Through the Dynasties · LH3

Zhou

The Book of Songs, the Songs of Chu and the Hundred Schools: the fountainhead of Chinese literature

418works

5forms

39authors

Poetry

4 works

Orthodox classical Chinese poetry spanning archaic ballads to Tang regulated verse.

  1. Nine Arguments · ExcerptSong Yu · Chu ElegiesHow sad is the breath of autumn! Rustling and bleak, the grass and trees shed their leaves, wither and decay.
  2. Classic of PoetryAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · Four-Character VerseThe three hundred odes can be summed up in a single phrase: 'no swerving in thought.'
  3. Songs of ChuLiu Xiang (comp.) · Chu ElegiesLong, long is the road and far the journey; I shall search high and low.
  4. Song of the Ripening WheatJi Zi (traditionally attributed) · Old-Style SongsThe wheat is in ear, sharp and pointed; the millet grows glossy and lush.

Rhapsodies

7 works

Grand rhapsodies and parallel prose showcasing acoustic symmetry and ornate eloquence.

  1. Rhapsody on the WindSong Yu · Grand Han RhapsodiesWind is born of the earth and rises from the tips of the green duckweed.
  2. Rhapsody on Master Dengtu the LecherSong Yu · Grand Han RhapsodiesWere she one fen taller she would be too tall, one fen shorter too short; with powder she would be too white, with rouge too red.
  3. Rhapsody on the Divine MaidenSong Yu · Grand Han RhapsodiesHer face is full and dignified, wrapped in the warm lustre of jade.
  4. Rhapsody on GaotangSong Yu · Grand Han RhapsodiesAt dawn I am the morning cloud; at dusk I am the passing rain. Morning after morning, evening after evening, below the Yang Terrace.
  5. Far RoamingQu Yuan · Grand Han RhapsodiesI thought how Heaven and Earth are without end, and grieved at the long toil of human life. Those who have gone I cannot reach; those still to come I shall not hear.
  6. Summoning the SoulSong Yu (traditionally attributed) · Grand Han RhapsodiesThe eye reaches a thousand li, and spring wounds the heart. O soul, come back! Pity the land south of the Jiang!
  7. The Great SummonsJing Cha (traditionally attributed) · Grand Han RhapsodiesO soul, come back, to joys beyond words!

Prose

29 works

Authoritative classical prose from Pre-Qin philosophers to Tang-Song prose masters.

  1. Reply to the King of ChuSong Yu · Essays & MemorialsThe loftier the song, the fewer those who can sing along.
  2. ZhuangziZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersHeaven and Earth were born together with me, and the ten thousand things and I are one.
  3. Classic of the Way and VirtueLaozi (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersThe Way that can be spoken of is not the constant Way; the name that can be named is not the constant name.
  4. The AnalectsAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · Pre-Qin MastersTo learn and practice it in due season—is that not a joy? To have friends come from afar—is that not a delight?
  5. MenciusMencius · Pre-Qin MastersNot corrupted by wealth, not swayed by poverty, not bowed by force: this is what I call a great man.
  6. XunziXunzi (Xun Kuang) · Pre-Qin MastersBlue dye comes from the indigo plant, yet it is bluer than the plant.
  7. Han FeiziHan Fei · Pre-Qin MastersWhen the age changes, affairs change; when affairs change, the measures must change too.
  8. The Art of WarSun Wu (Sunzi) · Pre-Qin MastersWar is a vital matter of the state: the ground of life and death, the road to survival or ruin. It must be studied with care.
  9. Zuo TraditionZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · Historical NarrativeBattle is a matter of courage: the first drum rouses it, the second weakens it, the third exhausts it.
  10. Discourses of the StatesZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · Historical NarrativeStopping the people's mouths is more dangerous than damming a river.
  11. Strategies of the Warring StatesLiu Xiang (comp.) · Historical NarrativeA man of honor dies for the one who truly knows him; a woman adorns herself for the one who delights in her.
  12. MoziMozi (Mo Di) (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersWhen all under heaven love one another universally there is order; when they hate one another there is chaos.
  13. The Great LearningZengzi (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersThe way of great learning lies in illuminating bright virtue, in renewing the people, and in resting in the highest good.
  14. Doctrine of the MeanZisi (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersBefore joy, anger, sorrow and delight arise, there is equilibrium; when they arise in due measure, there is harmony.
  15. Book of ChangesKing Wen of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersHeaven moves with vigor; the noble person, accordingly, strives to strengthen himself without ceasing.
  16. LieziLie Yukou (Liezi) (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersWho says you know so much?
  17. Spring and Autumn AnnalsConfucius (Kongzi) (traditionally attributed) · Historical NarrativeFirst year, spring, the king's first month.
  18. Book of DocumentsAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · Historical NarrativeLike a net held by its main cord, there is order and no confusion.
  19. Six Secret TeachingsJiang Ziya (the Grand Duke) (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersThe world is not the world of one man; it is the world of all the world. Whoever shares the benefits of the world gains the world; whoever monopolises them loses the world.
  20. Rites of ZhouDuke of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersThe king establishes the state, distinguishes the directions and fixes positions, lays out the capital and the fields, sets up offices and divides duties, as a standard for the people.
  21. GuanziGuan Zhong (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersWhen the granaries are full, people know ritual and propriety; when food and clothing are sufficient, they know honour and disgrace.
  22. Book of Lord ShangShang Yang (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersThere is no single way to govern the world; to benefit the state one need not imitate antiquity.
  23. WeiliaoziWei Liao (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersThe Yellow Emperor's method was simply human effort.
  24. Ceremonial RitesDuke of Zhou (Ji Dan) (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersIn a good month on an auspicious day, the first cap is placed upon you.
  25. Edict Seeking Worthy MenQin Xiaogong · Essays & Memorialsthe lords looked down on Qin. No disgrace could be greater.
  26. Letter to King Zhao of QinFan Ju · Essays & MemorialsA mediocre ruler rewards those he loves and punishes those he hates; an enlightened ruler is not so: his rewards go to the meritorious and his punishments fall on the guilty.
  27. Master Lü's Spring and Autumn AnnalsLü Buwei (comp.) · Pre-Qin MastersTwelve almanacs, eight surveys and six discourses drawing on all the schools.
  28. Admonishing King Wei of QiChunyu Kun · Essays & MemorialsWhen wine is taken to the extreme there is disorder; when joy is taken to the extreme there is sorrow.
  29. Persuading King Xiang of ChuZhuang Xin · Essays & MemorialsTo look round for the dog when you see the hare is not too late; to mend the pen after losing a sheep is not too slow.

