草木萠動 (そうもくめばえいずる) – 生命の息吹を感じる季節

草木萠動 (そうもくめばえいずる) – 生命の息吹を感じる季節

日本語

草木萠動は、七十二候の一つで、春の訪れを告げる美しい言葉です。意味は「草木が芽吹き始める」こと。厳しい冬の寒さを乗り越え、大地に温かい陽光が降り注ぐ頃、小さな緑の芽が土中や木々の枝から顔を出す様子は、生命の力強さを感じさせてくれます。

草木萠動の時期は、地域によって異なりますが、一般的には3月上旬から中旬頃です。早春の澄んだ空気の中、梅の花が咲き始め、河原には蕗の薹が顔を出し、公園の芝生にはクローバーの芽が緑の絨毯を織り始めます。足元を彩る小さな草花を見つけたら、ぜひ立ち止まって、その生命の息吹を感じてみてください。

草木萠動は、単に植物が芽吹くというだけでなく、私たち人間の心にも希望を与えてくれます。寒い冬が終わり、新たな季節が始まるという喜びは、私たちの心を明るくし、未来への活力を与えてくれます。

英語

Sōmoku Mebuedzuru is one of the seventy-two候 (こう), or seasonal divisions of the Japanese calendar, and it marks the beginning of spring. It literally means “the emergence of plant buds”. This is a time when the harsh winter cold has finally subsided, and warm sunlight begins to bathe the earth. In response to this gentle nurturing, tiny green shoots start to emerge from the ground and from the branches of trees, symbolizing the resilience and strength of life.

The timing of Sōmoku Mebuedzuru varies depending on the region, but it generally falls between early and mid-March. During this early spring season, the air is clear and crisp, and the plum blossoms begin to bloom. On the riverbanks, you can spot the buds of butterbur peeking out, and in the park, clover sprouts start to form a green carpet on the lawn. Take a moment to stop and appreciate these small but vibrant signs of life at your feet.

Sōmoku Mebuedzuru is not just about the芽吹き of plants; it also brings hope to our hearts. The joy of seeing winter come to an end and a new season begin brightens our spirits and gives us energy for the future.

Here are some additional details about Sōmoku Mebuedzuru:

• Dates: March 6-9 (2024)
• Related phenomena: Blooming of plum blossoms, emergence of butterbur buds, growth of clover sprouts
• Significance: Symbolizes the beginning of spring, the resilience of life, and hope for the future

I hope this column has helped you to appreciate the beauty and significance of Sōmoku Mebuedzuru.