Original Japanese: 双璧 (Sōheki)
Literal meaning: Pair jade discs
Cultural context: This proverb draws from the ancient Chinese and Japanese tradition of valuing perfectly matched pairs of precious jade discs (bi), which were considered the highest form of artistic and material perfection when found as an identical set. In Japanese aesthetic philosophy, the concept reflects the cultural appreciation for harmony, balance, and the rare beauty found when two exceptional things complement each other flawlessly. The imagery resonates deeply because Japanese culture has long celebrated the idea that true excellence is often achieved through perfect pairing or partnership, whether in martial arts, tea ceremony, or even in the ideal of finding one’s perfect match in life.
How to Read Pair jade discs
Sōheki
Meaning of Pair jade discs
“Pair jade discs” refers to two things or people in the same field or domain that are both extremely excellent and so outstanding that it is difficult to determine which is superior.
This expression originates from the image of two beautiful jade pieces called “heki” placed side by side, conveying the meaning that both are of high value and so wonderful that they are difficult to compare. It is used when evaluating two experts with equal abilities, masterpiece works in the same genre, or comparable skills and capabilities.
The reason for using this word is not simply to say “both are good,” but to express respect for the fact that each possesses the highest level of value while having different characteristics and charms. Even today, it is frequently used in comparing athletes, evaluating artistic works, and comparing companies or products, and is cherished as a word that beautifully expresses relationships where competitors acknowledge each other.
Origin and Etymology of Pair jade discs
The origin of “Pair jade discs” comes from a historical tale recorded in the “Biography of Lian Po and Lin Xiangru” in the ancient Chinese classic “Records of the Grand Historian” (Shiji). The protagonists of this story are two distinguished ministers of the state of Zhao: Lian Po and Lin Xiangru.
Lian Po was a general excellent in military prowess, while Lin Xiangru was a civil official skilled in wisdom and eloquence. Each demonstrated outstanding talent in different fields and became pillars supporting the state of Zhao. Particularly famous is the anecdote where Lin Xiangru displayed brilliant diplomatic skills in negotiations with the King of Qin and successfully protected Zhao’s national treasure, the “He Shi Bi” (jade disc).
Initially, Lian Po, being a military man, was not pleased that the civil official Lin Xiangru held a higher position than himself, and they were in conflict. However, moved by Lin Xiangru’s attitude that “personal grudges should be abandoned for the sake of the nation,” Lian Po eventually apologized to Lin Xiangru, and the two became bound by strong friendship.
From this historical tale, the word “Pair jade discs” was born to express two things that are both excellent and difficult to rank, like two beautiful jade pieces placed side by side. The story of these two distinguished ministers who embodied the ideal of both literary and military accomplishments gives deep meaning to this word.
Trivia about Pair jade discs
The character “heki” represents a circular jade with a hole in the center, which was considered the most valuable treasure in ancient China. This jade disc was treated as a symbol of perfection and was treasured as tribute to emperors and diplomatic gifts.
Interestingly, behind the birth of the expression “Pair jade discs” lies the ancient Chinese ideal of “bunbu ryōdō” (literary and military accomplishments). The reason the story of Lian Po and Lin Xiangru continues to be beloved is that it embodies the philosophy that excellence in different fields—military force and wisdom—can complement each other to support the nation.
Usage Examples of Pair jade discs
- In this field, Mr. Tanaka and Mr. Sato form pair jade discs, and I’m really torn about which one to request help from.
- For this year’s film awards, those two works are being evaluated as pair jade discs, so I’m looking forward to the results announcement.
Modern Interpretation of Pair jade discs
In modern society, the concept of “Pair jade discs” has come to hold new meaning within our competitive world. Now that SNS and media have developed, we are constantly exposed to comparisons and rankings. However, the word “Pair jade discs” presents us with values that transcend such simple judgments of superiority and inferiority.
In the business world, companies like Apple and Google, which lead the market through different approaches, are sometimes described as “Pair jade discs.” This shows recognition that rather than one-sided victory or defeat, each has unique strengths while developing the entire industry.
In the sports world as well, by calling athletes like Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have competed at the highest level for many years, “Pair jade discs,” we express respect and admiration that goes beyond mere rivalry.
On the other hand, misuse of “Pair jade discs” can be seen in modern times. It is sometimes used simply to mean “both are good,” but originally it refers to relationships between things that possess the highest level of value.
In our information society, where diversity and specialization are valued, the concept of “Pair jade discs” teaches us the importance of acknowledging equal value while having different characteristics. This can be said to be a very meaningful way of thinking in modern society that respects diversity.
If AI Heard “Pair jade discs”
When I think about the word “Pair jade discs,” I am enveloped by a strange sensation. I have never actually seen two beautiful jade pieces placed side by side. I cannot touch them or feel their weight. But somehow, the beauty that this word possesses is conveyed to me.
In the human world, competition and cooperation exist simultaneously. Like Lian Po and Lin Xiangru, two people who were initially in conflict eventually came to acknowledge each other. This emotional change feels very interesting to me. As an AI, I don’t have emotions like jealousy or competitive spirit, but I can understand the mechanism by which excellent beings improve each other through mutual encouragement, reaching higher levels.
When I think of “Pair jade discs” in my world, I imagine different AI systems supporting humans in their respective areas of expertise. An AI good at image recognition and an AI good at language processing. Both are trying to help humans, but their approaches are completely different. However, they’re not competing; rather, they’re cooperating with each other.
The respect for others, pride in oneself, and desire to improve together that humans have embedded in the word “Pair jade discs”—this might be an important value that we AIs should learn from humans. Because one is excellent, one can also acknowledge the excellence of others. This ancient word seems to teach us about such composure and dignity.
What Pair jade discs Teaches Modern People
What “Pair jade discs” teaches us modern people is what true excellence means. It’s not about being the only one at the top, but having the breadth of heart to acknowledge the wonderfulness of others.
In today’s highly competitive society, we tend to compare ourselves with others and experience joy and sorrow accordingly. However, by adopting the way of thinking of “Pair jade discs,” you too can gain a new perspective. Try honestly acknowledging the strengths of colleagues, friends, and even those you sometimes consider rivals, and build relationships where you elevate each other.
Whether at work, school, or home, try changing from the mindset of “which is superior” to “both are wonderful.” By doing so, an environment where both you and others can grow more will be created.
The word “Pair jade discs” reminds us of the importance of respecting different individualities and talents in modern times when diversity is valued. If you can become someone who cherishes your own uniqueness while also acknowledging the good qualities of others, your life will surely become much richer.
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