海纳百川

Pinyin:hǎi nà bǎi chuān

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📖 Meaning

All rivers run into the sea.

📜 Origin

《庄子》

💡 Detailed Explanation

"Hai Na Bai Chuan" literally means the sea admits hundreds of rivers, and it is a metaphor for a broad mind and great tolerance, capable of embracing all kinds of different people, things, or opinions. This idiom originates from Zhuangzi: Autumn Floods, which mentions that "among all the waters in the world, none is greater than the sea, and all rivers flow into it," emphasizing the vastness and inclusiveness of the sea. In terms of cultural background, it reflects the philosophical idea in Chinese culture that "tolerance brings greatness," and it is often used to praise a person or organization for having an open and tolerant character. It is mostly used to describe a leader's magnanimity, a company's inclusive culture, or an individual's cultivation. Its emotional tone is positive, carrying admiration and praise. Its deeper meaning is to encourage people to be like the sea, embracing differences with a broad mind, gathering strength, and achieving a greater pattern.

📝 Example

1. As an excellent leader, he is broad-minded and open to all opinions, so the team atmosphere is very harmonious. 2. This city attracts immigrants from all over the world with its spirit of embracing all, forming a diverse culture.