Wondering where the name of the \u4e0a\u667a\u6a4b comes from? Let’s uncover its story.
\u4e0a\u667a\u6a4b is located in Shibuya Ward Tokyo. Specifically, it’s in Higashi 2-chome. Keep in mind that the location is closer to the west.
\u4e0a\u667a\u6a4b is a bridge. It crosses the Shibuya River. The bridge is near Ebisu Station. It is about an eight-minute walk from the station’s east exit.
The name \u4e0a\u667a refers to Sophia University. The Japanese term \u4e0a\u667a means “higher wisdom”. It can also mean “supreme wisdom”. In Latin, this is sapientia.
Sapientia is a devotional title. It refers to the Blessed Virgin Mary. She is “the Seat of Wisdom”. Joseph Eylenbosch taught Greek at the university. He thought \u4e0a\u667a was like the Greek word sofia. Students then suggested the school be called Sophia University.
Fr. Hermann Hoffmann was the University President. At first, he did not like the idea. But he later agreed. He sent the proposal to Rome for approval.
In 1938, the journal Monumenta Nipponica was published. It was from Sophia University. Sophia became the established name. This was both in Japan and overseas.
Sophia University has a long history. It started with St. Francis Xavier. He arrived in Japan in 1549. He wanted to start a university.
The university was not established until much later. In 1903, three Jesuit priests came from Europe. They wanted to continue missionary work. They also wanted to help establish Sophia University.
Fr. Joseph Dahlmann listened to Catholics in Japan. They wanted a Catholic university. It would be a base for the Church’s work in Japan. Dahlmann sent a proposal to Pope Pius X. In 1905, the Pope promised to assign the Society of Jesus to create the university.
That same year, William H. O’Connell was sent to Japan. He was a special ambassador from the Vatican. He surveyed the situation. He reported on the possibility of a Catholic university.
In 1906, Pius X told the Jesuits to establish the university. The delegates voted in favor. Concrete steps were taken.
Sophia University was founded in 1913. It opened with departments of German Literature Philosophy and Commerce. Fr. Hermann Hoffmann was the first president.
\u4e0a\u667a\u6a4b is not just a way to cross the river. It is a reminder of Sophia University’s dedication to knowledge. It is a link between faith and learning.
So next time you cross \u4e0a\u667a\u6a4b take a moment. Reflect on the wisdom it represents.