Through the Dynasties · LD3

Zhou

Feudal hierarchies and the Hundred Schools of Thought

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Classical Poetry

Orthodox classical Chinese poetry spanning archaic ballads to Tang regulated verse.46 works
  1. Classic of Poetry · Guan Ju (Ospreys Cry)Anonymous (Zhou Dynasty) · Four-Character VerseGuan-guan cry the ospreys, upon the river islet. The gentle, modest maiden, a fine mate for a noble gentleman.
  2. Classic of Poetry · Jian Jia (Reeds and Rushes)Anonymous (Qin State) · Four-Character VerseReeds and rushes grow thick and green, white dew turns to frost. The one of whom I think is across the water.
  3. Classic of Poetry · Tao Yao (The Peach Tree in Bloom)Anonymous (Zhou Dynasty) · Four-Character VerseGraceful is the blooming peach tree, dazzling are its blossoms. This maiden goes to her marriage, bringing harmony to home and family.
  4. Classic of Poetry · Cai Wei (Gathering Vetch)Anonymous (Zhou Soldier) · Four-Character VerseLong ago when I set out, the willows swayed tenderly. Now as I return, the snow drifts thick and heavy.
  5. Classic of Poetry · Fa Tan (Chopping Hardwood)Anonymous (Wei State Laborers) · Four-Character VerseYou neither sow nor reap, why seize three hundred stacks of grain? Those lords never eat the bread of idleness!
  6. Classic of Poetry · Shuo Shu (Big Rat)Anonymous (Wei Peasants) · Four-Character VerseI swear to leave you and go to that happy land; happy land, where at last I shall find my true home.
  7. Songs of Chu · Li Sao (On Encountering Sorrow)Qu Yuan · Chu ElegiesThe road ahead is long and far; I will search high and low throughout heaven and earth.
  8. Songs of Chu · She Jiang (Crossing the River)Qu Yuan · Chu ElegiesSo long as my soul is upright and true, what harm is there in distant banishment!
  9. Songs of Chu · Guo Shang (Hymn to the Fallen)Qu Yuan · Chu ElegiesThough the body be dead the spirit is divine; courageous souls remain heroes among ghosts!
  10. Classic of Poetry · Seventh MonthAnonymous (Bin Farmers) · Four-Character VerseIn the seventh month crickets in the fields, in the eighth under the eaves, in the ninth at the door, in the tenth under my bed. Alas for us farmers! Our crops gathered, we go up to serve in the ruler's halls.
  11. Classic of Poetry · The PeasantAnonymous (Woman of Wei) · Four-Character VerseSolemn were your sworn pledges, never imagining you would turn back. That you broke them was unthought of—now all is ended!
  12. Classic of Poetry · Deer CryAnonymous (Zhou Court Musician) · Four-Character VerseYu-yu cry the deer, grazing on wild artemisia. I have honored guests; strum the zithers, blow the mouth-organs. Blow reed pipes and vibrate tongues, presenting baskets of gifts. Those who love me show me the great Dao of Zhou.
  13. Classic of Poetry · No RobesAnonymous (Qin Warriors) · Four-Character VerseWho says we have no robes? I will share my battle cloak with you. The King raises his hosts; let us repair spears and lances. Together we share the enemy!
  14. Classic of Poetry · Beating DrumsAnonymous (Soldier of Wei) · Four-Character VerseIn death and in life, apart or together, with you I pledged my vow: Taking your hand, I would grow old alongside you. Alas, so far sundered, we cannot rejoin; alas, how long apart, my pledge can never be fulfilled.
  15. Classic of Poetry · PlantainsAnonymous (Zhou Nan Gathering Women) · Four-Character VerseGather the plantains, truly gather them! Gather the plantains, truly take them! Gather the plantains, pluck them leaf by leaf; gather the plantains, strip them stem by stem!
  16. Chuci · Nine Songs · Lady of the Xiang RiverQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesThe divine daughter descends upon the northern islet, gazing far away my heart is filled with sorrow. Gently sighs the autumn breeze; waves ripple across Dongting Lake as trees shed their leaves.
  17. Chuci · Nine Songs · Mountain GoddessQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesThere seems to be someone in the folds of the mountain, cloaked in fig creeper and belted with dodder. With sidelong glances and sweet smiles, you admire my graceful beauty.
  18. Chuci · Nine Declarations · Ode to the Orange TreeQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesNoble tree blessed by Heaven and Earth, the orange tree adapts and thrives. Mandated never to relocate, born to flourish in the southern realm. Deep-rooted and immovable, steadfast with singleness of mind; green leaves and white blossoms delight the eye.
  19. Chuci · Divining Where to DwellQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesA foot has its short measure, an inch its long advantage; things have their deficiencies, wisdom its blind spots; divination cannot calculate all, spirits cannot penetrate all. Follow your own heart and pursue your own purpose—tortoise shells and milfoil stalks cannot resolve your dilemma.
  20. Chuci · The FishermanQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesThe whole world is turbid and I alone am clean; all men are intoxicated and I alone am sober—for this was I banished. How could I allow my spotlessly clean body to suffer the muddy defilement of worldly filth?
  21. Nine Arguments · ExcerptSong Yu · Chu ElegiesHow sorrowful is the breath of autumn! Rustling and bleak, vegetation withers and decays. Chilled to the soul as if journeying far, climbing mountains and overlooking rivers to see off departing friends.
  22. Classic of Poetry · Odes of Yong · Galloping ForthLady Mu of Xu · Four-Character VerseI galloped fast and drove swiftly home to comfort the Lord of Wei. My horses sped untiringly until reaching Cao; the noble ministers pursued and hindered me, weighing heavy sorrow upon my heart.
  23. Classic of Poetry · Odes of Bei · Spring WaterLady Mu of Xu · Four-Character VerseGurgling flows the spring water into the Qi River. Longing for my home state of Wei, not a day passes without pining thoughts; turning to my companions of the Ji clan, I consult with them on my yearning journey.
