200 Best Chinese Quotes, Sayings and proverbs about Life, Time, Hope, Love…

Chinese proverbs are concise phrases rooted in folk wisdom, philosophical thought, and historical stories, distilling the essence of Chinese culture. This curated collection, compiled by ZhengHe of cnpedia.com, features 200 classical proverbs and quotes complete with original Chinese characters, English translations, and cultural annotations. It systematically showcases traditional wisdom, such as the dialectical wisdom of “Sai Weng Shi Ma” (A blessing in disguise) and the practical philosophy of “Dripping Water Pierces Stone” (Persistent effort yields success). These millennia-old aphorisms reflect survival principles from agrarian societies while embodying the essence of Daoist and Confucian philosophies. Serving as both linguistic gems and keys to understanding Chinese thought patterns, they are invaluable for cross-cultural communication and Chinese language education.

1. 人生天地之间，若白驹过隙，忽然而已。——庄子

(rén shēng tiān dì zhī jiān, ruò bái jū guò xì, hū rán ér yǐ — Zhuāngzǐ)

• Translation: “Human life between heaven and earth is as fleeting as a white steed galloping past a crevice, gone in an instant.”
• Explanation: From Zhuangzi’s “Knowledge Wandered North” (《知北游》), this metaphor illustrates Daoist views on life’s transience. The “white steed” symbolizes the rapid passage of time, urging detachment from worldly obsessions. It teaches that embracing impermanence fosters harmony with nature’s cycles, freeing humans from futile struggles against inevitable change.

2. 知足不辱，知止不殆。——老子

(zhī zú bù rǔ, zhī zhǐ bù dài — Lǎozǐ)

• Translation: “He who knows contentment avoids disgrace; he who knows limits avoids danger.”
• Explanation: A core tenet in Tao Te Ching, this saying advocates moderation as a path to wisdom. By rejecting greed and recognizing personal boundaries, one aligns with the Dao’s natural balance. It warns that excess disrupts inner peace, while restraint preserves dignity and prevents self-destructive ambitions.

3. 君子食无求饱，居无求安。——《论语》

(jūn zǐ shí wú qiú bǎo, jū wú qiú ān — Lúnyǔ)

• Translation: “A noble person does not seek fullness in eating nor comfort in dwelling.”
• Explanation: Confucius prioritizes moral refinement over materialism here. A “junzi” (noble person) cultivates virtue rather than indulging in physical pleasures. This ideal challenges modern consumerism, suggesting true fulfillment lies in ethical growth, not luxury.

4. 祸兮福所倚，福兮祸所伏。——老子

(huò xī fú suǒ yǐ, fú xī huò suǒ fú — Lǎozǐ)

• Translation: “Disaster is where fortune leans; fortune is where disaster lurks.”
• Explanation: This paradox from Tao Te Ching reflects the Daoist concept of duality. Joy and sorrow are interconnected, each containing seeds of the other. It advises equanimity: neither despair in hardship nor cling to success, as all states are transient.

5. 穷则独善其身，达则兼济天下。——孟子

(qióng zé dú shàn qí shēn, dá zé jiān jì tiān xià — Mèngzǐ)

• Translation: “In poverty, cultivate oneself; in prosperity, benefit the world.”
• Explanation: Mencius outlines a Confucian social contract. Individuals must self-improve regardless of circumstances, but also bear responsibility to uplift others when able. This philosophy bridges personal ethics and collective welfare, urging contribution to societal harmony.

6. 富贵不能淫，贫贱不能移，威武不能屈。——孟子

(fù guì bù néng yín, pín jiàn bù néng yí, wēi wǔ bù néng qū — Mèngzǐ)

• Translation: “Wealth cannot corrupt, poverty cannot shake, power cannot subdue.”
• Explanation: Mencius defines moral integrity here. True virtue remains unaltered by external conditions—whether temptation, hardship, or coercion. This ideal inspires resilience against materialism and authoritarianism, valuing principles over convenience.

7. 不义而富且贵，于我如浮云。——孔子

(bú yì ér fù qiě guì, yú wǒ rú fú yún — Kǒngzǐ)

• Translation: “Wealth and status gained through injustice are to me as fleeting clouds.”
• Explanation: Confucius condemns unethical success in Analects. He compares ill-gotten gains to transient clouds, emphasizing that lasting honor stems from righteousness, not material accumulation. This challenges modern “ends justify means” mentalities.

8. 吾生也有涯，而知也无涯。——庄子

(wú shēng yě yǒu yá, ér zhī yě wú yá — Zhuāngzǐ)

• Translation: “Life has limits, but knowledge is boundless.”
• Explanation: Zhuangzi warns against obsessive pursuit of knowledge in Zhuangzi. While learning is noble, overreach leads to exhaustion. He advocates balancing curiosity with acceptance of human limitations, aligning with Daoist “wuwei” (effortless action).

9. 上善若水，水善利万物而不争。——老子

(shàng shàn ruò shuǐ, shuǐ shàn lì wàn wù ér bù zhēng — Lǎozǐ)

• Translation: “The highest goodness is like water, nurturing all without contention.”
• Explanation: In Tao Te Ching, water embodies Daoist virtue—gentle yet transformative. It flows around obstacles, sustains life humbly, and seeks the lowest place. This teaches leaders to serve quietly, prioritizing collective good over personal glory.

10. 非淡泊无以明志，非宁静无以致远。——诸葛亮

(fēi dàn bó wú yǐ míng zhì, fēi níng jìng wú yǐ zhì yuǎn — Zhūgě Liàng)

• Translation: “Without detachment, no clarity of purpose; without tranquility, no reaching far.”
• Explanation: From Zhuge Liang’s letter to his son, this stresses mental discipline. Detachment from distractions sharpens focus, while inner calm enables strategic foresight. It’s a blueprint for achieving long-term goals through self-mastery.

11. 采菊东篱下，悠然见南山。——陶渊明

(cǎi jú dōng lí xià, yōu rán jiàn nán shān — Táo Yuānmíng)

• Translation: “Picking chrysanthemums by the eastern fence, I serenely gaze at the southern mountains.”
• Explanation: From Tao Yuanming’s poem “Drinking Wine” (《饮酒》), this line epitomizes the poet’s retreat from official life to embrace nature. It reflects Daoist ideals of simplicity and harmony, advocating a life free from worldly strife. The imagery invites modern readers to find peace in mindful observation and detachment from societal pressures.

12. 人生如逆旅，我亦是行人。——苏轼

(rén shēng rú nì lǚ, wǒ yì shì xíng rén — Sū Shì)

• Translation: “Life is like a journey against the current; I too am but a traveler.”
• Explanation: From Su Shi’s “Linjiang Immortal” (《临江仙》), this metaphor highlights life’s transient and challenging nature. It conveys a Zen-inspired acceptance of impermanence, urging humility and resilience. The phrase resonates with those navigating adversity, reminding them that struggle is universal yet temporary.

13. 行到水穷处，坐看云起时。——王维

(xíng dào shuǐ qióng chù, zuò kàn yún qǐ shí — Wáng Wéi)

• Translation: “Walk until the stream ends; sit and watch the clouds rise.”
• Explanation: Wang Wei, a Tang Dynasty poet-painter, blends Daoist spontaneity and Buddhist serenity here. The verse teaches surrender to life’s natural flow: when paths seem blocked, pause and find beauty in stillness. It’s a meditation on adaptability and finding opportunity in apparent dead-ends.

14. 天生我材必有用。——李白

(tiān shēng wǒ cái bì yǒu yòng — Lǐ Bái)

• Translation: “Heaven endowed me with talent; it must be put to use.”
• Explanation: From Li Bai’s defiantly optimistic “Bring in the Wine” (《将进酒》), this line champions self-worth against societal neglect. It encourages embracing one’s unique gifts, even if unrecognized. Modern interpretations use it to combat self-doubt, asserting that every individual has inherent value and purpose.

15. 莫听穿林打叶声，何妨吟啸且徐行。——苏轼

(mò tīng chuān lín dǎ yè shēng, hé fáng yín xiào qiě xú xíng — Sū Shì)

• Translation: “Ignore the sound of rain piercing the forest; why not sing and stroll slowly?”
• Explanation: From Su Shi’s “Calming the Waves” (《定风波》), this embodies Stoic resilience. Facing political exile, the poet transforms hardship into poetic defiance. It teaches finding joy amid storms, symbolizing mental freedom that external chaos cannot extinguish.

16. 一箪食，一瓢饮，在陋巷，人不堪其忧，回也不改其乐。——《论语》

(yī dān shí, yī piáo yǐn, zài lòu xiàng, rén bù kān qí yōu, Huí yě bù gǎi qí lè — Lúnyǔ)

• Translation: “A single bowl of rice, a gourd of water, in a shabby alley—others would despair, but Yan Hui remains joyful.”
• Explanation: Confucius praises his disciple Yan Hui’s contentment in poverty (Analects). It redefines happiness as inner virtue, not material wealth. This ideal challenges consumerist cultures, advocating spiritual richness over accumulation.

17. 世事一场大梦，人生几度秋凉。——苏轼

(shì shì yī chǎng dà mèng, rén shēng jǐ dù qiū liáng — Sū Shì)

• Translation: “Worldly affairs are but a grand dream; how many autumn chills does life endure?”
• Explanation: From Su Shi’s “Mid-Autumn Moon” (《西江月》), this Buddhist-influenced verse questions life’s fleeting illusions. The “autumn chills” symbolize inevitable hardships, urging detachment from transient glories. It invites reflection on mortality and the pursuit of lasting meaning.

18. 不以物喜，不以己悲。——范仲淹

(bù yǐ wù xǐ, bù yǐ jǐ bēi — Fàn Zhòngyān)

• Translation: “Do not rejoice over objects, nor grieve over personal losses.”
• Explanation: From Fan Zhongyan’s “Yueyang Tower” (《岳阳楼记》), this Neo-Confucian ideal advocates emotional equilibrium. By transcending ego and materialism, one attains moral clarity. It’s a call to prioritize collective welfare over individual得失, relevant to leadership ethics today.

19. 山重水复疑无路，柳暗花明又一村。——陆游

(shān chóng shuǐ fù yí wú lù, liǔ àn huā míng yòu yī cūn — Lù Yóu)

• Translation: “Mountains fold, rivers twist—no path in sight; willows shade, flowers glow—another village appears.”
• Explanation: Lu You’s “Visiting Shanxi Village” (《游山西村》) uses landscape to symbolize hope. It captures the Daoist belief that crisis harbors renewal. Often quoted during adversity, it reminds us perseverance reveals hidden opportunities.

20. 欲速则不达，见小利则大事不成。——《论语》

(yù sù zé bù dá, jiàn xiǎo lì zé dà shì bù chéng — Lúnyǔ)

• Translation: “Haste prevents success; small gains hinder great achievements.”
• Explanation: Confucius warns against shortsightedness in Analects. Rushing leads to errors, while greed for minor profits distracts from long-term goals. This wisdom applies to modern decision-making, emphasizing patience and strategic vision over instant gratification.

21. 人生不如意事十之八九。

(rén shēng bù rú yì shì shí zhī bā jiǔ)

• Translation: “Ninety percent of life’s events bring dissatisfaction.”
• Explanation: This proverb reflects the universal truth that adversity outweighs ease in human experience. Rooted in Buddhist and Daoist thought, it encourages resilience by normalizing setbacks. Modern psychology echoes this, advising acceptance of imperfection as a step toward emotional well-being and problem-solving.

22. 三十年河东，三十年河西。

(sān shí nián hé dōng, sān shí nián hé xī)

• Translation: “Thirty years east of the river; thirty years west of the river.”
• Explanation: A metaphor for life’s cyclical nature, this saying源自黄河改道的历史现象。It teaches that fortunes rise and fall unpredictably, urging humility in success and hope in hardship. Today, it’s used to critique complacency and inspire adaptability in volatile environments.

23. 留得青山在，不怕没柴烧。

(liú dé qīng shān zài, bú pà méi chái shāo)

• Translation: “Keep the green mountains intact, and fear no lack of firewood.”
• Explanation: This agrarian wisdom prioritizes sustainability over short-term gain. Metaphorically, it advises preserving one’s health, relationships, or resources as foundations for future recovery. Often cited in crises, it aligns with modern concepts like resilience and long-term strategic thinking.

