Ladies and Gentlemen, Introducing the Hare...

As we are in the midst of the Easter holidays, it is inevitable - the main character of today’s article will be the figure of the hare.

Who is this hare? In Polish culture, we recognize it as an animal inherently linked with Easter, representing new life, fertility, and the rebirth of spring. It stars in children’s tales and folk beliefs, often portrayed with a basket brimming with colorful eggs. In this tradition, the hare brings a promise of renewal, heralding the brightest period of the year when the world awakens from its winter slumber.

And how is the hare portrayed on the other side of the globe, in the islands of the Land of the Cherry Blossoms? Here, it is no longer the harbinger of spring; in Japan, the hare assumes a mythological figure that spans a broad spectrum of roles – most commonly adopting one of the variants of the archetype of the 'cunning trickster'. In Japanese legends, it emerges as a story's hero, often delivering moral lessons. Just like in the tale of the Hare of Inaba, where its shrewdness and attempts at deception lead to unforeseen consequences. In Japanese folklore and art, the hare is frequently depicted as toiling with a mortar on the Moon, where - as tradition proclaims - it pounds the extract for the elixir of immortality. As time passes, contemporary pop culture continually reinterprets and reshapes its image, bestowing it in manga, anime, and video games, where the hare serves as an ally, spiritual guide, or playful trickster, all the while maintaining its mythological aura.

The Japanese Hare – What Is It Like?

The hare in Japan is a symbol that carries a significantly different resonance from what our European culture has accustomed us to. It is not an embodiment of spring rebirth but rather exemplifies a certain human archetype or attitude.

One of the oldest and most influential myths involving the hare is the legend of the Hare of Inaba, originating from the eighth century CE, inscribed in the 'Kojiki' – the oldest chronicle of Japan (you can read about Kojiki here: Kojiki & Nihon Shoki: Ancient Tales in Contemporary Echoes). We will delve further into this story later; for now, let us just note that the hare is personified here as the embodiment of the trickster's stance, who, unfortunately, 'got the worst of it' in his deceit and suffers the consequences, although even then he does not lose his lively intelligence and wit.

Another significant aspect of Japanese tradition featuring the hare prominently is the interpretation of patterns on the Moon’s surface. Surely, you have come across the motif pervading many works of European culture, discerning a human face on the Moon’s surface. Unlike the Western narratives of the 'man on the Moon', the Japanese perceive a hare making mochi - traditional Japanese rice cakes. This story is imbued with rich meanings, associated with Tsukimi, or the Moon-viewing festival, symbolizing both fertility and abundance.

The hare in Shinto tradition is also often connected with wealth and good fortune. Numerous Shinto shrines and home altars are adorned with hare figurines serving as amulets for luck and prosperity. These are those ubiquitous figurines of the smiling hare with a beckoning hand – a symbol of wealth.

Finally, in art - the hare is a popular motif that surfaces in paintings, ukiyo-e stories, ornamentations on dishes and clothing, sculptures, etc. As an artistic theme, it boasts a long history in Japanese art. Artistic depictions of the hare often explore and express its complex significances, from spiritual and physical agility to its association with the natural world and life's cycle.

The Legend of the Hare of Inaba

A long time ago...

A long time ago, in the picturesque province of Inaba (which, thousands of years later, becomes the setting for the game Persona 4), sprawling along the western coast of Japan’s main island, Honshu, a tale began that has gone down in history. This locale, renowned for its verdant landscapes and tranquil living, became the backdrop for remarkable events concerning a hare that transcended the bounds of possibility to find its fate.

Our protagonist, once an ordinary hare, aspired to cross the sea to reach a land teeming with lush grasses and sweet roots. But how could he achieve such a daring feat when the sea waves were so turbulent and the distance so vast?

Hares are known for their wit, so he devised a plan to convince a school of sharks that he could assist them in tallying their numbers, as they were unaware of how numerous they were. He promised to arrange them in a straight line from one island's shore to the other, claiming that in this way, he could determine if the sharks outnumbered other sea creatures. Intrigued by the outcome, the sharks acquiesced to the proposition and aligned themselves in a lengthy queue. The hare, content with the acquired gratis maritime transport, hopping from their backs one to another, disregarding the peril looming over him, embarked towards the longed-for new land.

A Grim Twist...

