Through the Dynasties · LH5

Han

Grand rhapsodies, Music Bureau ballads and the Grand Historian's prose: the literary foundations of Han

479works

6forms

61authors

Poetry

42 works

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

  1. Song of White HairZhuo Wenjun (traditionally attributed) · Yuefu BalladsWhite as snow upon the mountain, bright as the moon between the clouds.
  2. Song of Lament (Zhaojun's Lament)Wang Zhaojun · Yuefu BalladsThe autumn trees grow lush, yet their leaves wither and yellow. There is a bird that dwells in the mountains, gathered upon the thick mulberry.
  3. Han Yuefu · Southeast the Peacocks FlyAnonymous (Han–Wei folk yuefu) · Yuefu BalladsYou should be as the solid rock, I as the supple reed; the reed is tough as silk, the rock shall never move.
  4. Han Yuefu · Long Song (Time Flees Like Rivers)Anonymous (Han yuefu) · Yuefu BalladsA hundred rivers flow east to the sea, when will they return west? If you strive not in youth, you will grieve in vain in age.
  5. Han Yuefu · Jiangnan (Gathering Lotus)Anonymous (Han lotus pickers) · Yuefu BalladsJiangnan is ripe for gathering lotus, how lush are the lily pads! Fish play among the lotus leaves.
  6. Nineteen Ancient Poems · Walking and WalkingAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · Old-Style SongsSeparation stretches longer day by day, robe-sashes grow ever looser. Longing makes one age, the years have swiftly turned late.
  7. Nineteen Ancient Poems · Faraway the Cowherd StarAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · Old-Style SongsAcross a single pool of clear water, gazing in deep affection, unable to speak.
  8. Han Yuefu · Mulberries by the PathAnonymous (Han folk yuefu) · Yuefu BalladsThe Prefect asked Luofu: 'Would you care to ride with me?' Luofu stepped forward and replied: 'How foolish is my Lord! You have your own wife, and Luofu has her own husband!'
  9. Han Yuefu · At Fifteen Conscripted into the ArmyAnonymous (a Han veteran) · Yuefu BalladsConscripted at fifteen to campaign, at eighty I finally return. On the road I meet a villager: 'Who remains in my household?' 'Look yonder where your home stands—graves beneath pines and cypresses cluster row upon row.'
  10. Han Yuefu · By HeavenAnonymous (a woman of the Han) · Yuefu BalladsBy Heaven! I yearn to love you and be your soulmate, for a lifetime without end or waning. When mountains flatten into plains, when great rivers run dry, when winter roars with thunder, when summer falls with snow, when Heaven and Earth unite as one—only then would I dare part from you!
  11. Han Yuefu · One I Yearn ForAnonymous (a woman of the Han) · Yuefu BalladsThere is one I yearn for, far beyond the southern sea. What gift shall I send him? A tortoiseshell hairpin with twin pearls, wrapped with fine jade cords. Hearing you have turned your heart to another, I shatter and burn it to ash. Shatter and burn it, casting its ashes into the wind!
  12. Han Yuefu · Battle South of the CityAnonymous (Han guchui music) · Yuefu BalladsBattling south of city walls, dying north of ramparts; dying untended in the wilds, for ravens to feast upon. Pray tell the ravens for me: 'Weep first for the fallen traveler! Left unburied in the wilderness, how could my rotten flesh flee from your beak?'
  13. Nineteen Ancient Poems · Wading the River to Pluck LotusAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · Old-Style SongsWading across the river to pluck lotus blossoms, the orchid marsh is filled with fragrant herbs. Whom do I wish to send them to? The one I yearn for is far away on the road. United in heart yet dwelling apart, we shall grow old in sorrow.
  14. Nineteen Ancient Poems · In the Northwest Stands a Lofty TowerAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · Old-Style SongsIn the northwest stands a lofty tower, its summit rising level with drifting clouds. Patterned latticework graces delicate windows, multi-tiered terraces rise three flights high. From above comes the sound of stringed music and song, how sorrowful the melody rings! I grieve not for the singer's bitter toil, but mourn that true soulmates are so rare. Would that we were a pair of calling cranes, spreading wings to soar high into the sky.
  15. Nineteen Ancient Poems · Bright Moon How RadiantAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · Old-Style SongsThe bright moon shines how radiant, illuminating the curtains of my silk bed. Beset with grief I cannot sleep, gathering my robes I rise and pace. Though traveling afar is said to be joyous, nothing equals returning early home. Stepping outside the door in solitary wandering, to whom can I utter my sorrowful thoughts?
  16. Nineteen Ancient Poems · In the Courtyard Grows a Rare TreeAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · Old-Style SongsIn the courtyard grows a wondrous tree, green leaves blossoming rich and flourishing. Climbing branches I pluck its blossoms, intending to send them to the one I cherish. Sweet fragrance fills my sleeves and bosom, yet the road is too distant to deliver. How could this blossom be precious in itself? I am merely moved by how long we have been parted.
  17. Song of Harmonious AccordZhang Heng · Yuefu BalladsI wish to be the rush mat, lying below to cover the square bed. I wish to be the silk quilt and curtain, above to shield you from wind and frost.
  18. Ballad of Resentment · The Round FanLady Ban (Ban Jieyu) · Yuefu BalladsFreshly sheared fine white silk from Qi, spotless and pure as frost and snow, tailored into an joined fan shaped round as the full moon. Carried in my lord's sleeves to stir gentle breezes; yet ever fearing the arrival of autumn chill, discarded into the chest when love is severed halfway.
  19. Though the Tortoise Lives LongCao Cao · Old-Style SongsAn old steed lying in its stall still sets its heart on a thousand li; a man of valor in his twilight years keeps his proud heart undimmed.
  20. Two Qin Songs (The Phoenix Seeks His Mate)Sima Xiangru (traditionally attributed) · Yuefu BalladsO phoenix, O phoenix, returning to his old home, who roamed the four seas seeking his mate.
  21. Song of the Great WindLiu Bang · Chu Elegieswhere shall I find brave men to guard the four quarters
  22. Song of GaixiaXiang Yu · Chu ElegiesMy strength could uproot mountains, my spirit overtopped the age
  23. Song of the Autumn WindEmperor Wu of Han (traditionally attributed) · Chu ElegiesThe autumn wind rises, white clouds fly; plants and trees turn yellow and fall, wild geese return south.
  24. Song of the GraveyardCao Cao · Yuefu BalladsWhite bones lie exposed in the fields; for a thousand li no cock crows.
  25. Song in Reply to the King of XiangConsort Yu (traditionally attributed) · Old-Style SongsMy king's spirit is spent: why should your lowly handmaid live on?
  26. Song of the SwanLiu Bang · Old-Style SongsThe swan flies high, a thousand li at a single stroke.
  27. Song for Lady Li (Is It She or Not)Emperor Wu of Han (Liu Che) · Old-Style SongsI stand and gaze at her: why does she come so slowly, so gracefully, so late?
  28. Songs of the Huzi BreachEmperor Wu of Han (Liu Che) · Old-Style SongsTell the Lord of the River for me: why is he so unkind, flooding without end and grieving my people?
  29. Poem of Four SorrowsZhang Heng · Old-Style SongsMy fair one gave me a gold-inlaid knife; what can I give back? Fine jade and gems.
  30. The Eastern City Wall Is High and LongMei Cheng (traditionally attributed) · Old-Style SongsYan and Zhao have many beauties; the loveliest have faces like jade.
  31. Orchids Grow in the Spring SunMei Cheng (traditionally attributed) · Old-Style SongsMy beauty is beyond the clouds; the road to heaven is barred, with no day to meet.
  32. A Song of the Peerless Beauty, with PrefaceLi Yannian · Yuefu BalladsOne glance from her topples a city; a second glance topples a state.
  33. Farewell to My WifeSu Wu · Old-Style SongsSince we bound up our hair as husband and wife, our love has known no doubt on either side.
  34. The Officer of the Feathered Forest GuardXin Yannian · Old-Style SongsA man may love his later wife, but a woman holds to her first husband.
  35. Peach and Plum by the Road East of LuoyangSong Zihou · Old-Style SongsIn autumn we wither of ourselves, but in spring we bloom sweet again.
  36. Poems Sent to My WifeQin Jia · Old-Style SongsHuman life is like the morning dew; our time in the world is full of hardship.
  37. Reply to My HusbandXu Shu · Chu ElegiesI regret I have no wings to fly high and follow you.
  38. Watering Horses at the Great Wall Spring · Green Grass by the RiverCai Yong (traditionally attributed) · Yuefu BalladsI called my son to cook the carp; inside was a letter on a foot of white silk.
  39. Longing in an Empty RoomXu Gan · Old-Style SongsSince you went away, my bright mirror has dimmed, left uncared for.
  40. A Love Poem: For Whom Should I Adorn MyselfXu Gan · Old-Style SongsYou have gone and never come back; for whom should I adorn myself?
  41. Pledging LoveFan Qin · Old-Style SongsHow shall I show my devotion? With twin gold bracelets on my arms.
  42. Watering Horses at the Great Wall Spring · Bones Beneath the WallChen Lin · Yuefu BalladsIf you bear a son, take care not to raise him; if you bear a girl, feed her on dried meat.