24. 人往高处走，水往低处流。

(rén wǎng gāo chù zǒu, shuǐ wǎng dī chù liú)

• Translation: “People strive upward; water flows downward.”
• Explanation: Contrasting human ambition with natural law, this proverb acknowledges innate aspirations for improvement. While encouraging progress, it also warns against ignoring natural limitations. In debates about social mobility, it’s used to justify both ambition and acceptance of inherent inequalities.

25. 吃得苦中苦，方为人上人。

(chī dé kǔ zhōng kǔ, fāng wéi rén shàng rén)

• Translation: “Endure the bitterest hardships to rise above others.”
• Explanation: Rooted in Confucian meritocracy, this saying glorifies perseverance as a path to success. While motivating self-discipline, modern critiques highlight its potential to rationalize excessive sacrifice or systemic inequality. It remains popular in educational and entrepreneurial contexts.

26. 忍一时风平浪静，退一步海阔天空。

(rěn yī shí fēng píng làng jìng, tuì yī bù hǎi kuò tiān kōng)

• Translation: “Endure a moment for calm seas; retreat a step for vast horizons.”
• Explanation: Blending Daoist non-contention and Buddhist patience, this proverb advocates tactical compromise. It’s often invoked in conflicts to de-escalate tensions, promoting the idea that yielding can create space for mutual benefit—a principle applicable to diplomacy and interpersonal relationships.

27. 家和万事兴。

(jiā hé wàn shì xīng)

• Translation: “Harmony at home leads to prosperity in all endeavors.”
• Explanation: Reflecting Confucian familial ethics, this saying positions domestic stability as the bedrock of societal success. It underscores interdependence between personal relationships and external achievements, resonating with modern work-life balance discussions and organizational culture studies.

28. 远亲不如近邻。

(yuǎn qīn bù rú jìn lín)

• Translation: “A distant relative is less helpful than a close neighbor.”
• Explanation: This practical wisdom highlights the value of community over blood ties in daily life. Historically vital in agrarian societies, it remains relevant in urban contexts, advocating investment in local networks. It also subtly critiques over-reliance on familial obligations.

29. 树挪死，人挪活。

(shù nuó sǐ, rén nuó huó)

• Translation: “Uprooted trees die; relocated people thrive.”
• Explanation: A survival metaphor encouraging adaptability. While trees depend on stable roots, humans are urged to embrace change—migration, career shifts, or ideological flexibility. It challenges stagnation, aligning with modern concepts like lifelong learning and globalization.

30. 人无千日好，花无百日红。

(rén wú qiān rì hǎo, huā wú bǎi rì hóng)

• Translation: “No person thrives for a thousand days; no flower blooms for a hundred.”
• Explanation: This poetic fatalism from Ming literature (《醒世恒言》) mirrors the ephemerality of beauty and success. While acknowledging life’s transient joys, it subtly urges appreciation of the present—a theme echoed in mindfulness practices and anti-perfectionism movements.

31. 大智若愚，大巧若拙。——《老子》

(dà zhì ruò yú, dà qiǎo ruò zhuō — Lǎozǐ)

• Translation: “Great wisdom appears foolish; great skill seems clumsy.”
• Explanation: From Tao Te Ching, this paradox reflects Daoist humility. True mastery avoids ostentation, blending seamlessly with simplicity. It critiques societal obsession with superficial brilliance, advocating quiet competence over showmanship. Modern leaders apply this to foster trust through understated guidance rather than authoritarian control.

32. 水至清则无鱼，人至察则无徒。——《汉书》

(shuǐ zhì qīng zé wú yú, rén zhì chá zé wú tú — Hànshū)

• Translation: “Water too clear breeds no fish; people too scrutinizing gain no followers.”
• Explanation: This Han Dynasty proverb warns against perfectionism. Excessive rigidity in judgment alienates others, just as sterile environments stifle life. It encourages tolerance for human flaws, balancing integrity with flexibility—a lesson for modern management and interpersonal relationships.

33. 世事洞明皆学问，人情练达即文章。——曹雪芹《红楼梦》

(shì shì dòng míng jiē xué wèn, rén qíng liàn dá jí wén zhāng — Cáo Xuěqín)

• Translation: “Understanding worldly affairs is scholarship; mastering human relations is literature.”
• Explanation: From Dream of the Red Chamber, this celebrates practical wisdom as equal to academic knowledge. It highlights the complexity of social dynamics, urging holistic education that blends intellect and emotional intelligence—a timeless guide for navigating both personal and professional realms.

34. 难得糊涂。——郑板桥

(nán dé hú tú — Zhèng Bǎnqiáo)

• Translation: “Rare is the blessing of muddled clarity.”
• Explanation: Zheng Banqiao’s Qing Dynasty calligraphy motto extols strategic ambiguity. By feigning ignorance, one avoids unnecessary conflicts and preserves inner peace. This Daoist-inspired philosophy is embraced in diplomacy and daily life to navigate sensitive situations with tactful restraint.

35. 害人之心不可有，防人之心不可无。——《增广贤文》

(hài rén zhī xīn bù kě yǒu, fáng rén zhī xīn bù kě wú — Zēngguǎng Xiánwén)

• Translation: “Harbor no intent to harm others, but never drop your guard against harm.”
• Explanation: This Ming Dynasty adage balances moral purity with pragmatic caution. While advocating kindness, it acknowledges human complexity. It’s a survival guide for ethical yet realistic living, resonating in contexts from cybersecurity to interpersonal trust.

36. 静坐常思己过，闲谈莫论人非。——《格言联璧》

(jìng zuò cháng sī jǐ guò, xián tán mò lùn rén fēi — Géyán Liánbì)

• Translation: “In solitude, reflect on your faults; in conversation, avoid others’ flaws.”
• Explanation: From Qing scholar Jin Lan’s “Gems of Aphorisms”, this Confucian-Buddhist blend promotes self-accountability and compassion. It counters gossip culture by redirecting focus inward—a practice aligned with mindfulness and ethical communication in digital-age discourse.

37. 吃亏是福。——郑板桥

(chī kuī shì fú — Zhèng Bǎnqiáo)

• Translation: “Losses are blessings in disguise.”
• Explanation: Zheng Banqiao’s Daoist-inspired calligraphy advocates non-attachment to short-term gains. Voluntary sacrifice—whether in negotiations or relationships—builds long-term trust and resilience. Modern interpretations frame this as strategic generosity, where temporary “losses” yield unforeseen opportunities.

38. 己所不欲，勿施于人。——《论语》

(jǐ suǒ bù yù, wù shī yú rén — Lúnyǔ)

• Translation: “Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire.”
• Explanation: Confucius’s Golden Rule in Analects universalizes empathy. By mirroring one’s feelings onto others, it fosters ethical reciprocity. This principle underpins human rights discourse and cross-cultural ethics, urging respect for diverse perspectives through shared humanity.

39. 君子和而不同，小人同而不和。——孔子

(jūn zǐ hé ér bù tóng, xiǎo rén tóng ér bù hé — Kǒngzǐ)

• Translation: “Noble minds harmonize without conforming; petty minds conform without harmony.”
• Explanation: Confucius distinguishes true unity from superficial agreement. A “junzi” (noble person) values diversity while maintaining mutual respect, whereas “xiaoren” (petty people) seek uniformity through coercion. This ideal informs modern pluralism and inclusive leadership models.

40. 小不忍则乱大谋。——《论语》

(xiǎo bù rěn zé luàn dà móu — Lúnyǔ)

• Translation: “Failure to endure small irritations ruins grand plans.”
• Explanation: Confucius stresses emotional discipline in Analects. Impulsive reactions to minor setbacks jeopardize long-term objectives. This aligns with Stoic philosophy and modern strategic thinking, where patience and calculated restraint are keys to achieving complex goals.

41. 人生自古谁无死，留取丹心照汗青。——文天祥

(rén shēng zì gǔ shuí wú sǐ, liú qǔ dān xīn zhào hàn qīng — Wén Tiānxiáng)

• Translation: “Since ancient times, all men must die; let my loyal heart illuminate history.”
• Explanation: From Wen Tianxiang’s “Crossing the Lingding Ocean” (《过零丁洋》), this defiant verse was written before his execution by Mongol invaders. It immortalizes unyielding loyalty to one’s principles, even in death. Modern contexts cite it to inspire courage in defending justice or national identity against oppression.

42. 人生得意须尽欢，莫使金樽空对月。——李白

(rén shēng dé yì xū jìn huān, mò shǐ jīn zūn kōng duì yuè — Lǐ Bái)

• Translation: “When life offers joy, drink it fully; never let golden cups stand empty under the moon.”
• Explanation: Li Bai’s “Bring in the Wine” (《将进酒》) romanticizes carpe diem philosophy. While celebrating hedonism, it also hints at existential angst—joy is fleeting, like moonlight. Today, it’s quoted to balance ambition with savoring present moments, cautioning against endless striving.

43. 不如意事常八九，可与语人无二三。——方岳

(bù rú yì shì cháng bā jiǔ, kě yǔ yǔ rén wú èr sān — Fāng Yuè)

• Translation: “Eight or nine of ten things go awry; barely two or three can be shared.”
• Explanation: Fang Yue’s Southern Song poem captures solitude in adversity. It acknowledges both life’s inherent struggles and the isolation of suffering—a precursor to modern mental health discussions. The line urges compassion, as others’ silent battles often mirror our own.

44. 宠辱不惊，闲看庭前花开花落；去留无意，漫随天外云卷云舒。——《菜根谭》

(chǒng rǔ bù jīng, xián kàn tíng qián huā kāi huā luò; qù liú wú yì, màn suí tiān wài yún juǎn yún shū — Càigēn Tán)

• Translation: “Unmoved by fame or shame, watch flowers bloom and fall; indifferent to staying or leaving, follow clouds rolling afar.”
• Explanation: From Hong Zicheng’s Ming Dynasty “Vegetable Roots Discourse”, this blends Daoist detachment with Zen mindfulness. It teaches equanimity amid life’s fluctuations, advocating inner stability over external validation—a mantra for modern stress management and emotional resilience.

45. 有缘即住无缘去，一任清风送白云。——禅宗语录

(yǒu yuán jí zhù wú yuán qù, yī rèn qīng fēng sòng bái yún — Chánzōng Yǔlù)

• Translation: “Stay if karma binds; depart if it fades—let the breeze carry white clouds as it wills.”
• Explanation: This Chan (Zen) Buddhist saying embraces impermanence in relationships and endeavors. It rejects forced attachments, trusting natural cycles to guide life’s flow. Modern applications include accepting career changes or relationship endings with grace rather than resistance.

46. 事能知足心常惬，人到无求品自高。——陈伯崖

(shì néng zhī zú xīn cháng qiè, rén dào wú qiú pǐn zì gāo — Chén Bóyá)

• Translation: “Contentment brings constant peace; desirelessness elevates character.”
• Explanation: Chen Boya’s Qing Dynasty maxim simplifies Daoist and Confucian ideals. By minimizing cravings, one achieves moral clarity and emotional equilibrium. It critiques consumerist cultures, proposing that true “wealth” lies in spiritual freedom rather than material accumulation.

47. 欲速则不达，见小利则大事不成。——《论语》

(yù sù zé bù dá, jiàn xiǎo lì zé dà shì bù chéng — Lúnyǔ)

• Translation: “Haste prevents success; small gains hinder great achievements.”
• Explanation: Confucius warns against myopic pursuits in Analects. Rushing leads to errors, while greed for minor profits distracts from long-term visions. This wisdom underpins modern strategic planning, advocating patience and prioritization in both personal and professional realms.

48. 人生贵得适意尔，何能羁宦数千里以要名爵？——张翰

(rén shēng guì dé shì yì ěr, hé néng jī huàn shù qiān lǐ yǐ yào míng jué? — Zhāng Hàn)

• Translation: “Life’s value lies in freedom; why chain oneself to officialdom for titles?”
• Explanation: Zhang Han’s Jin Dynasty resignation from office inspired this rebellion against Confucian careerism. It champions individual autonomy over societal expectations—a precursor to modern discussions about work-life balance and authentic living.

49. 但行好事，莫问前程。——《增广贤文》

(dàn xíng hǎo shì, mò wèn qián chéng — Zēngguǎng Xiánwén)

• Translation: “Do good deeds; never ask about their future rewards.”
• Explanation: This Ming Dynasty adage from “Expanded Virtues” promotes altruism without attachment to outcomes. Rooted in Buddhist karma and Daoist spontaneity, it encourages ethical action as an end in itself—a counter to transactional mindsets in philanthropy or leadership.

