Red Traditional Daruma - Good Fortune, Small

“Daruma Daruma: I decide on a goal and I paint your first eye. Once l reach this goal, I will paint the other eye.”

The red Daruma is the most popular in Japan. It can be used for all kinds of goals.
The traditional version shows the kanji for luck on his chin.

Daruma, what is it?

Daruma, also called the Doll of Goals, is a Japanese good luck amulet. Handmade with papier-mâché, it is a representation of the monk Bodhidharma, the founder of zen Buddhism. According to the legend, he was enlightened after meditating alone for 9 years in a cave but his arms and legs eventually became atrophied and fell off. Hence the round shape of Daruma.

How to use Daruma

Decide on a goal and paint the first eye on the Daruma. When you reach your goal, paint the second eye as a sign of gratitude. By way of learning, write down how you fulfilled your aim; at that time, you will feel great satisfaction.

The spirit of Daruma

The Daruma doll reminds us that with determination and perseverance, we will achieve the purpose we chose. In that sense, it’s really important for us to choose a specific and feasible one. It is not a matter of buying a Daruma doll and wait for our wish to get fulfilled as if by magic: Daruma motivates us and gives us strength to work hard and do our best in order to be successful. Any occasion is good for the Japanese to make a gift of a doll, although there are some significant dates such as birthdays or the New Year.

Burning of Darumas

In Japan, the Daruma lasts for a year - whether you reach your goal or not - and every 18 January, thousands of used figurines are burnt in temples. In Europe, take advantage of Saint John's Day or your favourite holiday to perform this ritual. You can then choose other Darumas for your new goals.