Translation and Meaning of: 籤引 - kujibiki

On this page, we will study the meaning of the Japanese word 籤引 (kujibiki) and its translation into English. Let's see their different meanings, example phrases, explanations, etymology and the similar words.

Romaji: kujibiki

Kana: くじびき

Type: noun

L: jlpt-n1

籤引

Translation / Meaning: lottery; drawn lot

Meaning in English: lottery;drawn lot

Definition: Guessing by drawing.

Sumário
- Etymology
- Vocabulary
- Writing
- Phrases

Explanation and Etymology - (籤引) kujibiki

The Japanese word for lottery is expressed by the characters 「籤引」, read as "kuji-biki". The term combines "くじ" (kuji), which can be translated as "lottery" or "ticket", and "ひき" (hiki), a form of the verb "hiku", which means "to pull" or "to draw". Together, they form the idea of "drawing a ticket", referring to the literal act of drawing a item from a collection or box.

The origin of 「くじ」 dates back to ancient Japan, where lotteries were frequently used in temples and festivals to distribute prizes or make decisions. These lotteries often carried a spiritual aspect, where it was believed that the results could be influenced by higher forces. The practice traditionally made use of wooden sticks or folded papers, each representing a specific number or fortune.

Nowadays, 「くじびき」 is applied on various occasions in Japan, from festivals to corporate events. The verb "hiku" is also commonly used in other expressions outside the context of a lottery. In contemporary context, the lottery can be a decision-making tool in professional environments or even for recreational purposes, highlighting a Japanese cultural aspect of seeking balance and harmony through methods of chance.

Variations and Modern Use

Omikuji: a specific type of raffle held in temples, involving tickets that reveal forecasts of the future.
Electronic lottery: growing presence in digital games and events, bringing tradition to the modern world.

The modern practice of 「くじびき」 keeps alive a cultural connection with the past while evolving to adapt to new technologies and applications. However, the essence remains the same: an act of luck, hope, and expectation. Thus, 「くじびき」 continues to be a practice that brings people together in its unpredictability and fun. This tradition demonstrates how, even in a constantly changing world, some practices and customs maintain their relevance and continue to be celebrated by new generations.