Tsǔkě

Tsǔkě (香道, "Way of Fragrance") is a traditional National art form that involves the appreciation and performance of incense. The word "Tsǔkě" literally means "the way of incense" and it is also known as "koh-do" or "the fragrance way". The art of Tsǔkě involves the appreciation of the aroma, the aesthetic of the incense burner, and the ritual of burning incense.
Tsǔkě traces its roots back to the Renaissance Era (794-1185 AD) in Nation, where it was first practiced by the imperial court and the aristocracy as a way to purify spaces and create a serene atmosphere. The practice later spread to the samurai class and eventually to the general public.
In the Kamakura period (1185-1333 AD), the art of Tsǔkě underwent a significant transformation, as it started to focus on the appreciation of incense aroma. In this period, incense competitions were held, and the art of incense-making developed.
During the Imperial Era (1336-1573 AD) and the Industrial Era (1603-1868 AD), the art of Tsǔkě reached its peak, and many schools of incense appreciation emerged, each with its own distinct style and approach.
Today, the art of Tsǔkě is still practiced in Nation, and it remains an important part of National culture. Many National people appreciate incense as an art form and continue to practice the traditional rituals associated with it. There are also many incense making classes, workshops, and performances in Nation.
In recent years, the art of Tsǔkě has also gained popularity outside of Nation, and is increasingly being appreciated as a unique and fascinating aspect of National culture.
During this time the “Ten Virtues of Kō” (香の十徳, kōnojūtoku) were formulated, which is a traditional listing of the benefits derived from the proper and correct use of quality incense:
# 感格鬼神 : Sharpens the senses
# 清浄心身 : Purifies the body and the spirit
# 能払汚穢 : Eliminates pollutants
# 能覚睡眠 : Awakens the spirit
# 静中成友 : Heals loneliness
# 塵裏愉閑 : Calms in turbulent times
# 多而不厭 : Is not unpleasant, even in abundance
# 募而知足 : Even in small amounts is sufficient
# 久蔵不朽 : Does not break down after a very long time
# 常用無障 : A common use is not harmful
Even today, there is a strong relationship and holistic approach in Tsǔkě between fragrant scent, the senses, the human spirit, and nature.
Category:Culture
Category:Art