The Three Wise Monkeys: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Meaning, History, and Modern Symbolism
You have likely encountered them in various forms: as small stone statues in a garden, as decorative figurines on a mantelpiece, or even as frequently used emojis on your smartphone. The Three Wise Monkeys—one covering its eyes, one its ears, and one its mouth—are among the most universally recognized symbols in the world. However, beyond their visual appeal lies a profound philosophical depth that spans centuries and continents.
In this comprehensive guide, you will explore the intricate origins of these figures, their linguistic roots in Japan, their philosophical ties to ancient China and India, and why their message remains more relevant today than ever before. Whether you view them as a moral code or a psychological tool, understanding the Three Wise Monkeys offers valuable insights into human behavior and ethics.
What are the Three Wise Monkeys?
The Three Wise Monkeys represent the proverbial principle “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.” In Japanese tradition, they are known as Mizaru, Kikazaru, and Iwazaru. Each monkey is depicted performing a specific action that corresponds to one part of the proverb:
- Mizaru: The monkey covering its eyes, representing “see no evil.”
- Kikazaru: The monkey covering its ears, representing “hear no evil.”
- Iwazaru: The monkey covering its mouth, representing “speak no evil.”
While often interpreted in Western culture as a “turning a blind eye” to misconduct, the original Eastern philosophy suggests a much more proactive and positive approach to mindfulness and moral integrity. It is a call to protect one’s mind from being polluted by negativity and harmful influences.
The Historical Origins: From Ancient China to Nikko, Japan
To truly understand the Three Wise Monkeys, you must look back at the historical threads that woven them into the fabric of global culture. While the most famous physical representation is found in Japan, the roots of the philosophy are much older.
The Confucian Influence
Many historians believe the core philosophy originated in China. In the Analects of Confucius (dating from the 4th to 2nd century BC), there is a passage that reads: “Look not at what is contrary to propriety; listen not to what is contrary to propriety; speak not what is contrary to propriety; make no movement which is contrary to propriety.” This four-part maxim likely traveled from China to Japan via Buddhist monks, where it was eventually distilled into the three-monkey motif.
The Toshogu Shrine in Nikko
The most famous depiction of the Three Wise Monkeys is located at the Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, Japan. Carved in the 17th century by the artist Hidari Jingoro, these figures adorn the Sacred Stable of the shrine. The carvings are part of an eight-panel series that depicts the stages of a human life, using monkeys as metaphors for human behavior.
The Three Wise Monkeys represent the stage of childhood. The message conveyed at the Toshogu Shrine is that children should be shielded from evil influences during their formative years so they may grow into virtuous adults. This specific historical context highlights the protective nature of the symbol.
The Linguistic Pun: Why Monkeys?
You might wonder why monkeys were chosen to represent this philosophy. The answer lies in a clever Japanese play on words. In the Japanese language, the suffix -zaru is used to negate a verb (similar to “not”). For example:
- Mi-zaru means “not see.”
- Kika-zaru means “not hear.”
- Iwa-zaru means “not speak.”
The word for monkey in Japanese is saru. Because -zaru sounds very similar to saru, the Japanese people personified these three “nots” as monkeys. This linguistic coincidence transformed a serious moral code into an easily remembered visual mnemonic that has survived for hundreds of years.
Deep Dive: Mizaru, Kikazaru, and Iwazaru
To apply the wisdom of the Three Wise Monkeys to your own life, it is helpful to examine each figure individually. Each one offers a specific lesson in mindfulness and ethical conduct.
1. Mizaru (See No Evil)
Mizaru covers his eyes to avoid looking at things that are harmful, indecent, or morally wrong. In a modern context, you can interpret this as being selective about the media you consume. In an era of “doom-scrolling” and graphic digital content, Mizaru reminds you that what you allow into your visual field significantly impacts your mental well-being and moral compass.
2. Kikazaru (Hear No Evil)
Kikazaru covers his ears to block out gossip, slander, and negativity. This monkey teaches you the importance of filtering the information you receive. By refusing to listen to malicious talk or destructive criticism, you prevent yourself from becoming a vessel for negativity and protect your inner peace.
3. Iwazaru (Speak No Evil)
Iwazaru covers his mouth to prevent the spread of harmful words. This is perhaps the most challenging discipline. It encourages you to speak only what is true, kind, and necessary. By practicing “speak no evil,” you avoid the pitfalls of lying, gossiping, or using language that hurts others.
The Forgotten Fourth Monkey: Shizaru
While the trio is famous worldwide, you may be surprised to learn that there is sometimes a fourth monkey. This fourth figure is named Shizaru, and he is usually depicted with his arms crossed or covering his abdomen/genitals.
Shizaru represents the principle of “Do No Evil.” This addition rounds out the philosophy by moving from passive observation (seeing, hearing, speaking) to active behavior. However, Shizaru is often omitted from Western representations, possibly because the number three is culturally more significant in the West, or because the original carvings at Nikko only featured three.
