This heartfelt ode to the meditative practice of drinking tea examines the origins of traditional tea culture in the East, revealing how a good cuppa can elevate both the mind and spirit Traditionally in China and Japan, drinking a cup of tea was an opportunity for contemplation, meditation, and an elevation of mind and spirit. Here, renowned translator William Scott Wilson distills what is singular and precious about this traditional tea culture, and he explores the fascinating connection between Zen and tea drinking. He unpacks the most common phrases from Zen and Chinese philosophy—usually found in Asia printed on hanging scrolls in tea rooms, restaurant alcoves, family rooms, and martial arts dojos—that have traditionally served as points of contemplation to encourage the appropriate atmosphere for drinking tea or silent meditation. Part history, part philosophy, part inspirational guide, The One Taste of Truth will connect you to the distinctive pleasure of sipping tea and allowing it to transport your mind and thoughts. This beautifully written book will appeal to tea lovers and anyone interested in tea culture, Chinese philosophy, and Zen.

ウィリアム・スコット・ウィルソンによる本作は、単なる茶の歴史書ではなく、一杯の茶の中に宇宙を見出すための極めて瞑想的な手引書です。禅と茶が溶け合う「茶禅一味」の境地を、名翻訳家ならではの端正な筆致で描き出しており、読者は文字を追うごとに、静寂に満ちた茶室の瑞々しい空気感に包まれていくでしょう。 特に秀逸なのは、茶席の掛け軸に記された禅語の深層を解き明かす圧倒的な洞察力です。歴史と哲学が交錯する言葉の奥底には、日常の喧騒を離れて自己を研ぎ澄ますための智恵が宿っています。本書は、忙しない現代を生きる私たちの精神を静かに浄化し、魂をより高い次元へと導いてくれる至高の知的贅沢と言える一冊です。