Bowing is the Oriental counterpart of the Western handshake. Although, it is common in many Asian countries, nowhere is this more prevalent than in Japan, where is it regarded as a very important social gesture. By lowering the head, or sometimes the entire upper body, Japanese show their respect for the person they are bowing to.
Different forms of bows are used for conveying apologies, showing gratitude, expressing different emotions – humility, sincerity, remorse or deference. They are also used in traditional arts and religious ceremonies. Generally, the longer and deeper the bow, the stronger the emotion. A person of lower rank commonly bows longer, more deeply and more frequently than a person of higher rank.
One of the most impressive bows I have ever seen was that accorded to a high-ranking Japanese diplomat. As the diplomat was about to leave a function, the hosts (who were also Japanese) presented impressive gifts. They then took turns bowing several times to the dignitary, who also bowed in response. It was a simple act for them, it was a profound learning experience for me, telling me that respect should be a major part of our lives.
Different forms of bows are used for conveying apologies, showing gratitude, expressing different emotions – humility, sincerity, remorse or deference. They are also used in traditional arts and religious ceremonies. Generally, the longer and deeper the bow, the stronger the emotion. A person of lower rank commonly bows longer, more deeply and more frequently than a person of higher rank.
One of the most impressive bows I have ever seen was that accorded to a high-ranking Japanese diplomat. As the diplomat was about to leave a function, the hosts (who were also Japanese) presented impressive gifts. They then took turns bowing several times to the dignitary, who also bowed in response. It was a simple act for them, it was a profound learning experience for me, telling me that respect should be a major part of our lives.
0 comments:
Post a Comment