On the Way of Heaven

This is an essay on the relationship between Heaven and man. It tells their difference and also shows their unity. It is a reflection of the dialectical view of the ancient Chinese on this issue. Master Xun developed this topic in two respects: how to treat Heaven and how to look at man himself. He pointed out that the evolution of Heaven follows its own rules instead of taking human factors into account. This opinion serves as the logical foundation of the whole essay. With this understanding, man will be aware of improving his environment by following the laws of nature, stop being fascinated by and dependent upon the personified Heaven, and clarify the distinction between Heaven and man. Compared with man, Heaven “succeeds without effort and receives without seeking.” It is formless and intangible, and displays its achievement rather than its effort. Basing on this enlightenment, man will keep from competing with Heaven in its operation or going beyond the boundary of its knowledge.