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justaprogressive

(2,447 posts) Mon Feb 12, 2024, 04:47 PM Feb 2024

My Maneki-Neko

The exact origin of Maneki Neko is somewhat disputed, but one of the most endearing and enduring tales is that local ruler Ii Naotaka was saved from a lightning bolt while visiting the Gotoku-ji temple in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo.

The abbot’s cat, Tama, beckoned Ii Naotaka into the temple, thereby saving his life from a lightning bolt. The cat was made a patron of the temple and, today, there are many statues of the lucky cat found on the site.

The most common color of Maneki Neko is a white cat with orange spots. But, different colors represent different meanings.

A calico cat is black, orange, and white and is the traditional combination and considered the luckiest.
White cats represent happiness and positivity.
Gold is the color most closely associated with money and wealth.
Black is meant to represent good and is used to ward off evil.
Red cats are said to bring success in relationships.
Green Maneki Neko are supposed to bring good health.

https://www.catster.com/lifestyle/lucky-cat-maneki-neko/

4 replies

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My Maneki-Neko (Original Post) justaprogressive Feb 2024 OP

Thank you! (I learn something new every day) Nictuku Feb 2024 #1

Yess, where were they when I justaprogressive Feb 2024 #2

Beautiful kitty! And I love the composition of your photo, my dear justaprogressive! Quite lovely. ♥ nt CaliforniaPeggy Feb 2024 #3

thank you. justaprogressive Feb 2024 #4

Nictuku

(3,863 posts)

1. Thank you! (I learn something new every day)

Reply to justaprogressive (Original post)

Mon Feb 12, 2024, 05:07 PM

Feb 2024

I have a small statue with 3 Maneki Neko's. (White, Gold, and Black) I thought they just warded off evil, and that you should have them facing the door for that purpose. I have had this for years! It is so nice to read their history. (I guess I should have gotten a Red one and even a Green one when I was still young enough to consider dating) Oh well!