Proverb / Kotowaza
長者の万灯より貧者の一灯
A small gift given with sincere devotion is far more valuable than a lavish gift given for appearance.
One lantern from a poor person rather than ten thousand lanterns from a wealthy person
Quick Answer
A small gift given with sincere devotion is far more valuable than a lavish gift given for appearance.
- Literal Image
- One lantern from a poor person rather than ten thousand lanterns from a wealthy person
- Closest Equivalent
- It is not the gift, but the thought that counts.
- How to Use It
- Used to praise a small but heartfelt contribution, in the context of charity, volunteering, or personal sacrifice.
Meaning
This expression teaches that the true value of an offering or gift lies in the sincerity of the giver's heart rather than the material worth or quantity. A humble contribution is considered precious if it represents a person's genuine effort or sacrifice. In contrast, a massive donation given merely for social status or out of obligation is viewed as having less spiritual or emotional significance.
Literal Image
One lantern from a poor person rather than ten thousand lanterns from a wealthy person
Equivalent Proverbs
It is not the gift, but the thought that counts.
Focuses on the intent behind a gift.
How to Use It
Used to praise a small but heartfelt contribution, in the context of charity, volunteering, or personal sacrifice.
Tone
Serious and moralizing, emphasizing spiritual value over material wealth.
Examples
高額の寄付よりも、子供たちが集めた小銭の方が心に響く。長者の万灯より貧者の一灯とはこのことだ。
The small change collected by children is more touching than a high-value donation. This is exactly what 'a poor person's single lantern' means.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The proverb uses formal kanji compounds (choja, hinja, manto) and the comparative 'yori' structure. Its length and Buddhist origin make it more characteristic of advanced literary or formal Japanese.
長者
ちょうじゃ / choja
wealthy person
万灯
まんとう / manto
ten thousand lanterns
貧者
ひんじゃ / hinja
poor person
一灯
いっとう / itto
one lantern
Usage Profile
Usage note: While it praises the poor, using it to describe your own gift might sound overly self-deprecating or boastful of your own sincerity.
Misread Risk
This is not a criticism of being wealthy, but a criticism of hollow formality over genuine sincerity.
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Origin
This expression originates from a Buddhist tale. During the time of Shakyamuni, a poor old woman offered a single lantern with all her heart. Even when a great storm blew out the ten thousand lanterns offered by the wealthy, her single lantern remained lit.
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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.