withered trees and cold ash; detached and desireless person; lifeless person
A yojijukugo from a classical Chinese story. Literally describes a state of complete detachment from worldly desires, like dead trees and cold ashes. Figuratively refers to a person who is emotionally dead or has no vitality.
He leads a life as detached as withered trees and cold ashes.
It is difficult to reach the state of mind like withered trees and cold ashes.
無欲 means simply 'unselfish' or 'free from greed', while 枯木死灰 implies a more profound, almost lifeless detachment from all desires and emotions.
A yojijukugo derived from a classical Chinese story, where a sage describes his state of mind as being like dead ashes and withered trees, completely detached from worldly concerns.