Feng Gong Shou Fa – Uphold Public Duty and Observe the Law

Feng Gong Shou Fa Uphold Public Duty And Observe The Law

Chinese Idiom: 奉公守法 (Feng Gong Shou Fa)

English Translation: Uphold Public Duty and Observe the Law

pīn yīn: fèng gōng shǒu fǎ

Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes the act of handling public affairs impartially, without violating the law or engaging in favoritism. It emphasizes integrity in governance and adherence to legal principles.

Historical Source: Records of the Grand Historian (《史记》), specifically in the biography of Lian Po and Lin Xiangru.

Idiom Story:

The biography of Lian Po and Lin Xiangru also includes notable figures such as Zhao She and his son Zhao Kuo, as well as Li Mu. One of the prominent characters is Zhao She, who began as a tax official in Zhao State, responsible for collecting land rents. Due to his military talent and the recommendation of Prince Pingyuan Zhao Sheng, he was promoted and eventually became a general in Zhao State.

During his tenure as a tax official, Zhao She faced a situation where Prince Pingyuan’s household refused to pay their taxes. Zhao She decided to enforce the law and held the responsible officials accountable, leading to the execution of nine individuals from the prince’s household. This action incited the prince’s wrath, and he sought to punish Zhao She for his strict adherence to the law.

Zhao She defended his actions, stating to Prince Pingyuan, “You, as a noble of Zhao, should not condone your household’s defiance of the law. If you allow your family to disregard the law, the authority of the law will weaken. A weakened law leads to a weakened state, inviting invasions from other lords. When the state is at risk, how will you maintain your wealth and status? Conversely, if those in power, like you, uphold public duty and observe the law, both public and private affairs will be managed fairly. This will strengthen the state, ensuring that you, as a noble, are respected by all.”

The prince found Zhao She’s reasoning compelling and reported it to King Zhao, advocating for Zhao She’s wisdom and integrity, which resulted in Zhao She receiving further recognition and authority.

The phrase “奉公如法则上下平” (If one upholds public duty according to the law, both public and private matters will be justly managed) was later simplified and evolved into the idiom “奉公守法,” signifying the importance of integrity and adherence to the law in governance.

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