Editor’s Note :
Chinese culture lives not only in grand narratives, but also in carved words, calligraphy, painting, and music—where its spirit and beauty quietly endure.
Cultural Express launches its new Culture column to rediscover the warmth and elegance of Chinese culture in everyday life.
In this issue, 92-year-old Professor Teresa Sun reflects on twelve woodcarved classical inscriptions by her late husband,
Terry Sun, revealing the warmth and beauty of Chinese culture.
This saying is often viewed as a common piece of encouragement, but upon closer examination, it reveals profound insights rooted in Chinese intellectual history.
It is widely understood to mean that one should work hard and persevere without rest. Literally, it states that Heaven shows its positive strength, and that the superior man should strive for self-improvement without ceasing.
Why are “Heaven” and the “superior man” included in this context ? This quote originates from the Book of Change, which is one of the six oldest Chinese classics.
The book suggests that the continuous cycle of the universe reflects a spirit in nature that never fades.
Human beings should demonstrate perseverance by taking inspiration from the constant cycle of the universe in their future endeavors.
Heaven Above, Man Within
The Book of Change is viewed by many modern-day Chinese as a mysterious and somewhat superstitious text. However, it should be recognized as one of the most significant classical works, one that has given rise to many foundational philosophical ideas in Asia.
Many cultural traditions and numerous wisdom sayings still used by the Chinese today can be traced back to this influential text.
No author was recorded, and it should be dated to the early part of the Hundred Schools of Philosophy period (Spring and Autumn period,772-481BC).
The book summarizes the observations made by Chinese ancestors thousands of years ago about the natural environment in which they lived.
Change, Life, Motion
The universe is not a stationary object ; rather, it is a self-rejuvenated perfect "being", a constantly circulating entity that encompasses everything.
No one knows when the “universe” began or when it will end. As human beings, we have no knowledge nor control over these mysteries, so we refer to its origin as Taiji—the Great Ultimate—not a “Creator.”
The most remarkable aspect is the never-ending renewal of all things in the “universe”. A cycle of movement constantly evolves and is supported by an everlasting power.
It contains two elements—yin and yang—balancing all things.
Earthly Order, Human Meaning
At the dawn of Chinese civilization, the Yellow River, known as the mother river of China, supported a civilization focused mainly on agriculture.
The ancestors’ temperament was characterized by a desire for a favorable climate and a commitment to a harmonious, family-centered society.
The Chinese were keen observers of seasonal changes, which led them to make precise observations of cosmic phenomena, including the Chinese calendar and climatological knowledge beneficial to agriculture.
However, rather than systematically searching for the origin of the universe, they concentrated on understanding the mysterious natural forces and transformed these insights into a spirit of ethical governance.
For example, the universe is often viewed as a round whole, with Heaven and Earth placing humanity at the center. Therefore, harmony among the three has long been a central vision in Chinese culture and serves as vital guidance for human relationships.
In Chapter four of the book, People would not be rebellious if he modeled himself after the natural spirit of the cycle of Heaven and Earth.
Recognizing that the "Way of Heaven and Earth" encompasses and nurtures everything, we find that there are no extremes.
By realizing what is prescribed by fate laid by Heaven’s will, one will be content and free from worry. Be satisfied with your land (surroundings) and be kind to people; then a noble person expands their love to embrace all.
Diligence Rewarded, Character Refined
The message conveyed by this quote emphasizes respect for human worth. The Renaissance, which took place in Europe from the fourteenth to the sixteenth century, liberated the human spirit from the constraints of religious control.
In contrast, China has never undergone a similar historical experience. The capabilities of humanity in the universe have been acknowledged since the dawn of civilization, because human beings can exemplify the spirit of the universe.
Human beings exist between Heaven and Earth, with the potential to bring the two into harmony. (Article 2 of 12)
About the Author :
Teresa Sun
Teresa Sun received her bachelor’s degree in Chinese literature from Taiwan Normal University, an M.A. in education from UCLA, and a doctorate from Seton Hall University.
She taught Chinese language and culture at California State universities and Whittier College for nearly 25 years, and was active in Chinese language education, cultural promotion, and community service. She has published papers and four books.
Terry Sun
Terry Sun graduated from National Taiwan University in mechanical engineering and continued his studies at USC. An outstanding HVAC engineer, he was named a Fellow of ASHRAE.
After retirement, he developed a unique artistic style combining wood carving and Chinese calligraphy, and his works were exhibited in museums and institutions.