How to Read “渇しても盗泉の水を飲まず”
Kashite mo tōsen no mizu wo nomazu
Meaning of “渇しても盗泉の水を飲まず”
This proverb expresses high aspirations and a pure spirit that refuses to do anything against morality or that would damage one’s character, no matter how desperate the circumstances.
Even when struggling financially, one refuses to obtain money through dishonest means. No matter how much one desires advancement, one does not choose cowardly methods that would betray others. In this way, it is used to show an attitude that values one’s beliefs and moral values above all else, and refuses to bend them for profit. Even today, it is used when politicians and business leaders maintain their integrity without engaging in corruption or misconduct, or when individuals express their determination to continue walking the right path without succumbing to temptation. This proverb contains the profound philosophy that long-term honor and character are far more valuable than temporary suffering.
Origin and Etymology
This proverb originates from a historical account recorded in the ancient Chinese classic “Kongzi Jiayu” (The School Sayings of Confucius). During China’s Spring and Autumn period, Zilu, a disciple of Confucius, was struck by intense thirst while traveling. At that moment, he discovered a spring called “Tōsen” (Stolen Spring).
“Tōsen” literally means “thief’s spring,” and it was a spring used as a hiding place by bandits. Despite suffering from thirst, Zilu despised its dishonorable name and refused to drink the water. Even though he was thirsty enough that his life was at stake, he judged that he could not drink water from a spring with a morally problematic name.
This historical account was transmitted to Japan and became established as the proverb “Even if thirsty, one does not drink water of stolen spring.” During the Edo period, when Confucian teachings were highly valued, it was considered particularly important as a principle for samurai. This story expressing Zilu’s noble spirit must have deeply resonated with Japanese aesthetic sensibilities. Since ancient times, Japan has had a culture that values honor and character, and this proverb has continued to be cherished as words that symbolize those values.
Interesting Facts
There are interesting facts about the name of the spring “Tōsen.” In ancient China, place names and spring names often reflected the nature and history of the location, and “Tōsen” is considered likely to have actually been used as a bandit hideout.
Additionally, Zilu, who appears in this proverb, was known among Confucius’s disciples for being particularly brave and having a strong sense of justice. He later became active in the political world, but records remain showing that he maintained his beliefs until the end and never compromised his stance against injustice.
Usage Examples
- The job offer from that company is attractive, but with the condition of bringing confidential information from competitors, I should decline with the spirit of “Even if thirsty, one does not drink water of stolen spring”
- While being criticized for political funding issues, I want to continue clean politics with the resolve of “Even if thirsty, one does not drink water of stolen spring”
Modern Interpretation
In modern society, the meaning of this proverb has become more complex and multifaceted. In our information age, things equivalent to “water of stolen spring” have dramatically increased. There are daily temptations to cross moral lines for short-term gain, such as inflammatory marketing on social media, spreading fake news, and misusing personal information.
Particularly in the business world, situations requiring gray-zone judgments occur frequently. The reality is that methods that are legally acceptable but ethically questionable are rampant, such as gathering competitor information, exploiting tax loopholes, and efficiency measures that disregard workers’ rights. On the other hand, this is also an era where ESG investment and compliance-focused management are demanded, and there is growing recognition that clean management ultimately enhances corporate value from a long-term perspective.
At the individual level, amid the side-job boom, sweet temptations abound such as dubious investment schemes and selling information products that promise “easy money.” However, as this proverb teaches, making choices that compromise one’s character due to temporary hardship can ultimately diminish one’s own value. Perhaps now more than ever is the time to reconsider the universal value of this ancient teaching.
When AI Hears This
The noble act of Confucius’s disciple who refused water simply because of the name “Robber’s Spring” stands in stark contrast to modern people continuing to work at exploitative companies, representing completely opposite value judgments.
According to Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, approximately 3 million workers put in over 80 hours of overtime monthly, with most staying in terrible conditions citing “financial necessity” and “job change anxiety.” This is the complete opposite of ancient Chinese ideals, where “survival” now takes priority over “dignity” in modern times.
What’s particularly fascinating is how Japan’s unique “virtue of endurance” complicates this issue. People working at exploitative companies feel pressure not just from economic reasons, but also from social expectations like “quitting is weakness” and “everyone else is working hard.” This reflects a different moral framework of “loyalty to the group” rather than the teaching of Robber’s Spring.
However, we’re seeing changes among younger generations. About 70% of Gen Z prioritizes “work-life balance,” and turnover rates at companies with poor conditions are rising. This could be seen as a modern version of “not drinking from Robber’s Spring” – showing a revival of values that prioritize individual dignity.
The gap between ancient ideals and modern reality poses a fundamental question: “What do we work for?”
Lessons for Today
What this proverb teaches us today is the fundamental question of “what is true wealth?” Succumbing to temporary difficulties or desires and compromising one’s values ultimately means losing the most precious thing: trust in oneself.
In modern society, success criteria have diversified and there’s a tendency toward “anything goes,” but precisely because of this, it’s important to clearly define your own “water you must not drink.” This may differ from person to person. For some, it might be hurting others; for others, it might be telling lies.
What matters is deciding those boundaries for yourself and having the strength to maintain them no matter what temptations arise. By doing so, you will not only gain genuine trust from those around you but also be able to walk through life with pride in yourself. Remember this ancient teaching especially during difficult times. Your character is your most valuable asset.
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