Animal Proverb

Playing the Koto to Cows

This proverb might seem a bit complex at first glance, leaving one to wonder about its meaning. Perhaps it's the first time you've heard of it? By the way, the 'koto' mentioned here is a traditional Japanese stringed musical instrument, and 'playing' translates to the act of playing it. So, what backstory lies behind the act of playing the koto to cows? Let's delve deeper together and uncover its origins.

ことわざウシ

Basic Infomation

What does 'Playing the Koto to Cows' mean?

It means that no matter how wonderful or noble the teaching or principle presented, it is utterly useless if shared with someone of low ability or lacking aspiration.

How did this proverb originate?

Long ago in Lu, China, there lived a man named Gong Mingyi who was fond of ritual music (a combination of etiquette and music). One day, in front of cows, he played 'Seikaku no Sou', a famous piece, on the koto. However, the cows continued to eat grass in front of them without lending an ear to the masterpiece.

When he tried to mimic the sound of mosquitoes or the cries of calves, the cows started to show interest, wagging their tails and perking up their ears.

Witnessing this, Gong Mingyi realized that no matter how wonderful something might be, it's of no use to those who cannot comprehend it. This incident was later recorded in the book 'Sotei Jiten', giving birth to this proverb.