Xieyi・The Rootless Tree:24 Chapters-Chapter 11#393
The poems of “The Rootless Tree” express a fundamental force rooted in harmony with heaven and earth, the cyclical flow of yin and yang, and the infinite potential of existence。
This painting is an expressive “Xieyi” in the tradition of “futu” (spiritual diagrams), passed down for generations in Wudang Mountain, China. It is drawn through a technique where energy flow (xingqi) channels the internal intention into visual form。
In the Taoist world, there exist spiritual and symbolic images called “futu”。
These are a type of talisman—not merely religious items, but expressive spiritual paintings that act directly on the mind of the viewer。
Since ancient times, many people have placed these Taoist-style “Xieyi” and futu in their homes, studies, or bedrooms, wishing for longevity, health, auspiciousness, and family harmony. Viewing such paintings was not just aesthetic appreciation, but an act of inviting the presence of the Dao into one’s life and tuning the body and mind。
Thus, “Xieyi” is more than artistic expression—it is a medium that bridges the spirit, life, and harmony with the universe。
This kind of artwork is not meant to be seen only with the eyes, but felt with the heart。
It communicates with the Dao, resonates with the qi of nature, and quietly stirs the viewer’s inner self。
Futu and “Xieyi” continue to live on from ancient times to this day as “sacred images that speak to the soul.”
Below, we present the original text of the philosophical poem “The Rootless Tree,” along with a modern Japanese translation and interpretation。
※ The author of “The Rootless Tree,” Zhang Sanfeng (1247–?), is also renowned as the founder of Tai Chi, and it is said that he applied the essence of this work to Tai Chi. As an additional note, we include an interpretation connecting this to the Tai Chi tradition of Wudang Mountain.
The Rootless Tree・Chapter 11
▶Original Text
無根樹，花正亨，說到無根却有根。三才竅，二五精，天地交時萬物生。日月交時寒暑順，男女交時姙始成。甚分明，說與君，只恐相逢認不眞。
▶Modern Translation
The flower blooming on the rootless tree now reaches its fullest glory, seemingly without roots, yet revealing their hidden existence.
When the Three Powers and Two Essences merge, and Heaven and Earth unite, all life is born.
As the sun and moon converge, the seasons harmonize, and just as cold and heat shift smoothly, so too does the union of man and woman foster new life.
This principle is crystal clear, and I wish to share it with you.
Yet I fear that even should you encounter this truth, you may not recognize it.
▶Interpretation
The metaphor of the rootless tree alludes to hidden truths beyond appearances.
Though seemingly without roots, the tree indeed draws life from unseen depths—symbolizing the cosmic principles of Heaven, Earth, and the generative forces.
It emphasizes the intricate harmony sustaining life and the universe.
▶Interpretation related to Tai Chi
Root and Essence are aligned with internal energy (Qi) in Tai Chi.
True strength lies in subtle inner flow, not visible form.
Recognizing and utilizing this unseen foundation is key to deepening practice.
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