Xian You Hou Le – First worry, then enjoy

Xian You Hou Le First Worry, Then Enjoy

Chinese Idiom: 先忧后乐 (Xian You Hou Le)

English Translation: First worry, then enjoy

pīn yīn: xiān yōu hòu lè

Idiom Meaning: This idiom signifies the importance of caring for the suffering of the people before pursuing personal happiness. It can also imply that one must endure hardship and labor in order to reap future rewards and comfort.

Historical Source: “Song History” (《宋史·范仲淹传》) and “Record of the Pavilion of Yueyang” (《岳阳楼记》)

Idiom Story:

Fan Zhongyan (范仲淹), a prominent figure from Wu County (now Suzhou, Jiangsu) during the Northern Song Dynasty, faced significant hardships in his early life. After his father passed away when he was just two years old, his mother remarried, leaving him to grow up in a less favorable environment. This experience instilled in him a strong determination to succeed, and he dedicated himself to studying diligently.

At the age of twenty-three, he tearfully said goodbye to his mother and traveled far to the famous Ying Tianfu Academy (now in Shangqiu, Henan) to pursue his education. During his studies, he lived a frugal life, subsisting mainly on thin porridge to avoid distractions and maximize his study time. In winter, he would freeze the porridge into blocks, only to thaw and eat them as needed.

His perseverance and frugality deeply moved his classmates. One classmate, the son of a local official, attempted to assist him by bringing him lavish food. Initially, Fan refused, stating that he was accustomed to his simple diet and feared that indulging would spoil him. Eventually, he reluctantly accepted the food but chose not to eat it, demonstrating his commitment to his principles.

After becoming a successful scholar and official during Emperor Zhenzong’s reign, Fan Zhongyan maintained a modest lifestyle, never forgetting his humble beginnings. He was known for his integrity and concern for the people’s well-being, often advocating for reforms to alleviate suffering.

In the face of widespread famine and suffering in the Jianghuai region during a severe drought, Fan Zhongyan petitioned the emperor for aid. When the emperor ignored his requests, he pressed on, insisting that the emperor consider the plight of the people. This persistence ultimately led him to assist in disaster relief efforts.

Fan Zhongyan’s experiences and ideals culminated in his famous phrase: “先天下之忧而忧,后天下之乐而乐,” which translates to “First worry about the troubles of the world, then enjoy its pleasures.” This belief encapsulates his commitment to public service and the importance of prioritizing the needs of others.

As a result of his life and actions, the idiom “先忧后乐” emerged, reflecting the values of selflessness and the idea that enduring hardship can lead to future joy and prosperity.

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