Rikyu Hyakushu (The One Hundred Poems of Rikyu)
A compilation of the spirit and etiquette of the Japanese Tea Ceremony, written in the form of traditional Waka poetry.
While attributed to Sen no Rikyu—the founding father of Japanese Tea Ceremony—this collection actually synthesizes key teachings handed down by Rikyu himself, his disciples, and centuries of oral tradition. The movement to consolidate these scattered lessons into a single, comprehensive text emerged in the 1600s, giving birth to this historic work.
Here is a glimpse into one of its core philosophies:
"To ask is a moment’s shame; not to ask is a lifelong shame."
Asking about something you do not know can feel embarrassing in the moment, but missing the opportunity to learn is a far greater loss. A moment of courage brings a lifetime of insight. Sen no Rikyu reminds us of the importance of staying humble, asking questions openly, and striving to grasp the true essence of things.
The teachings of the Tea Ceremony remain an indispensable guide for Japanese culture. By exploring the wisdom of Sen no Rikyu, you gain a powerful window into the core values and mindset that Japanese people hold dear.
A compilation of the spirit and etiquette of the Japanese Tea Ceremony, written in the form of traditional Waka poetry.
While attributed to Sen no Rikyu—the founding father of Japanese Tea Ceremony—this collection actually synthesizes key teachings handed down by Rikyu himself, his disciples, and centuries of oral tradition. The movement to consolidate these scattered lessons into a single, comprehensive text emerged in the 1600s, giving birth to this historic work.
Here is a glimpse into one of its core philosophies:
"To ask is a moment’s shame; not to ask is a lifelong shame."
Asking about something you do not know can feel embarrassing in the moment, but missing the opportunity to learn is a far greater loss. A moment of courage brings a lifetime of insight. Sen no Rikyu reminds us of the importance of staying humble, asking questions openly, and striving to grasp the true essence of things.
The teachings of the Tea Ceremony remain an indispensable guide for Japanese culture. By exploring the wisdom of Sen no Rikyu, you gain a powerful window into the core values and mindset that Japanese people hold dear.