Sensho Tanaka’s Five Theories of Japanese Tea Ceremony

Sensho Tanaka, driven by a desire to revitalize the cultural tradition of the Japanese tea ceremony in modern society, embarked on a mission to reform the means of succession. After immersing himself in the arts and customs of established tea schools, he developed his own unique ideas and concepts that he believed were well-suited for the new era.

In 1898, Sensho Tanaka founded the Dai Nihon Chado Gakkai, simultaneously publishing three volumes of Chado-Kogi to present his innovative ideas and concepts to the public.

In the following sections, we will delve into Sensho’s ideas and concepts, shedding light on their significance:

1. Theory of the Origin of the Japanese Tea Ceremony: Exploring the historical roots and evolution of the tea ceremony.
2. Zen Theory for the Japanese Tea Ceremony: Examining the influence of Zen Buddhism on the tea ceremony and its meditative aspects.
3. Etiquette Theory for the Japanese Tea Ceremony: Unveiling the principles and protocols governing proper conduct during tea ceremonies.
4. Seven-Point Theory of the Japanese Tea Ceremony: Unpacking the seven fundamental aspects essential to the tea ceremony experience.
5. Theory of Flower Coordination for the Japanese Tea Ceremony: Delving into the art of floral arrangement and its role in enhancing the aesthetic ambiance of tea ceremonies.

Through these theories, Sensho Tanaka aimed to breathe new life into the Japanese tea ceremony, infusing it with relevance and adapting it to the changing times. His visionary approach continues to inspire and shape the practice of the tea ceremony to this day.

Theory of the Origin of the Japanese Tea Ceremony

In the realm of the Japanese tea ceremony, Sensho Tanaka observed a troubling tendency where different schools would disparage one another, each claiming to be the sole custodian of the true way. Sensho recognized that the rigid adherence to specific styles and formalities had overshadowed the essence of what the founders of each school had originally envisioned.

Seeking to challenge these narrow-minded notions, Sensho reminded practitioners that during the birth of the Japanese tea ceremony, there were no established schools. He urged them to shift their mindset and embrace a broader perspective.

Under Sensho’s guidance, the Dai Nihon Chado Gakkai has successfully cultivated a distinctive system for the Japanese tea ceremony. However, it continuously emphasizes to its members the importance of avoiding an exclusive mindset tied to specific schools. The organization is committed to upholding Sensho’s creed and ensuring the preservation and perpetuation of his vision for the Japanese tea ceremony.

Zen Theory for the Japanese Tea Ceremony

In his personal journey, Sensho Tanaka discovered firsthand the potential to attain a state of consciousness comparable to that achieved through Zen meditation. Drawing from this profound experience, he put forth the notion that this heightened state of awareness should be a primary objective in the practice of Temae, the art of preparing tea.

Sensho firmly believed that engaging in Temae offered individuals a unique opportunity to introspect and delve into their inner selves. By doing so, they could gain a deeper understanding of the Japanese tea ceremony’s spiritual dimensions and derive genuine enjoyment from its profound essence. Sensho’s conviction in the transformative power of Temae resonates with the Zen philosophy, inviting practitioners to embark on a spiritual journey within the serene realm of the tea ceremony.

Etiquette Theory for the Japanese Tea Ceremony

Sensho Tanaka, drawing inspiration from Confucius’s renowned work, Rai-Ki, formulated his philosophy of courtesy and manners. In his interpretation, he highlighted the significance of etiquette within the Japanese tea ceremony, viewing it not merely as a superficial means of greetings or social interactions, but as a profound expression of human culture.

According to Sensho, the Japanese tea ceremony holds the potential to refine an individual’s character and nurture their moral sensibilities. He regarded this transformative aspect as one of the primary objectives of the tea ceremony. By immersing oneself in the rituals and observances of the ceremony, one can cultivate their personality, elevate their moral compass, and embody the virtues encapsulated within the refined world of tea.

Sensho’s philosophy on etiquette emphasizes the transformative power of the Japanese tea ceremony, transcending mere social conventions to offer a pathway towards personal growth, moral development, and the embodiment of cultural ideals.

Seven-Point Theory of the Japanese Tea Ceremony

Sensho Tanaka discovered a profound connection between the art of making and serving tea and other traditional arts, such as dance, Noh, and Kabuki. Through careful observation and analysis, he identified seven essential elements that permeated these disciplines, serving as fundamental pillars for achieving excellence in the Japanese tea ceremony. Sensho unveiled these elements, known as “Tencha Shichi Yo” (Tencha: making and serving tea, Shichi: seven, Yo: element), during his groundbreaking lecture meetings in 1915.

The Seven Principles are as follows:

1. Established Positioning: Ensuring proper alignment and positioning of the body and utensils, creating a harmonious and balanced environment.
2. Body Formation: Cultivating an attentive and graceful posture, allowing the body to express the elegance and intention of the tea ceremony.
3. Carriage: Mastering graceful movements and gestures, conveying a sense of poise and fluidity throughout the tea ceremony.
4. Continuity in Motion: Maintaining a seamless flow of actions, connecting each step of the tea-making process with grace and precision.
5. Tempo: Striking a balance between efficiency and tranquility, adhering to a rhythmic pace that enhances the atmosphere and contemplative nature of the ceremony.
6. Strength of Body and Limbs: Developing physical strength and control, enabling the practitioner to execute each movement with precision and finesse.
7. Suitable Nobility: Cultivating a demeanor that reflects the dignity, refinement, and spirit of the Japanese tea ceremony.

These Seven Principles, meticulously crafted by Sensho, serve as guiding principles for practitioners seeking to achieve mastery and deep resonance within the Japanese tea ceremony. Each element encapsulates the essence of excellence, ensuring a transformative and profound experience for both participants and observers alike.

Theory of Flower Coordination for the Japanese Tea Ceremony

Flowers hold a significant role within the rich tapestry of the Japanese tea ceremony, serving as symbols of the changing seasons and embodying the essence of natural beauty. Sensho Tanaka, in his influential work “Chabana-Kogiroku” (lectures on flowers for the Japanese tea ceremony) published in 1927, shed light on the profound principles governing the arrangement of flowers in this revered tradition.

According to Sensho, achieving balance is paramount when coordinating flowers in the tea ceremony. It begins with an appreciation of the harmonious relationship between the flowers and their vase, ensuring they complement and enhance one another. Attention is then directed to the height, inclination, and width of the arrangement, each element contributing to the overall visual harmony.

Sensho emphasized that the approach to flower decoration in the Japanese tea ceremony diverges from traditional flower arrangements, where technical prowess and the pursuit of aesthetic perfection take center stage. Instead, the tea ceremony’s floral coordination is guided by a fundamental principle: the importance of balance. Sensho’s teachings underscored the significance of achieving equilibrium among the elements, creating a composition that harmonizes with the serene ambiance of the tea ceremony.

In essence, Sensho’s theory of flower coordination illuminates the transformative power of thoughtfully arranged blooms in the tea ceremony, elevating the experience and evoking a profound sense of seasonal beauty. Through his teachings, practitioners are invited to embrace the delicate dance of balance, uniting nature’s gifts with the contemplative spirit of the Japanese tea ceremony.