50. 春有百花秋有月，夏有凉风冬有雪。若无闲事挂心头，便是人间好时节。——无门慧开

(chūn yǒu bǎi huā qiū yǒu yuè, xià yǒu liáng fēng dōng yǒu xuě. Ruò wú xián shì guà xīn tóu, biàn shì rén jiān hǎo shí jié — Wúmén Huìkāi)

• Translation: “Spring flowers, autumn moons, summer breezes, winter snows—if no trivial worries burden your heart, every season is bliss.”
• Explanation: Zen master Wumen Huikai’s poem in “Gateless Gate” (《无门关》) reframes happiness as mental liberation. By releasing petty concerns, one discovers joy in nature’s rhythms. This aligns with mindfulness practices that combat modern anxiety through present-moment awareness.

51. 一粥一饭，当思来处不易；半丝半缕，恒念物力维艰。——朱柏庐《治家格言》

(yī zhōu yī fàn, dāng sī lái chù bù yì; bàn sī bàn lǚ, héng niàn wù lì wéi jiān — Zhū Bǎilú)

• Translation: “Cherish each grain of rice and thread of cloth, for their creation demands labor.”
• Explanation: From Zhu Bailu’s “Family Maxims” (《治家格言》), this Qing Dynasty text emphasizes gratitude and frugality. It reminds us to respect the effort behind resources, countering wastefulness. In modern sustainability movements, it’s invoked to advocate mindful consumption and environmental stewardship.

52. 儿孙自有儿孙福，莫为儿孙作马牛。——民间谚语

(ér sūn zì yǒu ér sūn fú, mò wèi ér sūn zuò mǎ niú — Mínjiān Yànyǔ)

• Translation: “Children have their own fortunes; don’t slave like oxen for them.”
• Explanation: This proverb critiques overparenting, urging trust in younger generations’ autonomy. Rooted in Daoist non-interference, it warns against sacrificing personal well-being for descendants. Modern interpretations use it to discuss healthy boundaries and intergenerational independence.

53. 家和贫也足，不义富多扰。——申居郧《西岩赘语》

(jiā hé pín yě zú, bú yì fù duō rǎo — Shēn Jūyún)

• Translation: “A harmonious home feels rich even in poverty; ill-gotten wealth brings endless trouble.”
• Explanation: Shen Juyun’s Qing Dynasty essay contrasts familial harmony with material corruption. It asserts that ethical poverty trumps immoral riches—a lesson for societies grappling with inequality and ethical compromises in pursuit of wealth.

54. 清官难断家务事。——《红楼梦》

(qīng guān nán duàn jiā wù shì — Hónglóu Mèng)

• Translation: “Even honest officials struggle to judge family disputes.”
• Explanation: From Dream of the Red Chamber, this reflects the complexity of domestic conflicts. It acknowledges that familial emotions defy rigid legal logic, advocating empathy over cold rationality—a principle relevant to modern mediation and counseling practices.

55. 当家才知柴米贵，养儿方知父母恩。

(dāng jiā cái zhī chái mǐ guì, yǎng ér fāng zhī fù mǔ ēn)

• Translation: “Managing a household teaches the cost of firewood and rice; raising children reveals parental love.”
• Explanation: This proverb underscores experiential learning. Responsibility breeds appreciation for unseen efforts, whether in household management or parenthood. It’s cited to encourage humility and gratitude toward caregivers and everyday labor.

56. 妻贤夫祸少，子孝父心宽。

(qī xián fū huò shǎo, zǐ xiào fù xīn kuān)

• Translation: “A virtuous wife spares her husband trouble; a filial son eases his father’s heart.”
• Explanation: Rooted in Confucian family ethics, this saying links domestic harmony to collective well-being. It highlights mutual responsibility in relationships, resonating with modern discussions on partnership dynamics and intergenerational support systems.

57. 兄弟同心，其利断金。

(xiōng dì tóng xīn, qí lì duàn jīn)

• Translation: “Brothers united can slice through metal.”
• Explanation: From the I Ching (《易经》), this metaphor celebrates familial unity as an unstoppable force. While literal siblings are referenced, it extends to any collaborative effort. Modern teams invoke it to stress trust and shared purpose in overcoming challenges.

58. 贫贱夫妻百事哀。——元稹

(pín jiàn fū qī bǎi shì āi — Yuán Zhěn)

• Translation: “In poverty, a couple faces sorrows in all things.”
• Explanation: Yuan Zhen’s Tang Dynasty poem “Lament” (《遣悲怀》) portrays material hardship’s toll on love. While criticized for romanticizing struggle, it sparks debates on how economic stability impacts relationships—a theme explored in sociology and marriage counseling.

59. 父母在，不远游，游必有方。——《论语》

(fù mǔ zài, bù yuǎn yóu, yóu bì yǒu fāng — Lúnyǔ)

• Translation: “While parents live, do not wander far; if you must, have a clear purpose.”
• Explanation: Confucius’s Analects prioritizes filial duty. It balances respect for elders with personal growth, urging responsible independence. Modern reinterpretations apply this to career choices, advocating consideration of family needs without sacrificing individual aspirations.

60. 树欲静而风不止，子欲养而亲不待。——《韩诗外传》

(shù yù jìng ér fēng bù zhǐ, zǐ yù yǎng ér qīn bù dài — Hánshī Wàizhuàn)

• Translation: “The tree longs for calm, but the wind won’t cease; the child wishes to care, but parents won’t wait.”
• Explanation: From Han’s Exoteric Commentary on the Book of Songs (《韩诗外传》), this laments life’s uncontrollable timing. It urges timely expressions of love, echoing modern calls to prioritize family bonds amid busy lives—a universal reminder against procrastination in relationships.

如需继续，请指定下一批编号（如61-70）或告知其他需

以下是第61至70条名言的格式转换，英文解释部分扩展至约50词：

61. 人法地，地法天，天法道，道法自然。——老子

(rén fǎ dì, dì fǎ tiān, tiān fǎ dào, dào fǎ zì rán — Lǎozǐ)

• Translation: “Humans follow earth, earth follows heaven, heaven follows the Dao, the Dao follows nature.”
• Explanation: From Tao Te Ching, this hierarchical principle outlines Daoist cosmology. It asserts that human laws must align with natural order, not vice versa. Modern environmental movements echo this, advocating sustainable coexistence rather than exploitation of ecosystems. The phrase critiques anthropocentrism, urging humility in technological and societal development.

62. 天地有大美而不言。——庄子

(tiān dì yǒu dà měi ér bù yán — Zhuāngzǐ)

• Translation: “Heaven and earth possess great beauty yet speak no words.”
• Explanation: Zhuangzi’s “Knowledge Wandered North” (《知北游》) celebrates nature’s silent grandeur. True beauty and wisdom transcend language, observed through intuitive harmony with the cosmos. This inspires minimalist aesthetics and ecological mindfulness, challenging human arrogance in claiming dominion over nature.

63. 万物静观皆自得，四时佳兴与人同。——程颢

(wàn wù jìng guān jiē zì dé, sì shí jiā xīng yǔ rén tóng — Chéng Hào)

• Translation: “Observe all things in stillness to find their essence; the joys of seasons resonate with humanity.”
• Explanation: Cheng Hao, a Song Dynasty Neo-Confucianist, merges Daoist contemplation with Confucian humanism. By meditating on nature’s rhythms, one discovers universal truths shared by all life. This bridges scientific inquiry and spiritual reflection, advocating holistic understanding of existence.

64. 青山依旧在，几度夕阳红。——杨慎《临江仙》

(qīng shān yī jiù zài, jǐ dù xī yáng hóng — Yáng Shèn)

• Translation: “Green mountains remain eternal; how many crimson sunsets have they witnessed?”
• Explanation: From Yang Shen’s “Immortal by the River” (《临江仙》), this Ming Dynasty verse contrasts nature’s permanence with human transience. It evokes historical perspective—great empires rise and fall, but landscapes endure. Modern readers use it to reflect on legacy and the fleeting nature of power.

65. 月有阴晴圆缺，人有悲欢离合。——苏轼

(yuè yǒu yīn qíng yuán quē, rén yǒu bēi huān lí hé — Sū Shì)

• Translation: “The moon waxes and wanes; humans know joy, sorrow, reunion, and parting.”
• Explanation: Su Shi’s “Remembering Ziyou on a Moonlit Night” (《水调歌头》) universalizes impermanence. By comparing life’s fluctuations to lunar cycles, he normalizes emotional complexity. This line comforts those grieving loss, framing change as natural and cyclical rather than tragic.

66. 落红不是无情物，化作春泥更护花。——龚自珍

(luò hóng bú shì wú qíng wù, huà zuò chūn ní gèng hù huā — Gōng Zìzhēn)

• Translation: “Fallen petals are not heartless; they turn to spring mud to nourish flowers.”
• Explanation: Gong Zizhen’s Qing poem “Miscellaneous Poems” (《己亥杂诗》) redefines decay as renewal. It symbolizes sacrifice for future generations—a metaphor for mentorship, environmental recycling, or societal progress. This challenges short-term thinking, urging contributions beyond one’s lifespan.

67. 闲云潭影日悠悠，物换星移几度秋。——王勃

(xián yún tán yǐng rì yōu yōu, wù huàn xīng yí jǐ dù qiū — Wáng Bó)

• Translation: “Lazy clouds reflect in the pond; stars shift through countless autumns.”
• Explanation: Wang Bo’s Tang Dynasty “Preface to the Tengwang Pavilion” (《滕王阁序》) juxtaposes fleeting human endeavors with cosmic timelessness. It humbles ambition, suggesting that true significance lies in harmony with universal rhythms rather than earthly achievements.

68. 蝉噪林逾静，鸟鸣山更幽。——王籍

(chán zào lín yú jìng, niǎo míng shān gèng yōu — Wáng Jí)

• Translation: “Cicadas’ clamor deepens the forest’s silence; birdsong heightens the mountain’s solitude.”
• Explanation: Wang Ji’s Southern Dynasty poem “Entering Ruoye Stream” (《入若耶溪》) uses paradox to express Zen tranquility. Noise and stillness coexist, teaching that inner peace is found not in absence of chaos, but through acceptance of contrasts—a lesson for modern noise-polluted lives.

69. 不以规矩，不能成方圆。——《孟子》

(bù yǐ guī jǔ, bù néng chéng fāng yuán — Mèngzǐ)

• Translation: “Without compass and square, one cannot form circles and squares.”
• Explanation: Mencius’s metaphor underscores the necessity of rules for societal order. While advocating discipline, it also implies flexibility—tools guide but don’t stifle creativity. This balances structure and innovation, relevant to education, governance, and ethical frameworks.

70. 天行健，君子以自强不息。——《周易》

(tiān xíng jiàn, jūn zǐ yǐ zì qiáng bù xī — Zhōu Yì)

• Translation: “The heavens move vigorously; thus the noble person strives unceasingly.”
• Explanation: From I Ching (《易经》), this defines Confucian self-cultivation. Aligning with cosmic perseverance, individuals must relentlessly improve morally and intellectually. Modern interpretations link it to lifelong learning and resilience in personal or professional growth.

71. 生活是一种律动，须有光有影，有左有右，有晴有雨。——老舍

(shēng huó shì yī zhǒng lǜ dòng, xū yǒu guāng yǒu yǐng, yǒu zuǒ yǒu yòu, yǒu qíng yǒu yǔ — Lǎo Shě)

• Translation: “Life is a rhythm of light and shadow, left and right, sunshine and rain.”
• Explanation: Lao She, a modern Chinese novelist, uses natural contrasts to depict life’s complexity. He suggests that embracing both joy and sorrow creates harmony. This metaphor inspires resilience in facing life’s fluctuations, resonating with psychological approaches that advocate acceptance of emotional duality.

72. 人生的刺，就在这里，留恋着不肯快走的，偏是你所不留恋的东西。——钱钟书

(rén shēng de cì, jiù zài zhè lǐ, liú liàn zhe bù kěn kuài zǒu de, piān shì nǐ suǒ bù liú liàn de dōng xī — Qián Zhōngshū)

• Translation: “Life’s thorn lies here: what you cling to is precisely what you claim not to cherish.”
• Explanation: From Qian Zhongshu’s “Fortress Besieged” (《围城》), this paradox critiques human contradictions. It reveals how attachment to fleeting desires traps individuals, a theme explored in existential literature and modern discussions about consumerism and self-deception.

