Chinese Idiom: 拨乱反正 (Bo Luan Fan Zheng)
English Translation: Restore order by correcting chaos
pīn yīn: bō luàn fǎn zhèng
Idiom Meaning: This idiom refers to the act of restoring what has been distorted or disrupted back to its correct state. It can also metaphorically mean returning things to their original nature or principles.
Historical Source: From Shiji · Taishi Gong’s Preface (《史记·太史公自序》).
Idiom Story:
The idiom “拨乱反正” is derived from the writings of the historian Sima Qian, known as Taishi Gong, in his preface to Shiji (Records of the Grand Historian). In this preface, Sima Qian discusses the purpose and process of writing Shiji, emphasizing the importance of historical documentation and moral clarity.
Sima Qian highly praises the classic text Chunqiu (Spring and Autumn Annals), asserting that it plays a crucial role in elucidating the principles of governance from ancient leaders like Yu the Great, Tang of Shang, and King Wen of Zhou. He argues that Chunqiu not only outlines ethical norms and distinctions between right and wrong but also celebrates virtue while condemning vice.
In his view, the text serves as a guide to restoring order in chaotic times, stating that to rectify a disordered world, there is no better resource than Chunqiu. He remarks on the vast content of the text, which encapsulates the rise and fall of states, illustrating the fundamental truths about the cycles of existence and governance.
Thus, the phrase “拨乱反正” emerged as a succinct expression of Sima Qian’s belief that clarity in history can help restore societal order and moral integrity. It signifies the endeavor to correct past mistakes and bring about a return to righteousness and proper conduct in society.
