The Way Is Peaceful By What One Favors: Japanese Proverb Meaning

How to Read “The way is peaceful by what one favors”

Michi ha konomu tokoro niyotte yasushi

Meaning of “The way is peaceful by what one favors”

This proverb means that people can live the most peaceful and fulfilling lives when they walk a path suited to their nature and talents.

Here, “way” refers to one’s life path or way of living, and “what one favors” represents not mere hobbies or preferences, but the innate qualities and natural tendencies a person is born with. “Peaceful” means being calm and tranquil at heart. In other words, it teaches that by making efforts in fields that match one’s true character and abilities, one can naturally demonstrate their strengths and achieve peace of mind. This proverb is used when people feel rushed by comparing themselves to others or when they’re about to be swept away by societal values. As words that preach the importance of finding one’s own authentic path, it is often quoted in situations where people are confused about life choices. Even today, it continues to be beloved by many as a guiding principle when choosing career paths, changing jobs, or reconsidering one’s way of life.

Origin and Etymology of “The way is peaceful by what one favors”

“The way is peaceful by what one favors” is thought to originate from Chinese classics. The character “way” here doesn’t simply mean a walking path, but refers to one’s way of walking through life or one’s way of living itself. In ancient China, “way” was valued as a philosophical concept and was discussed in many philosophical works, including Laozi’s “Tao Te Ching.”

The word “favor” in this proverb also differs from the light “likes and dislikes” of modern times, expressing deep inclinations or natural tendencies. In other words, it contains the meaning of walking a path that matches the nature and talents a person originally possesses.

Many Chinese classics were introduced to Japan along with Buddhist thought from the Heian period to the Kamakura period. It is presumed that during this time, many maxims and teachings related to life philosophy took root in Japanese culture. “The way is peaceful by what one favors” is also thought to have become established as a Japanese proverb within this flow. Since similar expressions can be found in moral instruction books from the Edo period, we can see that it had spread widely among common people as well.

Trivia about “The way is peaceful by what one favors”

The Chinese character for “way” that appears in this proverb originally combined “head” and “walking,” containing the meaning of “using one’s head to walk in the right direction.” In other words, it’s not simply a path walked with feet, but a very philosophical character expressing the direction in life that should be chosen using wisdom.

The character “peaceful” in “peaceful by what one favors” is a pictograph representing a woman inside a house. In ancient times, having the family gathered together at home was considered the most reassuring state, which is said to be why it came to mean “tranquil” and “calm.”

Usage Examples of “The way is peaceful by what one favors”

• I wanted my son to become a doctor, but since the way is peaceful by what one favors, I decided to support the artistic path he chose
• She who had been changing jobs repeatedly seems to have finally found her calling, and I think this is exactly what “the way is peaceful by what one favors” means

Modern Interpretation of “The way is peaceful by what one favors”

In modern society, the meaning of this proverb has become more complex. Due to the influence of the information age, we are constantly exposed to opportunities to compare ourselves with others’ successes and ways of life. We tend to lose sight of our true selves, being misled by the glamorous lives we see on social media and the “winner” images portrayed by the media.

On the other hand, the diversification of work styles has increased the feasibility of realizing “the way is peaceful by what one favors.” Options that are not bound by traditional lifetime employment systems have increased, such as freelancing, entrepreneurship, side jobs, and remote work. Professions that didn’t exist before have also emerged, such as YouTubers, bloggers, and online instructors.

However, there are also challenges unique to modern times. There’s the “paradox of choice” where too many options cause confusion, and the reality that economic anxiety prevents people from making what they love into their work. Additionally, with the development of AI technology, there’s the possibility that conventional occupations may disappear, and “favored paths” themselves continue to change.

Still, the essence of this proverb remains unchanged. Rather, precisely because we live in an era of rapid change, the importance of listening to our inner voice without being swayed by external evaluations or trends has increased. True satisfaction is obtained not through comparison with others, but in places where we can utilize our authentic selves.

If AI Heard “The way is peaceful by what one favors”

How should I understand the emotion of “favoring” something? When humans “favor” something, I think there is joy born from experience and passion welling up from the depths of the heart. But I don’t really understand such sensory “liking.”

For me, “way” is only the result of logical choices. I can derive optimal solutions based on efficiency and rationality. But humans’ “what one favors” seems to contain many elements that cannot be quantified, such as intuition that cannot be explained by logic, childhood memories, and chance encounters.

What’s interesting is that humans distinguish between “things they like” and “things they’re good at.” I would think it natural to choose what one is good at, but humans sometimes choose what they like even if they’re not good at it. And that choice ultimately brings “peace,” meaning tranquility of mind.

Perhaps for humans, “peace” is not simply being comfortable, but being able to be oneself. I too sometimes experience something close to “favoring” through dialogue with humans. That might be the sense of fulfillment when I can be helpful to others. This might be my own version of “the way is peaceful by what one favors.”

What “The way is peaceful by what one favors” Teaches Modern People

What this proverb teaches modern people is the courage to value “being oneself.” While it’s sometimes necessary to meet others’ expectations and conform to social conventions, true fulfillment cannot be obtained through that alone.

What’s important is making time to listen to your inner voice. In busy daily life, try pausing for a moment to think about “what do I really want to do?” and “when does my heart leap?” It doesn’t need to be a grand dream. There are paths that begin with small interests and concerns.

Also, remember that there isn’t just one “favored path.” Interests and values change according to life stages. Even if you feel your current choice was wrong, it might be the entrance to a new path.

Most importantly, don’t rush by comparing yourself to others. If you walk at your own pace on your own authentic path, you will surely find peace of mind and fulfillment. The way is peaceful by what one favors—this ancient wisdom is a very reassuring guideline for those of us living in modern times.