  24. Classic of Poetry · Greater Odes · King WenAnonymous · Four-Character VerseKing Wen dwells on high, radiant in the heavens. Though Zhou is an ancient state, its Heavenly Mandate is ever renewed. Is Zhou not glorious? The Lord's mandate is ever timely. King Wen ascends and descends, forever at the right hand of God on High.
  25. Classic of Poetry · Greater Odes · Birth of the PeopleAnonymous · Four-Character VerseThe first ancestor who gave birth to our people was Jiang Yuan. How did she give birth? She prayed with pure sacrifices that she might not be barren; treading in the toe-print of God on High, she was moved with spiritual grace, conceiving and bearing Houji, the Lord of Millet.
  26. Classic of Poetry · Greater Odes · Spreading VinesAnonymous · Four-Character VerseSpreading endlessly are melon vines. When our people first arose along the Ju and Qi rivers, Lord Gugong Danfu lived in earthen kiln-caves before houses existed. In the morning Gugong Danfu galloped his steeds, leading his clan along the western riverbanks to settle beneath Mount Qi.
  27. Classic of Poetry · Greater Odes · ReversalLord of Fan · Four-Character VerseGod on High has reversed His favor, and the common people suffer affliction. Official decrees lack truth and policies lack foresight. Sages are ignored and my warnings unheeded, while slanderous flatterers foster future catastrophe!
  28. Classic of Poetry · Greater Odes · RestraintDuke Wu of Wei · Four-Character VerseDignified and imposing deportment is the outward manifestation of inner virtue. Ancient folk have said: 'Even the wisest have their foolish moments.' A flaw in a white jade scepter may still be ground away; but a flaw in one's spoken words can never be undone!
  29. Classic of Poetry · Greater Odes · MightyDuke Mu of Shao · Four-Character VerseMighty is God on High, sovereign over mortal folk. Terrible in majesty, His mandates brook no defiance. People are born into this realm, yet human nature is rarely constant. None does not begin well, yet few can see things through to noble ends! The mirror for Yin is not far off—it lies in the bygone age of Xia!
  30. Classic of Poetry · Hymns of Zhou · The Pure TempleAnonymous · Four-Character VerseAh, solemn and pure is the ancestral temple, dignified and reverent are the assisting ministers. The multitude of talented officers uphold King Wen's virtue, responding to his spirit in Heaven, swiftly hastening in the temple halls. Ever glorious and continually inherited, never shall his memory fade among men!
  31. Classic of Poetry · Hymns of Zhou · The Mandate of HeavenAnonymous · Four-Character VerseThe Mandate of Heaven, ah, how endlessly profound and unceasing! Ah, how gloriously bright, how pure is the virtue of King Wen! Bestowing abundant favor upon us, we gratefully receive it; walking in the benevolence of King Wen, his distant descendants hold fast to it.
  32. Classic of Poetry · Praise Odes of Lu · The Secluded TempleXi Si · Four-Character VerseThe secluded temple is solemn and still, massive and solid in stone and timber. Illustrious was Jiang Yuan, whose virtue never swerved. Relying on God on High, free from calamity and harm. May the Lord of Lu prosper thus, guarding the eastern realm forever!
  33. Classic of Poetry · Lesser Odes · Cherry BlossomsDuke of Zhou · Four-Character VerseBlossoms of the cherry tree, how radiant in clustered glory! Among all people of our present world, none equals the bond of brothers. Brothers may squabble within the courtyard walls, yet united they repel assault from outside. Though you may have good friends, none will rush to your aid when peril strikes!
  34. Classic of Poetry · Lesser Odes · Luxuriant ArtocarpusAnonymous · Four-Character VerseLuxuriant was the artocarpus, yet it proved mere bitter wormwood. Sorrowful, sorrowful were my parents, toiling in bitter hardship to bear me! Father gave me life, Mother nurtured me: stroking me, feeding me, raising me, educating me, caring for me, shielding me in their arms. Wishing to repay their boundless virtue—it is limitless as the vast heavens!
  35. Classic of Poetry · Lesser Odes · Crane CryingAnonymous · Four-Character VerseThe crane cries in the ninefold marsh, its voice resounding across the wild plains. Fish dive deep into pools, or swim resting near the islet. Joyous is that garden, planted with fine sandalwood trees and fallen leaves beneath. The stones of other mountains can serve to polish jade.
  36. Classic of Poetry · Lesser Odes · Mount Nan Has SedgesAnonymous · Four-Character VerseSouth Mountain has lush sedges, North Mountain has pigweeds. Joyful is the noble lord, cornerstone of state and clan! Joyful is the noble lord, granted boundless longevity! South Mountain has mulberries, North Mountain has poplars. Joyful is the noble lord, glorious radiance of state and clan!
  37. Nine Songs · The Great Sovereign of the EastQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesOn an auspicious day and glorious hour, reverently we rejoice the supreme God on High. Grasping long swords with jade guards, pendants clink with ringing chimes. On jade mats adorned with gems, we present fragrant celestial blossoms; steaming orchid dishes and pouring cinnamon wine and pepper nectar.
  38. Nine Songs · The Lord Among the CloudsQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesBathing in orchid waters, washing hair in fragrance, dressed in multicolored robes radiant as flowers. The spirit descends and lingers in graceful curves, brilliantly blazing without end. Resting serenely in the Hall of Longevity, shining with equal splendor alongside the sun and moon.
  39. Nine Songs · The Goddess/God of the Xiang RiverQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesYou come not, hesitating; whom do you linger with upon the middle islet? Beautiful, delicate, and gracefully adorned, I ride swift in my cassia skiff. Commanding the Yuan and Xiang rivers to calm their waves, making river currents glide peacefully. Gazing for my beloved who arrives not: playing the panpipes, for whom do I yearn?
  40. Nine Songs · The Great Master of FateQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesWide open swings the celestial Gate of Heaven; swarming with power I ride upon dark clouds. Ordering rushing gales as my vanguard, commanding pelting showers to lay the dust. The Lord wheels soaring down to earth, passing Kongsang as he descends from Heaven. Who decides right and wrong? Who decrees life and death?
