Xieyi・The Rootless Tree:24 Chapters-Chapter 2#396
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 2
▶Original Text
無根樹，花正微，樹老將新接嫩枝。桃寄柳，桑接梨，傳與修眞作樣兒。自古神仙栽接法，人老原來有藥醫。訪明師，問方兒，下手速修猶太遲。
▶Modern Translation
A faint blossom now blooms on the rootless tree.
Onto an aged tree, a young branch is grafted anew.
A peach onto a willow, a mulberry onto a pear—
Even different trees will grow together when united.
This is a law of nature that cultivators should emulate.
Since ancient times, sages have practiced this art of grafting.
Even in old age, one can be revived through cultivation.
Seek out wise teachers and the Way,
And begin your training without delay—it is already almost too late.
▶Interpretation
This verse offers a message of hope: it is never too late to begin.
• The metaphor of grafting emphasizes the possibility of regeneration, even in old age.
• “Peach onto willow, mulberry onto pear”: diverse elements can harmonize through the Way.
• Cultivation is not bound by age—what matters is to begin now.
• A “bright teacher” (明師) is crucial for guidance.▶Interpretation related to Tai Chi
• Growth is always possible, regardless of age.
• A flexible mind is the new “branch”—openness to new techniques is essential.
• Seek a true teacher who imparts the authentic essence beyond mere performance.
Copyright © MASAKI WAKABAYASHI. All rights reserved.
