📖 Meaning
A phrase praising someone's lofty and pure moral character. It derives from the Tang scholar Yuan Dexiu (courtesy name Zizhi), whose dignified bearing was said to dispel all worldly desires for fame and fortune in those who beheld him. Used to extol a person of exceptional virtue and integrity.
📜 Origin Story
Recorded in the 'New Book of Tang' (新唐书), in the 'Biographies of Outstanding Conduct' chapter on Yuan Dexiu. Yuan Dexiu, courtesy name Zizhi, was a native of Henan known for his plain and sincere nature, and he composed the 'Rhapsody of a Lame Scholar' to describe himself. The Tang minister Fang Guan would sigh with admiration whenever he met Yuan, remarking that 'seeing Zizhi's countenance makes all desire for fame and fortune vanish from one's heart.' The phrase thereafter became a literary tribute to noble moral character.
💡 Example Usage
李先生紫芝眉宇，见者无不肃然起敬。
Mr. Li bears so noble a countenance that all who see him cannot help but regard him with deep reverence.
🏷️ Category
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🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 紫芝眉宇
- Pinyin: zǐ zhī méi yǔ
- Literal Translation: purple mushroom, brow and forehead
- Category: Morality
- Characters: 4