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Zhǎn Cǎo Chú Gēn (斩草除根)
Basic Information Chinese Idiom: 斩草除根 Pinyin: zhǎn cǎo chú gēn Literal Meaning: Cut weeds and pull out their roots entirely. Figurative Meaning: Eliminate the root of troubles or hostile forces thoroughly to avoid future dangers and hidden troubles. Cultural Background Derived from ancient farming wisdom and state-governing philosophy. Ancient Chinese farmers knew weeds would…
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King Fuchai Spared Goujian: Not Out of Stupidity, But “Workplace Rules”
This article rejects the folk tale that Fuchai spared Goujian out of lust or folly. Bound by Spring-Autumn norms and geopolitics, Fuchai spared him to avoid rebel uprisings and allied retaliation, yet Goujian later conquered Wu after enduring hardships.
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Fàng Hǔ Guī Shān (放虎归山)
Basic Information Chinese Idiom: 放虎归山 Pinyin: fàng hǔ guī shān Literal Meaning: Set a tiger free and send it back to the mountains. Figurative Meaning: Spare a dangerous foe and let them escape, thus leaving hidden troubles and future threats. Cultural Background This is a common cautionary Chinese idiom rooted in ancient military history.…
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Han Feizi – Chapter 23.7
Han Feizi contrasts two official types: sycophants Chong Hou and E Lai pleased King Zhou but ignored Shang’s fall; loyal Bi Gan and Wu Zixu foresaw ruin yet died unjustly. Full wisdom needs both human insight and foresight of state trends.
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Han Feizi – Chapter 23.6
Han Feizi cites sculptor Huan He’s carving rule: carve noses larger and eyes smaller for later trimming. This teaches reserving room for revision to avoid irreversible mistakes in all affairs.