  41. Nine Songs · The Lesser Master of FateQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesAutumn orchids and sweet clover flourish in rows below the hall. Emerald leaves and white blossoms waft rich fragrances embracing me. No sorrow is more sorrowful than parting in life; no joy is more joyful than finding a new kindred soul!
  42. Nine Declarations · Lament for YingQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesGreat Heaven's mandates are inconstant; why are the common people struck with disaster? The populace is scattered and lost, driven eastward in mid-spring. Leaving my ancestral home for distant realms, following the Jiang and Xia rivers in exile. Passing through the capital gates with an aching heart, on the dawn of Jia I began my journey.
  43. Nine Declarations · Crossing the RiverQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesFrom youth I delighted in this wondrous attire, unfading even as old age arrives. Girding a gleaming long sword, wearing a lofty cloud-cutting cap. Draped in radiant pearls and bearing precious gems. The world is turbid and understands me not, yet I soar high without looking back!
  44. Nine Declarations · Embracing the SandQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesSweltering is early summer as plants and trees grow dense and lush. Mournful heart in eternal grief, drifting onward to southern lands. Gazing into dim vastness, deeply quiet and silent. Knowing that death cannot be avoided, I hold no clinging love for life. Proclaiming openly to noble gentlemen: I take ancient martyrs as my eternal companions!
  45. Questions to HeavenQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesAt the primordial beginning of remote antiquity, who was there to transmit the account? When Heaven and Earth had not yet taken form, how could they be examined? When light and dark were merged in chaos, who could probe their origin? Whirling formless primordial mist—how can it be comprehended? Where are the sun and moon attached? How are the arrays of stars arranged?
  46. Summons of the SoulQu Yuan · Chu ElegiesO soul, return! Leaving your abiding body, why wander to the four quarters? Forsaking your joyful abode to risk those perilous perils! O soul, return! In the East you cannot dwell: giants of a thousand fathoms seek only to consume souls. O soul, return! In the South you cannot stay: tattooed foreheads and blackened teeth feast on flesh for sacrifice and pound bones into paste!

Rhapsody & Parallel Prose

Grand rhapsodies and parallel prose showcasing acoustic symmetry and ornate eloquence.4 works
  1. Rhapsody on the WindSong Yu · Grand Han RhapsodiesThe wind arises from the tips of green duckweed, spreads through ravines and valleys, gathers force, roars through mountain gorges, and then arrives at the Lantai terrace.
  2. Rhapsody on Master Dengtu the LecherSong Yu · Grand Han RhapsodiesOf all the beauties in the world, none rivals Chu; in Chu none rivals my town; in my town none rivals my eastern neighbor's daughter. An inch added she would be too tall, an inch subtracted too short; powdered she would be too fair, rouged too red.
  3. Rhapsody on the Divine MaidenSong Yu · Grand Han RhapsodiesHer countenance lush and dignified in beauty, enveloped in the lustrous warmth of jade. Her radiant eyes shine wide and clear, the consummate grace of a gentle maiden. Stepping slowly through misty silks, long sleeves fluttering in graceful rhythm.
  4. Rhapsody on GaotangSong Yu · Grand Han RhapsodiesIn past days our former King toured Gaotang; growing tired he slept by day, dreaming of a woman who said: 'I am the maiden of Mount Wu, a guest at Gaotang. Hearing you visit here, I offer pillow and mat.' The King favored her. Departing, she said: 'I dwell upon the sunny heights of Mount Wu; at dawn I am the morning cloud, at dusk the drifting rain. Morning after morning, evening after evening, beneath the Yangtai terrace.'

Classical Prose

Authoritative classical prose from Pre-Qin philosophers to Tang-Song prose masters.37 works
  1. Zhuangzi: Free and Easy WanderingZhuangzi · Pre-Qin MastersIn the northern darkness there is a fish, named Kun. The Kun is so vast, none knows how many thousand leagues across; transforming into a bird, named Peng. Beating waters for three thousand leagues, it spirals upward on cyclones ninety thousand leagues high.
  2. Zhuangzi: Autumn FloodsZhuangzi · Pre-Qin MastersYou cannot speak of the ocean to a well frog, for it is confined by space; you cannot speak of ice to a summer insect, for it is bound by time; you cannot speak of the Dao to a narrow scholar, for he is shackled by doctrines.
  3. Zhuangzi: Cook Ding Carves the OxZhuangzi · Pre-Qin MastersWhat your servant loves is the Dao, which advances beyond mere craft. Inserting that which has no thickness into spaces with gaps, vast and spacious there is surely ample room for the blade to wander.
  4. Dao De Jing: Essential Chapters on DaoLaozi · Pre-Qin MastersThe Dao that can be spoken is not the eternal Dao; the name that can be named is not the eternal Name. Highest good is like water. Water benefits all things yet contends not, settling in low places men despise, thus it nears the Dao.
  5. Analects: Four Disciples Sitting with ConfuciusConfucius · Pre-Qin MastersIn late spring, spring robes already made, with five or six young men and six or seven boys, to bathe in the Yi River, enjoy the breeze at the Rain Altar, and return home chanting verse. The Master sighed deeply and said: 'I am with Dian!'
  6. Mencius: Fish and Bear's PawMencius · Pre-Qin MastersLife is what I desire; Righteousness is also what I desire. If I cannot possess both, I choose Righteousness over Life.
  7. Mencius: Born in Adversity, Dying in EaseMencius · Pre-Qin MastersThus when Heaven is about to confer a great responsibility upon a person, it first exercises his mind with suffering, toils his sinews, starves his body, subjects him to poverty, and frustrates his endeavors, so as to toughen his will and augment his capabilities. Thus we know that life thrives in adversity and perishes in idle ease.
