Chinese is a language rich in layered symbolism and meaning. To translate Zhong Xin Dao into English as ‘The Neutral Way’ or ‘Middle Way’ would be an oversimplification. Here is a list of applicable interpretations:
Zhong – 中 – zhōng
1. center, middle, inside, heart
2. central
3. in the midst, in the process, in the middle, in the course, throughout
4. moderate, medium, intermediary
5. neutral
6. hit (target)
7. attain
8. to hit the mark, to hit the target, to be correct, to be successful
Xin – 心 – xīn
1. mind, heart, spirit, soul; thoughts, ideas
2. attention, mind, interest, intention
3. heart, inner feelings, emotion, emotional state
4. wholeheartedness, sincerity, true heart
5. sympathy, heart, consideration, generous disposition
6. meaning, center, core, essence; answer (as to a riddle)
7. heart, mind, core; spirit, vitality; inner strength, marrow
Dao – 道 -dào
1. word
2. way, path, road
3. method, way
4. the way