Zen & the Japanese Arts
Soon after its arrival in Japan, Zen Buddhism began to have a strong influence on the development of Japanese culture, and it eventually became part of Japan’s spiritual and aesthetic foundation.
Through the practice of various Japanese arts, many of the moral and spiritual values of Zen were taught and transmitted in Japan.
During Japan’s long periods of self-imposed isolation, art forms developed in ways that were specifically Japanese, and many of these art forms were strongly influenced by Zen Buddhism.
Spiritual Disciplines
All Japanese art forms, such as chado (tea ceremony), ikebana (flower arrangement), shodo (calligraphy) and even martial arts were greatly influenced by the unique philosophy of Zen. These art forms were transformed by Zen into a spiritual discipline focused on calmness, simplicity, and self-growth.
In Japan, there is a tradition of studying art not only for art’s sake but also for spiritual purposes. When practiced with Zen principles in mind, art can be a peaceful journey and a way of self-cultivation leading to calmness, serenity, and concentration.
The teaching of Zen concerning the arts focuses on the importance of mind/body unity, which is essential for the mastery of every art. While practicing art with a Zen attitude, the mind remains in the now, being fully aware of the illusory nature of material life.
It is probably accurate to say that without Zen, Japan would likely have never reached its high level of refinement and cultivation in the arts.
Zen aesthetic or wabi-sabi
Even if Zen was originally imported from China, its sense of aesthetics is strongly distinct from Chinese ideas of beauty. Zen has a unique aesthetic, which includes a great appreciation for moderation, asymmetry, imperfection, rusticity, and naturalness.
This Zen aesthetic concept is called Wabi-sabi, and it sees beauty in things that are imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete. In art, Wabi-sabi is manifested in modest, humble, unpretentious and earthy artworks.
Wabi-Sabi is genuine, humble, and is deeply associated with love for nature. The Wabi-Sabi values of rusticity, elegance, quiet taste and refined beauty have been inspiring Japanese artists for centuries, and artists continue to be inspired by these values to this day.
Zen & harmony with Nature
Japanese culture has a harmonious relationship with nature. Harmony with nature is an important value in Shintoism, the native religion of Japan, and this value has been enhanced and given a deeper meaning by Zen Buddhism.
Zen deeply respects nature and considers it sacred. It does not try to manage or control nature; but instead, Zen is manifested in a profound spiritual bond with nature. This can be observed in various Japanese art forms, and it is particularly noticeable when looking at Zen gardens.
If you ever travel to Japan one day, you’ll be amazed at the way Japanese people value nature and respect it. They know that man must have a harmonious relationship with nature for Zen values to flourish. Harmony with nature means that both man and nature live together as one, and are accepting of each other’s power. Zen allows a practical resolution of contradictions.
Learn more about travelling to Japan: Japan National Tourism OrganizationZen & martial arts