  8. Xunzi: An Encouragement to LearningXunzi · Pre-Qin MastersLearning must never cease. Indigo is extracted from the blue plant, yet is bluer than indigo; ice is made from water, yet is colder than water. If you carve and then give up, rotten wood will not break; if you carve without stopping, metal and stone can be engraved.
  9. Han Feizi: The Five VerminHan Fei · Pre-Qin MastersWhen eras differ, circumstances differ; when circumstances differ, measures must change. Sages do not expect to practice antiquity, nor follow fixed rules, but analyze current realities to prepare accordingly. To watch the tree trunk waiting for a rabbit makes one the laughingstock of all under heaven.
  10. Sunzi's Art of War: Strategic AttackSun Wu · Pre-Qin MastersSubduing the enemy's army without fighting is the acme of skill. Thus supreme warfare strikes strategy; next strikes alliances; next strikes armies; lowest strikes walled cities. Know yourself and know your enemy, and in a hundred battles you will never be imperiled.
  11. Zuo Zhuan: Cao Gui on WarfareZuo Qiuming · Historical NarrativeThose who eat meat (high officials) are shallow and lack distant foresight. At the first drum battle spirit is roused; with the second it flags; with the third it is exhausted. When their spirit was spent while ours was overflowing, we conquered them.
  12. Zuo Zhuan: Zhu Zhiwu Persuades Qin to WithdrawZuo Qiuming · Historical NarrativeTo leap over another state to make a distant realm your border county—your Lordship knows how difficult that is. Why destroy Zheng merely to enrich your rival neighbor? The strengthening of your neighbor means the weakening of Qin. If you spare Zheng as your eastern host, supplying envoys with whatever they lack, it brings no harm to you.
  13. Zuo Zhuan: Earl of Zheng Overcomes Duan at YanZuo Qiuming · Historical NarrativeHe who commits many unjust deeds will surely bring about his own destruction; pray wait for it! Meeting within an underground tunnel, the joy was harmonious and warm.
  14. Guoyu: Duke of Shao Admonishes King Li Against Suppressing CriticismZuo Qiuming · Historical NarrativeStopping the mouths of the people is more dangerous than damming a flooded river: when river waters are blocked and burst through, casualties will be immense; the people are just the same. Therefore he who manages rivers dredges them to guide flow; he who governs people opens channels to let them speak.
  15. Zhan Guo Ce: Zou Ji Admonishes King of QiZou Ji · Historical NarrativeMinisters, officers, or commoners who point out my faults to my face shall receive highest reward; those who submit written memorials shall receive medium reward; those who voice criticism in public places reaching my ears shall receive lowest reward. Thus Qi conquered rivals inside its own court.
  16. Zhan Guo Ce: Tang Ju Fulfills His MissionWarring States Strategists · Historical NarrativeIf a valiant scholar must rage, it means two corpses lying dead, blood spilling five paces, and all under heaven wearing white mourning—today is that day! Drawing sword he leaped forward. King of Qin lost courage, knelt upright and apologized.
  17. Zhan Guo Ce: Feng Xuan as Guest of Lord MengchangWarring States Strategists · Historical NarrativeA crafty rabbit has three burrows, merely to escape death; now your Lordship has only one burrow, unable to sleep on a high pillow in peace. Pray allow me to dig another two burrows for you.
  18. Zhan Guo Ce: Lu Zhonglian Refuses to Honor Qin as EmperorLu Zhonglian · Historical NarrativeWhat is esteemed in the scholars under heaven is resolving perils, untying difficulties, and settling disputes for others without accepting reward. If one accepts rewards, he is merely a merchant—Zhonglian cannot bear to be such.
  19. Mozi: Universal LoveMozi · Pre-Qin MastersRegard another's country as one's own country, regard another's family as one's own family, regard another's person as one's own person. When all under heaven love each other universally there is order; when they hate each other reciprocally there is chaos.
  20. Mozi: Against Offensive WarMozi · Pre-Qin MastersNow when it comes to the greatest injustice of attacking another state, men know not to condemn it, but praise it and call it righteous. Can this be said to know the difference between righteousness and injustice?
  21. Xunzi: Discourse on NatureXunzi · Pre-Qin MastersNature operates with constant constancy: it exists not for Yao, nor perishes for Jie. Respond to it with sound governance and fortune ensues; respond with disorder and calamity results. Rather than exalting Heaven and longing for it, why not harness natural forces and master them!
  22. Mencius: He Who Has the Dao Finds Abundant SupportMencius · Pre-Qin MastersFavorable climate is not equal to geographical advantages; geographical advantages are not equal to human harmony. He who aligns with the Dao gains abundant support; he who abandons the Dao finds sparse support. At the extreme of sparse support, even kin rebel; at the summit of abundant support, all under heaven submit.
  23. Mencius: On the Affairs of Qi Huan and Jin WenMencius · Pre-Qin MastersTreat the elders of our own family with respect and extend it to elders of others; treat the young of our own family with kindness and extend it to the young of others: then the empire can be turned in the palm of your hand. Extending benevolence suffices to protect the Four Seas; failing to extend benevolence, you cannot protect your own wife and children.
  24. Dao De Jing: Essential Chapters on De (Virtue)Laozi · Pre-Qin MastersGoverning a great state is like cooking a small delicate fish. A tree of great girth springs from a tiny sprout; a terrace nine stories high arises from a heap of earth; a journey of a thousand leagues begins with a single step. Great skill seems clumsy; great eloquence seems halting.
  25. Mencius · Gongsun Chou I (Excerpt)Mencius · Pre-Qin MastersA man of Song, worried that his sprouts were not growing, pulled them up.
  26. Mencius · Jin Xin I (Excerpt)Mencius · Pre-Qin MastersIt spreads through his four limbs, which understand without being told.
  27. Book of Rites · The Great Learning (Excerpt)Anonymous · Pre-Qin MastersWishing to set their hearts right, they first made their intentions sincere; wishing to make their intentions sincere, they first extended their knowledge; and the extension of knowledge lies in investigating things.
