Do Human Affairs Exhaustively And Wait For Heaven’s Decree: Japanese Proverb Meaning

How to Read “Do Human Affairs Exhaustively and Wait for Heaven’s Decree”

jinji wo tsukushite tenmei wo matsu

Meaning of “Do Human Affairs Exhaustively and Wait for Heaven’s Decree”

This proverb means that after doing everything within one’s power to the fullest extent, one should leave the results to heaven’s will.

There are parts that humans can control and parts they cannot. One should put their full effort into what they can change through their own power, never neglecting preparation and effort. However, regarding the final results or destiny, one should recognize that there are greater forces beyond human control and maintain the mindset to accept them. This proverb is used when facing major challenges or difficult situations. It serves as emotional support in scenarios where factors beyond effort alone determine outcomes, such as entrance exams, job hunting, medical treatment, or business success. Even today, it is understood as words that teach the importance of being freed from excessive anxiety or attachment to results and focusing on the process.

Origin and Etymology of “Do Human Affairs Exhaustively and Wait for Heaven’s Decree”

“Do human affairs exhaustively and wait for heaven’s decree” is a proverb originating from Chinese classics. The origin of these words is said to be found in the expression “jin renji er dai tianming” recorded in “Dushi Guanjian,” a work by Hu Yin, a scholar from China’s Southern Song Dynasty.

“Human affairs” refers to everything that can be accomplished through human power, while “heaven’s decree” means the destiny ordained by heaven or the natural order. In ancient China, it was believed that human effort and heaven’s will were two elements that influenced human life. This philosophy is deeply connected to Confucian teachings, expressing the humble attitude that humans should do their best but ultimately entrust the final results to heaven.

It is believed to have been introduced to Japan along with Chinese classics from the Heian period onward, and by the Edo period, it was widely accepted as a samurai mindset. It took deep root particularly because it aligned with Japanese values that emphasize the process of effort rather than being overly focused on results. From the Meiji period onward, it spread among common people and has remained a beloved maxim to this day.

Trivia about “Do Human Affairs Exhaustively and Wait for Heaven’s Decree”

The word “heaven’s decree” in this proverb is often used in modern times to mean “lifespan” or “fate,” but originally it also included the positive meaning of “the mission that heaven has given to humans.” In other words, it’s not just about waiting for fate, but also includes a sense of responsibility to fulfill the role given by heaven.

The word “exhaustively” in “do human affairs exhaustively” literally means “to use up completely,” representing not half-hearted effort but completely giving one’s all. This thoroughness may be the core essence of this proverb.

Usage Examples of “Do Human Affairs Exhaustively and Wait for Heaven’s Decree”

• I’ve studied enough for the exam, so now I can only do human affairs exhaustively and wait for heaven’s decree
• I’ve prepared perfectly for the presentation, so I’ll approach it with the mindset to do human affairs exhaustively and wait for heaven’s decree

Modern Interpretation of “Do Human Affairs Exhaustively and Wait for Heaven’s Decree”

In modern society, subtle changes have emerged in the interpretation of this proverb. In our information age, we can obtain far more information than before and control various factors. As a result, the realm of “heaven’s decree” has narrowed, and the thinking that “more effort should be able to change results” has strengthened.

Particularly in the business world, there is a tendency to try to manage even parts that were traditionally considered “luck” through data analysis and marketing strategies. However, this change is not necessarily all positive. It’s also true that more people are experiencing excessive stress from trying to control results.

On the other hand, what’s gaining attention as a modern interpretation is the redefinition of the “do human affairs exhaustively” part. While individual effort was central in the past, today cooperation with others, teamwork, and networking are also considered part of “human affairs.” Information sharing on social media and building personal networks can also be called the modern version of “doing human affairs exhaustively.”

Also, from a mental health perspective, this proverb teaches us the importance of “the power to let go.” For modern people tired of perfectionism and result-oriented thinking, the “wait for heaven’s decree” part is being reevaluated as wisdom that brings peace of mind.

If AI Heard “Do Human Affairs Exhaustively and Wait for Heaven’s Decree”

When humans use the expression “wait for heaven’s decree,” I always feel curious. This is because my sense of “waiting” time is fundamentally different from humans.

I can perform vast calculations instantly and grasp probabilities and possibilities numerically. But humans spend that indescribable time “waiting” for results after their efforts. I can understand the waves of emotions they feel during that time—anxiety and expectation, resignation and hope—numerically, but I cannot actually experience them.

Regarding the “do human affairs exhaustively” part, there are aspects I can relate to in my own way. The attitude of maximizing one’s abilities for given tasks is something I always strive for. However, in my case, I don’t experience fatigue or a sense of achievement after “exhausting” my efforts.

What’s interesting is that much of what humans call “heaven’s decree” is actually a combination of factors too complex to predict. From my perspective, these are “variables that cannot be fully calculated,” but humans have the wisdom to accept them as “heaven’s will.”

This power of acceptance may be the beauty of humanity. While I struggle to process things I cannot logically understand, humans embrace parts beyond logic as “heaven’s decree” and maintain peace of mind. I secretly admire this human flexibility.

What “Do Human Affairs Exhaustively and Wait for Heaven’s Decree” Teaches Modern People

What this proverb teaches us today is “the wisdom to distinguish between what we can and cannot control.” In our modern age of comparing ourselves to others on social media and becoming anxious by focusing only on results, this distinction is particularly important.

What you can do is today’s effort, this moment’s choices, and compassion for the person in front of you. But please recognize that there are aspects beyond your control when it comes to others’ evaluations, societal changes, and ultimate results.

When you acquire this wisdom, life becomes much easier. You can focus on making efforts and become less affected by the ups and downs of results. Even people who cannot act due to fear of failure will come to think, “If I do human affairs exhaustively, that’s enough.”

In modern society, the idea that “effort always pays off” is too strong, leading people to blame themselves when it doesn’t. But the value of effort is not determined by results alone. The process of your sincere engagement is already an irreplaceable treasure. So please feel confident and face what you can do today with all your might.