In Japan high emphasis in daily life is
traditionally placed upon the virtue of modesty. This concept
is known as Kenkyo. Because Japan is a 'vertical society' it is important to know what your role is and how it works out in
society. An important way to demonstrate an understanding of society
is by being careful in the use of communication with others. Hence,
the importance of modesty! In the Japanese language a whole subset of
special words as well as grammatical forms are employed for use when
speaking with superiors to demonstrate modesty. This subset is known
as Keigo and is used extensively in the business world as well
as when speaking with one's elders! Knowing how to use the correct
expressions in Japanese society becomes very important. To
demonstrate ones modesty by downplaying compliments or deflecting
conversations away from oneself becomes a carefully orchestrated
“dance” here. In the West this may seem silly or really overdoing
the formalities, but here in Japan it is seen as necessary to show
humility. Interestingly enough, in Japan this kind of passive or
overly polite behavior is seen as a great virtue. Those who are
humble, quiet, obedient, unquestioning to authority, and compliant
are greatly valued here. (Although that is changing somewhat with new
generations.) Whereas in America the opposite is true! Can you see
how politics or businesses would clash when East meets West?
How does this value impact ministry?
Since Japanese people value great modesty they can appreciate that
the same virtues are taught by Christianity in the Bible. For this
reason many Japanese respect Christians even if they do not want to
become a Christian. The great truth of Christianity is that God can
transform the inner man through salvation, which leads to true
humility. Inward humility from a sincere motive truly comes from God.
Often times Japanese are taught to be humble outwardly because it is
required of society lest they be shamed, however it does not
necessarily mean that they are humble people in reality. Often times
visitors become disappointed to find out that the humility here is
just an act. As Christians we know that only the inward heart change
can truly change a person. Once a Japanese person realizes that, they
are free to 'be themselves'. In the West we have no idea how much
pressure can be exerted on a person to act a certain way because
society demands it since we are so used to freely being able to
express ourselves. Unfortunately, in the West our freedom often leads
to various sins and crimes. Although modesty is a great virtue
practiced here in Japan, it comes at the cost of sincerity often
times as it is the product of forced compliance from fear of shame or
dishonor. Please pray that true freedom in Christ can be found by
these people!