Rhapsodies

28 works

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

  1. Rhapsody Mourning Qu YuanJia Yi · Grand Han RhapsodiesThe luan and the phoenix hide and flee, while owls soar on high.
  2. Rhapsody on the OwlJia Yi · Grand Han RhapsodiesHeaven and earth are the furnace, creation is the smith; yin and yang are the charcoal, all things the bronze.
  3. Rhapsody of Master VoidSima Xiangru · Grand Han RhapsodiesI have heard that Chu has seven marshes; I have seen one of them but never the rest.
  4. Rhapsody on the Imperial Shanglin ParkSima Xiangru · Grand Han RhapsodiesVast and broad, eight rivers part and flow, turning their backs on one another in differing forms.
  5. Rhapsody on the Long Gate PalaceSima Xiangru (traditionally attributed) · Grand Han RhapsodiesSuddenly I fall asleep and dream, and in spirit my lord seems to be at my side.
  6. Rhapsody on Returning to the FieldsZhang Heng · Short RhapsodiesNow it is the fine month of mid-spring; the season is mild and the air is clear. Plains and wetlands are lush, and all the grasses flourish.
  7. Rhapsody on the Feathered HuntYang Xiong · Grand Han RhapsodiesBanners that swept the sky were raised and pennants that brushed the stars trailed behind;
  8. Rhapsody on Expelling PovertyYang Xiong · Short RhapsodiesOthers all wear embroidery, while my coarse cloth is in tatters. Others all eat rice and millet, while I alone dine on goosefoot.
  9. Rhapsodies on the Two CapitalsBan Gu · Grand Han RhapsodiesThe rhapsody is a stream that flows from the ancient Odes.
  10. Rhapsodies on the Two MetropolisesZhang Heng · Grand Han RhapsodiesRefined in thought and carefully composed, it took ten years to complete.
  11. Rhapsody on the Great ManSima Xiangru · Grand Han RhapsodiesIn the world there is a Great Man, who dwells in the Central Land. Though his estate stretches ten thousand li, it cannot hold him even for a while.
  12. Lament for the Second Emperor of QinSima Xiangru · Grand Han RhapsodiesHe was not careful in his conduct, and so lost his state and his power. He trusted slander and never awoke, and his ancestral temple was destroyed.
  13. Rhapsody on a BeautySima Xiangru (traditionally attributed) · Grand Han RhapsodiesThat is like guarding against fire by standing in water, or avoiding drowning by keeping to a mountain corner: they had never seen what might tempt them, so how could that prove they were not fond of women?
  14. Rhapsody on the Eastward JourneyBan Zhao · Short RhapsodiesOnly fine virtue does not perish; when the body is gone, the name remains.
  15. Rhapsody on the Scholar's Failure to Meet His TimeDong Zhongshu · Short RhapsodiesI was not born in the flourishing of the Three Dynasties, but in the decadent customs of the last ages.
  16. Rhapsody Lamenting the Scholar's Failure to Meet His TimeSima Qian · Short RhapsodiesTo die unknown to the world is what the ancients felt as shame.
  17. Rhapsody on the Ganquan PalaceYang Xiong · Grand Han RhapsodiesThen the great halls, shifting like clouds and strange as waves, rise in towering heaps into lookout towers.
  18. Admonitions for the Twelve ProvincesYang Xiong · Admonitions, Inscriptions & EulogiesSo in order do not forget disorder; in safety do not forget danger.
  19. Admonition on WineYang Xiong · Admonitions, Inscriptions & EulogiesSeen this way, what fault has wine?
  20. Motto at the Right of My SeatCui Yuan · Admonitions, Inscriptions & EulogiesDo not speak of others' faults; do not talk of your own strengths.
  21. In Praise of Zhao ChongguoYang Xiong · Admonitions, Inscriptions & EulogiesHe gauged the enemy and won the victory, his might and plans never overreaching.
  22. Lament for Broken FaithJia Yi (traditionally attributed) · Grand Han RhapsodiesIf the qilin could be haltered and tied, how would it differ from dogs and sheep?
  23. Rhapsody on HedongYang Xiong · Grand Han RhapsodiesStanding by the river envying the fish is not as good as going home to weave a net.
  24. Resolving ObjectionsYang Xiong · Grand Han RhapsodiesThe great flavour must be bland; the great sound must be faint.
  25. A Rejoinder to Encountering SorrowYang Xiong · Grand Han RhapsodiesThat sages and wise men meet no fitting time is simply part of fate.
  26. Rhapsody on the DanceFu Yi · Grand Han RhapsodiesBodies like swimming dragons, sleeves like white rainbows.
  27. Rhapsody Mourning Lady LiEmperor Wu of Han · Grand Han RhapsodiesMy thoughts flow like waves; the pain is in my heart.
  28. Rhapsody on Contemplating the MysteryZhang Heng · Grand Han RhapsodiesWithout going out of the door one may know the world; why travel far and toil?

Prose

45 works

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

  1. Letter in Reply to Ren AnSima Qian · Letters & PrefacesEvery man must die once; a death may be weightier than Mount Tai or lighter than a goose feather, according to what it is used for.
  2. Faults of QinJia Yi · Essays & MemorialsA single commoner rebelled and the imperial ancestral shrines collapsed, their dynastic line exterminated to become the laughingstock of the realm—why? Because benevolence and righteousness were not practiced, and the strategy of taking power differs from preserving it.
  3. Memorial on Security and StatecraftJia Yi · Essays & MemorialsTo put a fire under a pile of firewood and sleep on top of it, and to call it safe because the flames have not yet caught.
  4. Memorial on Elevating the Value of GrainChao Cuo · Essays & MemorialsPearls, jade, gold and silver cannot be eaten when one is hungry nor worn when one is cold.
  5. Reply to a Guest's ObjectionDongfang Shuo · Essays & MemorialsThat was one time and this is another; how can they be the same?
  6. Letter of FarewellZhuo Wenjun (traditionally attributed) · Letters & PrefacesThe vermilion string is snapped, the bright mirror cracked; the morning dew has dried, the fair face faded.
  7. Memorial Submitted from Prison to the Prince of LiangZou Yang · Essays & MemorialsSome keep company until their hair turns white and are still strangers; some tilt their carriage canopies in passing and are old friends at once.
  8. Letter in Reply to Sun HuizongYang Yun · Letters & PrefacesFarm families work hard; at the summer and winter festivals we boil a sheep and roast a lamb and cheer ourselves with a dipper of wine.
  9. Letter Admonishing Nephews Yan and DunMa Yuan · Letters & PrefacesI desire you all, upon hearing others' faults, to treat it as hearing your parents' names: ears may listen, but mouths must never utter them. Emulating Bogao imperfectly still yields a prudent gentleman—carving a swan that resembles a duck; emulating Jiliang imperfectly degrades into frivolous insolence—drawing a tiger that ends up looking like a dog.
  10. Records of the Grand HistorianSima Qian · Historical NarrativeTo probe the boundary between Heaven and humankind, to comprehend the changes of past and present, and to form a single school's word.
  11. Book of HanBan Gu · Historical NarrativeBetter to go home and weave a net than to stand by the pool longing for fish.
  12. Huainanzi (The Masters of Huainan)Liu An (comp.) · Pre-Qin MastersThe Way covers Heaven and upholds Earth; it extends the four directions and opens the eight extremities; so high it cannot be reached, so deep it cannot be fathomed.
  13. Book of RitesDai Sheng (comp.) · Pre-Qin MastersWhen the Great Way prevailed, the world belonged to all.
  14. Proclamation to Ba and ShuSima Xiangru · Essays & MemorialsThey face naked blades and brave flying arrows; duty forbids them to look back, and their resolve does not let them turn on their heels. Each harbours anger in his heart as if avenging a personal wrong.
  15. Rebuttal to the Elders of ShuSima Xiangru · Essays & MemorialsThere must first be extraordinary men in the world before there can be extraordinary undertakings, and extraordinary undertakings before there can be extraordinary achievements.
  16. Memorial Remonstrating against the HuntSima Xiangru · Essays & MemorialsThe clear-sighted see far ahead, before things sprout, and the wise avoid danger before it takes shape.
  17. Essay on the Feng and Shan SacrificesSima Xiangru · Essays & MemorialsThe virtue of the sage king is cautious and reverent. Therefore it is said: in prosperity one must think of decline, in security one must think of danger.
  18. Luxuriant Dew of the Spring and AutumnDong Zhongshu (traditionally attributed) · Pre-Qin MastersThe three bonds of the kingly Way can be sought in Heaven.
  19. Admonitions for WomenBan Zhao · Letters & PrefacesA woman has four kinds of conduct: womanly virtue, womanly speech, womanly bearing and womanly work.
  20. Discourses on Salt and IronHuan Kuan · Essays & MemorialsLead the people with virtue and they return to sincerity; show them profit and their customs grow shallow.
  21. Memorial on Military AffairsChao Cuo · Essays & MemorialsThere are generals sure to win, but no people sure to win.
  22. Memorial Asking to Be Relieved and ReturnBan Chao · Essays & MemorialsI dare not hope to reach Jiuquan commandery; I only wish to enter the Jade Gate Pass alive.
  23. Edict Declining Counties and Setting Out My True AimsCao Cao · Essays & MemorialsHad the state not had me, who knows how many would have called themselves emperor, how many king.
  24. Sutra of Forty-Two SectionsKasyapa Matanga, Dharmaratna (traditionally attributed) · Essays & MemorialsLong ago Emperor Ming of the Han dreamed one night of a divine man whose body was golden and who had sunlight about his neck
  25. Edict Abolishing Mutilating PunishmentsEmperor Wen of Han · Essays & MemorialsNow when people do wrong, are they to be punished before they have been taught?
  26. Memorial on Guarding the Frontier and Encouraging FarmingChao Cuo · Essays & Memorialslike birds and beasts in the open country, they stop where grass is good and water sweet, and move when the grass is gone and water dried up.
  27. Memorial Asking that My Brother Chao Be RelievedBan Zhao · Essays & MemorialsChao is the eldest; he is now nearly seventy. Old and sick, his hair has no black left, his hands are numb, his ears and eyes are dull, and he can walk only with a staff.
  28. Spring and Autumn of Wu and YueZhao Ye · Historical NarrativeI have heard that worthy men are the treasure of a state and beautiful women its bane.
  29. Monthly Ordinances for the Four ClassesCui Shi · NotebooksAn Eastern Han household almanac of farming, chores and rites month by month.
  30. Comprehensive Meaning of CustomsYing Shao · NotebooksExplaining the names of things and clearing up doubts about popular custom.
  31. Stele of Cao EHandan Chun · Epitaphs & ElegiesA stele text for the filial daughter Cao E, who drowned searching for her father.
  32. Faults of Qin, Part TwoJia Yi · Essays & MemorialsConquest values guile and force, peace values timeliness: taking and keeping differ.
  33. Faults of Qin, Part ThreeJia Yi · Essays & MemorialsPast events not forgotten are teachers for what follows.
  34. Preface to the Table of the Twelve Feudal LordsSima Qian · Letters & PrefacesThe Grand Historian, reading the chronicles and genealogies of the Spring and Autumn period, came to King Li of Zhou and never failed to put down the book and sigh.
  35. Preface to the Table of the Six StatesSima Qian · Letters & PrefacesScholars, bound by what they have heard, see that Qin held the imperial throne only briefly, do not examine its beginning and end, and so all join in laughing at it: this is no different from eating with one's ears.
  36. Preface to the Monthly Table of the Years Between Qin and ChuSima Qian · Letters & PrefacesWithin five years, the power to command changed hands three times. Since the birth of the people there has never been a receiving of the Mandate so swift.
  37. Preface to the Table of the Feudal Lords Since the Rise of HanSima Qian · Letters & PrefacesHan's eighty or ninety commanderies lay interlaced among the lords like a dog's teeth, holding the passes and strategic ground in a pattern of strong trunk and weak branches.
  38. Preface to the Table of Gaozu's Meritorious MinistersSima Qian · Letters & PrefacesUntil the Yellow River is like a belt and Mount Tai like a whetstone, may your state be at peace for ever and pass to your descendants.
  39. Preface to the Table of Marquises Created Since the Jianyuan EraSima Qian · Letters & PrefacesHow could he sit at ease and wage no wars on the frontiers?
  40. Preface to the Strategies of the Warring StatesLiu Xiang · Letters & PrefacesThey produced rare plans and unusual wisdom, turning danger into safety and ruin into survival; they too are delightful.
  41. Preface to the Table of the Feudal Kings of HanBan Gu · Letters & PrefacesThe great vassal states straddled provinces and joined commanderies, with dozens of walled towns, and palaces and officials on the pattern of the capital: this can be called bending the crooked past straight.
  42. Memorial on Laying Up StoresJia Yi · Essays & MemorialsStores laid up are the great lifeline of the realm.
  43. Inscription for the Sealing of Mount YanranBan Gu · Epitaphs & ElegiesThis may be called one labour for lasting ease, a brief cost for enduring peace.
  44. Discourse of Master NonesuchDongfang Shuo · Essays & MemorialsSpeaking is no easy thing!
  45. Dispelling RidiculeYang Xiong · Essays & MemorialsWhat blazes is extinguished; what thunders is cut off.

