Basic Information Chinese Idiom: 丧家之犬Pinyin: sàng jiā zhī quǎnLiteral Meaning: A homeless dog / a dog from a household in mourningFigurative Meaning: A person who has lost their backers, has nowhere to take shelter, and wanders around in a miserable, desperate state.
Han Feizi cites Confucius’ story: Zigong failed to reform fame-chasing Chu minister Zixi. Confucius foresaw his doom, which came true in the Baigong Rebellion, proving upright outer manners cannot hide ruinous inner cravings for reputation.
Zigong asked, “Is there one word that can be practiced for a lifetime?” The Master said, “Perhaps it is ‘shu’ (reciprocity)! Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire.”
The Master asked Zigong, “Ci, do you think I am someone who has acquired much knowledge and simply remembered it all?”Zigong replied, “Yes – aren’t you?”The Master said, “No. I hold to one principle that unifies everything.”
The Master sighed, “No one truly understands me!”Zigong asked, “Why is it that no one understands you?”The Master replied, “I do not blame Heaven, nor do I resent others. I study what is below and thereby penetrate what is above. Perhaps only Heaven truly understands me!”
Zigong was fond of criticizing others. The Master said, “Ci (Zigong), are you already so virtuous? As for me, I have no time for that.”
The Master said, “There are three qualities of the noble person’s Way, none of which I have been able to attain: the benevolent are free from anxiety, the wise are free from perplexity, and the courageous are free from fear.”Zigong replied, “This is precisely a description of yourself, Master!”
Zigong asked about friendship. The Master said, “Give loyal advice and guide gently; if he does not accept it, stop—do not humiliate yourself.”