Chinese Idiom: 心腹之患 (Xin Fu Zhi Huan)
English Translation: A grave internal threat
English Translation: A grave internal threat
pīn yīn: xīn fù zhī huàn
Idiom Meaning: This idiom refers to a serious problem or threat that is hidden within an organization or a situation, especially one that poses a significant risk to its core or main interests.
Historical Source: Zuo’s Commentary on the Spring and Autumn Annals (《左传·哀公十一年》)
Idiom Story
The idiom “心腹之患” originates from a historical episode involving Wu Zixu and King Fu Chai of the Wu State during the late Spring and Autumn period.
Wu Zixu, a loyal and capable minister, had helped King Fu Chai strengthen the Wu State and defeat the Yue State, capturing its king, Gou Jian, who was later released. Despite the victory, Wu Zixu viewed the Yue State as a serious and ongoing threat, or “心腹之疾” (a disease in the heart or a deep-seated trouble). He believed that even though Yue appeared submissive, it harbored deep-seated animosity and ambition to seek revenge.
Wu Zixu advised King Fu Chai to deal with the Yue State decisively and eliminate the threat while it was still manageable. He warned that neglecting this issue and focusing on northern expansion would be dangerous. Wu Zixu’s predictions were grounded in his belief that allowing Yue to remain a potential threat could lead to the downfall of Wu.
However, King Fu Chai ignored Wu Zixu’s warnings, choosing instead to trust the flattering advice of courtiers and pursue his ambitions in the north. Wu Zixu, realizing that his warnings were not heeded, took precautionary measures for his family and eventually met a tragic end when Fu Chai, misled by his advisors, had him executed.
Ultimately, Wu Zixu’s fears came true. The Yue State, led by Gou Jian, eventually rose again, defeated Wu, and led to the fall of the Wu State in 473 BC. The phrase “心腹之患” thus came to symbolize a serious internal threat or hidden danger that could undermine an organization or state from within.
