-
Wēi Rú Lěi Luǎn (危如累卵)
•
Basic Information Chinese Idiom: 危如累卵Pinyin: wēi rú lěi luǎnLiteral Meaning: As dangerous as eggs piled one on top of another.Figurative Meaning: A situation is extremely precarious and likely to collapse or fail at any moment. Extended Background & Usage Notes This ancient Chinese idiom uses a vivid visual metaphor. Stacking eggs is extremely unstable…
-
Han Feizi – Chapter 10.11
•
What means a small state lacking etiquette? In ancient times, Prince Chong Er of Jin went into exile and passed through Cao. The Lord of Cao stripped himself to secretly watch Chong Er bathing (for he was said to have fused ribs). Li Fuji (Xi Fuji) and Shu Zhan attended nearby.
-
Han Feizi – Chapter 10.10
•
What means over‑estimating one’s own strength internally? In ancient times, Qin attacked Yiyang of Han, putting Han in great danger. Gongzhong Peng (Gong Zhongpeng, or Gongzhong Chi) said to the Lord of Han: “Allied states cannot be relied on. Why not seek peace with Qin through Zhang Yi? Offer a famous city as tribute…
-
Han Feizi – Chapter 10.9
•
What means committing faults yet refusing loyal ministers’ advice? In ancient times, Duke Huan of Qi convened feudal lords nine times, unified the realm, and became the leader of the Five Hegemons, assisted by Guan Zhong.
-
Han Feizi – Chapter 10.7
•
What means indulging in female entertainers and music? In ancient times, the King of the Rong tribes sent You Yu as an envoy to Qin. Duke Mu of Qin asked him: “I have heard of ways of governance yet never witnessed them directly. May I know why ancient wise rulers gained or lost their…