Normally, when we think of a “wise person,” we imagine someone well-versed in the laws of nature or society, capable of making unerring judgments. For instance, there are experts—wise individuals—in the fields of politics, economics, or meteorology.

However, the “wise person” described here is not an expert in such external fields. Rather, it refers to someone who truly knows themselves and is never unsettled or led astray by the influences of the outside world.

“Know Thyself” and the Eight Winds

As Socrates famously said, “Know thyself.” This is the core intent and the essential point of remaining unswayed by the “Eight Winds.” A person who masters this is not merely a “wise person” regarding specific, partial problems, but can truly be a “wise person” regarding all aspects of life.

• Humanity over Isolation: Being unswayed by the Eight Winds does not mean we should cut off all external connections or influences. As long as we live as human beings, such connections are unavoidable.

• The Danger of a Closed Heart: If one were to simply close their heart off from the world, it would only serve to suppress and stifle their humanity, rendering life a dry, flavorless desert.

An Active Stance Toward Life

The crucial point is that this is not an invitation to a passive or closed-off existence. Instead, it is about knowing and establishing one’s true self, and from that solid foundation, adopting an active posture—one that allows you to magnanimously and leisurely enjoy the changing waves and tides of life.

The Meaning of “Heavenly Protection”

The concept that “Heaven will protect you” signifies that all external phenomena and events begin to work in your favor.

When you stand upon a firm sense of self and deal with matters proactively, you gain the power to transform external circumstances to your advantage and utilize them for your growth. When this happens, the external world itself, in fact, begins to change.