The Huangdi Neijing
Interpretation of the Classic of Suwen
Volume One
【Original Text】
In the summer months, this is called fan xiu (繁秀)1, when the qi of heaven and earth interacts, and all things flourish and bear fruit. One should sleep at night and rise early, not weary of the long days2, allowing the spirit to be free of anger, enabling the flowers and fruits to flourish3, and allowing the qi to be released, as if one’s affections are outside4. This is the response of summer qi and the way to nourish and promote growth5. To go against this will harm the heart, leading to phlegm and pestilence in autumn6, with few who can receive it, and serious illness in winter solstice7.
【Notes】
1 Fan xiu (繁秀):Flourishing and beautiful. According to Yu Bing’s notes: “Fan means abundant and prosperous. Xiu means flower and beauty.””
In the Classic of Categories, Volume Four, Note:
2Not weary of the long days:Do not dislike the long days. One should not be lazy during this time.”
3Allowing the flowers and fruits to flourish:Wang Bing’s notes: “When yang qi is gentle, things transform, … and when things transform, flowers and fruits flourish.” In the second volume of Tai Su, the note on nourishing: “Allow all things to flourish.” In the Classic of Categories, Volume Two, Note Four: “When the spirit is free of anger, flowers and fruits flourish. Flowers and fruits refer to the spirit and qi.””Three meanings coexist, and the later explanation seems lengthy, so I follow this.
4As if one’s affections are outside:Describes a spirit that is outwardly focused, with a relaxed disposition and strong interest in surrounding matters. This contrasts with the winter months’ “if there are private intentions, if there is already gain.”
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