What Does a Gaiwan Represent? Heaven, Humanity and Earth
A gaiwan (盖碗, gàiwǎn, “lidded bowl”) represents heaven, humanity and earth. Its lid stands for heaven, its bowl for people and its saucer for the earth, reflecting the ancient Chinese ideal of humans living in harmony between heaven and earth. That’s why I often say that when I hold a gaiwan, I’m holding the universe.
What does a gaiwan represent?
For many Western tea lovers, a gaiwan can feel a little tricky to use at first. But once you understand its cultural background, using one becomes a pleasure. People think I’m joking when I say I hold the universe in my hand, but from a cultural point of view, I’m serious.
Every gaiwan has three parts:
- The lid: heaven.
- The bowl: humanity.
- The saucer: earth.
Together, they express an ancient Chinese philosophy: how we humans live between heaven and earth to reach a state of oneness and harmony. Chinese values teach us to respect heaven and care for the earth, because in the end, we are all one.
What is the idea of oneness in Chinese culture?
The concept of oneness is everywhere in Chinese culture. Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism all emphasize it. One saying goes: your body is a small universe, and the universe is your larger body. You and the universe are one. If you truly understand your body, you understand the universe, and if you truly understand the universe, you also know what is happening inside yourself. Both work the same way, as one system. This is real enlightenment.
By “body,” I mean not only your physical body but also your spiritual self. These two are one as well. Without the spirit, the body cannot live; without the body, the spirit has nowhere to live. In the same way, you and I are connected, not separate.
How can you use a gaiwan mindfully?
So every time you brew tea in a gaiwan, remember that you are connected with the universe, and let the ritual refresh you. It’s a beautiful idea, and well worth practicing. To get started, read the essential teaware for gongfu tea, the meaning of gongfu tea and tea and Wu Xing.
- Choose a 120–130 ml porcelain gaiwan for one or two people.
- Hold the saucer with your thumb and middle finger, and press the lid with your index finger, leaving a small gap to pour.
- Pour slowly into a fairness cup.
FAQ
What are the three parts of a gaiwan?
A lid, a bowl and a saucer, representing heaven, humanity and earth.
Is a gaiwan hard to use?
It takes a little practice, but a small porcelain gaiwan is easy to master.
What tea can I brew in a gaiwan?
Any tea. Porcelain doesn’t absorb flavors, so one gaiwan works for green, white, oolong, black tea and pu-erh.