nghĩa Xuân thu

Definition
  1. Proper Noun:
    • The righteous principle of the Spring and Autumn Annals: Refers specifically to the Confucian doctrine of just retribution or righteous vengeance, as emphasized in the Spring and Autumn Annals (Xuân Thu), a historical chronicle traditionally edited by Confucius. The core tenet is that "loạn thần tặc tử" (rebellious ministers and villainous sons) must be punished to restore moral order.
    • The obligation to avenge a wrong: Denotes the moral duty, derived from the Spring and Autumn Annals, to seek righteous revenge, especially for a grave injustice against one's family or state.
Usage Examples
  • Proper Noun:
    • Nhân vật ấy trong truyện luôn tâm niệm nghĩa Xuân thu. (That character in the story always holds fast to the righteous principle of the Spring and Autumn Annals.)
    • Lời dặn "nghĩa Xuân thu" thúc giục chàng trai quyết tâm phục thù. (The exhortation of "the obligation of righteous vengeance" spurred the young man to seek revenge.)
Advanced Usage
  • The term is deeply rooted in classical East Asian historiography and Confucian ethics. It is not a general term for revenge but signifies a morally sanctioned, righteous act of retribution to rectify a profound moral betrayal.
Variants and Related Words
  • Phục thù (v): to take revenge, to avenge.
    • Hắn nuôi chí phục thù. (He harbored a desire for revenge.)
Synonyms
  • Righteous vengeance: Morally justified revenge.
  • Just retribution: Deserved punishment for wrongdoing.
Related Concepts
  • Xuân Thu: The , the historical text from which this principle is derived.
  • Loạn thần tặc tử: A set phrase from the annals meaning "rebellious ministers and villainous sons," representing the ultimate objects of this righteous vengeance.