What Is a Maneki Neko?
The Maneki Neko, or “Lucky Cat”, is one of the most iconic figures of Japanese culture. Often seen in businesses as a symbol of luck and fortune, Maneki Nekos have been a part of Japan for centuries.
Maneki Nekos are usually depicted as a white cat with a paw raised in the air, gesturing for luck. This is a sign of the traditional “Beckoning Cat” wave, which is said to bring good fortune and luck. In Western cultures, a beckoning gesture would involve your palm being up and curling either your hand or just your index finger up repeatedly. In Japan, the gesture is done by putting your arm up, palm down, fingers pointed downward, and your hand waving in come hither manner.
Colors and Design of Maneki Neko
There are many differences in design and color of maneki neko cats. Each one has a different meaning.
A Maneki Neko with its left paw raised is said to bring good luck and customers to a business. On the other hand, a Maneki Neko with its right paw raised is said to bring in wealth and money. Other colors, such as black or gold, can also be seen and they signify different meanings. Black cats are said to protect against bad luck, while gold cats are thought to bring even more wealth and prosperity. There is also red for good health, green for family protection, blue for success at school, and pink for success in love.
History of Mankei Neko
According to legend, a poor monk lived in the Gōtoku-ji temple in Setagaya, Tokyo with his beloved bobtail cat in the seventeenth century. One day, Ii Naotaka of the Hikone Domain went hunting. He ended up taking shelter from a fierce storm outside the temple. As he stood there, he saw the monk’s pet with one paw raised, seemingly inviting him in. He followed the cat’s gesture, and shortly afterwards a bolt of lightning struck the tree he had been standing under. Touched by the cat’s actions, Naotaka became a patron of the temple and helped repair it. When the cat passed away, a statue of maneki-neko was made in its honor at the sacred temple. To this day it is believed that the beckoning cats bring good luck.
Since then, Maneki Nekos have been a central part of Japanese culture and have been used in many ways. They are still seen in many businesses, homes, and temples throughout Japan, bringing luck to those who have them. They have also been used in popular culture, appearing in movies, television shows, and even video games.
If you’d like some luck in your life then considering getting a maneki neko cat for yourself.
