WORKSHOP by MASTER DAVID KOMEIJI, SAGA GORYU SCHOOL OF IKEBANA

The Saga Goryu School of Ikebana’s philosophic roots originated during the ninth century grounded in Shingon Buddhism.  An overarching goal of this practise is to have all people gain ‘enlightenment’ in their lifetime. Reinforcing the idea that humans are part of the universal landscape and are responsible to create harmony and peace in their immediate surroundings and larger environment. As such, Saga Goryu Ikebana embodies these values and expresses them through their arrangements. 

Saga Goryu Ikebana embodies these values and expresses them through their arrangements.

The concept of ‘Funi’ (不ニ) nonduality; “not two” is fundamental to understanding Saga Goryu ikebana. Saga Goryu’s arrangements are created in a ‘context’. The reason for the arrangement, selection of display space, vase, arrangement stand, and materials all set the scene for the arrangement. The idea that an arrangement is the most important item, neglects the other contextual components and detracts from the ikebana works.

On one level, Funi—“not two”—looks at the arrangement and surrounding space as a complete unit. The air space (kuukan) is vital to show the interaction between the individual components of the arrangement and space encompassing the arrangement.  On a deeper level is the experience of the arranger and viewer that can be relayed only

partially by words. Philosophically speaking, Funi refers to that which can be expressed and that which is experienced. Although humans desire decisive answers, life’s answers tend to fall somewhere between those polar positions.

Another perspective of Funi is stability/balance (antei). This idea permeates Saga Goryu arrangements. The opposite of stability is unstable/unsettled. If one’s body/mind is centered/balanced/stable, then one is able to face life’s challenges without too much distress. When the material in an arrangement is secure and balanced, it provides the

viewer with a sense of stability and relaxation.

Saga Goryu School of Ikebana, North America Chapter (Hokubei Shisho)