08.19
Photo
Credit: Charlotte May@pexels.com
The
Japanese tea ceremony, known as “sadō/chadō” or "chanoyu,” is a profound
cultural practice that transcends the mere act of drinking tea. Rooted in the
philosophy of Zen Buddhism, Japanese culture and spirit are woven into every
aspect of tea ceremony etiquette.
At
its core, the Japanese tea ceremony is not just about enjoying a cup of tea but
also about appreciating the beauty of simplicity, mindfulness, and life. The
ceremony is often held in a special tea room, a pure space designed to foster a
sense of tranquility and mindfulness. The architectural elements and seasonal
decorations within the room play an important role in creating an atmosphere
that complements the tea-drinking experience. The tea room welcomes guests by
being decorated with hanging scrolls and seasonal flowers and plants.
A
typical example of a Chinese character phrase often used in hanging scrolls is
wa kei sei jaku,” meaning harmony, respect, purity, and solitude, representing
an atmosphere of respect and harmony between host and guests. Silence is often
maintained during the ceremony, allowing guests to enjoy subtle sounds such as
the rustling of the tea whisk or the quiet pouring of water.
During
a tea ceremony, the main activities are observing “teishu” (the host) make tea,
eating Japanese sweets, and drinking powdered green tea. Every gesture has a
deep meaning, from the way the host purifies their utensils to the direction
they turn to leave and how they present the tea bowl.
In
the tea ceremony, there is a moment when “chashaku” (the tea scoop) and
“chaire” (the tea caddy, a container for powdered green tea) are wiped with a
silk cloth called "fukusa." This act is not about cleaning due to
dirt but rather symbolizes purification. In reality, it may seem unnecessary,
wasteful, and inefficient. However, it is done to welcome and treat guests to
the fullest extent. Throughout the tea ceremony, the host may leave the tea
room several times. Typically, the host avoids showing their back to the guests
when moving around or exiting, but when leaving with a water container called
“kensui,” the host deliberately turns their back. This is because the water in
the container is not pristine after being used, so the host turns away from the
guests' view. Tea bowls usually have a distinguishable front and back, and when
serving the bowl, it is placed in such a way that the front faces the guest.
When
a guest, on the other hand, is about to drink tea, they pick up the tea bowl,
presented with the bowl’s front facing them, they should turn it twice in their
hands, and then begin to sip. This gesture is a consideration to avoid placing
their mouth directly on the depicted scene on the front of the bowl. In this
way, the Japanese tea ceremony is a culture that fosters a sense of respect for
everything and everyone present, transcending the immediate participants—both
the host and the guest—making it an enjoyable experience that values
mindfulness and appreciation for all aspects, including those not physically
present.
We,
modern people, are sometimes so engulfed in the hustle of our daily lives that
we do not have time to relax, enjoy time, and reflect on our own lives.
However, I believe that occasionally participating in a tea ceremony can
provide a precious opportunity to sense that we are living together in a vast
world.
Blog
Quiz
1
What is the significance of turning the tea bowl twice in the hands before
sipping tea?
a)
It adds a decorative element to the ceremony.
b)
It prevents spillage.
c)
It avoids placing the mouth directly on the depicted scene.
d)
It follows a specific dance routine.
2
Why does the host turn their back when leaving with a water container called
Kensui?
a)
To show disrespect to the guests.
b)
To hide the water container.
c)
To demonstrate efficiency.
d)
To maintain purity in the water container.
3
What does the act of wiping the tea scoop and tea caddy symbolize during the
ceremony?
a)
Cleaning due to dirt.
b)
Aesthetic decoration.
c)
Symbolic purification.
d)
Expressing efficiency.
Scroll
down to see the answers below.
Answers:
1. C
2. B
3. C