I would like to discuss the relationship between shrine visits and the tea ceremony. When visiting a shrine, there are certain rituals to follow, which can vary slightly between shrines. A common example is the practice of “two bows, two claps, and one bow” (ni rei ni hakushu ippai). Many people participate in this ritual without fully understanding its meaning, simply because it is customary.

The number of claps can vary by shrine, so I will refer to the generally accepted count here. But what is the purpose of clapping? Many people perform it without knowing the reason—it’s just something they do because everyone else does it, or because it’s considered a proper form of worship.

Every form (kata) has a “heart” behind it, and there is indeed a significant meaning behind the act of clapping during a shrine visit. When you clap, the sound resonates and creates ripples in the air. Although invisible, this sound transmits “vibrations” throughout the space.

In modern terms, we might refer to this as “vibration.” The time flowing within the shrine grounds, the stones and trees, and the air we breathe are all inhabited by spirits and deities. By clapping, the sound stimulates these spirits, prompting them to respond as if to say, “Did someone call for us?”

The bells found at shrines serve a similar purpose—they act as a sort of “doorbell” for the gods. Thus, when we call upon the gods and spirits through sound, it results in their awakening.

Shinto places great importance on the resonance of sound. It is through these vibrations that we summon the divine. This concept can be likened to remnants of shamanism found in other cultures. For instance, when Amaterasu (the sun goddess) hid in the cave, the goddess Ame-no-Uzume danced, causing other gods to clap in joy. This commotion prompted Amaterasu to peek outside, ultimately leading her to emerge from her hiding place.

During purification rituals at shrines, the sounds of drums, traditional music (gagaku), and the bells carried by priestesses all work together to stimulate and awaken the spirits and deities through their resonant sounds. The heart that accompanies these sounds plays a vital role.

Ultimately, even if one does not know the meaning behind clapping, adhering to these rituals ensures that the gods will still respond. By maintaining the form (kata), one can grasp its essence. This principle of ritual applies similarly in tea ceremonies.

The art of tea, whether it be sencha or matcha, also has its own set of rituals. Many of these practices have been passed down through generations since the inception of tea culture. Often, participants are not explicitly taught the meaning behind each step; rather, personal insight becomes paramount.

The rituals embody the spirit of hospitality that has been cultivated since ancient times. Through these practices, we welcome our guests and partake in tea. This process fosters a sense of tranquility that enriches our daily lives.

So whom do we truly offer our hospitality to? In serving tea, we recognize and honor the divine aspect within each individual present. What do we receive? Alongside drinking matcha, we also receive the awakened divine presence within that space.

The tea ceremony allows us to connect with deities and Buddhas. This connection can be observed in the life and death of Sen no Rikyū, who exemplified this unity between tea and spirituality.

One need not understand every intricate detail; by mimicking the forms (kata) of tea ceremony rituals, individuals will eventually arrive at a deeper understanding. The phrase “tea and zen are one” signifies that there is no distinction between tea ceremony and Zen Buddhism concerning human development.

Both practices encourage us to reflect on our true selves—our inherent divinity (referred to as “Buddha nature” in Buddhism). This divine aspect resides within everyone but often becomes obscured over time.

Thus, tea practitioners or hosts strive to awaken their guests’ divine essence through sound during tea gatherings. In some schools, a small gong is even employed for this purpose.

Tea ceremony and shrine visits are not unrelated; rather, through these rituals, a tea room can transform into a sacred space akin to that of a shrine.

Historically, tea ceremony has served as a sanctuary for mental peace and reflection. When grappling with life’s challenges, consider seeking solace in tea. You may find a more authentic version of yourself and create cherished moments with loved ones.

Matcha consumed during tea ceremonies is a mysterious beverage that has the potential to change one’s life.