Chinese Idiom: 任劳任怨 (Ren Lao Ren Yuan)
English Translation: Willing to endure hardship and accept blame
pīn yīn: rèn láo rèn yuàn
Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes a person who is willing to work hard without complaint and does not fear being blamed or criticized.
Historical Source: “Book of Han” (《汉书·石显传》)
Idiom Story:
In December of 49 BC, Emperor Yuan of Han, Liu Shi, ascended to the throne, and the real power in the court was held by the powerful eunuch Shi Xian. Any official matter needed to be conveyed through him to the emperor. Shi Xian was known for his cruelty; any official who disagreed with him or expressed even a slight grievance would suffer consequences.
A few upright ministers could not tolerate Shi Xian’s tyranny and reported his wrongdoings to Emperor Yuan. Shi Xian, harboring resentment, sought to eliminate his opponents through various means, resulting in many being killed or imprisoned.
Fearing that his misdeeds might come to the emperor’s attention, Shi Xian approached Emperor Yuan, feigning humility and sorrow. He lamented, “Your Majesty, you have placed great trust in me by giving me an important position. However, many ministers are jealous of me. I truly cannot please everyone; I cannot bear the blame of the world. Please allow me to resign and return to the palace to do menial tasks; I will not complain.”
His flattering words only served to increase Emperor Yuan’s trust in him. Instead of dismissing him, the emperor rewarded him generously.
From this story, the idiom “任劳任怨” emerged, symbolizing a dedication to work hard and an acceptance of blame without complaint. It highlights the virtue of selflessness and commitment in the face of adversity.
