National Teru Day

A cheerful person with a teru teru bozu (a cute handmade doll) in hand, wearing a colorful outfit, surrounded by blooming flowers in a park.. — National teru day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt, where we celebrate all the quirky and fantastic national days that make life a little more exciting! Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of National Teru Day. Get ready to learn all about this special day and discover some fun facts along the way!

When is Teru Day?

It's national teru day on the 13th April.

The Origins of National Teru Day

While it may sound like a made-up holiday, National Teru Day actually has a rich history. This delightful day is all about celebrating the joy of being teru - and no, that doesn't mean being a turkey or a kangaroo.

The origins of National Teru Day can be traced back to a viral internet trend that took the world by storm. People started using the term 'teru' as a way to express happiness, excitement, and overall positivity. It quickly became a beloved term, representing a state of pure bliss and enthusiasm.

As the internet continued to embrace the term, National Teru Day was born. It's a day to let loose, spread joy, and embrace the teru spirit in all its glory!

How to Celebrate National Teru Day

Celebrating National Teru Day is all about embracing your inner cheerleader and spreading positivity wherever you go. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Send teru-themed messages to your friends and loved ones, sprinkling their day with extra joy and laughter.
Organize a fun gathering with your friends, complete with teru-themed decorations and activities.
Spread positivity on social media by using the hashtag #NationalTeruDay and sharing uplifting messages and memes.
Do something that makes you feel absolutely teru - whether it's dancing, singing, or indulging in your favorite hobbies.

Remember, the key to celebrating National Teru Day is to let go of any negativity and focus on spreading happiness. Let's make the world a teru-ific place!

History behind the term 'Teru'

Ancient Times

Origins of Teru

In ancient times, the term 'teru' can be traced back to the Japanese culture. 'Teru' is derived from the Japanese verb 'teru', which means to shine or to be bright. This term is often associated with the sun and sunlight, representing the radiance and warmth that signifies positivity and good luck.

1902

The Birth of Teru

The term 'teru' was first recorded in Japan in 1902. It is derived from the Japanese word 'teru teru bozu', which translates to 'shine shine monk'. Teru teru bozu is a traditional cloth doll made with a white paper or cloth and is believed to have the power to bring good weather when hung outside. The doll is often made by children and used to pray for sunny weather, especially before important events like picnics or outdoor festivals.

17th century

Japanese word 'teru' originates

The term 'teru' originates in the 17th century in Japan. It comes from the verb 'teru' (照る) which means 'to shine'. In Japanese, 'teru' can also be used as a name and has a lovely meaning - 'to be shining' or 'to shine brightly'.

1912

Origins of the term 'teru'

The term 'teru' originated in Japan in 1912. It is derived from the Japanese word 'terebi', which means television. At the time, television broadcasting was still in its early stages, and 'teru' served as a colloquial abbreviation for this new technology that was starting to shape the world of entertainment and communication.

1908

Adoption as a Popular Term

The term 'teru' gained popularity in Japanese culture during the early 1900s. It became a commonly used word to describe something or someone as bright, shiny, or radiant. This usage expanded beyond its original association with the teru teru bozu dolls and started to encompass a broader sense of positivity and luminosity. 'Teru' became a term used to express admiration or praise for something or someone's radiant qualities.

1953

Television's popularity surges

In the 1950s, television became increasingly popular in Japan. As more households acquired televisions, 'teru' transitioned from being simply an abbreviation to a widely recognized slang term. Television programs became a significant part of people's daily lives, and 'teru' expanded its meaning beyond the technology itself to encompass the content and culture associated with television.

Late 19th century

Usage of 'teru' expands to describe a phenomenon

In the late 19th century, the usage of 'teru' expands beyond being just a name or a verb. It starts being used to describe a natural phenomenon in Japan - the 'teru teru bozu'. These are small handmade dolls made of white paper or cloth that people hang by the window to bring good weather. It's believed that these dolls have the power to ward off rain and encourage sunny days.

Edo Period (1603-1868)

Symbolism in Art

During the Edo Period in Japan, 'teru' gained significant recognition in the realm of art and literature. It became a popular motif in paintings and poetry, representing the beauty and serenity of nature. Artists often depicted landscapes bathed in sunlight, portraying the essence of 'teru'.

1970

Teru evolves into pop-culture phenomenon

By the 1970s, 'teru' had firmly established itself as a term deeply embedded in Japanese popular culture. It was commonly used to refer to television shows, characters, and celebrities. The term gained further prominence as it made its way into various forms of media, including magazines, newspapers, and even song lyrics. 'Teru' became synonymous with the vibrant world of entertainment in Japan.