Fables

24 works

Philosophical fables, historical allusion narratives, and primordial mythology.

  1. The Bow's Reflection in the CupYing Shao · Historical AllusionsSuspicion breeds phantoms; once the truth is examined, the fear disappears.
  2. Playing the Lute to a CowMouzi · Satirical ParablesKnow your audience; speak in a way the listener can understand.
  3. The Old Man at the Frontier Loses His HorseLiu An · Philosophers' FablesFortune and misfortune turn into each other; don't overreact to a single gain or loss.
  4. Lord She Loves DragonsLiu Xiang · Satirical ParablesA professed love may not survive meeting the real thing.
  5. When the Birds Are Gone, the Bow Is Stored AwaySima Qian · Historical AllusionsKnowing when to withdraw after success protects you from a jealous ruler.
  6. The Overturned Cart Ahead as a WarningBan Gu · Satirical ParablesOthers' failures are a mirror; ignore their lesson and you repeat their fall.
  7. An Arrow at the End of Its FlightSima Qian · Historical AllusionsEven great strength runs out; act while your force is at its peak.
  8. Little Seen, Much Marveled AtMouzi · Satirical ParablesOnly the inexperienced are easily astonished; the unfamiliar is not the impossible.
  9. Poking Its Head Out Both Ways Like a RatSima Qian · Historical AllusionsSitting on the fence at a critical moment usually pleases neither side.
  10. Dead Ashes Flaring Up AgainSima Qian · Historical AllusionsDon't bully the fallen while you are on top; fortunes can reverse at any time.
  11. Hesitating to Hit the Rat for Fear of Breaking the VaseBan Gu · Satirical ParablesWeigh collateral damage when striking wrongdoers, but don't use it as an excuse for inaction.
  12. When the Hare Is Dead, the Hound Is CookedSima Qian · Historical AllusionsA ruler who shares only hardship often turns on his helpers once victory comes.
  13. As Precarious as Stacked EggsSima Qian · Historical AllusionsA situation without a stable base collapses at the slightest shock.
  14. Xiang Zhuang's Sword Dance Aims at the Lord of PeiSima Qian · Historical AllusionsBeneath an innocent-looking act often lies a hidden aim.
  15. A Single Cry That Astonishes the WorldSima Qian · Historical AllusionsSilence is not weakness; gathered strength can burst forth to astonish all.
  16. Badgers from the Same HillBan Gu · Satirical ParablesBlunt truths feel satisfying, but timing and discretion still matter.
  17. Testing the Law with One's Own BodyBan Gu · Satirical ParablesKnowingly breaking the law means knowingly accepting its consequences.
  18. Devising Strategy Within the TentSima Qian · Historical AllusionsA true leader need not excel at everything, but must know how to use others' talents.
  19. Kindred Spirits on a Shared PathBan Gu · Satirical ParablesTrue companionship lies in shared aims, not in constant company.
  20. Nüwa Mends the HeavensAnonymous · Ancient MythsNüwa smelted stones of five colors to patch the azure sky.
  21. Yi Shoots Down the SunsAnonymous · Ancient MythsAbove, he shot the ten suns; below, he killed Yayu.
  22. Chang'e Flies to the MoonAnonymous · Ancient MythsHeng'e stole it and fled to the moon; he was left despondent, with no way to replace it.
  23. Gonggong Topples Mount BuzhouAnonymous · Ancient MythsHeaven tilted toward the northwest, and so the sun, moon, stars and planets shifted that way.
  24. The Cowherd and the Weaver GirlAnonymous · Folk LegendsJust one brimming stretch of water between them, yet they gaze and gaze and cannot speak.

