In everyone’s heart there is a book of truth. But it is torn and incomplete, and its message is blurred. Deep in everyone’s spirit is a beautiful melody, but it is drowned by lascivious chords.
He who hankers after knowledge must reject all external temptations, and seek the essence of human nature. Only then will he be able to acquire really useful knowledge.
人心有一部真文章，都被残篇断简封锢了；有一部真鼓吹，都被妖歌艳舞湮没了。学者须扫除外物，直觅本来，才有个真受用。
Notes
Innate Wisdom:
This statement from Cai Gen Tan (Tending the roots of wisdom) articulates that every heart possesses inherent virtue and insight — not acquired, but uncovered.
Twofold Obscuration:
- Intellectual rigidity: Fragmented dogma replacing living truth
- Sensual overload: Superficial entertainment silencing inner resonance
Path to Liberation:
Discard the Nonessential:
- Shatter rigid doctrines while embrace adaptable wisdom;
- Transcend sensory excess but honor natural needs.
Direct Inner Quest:
- Strip societal labels but heed the heart’s whispers;
- Reject transactional relationships but nurture authentic connections.
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