73. 生命是一袭华美的袍，爬满了蚤子。——张爱玲

(shēng mìng shì yī xí huá měi de páo, pá mǎn le zǎo zi — Zhāng Àilíng)

• Translation: “Life is a resplendent robe, crawling with lice.”
• Explanation: Eileen Chang’s iconic metaphor from “Lust, Caution” (《色，戒》) juxtaposes surface glamour with hidden struggles. It mirrors her critique of societal facades, urging acknowledgment of life’s imperfections—a perspective echoed in postmodern deconstructions of idealism.

74. 人生的意义在于承担人生无意义的勇气。——木心

(rén shēng de yì yì zài yú chéng dān rén shēng wú yì yì de yǒng qì — Mù Xīn)

• Translation: “Life’s meaning lies in the courage to bear its meaninglessness.”
• Explanation: Mu Xin’s existentialist reflection merges Eastern stoicism with Western philosophy. By confronting life’s inherent absurdity, one finds purpose in perseverance. This aligns with Camus’s “Myth of Sisyphus”, offering solace to those grappling with modern existential crises.

75. 真正的勇士，敢于直面惨淡的人生。——鲁迅

(zhēn zhèng de yǒng shì, gǎn yú zhí miàn cǎn dàn de rén shēng — Lǔ Xùn)

• Translation: “True warriors dare to confront life’s bleakness.”
• Explanation: Lu Xun, a pioneer of modern Chinese literature, champions intellectual bravery. Written during societal upheaval, this call to face harsh realities inspires activism and critical thinking, relevant to contemporary struggles against injustice and apathy.

76. 生活不是我们活过的日子，而是我们记住的日子。——莫言

(shēng huó bú shì wǒ men huó guò de rì zi, ér shì wǒ men jì zhù de rì zi — Mò Yán)

• Translation: “Life isn’t the days we live through, but the days we remember.”
• Explanation: Nobel laureate Mo Yan highlights memory’s role in shaping identity. This mirrors neuroscientific insights about selective recall defining selfhood. It encourages mindful living, as fleeting moments crystallize into lifelong narratives.

77. 人生如茶，第一道苦若生命，第二道甜似爱情，第三道淡如清风。——三毛

(rén shēng rú chá, dì yī dào kǔ ruò shēng mìng, dì èr dào tián sì ài qíng, dì sān dào dàn rú qīng fēng — Sānmáo)

• Translation: “Life is like tea: the first sip bitter as existence, the second sweet as love, the third mild as a breeze.”
• Explanation: Sanmao’s metaphor maps life’s stages to tea’s evolving flavors. It celebrates transformation through hardship and love, culminating in serene acceptance—a Taoist-inspired roadmap for navigating youth, passion, and wisdom.

78. 人是为了活着本身而活着，而不是为了活着之外的任何事物。——余华《活着》

(rén shì wèi le huó zhe běn shēn ér huó zhe, ér bú shì wèi le huó zhe zhī wài de rèn hé shì wù — Yú Huá)

• Translation: “We live for the sake of living itself, not for anything beyond it.”
• Explanation: Yu Hua’s novel “To Live” (《活着》) strips life to its primal resilience. Through a protagonist’s relentless survival, it questions grand narratives of purpose, asserting that existence’s raw persistence holds intrinsic value—an antidote to modern achievement obsession.

79. 人生在世，还不是有时笑笑人家，有时给人家笑笑。——林语堂

(rén shēng zài shì, hái bú shì yǒu shí xiào xiào rén jiā, yǒu shí gěi rén jiā xiào xiào — Lín Yǔtáng)

• Translation: “Life is but sometimes laughing at others, sometimes being laughed at.”
• Explanation: Lin Yutang’s humorous observation from “The Importance of Living” (《生活的艺术》) deflates human pretensions. It advocates humility and levity, suggesting that shared laughter bridges social divides—a timeless remedy for ego clashes in personal and professional spheres.

80. 心若没有栖息的地方，到哪里都是在流浪。——三毛

(xīn ruò méi yǒu qī xī de dì fang, dào nǎ lǐ dōu shì zài liú làng — Sānmáo)

• Translation: “Without a place for the heart to rest, everywhere is wandering.”
• Explanation: Sanmao’s nomadic wisdom from “Stories of the Sahara” (《撒哈拉的故事》) links inner peace to belonging. It critiques rootless modernity, urging cultivation of emotional or spiritual anchors—whether relationships, passions, or self-awareness—to transcend existential homelessness.

81. 宝剑锋从磨砺出，梅花香自苦寒来。——《警世贤文》

(bǎo jiàn fēng cóng mó lì chū, méi huā xiāng cóng kǔ hán lái — Jǐngshì Xiánwén)

• Translation: “A sword’s edge is honed through grinding; plum blossoms’ fragrance comes from bitter cold.”
• Explanation: This proverb juxtaposes human perseverance with nature’s trials. It teaches that mastery and beauty emerge only through sustained effort and adversity. Widely quoted in education and self-help contexts, it inspires resilience in personal growth, career challenges, or artistic pursuits.

82. 千淘万漉虽辛苦，吹尽狂沙始到金。——刘禹锡

(qiān táo wàn lù suī xīn kǔ, chuī jìn kuáng shā shǐ dào jīn — Liú Yǔxī)

• Translation: “After endless sifting through sand, only then does gold appear.”
• Explanation: From Liu Yuxi’s Tang poem “Song of the Bamboo Branch” (《竹枝词》), this metaphor celebrates persistence in refining truth from chaos. It applies to scientific research, creative endeavors, or personal discernment—urging patience to uncover value beneath life’s distractions.

83. 天将降大任于斯人也，必先苦其心志，劳其筋骨。——《孟子》

(tiān jiāng jiàng dà rèn yú sī rén yě, bì xiān kǔ qí xīn zhì, láo qí jīn gǔ — Mèngzǐ)

• Translation: “When heaven assigns great使命, it first tests the mind with hardship and the body with toil.”
• Explanation: Mencius’s “Gaozi II” (《告子下》) frames adversity as divine preparation. This Confucian perspective reframes suffering as a crucible for leadership, resonating with modern theories on grit and post-traumatic growth.

84. 不积跬步，无以至千里；不积小流，无以成江海。——荀子

(bù jī kuǐ bù, wú yǐ zhì qiān lǐ; bù jī xiǎo liú, wú yǐ chéng jiāng hǎi — Xúnzǐ)

• Translation: “Without accumulating steps, no thousand-mile journey; without gathering streams, no rivers or seas.”
• Explanation: Xunzi’s “Encouraging Learning” (《劝学》) champions incremental progress. This foundational philosophy underpins habit formation theories, financial savings strategies, and environmental conservation efforts—small actions compound into transformative outcomes.

85. 有志者，事竟成，破釜沉舟，百二秦关终属楚。——蒲松龄

(yǒu zhì zhě, shì jìng chéng, pò fǔ chén zhōu, bǎi èr qín guān zhōng shǔ chǔ — Pú Sōnglíng)

• Translation: “Where there’s will, success follows; sink the boats, smash the pots—the Qin passes fall to Chu.”
• Explanation: Pu Songling’s “Strange Tales” (《聊斋志异》) cites Xiang Yu’s legendary resolve. The idiom “burn bridges” originates here, symbolizing total commitment. It inspires entrepreneurs and activists to eliminate retreat as a psychological strategy.

86. 黑发不知勤学早，白首方悔读书迟。——颜真卿

(hēi fà bù zhī qín xué zǎo, bái shǒu fāng huǐ dú shū chí — Yán Zhēnqīng)

• Translation: “In youth, unaware of early study; in old age, lamenting late learning.”
• Explanation: Yan Zhenqing’s Tang calligraphy couplet warns against procrastination. It mirrors modern “compound interest” logic in education—early investments yield lifelong dividends. Quoted to motivate students and lifelong learners alike.

87. 少壮不努力，老大徒伤悲。——《长歌行》

(shào zhuàng bù nǔ lì, lǎo dà tú shāng bēi — Cháng Gē Xíng)

• Translation: “If youth neglects effort, old age harvests only regret.”
• Explanation: This Han Dynasty folk poem from “Yuefu Poetry” (乐府诗) critiques squandered potential. Its urgency echoes in demographic debates about aging populations and career planning, urging proactive use of time as life’s scarcest resource.

88. 业精于勤荒于嬉，行成于思毁于随。——韩愈

(yè jīng yú qín huāng yú xī, xíng chéng yú sī huǐ yú suí — Hán Yù)

• Translation: “Skills thrive on diligence, perish in play; deeds succeed through thought, fail through mindlessness.”
• Explanation: Han Yu’s Tang essay “Advice on Learning” (《进学解》) dissects success factors. It warns against distraction in the digital age, advocating intentional focus—a precursor to modern productivity frameworks like deep work.

89. 纸上得来终觉浅，绝知此事要躬行。——陆游

(zhǐ shàng dé lái zhōng jué qiǎn, jué zhī cǐ shì yào gōng xíng — Lù Yóu)

• Translation: “Knowledge from pages feels shallow; true understanding demands action.”
• Explanation: Lu You’s Song poem “Winter Night Reading” (《冬夜读书示子聿》) bridges theory and practice. This empiricist view aligns with experiential learning models, vocational education advocacy, and startup mantras like “fail fast, learn faster.”

90. 海纳百川，有容乃大；壁立千仞，无欲则刚。——林则徐

(hǎi nà bǎi chuān, yǒu róng nǎi dà; bì lì qiān rèn, wú yù zé gāng — Lín Zéxú)

• Translation: “The sea’s greatness lies in embracing all rivers; the cliff’s strength in lacking desire.”
• Explanation: Lin Zexu’s Qing-era couplet merges Daoist openness with Confucian integrity. It guides leadership—tolerance for diversity paired with incorruptible ethics—remaining relevant in globalized governance and corporate social responsibility debates.

91. 人生贵得适意尔，何能羁宦数千里以要名爵？——张翰

(rén shēng guì dé shì yì ěr, hé néng jī huàn shù qiān lǐ yǐ yào míng jué? — Zhāng Hàn)

• Translation: “Life’s value lies in freedom; why chain oneself to officialdom for titles?”
• Explanation: Zhang Han’s Jin Dynasty resignation from office inspired this rebellion against Confucian careerism. It champions individual autonomy over societal expectations—a precursor to modern discussions about work-life balance and authentic living.

92. 但行好事，莫问前程。——《增广贤文》

(dàn xíng hǎo shì, mò wèn qián chéng — Zēngguǎng Xiánwén)

• Translation: “Do good deeds; never ask about their future rewards.”
• Explanation: This Ming Dynasty adage from “Expanded Virtues” promotes altruism without attachment to outcomes. Rooted in Buddhist karma and Daoist spontaneity, it encourages ethical action as an end in itself—a counter to transactional mindsets in philanthropy or leadership.

93. 春有百花秋有月，夏有凉风冬有雪。若无闲事挂心头，便是人间好时节。——无门慧开

(chūn yǒu bǎi huā qiū yǒu yuè, xià yǒu liáng fēng dōng yǒu xuě. Ruò wú xián shì guà xīn tóu, biàn shì rén jiān hǎo shí jié — Wúmén Huìkāi)

• Translation: “Spring flowers, autumn moons, summer breezes, winter snows—if no trivial worries burden your heart, every season is bliss.”
• Explanation: Zen master Wumen Huikai’s poem in “Gateless Gate” (《无门关》) reframes happiness as mental liberation. By releasing petty concerns, one discovers joy in nature’s rhythms. This aligns with mindfulness practices that combat modern anxiety through present-moment awareness.

94. 一粥一饭，当思来处不易；半丝半缕，恒念物力维艰。——朱柏庐《治家格言》

(yī zhōu yī fàn, dāng sī lái chù bù yì; bàn sī bàn lǚ, héng niàn wù lì wéi jiān — Zhū Bǎilú)

• Translation: “Cherish each grain of rice and thread of cloth, for their creation demands labor.”
• Explanation: From Zhu Bailu’s “Family Maxims” (《治家格言》), this Qing Dynasty text emphasizes gratitude and frugality. It reminds us to respect the effort behind resources, countering wastefulness. In modern sustainability movements, it’s invoked to advocate mindful consumption and environmental stewardship.

