Proverb / Kotowaza
仲裁は時の氏神
A person who intervenes in a quarrel is as helpful and welcome as a guardian deity appearing at just the right time.
Arbitration is the guardian deity of the moment
Quick Answer
A person who intervenes in a quarrel is as helpful and welcome as a guardian deity appearing at just the right time.
- Literal Image
- Arbitration is the guardian deity of the moment
- How to Use It
- Used to acknowledge the helpful and timely presence of a neutral party who resolves a heated argument or dispute.
Meaning
This proverb expresses gratitude toward someone who steps in to mediate a conflict. It compares a mediator to an 'ujigami' (a local guardian deity) who appears when needed most, suggesting that timely intervention is a dependable and benevolent act that restores peace.
Literal Image
Arbitration is the guardian deity of the moment
How to Use It
Used to acknowledge the helpful and timely presence of a neutral party who resolves a heated argument or dispute.
Tone
Expresses relief and respect toward the mediator.
Examples
二人が激しく言い争っているとき、先輩が間に入ってくれた。仲裁は時の氏神、本当に助かった。
While the two were arguing fiercely, a senior colleague stepped in. A mediator is like a godsend; it was a real help.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The proverb uses specific terms like 'chusai' (arbitration) and 'ujigami' (guardian deity) that are less in basic study, though the grammar structure is straightforward.
仲裁
ちゅうさい / chusai
mediation; arbitration
時
とき / toki
time; the moment
氏神
うじがみ / ujigami
local guardian deity
Usage Profile
Usage note: This is a word of praise for the mediator, not a justification for the people starting the fight.
Misread Risk
Do not confuse 'ujigami' (guardian deity) with 'ujiko' (shrine parishioner); the proverb specifically compares the person to the deity.
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Origin
The term 'ujigami' refers to a regional guardian deity. This proverb arose from the sentiment that someone who puts an end to a quarrel is as dependable and worthy of gratitude as a guardian deity appearing at that very moment to protect the peace.
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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.