Lê Lai
Definition
- Proper Noun:
- A historical figure and national hero of Vietnam: Lê Lai was a military general under the command of Lê Lợi, the leader of the Lam Sơn uprising against the Ming dynasty's occupation in the 15th century. He is most famous for his act of supreme sacrifice, disguising himself as Lê Lợi to divert the enemy, which allowed the rebellion to survive and ultimately succeed.
Usage Examples
- Proper Noun:
- Lê Lai là một vị tướng dũng cảm. (Lê Lai was a brave general.)
- Sự hy sinh của Lê Lai đã cứu sống Lê Lợi. (The sacrifice of Lê Lai saved Lê Lợi's life.)
- "Hăm mốt Lê Lai, hăm hai Lê Lợi" là một câu ca dao nổi tiếng. ("The twenty-first for Lê Lai, the twenty-second for Lê Lợi" is a famous folk verse.)
Advanced Usage
- The name Lê Lai is often invoked in Vietnamese culture as the ultimate symbol of loyalty, self-sacrifice, and putting the nation's cause above one's own life. His story is a foundational myth of Vietnamese resilience and patriotism.
Variants and Related Words
- Lê Lợi (Proper Noun): The emperor and leader whom Lê Lai sacrificed himself to save; later established the Lê dynasty.
- Lam Sơn uprising (Noun Phrase): The rebellion against Ming rule, led by Lê Lợi, in which Lê Lai played a crucial role.
- Kỷ Tín (Proper Noun): A Chinese historical figure from the Han dynasty known for a similar act of sacrificing himself by impersonating his lord. Lê Lai's deed is often compared to his.
Synonyms
- Hero: A person admired for courage or noble qualities.
- Martyr: A person who sacrifices their life for a cause.
Related Idioms and Cultural References
- "Hăm mốt Lê Lai, hăm hai Lê Lợi":
- This folk verse refers to the traditional commemoration dates. It signifies that the memorial ceremony for Lê Lai (on the 21st day of the lunar month) should be held before that for Lê Lợi (on the 22nd), symbolizing that his sacrifice made Lê Lợi's subsequent victory and reign possible. It embodies the principle of "ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây" (when eating the fruit, remember the planter).