BEIJING, Jan. 8 (Xinhua) -- Honoring teachers and their intelligence has always been a tradition in China. Since ancient times, teachers have been respected by people as messengers of wisdom.
The famous Chinese idiom, "Cheng Men Li Xue," which literally means "standing in the snow at the gate of Cheng's home," is a wonderful example. "Cheng" refers to Cheng Yi, one of the leading philosophers of Neo-Confucianism in the Song Dynasty (960-1276). Attracted by Cheng's theory, Yang Shi, a talented, hardworking young man who loved reading and studying, worshipped Cheng as his mentor.
One day, Yang and his friend You Zuo had different opinions on one question. In order to get a proper answer, they went to Cheng's home for advice.
It was in the middle of winter. Feeling frozen by the wind and snow, the two men wrapped themselves tightly in their clothes and hurried on. When they arrived at Cheng's place, the gatekeeper said the master was taking a nap.
The two students did not complain. Instead, they chose not to disturb the teacher and waited outside the door, standing in heavy snowfall.
After quite some time, Cheng upon waking up became aware that his students had been standing still in the snow for a while and immediately invited them to come in. By this time, the snowfall was already one foot thick.
Deeply moved by Yang's patience, Cheng gave detailed answers to the students' questions. After years of study, Yang finally achieved his life goal as a great scholar.
Modern Chinese society still retains the fine tradition of respecting teachers of high prestige and deep learning.
Zhang Guimei, the principal of the Huaping Senior High School for Girls in southwest China's Yunnan Province, won the July 1 Medal last year. The medal is the highest honor for outstanding members in the Communist Party of China.
She has been educating and aiding students in need, most of whom live in isolated and poor areas. The school has created a miracle for the girls: 1,804 graduates have been admitted to colleges at the end of 2020. ■
As an enthusiast deeply knowledgeable about the Chinese cultural traditions and historical context, I can assert my expertise in understanding the significance of the article you provided. The passage reflects the enduring tradition in China of venerating teachers as purveyors of wisdom, a cultural practice rooted in ancient times. This reverence is exemplified by the famous Chinese idiom "Cheng Men Li Xue," derived from the esteemed Neo-Confucian philosopher Cheng Yi of the Song Dynasty.
The narrative revolves around a historical incident involving Cheng Yi, a prominent philosopher, and his disciples, particularly Yang Shi. Their dedication to seeking knowledge is highlighted by their journey to Cheng's home in the midst of winter to resolve a philosophical dispute. Despite facing freezing conditions, the students demonstrated profound respect by patiently waiting outside Cheng's home, symbolizing the enduring value placed on education and the pursuit of wisdom in Chinese culture.
The commitment of the students, enduring the snowfall to seek guidance, reflects the importance attached to learning and the profound impact of a teacher's wisdom. Cheng Yi's acknowledgment of their patience and subsequent detailed answers signifies the reciprocal relationship between teacher and student, where respect and dedication lead to intellectual growth.
The article then transitions to a modern context, showcasing the continuity of this tradition in contemporary Chinese society. Zhang Guimei, the principal of Huaping Senior High School for Girls, is highlighted as an exemplary figure who received the prestigious July 1 Medal. This recognition, the highest honor for outstanding members in the Communist Party of China, underscores the continued importance of educators in shaping society.
Zhang Guimei's dedication to educating and aiding students in need, particularly those from isolated and impoverished areas, exemplifies the contemporary manifestation of the longstanding tradition of respecting and honoring educators. The article cites the school's remarkable achievement, with 1,804 graduates being admitted to colleges by the end of 2020, illustrating the tangible impact of quality education on individuals and communities.
In summary, the article underscores the enduring tradition in China of honoring teachers as bearers of wisdom, drawing on historical examples and contemporary instances to emphasize the cultural and societal significance of education and intellectual pursuits. This tradition, deeply ingrained in Chinese society, reflects a profound respect for the transformative power of knowledge and the role of educators in shaping individuals and communities.
