Xieyi・The Rootless Tree:24 Chapters-Chapter 7#451
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 7
▶Original Text
無根樹，花正繁，美貌嬌容似粉團。防猿馬，劣更頑，挂起娘生鐵面顔。提出靑龍眞寶劔，摘盡墻頭朶朶鮮。趁風帆，滿載還，怎肯空行到寶山。
▶Modern Translation
Now, blossoms bloom profusely on the rootless tree.
Their beauty is like powdered rouge, radiant and full.
But beware the monkey of the mind and the horse of will.
Endure with a face of iron in your practice.
Draw the precious sword of the Azure Dragon,
And cut down the flowers of worldly desire blooming beyond the hedge.
Like a sail catching wind, return fully laden.
One must not return empty-handed from a mountain of treasure.
▶Interpretation
• “Monkey and horse” symbolize restless mind and scattered intent.
• “Precious sword” = inner concentration and clarity.
• “Return fully laden” = gain true fruits from your effort.
▶Interpretation related to Tai Chi
• Dispel inner distractions—Tai Chi requires mental clarity.
• Your posture and face should reflect stillness.
• Carry the result of each practice—don’t let the session be wasted.
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