Chinese Idiom: 两袖清风 (Liang Xiu Qing Feng)
English Translation: Two sleeves of clear wind
pīn yīn: liǎng xiù qīng fēng
Idiom Meaning: This idiom symbolizes integrity and honesty, reflecting a person’s moral character that is untainted by corruption or greed.
Historical Source: The History of Ming (明史) – Biography of Yu Qian.
Idiom Story:
The widely loved poem Shi Hui Yin (《石灰吟》) by the Ming Dynasty national hero Yu Qian captures the essence of this idiom. The poem expresses his determination to maintain integrity and purity, comparing himself to lime that endures intense heat and hardship:
“千锤万凿出深山，烈火焚烧若等闲； 粉身碎骨浑不怕，要留清白在人间。”
(Translation: “Chiseled and hammered from deep in the mountain, the fierce fire burns as if it’s nothing;
I fear not the shattering of my body, as long as I can leave my integrity in the world.”)
Written during his youth, this poem reflects Yu Qian’s dedication to preserving his moral character, even in the face of adversity.
Later in his career, Yu Qian served as a governor in Shanxi and Henan, maintaining his commitment to honesty and integrity. During his tenure, a powerful eunuch named Wang Zhen exploited his position, accepting bribes and behaving tyrannically. Many local officials presented him with gifts of gold, silver, and jewels to seek advancement, fearing retribution if they did not comply.
Disapproving of Wang Zhen’s corrupt practices, Yu Qian resolved to remain incorruptible. When preparing for a trip to the capital, his concerned colleagues advised him to take some local specialties as gifts, such as silk, mushrooms, or incense, to win 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, mushrooms, and incense, meant for the people, can become a disaster;
With nothing but the breeze in my sleeves, I avoid gossip from the common folk.”)
In this poem, Yu Qian emphasizes that using local resources to curry favor with superiors would only harm the people. He decided to enter the capital empty-handed to prevent any rumors from circulating among the public.
With determination, Yu Qian set off for the capital, embodying the spirit of “两袖清风.” His integrity resonated with the people, leading to the idiom that represents the purity of character and the refusal to be swayed by corruption.
