“Zuiun juzan o meguru” (瑞雲繞寿山)
“Auspicious clouds encircle the mountain of longevity.”
Zuiun (瑞雲) means “auspicious clouds,” traditionally regarded as signs of good fortune. These clouds are sometimes described as purple or five-colored and appear as auspicious motifs in Japanese art and Buddhist imagery.
The phrase “Zuiun juzan o meguru” describes a mountain symbolizing longevity, surrounded by auspicious clouds. It expresses wishes for a long life and happiness. In the tea ceremony, a hanging scroll bearing these words can create a quietly celebratory atmosphere, particularly at New Year’s gatherings or other special occasions.
Zuiun is also used as a poetic name for a tea scoop (chashaku). The steam rising gently from the kettle may bring to mind clouds drifting through the sky. To find a suggestion of good fortune in something as fleeting as steam reflects, to me, the quiet sensitivity found in both Zen and the way of tea.
