[27] Or, “like the flame of a lamp exposed to the wind.” A frequent expression in Buddhist literature is “the Wind of Death.” 32.—_Issun no mushi ni mo, gobu no tamashii._ Even a worm an inch long has a soul half-an-inch long.[28] [28] Literally, “has a soul of five _bu_,”—five _bu_ being equal to half of the Japanese inch. Buddhism forbids all taking of life, and classes as _living_ things (_Ujō_) all forms having sentiency. The proverb, however,—as the use of the word “soul” (_tamashii_) implies,—reflects popular belief rather than Buddhist philosophy. It signifies that any life, however small or mean, is entitled to mercy. 33.—_Iwashi[29] no atama mo shinjin kara._ Even the head of an _iwashi_, by virtue of faith, [will have power to save, or heal]. [29] The _iwashi_ is a very small fish, much resembling a sardine. The proverb implies that the object of worship signifies little, so long as the prayer is made with perfect faith and pure intention. 34.—_Jigō-jitoku._[30] The fruit of ones own deeds [in a previous state of existence]. [30] Few popular Buddhist phrases are more often used than this. _Jigō_ signifies ones own acts or thoughts; _jitoku_, to bring upon oneself,—nearly always in the sense of misfortune, when the word is used in the Buddhist way. “Well, it is a matter of _Jigō-jitoku_,” people will observe on seeing a man being taken to prison; meaning, “He is reaping the consequence of his own faults.” 35.—_Jigoku dé hotoké._ Like meeting with a Buddha in hell.[31] [31] Refers to the joy of meeting a good friend in time of misfortune. The above is an abbreviation. The full proverb is, _Jigoku dé hotoké hotoke ni ōta yo da_. 36.—_Jigoku Gokuraku wa kokoro ni ari._ Hell and Heaven are in the hearts of men.[32] [32] A proverb in perfect accord with the higher Buddhism. 37.—_Jigoku mo sumika._ Even Hell itself is a dwelling-place.[33] [33] Meaning that even those obliged to live in hell must learn to accommodate themselves to the situation. One should always try to make the best of circumstances. A proverb of kindred signification is, _Sumeba, Miyako:_ “Wheresoever ones home is, that is the Capital [or, imperial City].” 38.—_Jigoku ni mo shiru bito._ Even in hell old acquaintances are welcome. 39.—_Kagé no katachi ni shitagau gotoshi._ Even as the shadow follows the shape.[34] [34] Referring to the doctrine of cause-and-effect. Compare with verse 2 of the _Dhammapada_. 40.—_Kané wa Amida yori bikaru._ Money shines even more brightly than Amida.[35] [35] Amitâbha, the Buddha of Immeasurable Light. His image in the temples is usually gilded from head to foot.—There are many other ironical proverbs about the power of wealth,—such as _Jigoku no sata mo kané shidai:_ “Even the Judgments of Hell may be influenced by money.” 41.—_Karu-toki no Jizō-gao; nasu-toki no Emma-gao._ Borrowing-time, the face of Jizō; repaying-time, the face of Emma.[36]