'Even the judgement of hell depends on money'

"地獄の沙汰も金次第" (Jigoku no sata mo kane shidai)Literal translation: "Even the judgement of hell depends on money." At first glance, the saying sounds almost absurd. How could money matter in hell, a place where souls are judged according to their deeds? Yet that contradiction is exactly what gives the proverb its power. It suggests that if wealth can influence even the most sacred and impartial judgement imaginable, then it can influence almost anything in the world of the living. Centuries after it first appeared in Japan, the proverb remains surprisingly relevant. Whether it is politics, healthcare, legal battles, education or social status, the uncomfortable relationship between money and power continues to spark debate around the world.

What does the proverb mean?

The phrase "地獄の沙汰も金次第" literally translates to "Even the judgement of hell depends on money." The key word here is "沙汰" (sata). In this context, it refers to a judgement, verdict or decision. According to Japanese dictionaries, the proverb means that even the judgement handed down in hell could supposedly be influenced by money, making it a metaphor for the idea that wealth often determines outcomes in society. The saying is not intended to be taken literally. Instead, it expresses a deeply cynical observation about human nature. It reflects the belief that money has the power to shape opportunities, influence decisions and alter people's treatment, even where fairness should prevail. It is, in many ways, the Japanese equivalent of the English expression "Money talks."

Where did it come from?

The precise origin of the proverb is unknown. Linguists and historians have not been able to trace it to a single author or historical event. Its imagery, however, comes from traditional Japanese Buddhist beliefs about the afterlife. According to Buddhist folklore, after death a soul crosses the Sanzu River before standing before Enma, the judge of the dead, who decides its fate based on the person's actions during life. The proverb imagines that even this supposedly impartial judgement could somehow be swayed by money. Some scholars also believe the expression reflects real social conditions during Japan's Edo period (1603 to 1868). Historical references suggest it may have been inspired by situations where money affected treatment in prisons, pleasure quarters or even religious institutions through donations and offerings. The proverb therefore carried a note of social criticism rather than religious teaching.

More than a proverb, a social commentary

Unlike many traditional sayings that encourage honesty or perseverance, this one offers no moral lesson. Instead, it asks an uncomfortable question. Can justice ever be truly impartial when wealth exists? That question has echoed throughout history. In every society, people have noticed that those with greater financial resources often enjoy better legal representation, improved education, superior healthcare and greater influence over public life. The proverb captures that reality in a single memorable image. Importantly, it does not celebrate money. It criticises the systems in which money becomes more powerful than fairness.

Why has it survived for centuries?

Many old proverbs disappear because the societies that created them disappear. This one has endured because its central idea remains familiar. Today, discussions about the influence of wealth extend far beyond Japan. Around the world, debates continue over campaign financing, lobbying, unequal access to justice, rising healthcare costs and the widening gap between rich and poor. The proverb does not claim that money controls everything. Rather, it warns that financial power often shapes outcomes more than people would like to admit. That is why it continues to appear in newspapers, books and everyday conversation whenever wealth appears to outweigh principle.

When is it used today?

Modern Japanese speakers often use the expression ironically. For example:

A wealthy defendant hires the country's best legal team.

An expensive university opens doors unavailable to others.

A business deal succeeds because of financial influence rather than merit.

In each case, someone might shrug and say:"地獄の沙汰も金次第." The phrase expresses resignation rather than approval. It acknowledges a reality while quietly questioning whether that reality should exist.

A lesson for modern readers

The proverb is not really about hell. It is about people. It reminds us that societies have long struggled with the tension between justice and wealth. While laws may promise equality, human institutions are rarely perfect. Financial resources can create advantages, and recognising that fact is often the first step towards addressing inequality. Perhaps that is why this centuries-old Japanese saying still resonates today. It does not offer hope or comfort. Instead, it delivers an observation that feels timeless. Money cannot buy everything. But history has repeatedly shown that it can influence far more than people would like to believe. And that is precisely the uncomfortable truth hidden inside one of Japan's most memorable proverbs.