Proverb / Kotowaza
知恵は万代の宝
Knowledge and wisdom are everlasting treasures with value that transcends generations.
Wisdom is a treasure for ten thousand generations.
Quick Answer
Knowledge and wisdom are everlasting treasures with value that transcends generations.
- Literal Image
- Wisdom is a treasure for ten thousand generations.
- Closest Equivalent
- Knowledge is the greatest wealth.
- How to Use It
- Used when emphasizing the long-term value of learning and intellectual growth over the accumulation of material riches.
Meaning
This proverb conveys that intellectual assets have a permanent value that exceeds material wealth. While physical property can be lost, knowledge and wisdom remain with an individual throughout their life and can be shared with those who follow.
Literal Image
Wisdom is a treasure for ten thousand generations.
Equivalent Proverbs
Knowledge is the greatest wealth.
Reflects the same focus on intellectual value.
Wisdom is better than riches.
Focuses on the superiority of wisdom over assets.
How to Use It
Used when emphasizing the long-term value of learning and intellectual growth over the accumulation of material riches.
Tone
Instructive and reflective.
Examples
親が残してくれたのは財産ではなく、勉強の大切さを教えてくれたことだった。知恵は万代の宝とはよく言ったものだ。
What my parents left behind wasn't wealth, but helping me understand the importance of learning. It is truly said that wisdom is a treasure for ten thousand generations.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The grammar uses a simple 'A wa B' structure. While 'bandai' is a more formal term, the individual kanji are basic.
知恵
ちえ / chie
wisdom
万代
ばんだい / bandai
eternity; ten thousand generations
宝
たから / takara
treasure
Usage Profile
Usage note: None.
Misread Risk
Do not interpret this only as a reference to academic schooling; it encompasses all forms of useful knowledge and insight.
Search As
Related Proverbs
Origin
The term 'bandai' means 'eternity' or 'ten thousand generations,' signifying that wisdom retains its value regardless of the era. This proverb stems from the belief that unlike material property, knowledge and wisdom cannot be seized and are passed down to future generations.
Index
Topics, Situations, and Tags
Topics
Situations
Tags
Source Note
Where did this entry get its data from? The reference links are listed below. To understand how to read this section, see Data Sources.