Chinese Idiom: 妄自菲薄 (Wang Zi Fei Bo)
English Translation: Foolishly belittling oneself
pīn yīn: wàng zì fěi bó
Idiom Meaning: This idiom describes an excessive sense of self-deprecation and an inferiority complex, indicating a tendency to undervalue oneself.
Historical Source: 《前出师表》 (Memorial on the Expedition) by Zhuge Liang, the Prime Minister of Shu during the Three Kingdoms period.
Idiom Story:
In his Memorial on the Expedition, Zhuge Liang advised Liu Shan, the emperor of Shu, to open the channels of communication, be discerning, and adopt beneficial opinions from his ministers. He emphasized the importance of listening to diverse views and encouraged Liu Shan to be proactive and self-motivated in fostering confidence in the unification cause.
Zhuge Liang wrote:
“Your Majesty should indeed broaden your ears to hear the opinions of your ministers, to carry forward the virtues left by the late Emperor, and to invigorate the courage of worthy men. It is inappropriate to foolishly belittle oneself, drawing illogical analogies that block the path of loyal and candid advice.”
The essence of this passage is that Liu Shan should actively seek and value the advice of his ministers, honoring the legacy of his predecessor and uplifting the morale of capable individuals. He should avoid unjustly underestimating himself and making inappropriate comparisons that could obstruct the loyal advice from his subjects.
As a result, this expression highlights the dangers of self-deprecation and encourages individuals to recognize their own worth and capabilities.