Sayings

339 works

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

  1. Chang'e Flies to the MoonLiu An (comp.) · IdiomsChang'e swallows the elixir of immortality and flies to the moon; a myth evoking longing and the moon's beauty.
  2. Nüwa Mends the SkyLiu An (comp.) · IdiomsThe goddess Nüwa smelts five-colored stones to repair the broken sky; heroic effort to set a collapsing world right.
  3. A Bow's Reflection Mistaken for a SnakeYing Shao · IdiomsMistaking a bow reflected in a wine cup for a snake; needless fear born of groundless suspicion.
  4. The Cowherd and the Weaver GirlAnonymous · IdiomsLovers separated by the Milky Way who meet once a year; couples living apart who rarely reunite.
  5. Sleeping on Brushwood and Tasting GallSima Qian · IdiomsKing Goujian slept on brushwood and tasted gall to remember his humiliation; enduring hardship to prepare for revenge or success.
  6. Bearing Brambles to Beg ForgivenessSima Qian · IdiomsGeneral Lian Po carried thorny brambles on his back to apologize; sincerely admitting fault and asking forgiveness.
  7. Returning the Jade Intact to ZhaoSima Qian · IdiomsLin Xiangru brought the precious jade back safely to Zhao; returning something intact to its rightful owner.
  8. Calling a Deer a HorseSima Qian · IdiomsZhao Gao presented a deer as a horse to test officials' loyalty; deliberately distorting truth and falsehood.
  9. Songs of Chu on All SidesSima Qian · IdiomsXiang Yu, besieged, heard Chu songs from every side; surrounded by enemies and utterly isolated.
  10. Fighting with One's Back to the RiverSima Qian · IdiomsHan Xin deployed troops with a river behind them, cutting off retreat; a desperate all-or-nothing fight.
  11. Mao Sui Recommends HimselfSima Qian · IdiomsMao Sui volunteered to join his lord's mission to Chu; stepping forward to recommend oneself for a task.
  12. Breaking the Cauldrons and Sinking the BoatsSima Qian · IdiomsXiang Yu smashed cooking pots and sank his boats after crossing the river; total commitment with no retreat.
  13. Waging War on PaperSima Qian · IdiomsZhao Kuo knew military texts but lost disastrously in battle; empty theorizing with no practical ability.
  14. Playing the Lute to a CowMou Rong · IdiomsPlaying refined music to a cow; wasting words on an audience that cannot understand or appreciate them.
  15. The Old Frontiersman Loses His HorseLiu An (comp.) · IdiomsAn old man's lost horse returns with a fine steed; misfortune may prove a blessing in disguise.
  16. A Promise Worth a Thousand GoldSima Qian · IdiomsA single promise is worth a thousand pieces of gold; absolute trustworthiness in keeping one's word.
  17. One Word Weighs as Much as Nine TripodsSima Qian · IdiomsWords as weighty as the nine sacred tripods; speech that carries decisive authority.
  18. Living in Peace and Working in ContentmentBan Gu · IdiomsLiving in security and working happily at one's trade; a peaceful, well-ordered society.
  19. Shivering Without ColdSima Qian · IdiomsTrembling though not cold; gripped by fear or dread.
  20. Agreeing Without Prior ArrangementSima Qian · IdiomsActing or speaking in unison without any prior agreement.
  21. The Great Task Is AccomplishedBan Gu · IdiomsA great undertaking or important task has finally been completed.
  22. Brimming with Self-SatisfactionSima Qian · IdiomsLooking very pleased with oneself; smug and complacent.
  23. The Swift-Footed Arrive FirstSima Qian · IdiomsThe quickest to act gets there first and wins the prize.
  24. One Hair from Nine OxenSima Qian · IdiomsA negligible fraction of a vast amount; a drop in the ocean.
  25. Seen So Often It Is Nothing NewSima Qian · IdiomsSo common that it is no longer surprising.
  26. All Previous Effort WastedSima Qian · IdiomsAll previous efforts and achievements come to nothing.
  27. Lord Ye Loves DragonsLiu Xiang · IdiomsLord Ye professes to love dragons but flees a real one; professed love that is not genuine.
  28. Seek Truth from FactsBan Gu · IdiomsTo base conclusions on facts and seek the truth from reality.
  29. First to Bear the BruntBan Gu · IdiomsTo be the first to face an attack or bear the brunt of a disaster.
  30. Strike First to Gain ControlBan Gu · IdiomsStrike first to gain the upper hand.
  31. Passing Fish Eyes Off as PearlsWei Boyang · IdiomsPassing off fish eyes as pearls; palming off fakes as genuine.
  32. Unbending after a Hundred SetbacksCai Yong · IdiomsNever yielding however many setbacks one suffers; describes indomitable will.
  33. Clinging to the Broken and IncompleteLiu Xin · IdiomsClinging to fragmentary old texts; stubbornly conservative and resistant to change.
  34. Without Learning or SkillBan Gu · IdiomsHaving neither learning nor skill; ignorant and incompetent.
  35. Not Worth MentioningSima Qian · IdiomsNot worth mentioning; often a modest reply to thanks or praise.
  36. Issuing Orders at Dawn, Changing Them at DuskChao Cuo · IdiomsAn order given at dawn is changed by dusk; constantly shifting policies.
  37. Honest Advice Grates on the EarSima Qian · IdiomsSincere advice is unpleasant to hear but good for one's conduct; urges accepting criticism.
  38. Weightier than Mount TaiSima Qian · IdiomsHeavier than Mount Tai; of the utmost significance, especially a death for a worthy cause.
  39. Standing Out from the CrowdBan Gu · IdiomsOf outstanding talent and virtue, far above the ordinary.
  40. Holding One Front AloneSima Qian · IdiomsCapable of taking sole charge of one area or front.
  41. Mending One's WaysSima Qian · IdiomsCorrecting one's mistakes and making a fresh start.
  42. Misfortunes Never Come SinglyLiu Xiang · IdiomsMisfortunes tend to come one after another rather than alone.
  43. Many Littles Make a LotBan Gu · IdiomsSmall amounts steadily accumulated add up to a great deal.
  44. Nothing but Four Bare WallsSima Qian · IdiomsA home with nothing but four bare walls; utter poverty.
  45. Forgetting Righteousness at the Sight of GainBan Gu · IdiomsTo abandon principle and loyalty at the sight of personal gain.
  46. Overcorrecting a WrongBan Gu · IdiomsTo overcorrect an error so that one swings to the opposite extreme.
  47. Raising Bamboo Poles in RevoltJia Yi · IdiomsTo raise bamboo poles as banners and rise in revolt; a popular uprising.
  48. Seeking a Steed by Its PictureBan Gu · IdiomsLooking for a fine horse by a picture; rigidly following rules, or searching by clues.
  49. Birds Gone, the Bow Is Put AwaySima Qian · IdiomsOnce the birds are shot, the bow is stored away; discarding loyal helpers after success.
  50. The Overturned Cart Ahead as a WarningBan Gu · IdiomsThe cart ahead overturned serves as a warning; learning from others' past failures.
  51. The Spent Arrow of a Strong CrossbowSima Qian · IdiomsAn arrow from a mighty crossbow at the end of its flight; once-great strength now spent.
  52. Little Seen, Much Marveled AtMou Rong · IdiomsThose who have seen little marvel at the ordinary; mocks a lack of experience.
  53. A Rat Peering Both WaysSima Qian · IdiomsLike a rat poking its head out and looking both ways; wavering and indecisive.
  54. Dead Ashes Flare Up AgainSima Qian · IdiomsDead ashes rekindling; a fallen force regaining power, or a suppressed evil reviving.
  55. The Mantis Stalks the Cicada, Unaware of the Oriole BehindLiu Xiang · ProverbsThe mantis stalks the cicada while an oriole waits behind; eyeing gain while blind to danger.
  56. Hesitating to Throw at a Rat for Fear of the VaseBan Gu · IdiomsWanting to hit the rat but fearing to break the vessel beside it; restrained by side concerns.
  57. The Hare Dead, the Hound Is CookedSima Qian · IdiomsOnce the hare is caught, the hound is cooked; discarding or killing helpers after success.
  58. Precarious as Stacked EggsSima Qian · IdiomsAs precarious as a stack of eggs; an extremely perilous situation.
  59. Xiang Zhuang's Sword Dance Aims at the Duke of PeiSima Qian · ProverbsXiang Zhuang's sword dance was aimed at Liu Bang; an act whose real purpose is hidden.
  60. Amazing the World with a Single CrySima Qian · IdiomsA bird silent for years whose first cry astonishes all; a sudden, remarkable achievement.
  61. Badgers from the Same HillBan Gu · IdiomsBadgers of the same hill; people equally bad, birds of a feather.
  62. Putting Oneself to the Test of the LawBan Gu · IdiomsTo test the law with one's own conduct; knowingly breaking the law.
  63. Devising Strategy Within the TentSima Qian · IdiomsPlanning strategy inside the command tent; directing operations through careful planning.
  64. The Old Steed in the StableCao Cao · IdiomsAn old steed lying by the trough still sets its heart on a thousand li;
  65. An Old Hero's Heart Still BurnsCao Cao · AphorismsA man of high purpose in his twilight years does not let his great heart rest.
  66. Deep Plans and Far-Sighted ThoughtJia Yi · IdiomsIn deep planning and far-sighted thought, and in the ways of marching and commanding troops, they were no match for the men of earlier times.
  67. A School of One's OwnSima Qian · IdiomsI also wished to explore the boundary between Heaven and humanity, to understand the changes from past to present, and to complete a school of thought of my own.
  68. The World Belongs to AllDai Sheng (comp.) · IdiomsWhen the Great Way prevailed, the world was shared by all; the worthy and able were chosen, and trust and harmony were cultivated.
  69. Teaching and Learning Grow TogetherDai Sheng (comp.) · IdiomsKnowing one's difficulties, one can then strive to become stronger; hence it is said that teaching and learning advance each other.
  70. Uncarved Jade Makes No VesselDai Sheng (comp.) · AphorismsJade that is not carved does not become a vessel;
  71. Friends unto DeathSima Qian · IdiomsIn the end they were reconciled in joy and became friends who would die for each other.
  72. Peerless Among the Nation's TalentsSima Qian · IdiomsBut as for Han Xin, he is a talent without equal in the whole nation.
  73. How Can Sparrows Know the Swan's Ambition?Sima Qian · IdiomsHow could swallows and sparrows know the ambitions of the swan!
  74. Peach and Plum Trees Say Nothing, Yet Paths Form Beneath ThemSima Qian · AphorismsA proverb says: 'Peach and plum trees do not speak, yet a path forms beneath them of itself.'
  75. Idle in Youth, Grieving in Old AgeAnonymous (Han yuefu) · AphorismsIf you do not exert yourself while young and strong, in old age you will grieve in vain.
  76. The Boy Can Be TaughtSima Qian · IdiomsThe old man went about a li, came back and said: 'The boy can be taught.'
  77. Rolling Up the Realm Like a MatJia Yi · IdiomsDuke Xiao of Qin held the strongholds of Mount Xiao and the Hangu Pass and the lands of Yongzhou; ruler and ministers held firm and watched the house of Zhou, intending to roll up the realm like a mat, wrap up all within the universe and bag the four seas, with a heart set on swallowing the eight directions.
  78. Fortune Lies Within MisfortuneJia Yi · AphorismsMisfortune is what good fortune leans upon; good fortune is where misfortune lies hidden;
  79. Setting All Under Heaven to RightsSima Qian · IdiomsDuke Huan of Qi became overlord, assembled the lords nine times and set all under heaven to rights; this was Guan Zhong's planning.
  80. The Whole Banquet Won Over by Sima XiangruSima Qian · IdiomsXiangru had no choice but to go, and the whole company was captivated.
  81. The Whole Gathering Astonished by Li ShaojunSima Qian · IdiomsThe old man had gone there with his grandfather as a child and recognized the place, and the whole gathering was astonished.
  82. One Destination, a Hundred Lines of ThoughtSima Qian · IdiomsAll under heaven arrive at the same place by different roads, and reach one goal through a hundred lines of thought.
  83. A Thousand Gold for the Washerwoman's MealSima Qian · IdiomsHan Xin was fishing below the city wall where women were rinsing silk; one saw that he was hungry and fed him, until the rinsing was done some dozens of days later.
  84. Three Obediences and Four Virtues for WomenBan Zhao · IdiomsA woman has the principle of three obediences and no way of acting on her own: before marriage she follows her father, once married her husband, and when her husband dies her son.
