程门立雪(程門立雪)

Pronunciation: chéng mén lì xuě Literal meaning: Cheng door stand snow

Origin & Usage

A Song Dynasty tale of devotion immortalized student Yang Shi, who stood in snow (立雪) outside philosopher Cheng Yi's door (程门), awaiting his teacher's wisdom. Yuan Dynasty scholars adopted it as the model for ideal student-teacher relationships. The image of a scholar enduring physical discomfort in pursuit of knowledge perfectly captured the Confucian ideal of learning. Modern usage celebrates those who demonstrate profound respect for knowledge through patient dedication.

When to Use

Situation: The young researcher spent hours outside the professor's office seeking mentorship

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