Chinese Idiom: 贫贱之交 (Pin Jian Zhi Jiao)
English Translation: Friendship formed in poverty
pīn yīn: pín jiàn zhī jiāo
Idiom Meaning: This idiom refers to close friendships formed during times of poverty or hardship. It highlights the value of true friendship that persists through difficulties and challenges.
Historical Source: Book of the Later Han (《后汉书 · 宋弘传》).
Idiom Story:
In the early Eastern Han dynasty, there lived a knowledgeable and upright man named Song Hong. He was highly regarded by Emperor Guangwu of Han (Liu Xiu) and was appointed as a high-ranking official. When Liu Xiu’s sister, Princess Huyang, lost her husband, he considered finding her a new partner among the court officials.
The princess expressed her admiration for Song Hong among the many candidates, but there was one complication: Song Hong was already married. To gauge Song Hong’s feelings, Liu Xiu summoned him and posed a question, suggesting that wealth and status often change one’s social circle, stating, “There is a saying: ‘One easily finds wealthy friends when rich, and a new wife when prosperous. Isn’t this human nature?'”
In response, Song Hong firmly asserted, “I have heard that friendships formed in poverty should not be forgotten, and one should not abandon the wife who has shared hardships with him.” This reflects his belief that true friends and partners who stand by you in tough times deserve loyalty and respect.
Impressed by Song Hong’s unwavering commitment to his principles and relationships, Liu Xiu abandoned the idea of persuading him to abandon his wife for the princess.
Thus, “贫贱之交” became a lasting reminder of the importance of loyalty and integrity in friendships forged during difficult times, emphasizing that such bonds are invaluable and should be cherished.
