📖 Meaning
Orchids and lingzhi (a revered medicinal fungus) are symbols of noble character. This idiom is a metaphor for high virtue that endures and never fades. It conveys the idea that genuine moral excellence persists over time.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase originates from the Han dynasty scholar Wang Yanshou's 'Ode to the Lingguang Hall of Lu' (鲁灵光殿赋), which vividly describes osmanthus and orchids growing luxuriantly in all directions. A cited annotation from 'Li Nian Wei Yi' (礼年威仪) explains that when a ruler governs with justice and the state is at peace, orchids and lingzhi will grow constantly—a natural omen of virtuous and harmonious rule. The idiom thus links political virtue with the flourishing of noble plants.
💡 Example Usage
这位老先生一生行善积德，正如兰芝常生，深受邻里敬重。
This old gentleman has spent his life doing good and accumulating virtue; just as orchids and lingzhi grow constantly, he is deeply respected by his neighbors.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 兰芝常生
- Pinyin: lán zhī cháng shēng
- Literal Translation: orchid, lingzhi, constantly, grow
- Category: Morality
- Characters: 4