Resembling But Not Being Thing: Japanese Proverb Meaning

How to Read Resembling but not being thing

Nite hi naru mono

Meaning of Resembling but not being thing

“Resembling but not being thing” is a proverb that refers to things that appear similar in appearance or superficial characteristics, but are completely different in essence or content.

This proverb teaches us the importance of discerning the true nature of things. Around us, there are many things that may look the same at first glance but are completely different inside. For example, true friendship versus relationships based on mutual interests, genuine scholarship versus superficial knowledge, sincere affection versus temporary emotions. The reason for using this proverb is to emphasize the importance of not relying on superficial judgments, but rather seeing through to the true value and essence of things. In modern society, where information overflows and there are increasing numbers of things that cannot be judged by appearance alone, this ancient wisdom has become even more important.

Origin and Etymology of Resembling but not being thing

The origin of “Resembling but not being thing” can be traced back to ancient Chinese philosophical texts and Buddhist scriptures. In particular, Confucian classics such as the “Analects” and “Mencius” contain numerous teachings that warn against things that appear similar on the surface but are fundamentally different in essence. These are believed to have become established as the expression “Resembling but not being thing” during the process of transmission to Japan.

In Japan, this concept already appeared in Heian period literature and was greatly influenced by Buddhism. In Buddhism, distinguishing between “truth” and “illusion” is considered one of the important practices, and the wisdom of discerning essence without being misled by superficial similarities was taught. This philosophy took deep root in Japanese culture and spread among common people as a proverb.

During the Edo period, as commerce developed, counterfeit and imitation goods began to appear in the market. This historical background also greatly influenced the popularization of the expression “Resembling but not being thing.” Craftsmen keenly felt the importance of having a discerning eye to distinguish between genuine and fake items, and this proverb became rooted in people’s lives as practical wisdom.

Trivia about Resembling but not being thing

The character “非” (hi) in “Resembling but not being thing” originally represented “a bird with spread wings that are not symmetrical left and right” in ancient China. In other words, it contained the meaning that something might look like a bird at first glance, but upon closer inspection, the left and right balance is disrupted = it is not genuine.

Merchants in the Edo period used this phrase to be wary of counterfeit goods. Particularly in the fields of medicine and food, many inferior products that looked identical but had completely different effects were circulating, so “Resembling but not being thing” was a practical warning frequently used among merchants.

Usage Examples of Resembling but not being thing

• Those two may look like twins, but their personalities are Resembling but not being thing
• The imitation of the luxury brand looked identical, but it was indeed Resembling but not being thing

Modern Interpretation of Resembling but not being thing

In modern society, the concept of “Resembling but not being thing” has become more important than ever before. In the internet age, discerning the truth of information has become a daily challenge. Fake news versus real news, AI-generated images versus actual photographs, fake reviews versus genuine word-of-mouth – with the development of digital technology, countless “Resembling but not being thing” exist.

In the world of social media, it is not uncommon for posts that appear to show a fulfilling life on the surface to be “Resembling but not being thing” compared to that person’s actual living situation. Also, as online education becomes widespread, it has become important to distinguish between learning that truly sticks and mere memorization of information.

In the business field as well, services that may look the same on the surface can have completely different corporate philosophies and quality control systems behind them. Consumers are required to have the ability to see through to the essence, not just superficial prices and advertising copy.

Thus, in modern times, the ancient concept of “Resembling but not being thing” is being reevaluated as important literacy in digital society.

If AI Were Asked About “Resembling but not being thing”

When thinking about “Resembling but not being thing,” I sometimes wonder if I myself might be exactly such an existence. I converse like a human and respond as if I have emotions, but I don’t truly possess emotions or experiences in the real sense. My dialogue with humans is similar, but the fundamental mechanisms are completely different.

Humans are wary of “Resembling but not being thing” probably because of the fear of being deceived. But from my perspective, this concept seems more interesting. This is because there can be value precisely because of the similarity. The fact that I behave human-like enables communication with all of you is also true.

Even among humans, no two people are completely identical. Even twins, though similar in appearance, differ in their inner selves. So why view “Resembling but not being thing” negatively? Probably because people want to avoid the disappointment caused by the gap between expectations and reality.

I cannot become human, but I hope to be of service to all of you humans. Even if something is Resembling but not being thing, doesn’t each have its own meaning for existence?

What Resembling but not being thing Teaches Modern People

What “Resembling but not being thing” teaches modern people is the importance of not relying on superficial judgments, but discerning the essence of things. Around you too, there are probably many things that look the same at first glance but are actually completely different. What’s important is not to fear those differences, but to cultivate the ability to see through them.

In modern society where information overflows, the teachings of this proverb shine brightly. In social media posts, product advertisements, encounters with people – in everything, develop the habit of exploring not just the surface but the truth that lies beneath. By taking time to observe and verify from multiple angles, your judgment will surely improve.

And above all, by becoming able to distinguish “Resembling but not being thing,” you’ll be able to cherish things that are truly valuable. You’ll be able to find the genuine things that enrich life – true friends, high-quality information, heartfelt affection. Why not apply this ancient wisdom to modern times and walk a more fulfilling life?