In our final installment of timeless tea quotes, we continue to explore the profound teachings that resonate with the serene practice of tea drinking. These quotes from classical Chinese philosophy offer deep insights into living authentically and simply, enriching your tea ceremonies with RAF Lifestyle’s exquisite ceramics.
Sunset High Footed Bowl
1. Picking Chrysanthemums
“Picking chrysanthemums beneath the eastern hedge, I look leisurely out at the southern mountains.”
「采菊东南下，悠然见南山」
This quote describes man in his happiest natural state, perfectly capturing the tranquility and simplicity of a tea ceremony.
2. Melting Snow and Clear Skies
“When the snow melts, the mountain peaks appear; when the sun comes out, the sea and sky are clear.”
「雪消山岳露，日出海天清」
Throwing away desires and illusions allows our true nature to appear, a concept that aligns with the clarity sought in tea ceremonies.
3. No Place for Fear
“No place for fear.”
「无畏处」
When the mind and faith are secure and firm, any place is the Pure Land. This Buddhist teaching encourages fearlessness, a mindset that enhances the peace of tea rituals.
Handmade Retro Ru Kiln Ivory White Master Teacup
4. Fundamentally Not One Thing
“Fundamentally, not one thing exists.”
「本来无一物」
This Zen teaching establishes the foundation of true understanding, free from grasping and attachment, an ideal state for tea ceremonies.
5. Form is Emptiness
“Form is exactly emptiness; emptiness is exactly form.”
「色即是空，空即是色」
The essence of the Heart Sutra, this teaching is recited daily by monks and nuns, cleansing the mind of deluded thoughts and enhancing the mindfulness of
tea drinking.
6. Act Without Fabrication
“Act without fabrication; do the job without meddling; experience the delicious without tasting.”
「为无为，事无事，味无味」
This teaching encourages living lightly and without self-consciousness, a principle that aligns with the simplicity of a tea ceremony.
Artisan Jingdezhen Hand-Painted Monet/Morandi Inspired Green Glaze Ceramic Gaiwan
7. The Mind and Circumstances
“The Mind moves and revolves, following every circumstance.”
「心随万境转」
A free and unstuck mind is essential for the spontaneity required in Zen and tea ceremonies, fostering adaptability and presence.
8. White Clouds
“White clouds going and coming.”
「白云去来」
Like clouds moving across the sky, the mind should be left to its own nature, unobstructed, a state that enhances the purity of tea rituals.
9. A Good Thing
“A good thing is not as good as nothing at all.”
「好事不如无」
This teaching cautions against attachment and desire, encouraging a non-discriminatory perception that enhances the mindfulness of tea drinking.
10. Unmovable Character
“Though the eight winds blow, he is not moved.”
「八风吹不动」
This teaching highlights the resolute and single-minded character that is essential in maintaining a calm and balanced mind, a principle that enriches the practice of tea ceremonies.
