Japanese meaning of 無為自然

Reading:
むいしぜん (mui shizen)

English Translation:

Non-action in harmony with nature

Meaning & Cultural Context

Meaning:


Non-action in harmony with nature

Cultural Context:


Daoist philosophy; referenced in environmentalism and minimalist living.

Grammar & Learning Points

Grammar Point

• Noun phrase showing natural inaction; often with “の境地.”

Trap for English Speakers

May be confused with negligence.

Example

Basic Example

彼は無為自然の生活を理想としている。

He regards a life of non-action in harmony with nature as ideal.


Applied Example

無為自然の境地で、老人は山の流れに身を委ねていた。

In a state of Non-action in harmony with nature, the old man let himself be carried by the mountain stream.