Chinese Idiom: 忧心如焚 (You Xin Ru Fen)
English Translation: Heart filled with worry like being burned by fire
pīn yīn: yōu xīn rú fén
Idiom Meaning: This idiom metaphorically expresses intense anxiety or deep concern, suggesting that one’s heart feels as though it is on fire due to worry.
Historical Source: The idiom originates from Shijing (《诗经》), specifically from the poem “Jie Nan Shan” (《截南山》).
Idiom Story:
The context of this idiom traces back to the decline of the Zhou Dynasty, particularly during the reign of the tyrant King Li of Zhou. After the founding of the Zhou Dynasty by King Wu, the dynasty gradually deteriorated over the years. King Li surrounded himself with sycophants and implemented harsh policies that exploited the people, leading to widespread resentment and ultimately a rebellion that forced him from power.
Following King Li, King Xuan of Zhou ascended the throne, aspiring to revitalize the kingdom. However, his frequent military campaigns weakened the state further, exacerbating class conflicts. This was followed by the reign of King You, who was known for his debauchery and mismanagement. He sidelined talented officials in favor of a powerful minister named Yin, who exercised substantial control over the government, leading to the kingdom’s decline and impending doom.
In this turbulent period, a poet who claimed to be a descendant of a noble family composed a poem titled “Jie Nan Shan.” The poem consists of ten sections, each addressing different aspects of the kingdom’s plight under the corrupt rule of the Yin family. The first chapter reflects on the public’s despair and the looming danger to the state:
First Chapter Excerpt:
“High atop the southern mountain, piled high with stones.
The powerful minister Yin, the people gaze upon you.
My heart is filled with burning worry, unable to jest or speak freely.
The state is nearing its doom; why do you not take notice?”
In this excerpt, the poet laments the dismal state of the nation and the indifference of the minister, capturing the essence of worry and despair. The phrase “忧心如焚” (you xin ru fen) emerges from this sentiment, illustrating profound anxiety about the nation’s fate.
Over time, “忧心如焚” has come to symbolize deep concern and distress, often used to describe situations that provoke significant worry.