Fables

48 works

Philosophical fables, historical allusion narratives, and primordial mythology.

  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 (traditionally attributed) · 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 (traditionally attributed) · 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 (traditionally attributed) · 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 (traditionally attributed) · 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 (traditionally attributed) · Philosophers' FablesChange only the framing, not the substance, and people's feelings change anyway.
  21. Fighting Tigers Barehanded, Fording Rivers on FootAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · Satirical ParablesCourage without judgment is not heroism; careful planning is what succeeds.
  22. Hearsay from the RoadAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · 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 (traditionally attributed) · 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' ShoesAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · Satirical ParablesDo not do to others what you would not want done to yourself.
  33. Sighing Before the Vast OceanZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · 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 (Mo Di) (traditionally attributed) · 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 (traditionally attributed) · 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 (traditionally attributed) · Philosophers' FablesKeep to your own role; don't overstep into others' duties.
  43. Classic of Mountains and SeasAnonymous · Ancient MythsChina's oldest book of wonders, mapping mountains and seas and recording gods, strange beasts, distant peoples and ancient myths.
  44. Jingwei Fills the SeaAnonymous · Ancient MythsShe constantly carries wood and stones from the Western Mountains to fill up the Eastern Sea.
  45. Kuafu Chases the SunAnonymous · Ancient MythsKuafu raced with the sun and entered [its setting place].
  46. Great Yu Tames the FloodAnonymous · Ancient MythsGun stole the Lord's self-swelling soil to dam the floodwaters.
  47. Meng JiangnüAnonymous · Folk LegendsQi Liang died in battle; his wife came for his remains. Duke Zhuang of Qi condoled on the road; she stepped aside, not daring to accept. She wept for her husband at the wall, and the wall came down; having no kin left, she went into the Zi and died.
  48. The Foolish Old Man Moves the MountainsLiezi · Philosophers' FablesEven when I die, my sons will remain; my sons will have grandsons, and the grandsons sons; sons and grandsons without end, while the mountains grow no higher. Why worry that they cannot be levelled?

Sayings

330 works

Living Chinese linguistic heritage comprising idioms, proverbs, aphorisms, and couplets.

