Lu Yu

Lu Yu

Lu Yu (733–804), also known as the "Sage of Tea," was a Chinese tea master and writer during the Tang dynasty. He is best known for his seminal work, the Cha Jing (茶经), which is the first definitive work on cultivating, making, and drinking tea.

Early Life

Lu Yu was born in 733 in Jingling, now known as Tianmen, in Hubei province. He was adopted by a Buddhist monk and spent his early years in a monastery. Despite his monastic upbringing, Lu Yu did not become a monk. Instead, he pursued a secular life, focusing on the study and appreciation of tea.

The Classic of Tea

The Classic of Tea (茶经) is Lu Yu's most famous work, written between 760 and 780. It is the first comprehensive book on tea in the world and is divided into three volumes and ten chapters. The book covers various aspects of tea, including its history, cultivation, processing, and brewing techniques. It also discusses the proper utensils for tea preparation and the ideal environment for enjoying tea.

Contents of the Classic of Tea

• Volume I: Origin of Tea - Discusses the history and origin of tea.
• Volume II: Tools - Describes the tools and utensils used in tea preparation.
• Volume III: Making Tea - Details the process of making tea, from picking leaves to brewing.

Legacy

Lu Yu's work had a profound impact on Chinese tea culture and the development of tea ceremonies. His meticulous approach to tea preparation and appreciation set the standard for future generations. Lu Yu is often revered as a cultural icon in China, and his influence extends to tea cultures in Japan and Korea.

Related Pages

• Tea culture
• Chinese tea
• Tea ceremony
• Tang dynasty
• The Classic of Tea