Juyongguan Pass [Photo by Yang Dong, provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
The Great Wall, a remarkable feat of the Chinese nation, was once misunderstood as a symbol of isolation. However, it serves complex and multifaceted purposes. Its construction was not solely for defense, but also served as a corridor between its interior and exterior, facilitating communication through numerous passes like Shanhaiguan Pass and Juyongguan Pass. These passes played a pivotal role in trade and ethnic integration, highlighting the interconnectedness of the Great Wall.
The Great Wall's enclosure was a means rather than an end, with its core purpose being to ensure safety. This resembles the controlled access of modern highways, which aim to establish order and address safety issues through regulated entry. The aspiration for peace shared by those within and beyond the Great Wall embodies the ancient societies' vision of a community with a shared future. Through its construction, the Chinese nation showcases the wisdom of preparedness in times of peace, striving to avert the humanitarian catastrophes of war and pursue a blissful life of tranquility and contentment. The Great Wall is not merely a physical defense; it is a bond of national unity, a testament to civilization's quest for peace and security.
From：chinadaily.com.cn
