The concept of “ma” (間) in Japanese culture is deeply rooted in its philosophy and aesthetics, particularly emphasized in various art forms such as architecture, music, theater, literature, garden design, and tea ceremonies. It offers a perspective on space and time that can be different from those in Western cultures.
“Ma” can refer not only to physical space, but also to time, relational, and spiritual distances. Furthermore, it can refer to visible or auditory gaps, or the intangible ‘interval’ between one event and another. This concept underscores the idea in both Japanese aesthetics and philosophy of life that things are always in relation to one another.
For instance, in Japanese architecture, “ma” often refers to the space between rooms. This encompasses not just the physical space, but also the atmosphere within and the sense of interaction with others in that space.
In Japanese music or theater, “ma” refers to the moments of silence between notes or movements. The utilization of these “ma” moments adds depth to the overall performance or act and elicits emotional responses.
“Ma” can also refer to the social or spiritual distance between people. This refers to how close or distant people are to each other. In Japanese society, this is a crucial concept, where maintaining the right ‘ma’ is necessary to respect others and to maintain harmony.
