In ancient texts, the term "Retreating to the Mountains" (归岫 - Gui Xiu) is mostly used to describe the act of living in seclusion or returning to the mountains and forests. Here, "Gui" (归) means to return, and "Xiu" (岫) refers to a mountain cave or cavern, which is extended to mean a mountain. This term carries different meanings and cultural backgrounds in various contexts.
Literally, "Gui Xiu" can be understood as returning to a cave or dwelling in the mountains. In ancient China, many scholars chose to retreat to the mountains and forests, living a life aloof from worldly success to escape secular disturbances and political struggles. Therefore, "Gui Xiu" became a symbolic expression of their desire to do so.
In traditional Chinese culture, "Gui Xiu" contains profound cultural connotations:
In actual life, "Gui Xiu" does not necessarily refer to living as a hermit in the mountains in the true sense, but rather serves as a manifestation of a mental state or attitude toward life. For example, in modern society, people might choose to stay away from the noisy city life and seek spiritual peace and tranquility in the countryside or remote areas. This can also be seen as a modern version of "Gui Xiu."
In literary works, "Gui Xiu" is often used to depict the side of a character's personality that is indifferent to fame and wealth and pursues inner peace. Many famous poets have created poetry with this theme, such as Tao Yuanming's Returning to Dwell in Gardens and Fields (Gui Yuan Tian Ju). By describing the story of the protagonist giving up fame and fortune to return to the countryside or mountains, they convey a yearning for a simple and unadorned lifestyle.
In summary, "Gui Xiu" is not just a simple combination of words; it carries rich historical and cultural information and profound philosophical thinking. Whether as a life attitude or a spiritual pursuit, "Gui Xiu" reflects the Chinese people's emphasis on the concept of harmonious coexistence with nature and their unremitting exploration of an ideal state of existence.
Although "Gui Xiu" does not appear directly in the Almanac (Huangli), in daily life, people still refer to similar concepts when making decisions. For example:
When considering retirement living arrangements, some people might choose to return to their hometown or rural areas to live a more nature-oriented, peaceful, and content life. This can be seen as a modern version of "Gui Xiu."
When making important decisions such as career planning or family relocation, some people also consult the Almanac to find the best timing, hoping to achieve twice the result with half the effort by following the laws of heaven and earth.
In conclusion, although "Gui Xiu" is not strictly an Almanac term, the cultural significance it contains coincides with the life philosophy advocated by the Almanac. Both emphasize complying with natural laws and pursuing inner peace and harmony in life.
