The Enigmatic Tale of the Three Wise Monkeys- Unveiling the Hidden Stories Behind Their Symbolism
What is the story behind the three wise monkeys? The three wise monkeys, also known as the “Three Monkeys of Iwato,” are a trio of mythical creatures from Japanese folklore. These monkeys, known as Mizaru, Kikazaru, and Iwazaru, embody the virtues of seeing no evil, hearing no evil, and speaking no evil. Their story has been passed down through generations, serving as a moral lesson for people to live a virtuous life. Let’s delve into the fascinating origins and symbolism of these enigmatic creatures.
The tale of the three wise monkeys dates back to the Heian period (794-1185) in Japan. According to legend, there was once a great sage named Iwato, who was known for his wisdom and kindness. One day, Iwato encountered a group of monkeys while traveling through the forest. He noticed that these monkeys had a unique trait: they never engaged in any form of mischief or harm. Intrigued by their behavior, Iwato decided to follow them to learn more about their secret.
As Iwato observed the monkeys, he noticed that they had three distinct features: Mizaru, who covered his eyes to avoid seeing any evil; Kikazaru, who covered his ears to prevent hearing any evil; and Iwazaru, who covered his mouth to stop speaking any evil. These monkeys had become wise due to their self-discipline and adherence to these principles.
The story of the three wise monkeys has been immortalized in various forms of art, literature, and even in modern pop culture. The most famous representation of these monkeys is in the form of a bronze sculpture located in Ueno Zoo in Tokyo, Japan. The sculpture depicts the three monkeys with their respective features, symbolizing the importance of avoiding evil in all its forms.
The symbolism of the three wise monkeys is profound. Mizaru’s act of covering his eyes represents the importance of not allowing oneself to be influenced by negative or harmful sights. Kikazaru’s action of covering his ears signifies the need to avoid listening to harmful or deceitful words. Lastly, Iwazaru’s gesture of covering his mouth emphasizes the importance of refraining from speaking negatively or spreading lies.
In today’s world, the story of the three wise monkeys continues to resonate with people. It serves as a reminder that each individual has the power to make a positive impact on the world by choosing to see, hear, and speak only good. The monkeys’ wisdom transcends time and culture, making them a timeless symbol of moral integrity and self-discipline.
In conclusion, the story behind the three wise monkeys is a captivating tale that teaches us the importance of living a virtuous life. These mythical creatures, Mizaru, Kikazaru, and Iwazaru, embody the virtues of seeing no evil, hearing no evil, and speaking no evil. Their legacy continues to inspire people to strive for moral excellence and to contribute positively to the world around them.
