茶

The character 茶 was invented during the Tang dynasty (8th century) by Lu Yu (陸羽), the author of the classic The Classic of Tea (茶經) — the first monograph on tea culture.

Before Lu Yu’s reform, tea was written as 荼 (tú), which originally referred to “a bitter herb.”

Lu Yu simplified 荼 by removing one horizontal stroke (一), giving birth to 茶 — a distinct character specifically dedicated to the tea beverage.

Thus, 荼 → 茶, where the 艹 (grass radical) signifies “plant,” and the lower part originally derived from 余 (I / remaining), not 木 (tree).

Over time, the lower portion evolved visually toward a 木-like shape, leading to the modern form.

In early manuscripts, 茶 was sometimes written as 𣘻 (木 + 荼), an even earlier transitional variant.

Some etymologists trace 茶 (chá) to Austroasiatic roots, possibly derived from words meaning “leaf,” reflecting early trade and cultural exchange between southern China and Southeast Asia.

This etymon produced diverse phonetic descendants:

Thus, “tea” and “cha” are siblings, both born from the same ancient Chinese word, spread via land and sea routes respectively.

Tea (茶) is not merely a drink — it is one of the pillars of East Asian civilization, representing refinement, contemplation, and hospitality.

In China:

Tea culture (茶文化) became central to Tang and Song literati life.

Lu Yu’s The Classic of Tea (茶經) defined the philosophy of purity, harmony, and simplicity in brewing and serving.

Tea ceremonies expressed a union of nature, art, and virtue — the “Way of Tea” (茶道 / 茶之道).

In Korea:

Tea (차 / 다) entered from Tang China and developed into 다례 (茶禮) — “tea ritual,” emphasizing courtesy, stillness, and clarity of mind.

Historically practiced by monks and scholars, 차(茶) became a symbol of inner purity and moral cultivation.

In Japan:

Tea evolved into 茶道 (sadō / chadō), the “Way of Tea,” deeply connected to Zen Buddhism.

The act of preparing and serving tea became a form of meditation in motion, emphasizing respect, harmony, purity, and tranquility (和敬清寂).

Symbolism in art & literature:

In East Asian poetry and painting, 茶 symbolizes:

Simplicity (簡) — humble pleasures over luxury.

Awakening (覺) — clarity of mind, like a mountain stream.

Harmony (和) — between nature and self.

Famous Tang poets often associated tea with pure friendship, literary gatherings, and transient serenity:

「一盞清茶，萬古長春。」

“One cup of clear tea — eternal spring within the heart.”