The Indian Legend of Tea Discovery
Tea is an important part of Indian culture and is not just a drink but it also stands for hospitality, culture and health. Of all the tales about the origin of tea, one of the most fascinating ones has to do with Bodhidharma; an ancient Indian monk who is generally credited with discovering it.
The Legend of Bodhidharma
Who was Bodhidharma?
Bodhidharma was a Buddhist monk who lived
around 5th or 6th century CE (ancient India). This founder of Zen Buddhism is
commonly depicted as having a stern expression and sporting beard.
Bodhidharma's journey to India
Legend holds that in his quest to spread
Buddhist teachings from his home country, South India to China, Bodhidharma
embarked on a perilous journey. He faced difficult situations during this trip
such as encounters with wild animals and bandits.
How Bodhidharma discovered tea
During his travels, Bodhidharma engaged in
long periods of meditation within hidden caves as well as forests. Tradition
has it that he fell into deep sleep during his meditation at one point. In
order to stay awake and focused on what he was doing, he took several leaves
from some shrubs nearby and chewed them up. To his amazement, the leaves
infused him with renewed energy and clarity of mind.
Tea Discovery of Bodhidharma
Meditation Journey of Bodhidharma
The meditation practices used by
Bodhidharma were a metaphorical mountain range. He went into the mountains and
meditated so long that it took years of solitude to find this state that he
called enlightement.
Bodhidharma’s tea in his meditation practice
Tea became a crucial part of the practice
for Bodhidharma. He found out that caffeine content and other substances
present in tea leaves made him more alert and attentive during the time he was
in meditation.
According to Bodhidharma, Tea had Many Benefits
Bodhidharma praised tea as a great means
to improve concentration, provide mental clarity and refresh our bodies. Spread
among his colleagues –monks –tea soon became the integral element of Buddhist
monasticism.
Expansion of Tea Production and Consumption
How Tea Got to China from India
As Buddhism spread across China from
India, so too did many other beliefs such as those held by Bodhi Dharma
regarding tea. The Chinese accepted tea with open arms making it part of their
daily lives.
Chinese Tea Culture Influenced By What
Bodhi Dharma Discovered About This Beverage
The entry of tea into China is seen as
having been responsible for transforming Chinese society and culture.
Conclusion
The legend of the discovery of tea by
Bodhidharma is proof that one man’s curiosity and willpower can make a deep
impact in the world. By simply chewing the leaves to stay awake, Bodhidharma
inadvertently set off a cultural revolution which still speaks to this day.
FAQs
Is it historically accurate that tea was
discovered by Bodhidharma?
Though no solid historical basis backs up
this legend, it remains a venerated part of Indian and Chinese folklore.
What are some other myths surrounding
tea’s origin?
Different cultures have their own stories
concerning tea, such as Chinese Emperor Shen Nong’s tale or Japanese Eisai Zen
monk saga.
How did tea spread to other parts of the
world?
Tea came to Europe via Portuguese and
Dutch traders during 16th century and became a global phenomenon afterwards.
Can you name some health benefits from
drinking tea?
It is commonly believed that tea has
antioxidant properties; stimulates metabolism; improves heart condition and
helps individuals relax.
Are there different kinds of teas?
Yes, there are several varieties of tea
including black, green, white, oolong and herbal teas each with its peculiar
taste as well as medicinal value.
