Chinese Idiom: 九死一生 (Jiu Si Yi Sheng)
English Translation: Nine Lives
pīn yīn: jiǔ sǐ yī shēng
Idiom Meaning: Refers to using an opponent’s arguments to criticize or refute them. “操” (cāo) means “to wield” and “戈” (gē) means “a spear” or “weapon.”
Historical Source: Li Sao (离骚) by Qu Yuan, Warring States period
Idiom Story: The idiom “九死一生” (jiǔ sǐ yī shēng) is rooted in the life and poetry of Qu Yuan, a renowned poet and statesman of the late Warring States period from the Chu State. Born around 340 BCE, Qu Yuan was a member of the Chu royal family and served as a minister during the reign of King Huai of Chu.
Qu Yuan was known for his strong principles and progressive ideas, which initially gained the favor of King Huai. He advocated for internal reforms and external alliances to strengthen Chu against the powerful state of Qin. However, his policies antagonized the entrenched aristocracy and threatened their interests. The political machinations and betrayal led to Qu Yuan being exiled.
In 298 BCE, after the death of King Huai and the succession of King Qingxiang, who was more accommodating to Qin, Qu Yuan was sent into permanent exile in the southern regions of Chu, away from the capital Yingdu (modern Jingzhou). During his exile, Qu Yuan witnessed the decline of his homeland and was deeply distressed.
One day, while lamenting by the Miluo River, he expressed his sorrow and frustration to a fisherman who questioned his presence. The fisherman advised him to adapt to the corrupt times to avoid personal harm, but Qu Yuan vehemently refused, declaring his unwillingness to compromise his integrity. He preferred to face death rather than sully his principles.
In 277 BCE, Qu Yuan threw himself into the Miluo River and drowned. His final poem, Li Sao (“The Lament”), reflects his patriotic fervor and the trials he endured. The line “虽九死其犹未悔” (suī jiǔ sǐ qí yóu wèi huǐ) translates to “even if I die nine times, I would not regret,” capturing his unwavering dedication and resilience.
The phrase “九死一生” (nine lives) evolved from this line, symbolizing extreme peril and the struggle to survive life-threatening situations, echoing Qu Yuan’s heroic and tragic perseverance.
