Bốn lão Thương Sơn
Definition
Proper Noun: - The Four Haos of Mount Shang: Refers to a group of four revered elderly scholars (Dongyuan Gong, Jiao Li Xiansheng, Qi Li Xiansheng, and Xia Huang Gong) who lived in seclusion on Mount Shang during the early Han Dynasty. They are famous for refusing to serve the court due to Emperor Gaozu's disrespectful attitude towards scholars, but later emerging to support and protect the rightful heir, Crown Prince Liu Ying.
Usage Examples
- Proper Noun:
- Truyền thuyết về Bốn lão Thương Sơn minh họa cho đức tính của bậc ẩn sĩ. (The legend of the Four Haos of Mount Shang illustrates the virtues of reclusive scholars.)
- Nhờ mưu kế của Trương Lương, Lã Hậu đã thỉnh được Bốn lão Thương Sơn về giúp Thái tử. (Thanks to Zhang Liang's strategy, Empress Lü successfully invited the Four Haos of Mount Shang to help the Crown Prince.)
Advanced Usage
- This term is primarily used in historical, literary, or cultural contexts to discuss loyalty, political strategy, or the moral authority of scholars in ancient China.
- It can symbolize wise elders whose support legitimizes authority or a rightful cause.
Variants and Related Words
- Thương Sơn Tứ hạo (Proper Noun): The Four Haos/Elders of Mount Shang. This is the direct Chinese-origin term for the same group.
- Thương Sơn Tứ hạo là một điển tích nổi tiếng. (The Four Haos of Mount Shang is a famous literary allusion.)
Synonyms
- The Four Elders of Mount Shang: A direct English translation.
- The Four Graybeards of Mount Shang: An alternative English translation emphasizing their age and wisdom.
Related Idioms and Cultural References
- While not a standalone idiom, the phrase "Bốn lão Thương Sơn" itself is a cultural allusion (điển tích). It is used to refer to a group of venerable, influential elders whose hidden support is crucial for success, especially in a political context.
- Đội ngũ cố vấn của ông ấy giống như Bốn lão Thương Sơn vậy. (His team of advisors is just like the Four Haos of Mount Shang.)