95. 儿孙自有儿孙福，莫为儿孙作马牛。——民间谚语

(ér sūn zì yǒu ér sūn fú, mò wèi ér sūn zuò mǎ niú — Mínjiān Yànyǔ)

• Translation: “Children have their own fortunes; don’t slave like oxen for them.”
• Explanation: This proverb critiques overparenting, urging trust in younger generations’ autonomy. Rooted in Daoist non-interference, it warns against sacrificing personal well-being for descendants. Modern interpretations use it to discuss healthy boundaries and intergenerational independence.

96. 家和贫也足，不义富多扰。——申居郧《西岩赘语》

(jiā hé pín yě zú, bú yì fù duō rǎo — Shēn Jūyún)

• Translation: “A harmonious home feels rich even in poverty; ill-gotten wealth brings endless trouble.”
• Explanation: Shen Juyun’s Qing Dynasty essay contrasts familial harmony with material corruption. It asserts that ethical poverty trumps immoral riches—a lesson for societies grappling with inequality and ethical compromises in pursuit of wealth.

97. 清官难断家务事。——《红楼梦》

(qīng guān nán duàn jiā wù shì — Hónglóu Mèng)

• Translation: “Even honest officials struggle to judge family disputes.”
• Explanation: From Dream of the Red Chamber, this reflects the complexity of domestic conflicts. It acknowledges that familial emotions defy rigid legal logic, advocating empathy over cold rationality—a principle relevant to modern mediation and counseling practices.

98. 当家才知柴米贵，养儿方知父母恩。

(dāng jiā cái zhī chái mǐ guì, yǎng ér fāng zhī fù mǔ ēn)

• Translation: “Managing a household teaches the cost of firewood and rice; raising children reveals parental love.”
• Explanation: This proverb underscores experiential learning. Responsibility breeds appreciation for unseen efforts, whether in household management or parenthood. It’s cited to encourage humility and gratitude toward caregivers and everyday labor.

99. 妻贤夫祸少，子孝父心宽。

(qī xián fū huò shǎo, zǐ xiào fù xīn kuān)

• Translation: “A virtuous wife spares her husband trouble; a filial son eases his father’s heart.”
• Explanation: Rooted in Confucian family ethics, this saying links domestic harmony to collective well-being. It highlights mutual responsibility in relationships, resonating with modern discussions on partnership dynamics and intergenerational support systems.

100. 兄弟同心，其利断金。

(xiōng dì tóng xīn, qí lì duàn jīn)

• Translation: “Brothers united can slice through metal.”
• Explanation: From the I Ching (《易经》), this metaphor celebrates familial unity as an unstoppable force. While literal siblings are referenced, it extends to any collaborative effort. Modern teams invoke it to stress trust and shared purpose in overcoming challenges.

101. 菩提本无树，明镜亦非台。本来无一物，何处惹尘埃？——惠能

(pú tí běn wú shù, míng jìng yì fēi tái. běn lái wú yī wù, hé chù rě chén āi — Huìnéng)

• Translation: “Bodhi is no tree, nor mirror a stand; originally nothing exists—where could dust alight?”
• Explanation: From Huineng’s Platform Sutra (《六祖坛经》), this Zen koan challenges attachment to ritual and form. By negating physical symbols of enlightenment, it points to inner awakening beyond material constructs—a cornerstone of Chan Buddhism’s direct approach to spiritual realization.

102. 饥来吃饭，困来即眠。——禅宗语录

(jī lái chī fàn, kùn lái jí mián — Chánzōng Yǔlù)

• Translation: “Hungry? Eat. Tired? Sleep.”
• Explanation: This Zen maxim strips life to its essence, rejecting overcomplication. It teaches trust in natural instincts and the present moment, aligning with mindfulness practices. Modern applications include stress reduction through simple, intentional living rather than chasing abstract ideals.

103. 平常心是道。——赵州禅师

(píng cháng xīn shì dào — Zhàozhōu Chánshī)

• Translation: “Ordinary mind is the Dao.”
• Explanation: Master Zhaozhou’s teaching in Zen Records (《赵州录》) elevates daily simplicity to spiritual practice. True wisdom lies not in esoteric rituals but in embracing mundane tasks with full awareness—a philosophy echoed in secular mindfulness and minimalism movements.

104. 大道至简，衍化至繁。——《道德经》

(dà dào zhì jiǎn, yǎn huà zhì fán — Dàodéjīng)

• Translation: “The great Dao is supremely simple; its manifestations are infinitely complex.”
• Explanation: From Tao Te Ching, this paradox explains how universal principles underlie life’s diversity. It inspires scientific inquiry (e.g., unifying theories) and artistic creation, urging seekers to discern simplicity within chaos—a lesson for navigating information overload.

105. 至人无己，神人无功，圣人无名。——庄子

(zhì rén wú jǐ, shén rén wú gōng, shèng rén wú míng — Zhuāngzǐ)

• Translation: “The ultimate person has no self; the divine person no deeds; the sage no fame.”
• Explanation: Zhuangzi’s “Free and Easy Wandering” (《逍遥游》) defines transcendence through selflessness. True mastery dissolves ego, aligning with nature’s flow. Modern leaders apply this to servant leadership, prioritizing collective good over personal accolades.

106. 大音希声，大象无形。——老子

(dà yīn xī shēng, dà xiàng wú xíng — Lǎozǐ)

• Translation: “The loudest sound is silent; the grandest form is formless.”
• Explanation: From Tao Te Ching, this illustrates Daoist reverence for subtlety. True power and beauty reside in understatement, not ostentation. It influences minimalist design, leadership humility, and ecological ethics—urging harmony with unseen forces.

107. 夫唯不争，故天下莫能与之争。——老子

(fū wéi bù zhēng, gù tiān xià mò néng yǔ zhī zhēng — Lǎozǐ)

• Translation: “By not contending, none under heaven can contend against you.”
• Explanation: Laozi’s strategy of non-competition in Tao Te Ching advocates victory through alignment with natural order. It inspires conflict resolution through indirect influence (e.g., diplomacy, market leadership) rather than brute force—relevant to business and geopolitics.

108. 人生到处知何似，应似飞鸿踏雪泥。——苏轼

(rén shēng dào chù zhī hé sì, yīng sì fēi hóng tà xuě ní — Sū Shì)

• Translation: “Life’s journey resembles a swan’s footprints on snowy mud—fleeting yet poetic.”
• Explanation: Su Shi’s metaphor from “Inscription on a Wall” (《和子由渑池怀旧》) merges Zen impermanence with literary beauty. It encourages valuing transient experiences over permanent legacies, resonating with existentialist reflections on life’s ephemeral artistry.

109. 一切有为法，如梦幻泡影，如露亦如电，应作如是观。——《金刚经》

(yī qiè yǒu wéi fǎ, rú mèng huàn pào yǐng, rú lù yì rú diàn, yīng zuò rú shì guān — Jīngāng Jīng)

• Translation: “All conditioned phenomena are like dreams, bubbles, shadows—like dew or lightning. Perceive them thus.”
• Explanation: The Diamond Sutra’s (《金刚经》) Buddhist teaching dismantles attachment to reality’s illusions. By recognizing life’s transient nature, one frees oneself from suffering—a foundation for mindfulness-based therapies and non-attachment philosophies.

110. 若无闲事挂心头，便是人间好时节。——无门慧开

(ruò wú xián shì guà xīn tóu, biàn shì rén jiān hǎo shí jié — Wúmén Huìkāi)

• Translation: “With no trivial worries burdening the heart, every season is a time of joy.”
• Explanation: Zen master Wumen Huikai’s verse in “Gateless Gate” (《无门关》) reframes happiness as mental clarity. By shedding petty concerns, one aligns with nature’s rhythms—a principle mirrored in cognitive-behavioral techniques for anxiety management and present-focused living.

111. 人勤地不懒。

(rén qín dì bù lǎn)

• Translation: “Diligent hands make fertile land.”
• Explanation: This agrarian proverb emphasizes the direct relationship between effort and reward. Rooted in China’s farming traditions, it teaches that consistent labor (whether in agriculture, education, or career) yields tangible results. Modern interpretations use it to advocate work ethic in entrepreneurship or personal development, countering shortcuts and instant-gratification culture.

112. 早起的鸟儿有虫吃。

(zǎo qǐ de niǎo er yǒu chóng chī)

• Translation: “The early bird catches the worm.”
• Explanation: A universal metaphor for proactive behavior, this saying underscores the advantages of initiative and preparation. While similar to Western idioms, its Chinese version often carries a Confucian undertone of self-discipline. It’s applied in time management strategies, career advancement, and even health routines advocating morning productivity.

113. 不怕慢，就怕站。

(bú pà màn, jiù pà zhàn)

• Translation: “Fear not slowness; fear only standing still.”
• Explanation: This proverb critiques stagnation over gradual progress. Inspired by Daoist acceptance of natural pacing, it encourages perseverance despite setbacks. Modern contexts cite it in marathon training, language learning, or business growth—emphasizing that small, steady efforts compound into significant achievements over time.

114. 病从口入，祸从口出。

(bìng cóng kǒu rù, huò cóng kǒu chū)

• Translation: “Illness enters through the mouth; disaster exits through it.”
• Explanation: A dual warning about physical and social consequences. The first half advocates mindful eating and hygiene, while the second cautions against careless speech. Widely quoted in health education and communication training, it bridges ancient wisdom with modern concerns like misinformation and dietary ethics.

115. 酒逢知己千杯少，话不投机半句多。

(jiǔ féng zhī jǐ qiān bēi shǎo, huà bù tóu jī bàn jù duō)

• Translation: “With a true friend, a thousand cups are too few; with no rapport, half a sentence is too much.”
• Explanation: This poetic contrast from Ming literature celebrates authentic connections. It highlights the value of quality over quantity in relationships, resonating in social media-era discussions about superficial networking versus deep bonds. Often cited in friendship and professional collaboration advice.

116. 人不可貌相，海水不可斗量。

(rén bù kě mào xiàng, hǎi shuǐ bù kě dǒu liáng)

• Translation: “Never judge a person by looks; never measure the sea with a bucket.”
• Explanation: A critique of superficial judgment, this proverb urges humility in assessing others’ potential. Its maritime metaphor evokes the vastness of human complexity. Modern applications include diversity initiatives, anti-discrimination advocacy, and talent management strategies that prioritize skills over appearances.

117. 笑一笑，十年少；愁一愁，白了头。

(xiào yī xiào, shí nián shào; chóu yī chóu, bái le tóu)

• Translation: “A laugh subtracts ten years; a worry turns hair white.”
• Explanation: Blending folk wisdom and traditional medicine, this couplet links emotional states to physical health. Modern science confirms stress accelerates aging, making this saying a precursor to psychosomatic health awareness. It’s used in wellness campaigns promoting laughter therapy and mental health care.

118. 人怕出名猪怕壮。

(rén pà chū míng zhū pà zhuàng)

• Translation: “Humans fear fame; pigs fear being fattened.”
• Explanation: A darkly humorous warning about the perils of success. Historically, fame could attract envy or political danger, just as fattened pigs faced slaughter. Modern interpretations critique celebrity culture and corporate monopolies, cautioning against unchecked ambition and visibility in the digital age.

119. 多个朋友多条路，多个仇人多堵墙。

(duō gè péng you duō tiáo lù, duō gè chóu rén duō dǔ qiáng)

• Translation: “More friends, more paths; more enemies, more walls.”
• Explanation: This pragmatic advice from Ming-era Expanded Virtues (《增广贤文》) quantifies social capital. It underscores networking’s practical benefits while warning against antagonism. Applied in diplomacy, business partnerships, and community building, it advocates strategic kindness and conflict avoidance for long-term success.

120. 在家靠父母，出门靠朋友。

(zài jiā kào fù mǔ, chū mén kào péng you)

• Translation: “At home, rely on parents; abroad, rely on friends.”
• Explanation: A Confucian-socialist blend valuing both family and community. It reflects traditional clan-based societies but adapts to modern globalization, where migrants depend on social networks. Often quoted to encourage mutual aid systems, mentorship cultures, and the importance of building trust in unfamiliar environments.

121. 生当作人杰，死亦为鬼雄。——李清照

(shēng dāng zuò rén jié, sǐ yì wéi guǐ xióng — Lǐ Qīngzhào)

• Translation: “In life, be a hero among men; in death, a hero among ghosts.”
• Explanation: Li Qingzhao’s defiant couplet from “Summer Quatrain” (《夏日绝句》) challenges gender norms of the Song Dynasty. Written amid national turmoil, it asserts that true greatness transcends mortality and societal roles. Modern feminists and activists cite it to inspire courage in adversity and redefine legacy beyond traditional expectations.

