The Book of Tea · Question
How does The Book of Tea develop the theme of Influence of Taoism and Zennism?
Answer
The Book of Tea by Okakura Kakuzō develops Influence of Taoism and Zennism across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Taoist and Zen philosophies deeply inform Teaism, emphasizing the relativity of good and evil, the beauty of impermanence, and the art of living through constant readjustment to the present moment.
Luwuh's predilection for Taoist symbolism is noted, and the chapter concludes that 'Teaism was Taoism in disguise.' The Sung Zen school spread tea ritual to Japan.
The chapter details how Taoism provided the aesthetic ideals and Zennism made them practical, forming the basis of Teaism.
The tearoom's design—its emptiness, asymmetry, and emphasis on process over perfection—derives from Taoist and Zen ideals; the roji symbolizes the first stage of meditation.
Evidence in the book
- The Schools of Tea
Luwuh's predilection for Taoist symbolism is noted, and the chapter concludes that 'Teaism was Taoism in disguise.' The Sung Zen school spread tea ritual to Japan.
- Taoism and Zennism
The chapter details how Taoism provided the aesthetic ideals and Zennism made them practical, forming the basis of Teaism.
- The Tearoom
The tearoom's design—its emptiness, asymmetry, and emphasis on process over perfection—derives from Taoist and Zen ideals; the roji symbolizes the first stage of meditation.
