Chinese Idiom: 民为邦本 (Min Wei Bang Ben)
English Translation: Min Wei Bang Ben – The People Are the Foundation of the State
pīn yīn: mín wéi bāng běn
Idiom Meaning: This idiom emphasizes that the well-being of a country depends fundamentally on its people. It underscores the importance of caring for and valuing the populace as the cornerstone of national stability and prosperity.
Historical Source: 《尚书·五子之歌》 (The Book of Documents: Song of the Five Sons).
Idiom Story:
During the Xia Dynasty, Tai Kang (太康), the grandson of the legendary Emperor Yu (禹), was known for his indulgent and irresponsible rule. He neglected state affairs and spent over a hundred days hunting near the Luo River, far from the capital.
Amidst this neglect, a rebellion broke out led by Yi (羿) from the state of Youqiong (有穷国). Tai Kang’s five brothers, with their mother, were forced to flee the capital in their chariots to escape the turmoil.
In their distress, Tai Kang’s brothers composed a song reflecting the teachings of their ancestor, Emperor Yu. The lyrics of one of the songs conveyed a critical message: “The people must be cherished and never despised, for the people are the foundation of the state. When the foundation is solid, the state will be secure.”
This song highlighted the vital lesson that the strength and stability of a state are built upon the welfare and respect of its people. From this historical context, the idiom “民为邦本” has come to symbolize the principle that the well-being of a nation is intrinsically linked to the treatment and consideration of its people.
