Chinese Idiom: 万死不辞 (Wan Si Bu Ci)
English Translation: Willing to sacrifice one’s life a thousand times
pīn yīn: wàn sǐ bù cí
Idiom Meaning: This idiom expresses an extreme dedication and willingness to undertake a task or mission, regardless of the personal cost, including death.
Historical Source: Romance of the Three Kingdoms (《三国演义》), Chapter 8.
Idiom Story:
During the late Eastern Han Dynasty, political turmoil and corruption were rampant. Dong Zhuo, a powerful warlord who seized control as Chancellor, ruled with cruelty and oppression. His adoptive son, Lü Bu, was known for his martial prowess and was complicit in many of Dong Zhuo’s ruthless deeds.
In a dramatic turn of events, Dong Zhuo held a banquet where he publicly executed a high-ranking official, Zhang Wen, to intimidate others. The scene struck fear into the hearts of those present. Among them was Wang Yun, an elder statesman who was deeply distressed by the injustice and the state of the nation.
Returning home, Wang Yun lamented the situation and was comforted by his adopted daughter, Diao Chan. She expressed her sorrow over her foster father’s distress and pledged her willingness to sacrifice her life to aid his cause. Moved by her devotion, Wang Yun decided to employ Diao Chan in a scheme to remove Dong Zhuo.
Wang Yun orchestrated a plan involving a beauty trap to drive a wedge between Dong Zhuo and Lü Bu. He first entertained Lü Bu with a lavish feast, during which Diao Chan, dressed splendidly, captivated Lü Bu, who became infatuated with her. Wang Yun then used Diao Chan’s beauty to gain Dong Zhuo’s favor by presenting her as a new concubine.
The plan succeeded in creating discord. Lü Bu, jealous and enraged, confronted Wang Yun about the betrayal. Wang Yun pretended to be surprised, leading Lü Bu to act impulsively. Lü Bu’s anger eventually drove him to kill Dong Zhuo, with Wang Yun’s encouragement and support.
The phrase “万死不辞” originates from Diao Chan’s vow to serve and sacrifice her life if necessary, showcasing her unwavering commitment to the cause. Over time, this idiom has come to represent any extreme dedication to a mission or cause, demonstrating one’s readiness to face any danger or sacrifice their life without hesitation.
