A Ceremony Of Release: Japanese Incense Ceremony

There are many spiritual customs, traditions and ceremonies that utilize incense in a meaningful way. Often the use of incense in various ceremonies denotes the prayers or meditations of an individual.

One of those cultures that intertwines their believes and practices with incense is the Japanese culture. Therefore, if choosing to use incense for various meditative, regenerative or spiritual exercises, it may be meaningful to look at one particular Japanese incense ceremony. That particular Japanese incense ceremony is known as the Kodo ceremony.

Therefore, it is important to know what is the Kodo or Japanese incense ceremony is and the purpose of this ceremony.

What Is The Kodo?

One of the long-standing Japanese incense ceremonies is the incense ceremony known as Kodo. This ceremony dates back to the 14th or 15th century. In addition, Kodo literally means the way of incense or the appreciation of incense.

The actual ceremony involves a number of people gathering together in one area. Generally, the number of people involved ranges from 10 to 15 people. In addition, a person is selected to keep the score. The game evolves as the Kodo incense holder releases the incense into the air. Then, each individual involved in the ceremony enjoys the aroma that is released from the burning incense. As the Kodo cup is passed around from individual to individual in the room, their reflections of the aroma are captured on the score sheet.

Following this step the observations as recorded score sheets and then blended together to relate a story using these observations. These stories can be ones of travel or these observations can be used to comprise a poem.

Purpose Of The Incense

There are many functions associated with this Japanese incense ceremony. Some of those other functions of the ceremony include an opportunity to for people to gather together, a way of relating a story and also an appreciation of the incense that is used in this Japanese incense ceremony. Specifically that incense used is called aloeswood.

The ultimate purpose of indulging in this Japanese incense ceremony is for the individual to release their stresses of the day through the enjoyment of the beautiful fragrances of the various types of incense. In addition it is a powerful way to socialize with other individuals.

In order to participate in this ceremony it is not necessary to purchase or utilize the best Japanese incense available. However, the product chosen should be of sufficient quality to allow for the release of wonderful aromas.