Zen StoriesZen Stories

A Cup of Tea

A Zen master teaches a prideful professor that a full mind cannot receive new wisdom.

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Illustration for A Cup of Tea - a zen stories Zen Stories story with moral lessons

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Story Summary

In the Zen story A Cup of Tea, a scholar learns a powerful lesson when Master Nan-in purposefully overflows a teacup to symbolize a mind too full for wisdom.

Nan-in, a Japanese master during the Meiji era, received a university professor who came to inquire about Zen. Nan-in served tea. He poured his visitor's cup full, and then kept on pouring. The professor watched the overflow until he no longer could restrain himself. 'It is overfull. No more will go in!' 'Like this cup,' Nan-in said, 'you are full of your own opinions and speculations. How can I show you Zen unless you first empty your cup?'

The Moral

To acquire new knowledge and wisdom, one must first empty their mind of preconceived notions and ego.

“How can I show you Zen unless you first empty your cup?”

Fun Fact

This story is a classic example of a 'koan' or a Zen teaching tool, and it has become one of the most popular metaphors in modern psychology for 'unlearning' old habits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the moral of A Cup of Tea?

The moral is that an open and humble mind is a prerequisite for learning. If you approach a new subject with a mind full of your own opinions, there is no room for new insights to enter.

What does the tea represent in the story?

The tea represents knowledge, wisdom, or Zen teachings. Just as the tea cannot stay in a cup that is already full, wisdom cannot stay in a mind that is already convinced it knows everything.

Why did Nan-in keep pouring the tea?

Nan-in kept pouring to provide a physical demonstration of the professor's mental state. He used the overflowing cup as a metaphor to show the professor that his ego and existing opinions were blocking his ability to learn.

Who was Nan-in in real life?

Nan-in (1868–1912) was a Japanese Zen master during the Meiji era. He was known for his direct and often unorthodox teaching methods to help students achieve enlightenment.

What is the significance of the professor being the visitor?

The professor represents intellectualism and formal education. In Zen, high academic standing can sometimes become an obstacle if it leads to an 'overfull' mind that lacks the humility of a beginner.

How can we apply 'Empty Your Cup' in daily life?

We can apply this by listening more than we speak, challenging our own biases, and approaching every conversation or new experience with the curiosity of a student rather than the authority of an expert.