ITADAKIMASU

You may have read this phrase in the previous post, but I would like to formally introduce in this post a wonderful Japanese custom. The Japanese expression ITADAKIMASU is the very first phrase I learn by heart. Time and again, I always clearly hear it in most dorama or Japanese drama, jmovies and anime. And it is such pleasure to hear it before they enjoy their meal. They say it with such gusto, making our monotonous-rhythmic-lengthy Catholic prayers sounding mediocre.

A Japanese meal begins with this dining custom of stating this expressive phrase, ITADAKIMASU with a namaste gesture. Some would simple translate it as “let’s eat,” but the closes translations are “I receive,” or “I will have it/take it.” To be sure, I look it up in my Japanese dictionary; it says “I will take your life.” This is in reflection that we ask for permission and give gratitude for the lives or/and spirits that had been taken for the preparation and presentation of the food. Considering that all living things have spirit, and as the spirit of the living organisms are extinguish and offered to us in the form of food. The gratitude is extended for those who prepared the food, together with the farmers who toil the earth, the fishermen who brave the unpredictable sea and weather, the chefs who strive to extract the flavor and beauty of each plate for our palate, and all those who put their endeavor to provide a healthy and delicious meal.

Thus, please on your next meal offer a prayer to all who provide their time and their lives to give you energy. Maybe, just saying a short expression of ITADAKIMASU may suffice.

Oh! Upon finishing a meal, another polite Japanese expression is uttered "GOCHISOUSAMA DESHITA," which will be the topic of my next post.