  85. Bowing Lower With Each PromotionSima Qian · IdiomsAt the first appointment I bent my back, at the second I bowed, at the third I bent low; I walk along the wall, and no one dares insult me.
  86. Teaching From Behind a Lowered CurtainSima Qian · AphorismsHe lectured behind a lowered curtain; his disciples passed the teaching on in order of seniority, and some never saw his face.
  87. Too Many to Be ToldSima Qian · IdiomsIf I truly reach them and return to Han, the gifts Han will send Your Majesty will be beyond telling.
  88. Not Destined to Die a Natural DeathSima Qian · IdiomsA man like You, I fear, will not die a natural death.
  89. Unable to Grasp the Crux of the MatterSima Qian · IdiomsZhang Qian went from the Yuezhi to Daxia, but in the end could not get the crux of the Yuezhi's intentions.
  90. Yan Hui Keeps His Joy in a Mean AlleySima Qian · IdiomsA basket of rice, a gourd of water, in a mean alley: others could not bear the hardship, but Hui never changed his joy.
  91. Eight Hundred Lords Gathering Unbidden at MengjinSima Qian · IdiomsAt this time, eight hundred lords came to Mengjin without any appointment.
  92. A Sovereign's Worry, His Servant's ShameSima Qian · IdiomsI have heard that when the ruler is troubled, his servants are disgraced.
  93. Nine Times Assembling the Lords for Duke HuanSima Qian · AphorismsOnce Guan Zhong was employed and ran the government of Qi, Duke Huan became overlord, assembling the lords nine times and setting all under heaven to rights; this was Guan Zhong's planning.
  94. One Script for the Whole Qin EmpireSima Qian · AphorismsHe unified laws, weights and measures; carts shared one axle width; writing used one script.
  95. Wei Qing: Born a Slave, Content to Escape the WhipSima Qian · AphorismsBorn a slave, I am content if I escape beatings and curses; how could I hope to become a marquis!
  96. Every Person Provided For, Every Household in PlentySima Qian · IdiomsIn sum, strengthening the root and limiting spending is the way to make every person provided for and every household sufficient.
  97. The He Jade Worth Fifteen CitiesSima Qian · IdiomsHearing of it, King Zhao of Qin sent a letter to the king of Zhao, offering fifteen cities in exchange for the jade.
  98. All the World Drunk, Qu Yuan Alone SoberSima Qian · AphorismsThe whole world is muddy and I alone am clean; all men are drunk and I alone am sober; that is why I was banished.
  99. The Good Common People of All Under HeavenSima Qian · IdiomsLet us join as brothers, so as to protect the good common people of all under heaven.
  100. Putting Others First and Oneself AfterBan Zhao · IdiomsBe modest and respectful, put others first and yourself after; do not boast of good deeds nor deny your faults.
  101. Restraining the Self to Return to Ritual ProprietySima Qian · IdiomsRestrain yourself and return to ritual, and all under heaven will turn to benevolence.
  102. Envoys' Caps and Canopies in an Endless StreamSima Qian · IdiomsSo I sent envoys whose caps and canopies were always in sight of one another, their wheel tracks joined on the road, to convey my wishes to the Chanyu.
  103. Deciding Victory a Thousand Miles AwaySima Qian · IdiomsDevising strategy within the tent and deciding victory a thousand li away: that was Zhang Liang's achievement.
  104. Haughty at First, Humble AfterwardSima Qian · IdiomsSu Qin laughed and asked his sister-in-law: why were you haughty before and so humble now?
  105. The Vanguard Turns Its Weapons AroundSima Qian · IdiomsThough King Zhou's troops were many, none had the heart to fight; they wished King Wu would come in quickly. They all turned their weapons and fought to open the way for King Wu.
  106. Great Hardship Borne, Great Merit WonSima Qian · IdiomsHe toiled so hard and achieved so much, yet has no title as reward; instead you heed petty slander and want to kill a man of merit.
  107. Wearing Out the Body and Searing the MindSima Qian · IdiomsGrieved that his father Gun had been executed for failing in his task, Yu wore out his body and racked his mind; he lived away for thirteen years and did not dare enter his home when he passed it.
  108. Rivals Whose Power Cannot Both StandSima Qian · IdiomsQin fears no one more than Chu: if Chu is strong Qin is weak, and if Qin is strong Chu is weak; their power cannot both stand.
  109. A Son of a House Worth a Thousand in GoldSima Qian · IdiomsThe proverb says: the son of a house worth a thousand in gold does not die in the marketplace. These are no empty words.
  110. Ascending the Hall and Entering the Inner ChamberSima Qian · IdiomsZilu has ascended the hall, but has not yet entered the inner chamber.
  111. Broad in Learning but Short on EssentialsSima Qian · IdiomsThe Confucians are broad but lack essentials, laboring much for little result, so their teachings are hard to follow fully.
  112. Too Troubled to Rest on One's MatSima Qian · IdiomsI cannot rest on my mat or taste my food; my heart sways like a banner in the wind with nothing to settle on.
  113. More Perilous Than a Stack of EggsSima Qian · IdiomsThe King of Qin's state is more perilous than a stack of eggs; with me it will be safe.
  114. Leaving the Old Home for a New PostBan Zhao · IdiomsSo I left the old and went to the new, my heart heavy with sorrow!
  115. Fan Li Takes a New Name and Sails AwaySima Qian · IdiomsHe sailed off in a small boat on the rivers and lakes, changed his name and surname, became Chiyi Zipi in Qi and Lord Zhu in Tao.
  116. Faces Blanch and Expressions ChangeSima Qian · IdiomsThat day, of all the officials who watched Fan Ju's audience, there was none whose face did not blanch and change.
  117. Each Serving His Own Lord LoyallySima Qian · IdiomsMinisters each serve their own lords. The land has not yet gone to Qin, and Qin sends Zhang Yi: it shows the greatest respect for Your Majesty.
  118. Mourning the Dead and Visiting the Sick of YueSima Qian · IdiomsThe King of Yue eats only one dish and wears only one color, mourns the dead and visits the sick, because he means to make use of his people.
  119. Different Roads to the Same DestinationSima Qian · IdiomsAll under heaven share one aim through a hundred thoughts, one destination by different roads.
  120. Spitting Out Food and Clutching Wet Hair to Greet the WorthySima Qian · IdiomsIn one bath I clutch my wet hair three times, in one meal I spit out my food three times, to rise and receive scholars, still fearing to lose the worthy men of the world.
  121. Let the Ruler Be a Ruler and the Minister a MinisterSima Qian · AphorismsDuke Jing asked Confucius about government. Confucius said: let the ruler be a ruler, the minister a minister, the father a father, the son a son.
  122. Obeying Whatever One Is CommandedSima Qian · IdiomsWe ask the ministers to enthrone the prince who rightly should succeed; we will obey whatever is commanded.
  123. A Heart Spoken Through the Zither at the BanquetSima Qian · IdiomsZhuo Wangsun had a daughter, Wenjun, newly widowed, who loved music; so Xiangru, feigning deference to the magistrate, stirred her heart with his zither.
  124. Cutting Through Mountains and Filling Valleys for the Straight RoadSima Qian · IdiomsI saw the walls and watchtowers Meng Tian built for Qin, cutting mountains and filling valleys to open the Straight Road; truly he made light of the people's strength.
  125. A Valiant Heart That Never Rests in Old AgeCao Cao · IdiomsThe old steed in its stall still dreams of a thousand li; the hero in his late years never lets his great heart rest.
  126. The More Troops, the Better for Han XinSima Qian · IdiomsThe emperor asked: how many could I command? Xin said: no more than a hundred thousand. And you? He said: for me, the more the better.
  127. Of Many Talents and Many SkillsSima Qian · IdiomsI, Dan, am clever and able, of many talents and many skills, and fit to serve the spirits.
  128. Treated Between the Ji and the MengSima Qian · IdiomsAnother day Duke Jing detained Confucius and said: 'To honor you as the Ji clan is honored, I cannot.' He treated him at a level between the Ji and the Meng.
  129. The Palace Carriage Goes Out LateSima Qian · IdiomsShould the emperor's carriage one day go out late, Kuai meant to use his troops to wipe out the Qi family and Ruyi, King of Zhao, and all their kin.
  130. Every Household Supplied, Every Person ContentSima Qian · IdiomsAfter ten years of the new laws, the people of Qin were well pleased: no one picked up what others had dropped, the hills had no bandits, and every household had enough.
  131. Wealthy Merchants and Great TradersSima Qian · IdiomsIn this way the wealthy merchants and great traders could make no great profits and would return to the root occupation of farming, and the prices of goods could not leap up.
  132. Sacrifice Atop Mount LangjuxuSima Qian · AphorismsHe sacrificed to Heaven on Mount Langjuxu, to Earth at Guyan, and climbed to gaze over the Hanhai.
  133. Holding Office and Keeping to the LawSima Qian · IdiomsThese two kinds of men may be allowed to hold office and keep the law, but they are not the ones with whom to discuss what lies beyond the law.
  134. Shrewd Shots That Strike the MarkSima Qian · IdiomsShaojun loved magical arts by nature and was good at clever remarks that unexpectedly hit the mark.
  135. Laying Down the Book With a SighSima Qian · IdiomsWhenever I read the book of Mencius and come to King Hui of Liang asking how to profit his state, I never fail to put the book down and sigh.
  136. Strengthen Farming and Spend SparinglySima Qian · IdiomsThe Mohists are frugal and hard to follow, so their teachings cannot be practiced in every respect; yet their strengthening of the root and economizing must not be discarded.
  137. Bearing Insult and Swallowing ShameBan Zhao · IdiomsBe modest and respectful, put others first, claim no credit for good deeds and refuse no blame, bear insult and swallow shame, and always be cautious: this is called humility.
  138. An Old Steed's Heart Set on a Thousand LiCao Cao · IdiomsThe old thoroughbred lies by the trough, its heart still set on a thousand li; a man of spirit in his twilight years never loses his great ambition.
  139. Pleasing the Senses of the MomentSima Qian · IdiomsNow you abandon the banging of jars and pots for the music of Zheng and Wei, and set aside the zither for the Shao and Yu; why so? Because it pleases the moment and suits the eye, nothing more.
  140. Flushing Red With IndignationSima Qian · IdiomsZhai Huang's face changed with anger and he said: 'By all I have seen and heard, in what way do I fall short of Wei Chengzi?'
  141. Floods Embracing Mountains and Mounting the HillsSima Qian · IdiomsIn the time of Emperor Yao, the floodwaters rose to the sky, vast and boundless, embracing the mountains and mounting the hills, and the people below were in distress.
  142. Cooking With Pots Hung Above the FloodSima Qian · AphorismsInside the city they cooked with their pots hung up, and exchanged children to eat.
  143. Gouged Eyes on the Wu City GateSima Qian · IdiomsGouge out my eyes and set them on the east gate of Wu, so that I may watch Yue destroy Wu.
  144. Rejecting Remonstrance and Glossing Over FaultsSima Qian · IdiomsReject advice and gloss over faults, be foolish and expect agreement from below, and the state is sure to meet disaster.
  145. Reining In to Ride Slowly at Xiliu CampSima Qian · IdiomsBy the general's rule, no one may gallop within the camp. So the emperor held his reins and rode slowly.
  146. Fan Kuai Bursts Through the Palace DoorSima Qian · AphorismsAfter more than ten days, Kuai pushed open the door and went straight in, and the ministers followed him.
  147. Holding Names Accountable to RealitySima Qian · IdiomsAs for seeking realities by their names and cross-checking without error, this must not be overlooked.
  148. Clutching Wet Hair and Spitting Out Food to Greet the WorthySima Qian · IdiomsYet I clutch my hair three times in one washing and spit out my food three times in one meal, and still I fear losing the worthy men of the world.
