To suddenly achieve a clear and profound understanding of something, often after a period of confusion or difficulty; to have a sudden realization or epiphany. It can also literally describe a scene suddenly becoming spacious and bright.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
During the Jin Dynasty, Tao Yuanming, disillusioned by the political intrigues and corruption in officialdom, resolutely chose to resign from his post rather than compromise his integrity for a meager salary. He then retreated to a life of reclusion.
In his famous work "The Peach Blossom Spring," he envisioned a utopian world, free from social hierarchy and exploitation, describing it thus: "The mountain had a small opening, as if there was light within. He then abandoned his boat and entered the opening. At first, it was extremely narrow, just wide enough for a person to pass through. After walking a few dozen steps further, it suddenly opened up into a wide and bright expanse (豁然开朗)."
This phrase later came to metaphorically describe a sudden enlightenment or realization.