Chinese Idiom: 清风两袖 (Qing Feng Liang Xiu)
English Translation: Two sleeves of clear wind
pīn yīn: qīng fēng liǎng xiù
Idiom Meaning: This idiom is often used to describe a person’s integrity and uprightness, reflecting a clean and honest demeanor.
Historical Source: From the Ming Dynasty poet Yu Qian’s poem 入京 (Entering the Capital).
Idiom Story:
Yu Qian was a prominent figure in the Ming Dynasty, known for his integrity and dedication to public service. From a young age, he received a solid education and was inspired by historical figures like Su Wu, Zhuge Liang, and Wen Tianxiang, who selflessly dedicated themselves to their country and people.
As Yu Qian matured, he developed a strong ambition to serve his nation and the common people. He expressed this sentiment in a poem titled 咏煤炭 (Ode to Coal), where he likened himself to coal, symbolizing his desire to work tirelessly for the benefit of the people. The latter half of the poem conveys his commitment:
鼎彝元赖生成力，铁石犹存死后心。
但愿苍生俱饱暖，不辞辛苦出山林。
Translation:
The cooking vessels rely on coal for their heat,
Though the iron and stone have vanished, their spirit remains.
I wish for the people to be warm and well-fed,
Willing to toil tirelessly for their sake.
This excerpt reflects his belief that, like coal, he could provide warmth and sustenance to others, emphasizing the value of selfless service.
During his tenure as a government official, Yu Qian was known for his commitment to the welfare of the people. He held various positions under the reigns of Emperors Xuanzong, Yingzong, and Daizong, consistently maintaining his integrity and cleanliness in governance. Notably, while serving as the governor of Henan, he confronted the corruption of the powerful eunuch Wang Zhen, who abused his authority and engaged in bribery.
Whenever Yu Qian traveled to the capital, local officials often advised him to bring gifts to curry favor with Wang Zhen. Despite their concerns, Yu Qian remained resolute. One day, as he prepared for another trip to the capital, he was urged to take gifts such as silk or incense to win the eunuch’s favor.
In response, Yu Qian laughed heartily and composed a poem:
绢帕麻菇及线香，
本资民用反为殃；
清风两袖朝天去，
免得闾阎话短长。
Translation:
Silk handkerchiefs, hemp mushrooms, and incense,
These should benefit the people, not cause them harm;
With sleeves of clear wind, I go to the court,
To avoid the gossip of the common folk.
In this poem, he emphasizes that bringing gifts would only burden the common people, and he would not be subject to public scrutiny. With a firm spirit, he set off for the capital, proudly unburdened by material possessions.
The idiom 清风两袖 has since come to symbolize the ideals of integrity and moral uprightness, representing a character that remains untainted by corruption or greed, and serves as a reminder of the importance of selflessness and public duty in leadership.
