The force that binds the universe is unpredictable. Sometimes it makes man struggle against adversity, and sometimes it grants him favourable circumstances.
This shows that Heaven has the faculty of making or breaking heroes and other outstanding men. When a man of noble character meets a temporary setback, he exercises patience. When everything seems to be smooth sailing, he keeps in mind the possible approach of adversity. In this way, even the lord of Heaven cannot manipulate him.
天之机缄不测，抑而伸，伸而抑，皆是播弄英雄，颠倒豪杰处。君子是逆来顺受，居安思危，天亦无听用其伎俩矣。
Notes
Cosmic caprice as the Great Leveler
Heaven’s inscrutable play humbles even heroes:
Success and setback are arbitrary forces beyond control. All greatness is subject to cosmic irony.
The noble’s unshakable dual posture
- In adversity: Accept without resentment; Neutralizes suffering’s sting.
- In peace: Anticipate peril; Prevents complacency’s downfall.
This twofold poise renders Heaven’s schemes powerless.
Mastery through inner constancy
While cosmic chaos reigns, the noble cultivates unwavering inner order:
- Not passive resignation, but active spiritual sovereignty.
- By anchoring in vigilance and equanimity, one transcends fate’s pendulum.
Ultimate Insight:
This passage from Tending the roots of wisdom (also known as Vegetable Roots Discourses) tells us that:
True freedom lies not in controlling external winds, but in steadying your inner sail.
Heaven governs the storm; you govern your stillness.
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