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Han Feizi – Chapter 19.5
When law and prohibitions are abandoned and private pleas prevail, ministers sell official posts upward and seek rewards downward. Thus benefits go to private clans and power rests with ministers. Commoners no longer serve the ruler whole‑heartedly but seek connections with the powerful. When people crave high‑level connections, wealth flows upward, and smooth‑talking schemers…
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Han Feizi – Chapter 19.4
When Wei strictly enforced criminal laws and decrees, merit‑earners were rewarded and criminals punished. It grew powerful enough to regulate the realm and intimidate neighboring states. When laws slackened and rewards were granted arbitrarily, its territory shrank day by day.
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Han Feizi – Chapter 19.3
Therefore I state: he who understands statecraft can enrich a small state. With careful and trustworthy rewards‑and‑punishments, he can strengthen a sparse population. When rewards and punishments lack standards, even a large state with numerous troops loses its land and people. Without land and people, even Yao and Shun could not become kings, nor…
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Wò Xīn Cháng Dǎn (卧薪尝胆)
Basic Information Chinese Idiom: 卧薪尝胆Pinyin: wò xīn cháng dǎnLiteral Meaning: Sleep on firewood and taste bitter gallbladder.Figurative Meaning: Endure hardships and humbly endure setbacks to encourage oneself, strive hard to achieve ambitions and avenge humiliation.
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Wén Jī Qǐ Wǔ (闻鸡起舞)
Basic Info Chinese Idiom: 闻鸡起舞Pinyin: wén jī qǐ wǔLiteral meaning: Rise to practice sword-dancing upon hearing roosters crow.Extended meaning: Ambitious people seize every moment to strive hard and temper themselves for lofty goals. Cultural Supplement This idiom comes from a famous inspirational historical story, Zu Ti’s Northern Expedition, in ancient China. It has always…
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Han Feizi – Chapter 19.2
In ancient times, former kings devoted themselves to caring for the people and clarifying laws. When laws are clear, loyal ministers are encouraged; when punishments are enforced without exception, treacherous ministers are restrained. With loyal ministers encouraged and wicked ones restrained, territory expands and rulers gain honor – such was Qin. When ministers form…