Why do Japanese people say ‘Itadakimasu’?

What is ‘Itadakimasu’?

Have you ever seen Japanese people clasp their hands together before eating?

In Japan, people always say ‘Itadakimasu’ before eating.

Does it mean ‘Let’s eat’? No, it’s more than that. 

People always say ‘itadakimasu’ before eating, no matter where they are.

Whether it’s school lunch, a business lunch, or a convenience store bento,

Japanese people almost always say ‘itadakimasu.’

However, this is not just a greeting, but a deep expression of gratitude.

What is the meaning behind ‘itadakimasu’?

“Itadakimasu” literally means ‘I humbly accept.’

The objects of gratitude are:

The animals and plants that gave their lives, for which we are grateful.

The people who prepared the food, for which we are thankful.

To the companions sharing the table, we express our gratitude for being able to eat together.

Rooted in Buddhist philosophy and the value of ‘harmony,’ it embodies respect and gratitude for the act of eating.

‘Itadakimasu’ as a ritual

The familiar ‘Itadakimasu!’ from anime and dramas

Joining both hands and bowing slightly, it’s like a small ritual

Children are taught by their parents, ‘If you don’t say “Itadakimasu,” no dinner!’

And if they start eating without saying ‘Itadakimasu,’ their parents will inevitably ask, ‘Did you say “Itadakimasu”?’ In this way, Japanese people naturally develop the habit of saying ‘Itadakimasu’ from a young age. 

‘Itadakimasu’ is the spirit of the Japanese people 

“Itadakimasu” is a single word that conveys the ‘gratitude’ that is often forgotten in the midst of busyness. 

This small word speaks volumes about the Japanese heart.