ReviewsEditors
If you thought emojis were a modern invention, think again! The monkey emoji has an ancient and fascinating history dating back thousands of years. But did you know that it can also be used in modern and useful ways? In this article, we will explore the evolution of the monkey emoji and its contemporary uses. Buckle up and get ready to be surprised by these little virtual monkeys!
Table of contents
Monkey Emoji: An Ancient Story with Modern Usefulness
In today's digital world, emojis have become an essential means of communication. Among the many emojis available, the monkey emoji is one of the most popular and recognizable. But what is the story behind this emoji and how did it become so popular?
The Origins of the Proverb “See Nothing, Hear Nothing, Speak Nothing”
The history of the monkey emoji dates back to an ancient Japanese proverb that says: “See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.” This proverb originates from a 17th-century Shinto pictorial maxim carved at the Tōshō-gū Shinto shrine in Japan.
The three wise monkeys, Mizaru, Kikazaru and Iwazaru, represent the idea of protecting oneself from unpleasant behavior, thoughts or words. The proverb has Buddhist roots and emphasizes not dwelling on bad thoughts, but in Western cultures it implies ignorance or looking away.
The Symbolism of Monkeys in the Shinto Religion
Monkeys have a special meaning in the Shinto religion. In the sculpture, the proverb was represented by three monkeys: Mizaru covers his eyes (see nothing), Kikazaru covers his ears (hear nothing) and Iwazaru covers his mouth (speak nothing).
Early Chinese Confucian philosophies influenced the proverb. A sentence from the 3rd or 4th century BC read:
“Do not look, do not listen, do not speak, do not make any movement contrary to decorum. »
Buddhist and Hindu Influence
Some early Buddhist and Hindu versions included a fourth monkey, Shizaru, symbolizing "doing nothing wrong", either by crossing one's arms or covering one's genitals.
The Mizaru emoji, along with Kikazaru and Iwazaru, was approved as part of Unicode 6.0 in 2010 and added to Emoji 1.0 in 2015.
Modern Use of the Monkey Emoji
The monkey emoji is often used lightly, deviating from the serious intent of its creators. He can be used to express a wide range of emotions, from amusement to surprise to embarrassment. The emoji is also used to indicate silence or not seeing or hearing something.
Despite its light usage, the fundamental concepts of the maxim remain, which is impressive considering its long history.
Discover also >> Emoji Meaning: Top 45 Smileys You Should Know Their Hidden Meanings & Smiley: The Real Meaning of Heart Emoji and All Its Colors
Conclusion
The monkey emoji is an example of how ancient proverbs and philosophies can be adapted and used in the modern world. Although the emoji is often used lightly, its origins and meaning run deep and reflect ancient values and beliefs.
Q: When was the monkey emoji added to Emoji 1.0?
A: The monkey emoji was added to Emoji 1.0 in 2015.
Q: What is the modern use of the monkey emoji?
A: The monkey emoji is often used to express a wide range of emotions, from amusement to surprise to embarrassment. It is also used to indicate silence or not seeing or hearing something.
Q: What is the origin of the proverb “See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil”?
A: The proverb “See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” dates back to a 17th-century Shinto pictorial maxim carved at the Tōshō-gū Shinto shrine in Japan.
Q: What is the story behind the monkey emoji?
A: The monkey emoji, also known as Mizaru, Kikazaru, and Iwazaru, was added to Emoji 1.0 in 2015. Its origin dates back to an ancient Japanese proverb that says "See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil." ".
Q: How popular is the monkey emoji?
A: The monkey emoji is one of the most popular and recognizable emojis among the many emojis available today.