  1. Jingwei Fills the SeaAnonymous · IdiomsThe bird Jingwei carries twigs and pebbles to fill the sea; unshakable determination against overwhelming odds.
  2. Kuafu Chases the SunAnonymous · 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 MountainsLie Yukou (Liezi) (traditionally attributed) · 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 ThingsKing Wen of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · 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 BellLu Buwei (comp.) · 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 KnowledgeZengzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsProbing the principles of things to attain true knowledge; the first step of Confucian self-cultivation.
  12. Sincere Intentions, Rectified HeartZengzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsMaking one's intentions sincere and one's heart upright; core steps of Confucian self-cultivation.
  13. Striving Ceaselessly for Self-ImprovementKing Wen of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsLike heaven's tireless motion, the noble person strives to improve himself without ever slackening.
  14. The Fox Borrows the Tiger's MightLiu Xiang (comp.) · 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 ThighLiu Xiang (comp.) · 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 (traditionally attributed) · 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 TurningAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsTossing and turning in bed; unable to sleep because of longing or worry.
  19. A Graceful and Virtuous MaidenAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · 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 ForAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · 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 SnakeLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsAdding legs to a drawn snake loses the wager; doing something superfluous that ruins the result.
  24. Learning Enough to Fill Five CartsZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsHaving read enough books to fill five carts; exceptionally erudite and widely read.
  25. A Hundred Shots, a Hundred HitsLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsYang Youji hit a willow leaf from a hundred paces every time; perfect accuracy, or unfailing judgment.
  26. Giving Up HalfwayZisi (traditionally attributed) · 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 GuestKing Wen of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsA guest who arrives without being invited.
  29. Self-Evident Without WordsMencius · IdiomsUnderstood without being said; self-evident.
  30. Flying Away Without WingsGuan Zhong (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsVanishing as if on invisible wings; something suddenly missing, or news spreading rapidly.
  31. Learning to Walk in HandanZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · 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 SwordLu Buwei (comp.) · 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 ArtsAnonymous · IdiomsGifted in many fields; versatile and accomplished.
  37. Supporting the Old, Leading the YoungLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsHelping the elderly and leading the children; whole families turning out together.
  38. Buying the Casket, Returning the PearlHan Fei · IdiomsValuing outward packaging over real substance; making a foolish choice.
  39. Success Achieved, Fame WonMozi (Mo Di) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsHaving achieved one's goals and won renown.
  40. Driving North to Reach the SouthLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsActing in a way directly opposed to one's goal, so effort leads further away.
  41. Failing for Want of One BasketAnonymous · IdiomsFailing just short of success for lack of a final effort.
  42. The Man of Qi Fears the Sky Will FallLie Yukou (Liezi) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsNeedless or groundless worry.
  43. Work of Ghostly Axes and Divine CraftZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsCraftsmanship or natural scenery so marvelous it seems beyond human ability.
  44. The Horse That Harms the HerdZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsA person who harms or corrupts the group; a black sheep.
  45. Snipe and Clam Locked in StruggleLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsWhen two sides fight to a stalemate, a third party reaps the benefit.
  46. The Man of Zheng Buys ShoesHan Fei · IdiomsTrusting rules and measurements rather than reality; rigid dogmatism.
  47. In Perfect OrderXunzi (Xun Kuang) · IdiomsNeatly organized and in perfect order.
  48. Waiting by the Stump for a HareHan Fei · IdiomsClinging to a lucky past experience instead of adapting; hoping for gain without effort.
  49. The Old Horse Knows the WayHan Fei · IdiomsAn experienced person knows the way and can guide others.
  50. A Mantis Blocking a ChariotZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsOverrating oneself and attempting the impossible; doomed resistance.
  51. Fearless in the Face of DangerZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · 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 SheepLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsTaking remedial action after a loss to prevent further damage.
  54. A Thousand Changes, Ten Thousand TransformationsLie Yukou (Liezi) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsEndlessly changing; showing countless variations.
  55. Dong Shi Imitates the FrownZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsThe plain Dong Shi copies Xi Shi's frown and looks worse; blind imitation that backfires.
  56. New Every Day, Different Every MonthDai Sheng (comp.) · IdiomsChanging day by day and month by month; rapid progress.
  57. Like Fire, Like Reed FlowersZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsLike red fire and white reed flowers; vigorous, spectacular, and in full swing.
  58. As If Treading on Thin IceAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsAs if walking on thin ice; acting with the utmost caution.
  59. As If Relieved of a Heavy LoadGuliang Chi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsAs if a heavy burden were lifted; a feeling of great relief.
  60. Think Thrice Before ActingAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · IdiomsThink carefully, again and again, before taking action.
  61. The Law of Heaven and EarthZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsA principle as unalterable as heaven and earth; perfectly justified.
  62. Three Men Make a TigerLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsIf three people say there is a tiger in the market, it is believed; repeated rumor becomes truth.
  63. Driven to Desperate RiskZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsDriven by desperation to take a reckless risk.
  64. Nothing Can Be DoneLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsUtterly helpless; there is nothing to be done.
  65. Joy, Anger, Sorrow, and DelightDai Sheng (comp.) · IdiomsJoy, anger, grief, and happiness; the full range of human emotions.
  66. With Careful ReverenceAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsOriginally reverent and solemn; now, extremely careful and cautious.
  67. Vivid as LifeZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsSo lifelike it seems alive; vividly true to life.
  68. Never Weary of LearningAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · IdiomsNever tiring of learning; always eager to learn more.
  69. Hesitant and UndecidedLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsHesitating and unable to make up one's mind.
  70. Orderly and MethodicalAnonymous · 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 FortressZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · 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 HomeZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsGuests feel as if they have come home; describes warm, attentive hospitality.
  75. Unable to Live under the Same SkyDai Sheng (comp.) · IdiomsUnwilling to share the same sky with an enemy; describes the deepest enmity.
  76. Beyond CureAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsBeyond the help of medicine; hopelessly incorrigible.
  77. CountlessMozi (Mo Di) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsToo many to be counted; countless.
  78. Far from IsolatedGongyang Gao (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsNot just one but many; used when listing numerous similar instances.
  79. Sparing No EffortLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsSparing no effort; using every ounce of strength.
  80. Not Knowing the Height of Heaven or Depth of EarthXunzi (Xun Kuang) · Common SayingsNot knowing how high the sky or thick the earth is; ignorant and arrogant.
  81. Overrating OneselfZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsOverestimating one's own abilities and attempting the impossible.
