A twisting bonsai tree
The practice of bonsai, the art of growing trees on a small scale in a container, dates to the early days of mankind. Patience, nature, discipline and the meaning of life may be found in the work. Does this Spark an idea?
Significance
Developed in China thousands of years ago and perfected in Japan, the art of bonsai quickly became associated with Japanese culture. Much of that has to do with the zen aspect of bonsai -- the practice of zen, like bonsai, originated in China and migrated to Japan -- which emphasizes the simplicity and meditative benefits of nature.
Effects
Zen Buddhism and bonsai are closely related in Japanese culture, as the bonsai is considered a living work of art which reflects the human soul -- meaning that life and the soul are based on simplicity and natural rhythms. "Herbal Bonsai" author Richard W. Bender states that growing bonsai brings forth an understanding of evolution and change within both a plant and human life.
Discipline
The meditative aspect of bonsai also develops discipline, a trait valued highly within Japanese culture. Tradition states that three elements are vital to the creation of a successful bonsai: truth, goodness and beauty. It is believed that when all three of these elements are present within the bonsai, the tree can live for hundreds of years.
Tags: Japanese culture, aspect bonsai, bonsai tree, states that