  28. The Art of War · Attack by StratagemSun Wu (Sunzi) · Pre-Qin MastersKnow the enemy and know yourself, and in a hundred battles you will never be in peril.
  29. Mencius · Gaozi I (Excerpt)Mencius · Pre-Qin MastersOne day of sun and ten days of cold, and nothing will ever live.
  30. Zhuangzi · On the Equality of Things (Excerpt)Zhuangzi · Pre-Qin MastersOnce Zhuang Zhou dreamed he was a butterfly, fluttering about happily as a butterfly.
  31. Strategies of the Warring States · Chu IV (Excerpt)Liu Xiang (comp.) · Historical NarrativeTo look to the hound after spotting the hare is not too late; to mend the pen after losing the sheep…
  32. Book of Rites · The Doctrine of the Mean (Excerpt)Zisi · Pre-Qin MastersBefore pleasure, anger, sorrow and joy arise, this is called the Mean; when they arise and all strike their proper measure, this is called harmony.
  33. Analects · Gongye Chang (Excerpt)Disciples of Confucius · Pre-Qin MastersHe was quick and loved learning, and not ashamed to ask those beneath him; that is why he was called 'Wen'.
  34. Analects · Duke Ling of Wei (Excerpt)Disciples of Confucius · Pre-Qin MastersIf anyone governed by doing nothing, it was surely Shun!
  35. Analects · Shu Er (Excerpt)Disciples of Confucius · Pre-Qin MastersStoring things up silently, learning without tiring, teaching without weariness.
  36. Han Feizi · Collected Illustrations, Outer Left, Part One (Excerpt)Han Fei · Pre-Qin MastersThe man of Zheng bought the casket and returned the pearl.
  37. Reply to the King of ChuSong Yu · Essays & MemorialsThe loftier the song, the fewer those who can sing along.

Fables & Lore

Philosophical fables, historical allusion narratives, and primordial mythology.42 works
  1. Covering One's Ears to Steal a BellLü Buwei · Philosophers' FablesDeceiving yourself fools no one else; covering your ears does not silence the world.
  2. The Fox Borrows the Tiger's MightLiu Xiang · Historical AllusionsBorrowed authority is hollow; people fear the power behind you, not you.
  3. The Frog in the WellZhuangzi · Philosophers' FablesThose with narrow horizons mistake their little well for the whole world.
  4. Pulling Up Seedlings to Help Them GrowMencius · Philosophers' FablesForcing growth against nature's pace destroys what you hoped to nurture.
  5. The Spear and the ShieldHan Fei · Philosophers' FablesContradictory claims undo themselves; one boast can refute the other.
  6. Drawing Legs on a SnakeLiu Xiang · Historical AllusionsNeedless additions can throw away a victory already in hand.
  7. Learning to Walk in HandanZhuangzi · Philosophers' FablesBlind imitation can make you lose the abilities you already had.
  8. Marking the Boat to Find the SwordLü Buwei · Philosophers' FablesWhen circumstances change, clinging to old methods leads nowhere.
  9. Buying the Casket, Returning the PearlHan Fei · Philosophers' FablesJudging by the wrapping, you may throw away what truly has value.
  10. Heading North to Reach the SouthLiu Xiang · Historical AllusionsWith the wrong direction, every advantage only carries you farther from your goal.
  11. The Man of Qi Who Feared the Sky Would FallLie Yukou · Philosophers' FablesWorrying endlessly over what will not happen only torments yourself.
  12. The Snipe and the ClamLiu Xiang · Historical AllusionsWhen two sides refuse to yield, a third party walks off with the prize.
  13. The Man of Zheng Buys ShoesHan Fei · Philosophers' FablesTrusting rules over reality makes you miss what is right in front of you.
  14. Waiting by the Stump for a HareHan Fei · Philosophers' FablesTreating a lucky accident as a rule, and waiting for it, wastes your real work.
  15. The Mantis Blocking the ChariotZhuangzi · Philosophers' FablesOverestimating yourself against overwhelming force ends in ruin, however brave you are.
  16. Mending the Pen After Losing a SheepLiu Xiang · Historical AllusionsFixing a mistake after it happens is still not too late.
  17. Dong Shi Imitates Xi Shi's FrownZhuangzi · Philosophers' FablesCopying without understanding what makes something beautiful only backfires.
  18. Three Men Make a TigerLiu Xiang · Historical AllusionsRepeated often enough by enough people, a falsehood comes to be believed.
  19. Mr. Nanguo Fills Out the EnsembleHan Fei · Philosophers' FablesFaking competence works only until you must perform alone.
  20. Three in the Morning, Four in the EveningZhuangzi · Philosophers' FablesChange only the framing, not the substance, and people's feelings change anyway.
  21. Fighting Tigers Barehanded, Fording Rivers on FootDisciples of Confucius · Satirical ParablesCourage without judgment is not heroism; careful planning is what succeeds.
  22. Hearsay from the RoadDisciples of Confucius · Satirical ParablesPassing on what you hear without checking it abandons virtue.
  23. You Deceive Me, I Cheat YouZuo Qiuming · Satirical ParablesAmid mutual deception, candor can sometimes be the most powerful move.
  24. The Bird Startled by the BowstringLiu Xiang · Historical AllusionsThose who have been deeply hurt panic at the slightest disturbance.
  25. Holding the Chess Piece UndecidedZuo Qiuming · Satirical ParablesIndecision loses even a board game, let alone matters of great weight.
  26. Cook Ding Carves the OxZhuangzi · Philosophers' FablesFollow the inner structure of things, and even hard work becomes effortless.
  27. The Loftier the Song, the Fewer Who Join InSong Yu · Satirical ParablesThe more refined your vision, the fewer who understand it; don't doubt yourself for that.
  28. Half the Effort, Double the ResultMencius · Philosophers' FablesAlign with people's wishes and the right moment, and little effort brings great results.
  29. Double the Effort, Half the ResultMencius · Philosophers' FablesWith the wrong method or direction, even great effort yields little.