  82. The Pillar in MidstreamAnonymous · 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 AnxietyAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · 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 MindAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · 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 DesireAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · 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 WisdomKing Wen of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsDifferent people see the same matter differently, each according to their own perspective.
  96. Changing One's Mind at Every New SightGuan Zhong (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsTo want to change course whenever something new appears; fickle and lacking constancy.
  97. Three in the Morning, Four in the EveningZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · 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 FishLu Buwei (comp.) · IdiomsDraining a pond to get all the fish; sacrificing long-term interest for immediate gain.
  100. Fighting a Tiger Barehanded, Fording a River on FootAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · IdiomsTackling a tiger barehanded and wading a river; reckless courage without judgment.
  101. Hearsay Picked Up on the RoadAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · IdiomsRumors heard on the road and passed on; groundless hearsay.
  102. Mutual Deceit and DistrustZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsEach deceiving and distrusting the other; mutual scheming.
  103. A Bird Startled by the BowLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsA bird once wounded that panics at the twang of a bow; someone easily frightened after a shock.
  104. Holding the Chess Piece UndecidedZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsHolding a chess piece without deciding where to place it; indecision.
  105. Cook Ding Carves the OxZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · 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 (traditionally attributed) · 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 (Mo Di) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsThrowing an egg against a stone; overestimating oneself and courting defeat.
  115. Giving Up Eating for Fear of ChokingLu Buwei (comp.) · IdiomsRefusing to eat because one once choked; abandoning something useful over a minor setback.
  116. Ample Room for the BladeZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsThe blade moves with room to spare; handling a task with effortless skill.
  117. Preparedness Averts PerilZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsBeing prepared in advance prevents disaster.
  118. The More One Hides, the More It ShowsZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsTrying to cover something up only makes it more conspicuous.
  119. Leaving the Altar to Do the Cook's JobZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsThe priest leaving the altar to take over the cook's work; overstepping one's role.
  120. A Journey of a Thousand Miles Begins with a Single StepLaozi (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsA journey of a thousand li begins beneath one's feet.
  121. Keep Carving Without StoppingXunzi (Xun Kuang) · IdiomsCarve without stopping, and even metal and stone can be engraved.
  122. At the First DrumrollZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsAt the first drumroll, courage rises; at the second it flags; by the third it is spent.
  123. Know the Enemy and Know YourselfSun Wu (Sunzi) · IdiomsHence it is said: know the enemy and know yourself, and in a hundred battles you will never be in peril;
  124. Songs of the Country FolkSong Yu · IdiomsThere was a man who sang in Ying; at first he sang Xiali and Baren, and several thousand in the city joined in.
  125. Bright Spring and White SnowSong Yu · IdiomsWhen he sang Yangchun and Baixue, those in the city who joined in were no more than a few dozen.
  126. Sought but Not WonAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsSeeking her and not winning her, waking and sleeping I think of her.
  127. Solemn Vows, Sincere and ClearAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsHis vows were sworn so earnestly; I never thought he would go back on them.
  128. A Foot Can Fall Short, an Inch Can SufficeLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsZhanyin then set aside his stalks and declined, saying: 'A foot may fall short, and an inch may be long enough;
  129. Quick-Witted and Eager to LearnAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · IdiomsThe Master said: 'He was quick and fond of learning, and not ashamed to ask those below him; that is why he was called Wen.
  130. Teaching Others Without TiringAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · IdiomsThe Master said: 'To store things up in silence, to learn without satiety, to teach others without weariness; what of these do I find hard?
  131. Think Thrice, Then ActAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · IdiomsJi Wenzi thought three times before he acted.
  132. Flood-Like Vital EnergyMencius · Idioms'May I ask what you mean by flood-like vital energy?'
  133. The Meat-Eaters Are ShortsightedZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsGui said: 'The meat-eaters are shortsighted and cannot plan far ahead.
  134. Much Wrongdoing Brings Self-DestructionZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsThe duke said: 'One who does much that is unjust will surely bring himself down; just wait for it.
  135. A Courtyard Like a MarketplaceLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsAs soon as the order was issued, ministers came to remonstrate, and the gate and courtyard were as crowded as a market;
  136. A Fit Match for a GentlemanAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsThe modest, lovely maiden is a fine match for a gentleman.
  137. The Mirror for Yin Is Not FarAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsThe mirror for Yin is not far: it lies in the age of the sovereigns of Xia!
  138. Pleased and Fully SatisfiedZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsHe stood holding his knife, looked all around, lingered there fully satisfied, then wiped the blade clean and put it away.
  139. Stirring the Heart and Strengthening the NatureMencius · IdiomsThus, when Heaven is about to place a great charge on a person, it first embitters their mind, wearies their sinews and bones, starves their body, leaves them in want and confounds their undertakings, so as to stir their heart, toughen their nature and add to what they could not do before.
  140. Speaking Only with the Eyes in the StreetZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsNo one in the capital dared to speak; on the roads, people communicated only with their eyes.
  141. Silencing the People Is Worse Than Damming a RiverZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsStopping the people's mouths is worse than stopping a river: when a blocked river bursts, it hurts many people;
  142. Resting in the Highest GoodZengzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsThe way of great learning lies in making bright virtue shine, in renewing the people, and in resting in the highest good.
  143. The Peach Tree, Young and LovelyAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsThe peach tree is young and lovely; bright, bright are its blossoms.
  144. Rising Early and Retiring LateAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsRising early and retiring late, not a single morning was otherwise.
  145. Masters of the Great WayZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsNow that I see how hard you are to fathom, I know that had I not come to your gate I would have been in danger; I would forever have been laughed at by the masters of the great Way.
  146. Like Cooking a Small FishLaozi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsGoverning a great state is like cooking a small fish.
  147. Great Skill Seems ClumsyLaozi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsGreat straightness seems bent, great skill seems clumsy, great eloquence seems halting.
  148. One Cannot Have BothMencius · IdiomsIf I cannot have both, I will give up fish and take bear's paw.
  149. Never Imperiled in a Hundred BattlesSun Wu (Sunzi) · IdiomsHence it is said: know the other and know yourself, and in a hundred battles you will not be imperiled;
  150. A Host of Dragons Without a LeaderKing Wen of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsUse of Nines: seeing a host of dragons with none at the head; good fortune.
  151. Ruler and Ranks of One DesireSun Wu (Sunzi) · IdiomsThe side whose superiors and subordinates share the same desire will win.
  152. The Best Warfare Defeats the Enemy's PlansSun Wu (Sunzi) · IdiomsThus the highest form of war is to attack the enemy's plans; next, his alliances; next, his army; and the lowest, his walled cities.
