Xi Er Gong Ting – Wash Ears to Listen Respectfully

Xi Er Gong Ting Wash Ears To Listen Respectfully

Chinese Idiom: 洗耳恭听 (Xi Er Gong Ting)

English Translation: Wash Ears to Listen Respectfully

pīn yīn: xǐ ěr gōng tīng

Idiom Meaning: This idiom signifies listening attentively and respectfully to valuable advice or beautiful music. It conveys a sense of humility and eagerness to learn.

Historical Source: The Biography of High Scholars, Xu You (晋代皇甫谧的《高士传·许由》)

Idiom Story:

In ancient times, the sage Emperor Yao wished to abdicate the throne in favor of Xu You, a man known for his high-mindedness and disinterest in politics. However, Xu You refused Yao’s offer and chose instead to escape to Jishan Mountain to live in seclusion.

Upon hearing of Xu You’s retreat, Yao respected him even more and sent numerous envoys to invite him back, offering him the position of “Governor of the Nine Provinces.” This suggestion only further disgusted Xu You, who immediately ran to the banks of the Ying River to wash his ears.

At that moment, his friend Chao Fu, who also lived in seclusion nearby, happened to be leading a calf to drink water. Seeing Xu You at the river, he asked why he was washing his ears. Xu You explained the situation and said, “How could I not quickly wash my ears after hearing such words?”

To this, Chao Fu laughed derisively and replied, “Who told you to flaunt yourself out there and gain notoriety? Now you’ve caused trouble, and you want to wash your ears? Don’t sully the mouth of my little calf!” With that, he led the calf upstream and left.

This legend is known as “Washing Ears at Jishan.” Over time, the meaning of “washing ears” shifted from Xu You’s intent to cleanse himself of unwelcome words to a more general idea of preparing oneself to receive knowledge or advice.

Thus, the idiom “洗耳恭听” emerged, signifying a respectful and earnest attitude toward listening to others.

Scroll to Top