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Chen Zhongzi [Biographies of Noble Scholars]
Chen Zhongzi shunned his brother’s ill-gotten salary and endured extreme poverty. When Chu’s king offered him premiership, his wife warned of political perils. The couple declined the post and fled to earn a living watering gardens.
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Mr. Qianlou [Biographies of Noble Scholars]
Virtuous Daoist hermit Qianlou declined high official posts and generous grain/gold from rulers of Lu and Qi. He wrote the Daoist work Qianlouzi, upheld lifelong seclusion untouched by power and wealth, and peacefully died of old age.
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Ān Bù Dāng Chē (安步当车)
Basic Information Chinese Idiom: 安步当车Pinyin: ān bù dāng chē Literal Meaning: Take leisurely slow walks as if riding a carriage. Figurative Meaning: Lead a simple, tranquil life without craving luxurious transportation or material comforts; walk unhurriedly and contentedly instead of taking a vehicle. It also embodies a calm, peaceful mindset that finds satisfaction in plain living.…
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Wang Dou [Biographies of Noble Scholars]
Daoist scholar Wang Dou criticized King Xuan of Qi for favoring sycophants over capable talents. He forced the king to greet him respectfully and used a silk analogy to expose misplaced priorities. The king repented, appointed worthy men, and brought Qi prosperity.
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Gongyi Qian [Biographies of Noble Scholars]
Duke Mu of Lu wanted Gongyi Qian as prime minister via Zisi. Zisi declined to lure the scholar with titles, saying sincere respect instead of material bait was required. Gongyi Qian upheld his integrity and refused officialdom all his life.