is an element of traditional Japanese etiquette which involves kneeling directly on the ground and bowing to prostrate oneself while touching one's head to the floor.Leaman, Oliver Friendship East and West: philosophical perspectives p. 74American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (2006) The Journal of the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan ACCJ p. 54 It is used to show deference to a person of higher status, as a deep apology or to express the desire for a favor from said person.
The term is used in Japanese politics such as which is translated to "kowtow diplomacy" or "kowtow foreign policy".Dobson, Hugo (2003) [Japan and United Nations peacekeeping: new pressures, new responses] Routledge, p. 20 Olsen, Edward A. (1985) U.S.-Japan Strategic Reciprocity: A Neo-Internationalist View Hoover Press, vol. 307. p.109Drifte, Reinhard (2003) Japan's security relations with China since 1989: from balancing to bandwagoning? Routledge, p.7 In general, dogeza is translated into English as "prostration" or "kowtow".
The meaning of performing dogeza In the Japanese social consciousness, the act of sitting on the ground and creating a scene (dogeza), is an uncommon deference only used when one is deviating greatly from expected behavior. It is seen as part of etiquette and is an expression of remorse for troubling the other person. By performing dogeza and apologizing to someone, often the other person will be at least somewhat mollified.
History
In the Gishiwajinden (魏志倭人伝), the oldest Chinese record of encounters with the Japanese, it was mentioned that commoners of the ancient Yamataikoku would, upon meeting noblemen along the road, fall prostrate on the spot, clapping their hands as in prayer (柏手 read: kashiwade), and this is believed to be an old Japanese custom.
The haniwa of the Kofun period can be seen prostrating themselves in dogeza.
In the early modern period, popularly as the daimyōs procession passed by, it is believed that it was mandatory for the commoners present to perform dogeza, but that is incorrect. It was normal for common people to perform dogeza in modern times when being interviewed by higher-ups.
Even now, as a method of self-protection and apology in which damage to one's image is neglected, its idea of feeling shame remains firmly rooted.
See also
Kowtow Sujud Japanese culture Wa (name of Japan) Genuflection Prostration Prostration (Buddhism) Bowing in Eastern Orthodox Church tradition
References