lǎo老ér而bù不sǐ死shì是wéi为zéi贼
A derogatory saying used to criticize an old person who lacks virtue, integrity, or has become a burden, suggesting they are living too long without contributing positively.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
During the Spring and Autumn period, Yuan Rang's mother passed away. Instead of showing sorrow, he sang. His old friend Confucius believed he did not understand propriety.
Later, when Confucius came to visit him, Yuan Rang sat sprawled on his mat with his legs stretched out.
Confucius rebuked him, saying: "When you were young, you were neither humble nor respectful; when you grew up, you did nothing commendable; and now that you are old, if you still don't die, you will become a harmful nuisance."