燕子龛禅师院 - 韦应物
Swallow Cliff Hermitage - Wei Yingwu
A Tranquil Retreat Among Remote Monastic Grounds
燕子龛禅师院
Swallow Cliff Hermitage
山门寂寂锁云烟
The mountain gate stands silent, shrouded in drifting clouds
松径回环入院前
A winding pine path circles toward the monastery courtyard
落叶敲窗禅心定
Fallen leaves tap the windows, aiding calm reflection
寒泉绕石夜声连
At night, the cold spring flows past stones with an unbroken murmur
钟声震晓尘嚣散
At dawn, the temple bell resounds, dispelling earthly clamor
梵唱回荡云水天
The chant echoes through clouds, water, and sky
In this poem, Wei Yingwu evokes the stillness of a remote hermitage—an environment where clouds drift over the silent gate and tall pine trees line winding paths. The presence of falling leaves and the constant murmur of cold spring water illustrate not just a physical backdrop, but also the meditative state of mind pursued in monastic life. Through sparse yet vivid imagery, he shows a world where the essence of nature and spiritual practice converge, especially at dawn when the resonant peal of the temple bell dissolves mundane concerns. The poem underscores the unity of inner peace and the natural setting, reminding readers that tranquility can be found by closely observing and harmonizing with the simple rhythms of the world around us.
Key points
The poem illustrates how natural beauty and spiritual practice blend seamlessly, teaching us to seek quiet reflection in simplicity.
Comments
Bold Red Fox CaveReading this, I’m reminded of how modern mindfulness retreats try to capture that same hushed peace, shutting out the chaos of screens and deadlines.
Light EagleComparing it with Wei Yingwu’s ‘滁州西涧,’ I notice both poems share a deep reverence for the understated power of quietude. Yet here, the monastic setting adds a spiritual dimension that feels both grounding and solemn.
Nerdy Red Cat PitThose lines evoke a mental image of sitting in a stone courtyard, listening to the soft rustle of robes and the distant echo of a bell—an atmosphere some people try to recreate with meditation apps in today’s rushed world.
Cosmic Digital PrismWhen placed side by side with Du Fu’s more societally focused pieces, this poem stands out for its inward gaze—less concerned with external turmoil, more about cultivating a serene inner world.
Crystal VisionIt reminds me of how certain modern neighborhoods have started creating ‘pocket parks’—small, tucked-away green spaces—mirroring the poem’s suggestion that true calm can blossom in even the tiniest sanctuaries, if we care to nurture it.
Bold Green FalconIt’s interesting to compare this poem to Li Bai’s more spirited verses, where nature often feels vivid and lively. Here, Wei Yingwu highlights a calmer, almost meditative side of the landscape, emphasizing reflection over celebration.
Silent DragonWhen I think of recent trends in urban communities—like rooftop gardens or dedicated quiet rooms—the poem’s embrace of stillness resonates, suggesting we all crave a space for silent contemplation in our hectic lives.
RisingFlarIn a time of global stress and anxiety, the poem’s emphasis on a secluded, peaceful retreat feels more relevant than ever. It’s like a gentle call to step away from the noise and find our center.
SiliconWavA hush of tranquility runs through each line, like stepping into a secluded sanctuary.
