noun
innermost secrets of a discipline; esoteric teachings
Refers to the deepest, most advanced teachings in traditional Japanese arts (e.g., tea ceremony, martial arts, flower arrangement), often transmitted orally and only to select disciples. The cross-reference to 伝 (sense 3) suggests a connection to the concept of 'tradition' or 'transmission' of secret knowledge.
See also: 伝 (でん)
茶道の奥伝を許されるまでには長い修行が必要だ。
Long training is required before one is permitted to learn the innermost secrets of the tea ceremony.
彼は師匠から奥伝を授かった。
He received the esoteric teachings from his master.