However, when he reached the last shark, the hare, proud of his cunning, announced with satisfaction that his clever plan had succeeded – he had used the herd of sharks merely as a bridge to cross the sea. Fury and a sense of betrayal stirred the depths as the sharks realized they had been deceived. In an act of revenge, the last shark, burned by rage for this brazen deceit, hurled the hare back into the harsh waves, where no vengeance awaited him. Without mercy or sympathy, the deceitfully tricked sharks gathered around the defenseless hare and punished him by stripping off his skin. Then they threw him into the salty water to inflict even more severe pain.

Emerging onto the shore, the hare, weakened and trembling with pain, discovered that his once dense and soft fur was gone, and the sea salt only worsened matters, embedding itself in his open wounds. He lay there, on the golden sand, under the scorching sun, dreaming of relief that seemed as distant as the far-off lands he had longed for so recently. At that very moment, in a desperate and hopeless position, the hare realized that his cunning, though a good weapon to use on others, ultimately brought him torment and death.

Suffering and Help...

The hare, now sick, powerless, and in pain, found refuge on the coast of Inaba. His suffering was great, yet hope for help had not died, as the days in agony dragged on one after another. One evening, a procession of gods appeared on the horizon, among them Ōkuninushi, then still a human, though on the path to divine destiny.

The procession stopped to look at the hare, crying out for help. As a deceiver, the hare did not evoke sympathy, but rather taunts and malice. The other gods advised the hare to heal by bathing in salt water and drying in the sun. Only Ōkuninushi, with more compassion, gave him the right advice. He suggested that the hare first rinse in sweet, fresh water, then roll in fluffy pollen from the grass, which was supposed to accelerate the healing of his wounds. The hare followed Ōkuninushi's advice, and soon his skin began to regenerate, and his fur to regrow, bringing relief from suffering.

Out of gratitude for the salvation, the hare prophesied to Ōkuninushi that he would meet a beautiful princess and become a great ruler. This prophecy soon came true, as Ōkuninushi not only won the love of the beautiful Yakami from Inaba but also divine power, becoming one of the most important gods in Japanese mythology.

Moral and Conclusions...

The meeting with the hare is a pivotal moment not only for the hare, who found relief in his suffering but also for Ōkuninushi himself. This event marks a turning point in his life, showing his compassion and ability to help others, which ultimately contributes to his elevation to a higher, divine level. The help he offers the hare is an act of mercy that weighed on what Ōkuninushi would embody (compassion and mercy) transforming into a kami (deity).

Thus, on the golden sands of Inaba, unfolds an eternal tale of betrayal and redemption, cunning that turns against its creator, and compassion that leads to transformation. The hare, who thought his cunning was his greatest asset, discovers that true strength lies in humility and the ability to admit mistakes. Ōkuninushi, initially just an observer, becomes the unexpected hero of this story, learning that acts of kindness can shape not only the destinies of others but also his own destiny, sculpting it into a figure worthy of legend.

The moral of this tale reminds us that every action has its consequences, which often can be far from intended, and true greatness lies not in cunning but in the ability to be kind and merciful towards those in need. The story of the hare from Inaba and Ōkuninushi is a reminder that even the most unlikely encounters can lead to unexpected but magnificent transformations, painting a picture of a world where empathy and kindness are the most precious treasures.

The Image and Symbolism of the Hare in Japan

The hare occupies a place full of symbolism and deep meanings in Japanese culture and mythology, reflecting traits such as cunning, wisdom, and survival. Beyond the famous legend of the Hare of Inaba, there are other stories where the hare plays a central role, conveying important values and lessons.

The Hare and the Moon

One of the most characteristic motifs with the hare is its connection to the Moon. In Japanese mythology, the hare is often depicted as sitting on the Moon, where it pounds mochi (traditional Japanese rice cakes), a common sight in Japanese folk art. This story, or rather image, carries with it the idea of continual work and perseverance, but also connectivity with nature and the cycle of life. The hare on the Moon is also a symbol of renewal and immortality.

The Hare and Protection Against Evil Spirits

In some regions of Japan, the hare is also seen as a guardian, defending against evil spirits and bad luck. Hare figurines or talismans (御守り - omamori) are often found in homes as amulets providing protection and bringing good fortune. This transformation of the hare into a symbol of protection and prosperity reflects Shinto and Buddhist practices, which attribute special power to objects and animals. The hare, considered a messenger of the god Inari, the guardian of agriculture and fertility, has become an object of worship in many temples and shrines, where believers offer prayers and gifts in hope of receiving blessings.

