Japanese Tea Ceremony Master Sen Genshitsu dies today at the age of 102.

Sen Genshitsu, worldwide acclaimed as the Master of Japanese Tea Ceremony, revered for his pursuit for world peace through the art (Tea Making), has been called to glory today, the tea ceremony school he formerly headed said. He was 102.

Sen Genshitsu, a former grand master of Urasenke, one of the top three schools of Arts in Japan, was recruited to the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War and trained to be a Kamikaze Pilot but was decommissioned following Japan’s defeat.

After visiting the United States in 1951 to introduce tea ceremony, he traveled to more than 60 countries to convey his philosophy of “peacefulness through a bowl of tea”.

The Japanese tea ceremony, also known as “chanoyu” or “chado”, is a cultural activity involving the ceremonial preparation and presentation of matcha (powdered green tea). It’s a highly ritualised process that emphasises harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. Beyond just drinking tea, it’s a spiritual practice that cultivates mindfulness and appreciation for the present moment.

Core Principles of a Tea Ceremony–

• Wa (Harmony): Creating a harmonious environment and relationship between the host and guests.

• Kei (Respect): Showing respect for each other, the tea utensils, and the space.

• Sei (Purity): Maintaining physical and spiritual cleanliness.

• Jaku (Tranquility): Achieving a state of calm and serenity.

Key Constituents of the Tea Making:

• Matcha: Finely ground powdered green tea, whisked with hot water.

• Chawan: The bowl in which the tea is prepared and served.

• Chakin: The linen cloth used to wipe the Chawan.

• Natsume: The container for the matcha.

• Chashaku: The bamboo scoop used to transfer matcha from the natsume to the Chawan.

• Chasen: The bamboo whisk used to blend the matcha and water.

• Kensui: The waste water receptacle.

• Kama: The iron kettle for heating the water.

• Furo: The portable brazier for heating the water.

• Wagashi: Japanese sweets served to complement the bitterness of the tea.

The Japanese Tea Ceremony is of Two Types –

• Chakai: It is a ceremony of informal gathering, often focused on a single bowl of tea.

• Chaji: A formal ceremony that includes a full meal (kaiseki) and multiple servings of tea.

The Japanese tea ceremony is more than just drinking tea; it’s a practice that fosters mindfulness, respect, and an appreciation for the present moment. It embodies principles of ‘wabi-sabi’, finding beauty in imperfection and impermanence. It has been influenced by Zen Buddhism and plays a significant role in Japanese culture and etiquette.

Team Maverick