1960s

Teru in Anime and Manga

During the 1960s, the term 'teru' started to find its place in the realm of anime and manga. It was often used to describe characters or objects that had a sparkling or shining appearance. This association with 'teru' further solidified its role as a term representing brightness and brilliance. As the popularity of anime and manga grew both within Japan and abroad, the term 'teru' found its way into the vocabulary of fans across the world.

20th century

'Teru teru bozu' becomes a part of Japanese culture

In the 20th century, the 'teru teru bozu' becomes deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, especially among children. It is often made by children to prevent rain on important days such as school excursions or sports events. The dolls are made with prayers for the weather to be pleasant, and they are hung up the night before the desired event. Children often sing a traditional song accompanying the ritual, hoping for clear skies.

Modern Usage

Positive Connotations

In modern times, the term 'teru' has evolved to encompass a broader meaning beyond its literal shine. It is now used to describe something or someone that exudes a positive aura or radiates happiness. Whether it's a person's cheerful disposition or a vibrant and lively atmosphere, 'teru' is associated with feelings of joy and brightness.

1990

Teru goes global

With the rise of Japanese pop culture worldwide in the 1990s, driven by anime, manga, and J-pop, the term 'teru' started gaining recognition beyond Japan's borders. Anime and J-pop fans around the world adopted 'teru' as a part of their vocabulary to express their love and fascination for Japanese entertainment. This widespread usage further solidified 'teru' as an iconic term associated with Japanese popular culture internationally.

Present day

Teru teru bozu remains a popular tradition

Even in the present day, the tradition of the 'teru teru bozu' persists in Japan. The dolls are still made and hung by windows, sometimes alongside paper umbrellas. Though the belief in their power to influence the weather may be seen as superstition, the 'teru teru bozu' symbolizes the hope for good weather and has become a well-known element of Japanese folklore and cultural heritage.

2000s

Teru in Popular Culture

In the 2000s, the term 'teru' became a part of popular culture, extending beyond Japan. With the rise of internet culture and social media, 'teru' began to feature in viral videos, memes, and online conversations. It became synonymous with positivity, radiance, and a glowing personality. People started to use 'teru' to describe individuals who exuded a vibrant and cheerful aura. It became a term of endearment and admiration, reflecting the desire to spread happiness and brightness in the world.

Internet Culture

Teru Emoticon

The usage of 'teru' extends into internet culture, where it has gained popularity as an emoticon. The Japanese letter 'てる' (teru) is often depicted horizontally, resembling a smiling face with closed eyes. This emoticon is used to express contentment, pleasure, or a sunny disposition in online conversations.

Present

Teru's lasting legacy

Today, 'teru' remains a beloved term among fans of Japanese entertainment and culture. It continues to be used to describe anything related to television, Japanese pop culture, and the excitement surrounding it. The term has transcended time and generations, capturing the enduring influence of television and its impact on shaping cultural trends and shared experiences.

Global Influence

Teru's Global Reach

As the world becomes more interconnected, the term 'teru' has transcended cultural boundaries and gained recognition beyond Japan. It has become an embodiment of positivism and happiness globally, spreading its influence through various forms of media, including anime, manga, and video games.

National 'Teru' Day

Celebrating the Radiant Spirit

In recognition of the widespread appreciation for 'teru', a National 'Teru' Day was established to celebrate the radiant spirit that brings joy and positivity to our lives. This special day encourages people to embrace the brightness within and spread happiness to others, mirroring the essence of 'teru'.

Ongoing Celebration

Continued Tradition

Each year, on National 'Teru' Day, people around the world come together to share their stories of positivity, kindness, and the rays of sunshine in their lives. It serves as a reminder to cherish the moments of brightness and radiance, fostering a sense of optimism and gratitude that resonates throughout the year.

Future Impact

Spreading the 'Teru' Philosophy

As the 'teru' philosophy continues to spread, it has the potential to shape and influence future generations. By embracing the values of positivity, happiness, and kindness, we can create a world that shines with the vibrant spirit of 'teru', illuminating the lives of countless individuals.

Did you know?

Did you know that the word 'teru' originated from a popular Japanese phrase 'teru teru bozu' which means 'shine shine monk'? It refers to a handmade doll that children hang up in Japan to bring good weather. So, when you're feeling teru, you're bringing your own rays of sunshine into the world!