  149. Zhuo Wenjun Tending the Wine CounterSima Qian · AphorismsHe bought a tavern to sell wine, and had Wenjun tend the counter.
  150. Zhuo Wenjun, Newly WidowedSima Qian · IdiomsAt that time Zhuo Wangsun had a daughter, Wenjun, newly widowed and fond of music, so Xiangru made a show of honoring the magistrate and used the feeling of his zither to court her.
  151. A Square Tenon for a Round MortiseSima Qian · IdiomsA round mortise and a square tenon, I always knew they would clash and not fit.
  152. Transforming of Themselves Through Non-ActionSima Qian · IdiomsLi Er held that through non-action the people transform of themselves, and through stillness they become upright of themselves.
  153. Jade from Mount KunlunSima Qian · IdiomsNot one of these treasures is produced in Qin, yet Your Majesty delights in them; why is that?
  154. Exchanging Children for Food in a Besieged CitySima Qian · IdiomsIn the city they hung up their pots to cook and exchanged children to eat.
  155. Executed in Court Robes at the Eastern MarketSima Qian · IdiomsThe emperor ordered Chao Cuo, dressed in his court robes, to be beheaded at the Eastern Market.
  156. Hearing the Way at Dawn, Content to Die at DuskSima Qian · IdiomsTo hear the Way at dawn and die at dusk, who could say that is wrong?
  157. Dying Unknown to the WorldSima Qian · IdiomsTo die unknown to the world was what the ancients counted shameful.
  158. Steeped in Mud Yet Never BlackenedSima Qian · IdiomsPure and white, he could be steeped in black dye yet never be blackened.
  159. A Good Merchant Hides His Goods as if He Had NoneSima Qian · IdiomsI have heard that a good merchant stores his goods deep, as if he had none, and a gentleman of full virtue looks as though he were simple.
  160. Smelting Five-Coloured Stones to Mend the SkyAnonymous · IdiomsThen Nüwa smelted stones of five colours to mend the azure sky and cut off the turtle's legs to set up the four corners.
  161. A Hero's Heart Undimmed in Old AgeCao Cao · AphorismsA man of ambition in his twilight years: his bold heart never ceases.
  162. Deciding a Lawsuit in a Few Words, as Zilu CouldSima Qian · IdiomsIf anyone can settle a lawsuit with half a word, it is surely You.
  163. Teeth Worn Down Like an Old Dog's or Horse'sBan Zhao · AphorismsThough he wishes to exert all his strength to repay the emperor's kindness, he is pressed by the end of his years, his teeth worn out like an old dog's or horse's.
  164. Wooing Zhuo Wenjun with the ZitherSima Qian · IdiomsZhuo Wangsun had a daughter, Wenjun, newly widowed and fond of music, so Xiangru, while feigning respect for the magistrate, stirred her with the heart of his zither.
  165. Serve When Employed, Withdraw When Set AsideSima Qian · IdiomsTo act when employed and to withdraw when set aside: only you and I can do this.
  166. White Bones Bleaching in the Open FieldsCao Cao · IdiomsWhite bones lie exposed in the fields; for a thousand li no cock crows.
  167. A White Fish Leaps into King Wu's BoatSima Qian · IdiomsAs King Wu crossed the river, in midstream a white fish leapt into the king's boat; King Wu bent down, took it up and offered it in sacrifice.
  168. Three Years Without a Glance at the GardenSima Qian · IdiomsFor three years he never looked at his garden, so intent was he on his studies.
  169. Not Touching So Much as an Autumn HairBan Gu · IdiomsSince entering the pass I have not dared to touch so much as an autumn hair; I registered the officials and people and sealed the storehouses to await the general.
  170. Yan Hui's Basket of Rice and Gourd of WaterSima Qian · IdiomsA basket of rice, a gourd of water, living in a mean alley: others could not bear the hardship, but Hui never let it change his joy.
  171. Plain Carriage and White Horse of Surrender and MourningBan Gu · IdiomsZiying, king of Qin, in a plain carriage with white horses and a cord tied about his neck, sealed the emperor's seals and tallies and surrendered beside the Zhi road.
  172. Zilu Ties His Cap Strings and DiesSima Qian · AphorismsZilu said, 'A gentleman does not let his cap fall even in death.' Then he tied his cap strings and died.
  173. Leaving the Net Open on One SideSima Qian · IdiomsTang went out and saw nets spread on all four sides in the wilds, and a man praying: 'From all under heaven and the four quarters, may everything enter my net.'
  174. Removing Three Sides of Tang's NetSima Qian · IdiomsTang said, 'Ah, that would take them all!' and had three sides of the net removed.
  175. Bare-Chested and Bound in SurrenderSima Qian · IdiomsWhen King Wu of Zhou conquered Yin, Weizi came to the army gate with his sacrificial vessels, bared to the waist and bound, and advanced on his knees to make his plea.
  176. Han Xin's Humiliation Between a Butcher Boy's LegsSima Qian · IdiomsIf you can face death, stab me; if not, crawl out between my legs.
  177. An Affliction at the Belly and Heart of the StateSima Qian · IdiomsYue is a disease at your belly and heart, yet instead of dealing with it first you busy yourself with Qi; is that not a mistake?
  178. Qin, a State of Tigers and WolvesSima Qian · AphorismsQin is a state of tigers and wolves, with a heart to swallow the whole world.
  179. The Money-Making Strategies of JiranSima Qian · IdiomsJiran's strategies were seven; Yue used five of them and achieved its aims.
  180. Ivory Chopsticks Lead to Jade CupsSima Qian · IdiomsHaving made ivory chopsticks, he will surely make jade cups; having cups, he will surely long for rare things from far away.
  181. Noble Beyond Words: Liu Bang's Face ReadSima Qian · IdiomsYour wife and children just now all resemble you; your face is noble beyond words.
  182. Zou Yan's Red Prefecture of the Divine LandSima Qian · IdiomsChina is called the Red Prefecture of the Divine Land; within it are nine provinces of its own.
  183. Nothing Picked Up from the Roads of Shang Yang's QinSima Qian · IdiomsAfter ten years the people of Qin were content; no one picked up what was dropped on the road, there were no bandits in the hills, and every household had enough.
  184. King Zhou's Pool of Wine and Forest of MeatSima Qian · IdiomsHe made a pool of wine and hung meat like a forest, had naked men and women chase one another among them, and drank through the long night.
  185. King Zhou's All-Night Drinking FeastsSima Qian · IdiomsHe made a pool of wine and hung meat like a forest, had naked men and women chase one another among them, and drank through the long night.
  186. Poised and Refined Like Sima Xiangru at LinqiongSima Qian · IdiomsWhen Xiangru came to Linqiong with his carriage and riders, he was composed, refined and very handsome.
  187. The Hegemon-King's Farewell to Lady YuXiang Yu · IdiomsMy strength could pull up mountains, my spirit overtopped the world; the times are against me, and Zhui will not run. If Zhui will not run, what can I do? Yu, oh Yu, what will become of you?
  188. The Decadent Music Made for King ZhouSima Qian · IdiomsThen he had Shi Juan compose new licentious sounds, the dances of Beili, and soft, decadent music.
  189. Food Without Taste: The King of Chu's AnxietySima Qian · IdiomsI lie down but cannot rest, I eat but cannot taste my food, and my heart sways like a hanging banner with nowhere to rest.
  190. Never Two Dishes at a Meal: Goujian's FrugalitySima Qian · IdiomsKing Goujian of Yue never has two dishes at a meal or two colours in his clothes; he mourns the dead and asks after the sick, for he means to put his people to use.
  191. High Gates and Great Houses for the Jixia ScholarsSima Qian · IdiomsHe built them residences on the broad avenues, with high gates and great houses, to honour and favour them.
  192. The Swan's Ambition: Chen She in the FieldsSima Qian · IdiomsAlas! How can sparrows and swallows know the ambition of a swan!
  193. The Duke of Zhou Spits Out His Food Three TimesSima Qian · IdiomsYet when I wash my hair I break off three times, and at one meal I spit out my food three times, to rise and receive men of ability, and still I fear losing the worthy men of the realm.
  194. Three Months Without Tasting Meat: Confucius Hears the ShaoSima Qian · IdiomsHe heard the Shao and studied it; for three months he did not know the taste of meat, and the people of Qi praised him.
  195. Vying with Sun and Moon: Sima Qian's Praise of Qu YuanSima Qian · AphorismsConsidering such aims, one may well say they vie with the sun and moon in brightness.
  196. They Are the Knife and Chopping Board, We the Fish and MeatSima Qian · IdiomsRight now they are the knife and chopping board, and we are the fish and meat. Why take leave?
  197. Full Granaries Make People Mindful of ProprietySima Qian · AphorismsWhen granaries are full, people know propriety; when food and clothing suffice, they know honour and shame.
  198. While the Xiongnu Remain, I Will Not Think of a HomeSima Qian · AphorismsThe Xiongnu are not yet destroyed; I have no use for a home.
  199. So Should a True Man LiveSima Qian · AphorismsAh! This is how a true man should be!
  200. Great Deeds Need Not Mind Small ScruplesSima Qian · AphorismsGreat deeds need not mind small scruples, and great courtesy need not bother with small politeness.
  201. The Peacock Flies to the SoutheastAnonymous (Han–Wei folk yuefu) · AphorismsThe peacock flies to the southeast; every five li it turns and lingers.
  202. A Poor Home Longs for a Good Wife, a Troubled State for a Good MinisterSima Qian · AphorismsWhen the family is poor one longs for a good wife; when the state is in disorder one longs for a good minister.
  203. Chasing an Empty Name to Suffer Real DisasterCao Cao · AphorismsTherefore I cannot chase an empty name and suffer real disaster; this I must not do.
  204. To Found a Distinct School of ThoughtSima Qian · AphorismsI wished thereby to probe the boundary between heaven and humanity, to trace the changes of past and present, and to found a school of my own.
  205. Chao Cuo, the Crown Prince's Bag of WisdomSima Qian · AphorismsBecause of his eloquence he won the crown prince's favour, and the prince's household called him the bag of wisdom.
  206. Rivers and Seas Turn Away No Trickling StreamSima Qian · IdiomsRivers and seas do not pick and choose among small streams, and so they achieve their depth.
  207. Laozi Is Like a Dragon Beyond GraspSima Qian · AphorismsToday I have seen Laozi: is he not like a dragon!
  208. Are Kings, Lords, Generals and Ministers a Breed ApartSima Qian · AphorismsA brave man either does not die, or if he dies, dies for a great name. Are kings, lords, generals and ministers a breed apart?
  209. Never Parting Until Our Hair Turns WhiteZhuo Wenjun (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsI wish only for one true-hearted love, and never to part until our hair is white.
  210. Coming to Break Off with You for GoodZhuo Wenjun (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsI hear you are of two minds, so I have come to part from you for good.
  211. Zhou Yafu, a True General at Xiliu CampSima Qian · AphorismsAh, this is a true general!
  212. Probing Heaven and Humanity, Comprehending Change Past and PresentSima Qian · AphorismsI wished also to probe the boundary between heaven and humanity, to comprehend the changes of past and present, and to form a school of my own.
  213. Severing the Veins of the EarthSima Qian · AphorismsFrom Lintao to Liaodong I built walls and moats over ten thousand li; how could they not have cut the veins of the earth somewhere? This is my crime.
  214. Insides Twisting Nine Times a DaySima Qian · AphorismsSo my insides twist nine times a day; at home I am dazed as if I had lost something, and when I go out I do not know where I am going.
  215. Hanging Himself from the Southeast BoughAnonymous (Han–Wei folk yuefu) · AphorismsHe paced to and fro beneath the courtyard tree, then hanged himself from its southeast bough.
  216. Qin, a Tiger-and-Wolf StateSima Qian · AphorismsDo not go, my king; raise troops and guard your own land. Qin is a tiger and wolf that cannot be trusted; it means to swallow all the other states.