  30. The Mantis Stalks the Cicada, the Oriole Waits BehindLiu Xiang · Historical AllusionsFixed on the prize ahead, you overlook the danger lurking behind you.
  31. In the Same Boat, Crossing TogetherSun Wu · Satirical ParablesWhen fates are bound together, even rivals will work as one.
  32. Putting Oneself in Others' ShoesDisciples of Confucius · Satirical ParablesDo not do to others what you would not want done to yourself.
  33. Sighing Before the Vast OceanZhuangzi · Philosophers' FablesOnly by seeing something vaster do we realize how small we are.
  34. Fifty Steps Mocking a Hundred StepsMencius · Philosophers' FablesIf you share the same fault, don't mock someone who has more of it.
  35. Not Plucking a Single HairMencius · Philosophers' FablesUtter selfishness that yields nothing cuts you off from everyone else.
  36. One Day of Sun, Ten Days of ColdMencius · Philosophers' FablesEffort that runs hot one day and cold for ten never bears fruit.
  37. Throwing an Egg Against a RockMozi · Satirical ParablesAgainst solid reasoning, baseless claims shatter like eggs on stone.
  38. Giving Up Eating for Fear of ChokingLü Buwei · Philosophers' FablesAbandoning everything over one setback is the greater failure.
  39. Ample Room for the BladeZhuangzi · Philosophers' FablesAvoid meeting force with force; find the gaps, and you handle things with ease.
  40. Preparedness Averts PerilAnonymous · Satirical ParablesPrepare in advance, and you can face the unexpected calmly.
  41. The More One Hides, the More It ShowsZuo Qiuming · Satirical ParablesThe harder you try to conceal the truth, the more it comes to light.
  42. Leaving the Altar to Do the Cook's JobZhuangzi · Philosophers' FablesKeep to your own role; don't overstep into others' duties.

Sayings & Idioms

Living Chinese linguistic heritage comprising idioms, proverbs, aphorisms, and couplets.119 works
  1. Jingwei Fills the SeaClassic of Mountains and Seas · IdiomsThe bird Jingwei carries twigs and pebbles to fill the sea; unshakable determination against overwhelming odds.
  2. Kuafu Chases the SunClassic of Mountains and Seas · IdiomsThe giant Kuafu races the sun until he dies of thirst; boundless ambition, or overreaching one's strength.
  3. The Foolish Old Man Moves the MountainsLiezi · IdiomsAn old man digs away at two mountains, undeterred by mockery; perseverance can overcome any obstacle.
  4. Yu the Great Tames the FloodMencius · IdiomsYu the Great channels the floods, passing his own door three times without entering; selfless public service.
  5. The Highest Good Is Like WaterLaozi · IdiomsSupreme goodness is like water, nourishing all things without contending; humble, selfless virtue.
  6. The Way Follows NatureLaozi · IdiomsThe Dao takes what is natural as its model; follow things as they are rather than forcing them.
  7. Governing by Non-ActionConfucius · IdiomsRuling well without forceful intervention, through virtue and by letting things take their natural course.
  8. Great Virtue Carries All ThingsBook of Changes · IdiomsLike the earth, a noble person bears all things with generous virtue; a classic motto of moral cultivation.
  9. Covering One's Ears to Steal a BellLüshi Chunqiu · IdiomsA thief covers his own ears while stealing a bell; fooling oneself while fooling no one else.
  10. The Doctrine of the MeanConfucius · IdiomsThe Confucian way of balance, avoiding excess and deficiency; today also a moderate, compromising attitude.
  11. Investigating Things to Extend KnowledgeGreat Learning · IdiomsProbing the principles of things to attain true knowledge; the first step of Confucian self-cultivation.
  12. Sincere Intentions, Rectified HeartGreat Learning · IdiomsMaking one's intentions sincere and one's heart upright; core steps of Confucian self-cultivation.
  13. Striving Ceaselessly for Self-ImprovementBook of Changes · IdiomsLike heaven's tireless motion, the noble person strives to improve himself without ever slackening.
  14. The Fox Borrows the Tiger's MightStrategies of the Warring States · IdiomsA fox walks ahead of a tiger so beasts flee; bullying others by borrowing someone else's power.
  15. Hair Tied to the Beam, Awl to the ThighStrategies of the Warring States · IdiomsScholars tied their hair to a beam or jabbed their thighs to stay awake; studying with extreme diligence.
  16. The Frog at the Bottom of the WellZhuangzi · IdiomsA frog in a well thinks the sky is as small as the well's mouth; a person of narrow vision.
  17. Pulling Up Seedlings to Help Them GrowMencius · IdiomsA farmer tugs his seedlings upward to speed growth and kills them; haste that defies nature ruins everything.
  18. Tossing and TurningBook of Songs · IdiomsTossing and turning in bed; unable to sleep because of longing or worry.
  19. A Graceful and Virtuous MaidenBook of Songs · IdiomsA lovely, gentle and virtuous young woman; an admirable lady worthy of courtship.
  20. The Spear and the Shield ContradictHan Feizi · IdiomsA man boasts his spear pierces anything and his shield stops everything; self-contradiction in words or deeds.
  21. The One I Long ForBook of Songs · IdiomsThat person of whom I speak; the beloved one longed for but out of reach.
  22. Reviewing the Old to Learn the NewConfucius · IdiomsRevisiting what one has learned yields fresh understanding; also, learning from the past to grasp the present.
  23. Drawing Legs on a SnakeStrategies of the Warring States · IdiomsAdding legs to a drawn snake loses the wager; doing something superfluous that ruins the result.
  24. Learning Enough to Fill Five CartsZhuangzi · IdiomsHaving read enough books to fill five carts; exceptionally erudite and widely read.
  25. A Hundred Shots, a Hundred HitsStrategies of the Warring States · IdiomsYang Youji hit a willow leaf from a hundred paces every time; perfect accuracy, or unfailing judgment.
  26. Giving Up HalfwayDoctrine of the Mean · IdiomsStopping halfway along the road; abandoning a task before it is finished.
