The interpretation of memes is quite interesting, especially since I've been researching the dragon long recently, and today the concept of 无为 has emerged. The intersection of the interpretation angle and traditional meanings is fascinating. From my previous tweets, it's clear that I've also chosen a community-oriented flavor. Memes are meant to be fun, so why take them too seriously? This tweet reflects a bit of the traditional essence of 无为, so I decided to share it. When $無為 comes up, some think of the Chinese version of $useless. 无为 seems to transcend profoundness, embodying simplicity and purity, existing between heaven and earth, yet beyond worldly concerns. 无为 is one of the core concepts in Chinese Daoist philosophy. A thousand people have a thousand perceptions of 无为; it doesn't need a special definition, yet it is a high-level understanding that resonates deeply. If I must explain, it generally refers to an attitude of life that aligns with nature, does not force things, and avoids reckless actions. It originates from the "Tao Te Ching," where Laozi proposed "governing by non-action," emphasizing the importance of following natural laws, overcoming hardness with softness, and controlling movement with stillness. Here are some anecdotes and stories related to "无为." #無為 $無為 #无为

1. Laozi rode a cow out of the Hangu Pass Background of the story: It is said that in his later years, Laozi felt disappointed with the decline of the Zhou Dynasty and decided to retreat, riding a green cow westward out of the Hangu Pass. The pass's governor, Yinxi, asked him about the way to govern the country, and Laozi left behind the "Tao Te Ching," which contains five thousand words, many of which mention "wu wei" (non-action). For example, in Chapter 3 of the "Tao Te Ching": "Do not value the worthy, so that the people do not compete; do not treasure hard-to-obtain goods, so that the people do not steal; do not show what is desirable, so that the people's hearts do not become chaotic. Therefore, the sage governs by emptying their hearts, filling their bellies, weakening their ambitions, and strengthening their bones, and always keeping the people ignorant and without desires." Meaning of wu wei: Laozi advocated through "wu wei" that rulers should reduce their intervention, allowing the people to live naturally, and society will naturally become harmonious. This thought has influenced later Daoism and governance concepts.

2. The Origin of the Story of the Butcher Cutting Up an Ox: "Zhuangzi: The Master of Nourishing Life" Story Overview: The butcher Ding cuts up an ox for Lord Wen Hui, showcasing his exceptional skill, with his knife techniques resembling a dance, effortlessly navigating through the ox. He explains that the key to success lies in following the structure of the ox's muscles and bones, "in accordance with the principles of nature," and "taking advantage of its natural state," without forcing cuts. After years of practice, he can even "enter the gaps without thickness," with the blade almost undamaged. The Essence of Non-Action: Ding's skill embodies the essence of "non-action," which is to align with the natural laws of things, reducing unnecessary resistance, thus achieving results with half the effort.

3. The origin of the story of the Yellow Emperor's governance without action: "Zhuangzi" and "Records of the Grand Historian" and others. Story summary: It is said that when the Yellow Emperor governed the world, he followed the way of nature, implementing simple policies without imposing interventions. He once dreamt of traveling to the land of the Huaxu clan, where the people had no desires and lived in natural harmony. Inspired, the Yellow Emperor advocated for "governing without action," leading to great peace in the world. Meaning of non-action: The Yellow Emperor's approach to governance embodies the Daoist idea of "non-action," which means achieving social stability by aligning with the people's hearts and reducing coercion.

4. Zhuangzi Refuses the Invitation from King Chu Source of the Story: "Zhuangzi: Autumn Waters" Story Overview: Upon hearing of Zhuangzi's wisdom, King Chu sent envoys to invite him to serve as an official. Zhuangzi was fishing by the banks of the Puzhou River, and upon hearing the request, he used the metaphor "I'd rather be a live turtle than a dead turtle in a temple" to refuse the high position and wealth, preferring to live freely. Meaning of Wu Wei: Zhuangzi chose a lifestyle of "wu wei," pursuing spiritual freedom and rejecting fame and fortune, reflecting a longing for nature and a simple life.

5. The story of Bian Que and Duke Huai of Cai comes from: "Han Feizi · Yu Lao" Story summary: Bian Que repeatedly reminded Duke Huai of Cai to pay attention to his health issues, but Duke Huai believed he was healthy and refused treatment. Eventually, his condition worsened, and there was no cure. Bian Que had already left to avoid unnecessary disputes. Meaning of non-action: Bian Que's retreat reflects the Daoist wisdom of "non-action" in not forcing or compelling others to change, adapting to the situation rather than intervening forcefully.

6. The story of Liezi riding the wind comes from: "Zhuangzi: Free and Easy Wandering". Story summary: Liezi is able to ride the wind and travel freely, returning after fifteen days. However, Zhuangzi believes that this state of "waiting for something" (relying on the wind) has not yet reached true freedom. The true "non-action" should be an inner state of no dependence, transcending the constraints of external things. Meaning of non-action: This story emphasizes that "non-action" is not only about behaving in accordance with nature but also about freeing the mind from dependence, achieving a state of absolute freedom.

The practical influence of the concept of Wu Wei on politics: The "Huang-Lao technique" in the early Han dynasty drew on Wu Wei philosophy, implementing light taxation and labor, promoting rest and recuperation, which led to the "Wenjing period of prosperity". Life: Wu Wei encourages people to reduce their obsessions in life and to follow the natural order, similar to the modern pursuits of "minimalism" and "slow living". Culture: The concept of Wu Wei has influenced Chinese calligraphy, painting, and other arts, emphasizing "the intention follows the brush", and pursuing a natural and effortless beauty.

Wu wei, the wisdom that requires no words $无为