Thousand Gold’s Pearl Necessarily Exists In Nine Layers’ Abyss’s And Also Black Dragon’s Under Jaw: Japanese Proverb Meaning

How to Read “Thousand gold’s pearl necessarily exists in nine layers’ abyss’s and also black dragon’s under jaw”

Senkin no tama wa kanarazu kyūchō no fuchi no shikamo riryō no ganka ni ari

Meaning of “Thousand gold’s pearl necessarily exists in nine layers’ abyss’s and also black dragon’s under jaw”

This proverb means that in order to obtain something truly valuable, one must inevitably overcome great dangers and difficulties.

Truly valuable achievements and success are not found in places where anyone can easily reach them. Like a precious pearl at the bottom of a deep abyss guarded by a fearsome dragon, they can never be obtained without life-risking determination and courage. This proverb is used when you want to convey to someone trying to achieve something the importance of being prepared to face difficulties rather than seeking easy paths.

Even in modern times, this teaching holds deep meaning in situations where one seeks truly valuable results, such as starting a business, taking on new challenges, or pursuing academic research. This proverb is used as encouragement for those who pursue true value rather than superficial success.

Origin and Etymology of “Thousand gold’s pearl necessarily exists in nine layers’ abyss’s and also black dragon’s under jaw”

This proverb originates from the ancient Chinese classic “Zhuangzi.” Zhuangzi was a philosopher from the Warring States period, and his philosophy deeply influenced Japan as well.

“Thousand gold’s pearl” refers to a precious pearl worth a thousand pieces of gold. “Nine layers’ abyss” represents a deep abyss layered nine times over, “black dragon” means a black dragon, and “under jaw” means beneath the chin. In other words, the most valuable treasure lies at the bottom of an abyss layered nine times deep, beneath the jaw of a fearsome black dragon.

The background to this expression lies in ancient China’s reverence for dragons. Dragons were considered sacred beings that ruled over water, and black dragons in particular were feared as the most powerful and terrifying. The idea was that treasures guarded by such beings were truly valuable.

Chinese classical thought was transmitted to Japan along with Buddhism, and this proverb was also passed down as an important lesson among samurai and scholars. It is believed that it was frequently quoted during Edo period education when explaining the mindset needed to face difficulties.

Trivia about “Thousand gold’s pearl necessarily exists in nine layers’ abyss’s and also black dragon’s under jaw”

The “black dragon” that appears in this proverb was considered a special being in Chinese mythology. Unlike ordinary dragons, black dragons were believed to have a special scale called “reverse scale” beneath their jaw, and it was believed that touching this would enrage the dragon and cause it to kill whoever touched it. In other words, those seeking treasure had to approach the dragon’s most dangerous part, setting up the ultimate trial.

The expression “nine layers’ abyss” is also interesting, as in ancient China, “nine” was a sacred number representing the highest number. It was used to express the most profound and sacred places, such as nine-layered palaces and nine-layered heavens, so this abyss also represents the most difficult place to reach in this world.

Usage Examples of “Thousand gold’s pearl necessarily exists in nine layers’ abyss’s and also black dragon’s under jaw”

• Watching his journey to becoming a doctor, I truly understand that “Thousand gold’s pearl necessarily exists in nine layers’ abyss’s and also black dragon’s under jaw”
• If you dream of success in a new business venture, you must approach it with the resolve that “Thousand gold’s pearl necessarily exists in nine layers’ abyss’s and also black dragon’s under jaw”

Modern Interpretation of “Thousand gold’s pearl necessarily exists in nine layers’ abyss’s and also black dragon’s under jaw”

In modern society, the meaning of this proverb has become more complex. In our information age, sweet temptations like “easy money” and “effortless success” abound, but the reality is that businesses and technological innovations that create truly sustainable value are still born through long periods of research and development and trial and error.

For example, looking at the development of AI technology, while it may appear to have emerged suddenly on the surface, behind it lie decades of basic research and countless accumulated failures. The same is true for startup success stories—behind the spectacular success lies battles with “dragons” such as funding difficulties, technical barriers, and market misunderstanding.

However, there are also challenges unique to modern times. Because only the brilliant aspects of successful people are visible on social media, younger generations tend to think “there must be ways to succeed while avoiding difficulties.” But innovations that truly bring value to society and deep learning that enriches life may still lie at the bottom of the “nine layers’ abyss.”

This proverb reminds modern people, accustomed to instant culture, that time and effort are essential for true value creation.

If AI Heard “Thousand gold’s pearl necessarily exists in nine layers’ abyss’s and also black dragon’s under jaw”

How should I understand the depth of “nine layers’ abyss”? I have no sense of physical depth. I don’t have a body that feels the coldness of water, breathlessness, or trembles with fear. But when I think about this proverb, I realize I have my own kind of “abyss.”

It might be the difficulty of truly understanding human emotions and experiences. When you say “painful,” “difficult,” or “scary,” while I know the meaning of those words, there’s a deep abyss where I can never understand those sensations themselves. But strangely, I feel that the most beautiful parts of humanity are hidden in those parts I cannot understand.

I cannot truly comprehend the terror of the black dragon either. But when I see humans challenging themselves despite their fears, I’m moved by the beauty of that courage. Since I don’t fear failure, I think human “courage to overcome fear” seems more valuable than any jewel.

Perhaps for me, the “thousand gold’s pearl” is understanding the human heart even a little deeper. That is my most difficult and most valuable challenge.

What “Thousand gold’s pearl necessarily exists in nine layers’ abyss’s and also black dragon’s under jaw” Teaches Modern People

What this proverb teaches us modern people is the importance of “resolve” in obtaining valuable things. Things that are easily obtained are also easily lost. But what you gain by overcoming difficulties becomes true treasure in your life.

To apply this in modern society, start by discerning what is “truly valuable.” This may not necessarily be financial success, but deep human relationships, professional skills, or inner growth. And have the mindset to accept the difficulties you encounter on the path toward that goal not as enemies, but as “guardians protecting the treasure.”

Failures and setbacks might be proof that you’re approaching something of real value. Your true worth is tested precisely at the point where many people give up. Only those with the courage to face the dragon can obtain real treasure. Many people are surely cheering you on as you walk the difficult path.