The Hare and Reflections on Human Nature

In many Japanese folk tales, the hare is a character that uses its wits to overcome adversities, often positioning itself against stronger opponents. These stories not only entertain but also teach, emphasizing the value of intelligence and cunning in the face of challenges. At the same time, the hare as a symbol can serve as a caution against excessive cunning and deceit, showing the consequences that such actions can bring.

The Hare as a Spiritual Guide

In some aspects of Japanese culture, the hare is seen as a spiritual guide that helps people find their way in life or cross the boundaries of the material and spiritual worlds. This role of the hare is particularly visible in art and literature, where its figure often symbolizes the pursuit of wisdom and spiritual enlightenment. An example is the ukiyo-e series "Tsukioka Yoshitoshi's One Hundred Aspects of the Moon," where the hare is depicted in a spiritual context, serving as a bridge connecting people with the mystical world of the moon and its secrets.

The Hare in Ceremonies and Festivals

The hare also plays a significant role in Japanese ceremonies and festivals, especially those related to Moon viewing celebrations such as Tsukimi, the moon-viewing festival. During Tsukimi, traditional decorations and offerings often include images of the hare, intended to bring health and happiness to the home. These practices underscore the cultural fascination with the connection between the hare and the Moon, recognizing it as a symbol of abundance and prosperity. Hare figures made of grass or depictions of hares on dango (traditional Japanese sweet rice balls) are popular during this festival, connecting people with nature and tradition through culinary art and decorations.

Not to Confuse the Hare with the Hare

The motif of the hare, like other motifs common to both European and Japanese cultures, can be confusing. Accustomed to the Western symbolism of these motifs in everyday life, we tend to unconsciously transfer this symbolism even when viewing Japanese cultural works, such as manga or anime. This can be a mistake (not always, since some anime is purely for export, but that's another topic). There are no universal motifs – what we see on one side of the globe may look completely different on the other. To understand and appreciate the depth of a given culture, one cannot enter it with a head full of foreign interpretations.

It is always worthwhile to learn the Japanese version of a given motif (as we do today with hares) so as to be able to understand and feel the work we have come to admire, which comes from a completely different culture. Therefore, often, after discussing the Japanese version of a cultural element, I bring up examples from pop culture where this motif occurs. So that the reader can independently assess whether the work must be partially reevaluated in light of the newly acquired knowledge or not. So, where do we see hares in anime or Japanese video games?

"Naruto" (Masashi Kishimoto, 1999)

In the world of "Naruto," Kaguya Ōtsutsuki, known as the "Rabbit Goddess," is one of the main antagonists in the later phase of the series. Her ability to manipulate dimensions and possess powerful powers, combined with her visual motif related to the hare, make her a fascinating character. Kaguya, being a central figure in the series' mythology, brings elements related to Japanese legends about the hare, especially in the context of her powers and mysterious nature.

"Sailor Moon" (Naoko Takeuchi, 1992)

The popular manga and anime series about a group of girls who can transform into warriors fighting evil with the power of the Moon. The main character, Usagi Tsukino, whose name is a linguistic joke that can be translated as "Moon Rabbit" (usagi – rabbit, Tsuki – Moon, no - of), is symbolically linked to the hare and is an obvious reference to the Japanese legend of the hare on the Moon.

"My Hero Academia" (Kōhei Horikoshi, 2014)

This dynamic anime and manga present a world where nearly everyone possesses superpowers called "quirks." Among many colorful characters, Mirko, or Rumi Usagiyama, also known as Rabbit Hero Mirko, stands out. She is a heroine whose physical features and powers are inspired by the hare, making her exceptionally strong and agile. Her distinctive hare-like ears and combat abilities, reflecting the strength and speed of these animals, make Mirko one of the most recognizable and beloved characters in the series.

"Ōkami" (Clover Studio, 2006)

An action-adventure game where players embody Amaterasu, a sun deity represented as a white wolf. The game features other animals, including hares, which serve various functions, from spiritual guides to elements aiding in puzzle-solving. The symbolism associated with the hare in "Ōkami" combines traditional Shinto beliefs with interactive gameplay elements, highlighting the character's connection with nature and the spiritual world.

