Daruma dolls are symbols of good luck and fortune and tenacity and perseverance. They are modelled after the Bodhidharma, who in lore is said to have meditated for nine years straight until his arms and legs and eyelids fell off. (Yikes! This explains the round shape of the dolls.)
When you first get the dolls, their eyes are blank. They often have fierce, determined expressions. Make a wish or a goal, and then color one eye. By giving the doll the first eye, you’re promising to follow your goal. When the wish comes true or you achieve the goal, color in the other eye. This represents enlightenment. The doll’s rounded shape represents resilience and tenacity; when you fall, you roll right back up. Daruma represent focus and discipline and serve as a physical reminder of your goals and the ganbaru spirit (the ability to persevere).
Daruma dolls are traditionally red, but now come in other colors. You can pick them by your favorite color, or you can use the colors to represent specific goals.
Red: Good luck
Purple: Good health
Gold: Prosperity
Black: Success in business
White: Peace