Ikkyu Sojun: The Popular Monk from the Japan Anime "Ikkyu-san"
Known for his clever wit, “Ikkyu-san” is famous from folklore and anime. The real Ikkyu was a Rinzai Zen monk who lived during the Muromachi period, from the time of the third shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu through the Ōnin War. His name was Ikkyu Sojun.
He entered a temple at the age of six and quickly displayed great poetic talent, gaining acclaim for his Chinese-style poetry.
At age 27, although he attained enlightenment, he burned the certificate (called "inka") that recognized his awakening and left the temple. He then led a life devoted to poetry, satire, painting, and eccentric behavior.
Despite being a monk, he had a wife and consumed alcohol and meat—behaviors that broke traditional religious rules. On New Year’s, he would walk through town with a staff topped by a skull, calling out “Be careful, be careful.” While these actions seemed bizarre, they were in fact critiques of a Buddhism that had become bound by rigid rules and authority.
His deeply human lifestyle resonated with common people, and in the Edo period, collections of tales based on Ikkyu Sojun were published. One of the teachings he introduced, known as the “Ten Virtues of Incense,” is a beautiful expression that incense lovers today should also appreciate.
What Are the Ten Virtues of Incense（香の十徳）?
The Ten Virtues of Incense were written by Huang Tingjian, a poet of the Northern Song Dynasty in the 11th century. As mentioned, they were introduced to Japan by Ikkyu Sojun.
感格鬼神
(Kan-kaku-Ki-jin) It sharpens your senses and helps you concentrate.
清浄心身
(Shou-jou-Shin-jin) Purifies the mind and body.
It cleanses both body and spirit.
能除汚穢
(Nou-jo-O-e) Removes defilements and spiritual impurities.
能覚睡眠
(Nou-kaku-Sui-min) Effectively awakens from sleep. (*Note: Some interpret this as inviting sleep.)
静中成友
(Sei-chuu-Jou-yuu ) Becomes a friend in silence, Soothes the heart in times of solitude.
塵裡偸閑
(Jin-ri-Yuu-kan) Provides relaxation even during busy moments.
多而不厭
(Ta-ji-Fu-en) Even in abundance, it does not tire.
寡而為足
(Ka-ni-I-soku) Even a small amount offers a satisfying fragrance.
久蔵不朽
(Kyuu-zou-Fu-kyuu) Can be preserved for long periods without spoiling.
常用無障
(Jou-you-Mu-shou) Regular use is not harmful.
The Perception of Incense Passed Down Through Time
The "Ten Virtues of Incense" poetically and elegantly express the benefits of incense. Though composed of only 40 Chinese characters, these verses capture qualities of incense that are still appreciated in modern times. It's quite astonishing.