"Moon: Remix RPG Adventure" (Love-de-Lic, 1997)

An innovative RPG game that reverses traditional roles, encouraging the player to discover the truth about "heroes" and "monsters." Hares in "Moon" play various roles, from landscape elements and potential friends to key characters in quests. Their presence in the game is thoughtful and full of surprises, allowing for a new appreciation of their role in Japanese culture as symbols of happiness and spiritual guidance.

"Final Fantasy XII" (Square Enix, 2006)

A game set in the fantastical world of Ivalice, where players meet the Viera, a rabbit-like race that combines human and hare characteristics. These elegant, tall characters with long ears are known for their agility and close connection with nature, making them unique inhabitants of Ivalice. Viera symbolizes harmony with the environment, dexterity in combat, and mystique, emphasizing the spiritual and physical agility associated with the hare.

"Dragon Ball" (Akira Toriyama, 1984)

Early episodes of "Dragon Ball" feature a character named Monster Carrot, the leader of the "Rabbit Mob" gang. Monster Carrot has the ability to turn people he touches into carrots. His appearance, with distinct hare features, including ears and teeth, and his role as an antagonist for Goku and his friends, introduce elements of comedy and tension to the series. This character is a humorous, though threatening, reminder of the cunning and inventiveness associated with the hare in folklore.

Conclusion

The Japanese hare is not only pounding mochi on the Moon but is also considered a guide for souls in the afterlife, which significantly differs from the image of the Easter bunny, known in Europe as a symbol of fertility and new beginnings. Additionally, the hare in Japan is often associated with longevity and luck, which may surprise, considering its symbolism, quite different in the West. It is also often the archetype of the trickster, who, with his intelligence, gets out of trouble or tries to outsmart others. Sometimes these deceptions harm him, sometimes they pay off – depending on the version of the legend.

In Japanese culture, the hare often serves as a bridge between worlds, with the ability to cross the boundaries of reality. It is a character that can lead to enlightenment as well as warn against excessive cunning, maintaining a balance between wisdom and the temptation of manipulation.

It is interesting that the hare in Japanese symbolism, unlike the Easter bunny, is more akin to the hare from British literature: in Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland," the White Rabbit serves a similar function to the hare in Japanese culture – becoming a guide who leads Alice to a different reality. This character, with a pocket watch and a perpetual sense of being late, leads Alice through a rabbit hole into a world full of paradoxes and absurdities, different from our everyday reality. The similarity in the role of the hare as a "guide between worlds" in both cultures may stem from a universal symbolism associated with this animal – as a creature quick, cunning, and capable of discovering hidden paths. In both cases, the hare is a symbol of transformation and passage, inviting exploration of unknown or different levels of reality, suggesting a deeply rooted image of the hare as a guide and explorer in the human psyche.

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Kojiki & Nihon Shoki: Ancient Tales in Contemporary Echoes

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"Strong Japanese Women"

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    未開    ソビエライ

 An enthusiast of Asian culture with a deep appreciation for the diverse philosophies of the world. By education, a psychologist and philologist specializing in Korean studies. At heart, a programmer (primarily for Android) and a passionate technology enthusiast, as well as a practitioner of Zen and mono no aware. In moments of tranquility, adheres to a disciplined lifestyle, firmly believing that perseverance, continuous personal growth, and dedication to one's passions are the wisest paths in life. Author of the book "Strong Women of Japan" (>>see more)

Personal motto:

"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest." - Albert Einstein (probably)

  Mike Soray

   (aka Michał Sobieraj)

未開    ソビエライ

 An enthusiast of Asian culture with a deep appreciation for the diverse philosophies of the world. By education, a psychologist and philologist specializing in Korean studies. At heart, a programmer (primarily for Android) and a passionate technology enthusiast, as well as a practitioner of Zen and mono no aware. In moments of tranquility, adheres to a disciplined lifestyle, firmly believing that perseverance, continuous personal growth, and dedication to one's passions are the wisest paths in life. Author of the book "Strong Women of Japan" (>>see more)

Personal motto:

"The most powerful force in the universe is compound interest." - Albert Einstein (probably)

Mike Soray

(aka Michał Sobieraj)

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