  153. Lingering Notes Circling the RaftersLie Yukou (Liezi) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsAfter she left, the lingering notes circled the beams for three days, and those nearby thought she had not gone.
  154. Confucius Sides with the Spring Outing by the River YiAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · AphorismsThe Master sighed deeply and said: I am with Dian!
  155. Sons and Grandsons Without EndLiezi · IdiomsSons and grandsons will go on without end, while the mountains will grow no higher; why fear they cannot be leveled?
  156. As Careful at the End as at the BeginningLaozi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsPeople in their undertakings often fail when they are nearly done. Be as careful at the end as at the beginning, and nothing will fail.
  157. Soaring Straight Up on the WhirlwindZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsWhen the Peng travels to the southern sea, it strikes the water for three thousand li, beats upon the whirlwind and rises ninety thousand li, and departs on the winds of the sixth month.
  158. Without End and Without LimitLiezi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsGeneration upon generation without end, while the mountains will grow no higher; why worry that they cannot be leveled?
  159. Spring Clothes Ready in Late SpringAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · AphorismsIn late spring, when the spring clothes are ready, with five or six young men and six or seven boys, I would bathe in the Yi, enjoy the breeze at the Rain Altar, and come home singing.
  160. Being and Non-Being Give Rise to Each OtherLaozi (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsThus being and non-being give rise to each other, difficult and easy complete each other, long and short reveal each other, high and low lean on each other, note and sound harmonize, and front and back follow each other.
  161. Losing the Sheep Where the Roads ForkLie Yukou (Liezi) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsOn the great road sheep are lost because of the many forks; scholars lose their lives because of the many methods.
  162. A Hen Announcing the DawnAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · IdiomsThe hen does not announce the morning; when the hen announces the morning, the household is ruined.
  163. Mystery Upon Mystery, the Gate of All WondersLaozi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsMystery upon mystery: the gateway to all wonders.
  164. Zilu Answers Rashly Before the MasterAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · AphorismsZilu answered at once, without a moment's thought.
  165. Hesitant Undertakings Win No SuccessShang Yang (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsHesitant action brings no success; hesitant undertakings bring no merit.
  166. Cook Ding Sees No Whole OxZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsWhen I first began carving oxen, all I saw was the ox; after three years I never saw a whole ox again.
  167. The Perfected Person Has No SelfZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsTherefore it is said: the perfected person has no self, the spirit person has no merit, the sage has no name.
  168. Laughed at by Those Who Know the WayZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsI would long have been laughed at by those of the great Way.
  169. Lofty Mountains, Flowing Water: Boya and ZiqiLie Yukou (Liezi) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsWonderful! Towering like Mount Tai! ... Wonderful! Vast like the great rivers!
  170. The Roc's Ten-Thousand-Li JourneyZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsWhen the roc journeys to the southern sea, it strikes the water for three thousand li and rides the whirlwind ninety thousand li up.
  171. Subdue the Enemy Without a BattleSun Wu (Sunzi) · AphorismsTo win a hundred battles out of a hundred is not the highest excellence; to subdue the enemy without fighting is the highest excellence.
  172. The Morning Mushroom Never Sees a Month Begin or EndZhuangzi (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsThe morning mushroom knows nothing of the month's first and last days, the summer cicada knows nothing of spring and autumn: these are short lives.
  173. Governing a Great State Like Cooking a Small FishLaozi (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsGoverning a great state is like cooking a small fish.
  174. Bathing in the Yi River and Taking the Breeze at the Rain AltarAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · AphorismsWe would bathe in the Yi, take the breeze at the Rain Altar, and come home singing.
  175. Praise or Blame in a Single WordConfucius (Kongzi) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsAlthough the Spring and Autumn Annals expresses praise or blame in a single word, it always needs several sentences to complete what it says.
  176. The Fire Star Sinks West in the Seventh MonthAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsIn the seventh month the Fire Star sinks west; in the ninth month winter clothes are handed out.
  177. Three Corrupt Fashions and Ten TransgressionsAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · IdiomsOf these three fashions and ten faults, if a noble has even one in himself, his house will perish; if a ruler has even one in himself, his state will fall.
  178. Too Fierce to Approach, Like a Prairie FireAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · IdiomsIt is like a fire blazing across the plain: one cannot even approach it, so how could it still be put out?
  179. Who Neither Sow Nor ReapAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsYou neither sow nor reap; why do you take three hundred stores of grain?
  180. Too Busy Even to EatAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · IdiomsFrom morning until noon and on into the afternoon he had no leisure even to eat, so as to bring harmony to all the people.
  181. I Share My Robe With YouAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsWho says you have no clothes? I will share my robe with you. The king is raising an army; we mend our dagger-axes and spears. Your enemy is mine!
  182. The Neighbour's Daughter to the EastSong Yu · AphorismsThe daughter of my eastern neighbour: add an inch and she would be too tall, take one away and she would be too short; powder would make her too white, rouge would make her too red.
  183. Though I Die Nine Times, I Shall Not RegretLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsThis is what my heart holds good; though I should die nine times, I would still not regret it!
  184. Profound and Never Ceasing Is Heaven's MandateAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsThe mandate of Heaven, how profound and solemn, never ceasing!
  185. Solemn and Pure Is the Ancestral TempleAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsAh, solemn and pure is the ancestral temple; reverent and harmonious are the illustrious assistants.
  186. Harming Others to Profit OneselfMozi (Mo Di) (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsWhy is this? Because he harms others to profit himself.
  187. The Dragon That Soars Too High Will Have RegretsKing Wen of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsTop nine: the dragon that soars too high will have regrets.
  188. Replacing the Ox With a SheepMencius · IdiomsHow could it be abandoned? Exchange it for a sheep!
  189. Laying Out the Capital and Measuring the FieldsDuke of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsOnly the king founds the state: he distinguishes the directions and fixes the proper positions, lays out the capital and measures the fields, establishes offices and divides their duties, to serve as the standard for the people.
  190. Feeding the Lord a Half-Eaten PeachHan Fei · IdiomsThis man once drove my carriage on a forged order, and once fed me a half-eaten peach.
  191. Mend Our Spears and Lances for the Common FightAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsThe king is raising his army; we mend our spears and lances. With you I share one foe!
  192. Brothers Quarrelling Within the WallsAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsBrothers may quarrel within the walls, yet they join to repel insult from outside.
  193. Its Leaves So Lush and ThickAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsHow young and lovely the peach tree, its leaves so lush and thick! This girl goes to her new home; she will bring harmony to the household.
  194. An Old State with an Ever-Renewed MandateAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsThough Zhou is an ancient state, its mandate is new.
  195. Haughty Before, Humble After: Su Qin's Sister-in-LawLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsSu Qin said: 'Sister, why were you so haughty before and so humble now?'
  196. Toil That Hardens Sinews and BonesMencius · AphorismsSo when Heaven is about to confer a great charge on someone, it first embitters his heart, wears out his sinews and bones, starves his body, leaves him destitute and thwarts his undertakings, to rouse his mind, toughen his nature and increase his abilities.