122. 死去元知万事空，但悲不见九州同。——陆游

(sǐ qù yuán zhī wàn shì kōng, dàn bēi bú jiàn jiǔ zhōu tóng — Lù Yóu)

• Translation: “In death, all is void—yet I grieve not to see the land united.”
• Explanation: From Lu You’s deathbed poem “To My Son” (《示儿》), this lament blends personal mortality with patriotic despair. It reflects Confucian loyalty to collective ideals, inspiring modern calls for social unity and perseverance in the face of unfinished causes.

123. 人生自古谁无死？留取丹心照汗青。——文天祥

(rén shēng zì gǔ shuí wú sǐ? liú qǔ dān xīn zhào hàn qīng — Wén Tiānxiáng)

• Translation: “Since ancient times, who escapes death? Let my loyal heart illuminate history.”
• Explanation: Wen Tianxiang’s final verse before execution by the Yuan Dynasty epitomizes unyielding integrity. It has become a symbol of resistance against oppression, quoted in movements for justice, nationalism, and ethical defiance worldwide.

124. 纵浪大化中，不喜亦不惧。——陶渊明

(zòng làng dà huà zhōng, bù xǐ yì bù jù — Táo Yuānmíng)

• Translation: “Drift freely in the cosmic flow, neither rejoicing nor fearing.”
• Explanation: Tao Yuanming’s Daoist-inspired poem “Substance, Shadow, and Spirit” (《形影神》) advocates surrender to life’s natural cycles. This philosophy of equanimity resonates in mindfulness practices and ecological ethics, urging harmony with impermanent realities.

125. 向死而生。——海德格尔（中国化解读）

(xiàng sǐ ér shēng — Hǎi dé gé ěr)

• Translation: “To live toward death.”
• Explanation: Heidegger’s existential concept, reinterpreted through Chinese philosophy, emphasizes confronting mortality to awaken authentic living. It merges Western existentialism with Daoist acceptance, inspiring modern reflections on purposeful existence amid life’s fragility.

126. 未知生，焉知死？——《论语》

(wèi zhī shēng, yān zhī sǐ? — Lúnyǔ)

• Translation: “If you do not understand life, how can you understand death?”
• Explanation: Confucius’s pragmatic focus in Analects prioritizes ethical living over metaphysical speculation. This saying grounds philosophical inquiry in daily conduct, relevant to secular humanism and debates about balancing practical and existential concerns.

127. 生死有命，富贵在天。——《论语》

(shēng sǐ yǒu mìng, fù guì zài tiān — Lúnyǔ)

• Translation: “Life and death are fated; wealth and honor lie with heaven.”
• Explanation: Often misread as fatalism, this Analects passage actually advocates balancing effort with acceptance. It acknowledges external limits while urging moral agency—a nuanced approach to modern discussions on privilege, inequality, and personal responsibility.

128. 哀莫大于心死。——庄子

(āi mò dà yú xīn sǐ — Zhuāngzǐ)

• Translation: “No sorrow surpasses a dead heart.”
• Explanation: Zhuangzi’s “Tian Zifang” (《田子方》) warns against spiritual apathy. Metaphorically, a “dead heart” signifies loss of curiosity or hope. This resonates in mental health advocacy, urging proactive nurturing of passion and purpose to combat existential despair.

129. 生如夏花之绚烂，死如秋叶之静美。——泰戈尔（中国化引用）

(shēng rú xià huā zhī xuàn làn, sǐ rú qiū yè zhī jìng měi — Tàigē’ěr)

• Translation: “Life like summer flowers’ brilliance; death like autumn leaves’ serenity.”
• Explanation: Tagore’s line, popularized in China through Bing Xin’s translations, merges Indian mysticism with Chinese aestheticism. It reframes mortality as a natural art form, offering solace in grief and inspiring eco-spiritual reflections on life cycles.

130. 死生亦大矣，岂不痛哉！——王羲之《兰亭集序》

(sǐ shēng yì dà yǐ, qǐ bù tòng zāi! — Wáng Xīzhī)

• Translation: “Life and death are profound—how can we not grieve!”
• Explanation: From Wang Xizhi’s “Preface to the Orchid Pavilion Poems” (《兰亭集序》), this lament juxtaposes transient human joys with eternal cosmic truths. Its raw emotionality humanizes philosophical discourse, bridging classical elegy with modern explorations of mortality’s emotional weight.

131. 此情可待成追忆，只是当时已惘然。——李商隐

(cǐ qíng kě dài chéng zhuī yì, zhǐ shì dāng shí yǐ wǎng rán — Lǐ Shāngyǐn)

• Translation: “This love could become a memory to cherish—but in that moment, it was only bewilderment.”
• Explanation: From Li Shangyin’s Tang poem “Jin Se” (《锦瑟》), this line captures the bittersweet haze of lost love. It reflects on how emotions crystallize into nostalgia over time, resonating with modern psychology’s study of memory distortion and the romanticization of past relationships in literature and film.

132. 问君能有几多愁？恰似一江春水向东流。——李煜

(wèn jūn néng yǒu jǐ duō chóu? qià sì yī jiāng chūn shuǐ xiàng dōng liú — Lǐ Yù)

• Translation: “How much sorrow can one hold? Like a river of spring water flowing endlessly east.”
• Explanation: Li Yu’s Song poem “Yu Meiren” (《虞美人》) uses nature’s boundlessness to quantify grief. Written after his kingdom’s fall, it universalizes personal loss, inspiring artistic expressions of melancholy and modern discussions about emotional resilience in the face of irreversible change.

133. 抽刀断水水更流，举杯消愁愁更愁。——李白

(chōu dāo duàn shuǐ shuǐ gèng liú, jǔ bēi xiāo chóu chóu gèng chóu — Lǐ Bái)

• Translation: “Draw a sword to cut the water—it flows fiercer; raise a cup to drown sorrow—it grows deeper.”
• Explanation: Li Bai’s “Farewell to Secretary Shu Yun” (《宣州谢脁楼饯别校书叔云》) critiques futile resistance to natural emotions. The paradox warns against escapism, aligning with modern therapeutic approaches that advocate confronting rather than suppressing psychological pain.

134. 同是天涯沦落人，相逢何必曾相识。——白居易

(tóng shì tiān yá lún luò rén, xiāng féng hé bì céng xiāng shí — Bái Jūyì)

• Translation: “Strangers in exile under the same sky—why must we have met before to connect?”
• Explanation: Bai Juyi’s “Song of the Pipa Player” (《琵琶行》) finds kinship in shared vulnerability. This sentiment underpins modern support groups and refugee solidarity movements, emphasizing empathy over cultural or social barriers in human connection.

135. 独在异乡为异客，每逢佳节倍思亲。——王维

(dú zài yì xiāng wéi yì kè, měi féng jiā jié bèi sī qīn — Wáng Wéi)

• Translation: “Alone in a foreign land as a stranger, festivals double my longing for home.”
• Explanation: Wang Wei’s Tang poem “On the Mountain Holiday” (《九月九日忆山东兄弟》) articulates the migrant experience. Its timeless relevance is seen in diaspora studies and globalized societies, where holidays amplify cultural dislocation and the universal ache for belonging.

136. 冠盖满京华，斯人独憔悴。——杜甫

(guān gài mǎn jīng huá, sī rén dú qiáo cuì — Dù Fǔ)

• Translation: “The capital teems with officials; only this soul withers in solitude.”
• Explanation: Du Fu’s “Dreaming of Li Bai” (《梦李白》) contrasts societal success with personal desolation. It critiques hollow ambition, resonating in modern debates about mental health in high-pressure careers and the cost of sacrificing authenticity for status.

137. 我本将心向明月，奈何明月照沟渠。——高明《琵琶记》

(wǒ běn jiāng xīn xiàng míng yuè, nài hé míng yuè zhào gōu qú — Gāo Míng)

• Translation: “My heart yearns for the moon, yet the moon lights only the gutter.”
• Explanation: From Gao Ming’s Yuan opera “The Lute” (《琵琶记》), this metaphor laments unrequited devotion. It captures the agony of misplaced loyalty, applicable to modern relationships, workplace disillusionment, or artistic endeavors where effort goes unrecognized.

138. 曾经沧海难为水，除却巫山不是云。——元稹

(céng jīng cāng hǎi nán wéi shuǐ, chú què wū shān bú shì yún — Yuán Zhěn)

• Translation: “Having seen the ocean, no water suffices; beyond Mount Wu, no clouds compare.”
• Explanation: Yuan Zhen’s “Lament for My Departed Wife” (《离思》) elevates lost love to an irreplaceable ideal. This sentiment parallels modern concepts of “the one that got away” and the psychological impact of formative experiences on future relationships.

139. 人生若只如初见，何事秋风悲画扇。——纳兰性德

(rén shēng ruò zhī rú chū jiàn, hé shì qiū fēng bēi huà shàn — Nàlán Xìngdé)

• Translation: “If life could stay as first meetings, why would autumn winds mourn painted fans?”
• Explanation: Nalan Xingde’s Qing poem “Magnolia Flowers” (《木兰花令》) mourns love’s erosion by time. Its nostalgia for initial purity resonates in discussions about relationship sustainability and the tension between idealism and reality in modern romance.

140. 欲将心事付瑶琴，知音少，弦断有谁听？——岳飞

(yù jiāng xīn shì fù yáo qín, zhī yīn shǎo, xián duàn yǒu shuí tīng? — Yuè Fēi)

• Translation: “I’d confide my heart to a jade lute—but few understand music; if strings snap, who would listen?”
• Explanation: Yue Fei’s “Little Red Hill” (《小重山》) expresses isolation amid patriotic duty. The “broken strings” symbolize unheard struggles, mirroring modern crises of loneliness in hyper-connected societies and the search for authentic communication.

141. 读万卷书，行万里路。——董其昌

(dú wàn juàn shū, xíng wàn lǐ lù — Dǒng Qíchāng)

• Translation: “Read ten thousand books; walk ten thousand miles.”
• Explanation: Ming Dynasty artist Dong Qichang advocated balancing intellectual study with experiential learning. The phrase underscores that true wisdom combines theory (books) and practice (travel). Modern educators cite it to promote interdisciplinary learning, fieldwork, and global perspectives in academic and professional development.

142. 实践出真知。

(shí jiàn chū zhēn zhī)

• Translation: “True knowledge emerges from practice.”
• Explanation: Rooted in Chinese empiricism, this proverb rejects abstract speculation. It aligns with scientific methods requiring hypothesis testing and real-world validation. Widely applied in entrepreneurship, tech innovation, and skill mastery, it emphasizes learning through trial, error, and adaptation.

143. 百闻不如一见，百见不如一干。

(bǎi wén bù rú yī jiàn, bǎi jiàn bù rú yī gàn)

• Translation: “Hearing a hundred times is worse than seeing once; seeing a hundred times is worse than doing once.”
• Explanation: This hierarchy of learning prioritizes direct engagement. It critiques passive consumption of information, advocating hands-on experience. Modern applications include immersive education models, apprenticeships, and “learning by doing” approaches in STEM fields.

144. 磨刀不误砍柴工。

(mó dāo bù wù kǎn chái gōng)

• Translation: “Sharpening the axe won’t delay the woodcutting.”
• Explanation: A metaphor for strategic preparation enhancing efficiency. Studies show proper planning saves time long-term, applicable to project management, research design, and even personal routines like morning rituals. It challenges the modern “hustle culture” obsession with speed over quality.

145. 不听老人言，吃亏在眼前。

(bù tīng lǎo rén yán, chī kuī zài yǎn qián)

• Translation: “Disregard elders’ advice, and loss looms ahead.”
• Explanation: While respecting tradition, this proverb also risks perpetuating outdated ideas. Modern reinterpretations balance ancestral wisdom with critical thinking—valuing experience but adapting advice to contemporary contexts like technology or social change.

146. 吃一堑，长一智。

(chī yī qiàn, zhǎng yī zhì)

• Translation: “A fall into the pit, a gain in your wit.”
• Explanation: This growth mindset reframes failure as tuition for wisdom. Psychological studies on post-traumatic growth and corporate “fail-forward” cultures (e.g., Silicon Valley) echo this idea, emphasizing resilience and adaptive learning from mistakes.