  217. Son of the Red Emperor Who Slew the White SnakeSima Qian · AphorismsI weep because my son, the son of the White Emperor, took the form of a snake and lay across the road, and now he has been cut down by the son of the Red Emperor.
  218. Uniform Axle Widths Across Qin's EmpireSima Qian · AphorismsHe unified the laws and the standards of weight and length. Carts were given one axle width. Writing was given one script.
  219. No Common Counsel Between Different PathsSima Qian · IdiomsThose in the world who study Laozi disparage the Confucians, and the Confucians in turn disparage Laozi. Is this what is meant by those whose ways differ not making plans together?
  220. Carving Dragons in ProseSima Qian · AphorismsSo the people of Qi made a rhyme: heaven-talking Yan, dragon-carving Shi, Kun with wit that flows like axle grease.
  221. The Wind Moans and the Yi River Runs ColdSima Qian · AphorismsThe wind moans, the Yi River is cold; the hero goes, and he will never return!
  222. Li Guang, the Flying General of HanSima Qian · AphorismsWhen Li Guang was posted to Youbeiping, the Xiongnu heard of it and called him the flying general of the Han; they kept away for several years and dared not enter Youbeiping.
  223. The Swan Flies a Thousand Li in One FlightLiu Bang · IdiomsThe swan flies high; in one flight it covers a thousand li.
  224. A Plan Without a Single FlawChao Cuo · IdiomsLet the two forces support each other inside and out, each using its own strength, and add the weight of numbers: this is a perfectly safe method.
  225. The Three Rivers and Five Lakes Dredged by YuLiu An (comp.) · IdiomsShun then sent Yu to clear the three rivers and five lakes, open the Yi Gate, guide the Chan and Jian streams, level and connect channels and fields, and lead the waters into the Eastern Sea.
  226. The Three Bonds and Five Constant VirtuesDong Zhongshu (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsThe three bonds of the kingly way can be sought in Heaven.
  227. More Than Can Be ReckonedBan Gu · IdiomsIn the more than a hundred years since the frontier was built, not all of it was earthen wall: some follows mountain rock, some is fallen timber and brushwood, some water gates in valleys, gradually levelled, built and kept by soldiers and convicts, with labour and cost over so long a time that they cannot be reckoned.
  228. Like an Unmoored Boat AdriftJia Yi · AphorismsCalm as the stillness of a deep pool, drifting like a boat with no mooring.
  229. Competing With the People for ProfitHuan Kuan (comp.) · AphorismsNow the commanderies and kingdoms have monopolies on salt, iron and liquor, and equable transport, competing with the people for profit.
  230. Letting the People Rest and RecoverBan Gu · AphorismsWhen the Han arose, it swept away the harsh and complicated laws and let the people rest.
  231. Duty Forbids Looking BackSima Xiangru · IdiomsThey brave bare blades and flying arrows; bound by duty they do not look back, and their thoughts never turn on their heels; every man's heart is full of anger, as if avenging a personal wrong.
  232. Joy at Its Height Turns to SorrowEmperor Wu of Han (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsFlutes and drums sound and the boatmen raise their song; when joy is at its height, sorrow multiplies.
  233. Sturdy Carriages Drawn by Fat HorsesChao Cuo · IdiomsThey roam a thousand li for pleasure, their caps and carriage canopies in sight of one another; they ride sturdy carriages behind fat horses, wear silk shoes and trail white silk.
  234. Given Teeth, Denied HornsBan Gu · IdiomsHeaven too apportions its gifts: to those it gives teeth it takes away horns, and to those it gives wings it gives only two feet. This means that whoever receives the great may not take the small as well.
  235. The Northern Horse Leans Toward the Home WindBan Chao · IdiomsI have heard that when Taigong was enfeoffed in Qi, five generations were buried back in Zhou; a dying fox turns its head toward its hill, and a horse of Dai leans toward the north wind.
  236. The Fair Month of Mid-SpringZhang Heng · AphorismsThen in mid-spring, the fair month, the season is mild and the air is clear.
  237. Arms Are Ill-Omened and War Is PerilousChao Cuo · IdiomsWeapons are instruments of ill omen; battle is a perilous affair.
  238. Carving a Swan That Still Looks Like a DuckMa Yuan · IdiomsIf you copy Bogao and fail, you will still be a careful, disciplined man: this is what is called carving a swan and failing, yet it still looks like a duck.
  239. Promote the Root, Restrain the BranchesBan Gu · IdiomsAll answered that they wished to end the commanderies' salt, iron and liquor monopolies and equable transport, to promote the root and restrain the branches and not compete with the realm for profit; then moral transformation could flourish.
  240. Hiding True Feelings to Win a NameBan Gu · AphorismsSuch was his concealment of his true feelings to win a name.
  241. Ten Suns Rising TogetherLiu An (comp.) · IdiomsIn the time of Yao, ten suns rose together, scorching the crops and killing the plants, and the people had nothing to eat.
  242. Standing Third with Heaven and EarthSima Xiangru · IdiomsSo he ranges over embracing all and accommodating everything, and labours in thought to stand third with Heaven and Earth.
  243. So Close at Hand, Yet Far as the HorizonAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · IdiomsHeaven's majesty is not a foot away from my face.
  244. Food Offered with a Contemptuous CallDai Sheng (comp.) · IdiomsIt is precisely because I would not eat food offered with a contemptuous call that I have come to this!
  245. Gathering the Four Seas into One BagJia Yi · IdiomsHe had the intention to roll up the world like a mat, embrace all within the universe and gather the four seas into one bag, and the ambition to swallow the eight wildernesses.
  246. A Rich Man Never Sits Under the EavesSima Xiangru · IdiomsA man with a thousand in gold does not sit by the edge of the hall.
  247. Doors Unbarred at Night in the Age of Great UnityDai Sheng (comp.) · IdiomsSo outer doors were not closed. This was called the Great Unity.
  248. Heaven and Earth as a Furnace: Jia Yi's Owl RhapsodyJia Yi · AphorismsHeaven and earth are the furnace, creation is the smith; yin and yang are the charcoal, and all things are the copper.
  249. So Slow, So Late: Emperor Wu Waits for Lady Li's SpiritEmperor Wu of Han (Liu Che) · IdiomsIs it she, or is it not? I stand and gaze at her; why does she come so slowly, so late!
  250. Might Across the Land: Liu Bang's Song of the Great WindLiu Bang · AphorismsA great wind rises, the clouds fly up; my might spreads over all within the seas, and I return to my home town.
  251. Sir Fictitious and Master Nobody: Sima Xiangru's Invented DebatersSima Xiangru · IdiomsAfter the hunt, Sir Fictitious went to boast to Master Nobody, and Lord Not-Such was there too.
  252. Filial Sons and Dutiful Grandsons: Emperor Wu's Edict on the AgedBan Gu · IdiomsNow the filial sons and dutiful grandsons of the realm wish to give their all to their elders, but are pressed by public duties and lack means.
  253. Remember Danger in Times of Safety: Hou Ying Defends the FrontierBan Gu · IdiomsThe ancients did not forget danger in times of safety; the defences cannot be abolished again. That is the second reason.
  254. A Gentle Carriage with Rush-Wrapped Wheels for Master ShenBan Gu · IdiomsEnvoys were sent with a comfortable carriage on rush-wrapped wheels, silk and a jade disc, to summon Master Shen of Lu.
  255. So Near Her Room, So Far the Lady: The Phoenix Seeks His MateSima Xiangru (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsThere is a lovely, virtuous lady here; her room is near, she is far, and my heart alone is wrung.
  256. Little Integrity, Less Shame: Sima Xiangru's Proclamation to Ba and ShuSima Xiangru · IdiomsTheir elders did not teach them first, nor did the young follow carefully; they have little integrity and less shame, and their customs are not honest.
  257. Careful and Cautious: Huo Guang's Twenty Years at CourtBan Gu · IdiomsHe went in and out of the forbidden gates for more than twenty years, careful and cautious, never making a mistake, and was greatly trusted.
  258. Lofty Counsel and Broad Vision: Sima Xiangru Answers the Elders of ShuSima Xiangru · IdiomsHe must put forward lofty and far-reaching counsel, found great works and hand them down, setting a pattern for ten thousand generations.
  259. Hoeing with the Classic at Hand: Ni Kuan's DiligenceBan Gu · AphorismsHe often hired himself out as a labourer, hoeing with the classic at hand and reading it whenever he rested; such was his dedication.
  260. At the Hub of the AxleBan Gu · IdiomsChancellor Che stood in the rank of Yi Yin and Lü Shang, at the hub of the axle, yet said nothing and only kept himself safe.
  261. Reciting What Has Been Handed DownSima Xiangru · IdiomsIs he merely to be bound by statutes and custom, reciting what has been handed down and seeking his age's approval?
  262. In Fear and Trembling, as on Thin IceBan Gu · IdiomsIn fear and trembling, as if at the edge of a deep abyss, as if treading on thin ice.
  263. Sleeping on Firewood with Fire BeneathJia Yi · IdiomsTo set fire beneath a pile of firewood and sleep on top, and call it safe because the fire has not yet caught.
  264. Strength to Uproot Mountains, Spirit to Top the WorldXiang Yu · IdiomsMy strength could uproot mountains, my spirit overtopped the world; the times are against me, and Zhui will not run.
  265. Everyone Stays Safely in Place as BeforeBan Gu · IdiomsAll other Qin laws are abolished. Officials and people shall all stay safely in place as before.
  266. This Is a Matter of Great MomentSima Xiangru · IdiomsYet this is a matter of great moment, which is certainly not something onlookers can see.
  267. Mid-Spring Days of Mild Air and Clear SkiesZhang Heng · AphorismsAnd so, in the fine month of mid-spring, the season is mild and the air is clear.
  268. Praising the Ancients to Condemn the PresentBan Gu · IdiomsMoreover, common Confucians do not grasp what the times require; they love to praise the ancient and condemn the present, confusing people about names and realities so that they do not know what to hold to. How can they be entrusted with anything!
  269. Orders Issued at Dawn, Changed by DuskChao Cuo · IdiomsUrgent government demands and harsh levies, taxes gathered at no fixed time, orders issued at dawn and changed by dusk.
  270. A True Gentleman Is Father and Mother to the PeopleEmperor Wen of Han · AphorismsThe Book of Songs says: 'The kindly, gentle ruler is father and mother to the people.'
  271. Deep Grace Overflowing from the Han ThroneSima Xiangru · IdiomsIts martial might abundant, its deep grace overflowing, all living things are drenched and soaked, and it spills beyond our borders.
  272. A Leaking Cup Can Never Be FilledHuan Kuan · IdiomsThe drip from the eaves is enough to fill a pot or jar, yet the great rivers cannot fill a leaking cup.
  273. The Dying Fox Turns Its Head to Its Home HillBan Chao · IdiomsA fox dies facing its hill, and the horses of Dai lean toward the wind.
  274. To Pass the Jade Gate Alive: Ban Chao's PleaBan Chao · AphorismsI dare not hope to reach Jiuquan commandery; I wish only to enter the Jade Gate alive.
  275. A Prison Drawn on the Ground: Sima Qian on a Scholar's HonourBan Gu · IdiomsSo a man of honour will not enter even a prison drawn on the ground, nor answer even a jailer carved of wood; he has made up his mind beforehand.
  276. Drawing a Tiger That Turns Out a Dog: Ma Yuan's AdviceMa Yuan · IdiomsFail to become Jiliang and you will sink into a frivolous wastrel; this is what is meant by drawing a tiger and getting a dog.
  277. Only a Brimming Stream Between: The Herd Boy and the Weaver GirlAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · IdiomsAcross one brimming stream they gaze in longing and cannot speak.
  278. Upright Speech and Bold Remonstrance: Emperor Wu's Call for TalentBan Gu · IdiomsRecommend worthy, upright men who will speak frankly and remonstrate to the utmost.
