Xieyi・The Rootless Tree:24 Chapters-Chapter 18#579
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 18
▶Original Text
無根樹，花正高，海浪滔天月弄潮。銀河路，透九霄，槎影橫空泊斗梢。摸着織女支機石，踏遍牛郎駕鵲橋。遇仙曹，膽氣豪，盜得瑤池王母桃。
▶Modern Translation
The flower on the rootless tree soars high.
Ocean waves stir the heavens, the moon dances with the tide.
Sailing through the Milky Way, penetrating the nine heavens,
The shadow of the boat drifts across the sky, resting on the tip of the Dipper.
Touch the Weaver Maiden’s loom, step upon the Cowherd’s path,
Cross the Magpie Bridge, meet the Immortal.
With bold spirit, steal the peaches of immortality from the Queen Mother’s Garden.
▶Interpretation
The poet journeys across celestial realms, guided by courage and will.
It symbolizes transcending human limitations to unite with the infinite.
▶Interpretation related to Tai Chi
Tai Chi is more than movement—it is spiritual cultivation.
As one progresses, connection to nature and cosmos deepens,
And the spirit becomes as bold as the Immortals.
Copyright © MASAKI WAKABAYASHI. All rights reserved.
