Book Of Tea; Author: Okakura, Kakuzo; Introduction: Hamill, Sam; Paperback

Author: Okakura, Kakuzo; Introduction: Hamill, Sam
Shambhala Classics; Paperback; Photographs
112 pages
Published: August 2001
Shambhala Publications
ISBN: 1570628289

The Book of Tea has been enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of readers since it was first published in 1906. This modern classic celebrates the culture of tea as a potent symbol of the simplicity and serenity of the Asian aesthetic. Tea was first used as a medicine and an alchemical elixir by the ancient Chinese Taoists, who praised its spiritual powers. Buddhist monks made drinking tea part of a sacrament honoring the founder of Zen; this ritual later culminated in the perfection of the Japanese tea ceremony. The Book of Tea describes the rich aesthetic of Asian culture through the history, philosophy, and practice of tea.The tranquility and beauty of traditional Japanese culture - a mere cup of tea away. This title invites the reader to discover a tradition that symbolizes wisdom, beauty and the elegant simplicity of Asian culture. The author celebrates tea from its ancient origins in Chinese Taoism to its culmination in Zen discipline - the Japanese tea ceremony.