An Introduction to the World of Tea

On the 15th of July the Chinese Tea Culture Experience was held in the Fo Guang Yuan Art gallery Christchurch.  Vicky Han introduced 4 participants to the taste and culture of Chinese tea.  In the calm and peaceful environment, the participants experienced a dialogue between tea and Chan.

Mainland China is the origin of tea, and tea plays an important part in people’s days and is viewed as one of the 7 necessities of life.  Legend has it that Bodhidharma, the Founder of the Chan Buddhism in China, had created a tea tree with his cut off eyelids when he was tired and could not keep his eyes open.  His followers later used the leaves from that tree to brew a drink when they feel tired in meditation, in order to stay more alert.  While it was a story, it illustrates that Buddhism and temples have a certain influence in the popularity of tea drinking in China.

In this tea experience, participants tasted Taiwanese teas from Lishan and Sun Moon Lake, and traditional snacks often enjoyed with tea.  From getting the tea out, inspecting, brewing and serving tea, the lightness and pureness of tea and the peace and tranquility of Chan mold seamlessly together.  The tea is part of life, and through tea and living, it is possible for one to attain awakening.

Susannah was one of the participants who brought her friend.  She felt that the tea introduction was a feast for all senses, and at the same time experience the tea culture and enjoy being at peace through introspection.