  197. Transforming Nature Through Deliberate EffortXunzi (Xun Kuang) · IdiomsThus the sages transformed nature and built up deliberate effort; from that effort ritual and righteousness arose, and from ritual and righteousness laws were made.
  198. The Reckless Courage of a Lone ManZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsI do not want the courage of a lone man; I want you to advance together and retreat together.
  199. Ten Years of Building Up the PeopleZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsYue will spend ten years growing its people and wealth and ten years teaching and training them; after twenty years, Wu will be a swamp!
  200. Humble Words and Lavish GiftsLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsOnce Chu and Zhao submit, Qi will surely be afraid, and in its fear it will serve Qin with humble words and lavish gifts.
  201. True to Its Nature, the Orange Tree Will Not MoveLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsFair tree of sovereign Earth, the orange came to suit this soil; bound by its charge it will not move, but grows in the southern land.
  202. Joining North-South and Linking East-WestXunzi (Xun Kuang) · IdiomsIt can join north to south, and it is good at linking east to west.
  203. An Auspicious Day and a Lucky HourLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsOn an auspicious day at a lucky hour, reverently we come to delight the high lord.
  204. United in Fury Against a Common FoeAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsWe mend our spears and lances; with you I share one foe.
  205. When Misfortune Peaks, Fortune ReturnsKing Wen of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsWhen the time has passed its term, stagnation ends and peace follows.
  206. Deer Calling to One Another in the WildsAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsThe deer call to one another, eating wormwood in the wilds. I have honoured guests; for them the zither is strummed and the pipes are blown.
  207. Harmony Gives Birth to All ThingsZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsHarmony truly gives birth to things; sameness cannot continue.
  208. Alas, Father and Mother, Who Toiled to Raise MeAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsAlas, my father and mother, how you toiled to give me life!
  209. When the Lips Are Gone, the Teeth Feel the ColdLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsI have heard that when the lips are gone, the teeth grow cold.
  210. Skilled at Making Use of ThingsXunzi (Xun Kuang) · AphorismsThe gentleman is not different from others by birth; he is simply skilled at making use of things.
  211. The One I Seek, Across the WaterAnonymous (comp.) · AphorismsThe one of whom I speak is somewhere across the water.
  212. Chop, Chop, Felling Sandalwood by the RiverAnonymous (comp.) · AphorismsChop, chop, we fell the sandalwood and set it on the river's bank; the river water is clear and rippling.
  213. Clinging to Old Rules Like Mozi Holding a CityMozi (Mo Di) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsGongshu Ban's siege engines were exhausted, while Master Mozi's defences had more to spare.
  214. A Single Note Makes No Music: Shi Bo on HarmonyZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsA single note makes no music, a single colour no pattern, a single flavour no fine taste, and a single thing allows no comparison.
  215. Lowered by Rope at Night: Zhu Zhiwu Turns Back QinZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsHe agreed. At night he was let down from the wall on a rope and went out.
  216. The Greatest Wrong Called Right: Mozi Against Aggressive WarMozi (Mo Di) (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsNow when it comes to the greatest wrong, attacking a state, they do not condemn it but praise it and call it right.
  217. All the Realm in Mourning White: Tang Ju Defies the King of QinLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsIf a true man must be angry, two corpses fall, blood flows five paces, and all the realm puts on mourning white; and today is that day.
  218. Heaven Sent the Dark Bird to Bring Forth ShangAnonymous (comp.) · AphorismsHeaven commanded the dark bird to come down and bring forth Shang, who dwelt in the land of Yin, vast and wide.
  219. Heaven's Course Is Constant: Xunzi on NatureXunzi (Xun Kuang) · AphorismsHeaven's course is constant: it did not persist for Yao, nor perish for Jie.
  220. Losing the Original Heart: Mencius on Fish and Bear's PawMencius · AphorismsCan this not be stopped? This is called losing one's original heart.
  221. Bringing Harmony to Her New Home: The Peach Blossom BrideAnonymous (comp.) · AphorismsThis girl goes to her new home; she will bring harmony to her household.
  222. Filling a Seat and Eating for NothingAnonymous (comp.) · IdiomsThat gentleman, oh, does not eat for nothing!
  223. Treading on Frost, Knowing Hard Ice Will FollowKing Wen of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsTreading on frost: hard ice is coming.
  224. Morning Clouds and Evening Rain on Mount WuSong Yu · IdiomsAt dawn I am the morning clouds, at dusk the passing rain, morning after morning, evening after evening, below the Yang terrace.
  225. The Wrath of a Man in Plain Cloth: Tang Ju Answers the King of QinLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsHas Your Majesty heard of the wrath of a man in plain cloth?
  226. Stabbing One's Thigh with an Awl to Stay AwakeLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsWhen he grew sleepy over his books, he took an awl and stabbed his own thigh, and the blood flowed down to his feet.
  227. Their Spirit Spent, Ours at FullZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsThe first drum rouses courage, the second weakens it, the third exhausts it. Their spirit was spent and ours was full, so we won.
  228. The Fish Has Found Its PlaceAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsZichan said: It has found its place! It has found its place!
  229. Every Inch Gained Is an Inch KeptLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsBefriend the distant and attack the near; then an inch gained is Your Majesty's inch, and a foot gained is Your Majesty's foot.
  230. Subtle Words Carrying Great PrinciplesConfucius (Kongzi) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsWhen Zhongni died his subtle words were cut off; when the seventy disciples passed away the great principles went astray.
  231. Reverently Carrying Out Heaven's PunishmentAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · IdiomsNow I only reverently carry out Heaven's punishment.
  232. O Distant Blue HeavenAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsO distant blue heaven, who has brought this about!
  233. The Mouth Alone Invites DisgraceAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · IdiomsIt is the mouth that brings shame, and armour that brings war.
  234. Clapping Hands in Lively TalkLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsHe saw and persuaded the King of Zhao beneath his splendid roof, clapping his hands as he talked.
  235. Removing Troubles and Easing Hardships for OthersLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsWhat is prized in a gentleman of the world is that he removes others' troubles, eases their hardships and settles their disputes while taking nothing.
  236. Putting Oneself in Others' ShoesAnonymous (Confucius's disciples and their students) · IdiomsWhat you do not want for yourself, do not impose on others.
  237. Scratching One's Head and PacingAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsShe hides and does not appear; I scratch my head and pace about.
  238. Advancing and Retreating in Step With the RanksZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsI do not want the courage of a single man; I want you to advance together and retreat together.
  239. Without Partiality or FactionAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · IdiomsWithout partiality or faction, the royal way is broad and wide; without faction or partiality, the royal way is level and smooth.
  240. When Will This Sun Perish?Anonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · IdiomsThey say: 'When will this sun perish? We will perish together with you!'
  241. A Parents' Kindness as Boundless as HeavenAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsI long to repay their kindness, but it is as boundless as vast heaven!
  242. A Single Spark Can Set the Prairie AblazeAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · IdiomsIt is like a fire sweeping across a plain: no one can come near it; could it still be beaten out?
  243. The Praise-and-Blame Brush of the Spring and Autumn AnnalsConfucius (Kongzi) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsWhen it came to making the Spring and Autumn Annals, he wrote what should be written and cut what should be cut, and disciples like Zixia could not add a single word.
