Jan

29

Simplicity and Sincerity

January 29, 2008 |

chawan.jpg

Black Raku tea bowl by Chojiro (1500’s)

Sen no Rikyū (1522–1591) is considered the most influential figure on the Japanese way of tea, particularly the tradition of wabi-cha (tea of simplicity and sincerity). He considered the ritual of preparing and serving tea an opportunity to experience the essence of life, a moment to transcend everyday reality and be absolutely present with yourself and others. I came across a great story about Rikyū in the book Liquid Jade. It perfectly illustrates the essential spirit of the tea ceremony (Chanoyu), but is definitely applicable to all areas of life.

Once a tea grower invited Rikyū to have tea. Overwhelmed with joy at Rikyū’s acceptance, the tea grower led him to the tearoom and served tea to Rikyū himself. However, in his exitement his hand trembled and he performed badly, dropping the tea scoop and knocking the tea whisk over. The other guests, disciples of Rikyū, snickered at the tea grower’s manner of making tea, but Rikyū was moved to say, “It was the finest.”

On the way home, one of the disciples asked Rikyū, “Why were you so impressed by such a shameful performance?” Rikyū answered, “This man did not invite me with the idea of showing off his skill. He simply wanted to serve me tea with his whole heart. He devoted himself completely to making a bowl of tea for me, not worrying about errors. I was struck by that sincerity.”

- James


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2 Comments so far

  1. Alia on January 31, 2008 9:54 am

    Loved this story!

  2. jb on January 31, 2008 10:43 am

    Alia, glad to you know you enjoyed that story and thanks for checking in!