📖 Meaning
A metaphor for benevolence and righteousness. It describes dwelling in benevolence in one's heart and acting according to righteousness in one's conduct. The idiom emphasizes that virtue is both a home to inhabit and a road to follow.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from 'Mencius' (《孟子·离娄上》), a foundational Confucian text from the Warring States period. Mencius declared that benevolence (仁) is the peaceful dwelling of humanity, and righteousness (义) is the correct path of humanity. He lamented that people abandon this peaceful dwelling without living in it and forsake the correct path without following it, calling it tragic.
💡 Example Usage
他一生恪守安宅正路，以仁义待人，深得乡邻敬重。
He adhered to the path of benevolence and righteousness throughout his life, treating others with virtue, and earned the deep respect of his neighbors.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 安宅正路
- Pinyin: ān zhái zhèng lù
- Literal Translation: peaceful dwelling, correct path
- Category: Morality
- Characters: 4