"Come back to the root, great wisdom"

Author: Wei Jin Feng
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-09-01
Features: After 500 years, it remains timeless, becoming more flavorful with each rereading. It collects 600 pieces, distilling the essence of wisdom, revealing deeper truths the more one contemplates. Chew on the roots of vegetables, and one can accomplish all things. It is a mirror for words and deeds, a sanctuary for the soul. The Art of Eating Vegetables is a medicinal cure. The ancients praised its effects as follows: [Those eager for quick success and fame who read it may find it as refreshing as a cooling herbal tea; those lacking vigor may find it as invigorating as a brain-boosting ointment.] The Art of Eating Vegetables expresses the insights and experiences of a philosopher from over 400 years ago on how to conduct oneself, cultivate one's character, and pursue learning, as well as family teachings. It reflects the unique perspectives of people at that time on life, human nature, and interpersonal relationships. Although modern people differ from ancient ones in thought, concepts, and methods, they can still find profound inspiration in The Art of Eating Vegetables when seeking ways to cultivate their character, guidelines for behavior, strategies for business, or discernment in politics. Its wisdom remains undimmed by the passage of time.
The Art of Eating Vegetables, also known as The Treatise on Conduct and Self-Cultivation, was written by Hong Yingming during the Ming Dynasty. Hong Yingming, styled Zicheng, was also known as the "Return-to-Original Taoist." Little is known about his birth and death dates or his life story, as these details are now lost to history. The ancients used the metaphor of "chewing vegetable roots" to describe a life of hardship. Vegetables, being common in daily life, must have deep roots to develop a rich flavor. The roots symbolize the foundation of life, so the name The Art of Eating Vegetables signifies a philosophical discussion on the fundamental truths of life.
The author has compiled over 600 original passages from various versions of The Art of Eating Vegetables to create The Great Wisdom of Eating Vegetables, which is the most comprehensive edition published to date. It is divided into four parts: Self-Cultivation, Social Conduct, Profound Principles, and Meditative Reflections. Each original passage is given a title, translated into modern Chinese, and accompanied by commentary. Some key content is further explained through modern stories and case studies, demonstrating the book's systematic approach while making it accessible to readers. Additionally, the book includes over 300 classical Chinese aphorisms and proverbs, as well as over 200 famous ancient Chinese paintings of landscapes, figures, and flowers and birds. These additions significantly enrich the book's content, allowing readers to not only read the words of the ancients but also hear their voices and admire their art—what a delightful experience!