The discovery of tea is steeped in ancient legends and folklore that have been passed down through generations. These legends offer enchanting stories of how tea was first discovered and highlight the cultural significance of this beloved beverage. Here are a few notable legends surrounding the discovery of tea:
Emperor Shen Nong and the Boiling Water:
One of the most famous legends involves Emperor Shen Nong, a mythical figure known as the “Divine Farmer” and considered the father of Chinese agriculture and medicine. According to the legend, while Shen Nong was traveling through the countryside, he stopped to rest under a Camellia sinensis tree. As he boiled water for drinking, some tea leaves accidentally fell into his pot. Intrigued by the pleasant aroma and taste, he tasted the infused water and discovered the delightful qualities of tea.
Bodhidharma and the Tired Eyelids:
According to a Zen Buddhist legend, the 6th century Indian monk Bodhidharma, who is credited with founding Zen Buddhism, embarked on a nine-year meditation. During this time, he struggled to stay awake and focused. Finally he fell asleep after 7 years. On waking up, he was angry on himself and in frustration, cut off his eyelids and threw them to the ground. A tea plant sprouted from the spot where his eyelids fell. When he brewed the leaves, he found that the resulting beverage helped him stay awake and alert during meditation.
Another one involving a Buddhist Monk
Another legend tells the story of a Buddhist monk who was determined to stay awake during long hours of meditation. In his pursuit of a stimulant, the monk chewed on leaves from various plants. One day, he discovered a wild tea plant and chewed its leaves, which helped him stay alert and focused. This led to the recognition of tea’s invigorating properties and its association with spiritual practices.
The Sheer-Lun and the Tea Leaves:
In a Chinese folklore, there is a legend about a farmer named Sheer-Lun who discovered tea. One day, Sheer-Lun noticed a flock of birds gathering around a tea tree. Curious, he observed the birds plucking the tender leaves and eating them. Intrigued by their behavior, he decided to try the leaves himself. He found the leaves refreshing and rejuvenating, leading to the recognition of tea’s stimulating properties.
These legends and stories contribute to the mystique and allure surrounding the discovery of tea. While the precise origins of tea may be obscured by time and myth, these legends have become ingrained in Chinese culture, highlighting the reverence and significance of tea as a cherished beverage and symbol of hospitality and refreshment.
