📖 Meaning
This idiom means to remain vigilant and mentally prepared for potential dangers even during times of prosperity and success. It is essentially synonymous with 'thinking of danger in times of peace' (居安思危). The phrase stresses maintaining a mindset of cautious foresight at all times so as to be ready for unexpected events.
📜 Origin Story
The idiom 忧盛危明 expresses a concept deeply rooted in classical Chinese political and philosophical thought, essentially synonymous with the more common 居安思危. The idea of remaining vigilant during times of prosperity traces back to ancient texts such as the Zuo Zhuan (左传, Commentary of Zuo) and the Book of Documents (尚书), where wise ministers advised rulers that flourishing states must anticipate future dangers. While 居安思危 has a clear textual origin in the Zuo Zhuan's account of Wei Jiang advising Duke Dao of Jin, 忧盛危明 is a later literary variant that rephrases the same wisdom. It has been used by scholars and officials throughout later dynasties as a reminder that even in times of evident prosperity (盛) and clarity (明), one must keep worry (忧) about latent dangers (危). The phrase reflects the enduring Confucian ideal of prudence and foresight in governance.
💡 Example Usage
公司业绩连年攀升，但董事长仍忧盛危明，常告诫员工切勿掉以轻心。
Although the company's performance has risen year after year, the chairman remains vigilant in times of prosperity and often warns employees against complacency.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 忧盛危明
- Pinyin: yōu shèng wēi míng
- Literal Translation: worry, prosperous, danger, clear
- Category: Wisdom
- Characters: 4