Chinese Idiom: 终南捷径 (Zhong Nan Jie Jing)
English Translation: A shortcut in Zhongnan Mountain
pīn yīn: zhōng nán jié jìng
Idiom Meaning: Refers to a convenient route for seeking fame and fortune. It can also mean an easy path to achieve a goal.
Historical Source: From Liu Su’s New Sayings of the Tang Dynasty (《大唐新语》).
Idiom Story:
The idiom “终南捷径” originates from a story during the Tang Dynasty. Lu Zangyong chose to live in seclusion on Zhongnan Mountain, located south of Chang’an, and he refrained from pursuing a political career. However, during the reign of Emperor Zhongzong, he unexpectedly attained a significant government position.
One day, a Taoist priest from Tiantai Mountain named Sima Chengzhen was summoned to the capital, Chang’an, by Emperor Ruizong. As he prepared to return home, Lu Zangyong pointed to Zhongnan Mountain and said, “There are many good opportunities in this area; why venture far away?”
Sima Chengzhen responded leisurely, “In my opinion, this is merely a path for seeking official titles.” Upon hearing this, Lu Zangyong felt a sense of shame, realizing that his secluded life might have limited his ambitions.
This exchange highlights the idea that while shortcuts may seem appealing, they can also represent a superficial approach to achieving one’s goals. The idiom “终南捷径” thus serves as a reminder of the potential pitfalls of seeking easy routes in life, particularly in the pursuit of success and recognition.
