I recently participated in an interview for Ikigai Tribe with @Nicholas Kemp and I talked about my life as a calligrapher, and Japanese culture.
Among other things, I was asked why the word “心” (kokoro, heart/mind) is often present in Japanese calligraphy and what it really means. I have never really thought about it, but it’s true that I frequently use “心” in my work. In fact, there are many concepts in Japanese that include the kanji 心. So it was a very insightful question.
To hear my answer, please listen to the interview!
Upon reflection, there are indeed many Japanese words that include 心. Today, I would like to introduce one of them: “心月円明” (Shingetsu Enmei).
“心月” (Shingetsu) refers to a heart as clear and bright as the moon. “円明” (Enmei) means reaching a state of perfect wisdom and enlightenment. Those are, as often, Buddhist concepts. The state of enlightenment is characterized by a serene and bright heart, free of any clouds, accepting everything as it is. Beautiful word, isn’t it?
It is said that the Enmei style, founded by Miyamoto when he was young, derives its name from this phrase (Musashi established the Enmei school before founding the more widely known Niten Ichi-ryu).
This reminds us that samurai of the past not only focused on techniques in martial arts but also on cultivating their hearts through Buddhism or Zen. Hence the importance of “心.”
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