The Significance of Work: A Comparison of Spiritual Calling and Pragmatic Approach

Currently, I am in the process of translating an ancient divinatory text known as The Creation Key. This text, annotated by Xu Lewu during the War of Liberation and last republished in 1966, has been a source of fascination for me. Amidst the translation, a particular phrase stands out: “food and clothes.”

The Creation Key uses the phrase “food and clothes” to delineate different individuals and their life paths as revealed by their astrological charts. This concept sheds light on the connection between work and life according to the charts.

In the region where I reside, the former Calvinist colonies of North America, there exists a prevalent belief in the notion of a higher calling. This belief is prominently reflected in the portrayal of the midheaven as the pinnacle of one’s natal chart.

Calvinists viewed an authentic vocation as a divine calling bestowed by God Himself. This perspective led to the glorification of work within the religion. Devotion to work was not merely about labor but about engaging in elevated forms of work that involved intellectual pursuits over manual labor.

However, this idealistic view of work often instills anxiety in individuals. The emphasis on work as an individual, spiritual calling can lead to a sense of perfectionism and self-judgment.

Unlike the spiritual connotations attached to work in Calvinism, the practice of bazi offers a more pragmatic approach. In bazi, work is seen as a means to sustain oneself and contribute to the community. It is about providing essentials like food and clothes.

Assessing whether one’s work enables them to support themselves and their family is crucial in understanding the nourishing aspect of work. Similarly, evaluating one’s role within the community and the opportunity for learning and teaching helps in determining the significance of one’s work.

Recognition for contributions to society, the ability to pursue personal interests, and the adaptability of skills to a changing environment are key aspects examined in bazi analysis.

While initially skeptical of the pragmatic approach of bazi, the realization dawned upon me that these considerations are essential in defining one’s societal role and spiritual fulfillment. The practical questions posed by bazi delve deep into the individual’s connection to society and spirituality.

Ultimately, The Creation Key underscores the importance of work providing sustenance and dignity. The ability to nourish oneself through work and find a sense of recognition and self-worth is fundamental.

In its discussions, The Creation Key highlights two common imbalances in work: ungrounded aspirations and the pursuit of titles for superficial validation. These imbalances are further elaborated upon in the following sections.