  244. Cliques and Factions Banding TogetherHan Fei · IdiomsThose who band together in cliques and factions to blind the ruler, and twist their words to serve private ends, are sure to be trusted by the powerful.
  245. Morning Clouds and Evening Rain of the Goddess of Mount WuSong Yu · IdiomsAt dawn I am the morning cloud, at dusk I am the passing rain.
  246. Every Dawn and Every Dusk Below the Yang TerraceSong Yu · IdiomsAt dawn I am the morning cloud, at dusk the passing rain; every dawn and every dusk, below the Yang Terrace.
  247. Binding the Windows Fast Before the RainAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsWhile the sky is not yet dark with rain, I strip the mulberry roots and bind the door and windows fast.
  248. Sealing One's Lips and Binding One's FeetLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsThat is why they will seal their lips and bind their feet, and no one will be willing to come to Qin.
  249. Willows Swaying Softly as the Soldier LeavesAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsWhen I went away, the willows swayed softly; now I come back, and rain and snow are falling thick.
  250. Evening Light on the Mulberry and ElmAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsMy years now lie among the mulberry and elm; like shadow and echo, they cannot be pursued.
  251. Bound Together Through Life and Death, Near or ApartAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsIn life or death, together or apart, we made our pledge: I would hold your hand and grow old with you.
  252. Different Roads Leading to the Same DestinationKing Wen of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsAll under heaven arrive at the same place by different roads, and reach one end through a hundred lines of thought.
  253. A Thousand Li of Fertile PlainsLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsIts fields are rich and its people prosperous; it has ten thousand chariots and a million fighting men, a thousand li of fertile plains and ample stores, and advantageous terrain. This is what is called a storehouse of heaven, the mightiest state under heaven.
  254. The Nine Divisions of the Great PlanAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · AphorismsHeaven then granted Yu the Great Plan in nine divisions, and the constant norms were set in order.
  255. A Host of Able Men Around King WenAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsIn dignified throngs the many officers stand, and through them King Wen has peace.
  256. Deep Roots That Will Not Be Transplanted: Ode to the OrangeLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsDeep-rooted and hard to move, its will is all the more single.
  257. Peach Blossoms Blazing Bright: A Bride's SongAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsThe peach tree young and tender, blazing bright its blossoms.
  258. Standing Alone and Unmoved Like the Orange TreeLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsStanding alone and unmoved, is that not a joy?
  259. Ten Years to Grow, Ten Years to Train: Wu Zixu's WarningZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsYue will grow and gather for ten years and teach and train for ten years; after twenty years, Wu will surely be a marsh!
  260. Hesitant Action Achieves Nothing: Shang Yang Urges ReformShang Yang (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsHesitant action achieves nothing; doubtful undertakings win no merit.
  261. Climbing Hills and Facing Waters: Song Yu's Autumn FarewellSong Yu · IdiomsClimbing hills and facing waters, I see off one going home.
  262. Knowing Is Easy, Doing Is Hard: Fu Yue's Counsel to Wu DingAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · IdiomsIt is not knowing that is hard; it is doing that is hard.
  263. Short Blades Meet: The Hymn to the FallenLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsGripping halberds of Wu and wearing rhinoceros armour, chariot wheels lock and short blades meet.
  264. Ritual, Righteousness, Integrity and Shame: The Four Cords of the StateGuan Zhong (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsA state has four cords: break one and it tilts, two and it is in danger, three and it is overturned, four and it is destroyed.
  265. Senior by a Single Meal: Fuchai's Last Plea to GoujianZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsIn courtesy I am ahead of you by a single meal.
  266. Heaped Earth Becomes a Mountain: Xunzi on LearningXunzi (Xun Kuang) · IdiomsHeap up earth into a mountain and wind and rain arise from it; gather water into a pool and dragons are born in it.
  267. Know the Toil of Sowing and Reaping: The Duke of Zhou's WarningAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · IdiomsFirst learn the hardship of sowing and reaping; then rest, and so know what the common people depend on.
  268. Endless Melon Vines: the Rise of the Zhou PeopleAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsOn and on spread the melon vines. When our people first arose, they lived by the Ju and the Qi.
  269. The Fair One Growing Old: Qu Yuan's Fear of TimeLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsThinking how the plants and trees fall and fade, I fear that the fair one too will grow old.
  270. Fair and Delicate: the Worshipper of the Xiang River SpiritLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsFair and delicate, fittingly adorned, swiftly I ride in my cassia boat.
  271. A Disease in the Belly and Heart: Wu Zixu Warns Against YueZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsQi and Lu, compared to illness, are a skin rash; how could they cross the Yangtze and the Huai to contest this land with us?
  272. Tongues Worn Out and Ears Gone Deaf: Su Qin's Plea to QinLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsTongues are worn out and ears deafened, yet no success is seen.
  273. Giving Up Life for Righteousness: Mencius on Fish and Bear's PawMencius · IdiomsIf I cannot have both, I will give up life and take righteousness.
  274. Trying the Heart and Will: Mencius on Heaven's Great ChargeMencius · AphorismsWhen Heaven is about to confer a great charge on someone, it first makes their heart and will suffer and wears out their sinews and bones.
  275. Plants and Trees Shake and Fall: Song Yu's Sorrow of AutumnSong Yu · AphorismsHow sad is the air of autumn! Bleak and chill, the plants and trees shake, fall and wither.
  276. Even a Passer-by Refuses: Mencius on Food Given with ContemptMencius · AphorismsGiven with a contemptuous shout, a passer-by will not accept them; kicked over to you, a beggar will disdain them.
  277. Slow Is Our Road Home: the Returning Soldier of Cai WeiAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsSlow is our road, we thirst and we hunger. My heart is grieved; no one knows my sorrow!
  278. Talking and Laughing Happily: the Broken Vows of The PeasantAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsIn the happy days of childhood we talked and laughed so gaily; your vows were sworn so earnestly, I never thought you would turn against them.
  279. Establishing Offices and Dividing Duties: the Opening of the Rites of ZhouDuke of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsOnly the king establishes the state: he distinguishes the directions and fixes the positions, lays out the capital and the countryside, establishes offices and divides duties, as a standard for the people.
  280. The Modest, Modest Gentleman of the Qian HexagramKing Wen of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsThe modest, modest gentleman may use this to cross the great river: good fortune.
  281. Greed That Knows No Bounds: the Fall of the Zhi ClanLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsZhi Bo was killed, his house destroyed and his land divided, and he became the laughing stock of the world: this is greed that knows no bounds.
  282. Driving and Galloping Home in HasteAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · IdiomsDriving, galloping, I go home to condole with the lord of Wei; I drive my horses on and on until I reach Cao.
  283. Ally with the Distant, Attack the NearLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsYour Majesty would do better to befriend the distant and attack the near; then every inch you gain is Your Majesty's inch, and every foot is Your Majesty's foot.
  284. Distant Peoples Come and Neighbours Live in PeaceZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsLearning from the fate of Yi and governing by virtue and law, distant peoples will come and those near will be at peace; that is the fifth benefit.
  285. Off to That Happy LandAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsWe swear we will leave you and go to that happy land; happy land, happy land, there we shall find our place.
  286. The Way Is Hard and LongAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsUpstream I go to find that person, but the way is hard and long; downstream I go to find that person, who seems to be in the middle of the water.
