📖 Meaning
Neighbors keep watch for one another and come to each other's aid against invaders or disasters. The phrase emphasizes mutual defense and collective security among neighboring communities. It reflects the ideal of solidarity and shared responsibility.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from the book Mencius (《孟子·滕文公上》), written during the Warring States period by the philosopher Mencius (孟子, 372–289 BC). In the passage, Mencius describes an ideal society where villagers befriend one another, jointly stand guard against threats, and support each other through illness and hardship. The phrase captures his vision of harmonious communal life rooted in mutual care and collective defense. It remains a cornerstone expression of neighborly solidarity in Chinese culture.
💡 Example Usage
这两个村庄长期守望相助，共同抵御外敌入侵。
These two villages have long stood watch and helped each other, jointly defending against foreign invasion.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 守望相助
- Pinyin: shǒu wàng xiāng zhù
- Literal Translation: guard, watch, each other, help
- Category: Morality
- Characters: 4