滥竽充数 — “To make up the number”

In ancient times, King Xuan of the Qi state loved music, especially the sound of the yu, a wind instrument. He had an ensemble of 300 skilled yu players. King Xuan enjoyed a lively atmosphere and grand displays, always wanting to show his royal authority. Therefore, whenever he listened to yu music, he would have all 300 musicians play together.

A man named Mr. Nanguo heard about King Xuan's peculiar fondness and saw an opportunity to make money. He went to King Xuan and boasted, "Your Majesty, I am a famous musician. No one who has heard me play the yu has failed to be moved. Even birds and beasts dance, and flowers and plants sway to my rhythm. I wish to offer my unique skill to Your Majesty." King Xuan was delighted and, without any examination, readily accepted him, adding him to the 300-member yu ensemble. From then on, Mr. Nanguo joined the other 300 players in performing for King Xuan, enjoying the same generous treatment, and felt extremely smug.

In truth, Mr. Nanguo had told a massive lie; he couldn't play the yu at all. During performances, he would hold his yu, mingle among the players, swaying his body when others swayed, nodding his head when others nodded. He would put on an expression of deep emotion and absorption, appearing to play just as earnestly as everyone else, showing no obvious flaws. Mr. Nanguo continued to deceive in this manner, day after day, receiving his salary without doing any work.

However, good times don't last forever. A few years later, King Xuan, who loved ensemble yu performances, passed away. His son, King Min, inherited the throne. King Min also enjoyed yu music, but unlike his father, he thought 300 players playing together was too noisy. He preferred the elegance and serenity of solo performances. So, King Min issued an order for all 300 musicians to practice diligently and prepare, as he would have them perform solo, one by one, for his enjoyment.

Upon receiving the order, the musicians eagerly practiced, each hoping to showcase their skills. Only Mr. Nanguo, who was merely making up the numbers, became as anxious as an ant on a hot pan, living in constant fear. After much thought, he realized he could no longer get away with his deception. He packed his bags overnight and fled.

People like Mr. Nanguo, who are unlearned and rely on deceit to make a living, can only fool others for a short time, not forever. What is fake is fake, and ultimately, it cannot escape the test of reality and will be exposed. If we want to succeed, the only way is through diligent study. Only by acquiring genuine, solid skills can we withstand all challenges.