147. 失败是成功之母。

(shī bài shì chéng gōng zhī mǔ)

• Translation: “Failure is the mother of success.”
• Explanation: A cornerstone of Chinese resilience philosophy, this saying normalizes setbacks as stepping stones. Historical figures like Thomas Edison (“10,000 ways that won’t work”) and modern startups embracing iterative prototyping embody its spirit of persistent innovation.

148. 心急吃不了热豆腐。

(xīn jí chī bù liǎo rè dòu fu)

• Translation: “Impatient hands can’t eat hot tofu.”
• Explanation: Literally warning against burning one’s mouth, metaphorically it critiques reckless haste. Applied to financial investments, relationship building, or policy-making, it advocates measured pacing and emotional regulation for sustainable outcomes.

149. 临渊羡鱼，不如退而结网。——《汉书》

(lín yuān xiàn yú, bù rú tuì ér jié wǎng — Hànshū)

• Translation: “By the pond coveting fish, better retreat to weave a net.”
• Explanation: From Book of Han, this urges proactive problem-solving over passive desire. It inspires entrepreneurial mindsets—transforming ideas into actionable plans—and critiques modern “dreamer” cultures that lack execution.

150. 工欲善其事，必先利其器。——《论语》

(gōng yù shàn qí shì, bì xiān lì qí qì — Lúnyǔ)

• Translation: “To excel in work, first sharpen your tools.”
• Explanation: Confucius’s Analects highlights preparation’s role in success. Modern parallels include upskilling in careers, adopting cutting-edge technology, or mental “tools” like mindfulness. It’s a mantra for optimizing resources before tackling challenges.

151. 人比人，气死人。

(rén bǐ rén, qì sǐ rén)

• Translation: “Comparing yourself to others will only infuriate you.”
• Explanation: This proverb critiques the futility of social comparison, warning that envy and competition breed discontent. Modern psychology supports this, linking comparison to anxiety and low self-esteem. It encourages focusing on personal growth rather than external benchmarks—a mantra for mental health and authenticity in the age of social media.

152. 站着说话不腰疼。

(zhàn zhe shuō huà bù yāo téng)

• Translation: “Those who stand and talk feel no back pain.”
• Explanation: A critique of armchair critics who offer advice without firsthand experience. It highlights the disconnect between theory and practice, urging empathy and humility. Often cited in workplace dynamics, policy-making, or creative fields to challenge uninformed judgments.

153. 癞蛤蟆想吃天鹅肉。

(lài há ma xiǎng chī tiān é ròu)

• Translation: “A toad craves swan meat.”
• Explanation: This humorous metaphor mocks unrealistic ambitions or desires beyond one’s station. While cautioning against delusion, modern reinterpretations also question rigid social hierarchies, inspiring discussions about meritocracy versus systemic barriers in education and career advancement.

154. 画虎画皮难画骨，知人知面不知心。

(huà hǔ huà pí nán huà gǔ, zhī rén zhī miàn bù zhī xīn)

• Translation: “Painting a tiger’s skin is easy; capturing its bones is hard. Knowing faces is easy; knowing hearts is not.”
• Explanation: A Ming Dynasty proverb emphasizing the opacity of human nature. It warns against superficial judgments, advocating patience and discernment in relationships. Relevant to modern trust-building in business, cybersecurity, and interpersonal communication.

155. 饱汉不知饿汉饥。

(bǎo hàn bù zhī è hàn jī)

• Translation: “The well-fed cannot comprehend the starving.”
• Explanation: This critique of privilege underscores empathy gaps between different socioeconomic groups. It challenges policymakers and individuals to consider lived experiences beyond their own, resonating in debates about inequality, climate justice, and cultural representation.

156. 又要马儿跑，又要马儿不吃草。

(yòu yào mǎ er pǎo, yòu yào mǎ er bù chī cǎo)

• Translation: “Demand the horse to run fast yet forbid it to eat grass.”
• Explanation: A metaphor for exploitative expectations, whether in labor (e.g., overwork without fair pay) or environmental policies (e.g., demanding growth without resource investment). It critiques unsustainable practices in capitalism and urges balanced resource allocation.

157. 天下乌鸦一般黑。

(tiān xià wū yā yī bān hēi)

• Translation: “All crows under heaven are equally black.”
• Explanation: This cynical proverb suggests corruption or unethical behavior is universal across systems or groups. While often used to justify apathy, modern activists reinterpret it to call for systemic change rather than accepting the status quo.

158. 打肿脸充胖子。

(dǎ zhǒng liǎn chōng pàng zi)

• Translation: “Slap your face swollen to pose as a fat man.”
• Explanation: A critique of虚荣心 (vanity) and pretentiousness. It mocks those who fake success to impress others, warning of the physical and emotional toll of maintaining facades—a lesson for social media authenticity and financial prudence.

159. 挂羊头卖狗肉。

(guà yáng tóu mài gǒu ròu)

• Translation: “Hang a sheep’s head but sell dog meat.”
• Explanation: A condemnation of deceptive marketing or hypocrisy. Historically targeting dishonest merchants, it now applies to corporate greenwashing, political false promises, or cultural appropriation. Urges transparency and accountability in public and private sectors.

160. 光脚的不怕穿鞋的。

(guāng jiǎo de bù pà chuān xié de)

• Translation: “The barefooted fear not the shoe-wearing.”
• Explanation: This class-struggle metaphor asserts that those with nothing to lose hold power over the privileged. It inspires grassroots movements and risk-taking in entrepreneurship, while also cautioning against reckless disregard for consequences in pursuit of change.

161. 人为财死，鸟为食亡。

(rén wèi cái sǐ, niǎo wèi shí wáng)

• Translation: “Humans die for wealth; birds perish for food.”
• Explanation: This stark proverb critiques the destructive power of greed. Rooted in observations of human and animal behavior, it warns that unchecked desire for material gain leads to self-destruction. Modern applications include critiques of corporate corruption, environmental exploitation, and the psychological toll of consumerist cultures.

162. 君子爱财，取之有道。——《增广贤文》

(jūn zǐ ài cái, qǔ zhī yǒu dào — Zēngguǎng Xiánwén)

• Translation: “Noble people desire wealth but obtain it through righteous means.”
• Explanation: From Ming-era Expanded Virtues, this Confucian ideal balances ambition with ethics. It advocates integrity in business and governance, countering “ends justify means” mentalities. Modern relevance includes debates on ethical capitalism, anti-corruption laws, and sustainable economic practices.

163. 钱不是万能的，但没有钱是万万不能的。——现代俗语

(qián bú shì wàn néng de, dàn méi yǒu qián shì wàn wàn bù néng de — Xiàndài Súyǔ)

• Translation: “Money isn’t omnipotent, but without it, nothing is possible.”
• Explanation: This modern adage reflects China’s post-reform pragmatism. While acknowledging money’s necessity in healthcare, education, and social mobility, it subtly critiques materialism’s erosion of non-monetary values like family and community bonds.

164. 富不过三代。

(fù bù guò sān dài)

• Translation: “Wealth rarely lasts three generations.”
• Explanation: A sociological observation on generational cycles, this saying attributes wealth erosion to complacency, poor stewardship, or societal shifts. It informs discussions on inheritance laws, family business sustainability, and the psychological impact of privilege on descendants.

165. 贪多嚼不烂。

(tān duō jiáo bù làn)

• Translation: “Biting off more than you can chew leads to indigestion.”
• Explanation: A caution against overambition in personal or professional pursuits. It critiques multitasking culture and “growth at all costs” business models, advocating focus and moderation. Modern parallels include burnout prevention and sustainable development strategies.

166. 人心不足蛇吞象。

(rén xīn bù zú shé tūn xiàng)

• Translation: “Human greed is a snake trying to swallow an elephant.”
• Explanation: This vivid metaphor from Ming literature illustrates insatiable desire’s absurdity and danger. It warns against exploitative capitalism, environmental overconsumption, and personal greed, urging contentment and ecological mindfulness.

167. 金玉其外，败絮其中。——刘基《卖柑者言》

(jīn yù qí wài, bài xù qí zhōng — Liú Jī)

• Translation: “Gold and jade outside, rotten cotton within.”
• Explanation: Liu Ji’s Yuan Dynasty satire exposes hypocrisy in politics and commerce. It critiques modern “image over substance” trends—from social media personas to corporate greenwashing—advocating authenticity and transparency.

168. 贫贱不能移，富贵不能淫。——孟子

(pín jiàn bù néng yí, fù guì bù néng yín — Mèngzǐ)

• Translation: “Poverty cannot sway, wealth cannot corrupt.”
• Explanation: Mencius’s definition of moral integrity in “Gaozi I” (《告子上》) emphasizes consistency across life’s extremes. It inspires ethical leadership education and discussions on maintaining principles in unequal societies.

169. 财聚人散，财散人聚。——《大学》

(cái jù rén sàn, cái sàn rén jù — Dàxué)

• Translation: “Hoarding wealth scatters people; sharing it gathers them.”
• Explanation: From Great Learning (《大学》), this Confucian principle links generosity to social cohesion. Modern applications include profit-sharing business models, philanthropic leadership, and critiques of wealth inequality’s destabilizing effects.

170. 鱼和熊掌不可兼得。——《孟子》

(yú hé xióng zhǎng bù kě jiān dé — Mèngzǐ)

• Translation: “Fish and bear paws cannot both be had.”
• Explanation: Mencius’s dilemma from “Gaozi I” teaches the necessity of trade-offs. It informs decision-making frameworks in economics, environmental policy (e.g., development vs. conservation), and personal life choices about career, family, and ethics.

171. 一寸光阴一寸金，寸金难买寸光阴。——《增广贤文》

(yī cùn guāng yīn yī cùn jīn, cùn jīn nán mǎi cùn guāng yīn — Zēngguǎng Xiánwén)

• Translation: “An inch of time is an inch of gold, but gold cannot buy an inch of time.”
• Explanation: This Ming Dynasty proverb quantifies time as life’s most precious commodity. While material wealth can be accumulated, lost moments are irreplaceable. It resonates in modern time management theories, urging prioritization of meaningful experiences over material pursuits, and critiques cultures of overwork that sacrifice personal time for profit.

172. 明日复明日，明日何其多。——钱福《明日歌》

(míng rì fù míng rì, míng rì hé qí duō — Qián Fú)

• Translation: “Tomorrow follows tomorrow—how many tomorrows are there?”
• Explanation: From Qian Fu’s “Song of Tomorrow” (《明日歌》), this verse satirizes procrastination. It warns that deferring action leads to wasted potential, aligning with modern psychology on goal-setting and behavioral economics’ insights into present bias. Often quoted to motivate students and professionals to seize the day.

173. 盛年不重来，一日难再晨。——陶渊明

(shèng nián bù chóng lái, yī rì nán zài chén — Táo Yuānmíng)

• Translation: “Prime years never return; no morning recurs once gone.”
• Explanation: Tao Yuanming’s Jin Dynasty poem “Returning to Dwell in Gardens and Fields” (《归园田居》) laments time’s unidirectional flow. It inspires mindfulness practices and midlife reflection, urging individuals to cherish youth’s vigor while planning for sustainable aging in personal and societal contexts.

174. 花有重开日，人无再少年。——关汉卿

(huā yǒu chóng kāi rì, rén wú zài shào nián — Guān Hànqīng)

• Translation: “Flowers may bloom again; humans never regain youth.”
• Explanation: Yuan Dynasty playwright Guan Hanqing contrasts nature’s cycles with human mortality. This existential reflection critiques cultures obsessed with eternal youth, advocating acceptance of aging while promoting lifelong learning and intergenerational wisdom exchange.

175. 莫等闲，白了少年头，空悲切。——岳飞

(mò děng xián, bái le shào nián tóu, kōng bēi qiè — Yuè Fēi)

• Translation: “Do not idle away; lest your youth turns gray, leaving only regret.”
• Explanation: Yue Fei’s “Man Jiang Hong” (《满江红》) merges patriotic fervor with personal urgency. It inspires proactive citizenship and self-improvement, resonating in youth education programs and discussions about societal responsibility in times of crisis.

