A Praying Mantis Challenges A Carriage

Chinese Idioms and Their Stories

In 5000 years of traditional Chinese culture, the Chinese idiom is a shining pearl in the treasure of the Chinese language. It is concise, vivid, expressive and an accumulation of historical facts and rich ethnic cultures. The formation of each phrase reflects historical truth, which mirrors the politics, military, culture, folk customs, ethics and ideals. These idioms allow us to better understand the long history of China, its superior wisdom and timeless language.

 螂臂擋車

 螂(lang)--mantis臂(bi)--arms擋(dang)--block車(che)--carriage

Once King Qi Zhuang Gong went hunting into the mountain with dozens of followers. Along the way, Qi Zhuang Gong was in high spirit, so he talked and laughed with followers and had a good time. Suddenly, not far from his carriage, there was a little green insect which was trying to raise its arms high with an erect body facing the carriage’s wheel as if it was ready to fight. 

That a small insect dared to fight with a wheel was truly a moving scene. It was interesting enough to catch Qi Zhuang Gong’s attention.  He asked his attendants, “What kind of insect is that?”

“Your Majesty, it is a praying mantis.” 

“Why does it act like this?”

“Your Majesty, it wants to fight with our carriage. It wants to stop us from going forward.”

Qi Zhuang Gong said, “It is really interesting! But why would it do that?”

The followers said, “Your Majesty, this insect only knows how to move forward, but it doesn’t know how to back off.  It has a tiny body, and yet it’s arrogant and ignores the current situation.”

After hearing that, Qi Zhuang Gong was very moved, “Ah, this little insect has such an ambition. If it were a human being, it would be a most respectful opponent!”  Qi Zhuang Gong immediately asked his driver to back off to avoid hurting the mantis.

Later on, all the soldiers and generals in the state of Qi were touched by this incident.  Thus, they became very brave in the battle field.  Everyone was willing to sacrifice his life for the king.

Generally speaking, when people talk about a praying mantis’ raising its arms to block a carriage, it means that one overestimates one’s ability. However, if we look at it from another angle, it is truly admirable for the little praying mantis being so courageous which is very inspiring, indeed!