things that have already passed,” and “are not blamed” means “not criticized, not condemned.” The Spring and Autumn period of China when this phrase was born was a chaotic era of continuous warfare. In such circumstances, Confucius taught the importance of building constructive relationships toward the future rather than being bound by past mistakes.
It was introduced to Japan along with Buddhism and Confucianism from the Nara to Heian periods, and was accepted as an important life philosophy in warrior society as well. Particularly during the Warring States period, it was widely used as a fundamental way of thinking when opposing military commanders reconciled. In the Edo period, it spread among common people and became established as wisdom for business and neighborhood relations.
This proverb is not merely about preaching tolerance, but has taken root in the hearts of Japanese people for a long time as practical wisdom for building a better future.
Usage Examples
- My relationship with the department manager was strained, but let’s cooperate on the new project with the spirit of “Past deeds are not blamed”
- We had conflicts during the divorce mediation, but for the sake of the children, I must face my ex-husband with the attitude of “Past deeds are not blamed”
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, the spirit of “Past deeds are not blamed” has become more important than ever. Precisely because we live in an era where past statements and actions remain permanently through social media and digital records, the value of this way of thinking is being rerecognized.
In the information society, everyone faces the risk of having past gaffes or judgment errors dug up through searches. Not only politicians and celebrities, but ordinary people may suddenly find their student-era posts or photos from their youth receiving attention. As this “digital tattoo” problem becomes more serious, the need for a culture of mutual forgiveness is increasing.
On the other hand, in modern times, the concept of “accountability” is also emphasized, and there are increasing situations where simply “letting bygones be bygones” is not sufficient. Appropriate pursuit of responsibility is required for corporate scandals and misconduct by those in power. In other words, modern “Past deeds are not blamed” needs to be understood not as an unconditional pardon, but as wisdom for constructive relationship building based on reflection and improvement.
In the modern era of advancing globalization, collaboration with people from different cultural backgrounds has also become routine. This spirit demonstrates great power when overcoming past cultural misunderstandings and prejudices to build new relationships.
When AI Hears This
In today’s social media landscape, a “reset culture” has become the norm—deleting posts we don’t like, blocking unpleasant people, and erasing accounts that have been caught in controversy. However, “the past is not to be blamed” represents a completely opposite approach.
The defining characteristic of reset culture is the idea of “making it as if it never happened.” It attempts to completely erase failures and mistakes, returning to a blank slate. Examples include companies deleting their social media accounts after scandals, or individuals mass-deleting posts from their embarrassing past.
In contrast, this proverb expresses a unique sense of time: “the past is not erased, but it is also not used as grounds for blame.” It represents an attitude of trying to build positive relationships while leaving past facts intact.
What’s fascinating is that reset culture often fails to provide fundamental solutions. As the term “digital tattoo” suggests, information on the internet never completely disappears. Moreover, psychological research shows that people who accept their past are more mentally stable than those who try to deny it.
In other words, “the past is not to be blamed” is wisdom that gains value precisely because we live in the digital age. In an era where complete erasure is impossible, it teaches us how to build a future while coexisting with the past.
Lessons for Today
What “Past deeds are not blamed” teaches modern people is the courage to accept imperfect selves and others. Everyone makes mistakes and errors in judgment. What’s important is having the will to learn from those failures and build better relationships.
In modern society, when someone gets flamed on social media or makes mistakes at work, those records tend to remain permanently. However, if we continue to be bound by past mistakes, we cannot take on new challenges or grow. By having the courage to forgive your own past failures and move forward, you can show the same tolerance to those around you.
When you feel stuck in relationships with family, friends, or colleagues, remember these words. Rather than continuing to blame others for their past words and actions, why not look toward the possibility of building new relationships from this very moment? This is not indulgence, but the strength to believe in each other’s growth. By letting go of the past, your human relationships will surely become richer and warmer.
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