Itadakimasu and Gochisousama

When I think about the meaning of these phrases, it makes me feel warm and fuzzy. The literal meaning of itadakimasu is “to be given”. The word belongs to a group of honorific terms known as kenjo-go. These terms are used to address people who are of a higher ranking than oneself. Itadakimasu originated from the action of being given food from a person of a higher rank or getting food from offerings. It also has a meaning of giving thanks to nature and to the people who have given the food to you. In a way, it is about appreciating the life of plants and animals, and also being thankful to the people who prepared and cooked your food.