📖 Meaning
A metaphor for steadfast and unwavering loyalty or resolve. It compares the heart to a stone that cannot be rolled or moved, signifying an unchanging determination that external forces cannot sway. The idiom conveys firm moral commitment that remains constant regardless of circumstances.
📜 Origin Story
The idiom originates from the Classic of Poetry (诗经), specifically the ode 'Bai Zhou' (柏舟) in the Bei Feng (邶风) section, dating to the Zhou Dynasty. The original line reads, 'My heart is not a stone; it cannot be rolled away' (我心匪石，不可转也). The poem expresses a person's resolute moral stance that cannot be shaken by adversity or opposition. In the Five Dynasties period, Wang Dingbao quoted this phrase in 'Tang Zhi Yan' (唐摭言) to describe an official's unwavering integrity despite setbacks.
💡 Example Usage
他面对重重诱惑，始终坚守匪石之心，不为所动。
Facing myriad temptations, he held fast to an unwavering heart and refused to be swayed.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 匪石之心
- Pinyin: fěi shí zhī xīn
- Literal Translation: not, stone, of, heart
- Category: Determination
- Characters: 4