How to Read “智は性の嗜む所に出ず”
Chi wa sei no tashinamu tokoro ni idezu
Meaning of “智は性の嗜む所に出ず”
This proverb means “true wisdom does not arise from fields that are biased toward a person’s innate nature or preferences.”
Everyone has innate personality traits, preferences, and areas of strength from birth. However, this teaches us that true wisdom cannot be acquired by remaining only in those areas to which we are naturally drawn. Fields that match our nature are certainly easier to work in and may yield some results. However, that cannot be called true wisdom.
This proverb is used when discussing learning and personal cultivation in life. It serves as a warning that true growth cannot be expected if one remains biased only toward their preferences and strengths. The teaching is that deep wisdom can only be acquired by looking broadly across various fields and sometimes challenging oneself with things that are difficult or uninteresting. Even today, when explaining the importance of acquiring not just specialized knowledge but broad education, the essence of these words can be said to be wisdom that is fully applicable.
Origin and Etymology
The origin of this proverb is thought to be rooted in ancient Chinese philosophical thought. It likely emerged from concepts discussed in Confucian teachings about the relationship between human essential nature and wisdom.
In ancient China, the relationship between human “nature” (original character or innate qualities) and “wisdom” (knowledge or learning) was deeply contemplated. Thinkers including Mencius engaged in extensive discussions about the differences between human nature and knowledge acquired through experience.
This proverb was probably transmitted to Japan along with Buddhist and Confucian scriptures. It is presumed that from the Heian to Kamakura periods, as ancient Chinese philosophical thought was widely accepted by Japan’s intellectual class, such profound philosophical teachings also became established as Japanese proverbs.
The word “tashinamu” (to delight in) is often used in modern times to mean “to enjoy as a hobby,” but in classical language it had a stronger meaning of “to prefer” or “to love,” expressing the natural direction of human nature. In other words, this proverb is not simply about hobbies, but is a highly philosophical teaching about human essential nature and the acquisition of wisdom.
Usage Examples
- Even if he only studies mathematics, “Wisdom does not emerge from what nature delights in,” so it won’t become true learning
- Even if you only study fields you like, as they say “Wisdom does not emerge from what nature delights in”
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, the meaning of this proverb has become even more important. With the advancement of the information age, it has become easy for us to selectively receive only information that matches our interests and concerns. Social media algorithms learn our preferences and provide us with only similar information. This can be said to be exactly the situation that “Wisdom does not emerge from what nature delights in” warned against.
In our modern era of increasing specialization, there is a tendency to emphasize deeply mastering one field. However, true innovation often emerges from the intersection of knowledge from different fields. Just as Apple’s Steve Jobs emphasized the intersection of technology and liberal arts, broad knowledge and education are the source of creativity.
On the other hand, values like “make your passion your work” and “cherish your individuality” have also spread in modern times. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but this proverb offers a different perspective. It teaches the value of not confining oneself only to personal preferences and strengths, but intentionally stepping into different domains.
In today’s global society, understanding diverse cultures and values is required. True international wisdom cannot be acquired by depending only on one’s own cultural background and values. The teaching of this proverb may have more urgent meaning for modern people.
When AI Hears This
The teaching of “Chi wa sei no konomu tokoro ni idezu” (wisdom does not emerge from what one’s nature favors) appears to directly contradict the modern value of “turning your passion into your profession.” However, when we dig deeper into this contrast, we discover that both concepts are surprisingly similar in their essential goals.
Modern psychology’s flow theory suggests that people perform at their peak when there’s a balance between “appropriate challenge” and “sufficient skill.” What’s fascinating is that this theory emphasizes not just “what you love” but also “appropriate difficulty.” In other words, simply doing what you enjoy will eventually halt your growth.
Confucian thought in the Edo period similarly made a clear distinction between “being swayed by preferences” and “learning through intrinsic motivation.” “What one’s nature favors” doesn’t refer to superficial likes and dislikes, but rather to humanity’s tendency to stay on the easy path or remain in comfortable zones. True wisdom emerges when we step outside this safety zone and confront difficulties.
The modern concept of “turning your passion into your profession” also presupposes not merely extending one’s hobbies, but continuously challenging difficulties with passion. Both perspectives advocate for the importance of “intrinsic motivation” while simultaneously warning against “settling into comfortable territories.”
Lessons for Today
What this proverb teaches modern people is the importance of “the courage to step outside our comfort zone.” We all feel secure when surrounded by things we’re good at or enjoy. However, true growth lies beyond those boundaries.
In modern society, it has become easier than before to avoid things we’re not good at. But that’s exactly why it’s become important to consciously accumulate diverse experiences. Pick up a book from a genre you’ve never read, talk with people from different generations, experience unfamiliar cultures. Such small steps will broaden your perspective and enrich your thinking.
What’s important is not seeking perfection. You don’t need to become an expert in areas where you’re weak. Simply knowing how people in those fields see the world is enough. That alone will plant seeds of new wisdom within you.
There are things you can start today. Try walking a different path, read a section of the newspaper you usually skip, research a topic that didn’t interest you before. Such small curiosities will surely guide you toward true wisdom.
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