The Customs and Culture of TeaYou’re a wealthy young Chinese man and customs and culture during the Sung Dynasty mandate if you are betrothed to a lovely young woman. Her price comes high. You must take precious ornaments made from rare stones, jade and gold, rolls of satin and silk and tea bricks to her family before she is yours. 
If you were a young unmarried girl in the Fujian province, you could not drink tea outside of your own house. If you drank tea in the home of someone else, you were consenting to become the daughter-in-law to that household. Tea was considered to be a token of trust due to the immovable nature of the tea tree.Tea was such a valuable commodity in Chinese customs it was a major part of weddings and events. It was used as betrothal gifts, dowries, and wedding gifts. Tea has many customs throughout the world. In Libya drinking it is the most popular pastime. They bring their tea sets with them on family outings and picnics. The tea making acoutrements are immediately brought out when guests arrive at the home. It is then brewed and served with care and tradition in three tiny glasses, each with it's own ceremony. Tea houses in the Middle East are called Chahanas. They are meeting places for men to discuss politics, religion and current events. They take a lump of sugar and put it between their teeth then sip the tea, which is sometimes infused with mint, through the sugar. The tradition of having afternoon tea has become a ceremony in itself, with specific teaware, etiquette and ritual. Come with me to a tea dance, high and low tea, a chado, or Japanese Tea ceremony, or a Chinese Gongfu Ceremony. The customs and culture of tea are varied and interesting. To continue your journey through the world of tea customs and culture follow the links below.
|
