Chinese Idiom: 拔山扛鼎 (Ba Shan Kang Ding)
English Translation: To lift mountains and carry tripods
pīn yīn: bá shān káng dǐng
Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes someone with immense strength or power.
Historical Source: Xiang Yu’s poem in “The Song of Gai Xia” (《垓下歌》).
Idiom Story:
Xiang Yu, known as Xiang Yushi, was a prominent figure during the late Qin dynasty and hailed from Xiang County (now Xuyi County, Jiangsu Province). After his father’s death when he was young, he was raised by his uncle, Xiang Liang. Xiang Yu came from a family of military leaders and held aspirations of avenging his family after the fall of the Chu state to the Qin dynasty.
From a young age, Xiang Yu was exceptionally strong, reportedly capable of lifting a tripod (a heavy bronze vessel used in ancient China) and having a physique measuring around eight feet tall. His uncle tried to educate him in writing and combat, but Xiang Yu was dismissive, believing that knowledge was less valuable than martial skills that could protect him from armies.
In 209 BC, after the rebellion led by Chen Sheng and Wu Guang, Xiang Yu and his uncle joined the uprising against the Qin dynasty, gradually amassing a formidable force. After his uncle’s death, Xiang Yu became the leader of the army.
Following the overthrow of the Qin dynasty, Xiang Yu engaged in a protracted struggle against Liu Bang, who was clever in recruitment and strategy. Despite Xiang Yu’s initial advantages, he suffered defeats over time.
By 202 BC, Xiang Yu found himself cornered at Gaixia (now southeast of Lingbi County, Anhui) with dwindling forces and resources. One winter night, while contemplating his dire situation in his tent, he heard the Han army singing songs of Chu, which startled him. This led him to realize that Liu Bang had likely conquered Chu.
Feeling despondent, Xiang Yu chose to drink and lament his fate alongside his beloved concubine, Yu Ji, and his cherished horse, named Zhuo. He composed a poignant song expressing his despair:
With strength to lift mountains and a spirit that overwhelms the world,
Yet the timing is unfavorable, and Zhuo cannot gallop.
What can be done if Zhuo cannot gallop?
Yu, oh Yu, what shall I do with you?
The lyrics reflect his immense strength and noble spirit, contrasting it with the inevitability of his defeat. He sang this song repeatedly, shedding tears as he and Yu Ji mourned their impending fate.
The next day, as Xiang Yu attempted to break out and flee southward, he reached the banks of the Wu River (now in the northeast of Anhui Province) and ultimately took his own life.
This idiom, “拔山扛鼎,” thus embodies the idea of extraordinary strength and the tragic downfall of a powerful figure. It is often used to describe individuals who possess remarkable physical prowess or an indomitable spirit.