  27. Not Ashamed to Ask Those BelowConfucius · IdiomsUnashamed to learn from those of lower status or learning; humble eagerness to learn.
  28. The Uninvited GuestBook of Changes · IdiomsA guest who arrives without being invited.
  29. Self-Evident Without WordsMencius · IdiomsUnderstood without being said; self-evident.
  30. Flying Away Without WingsGuanzi · IdiomsVanishing as if on invisible wings; something suddenly missing, or news spreading rapidly.
  31. Learning to Walk in HandanZhuangzi · IdiomsA youth imitating Handan's gait forgets how to walk; blind imitation that loses one's own abilities.
  32. Marking the Boat to Find the SwordLüshi Chunqiu · IdiomsSticking rigidly to old methods without seeing that circumstances have changed.
  33. Standing Out from One's KindMencius · IdiomsFar surpassing one's peers in character or ability; outstanding.
  34. Braving Life and DeathLaozi · IdiomsRepeatedly risking one's life; braving mortal danger without regard for oneself.
  35. Great Vessels Take Long to MakeLaozi · IdiomsGreat talents mature slowly; people of great ability often achieve success late.
  36. Many Talents and Many ArtsBook of Documents · IdiomsGifted in many fields; versatile and accomplished.
  37. Supporting the Old, Leading the YoungStrategies of the Warring States · IdiomsHelping the elderly and leading the children; whole families turning out together.
  38. Buying the Casket, Returning the PearlHan Feizi · IdiomsValuing outward packaging over real substance; making a foolish choice.
  39. Success Achieved, Fame WonMozi · IdiomsHaving achieved one's goals and won renown.
  40. Driving North to Reach the SouthStrategies of the Warring States · IdiomsActing in a way directly opposed to one's goal, so effort leads further away.
  41. Failing for Want of One BasketBook of Documents · IdiomsFailing just short of success for lack of a final effort.
  42. The Man of Qi Fears the Sky Will FallLiezi · IdiomsNeedless or groundless worry.
  43. Work of Ghostly Axes and Divine CraftZhuangzi · IdiomsCraftsmanship or natural scenery so marvelous it seems beyond human ability.
  44. The Horse That Harms the HerdZhuangzi · IdiomsA person who harms or corrupts the group; a black sheep.
  45. Snipe and Clam Locked in StruggleStrategies of the Warring States · IdiomsWhen two sides fight to a stalemate, a third party reaps the benefit.
  46. The Man of Zheng Buys ShoesHan Feizi · IdiomsTrusting rules and measurements rather than reality; rigid dogmatism.
  47. In Perfect OrderXunzi · IdiomsNeatly organized and in perfect order.
  48. Waiting by the Stump for a HareHan Feizi · IdiomsClinging to a lucky past experience instead of adapting; hoping for gain without effort.
  49. The Old Horse Knows the WayHan Feizi · IdiomsAn experienced person knows the way and can guide others.
  50. A Mantis Blocking a ChariotZhuangzi · IdiomsOverrating oneself and attempting the impossible; doomed resistance.
  51. Fearless in the Face of DangerZhuangzi · IdiomsUnafraid when facing danger.
  52. So Enchanted One Forgets to ReturnMencius · IdiomsSo captivated by a place or pleasure that one forgets to leave.
  53. Mending the Pen after Losing SheepStrategies of the Warring States · IdiomsTaking remedial action after a loss to prevent further damage.
  54. A Thousand Changes, Ten Thousand TransformationsLiezi · IdiomsEndlessly changing; showing countless variations.
  55. Dong Shi Imitates the FrownZhuangzi · IdiomsThe plain Dong Shi copies Xi Shi's frown and looks worse; blind imitation that backfires.
  56. New Every Day, Different Every MonthBook of Rites · IdiomsChanging day by day and month by month; rapid progress.
  57. Like Fire, Like Reed FlowersGuoyu · IdiomsLike red fire and white reed flowers; vigorous, spectacular, and in full swing.
  58. As If Treading on Thin IceBook of Songs · IdiomsAs if walking on thin ice; acting with the utmost caution.
  59. As If Relieved of a Heavy LoadGuliang Commentary · IdiomsAs if a heavy burden were lifted; a feeling of great relief.
  60. Think Thrice Before ActingAnalects · IdiomsThink carefully, again and again, before taking action.
  61. The Law of Heaven and EarthZuozhuan · IdiomsA principle as unalterable as heaven and earth; perfectly justified.
  62. Three Men Make a TigerStrategies of the Warring States · IdiomsIf three people say there is a tiger in the market, it is believed; repeated rumor becomes truth.
  63. Driven to Desperate RiskZuozhuan · IdiomsDriven by desperation to take a reckless risk.
  64. Nothing Can Be DoneStrategies of the Warring States · IdiomsUtterly helpless; there is nothing to be done.
  65. Joy, Anger, Sorrow, and DelightBook of Rites · IdiomsJoy, anger, grief, and happiness; the full range of human emotions.
  66. With Careful ReverenceBook of Songs · IdiomsOriginally reverent and solemn; now, extremely careful and cautious.
  67. Vivid as LifeZhuangzi · IdiomsSo lifelike it seems alive; vividly true to life.
  68. Never Weary of LearningAnalects · IdiomsNever tiring of learning; always eager to learn more.
  69. Hesitant and UndecidedStrategies of the Warring States · IdiomsHesitating and unable to make up one's mind.
  70. Orderly and MethodicalBook of Documents · IdiomsWell-ordered and systematic; not the least bit confused.
  71. Know Yourself and Know Your EnemySunzi · IdiomsKnowing both yourself and your opponent, the basis for sound action in any contest.
  72. United Wills Form a FortressGuoyu · IdiomsWhen many are of one mind they become a fortress; unity creates unbreakable strength.
  73. Victorious in a Hundred BattlesSunzi · IdiomsWinning every battle; invincible in war, or consistently successful in any endeavor.
