The Chronological Journey of the Three Wise Monkeys- Unveiling the Order of Their legendary Pilgrimage
What order do the three wise monkeys go in? This is a question that has intrigued many people, especially those who are familiar with the Japanese proverb that the three monkeys embody. The three wise monkeys, known as Mizaru, Kikazaru, and Iwazaru, are symbolic creatures representing the virtues of seeing no evil, hearing no evil, and speaking no evil. The order in which these monkeys appear has been a subject of debate, with various interpretations and cultural nuances influencing the sequence. Let’s delve into the origins and significance of this enigmatic order.
The three wise monkeys are believed to have originated from a Japanese proverb that dates back to the Heian period (794-1185). The story goes that these monkeys were the guardians of the Buddha’s teachings, and their actions represented the moral values that one should uphold. The monkeys are depicted with their ears, eyes, and mouth covered, symbolizing their adherence to the virtues of seeing no evil, hearing no evil, and speaking no evil.
In the traditional order, Mizaru is often depicted as the first monkey, with his eyes covered, signifying that he sees no evil. Kikazaru, the second monkey, has his ears covered, indicating that he hears no evil. Lastly, Iwazaru, the third monkey, has his mouth covered, representing his commitment to speaking no evil. This sequence is widely recognized and followed in many Japanese cultural contexts.
However, there have been instances where the order of the three wise monkeys has been altered, leading to confusion and debate. One such variation sees Iwazaru as the first monkey, followed by Kikazaru, and then Mizaru. This variation is believed to have originated from a Japanese painting by Utagawa Kuniyoshi, who depicted the monkeys in a different order to convey a different message.
The reason behind the variations in the order of the three wise monkeys lies in the interpretation of the proverb and the cultural context in which it is applied. In some cases, the order may be reversed to emphasize a particular virtue or to convey a specific moral lesson. For example, in certain versions of the story, Iwazaru is portrayed as the first monkey to highlight the importance of silence and not speaking ill of others.
Moreover, the order of the three wise monkeys can also be influenced by regional customs and artistic representations. In some areas, the monkeys may be depicted in a different order, reflecting the local values and beliefs. This diversity in representation adds to the richness of the story and the enduring appeal of the three wise monkeys.
In conclusion, the order in which the three wise monkeys go in has been a subject of intrigue and debate. While the traditional order of Mizaru, Kikazaru, and Iwazaru is widely recognized, variations in the sequence have emerged over time. The variations in the order are influenced by cultural interpretations, artistic representations, and regional customs. Regardless of the order, the three wise monkeys continue to serve as a powerful symbol of the virtues of seeing no evil, hearing no evil, and speaking no evil, reminding us of the importance of upholding moral values in our daily lives.
