諺語 · a single proverb
自力更生
What does 自力更生 (zì lì gèng shēng) mean?
自力更生 (zì lì gèng shēng) is a four-character classical idiom (chéngyǔ 成語). Word for word it reads "self-strength, further life." In use it means: Regenerate through one's own strength; self-reliance and independence. You reach for it when you want that idea in one breath, and the Wood note it carries is why we hand it to those born in the Year of the Ox.
Literally: "self-strength, further life."
The reading
The tree that has grown its own root system in hard soil does not topple when the neighboring tree is cut down. Self-reliance is not pride or isolation but the quiet confidence of knowing that the source of what you need is within reach of your own hands. This is what makes independence a form of freedom, not aloneness.
What kind of proverb it is
Source Modern Chinese political idiom; rooted in classical self-cultivation tradition
Sits beside
Keep reading
Return to the Proverb Pond to draw another of the eighty-seven, or hear one read aloud. Read the rest of its chapter in Perseverance & the Long Road, or follow the years these lines belong to: Year of the Ox, Year of the Rat, and Year of the Tiger.
Questions
Is 自力更生 a real Chinese proverb?
Yes. 自力更生 (zì lì gèng shēng) is a four-character classical idiom (chéngyǔ 成語), and it comes from Modern Chinese political idiom; rooted in classical self-cultivation tradition. It is living Chinese heritage, given here with per-character pinyin and its source so you can trust the line, not a phrase invented in English.
How do you pronounce 自力更生?
In Mandarin it is zì lì gèng shēng. Read the pinyin above each character to follow the tones, or press the speaker beside the calligraphy to hear your browser read 自力更生 aloud in Mandarin.