
Chinese Idiom: 夜以继日 (Ye Yi Ji Ri)
English Translation: Night following day
pīn yīn: yè yǐ jì rì
Idiom Meaning: This idiom metaphorically describes working tirelessly, day and night, without a break.
Historical Source: “Mencius” (《孟子 · 离娄》).
Idiom Story:
The idiom has its origins in the historical figure Ji Dan, also known as the Duke of Zhou, who was a prominent politician during the early Western Zhou Dynasty. He was the fourth son of King Wen of Zhou and played a significant role in helping his brother, King Wu of Zhou, overthrow the Shang Dynasty and establish the Zhou Dynasty.
Ji Dan was highly regarded for his virtue and moral integrity. According to legend, when King Wu fell gravely ill and was on the verge of death, Ji Dan was deeply anxious. He wrote a prayer, beseeching heaven to allow him to take the king’s place in suffering, even expressing his willingness to die for the king.
After King Wu’s death, the young King Cheng ascended to the throne, and Ji Dan was appointed as regent. He was dedicated to assisting the young king in governing the state effectively. His commitment to the nation’s welfare was so profound that he often pondered important matters throughout the day and night. As described, he would “raise his head in thought, working day and night; when he thought of a good solution, he would sit and wait for dawn,” eager to implement his ideas for the benefit of the country.
This story of Ji Dan exemplifies selfless dedication and tireless effort, encapsulated in the idiom “夜以继日,” which highlights the importance of hard work and commitment in serving a greater cause.