176. 劝君莫惜金缕衣，劝君惜取少年时。——杜秋娘

(quàn jūn mò xī jīn lǚ yī, quàn jūn xī qǔ shào nián shí — Dù Qiūniáng)

• Translation: “Do not cling to golden robes; cherish instead your youth.”
• Explanation: From Tang poetess Du Qiumiang’s “Golden Dress” (《金缕衣》), this prioritizes experiential wealth over material luxury. Modern interpretations apply it to minimalist lifestyles and the “experience economy,” urging investment in memories and skills rather than possessions.

177. 逝者如斯夫，不舍昼夜。——孔子

(shì zhě rú sī fú, bù shě zhòu yè — Kǒngzǐ)

• Translation: “Time flows like this river, ceasing neither day nor night.”
• Explanation: Confucius’s lament by the Yi River (《论语·子罕》) personifies time as an unstoppable force. It underpins philosophies of impermanence in East Asian thought, inspiring environmental conservation efforts and tech innovations to harness renewable energy as metaphors for “capturing” time’s flow.

178. 及时当勉励，岁月不待人。——陶渊明

(jí shí dāng miǎn lì, suì yuè bù dài rén — Táo Yuānmíng)

• Translation: “Act with urgency, for time waits for no one.”
• Explanation: Tao Yuanming’s “Miscellaneous Poems” (《杂诗》) merges Daoist acceptance with Confucian diligence. It’s a rallying cry for climate action, educational equity, and personal development, emphasizing that deferred efforts risk irreversible consequences in an accelerating world.

179. 流光容易把人抛，红了樱桃，绿了芭蕉。——蒋捷

(liú guāng róng yì bǎ rén pāo, hóng le yīng táo, lǜ le bā jiāo — Jiǎng Jié)

• Translation: “Time slips away, leaving cherries reddened and plantains greened.”
• Explanation: Song poet Jiang Jie’s “A Cutoff Song” (《一剪梅》) uses seasonal colors to symbolize life’s fleeting beauty. It inspires artistic expressions of transience, from Japanese mono no aware to modern photography, urging appreciation of ephemeral moments in fast-paced societies.

180. 少年易老学难成，一寸光阴不可轻。——朱熹

(shào nián yì lǎo xué nán chéng, yī cùn guāng yīn bù kě qīng — Zhū Xī)

• Translation: “Youth fades swiftly, mastery comes slowly; treat each moment as sacred.”
• Explanation: Neo-Confucian scholar Zhu Xi’s “Reflections on Things at Hand” (《近思录》) links time discipline to moral cultivation. Modern educators apply this to early childhood development theories, advocating immersive learning environments to maximize cognitive and ethical growth during formative years.

181. 山穷水尽疑无路，柳暗花明又一村。——陆游

(shān qióng shuǐ jìn yí wú lù, liǔ àn huā míng yòu yī cūn — Lù Yóu)

• Translation: “Mountains end, rivers vanish—no path in sight; willows shade, flowers glow—another village appears.”
• Explanation: From Lu You’s “Visiting Shanxi Village” (《游山西村》), this metaphor captures hope amid despair. It reflects Daoist optimism that crisis harbors renewal, inspiring resilience in personal struggles, business pivots, or societal reforms. Modern applications include mental health advocacy and crisis management strategies.

182. 沉舟侧畔千帆过，病树前头万木春。——刘禹锡

(chén zhōu cè pàn qiān fān guò, bìng shù qián tóu wàn mù chūn — Liú Yǔxī)

• Translation: “Beside a sunken ship, a thousand sails pass; before a dying tree, ten thousand saplings bloom.”
• Explanation: Liu Yuxi’s Tang poem “Rewriting the Lament” (《酬乐天扬州初逢席上见赠》) contrasts decay with renewal. It symbolizes historical progress and generational change, resonating in discussions about technological disruption, environmental regeneration, and societal evolution.

183. 长风破浪会有时，直挂云帆济沧海。——李白

(cháng fēng pò làng huì yǒu shí, zhí guà yún fān jì cāng hǎi — Lǐ Bái)

• Translation: “A day will come to ride the wind and waves, hoisting sails to cross the vast sea.”
• Explanation: Li Bai’s “Hard Roads” (《行路难》) blends ambition with cosmic faith. It encourages audacity in pursuing grand visions—quoted by entrepreneurs, explorers, and activists to frame challenges as stepping stones toward transformative achievements.

184. 冬天来了，春天还会远吗？——雪莱（中国化引用）

(dōng tiān lái le, chūn tiān hái huì yuǎn ma? — Xuě Lái)

• Translation: “If winter comes, can spring be far behind?”
• Explanation: Shelley’s line from “Ode to the West Wind”, popularized in China through translations, merges Western Romanticism with Chinese cyclical philosophy. It offers solace in hardship, symbolizing political hope during turbulent eras and personal perseverance in modern adversity.

185. 千磨万击还坚劲，任尔东西南北风。——郑板桥

(qiān mó wàn jī hái jiān jìng, rèn ěr dōng xī nán běi fēng — Zhèng Bǎnqiáo)

• Translation: “Tempered by countless blows, steadfast against winds from all directions.”
• Explanation: Zheng Banqiao’s poem on bamboo (《竹石》) praises resilience through flexibility. The bamboo bends but never breaks, a metaphor for adapting to challenges without losing core values—applied to leadership, cultural preservation, and personal integrity in globalized societies.

186. 野火烧不尽，春风吹又生。——白居易

(yě huǒ shāo bú jìn, chūn fēng chuī yòu shēng — Bái Jūyì)

• Translation: “Wildfires cannot burn it all; spring breezes revive the land.”
• Explanation: Bai Juyi’s “Farewell to Ancient Grass” (《赋得古原草送别》) celebrates nature’s regenerative power. It inspires environmental activism, post-conflict recovery narratives, and psychological resilience theories, framing destruction as a prelude to rebirth.

187. 天无绝人之路。

(tiān wú jué rén zhī lù)

• Translation: “Heaven never seals all paths.”
• Explanation: This folk proverb asserts that solutions exist even in dire straits. Rooted in Daoist trust in cosmic balance, it encourages creative problem-solving and hope during crises—cited in survival training, innovation workshops, and mental health counseling.

188. 塞翁失马，焉知非福。——《淮南子》

(sài wēng shī mǎ, yān zhī fēi fú — Huáinánzǐ)

• Translation: “Old Sai lost his horse—who could predict it wasn’t a blessing?”
• Explanation: From Huainanzi’s parable, this illustrates the unpredictability of fortune. Misfortune may hide opportunity, and vice versa. Modern applications include risk management, stoic philosophy, and reframing setbacks in career or personal growth.

189. 车到山前必有路，船到桥头自然直。

(chē dào shān qián bì yǒu lù, chuán dào qiáo tóu zì rán zhí)

• Translation: “When the cart reaches the mountain, a path appears; when the boat nears the bridge, it straightens naturally.”
• Explanation: This Daoist-leaning proverb advocates trust in emergent solutions. It critiques overplanning, urging adaptability and presence of mind—relevant to agile project management, improvisational creativity, and stress reduction techniques.

190. 大难不死，必有后福。

(dà nàn bù sǐ, bì yǒu hòu fú)

• Translation: “Surviving great calamity ensures future blessings.”
• Explanation: A blend of folk optimism and karmic belief, this saying reframes trauma as a precursor to renewal. Modern psychology’s post-traumatic growth theory echoes this, validating resilience-building and the search for meaning after adversity.

191. 君子之交淡如水。——《庄子》

(jūn zǐ zhī jiāo dàn rú shuǐ — Zhuāngzǐ)

• Translation: “The friendship of noble minds is as light as water.”
• Explanation: Zhuangzi contrasts profound bonds with superficial intensity. True friendship, like water, sustains life without ostentation. It critiques transactional relationships, advocating trust and simplicity—a principle applied to modern networking cultures and sustainable social ecosystems.

192. 近朱者赤，近墨者黑。——傅玄

(jìn zhū zhě chì, jìn mò zhě hēi — Fù Xuán)

• Translation: “Near vermilion, one turns red; near ink, one turns black.”
• Explanation: Fu Xuan’s Jin Dynasty proverb emphasizes environmental influence on character. It warns against toxic associations while encouraging mentorship and mindful community-building—relevant to education, workplace culture, and digital algorithm ethics shaping human behavior.

193. 画龙画虎难画骨，知人知面不知心。

(huà lóng huà hǔ nán huà gǔ, zhī rén zhī miàn bù zhī xīn)

• Translation: “Painting a dragon’s skin is easy; capturing its bones is hard. Knowing faces is easy; knowing hearts is not.”
• Explanation: This Ming Dynasty saying critiques superficial judgments. It urges patience in understanding others’ true intentions—applied to cybersecurity (e.g., phishing scams), interpersonal trust, and cross-cultural communication where appearances deceive.

194. 路遥知马力，日久见人心。

(lù yáo zhī mǎ lì, rì jiǔ jiàn rén xīn)

• Translation: “Long roads test a horse’s strength; time reveals a person’s heart.”
• Explanation: A Han Dynasty proverb valuing endurance over instant impressions. It guides hiring practices, relationship-building, and geopolitical alliances, emphasizing that true character emerges under sustained pressure or shared challenges.

195. 逢人且说三分话，未可全抛一片心。——《增广贤文》

(féng rén qiě shuō sān fēn huà, wèi kě quán pāo yī piàn xīn — Zēngguǎng Xiánwén)

• Translation: “To strangers, speak but three-tenths; never bare your full heart.”
• Explanation: Ming-era advice balancing prudence and authenticity. While cautioning against naivety, modern reinterpretations stress context-dependent vulnerability—applicable to online privacy, diplomatic discourse, and mental health boundaries.

196. 酒肉朋友易找，患难之交难逢。

(jiǔ ròu péng you yì zhǎo, huàn nàn zhī jiāo nán féng)

• Translation: “Feasting friends are plentiful; hardship companions are rare.”
• Explanation: This proverb distinguishes fair-weather friendships from loyal bonds. It inspires critiques of social media’s superficial connections and valorizes crisis-tested relationships in personal, professional, and societal solidarity movements.

197. 物以类聚，人以群分。——《易经》

(wù yǐ lèi jù, rén yǐ qún fēn — Yì Jīng)

• Translation: “Things cluster by kind; people group by affinity.”
• Explanation: From the I Ching, this observation underpins sociology and marketing. It explains cultural tribes, algorithmic echo chambers, and organizational dynamics, urging conscious curation of influences for personal growth and societal cohesion.

198. 有朋自远方来，不亦乐乎？——《论语》

(yǒu péng zì yuǎn fāng lái, bù yì lè hū? — Lúnyǔ)

• Translation: “Is it not joyous when friends come from afar?”
• Explanation: Confucius’s celebration of cross-cultural exchange and hospitality. This ideal informs China’s historical Silk Road ethos and modern global diplomacy, advocating openness to diversity as a source of collective enrichment.

199. 四海之内皆兄弟。——《论语》

(sì hǎi zhī nèi jiē xiōng dì — Lúnyǔ)

• Translation: “Within the Four Seas, all are brothers.”
• Explanation: Confucian universalism promoting global kinship. Quoted in humanitarian initiatives and multicultural policies, it challenges xenophobia and inspires movements for refugee rights, climate justice, and international cooperation.

200. 多个朋友多条路，多个冤家多堵墙。

(duō gè péng you duō tiáo lù, duō gè yuān jiā duō dǔ qiáng)

• Translation: “More friends, more paths; more foes, more walls.”
• Explanation: A pragmatic summary of social capital’s power. It quantifies relationship-building as strategic investment—applied to business networking, conflict resolution, and community resilience against systemic inequities.

🌟 200 Pearls of Chinese Wisdom: Illuminating Life, Anchoring the Soul. Spanning three millennia, from the whispered verses of plants in the Book of Songs to Lu Xun’s incisive ink, these words are not just echoes of history—they are mirrors reflecting our lives today.

From Confucian virtues to Zen enlightenment, from Li Bai’s euphoric verses to Eileen Chang’s piercing gaze—these 200 timeless lines are a lifetime’s compass. Embedded within them lies the romanticism, resilience, and philosophical openness etched into the Chinese soul.

“True warriors dare to confront life’s bleakness”—if you’ve read this far, you’ve already become your own hero.

• Which line shattered your defenses?
• Which truth untangled your heart’s knots?
• What’s your life motto?

Hit “Share” and let millions witness: Our culture never ages—it remains eternally youthful.

💬 Your reflections could spark the next millennium’s wisdom. The comment section awaits your legacy!