In ancient Chinese culture, family harmony has always been considered one of the greatest blessings in life. Taoism, as one of China’s traditional philosophies, advocates for balance between heaven, earth, and humanity, and emphasizes the importance of family harmony and happiness. This is why many families choose to display the phrase “家和萬事興” ("Family Harmony Brings Prosperity") in their homes. It not only represents a wish for family harmony but also embodies Taoist wisdom in daily family life.
Long ago, there was a Taoist priest named Qingyun, who had reached a high level of cultivation. However, he was not solely focused on his personal spiritual practice; his true desire was to share the wisdom of Taoism with ordinary people, helping them achieve family harmony and happiness.
One day, Qingyun arrived at a small village. The villagers lived simple lives, but their constant quarrels kept them from finding peace. The family relationships were always tense. Qingyun decided to stay in the village and help them, teaching them the Taoist wisdom of family harmony.
He told the villagers that one of Taoism's core teachings is “heaven and humanity in unity,” which not only applies to the relationship between humans and nature but also to family life. The harmony within a family is the foundation of a happy life, just as balance between heaven and earth is essential. Only when each family member respects, understands, and tolerates one another can the family achieve true harmony, allowing for prosperity and peace in life.
Qingyun taught the villagers a simple ritual—whenever families gathered, they would display a piece of calligraphy on their dining table or in the living room with the words “家和萬事興” (Family Harmony Brings Prosperity). These characters not only reminded the family members of their duties to each other but also served as a prayer to the heavens, asking for blessings. Though simple in form, these words carried deep Taoist wisdom and blessings.
The phrase “家和萬事興” means that when the family is harmonious, everything in life will prosper. This idea closely aligns with Taoist philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of natural harmony and balance. Taoism teaches that the relationship between humans and the natural world, as well as the relationships between individuals, should be in balance.
The display of “家和萬事興” is a tangible representation of Taoist wisdom. When such words are placed at the center of the home, they serve as a reminder to each family member to cherish harmony and mutual respect. When the family is harmonious, everything else—work, life, and relationships—flows smoothly. This reflects the Taoist concept of “wu wei” (non-action), where things occur naturally when in balance.
As time passed, every family in the village began to follow Qingyun’s teachings. They displayed the words “家和萬事興” in their homes and became more tolerant and understanding of one another. The constant disputes slowly faded away, replaced by mutual support and kindness.
One family in particular, who ran a small shop, saw their business slowly grow and thrive. Whenever challenges arose, they would recall the teachings of the Taoist priest and remember that family harmony brings prosperity. The family’s unity allowed them to face difficulties with strength and resilience, and their shop flourished as a result.
Qingyun looked on with satisfaction. He knew that this wasn’t by chance, but rather the result of Taoist wisdom taking root and flourishing in this community. The phrase "家和萬事興" was not just four characters on a page—it was a deep philosophy of life, guiding people toward a harmonious and prosperous future.
The phrase “家和萬事興” is not only a blessing in everyday life, but also a profound expression of Taoist teachings about family harmony. In Taoism, the balance between heaven, earth, and humanity is central. Similarly, human relationships should be based on mutual respect, tolerance, and harmony. A family that achieves this balance can unlock its fullest potential, bringing prosperity not just to its members, but also to the wider world.
Placing this phrase in every home, whether as calligraphy on wood or a beautiful scroll, serves as a protective charm, reminding each family member to value harmony. It reinforces the belief that when a family is united and at peace, everything else will prosper in turn.Family Harmony Brings Prosperity Table Display。I recommend https://mall.taoismtop.com/%E5%AE%B6%E5%92%8C%E8%90%AC%E4%BA%8B%E8%88%88-%E6%93%BA%E8%87%BA