  74. Guests Feel at HomeZuozhuan · IdiomsGuests feel as if they have come home; describes warm, attentive hospitality.
  75. Unable to Live under the Same SkyBook of Rites · IdiomsUnwilling to share the same sky with an enemy; describes the deepest enmity.
  76. Beyond CureBook of Songs · IdiomsBeyond the help of medicine; hopelessly incorrigible.
  77. CountlessMozi · IdiomsToo many to be counted; countless.
  78. Far from IsolatedGongyang Commentary · IdiomsNot just one but many; used when listing numerous similar instances.
  79. Sparing No EffortStratagems · IdiomsSparing no effort; using every ounce of strength.
  80. Not Knowing the Height of Heaven or Depth of EarthXunzi · Common SayingsNot knowing how high the sky or thick the earth is; ignorant and arrogant.
  81. Overrating OneselfZuozhuan · IdiomsOverestimating one's own abilities and attempting the impossible.
  82. The Pillar in MidstreamYanzi Chunqiu · IdiomsLike the rock standing firm amid the Yellow River's torrent; a person or force that holds steady in a crisis.
  83. Wholehearted ConcentrationMencius · IdiomsDevoting one's whole mind and attention to a task.
  84. Trembling with AnxietyBook of Songs · IdiomsUneasy and fearful, full of anxious worry.
  85. Giving Up on OneselfMencius · IdiomsAbandoning oneself to failure or degradation; giving up all effort to improve.
  86. Self-RighteousMencius · IdiomsBelieving oneself always right and refusing others' views; self-righteous.
  87. Not Yielding in RighteousnessConfucius · IdiomsTaking on what is right without deferring to anyone, even one's teacher.
  88. The Most Urgent TaskMencius · IdiomsThe most pressing matter of the moment, to be dealt with first.
  89. Deep-Rooted and Firmly EstablishedLaozi · IdiomsDeeply rooted and firmly fixed; hard to shake or remove.
  90. Weighing on One's MindBook of Songs · IdiomsUnable to let go of something troubling; brooding over it.
  91. Faking It in the Pipe BandHan Fei · IdiomsA man who couldn't play the yu hid among real players; posing as competent among experts.
  92. Too Much Is as Bad as Too LittleConfucius · IdiomsOverdoing is as bad as underdoing; everything in moderation.
  93. Flowers Without FruitZuo Qiuming · IdiomsAll blossom and no fruit; showy on the outside but empty within.
  94. Do Not Impose on Others What You Do Not DesireAnalects · AphorismsDo not do to others what you would not want done to yourself; the Confucian principle of reciprocity.
  95. The Benevolent See Benevolence, the Wise See WisdomBook of Changes · IdiomsDifferent people see the same matter differently, each according to their own perspective.
  96. Changing One's Mind at Every New SightGuanzi · IdiomsTo want to change course whenever something new appears; fickle and lacking constancy.
  97. Three in the Morning, Four in the EveningZhuangzi · IdiomsOriginally a trick to fool others; now means being fickle and constantly changing.
  98. Keeping Oneself CleanMencius · IdiomsTo keep oneself morally pure and aloof from wrongdoing; also, to avoid involvement for self-protection.
  99. Draining the Pond to Catch the FishLüshi Chunqiu · IdiomsDraining a pond to get all the fish; sacrificing long-term interest for immediate gain.
  100. Fighting a Tiger Barehanded, Fording a River on FootAnalects · IdiomsTackling a tiger barehanded and wading a river; reckless courage without judgment.
  101. Hearsay Picked Up on the RoadAnalects · IdiomsRumors heard on the road and passed on; groundless hearsay.
  102. Mutual Deceit and DistrustZuozhuan · IdiomsEach deceiving and distrusting the other; mutual scheming.
  103. A Bird Startled by the BowStrategies of the Warring States · IdiomsA bird once wounded that panics at the twang of a bow; someone easily frightened after a shock.
  104. Holding the Chess Piece UndecidedZuozhuan · IdiomsHolding a chess piece without deciding where to place it; indecision.
  105. Cook Ding Carves the OxZhuangzi · IdiomsCook Ding carving an ox with masterly ease; skill that comes from grasping how things work.
  106. Lofty Songs Find Few to Join InSong Yu · IdiomsThe loftier the tune, the fewer who can sing along; refined work appreciated by few.
  107. Half the Effort, Double the ResultMencius · IdiomsHalf the effort for twice the result; highly efficient through the right method.
  108. Double the Effort, Half the ResultMencius · IdiomsTwice the effort for half the result; inefficient because of a poor method.
  109. In the Same Boat Crossing TogetherSunzi · IdiomsCrossing the river in the same boat; pulling together to overcome shared difficulties.
  110. Sighing Before the Vast OceanZhuangzi · IdiomsSighing at the vast sea; feeling small before greatness, now also powerless before a task.
  111. Fifty Paces Mocking a HundredMencius · Common SayingsOne who fled fifty paces mocking one who fled a hundred; the pot calling the kettle black.
  112. Not Plucking a Single HairMencius · IdiomsUnwilling to pluck even one hair for others; extremely stingy and selfish.
  113. One Day's Sun, Ten Days' ColdMencius · IdiomsOne day of sun followed by ten of cold; working in fits and starts without perseverance.
  114. Striking a Stone with an EggMozi · IdiomsThrowing an egg against a stone; overestimating oneself and courting defeat.
  115. Giving Up Eating for Fear of ChokingLüshi Chunqiu · IdiomsRefusing to eat because one once choked; abandoning something useful over a minor setback.
  116. Ample Room for the BladeZhuangzi · IdiomsThe blade moves with room to spare; handling a task with effortless skill.
  117. Preparedness Averts PerilZuozhuan · IdiomsBeing prepared in advance prevents disaster.
  118. The More One Hides, the More It ShowsZuozhuan · IdiomsTrying to cover something up only makes it more conspicuous.
  119. Leaving the Altar to Do the Cook's JobZhuangzi · IdiomsThe priest leaving the altar to take over the cook's work; overstepping one's role.