Meiji Emperor

Modernized Japan

Modern influential 74 sayings

Sayings by Meiji Emperor

The seas of the four directions – all are born of one womb: why, then, do the wind and waves rise in discord?

Late 19th - early 20th century — A poem expressing a desire for peace and unity.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The seas of the four directions – all are born of one womb: why, then, do the wind and waves rise in discord?

Late 19th - early 20th century — A poem expressing a desire for peace and unity.
Strange & Unusual Confirmed

How depressing it has been, Even within the palace.

Late 19th - early 20th century — A personal poem, revealing a sense of melancholy or confinement.
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

How depressing it has been, Even within the palace.

Late 19th - early 20th century — A personal poem, revealing a sense of melancholy or confinement.
Strange & Unusual Confirmed

We must reform our antiquated customs and adopt the strengths of foreign nations.

Late 19th century — On modernization
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

A nation’s strength lies in the education of its youth.

Late 19th century — On education reforms
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

Seek knowledge throughout the world, and thus strengthen the foundations of imperial rule.

1868 — From the Charter Oath of 1868, which he formally promulgated, though likely drafted by his advisors.
Controversial Unverifiable

All classes, high and low, shall unite in vigorously carrying out the affairs of the state.

1868 — From the Charter Oath of 1868.
Controversial Unverifiable

The people shall be allowed to pursue their own callings, so that there may be no discontent.

1868 — From the Charter Oath of 1868.
Controversial Unverifiable

All absurd usages of old shall be broken through, and justice and righteousness shall be the basis of all action.

1868 — From the Charter Oath of 1868.
Controversial Unverifiable

We will establish a parliament, and decide all things by public discussion.

1868 — From the Charter Oath of 1868, though the actual parliamentary system evolved gradually and with lim…
Controversial Unverifiable

It is Our wish that Our people, without distinction of class or calling, should all be loyal to the Imperial House and zealous in the discharge of their duties.

1890 — From the Imperial Rescript on Education, promulgated in his name, though written by others.
Controversial Unverifiable

Should emergency arise, offer yourselves courageously to the State; and thus guard and maintain the prosperity of Our Imperial Throne coeval with heaven and earth.

1890 — From the Imperial Rescript on Education, fostering nationalism and loyalty.
Controversial Unverifiable

The prosperity of the country depends on the strength of its military.

Late 19th - early 20th century — Attributed saying, reflecting the emphasis on military modernization during his reign.
Controversial Unverifiable

We desire to promote friendly relations with all nations, and to extend Our commerce throughout the world.

Late 19th century — General sentiment of Japan's foreign policy during the Meiji era, though often accompanied by aggres…
Controversial Unverifiable

It is essential that Our subjects be instructed in the principles of morality and loyalty.

Late 19th century — Reflecting the government's efforts to instill a specific moral code in the populace.
Controversial Unverifiable

The spirit of bushido must be preserved and strengthened.

Late 19th century — Attributed saying, referring to the samurai code of conduct, which was reinterpreted and promoted du…
Controversial Unverifiable

We shall adopt the best features of foreign civilization to strengthen Our nation.

Mid-late 19th century — A core principle of the Meiji Restoration, emphasizing selective Westernization.
Controversial Unverifiable

The strength of Japan lies in the unity of its people and the devotion to the Imperial House.

Late 19th century — A recurring theme in pronouncements during his reign, emphasizing nationalism and imperial loyalty.
Controversial Unverifiable

Education is the foundation of national prosperity.

Late 19th century — Attributed saying, reflecting the significant educational reforms undertaken during his era.
Controversial Unverifiable