What Is the Meaning of 'Bonsai'?
Bonsais are dwarf trees that have been pruned to maintain their stature. As the tree originated in China over 1,000 years ago, the meaning changed when it became popularized in Japan. Does this Spark an idea?
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Literal Meaning
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Bonsai literally means "tree in pot." Bonsai is a Japanese word taken from the Chinese word for the tree, "penzai."
Time Frame
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It is unclear exactly when the word originated; however, its oldest record is a Chinese gardening book dating to A.D. 1170.
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Early Cultural Meaning
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Bonsai trees represented peace and harmony when the tree was first cultivated in China. It first started becoming popular in Japan Kamakura period by Zen Buddhist monks.
Meaning in Japan
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As the tree was being cultivated in Japan, it began to represent the harmony between man and nature. The meaning of the tree is closely tied in to Eastern philosophies.
Growing Changes
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Grown by the affluent class, bonsai trees were cut down to their basic elements. Its simplicity displayed the Japanese's penchant for minimalism.
Bonsai Trees Today
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Bonsai trees are grown all over the world. They represent a preference for incorporating natural elements into landscaping and interior design.
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