📖 Meaning
This idiom refers to a person who has reached the highest level of moral and spiritual cultivation. Such a person's mind is pure, tranquil, and undisturbed by worldly thoughts, so they do not have wild, fanciful dreams. It praises someone whose character is so lofty that even their subconscious is free of delusion.
📜 Origin Story
The phrase appears in Qing dynasty author Qian Cai's historical novel 'Shuo Yue Quan Zhuan' (Tales of Yue Fei), in chapter 59, where it is written: 'Since ancient times, the supreme person has no dreams; if a dream suddenly comes, it may not be without omen.' The concept of the 'supreme person' (至人) originates from ancient Daoist philosophy, particularly the Zhuangzi, where it denotes one who has transcended worldly attachments and attained perfect harmony with the Way. In the novel's context, the line is used to suggest that when such a rare dream does occur to a noble person, it may carry prophetic significance. Over time, the idiom became a standard expression of praise for those of exemplary moral character.
💡 Example Usage
他心境澄明，夜夜安眠，真可谓至人无梦。
His mind is clear and serene, and he sleeps soundly every night — he truly exemplifies the supreme person who has no dreams.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 至人无梦
- Pinyin: zhì rén wú mèng
- Literal Translation: supreme person, without dream
- Category: Morality
- Characters: 4