Basic Information
Chinese Idiom: 愚公移山
Pinyin: yú gōng yí shān
Literal Meaning: The Foolish Old Man removes mountains.
Figurative Meaning: To overcome immense difficulties with unyielding perseverance, diligence and firm belief that human efforts can triumph over natural obstacles.
Cultural Background
This famous fable is a classic in traditional Chinese culture. It advocates persistence, dedication and the spirit of never giving up in the face of hardship. The idiom has long been used to praise those who stick to their goals, work tirelessly generation after generation, and turn seemingly impossible tasks into reality.
Origin & Translation
Recorded in Liezi · Tang Wen.
In ancient times, there lived a ninety-year-old man called the Foolish Old Man of North Mountain. Two great mountains, Taihang and Wangwu, blocked the road outside his home. He resolved to level them. A wise old man mocked his foolishness.
The Foolish Old Man replied: “When I die, my sons will live on. My sons will have grandsons, and grandsons will have their own children and grandchildren. My descendants will multiply endlessly, yet the mountains will not grow taller. Why can we not eventually level them?”
He led his family to dig at the mountains every day. His perseverance moved the Supreme Deity, who then ordered two mighty gods to carry the mountains away.
Usage
A positive idiom. It is widely used to encourage people to keep working hard, face difficulties bravely and hold fast to their aspirations.
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