  287. The Glory of the NationAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsOn the southern hills are mulberries, on the northern hills poplars; joyful gentlemen, the glory of the land.
  288. Gathering Plantain, Gathering PlantainAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsPick, pick the plantain, come and pick it; pick, pick the plantain, now we have some.
  289. Kneeling Upright to Apologise: Tang Ju Faces the King of QinLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsThe King of Qin's face fell; he rose upright on his knees and apologised, saying, 'Please sit, sir; why go so far? I understand.'
  290. Drifting with the Waves and Following the CurrentLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsIf the world is muddy, why not stir up the mud and raise the waves?
  291. Snow Falling Thick on the Road HomeAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsWhen I left long ago, the willows swayed softly; now as I return, the snow falls thick and fast.
  292. Blue Dye Bluer Than the Indigo PlantXunzi (Xun Kuang) · IdiomsBlue is taken from the indigo plant yet is bluer than the plant; ice is made from water yet is colder than water.
  293. Either Foolish or FalseHan Fei · IdiomsTo be certain without testing is foolishness; to rely on what cannot be made certain is deceit.
  294. Head and Body Parted on the BattlefieldLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsWith long swords at their belts and the bows of Qin in hand, though head and body are parted, their hearts do not regret.
  295. Fragrant Herbs and Fair Ones: Qu Yuan's AllegoryLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsFine birds and fragrant herbs are matched with the loyal and true; foul birds and stinking things are likened to slanderers; the divine one and the fair one stand for the ruler.
  296. A Slow Horse Gets There in Ten DaysXunzi (Xun Kuang) · IdiomsA fine steed cannot cover ten paces in one leap; a slow horse pulling for ten days gets there, its success lying in not stopping.
  297. Ripening Wheat and Drooping Millet: Lament for a Fallen StateJi Zi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsThe wheat is in ear with bristling awns; the grain grows glossy and lush. That crafty boy would not be friends with me!
  298. Plucking the Zither and Playing the Reed Pipes for GuestsAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsYoo-yoo the deer are calling, eating the wormwood of the plain. I have honoured guests; we pluck the zither and blow the reed pipes.
  299. The Host on the Eastern RoadZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsIf you spare Zheng and make it host on your eastern road, it will supply your envoys with whatever they lack as they come and go, and you will suffer no harm.
  300. The Whole World Muddy, I Alone ClearLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsThe whole world is muddy and I alone am clear; all men are drunk and I alone am sober; that is why I was banished.
  301. Affairs Succeed in Secrecy, Fail by Loose TalkHan Fei · AphorismsAffairs succeed through secrecy and fail when words leak out.
  302. Two of One Mind Can Cut Through MetalKing Wen of Zhou (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsWhen two people are of one mind, their sharpness can cut through metal; words spoken from one heart are as fragrant as orchids.
  303. Two Bodies Fall, Blood Flows Five PacesLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsIf a man of resolve is truly roused, two bodies will fall and blood will flow five paces, and the whole world will wear mourning white; today is such a day.
  304. Ice and Charcoal Cannot Share One VesselHan Fei · IdiomsIce and charcoal cannot long share one vessel; cold and heat do not come at the same season; contradictory doctrines cannot both stand and bring order.
  305. Master Heaven's Decree and Put It to UseXunzi (Xun Kuang) · AphorismsRather than obey Heaven and sing its praises, why not master Heaven's decree and put it to use!
  306. The King's Mighty WindSong Yu (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsThis is what is called the king's mighty wind.
  307. The World Belongs to All, Not to One ManJiang Ziya (the Grand Duke) (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsThe world is not one man's world; it is the world's world.
  308. Right Season, Right Ground, United PeopleMencius · IdiomsFavourable timing is not as good as favourable ground; favourable ground is not as good as harmony among people.
  309. As if in the Middle of the WaterAnonymous (Folk song of Qin) · AphorismsUpstream I follow, the way is hard and long; downstream I follow, and there she seems to stand, in the middle of the water.
  310. Silencing the People's CriticismZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsThe king was pleased and told the Duke of Shao: 'I have been able to stop the criticism; they dare not speak.'
  311. A Just Cause Finds Many HelpersMencius · IdiomsOne who has the Way will have many helpers; one who loses the Way will have few.
  312. Victory Won at CourtLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsWhen Yan, Zhao, Han and Wei heard of this, they all came to pay homage to Qi. This is what is called a victory won at court.
  313. Holding Your Hand, to Grow Old with YouAnonymous (Folk song of Wey) · AphorismsIn life or death, together or apart, I made my promise to you: I will hold your hand and grow old with you.
  314. Hard-Pressed Like the Nest-Building BirdAnonymous (Book of Songs poet; traditionally the Duke of Zhou) · AphorismsMy claws are cramped with toil as I gather rush flowers.
  315. Banners Blotting Out the SunLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsBanners blot out the sun, the enemy comes like clouds; arrows fall back and forth, and the warriors press forward.
  316. Going to Every LengthZengzi (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsTherefore the gentleman in everything uses his utmost.
  317. Your Majesty Is Deeply Deceived: Zou Ji's Mirror LessonLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsSeen in this light, Your Majesty is deeply deceived!
  318. Master Dengtu: How a Slanderer Became a Byword for LecherySong Yu (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsThe grandee Master Dengtu, attending on the King of Chu, disparaged Song Yu: Yu is handsome and graceful in person, full of subtle words, and lustful by nature.
  319. Those Who Know Me Say My Heart Is Grieved: The Drooping MilletAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsThose who know me say my heart is grieved; those who do not know me ask what I am seeking.
  320. Big Rat, Do Not Eat My Millet: A Peasant's ProtestAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsBig rat, big rat, do not eat my millet!
  321. Eating Without Working: The Sandalwood Cutters' ComplaintAnonymous (compiled by Zhou court musicians) · AphorismsThose gentlemen, oh, they do not eat for nothing!
  322. Treat Others' Elders as Your Own: Mencius on Extending KindnessMencius · AphorismsTreat your own aged as aged, and extend it to the aged of others; treat your own young as young, and extend it to the young of others; then the realm can be turned in the palm of your hand.
  323. Medicine That Does Not Daze Will Not Cure: King Wu Ding's Charge to Fu YueAnonymous (records of court scribes of Yu, Xia, Shang and Zhou; traditionally edited by Confucius) · AphorismsOpen your heart and water mine. If medicine does not make one dizzy, the illness will not be cured.
  324. Planning Far Ahead for One's Children: Chulong Persuades the Queen DowagerLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsWhen parents love their children, they plan far ahead for them.
  325. The Road Ahead Is Long and Far: Qu Yuan's Endless SearchLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsThe road ahead is long and far; I will search for it high and low.
  326. The Reversed Scales Under the Dragon's Throat: Han Fei on PersuasionHan Fei · AphorismsRulers too have reversed scales; if a persuader can avoid brushing against them, he is close to success.
  327. Take People, Not Water, as Your Mirror: Wu Zixu's Warning to FuchaiZuo Qiuming (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsWhy does Your Majesty not take people as your mirror, rather than water?
  328. Condemning Offensive War: Mozi's Argument from Stolen PeachesMozi (Mo Di) (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsBut when the great wrong of attacking a state is done, they do not know to condemn it, and instead praise it and call it righteous.
  329. Heroes Among the Ghosts: Qu Yuan's Hymn for the FallenLiu Xiang (comp.) · AphorismsThough their bodies are dead, their spirits are potent; their unbending souls are heroes among the ghosts!
  330. The Great Bell Discarded, Clay Pots Thundering: Qu Yuan Consults the DivinerLiu Xiang (comp.) · IdiomsThe world is muddy and unclear: a cicada's wing is thought heavy and a thousand catties light; the great yellow bell is smashed and cast away, while clay pots are beaten till they thunder; slanderers strut on high, and worthy men go unknown.