Japanese Zen art

Through the various Japanese arts, many of the moral and spiritual values of Zen were taught and transmitted in Japan. Zen incense can be a symblo of Zen culture. Zen Incense burning has an important function in Japan's culture. In Japan, there is a tradition of studying Zen art, it is not only for art's sake but also for spiritual aims. When practicing with Zen principles in mind and lighting an incense, art can be a peaceful journey and a way of self-cultivation leading to calmness, serenity, and concentration

Incense fires are an ancient practice that dates back to the biblical times in the Middle East (where it probably arose) and as far back as the 8th century in Japan. It is considered a sacred offering that offers the potential to calm the mind and allow us to communicate with the transcendent as the first of the "Ten Virtues of Koh (Incense)." In Zen incense is used as a sacrifice, as a way to concentrate our intention, and very practically, until a period of meditation-short sticks takes about 25 minutes; Long sticks, about 45 minutes.