Through the Dynasties · LH3

Zhou

Feudal hierarchies and the Hundred Schools of Thought

221works

5forms

23authors

Classical Poetry

3 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 · Chu ElegiesLong, long is the road and far the journey; I shall search high and low.

Rhapsody & Parallel Prose

4 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.

Classical Prose

16 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 · 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?

Fables & Lore

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 & Idioms

150 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 BellLv Buwei · 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 · 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 · 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 · 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 · 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 SwordLv Buwei · 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 · 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 · 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 · 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 · 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 · 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 · 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 · IdiomsUtterly helpless; there is nothing to be done.
  65. Joy, Anger, Sorrow, and DelightDai Sheng · 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 · 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 · 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 · 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 FishLv Buwei · 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 · 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 ChokingLv Buwei · 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 · 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 Before ActingAnonymous (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 · 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.