The Global Spread: Mahatma Gandhi and the Three Monkeys
The Three Wise Monkeys gained significant popularity in India and the West largely due to Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi was known for living a life of extreme simplicity and possessed very few material belongings. Among his few possessions was a small statue of the Three Wise Monkeys.
Gandhi used the monkeys as a teaching tool to promote the message of non-violence (Ahimsa) and purity of mind. He believed that by following these principles, an individual could maintain peace even in the face of colonial oppression. Today, Gandhi’s monkeys are a symbol of peace and moral resistance across the Indian subcontinent.
Psychological and Ethical Interpretations
The meaning of the Three Wise Monkeys has evolved as it moved through different cultures. Depending on your perspective, the symbol can be seen in two very different ways.
The Positive Perspective: Mindfulness
In Eastern philosophy, the monkeys represent disciplined mindfulness. They suggest that by controlling your senses, you can remain untainted by the chaos of the world. It is about choosing to focus on the good and maintaining personal integrity. This interpretation aligns with Buddhist teachings on the “Right Speech” and “Right Action” paths of the Eightfold Path.
The Negative Perspective: Ignorance and Denial
In many Western societies, the phrase “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” has taken on a slightly cynical tone. It is often used to describe someone who is willfully ignorant or who refuses to acknowledge a problem (like a “head in the sand” mentality). In this context, the monkeys represent a failure of responsibility—turning a blind eye to corruption or injustice to avoid getting involved.
When you use this symbol, it is important to clarify which meaning you are invoking. Are you promoting personal purity, or are you critiquing societal apathy?
The Three Wise Monkeys in the Digital Age
In the 21st century, the Three Wise Monkeys have found a new home in our digital communication. The Mizaru, Kikazaru, and Iwazaru emojis are among the most popular icons used in text messaging and social media.
However, their modern usage often deviates from the original wisdom. You might use the “see no evil” monkey to express embarrassment or “I can’t believe I just saw that!” You might use the “speak no evil” monkey to say “my lips are sealed” regarding a secret. While these uses are lighthearted, they reflect how deeply ingrained these figures have become in our collective consciousness.
Social Media and Misinformation
From a more serious standpoint, the principles of the Three Wise Monkeys are incredibly relevant to the challenges of the internet.
- See No Evil: Choosing not to engage with toxic content or “rage-bait.”
- Hear No Evil: Fact-checking information before believing it and avoiding echo chambers.
- Speak No Evil: Refraining from cyberbullying or spreading unverified rumors.
How to Apply the Wisdom of the Three Monkeys in Your Daily Life
If you wish to integrate this ancient wisdom into your modern routine, consider these practical steps:
- Audit Your Information Intake: Be conscious of the news and social media accounts you follow. If they consistently bring “evil” (negativity, hate, or anxiety) into your life, consider “covering your eyes” by unfollowing them.
- Practice Active Listening: When you are in a conversation that turns toward gossip or belittling others, “cover your ears.” You don’t have to be rude; you can simply choose not to participate or redirect the conversation to a more positive topic.
- The Three-Gate Rule: Before you speak or post online, ask yourself: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? If it fails any of these gates, “cover your mouth.”
- Mindful Action: Remember the fourth monkey, Shizaru. Ensure that your actions align with your values. It is not enough to just think good thoughts; you must do good deeds.
The Enduring Legacy of the Three Wise Monkeys
The Three Wise Monkeys have survived for centuries because they address a fundamental human struggle: the battle for self-control and moral clarity. Whether they are carved in wood at a Japanese shrine or sent as an emoji in a group chat, they remind us that we have agency over what we consume and what we contribute to the world.
By understanding their history—from the teachings of Confucius to the simplicity of Gandhi—you can appreciate these figures as more than just cute animals. They are a timeless roadmap for living a life of peace, integrity, and mindfulness. In a world that is louder and more visual than ever before, the quiet discipline of Mizaru, Kikazaru, and Iwazaru is a gift you can give to yourself every day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where did the Three Wise Monkeys originate?
While the philosophical roots are likely Chinese (Confucianism), the specific visual representation of the three monkeys originated in Japan during the 17th century, most notably at the Toshogu Shrine in Nikko.
What are the names of the Three Wise Monkeys?
The names are Mizaru (See No Evil), Kikazaru (Hear No Evil), and Iwazaru (Speak No Evil). Occasionally, a fourth monkey named Shizaru (Do No Evil) is included.
What does the “See No Evil” monkey mean?
Originally, it meant to protect oneself from looking at improper or immoral things. In modern times, it can also refer to willful ignorance or being “blind” to the truth.
Why did Gandhi like the Three Wise Monkeys?
Gandhi appreciated the symbol because it mirrored his own philosophy of non-violence and purity of thought, word, and deed. It served as a simple reminder to keep one’s mind focused on the truth.
Is there a fourth monkey?
Yes, the fourth monkey is Shizaru, which represents “Do No Evil.” He is often depicted with his hands over his stomach or crossed over his lap.
