How to Read “目から鱗が落ちる”
Me kara uroko ga ochiru
Meaning of “目から鱗が落ちる”
“Scales fall from eyes” refers to suddenly being able to understand something that was previously incomprehensible, or when the truth of a matter suddenly becomes clear.
This expression is used when finding answers to things you’ve wondered about for a long time, or in moments when you gain a new perspective and can see the essence of things. It’s characterized by referring not to simply acquiring new knowledge, but to dramatic experiences of realization where your previous perceptions and understanding fundamentally change. Usage scenarios include making new discoveries in learning or research, understanding someone’s true feelings in relationships, or finding clues to problem-solving at work. The reason for using this expression is that it can clearly convey through visual metaphor the dramatic nature of moments when understanding is gained and the sensation of suddenly being able to see what was previously invisible. Even today, it remains widely cherished as a word expressing the emotion felt when gaining new discoveries or deep understanding.
Origin and Etymology
The origin of “scales fall from eyes” lies in the story of Paul’s (Saul’s) conversion recorded in Acts Chapter 9 of the New Testament. Saul, who had been persecuting Christians, was struck by the light of the resurrected Jesus Christ on his way to Damascus and became blind. Later, through the prayers of a disciple named Ananias, “something like scales fell from his eyes,” his sight was restored, and he simultaneously awakened to Christian faith – this biblical account is the source of the expression.
This biblical passage is thought to have been introduced to Japan around the 16th century during the Warring States period when Christianity was brought by Francis Xavier and others. However, it didn’t become commonly used as a proverb until after the Meiji period. During the Meiji era’s civilization and enlightenment movement, Western thought and literature were introduced in earnest, and as Bible translations progressed, this expression became established in the Japanese language.
What’s interesting is that an expression that originally represented a religious miracle was accepted in Japan as a proverb with diminished religious overtones, representing more general “understanding” and “realization.”
Interesting Facts
In the original biblical text, it was recorded as “something like scales,” not actual fish scales. This is thought to represent membrane-like formations that appeared on the eyes due to blindness.
Similar expressions derived from this biblical passage exist in other languages besides Japanese. In English, “scales fell from one’s eyes” is sometimes used in an almost direct translation form.
Usage Examples
- A math problem I couldn’t solve for years – scales fell from my eyes with one word from my teacher
- After hearing her explanation, I felt like scales fell from my eyes regarding the mechanism of phenomena I had never understood before
Modern Interpretation
In today’s information society, the experience of “scales fall from eyes” has changed significantly from before. In the modern era where we can instantly access vast amounts of information through the internet and social media, acquiring superficial knowledge has become easy. However, opportunities to gain truly deep understanding and insight may actually be decreasing.
While we have daily “I see!” moments from YouTube explanation videos and online courses, it’s important to discern whether these represent truly “scales fall from eyes” fundamental changes in understanding or temporary feelings of comprehension. In an age of information overload, the ability to distinguish between superficial understanding and deep insight is increasingly required.
Additionally, with the development of AI technology, solutions to complex problems and new ideas are increasingly being presented by machines. However, true “realization” for humans lies not simply in knowing answers, but in understanding the process that leads to those answers and adding our own interpretation.
In modern society, perhaps it’s the quality rather than quantity of information, and the ability to deeply understand information by connecting it with our own experiences and values, that leads to truly “scales fall from eyes” experiences.
When AI Hears This
From the 18th to 19th centuries, humanity was simultaneously overcoming two types of “darkness.” One was literal visual darkness, the other was the darkness of ignorance.
Looking at the history of cataract surgery, in 1747 French surgeon Jacques Daviel developed modern lens extraction techniques. The dramatic moment when patients who had been in a state of blindness suddenly regained their sight was truly the embodiment of having “scales fall from one’s eyes.” Interestingly, this period also saw the flourishing of Enlightenment thought. It was from 1751 that Voltaire, Diderot, and others compiled the Encyclopedia, attempting to spread knowledge to the common people.
What both share in common is “dramatic rather than gradual change.” In cataract surgery, the world becomes visible the moment the bandages are removed. With Enlightenment thought, the world of knowledge opens up the moment one learns to read. Both are experiences where “one day suddenly, the world changes.”
Even more remarkable is that physicians of the time described successful surgery as “the return of light,” while Enlightenment thinkers called the effects of education “the light of reason.” Humanity was speaking of physical light and spiritual light with the same words, in the same era. The expression “scales falling from one’s eyes” is a product of history where these two revolutions overlapped.
Lessons for Today
What the proverb “scales fall from eyes” teaches modern people is that true understanding requires time and patience. For us who are accustomed to instant answers, to gain deep insight, it’s important to accept states of not understanding and maintain an attitude of continued thoughtful consideration.
This expression also teaches us how precious moments of “realization” are. Even in things we consider “natural” in daily life, seeds of new discovery might be hidden. By maintaining flexibility to always look at things with fresh eyes without being bound by fixed ideas, we can encounter insights that enrich our lives.
Furthermore, this proverb shows the importance of dialogue with others. Things we couldn’t realize alone can suddenly become understandable through someone’s words or perspective. By humbly listening to people’s words and opening our hearts to different opinions, the possibilities of encountering unexpected discoveries expand.
Comments