Xieyi・The Rootless Tree:24 Chapters-Chapter 3#406
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 3
▶Original Text
無根樹，花正靑，花酒神仙古到今。煙花寨，酒肉林，不犯葷腥不犯淫。犯淫喪失長生寶，酒肉穿腸道在心。打開門，說與君，無酒無花道不成。
▶Modern Translation
Now a green blossom blooms on the rootless tree.
Wine and beauty have existed even in the realm of immortals.
Brothels and feasts—smoke and wine abound—
But so long as one does not drown in indulgence, there is no harm.
To be ensnared in lust is to lose the treasures of longevity.
Wine and meat pass through the body—
If the heart remains upright, there is no issue.
Let it be said clearly—
Without wine and flowers, the Way cannot be attained.
▶Interpretation
This verse teaches the principle of balance, not abstinence.
• Even immortals are not alien to pleasure.
• Desire is not inherently wrong—it’s the disruption of inner harmony that is dangerous.
• Overzealous asceticism may distance one from the Way.
▶Interpretation related to Tai Chi
• Do not deny enjoyment, but maintain control.
• Overly ascetic training may miss the essence of the art.
• Always center on the heart—know why you train.
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