  279. Courtesy Demands a Return: The Rule of ReciprocityDai Sheng (comp.) · IdiomsRitual values going and coming: to go and receive nothing back is not proper; to receive and give nothing back is not proper either.
  280. The Autumn Fan Laid Aside: Lady Ban's LamentLady Ban (Ban Jieyu) (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsI always fear the coming of autumn, when cool winds steal the heat; then I will be cast into a chest, and love broken off halfway.
  281. Autumn Trees Thick, Their Leaves Turning Yellow: Wang Zhaojun's LamentWang Zhaojun (traditionally attributed) · AphorismsThe autumn trees are thick, their leaves withering yellow.
  282. A Ceremonial Cap Laid Under Shoes: Jia Yi Mourns Qu YuanJia Yi · IdiomsThe ceremonial cap is laid beneath the shoes; this cannot long endure.
  283. Liu Bang's Three-Article Compact with the Elders of QinBan Gu · IdiomsI make a compact with you elders of only three laws: whoever kills shall die; whoever injures or steals shall be punished accordingly.
  284. Luofu Already Has a Husband: Rebuffing the GovernorAnonymous (Han folk yuefu) · IdiomsYou have your own wife, and Luofu has her own husband.
  285. Dismissing the Hundred Schools to Honour ConfucianismBan Gu · IdiomsIn my humble view, all that lies outside the Six Arts and the way of Confucius should be cut off and not allowed to advance alongside them.
  286. Silent Looks Full of Love Across the Milky WayAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · IdiomsBetween them only a clear, brimming stream; gazing silently, they cannot speak.
  287. As If Wading Through Deep Water: Emperor Wu Seeks Worthy MenBan Gu · IdiomsI rise early to seek and lie down at night to ponder, as if wading through deep water, not knowing how to cross.
  288. At a Loss What to Do: Ni Kuan Drafts the MemorialBan Gu · IdiomsThe clerks did not know what to do. Kuan explained its meaning to them, and so they had him write the memorial.
  289. Tousled Hair and a Grimy Face: Feng Gui on Dress and VirtueBan Gu · IdiomsA gentleman straightens his clothes and cap and makes his bearing dignified; why must one have tousled hair and a grimy face before being counted worthy?
  290. Stored Away in a Famous Mountain: Sima Qian's Life WorkBan Gu · IdiomsIf I can truly complete this book, store it in a famous mountain and pass it to the right people.
  291. Moth Brows and Gleaming Teeth: the Neighbour in Sima Xiangru's RhapsodySima Xiangru (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsMy neighbour to the east was a girl with rich, lovely hair like clouds, moth brows and gleaming teeth.
  292. Accidents of Bit and Bridle: Sima Xiangru Remonstrates Against the HuntSima Xiangru · IdiomsEven when the road is cleared and one drives along the middle, accidents of bit and bridle still happen at times.
  293. Facing Death as if It Were Life: Chao Cuo on Frontier SoldiersChao Cuo · IdiomsThus they can make their people brave arrows and stones and go through boiling water and fire, regarding death as if it were life.
  294. Resolved Without Turning on One's Heel: Sima Xiangru's Proclamation to Ba and ShuSima Xiangru · IdiomsDuty forbids them to look back, and once resolved they never turn on their heels; every man is filled with anger as if avenging a private wrong.
  295. Planning Deeply and Looking Far Ahead: Sima Xiangru on Loyal ServiceSima Xiangru · IdiomsThey plan deeply and look far ahead, hasten to meet the nation's crisis, and gladly fulfil the duty of subjects.
  296. Keeping Faith and Cultivating Harmony: Confucius on the Great UnityDai Sheng (comp.) · IdiomsWhen the great Way prevailed, the world was shared by all; the worthy and able were chosen, good faith was valued and harmony cultivated.
  297. Worthy, Good, Square and Upright: the Han Recommendation ExaminationBan Gu · IdiomsAn edict ordered the chancellor, the imperial counsellor, the nobles and senior officials to recommend men worthy, good, square and upright, who would speak frankly and remonstrate boldly.
  298. Lighter Than a Wild Goose's FeatherBan Gu · IdiomsEveryone must die once; some deaths are weightier than Mount Tai and some lighter than a goose feather, because what they are used for differs.
  299. Turning Thoughts Over and ReconsideringSima Xiangru · IdiomsThen he turned his thoughts over and reconsidered, gathered the opinions of the ministers, and inquired into the matter of the Feng and Shan sacrifices.
  300. Promoting Farming and Holding Back TradeHuan Kuan · IdiomsWe ask that the salt, iron and liquor monopolies and balanced transport be abolished, in order to advance the root and hold back the branches and greatly benefit agriculture.
  301. Choosing the Worthy and Employing the AbleDai Sheng (comp.) · IdiomsWhen the great Way prevailed, the world belonged to all; the worthy and the able were chosen, and people kept faith and cultivated harmony.
  302. Thoroughfare Towns and Great CitiesBan Gu · IdiomsIf I can truly complete this book, store it on a famous mountain and hand it to those who understand it, spreading it through the great cities, I will have repaid my disgrace; though I were killed ten thousand times, what regret would I have?
  303. Nature the Smith at Heaven and Earth's FurnaceJia Yi · AphorismsHeaven and earth are the furnace and nature the smith; yin and yang are the charcoal and all things the copper.
  304. Far and Near United as One BodySima Xiangru · IdiomsFar and near will be one body, the central lands and the outer regions will share blessings; would that not be peace?
  305. Fleeing Drowning to a Mountain CornerSima Xiangru (traditionally attributed) · IdiomsIt is like guarding against fire in the middle of water, or avoiding drowning in a mountain corner; they had never seen what might tempt them, so how could that prove they did not love beauty?
  306. Dead in the Wilds and Left UnburiedAnonymous (Han guchui music) · AphorismsWe fought south of the wall and died north of the city; dead in the wilds and unburied, we are food for the crows.
  307. Lasting Order and Enduring PeaceJia Yi · IdiomsEstablish the conditions for lasting peace and achieve the work of enduring order.
  308. Xiang Zhuang Performs a Sword Dance at the FeastBan Gu · IdiomsZhuang went in and offered a toast. When it was done, he said, 'There is nothing in camp for entertainment; allow me to dance with a sword.' He drew his sword and danced.
  309. Fish at Play Among the Lotus LeavesAnonymous (Han lotus pickers) · AphorismsSouth of the river we can pick the lotus; how lush the lotus leaves are! The fish play among the lotus leaves.
  310. Gathering Like Fish Swimming UpstreamSima Xiangru · IdiomsAll four quarters were swayed by the wind of virtue, and the rulers of the two regions gathered like fish swimming upstream; those wishing to receive titles were counted in the hundreds of millions.
  311. Owls Soaring High While Phoenixes HideJia Yi · AphorismsPhoenixes hide and flee, while owls soar on high; the dull and worthless are honoured, and slanderers and flatterers have their way.
  312. Phoenixes Driven into HidingJia Yi · AphorismsAlas, how sad, to meet such an ill-starred time! Phoenixes hide and flee, while owls soar on high.
  313. Setting Down Their Loads to Stroke Their Beards at LuofuAnonymous (Han folk yuefu) · AphorismsPassers-by who see Luofu set down their loads and stroke their beards; young men who see Luofu take off their caps and straighten their headbands.
  314. Fear Not Poverty but Unequal SharesHuan Kuan · AphorismsThose who rule a state or a house do not worry about poverty but about unequal shares, not about small numbers but about unrest.
  315. Graves Heaped Among the PinesAnonymous (Han yuefu folk song) · AphorismsLook far off: that is your home, where among the pines and cypresses the graves lie heaped.
  316. So Long Since We PartedAnonymous (anonymous late Eastern Han literati) · AphorismsWhat is so precious about this thing? I only feel how long it is since we parted.
  317. Do Your Best to Eat WellAnonymous (anonymous late Eastern Han literati) · AphorismsLet me say no more of what is cast aside; just do your best to eat well.
  318. Sent to War at FifteenAnonymous (Han yuefu folk song) · AphorismsAt fifteen I went off to war; at eighty I was able to come home.
  319. A Pair of Calling CranesAnonymous (anonymous late Eastern Han literati) · AphorismsLet us become a pair of calling cranes, beat our wings and rise to fly on high.
  320. The Great Unity of the RealmBan Gu · AphorismsThe great unity honoured in the Spring and Autumn Annals is the constant law of heaven and earth and the common principle of past and present.
  321. Building on the Legacy of Six GenerationsJia Yi · AphorismsWhen it came to the First Emperor, he carried forward the legacy of six generations, cracked his long whip to drive the world before him, swallowed the two Zhou and destroyed the feudal lords.
  322. A Rich Man Does Not Sit Beneath the EavesSima Xiangru · IdiomsSo the common saying goes, a man with a thousand in gold at home does not sit beneath the eaves. The saying is small, but it can illustrate great things.
  323. If You Do Not Strive While YoungAnonymous (Han yuefu folk song) · AphorismsIf you do not strive while young, you will grieve in vain when old.
  324. Fighting South of the City WallAnonymous (Han yuefu cymbal song) · AphorismsWe fought south of the city and died north of the walls; dead in the wilds and unburied, we are food for the crows.
  325. Humbling Himself to Be Respectful and FrugalBan Gu · AphorismsWang Mang alone was isolated and poor, and so he humbled himself and became respectful and frugal.
  326. Pointing at White and Calling It BlackDong Zhongshu · AphorismsThose people form a numerous crowd; they point at what is white and call it black.
  327. Cutting Wood for Weapons, Raising Poles for BannersJia Yi · AphorismsThey cut down trees for weapons and raised poles as banners; the world gathered like clouds and answered like an echo, shouldering grain and following like shadows.
  328. Better to Hurry Home EarlyAnonymous (anonymous late Eastern Han literati) · AphorismsThey say travelling is pleasant, but it is better to go home early.
  329. There Is One I Long ForAnonymous (Han yuefu cymbal song) · AphorismsThere is one I long for, who is far south of the great sea.
  330. Crossing the River to Pick Lotus for One Far AwayAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · AphorismsI wade the river to pick lotus; the orchid marsh is full of fragrant plants. To whom shall I give what I gather? The one I long for is on a distant road.
  331. Parted While Both Still Live: The First of the Nineteen Old PoemsAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · AphorismsOn and on you go, ever on; you and I are parted while both still live.
  332. A Tiger When Used, a Mouse When Not: Dongfang Shuo's ReplyDongfang Shuo · AphorismsUse him and he becomes a tiger; leave him unused and he becomes a mouse.
  333. A Hundred Rivers Run East and Never Return: The Long SongAnonymous (Han yuefu) · AphorismsA hundred rivers flow east to the sea; when will they ever flow west again?
  334. Grieving That Those Who Truly Hear Are Few: The High Tower in the NorthwestAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · AphorismsI do not pity the singer for her pain; I only grieve that those who truly hear her are few.
  335. Idle in Youth, Grieving in Vain in Old AgeAnonymous (Han yuefu) · AphorismsIf you do not strive while young and strong, in old age you will grieve in vain.
  336. The Northern Horse Leans Toward the North WindAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · AphorismsThe northern horse leans toward the north wind; the southern bird nests on the southward bough.
  337. Gazing Across the River of Stars, Unable to SpeakAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · AphorismsJust one clear, brimming river lies between them; they gaze in silence and cannot speak.
  338. On and On, Ever Onward ApartAnonymous (Eastern Han literati) · AphorismsOn and on you go, ever on; you and I are parted while both still live.
  339. Warm Spring Spreads Its Bounty to All ThingsAnonymous (Han yuefu) · AphorismsWarm spring spreads its bounty, and all things shine with life.