Refers to how bad deeds or hidden intentions, like a multitude of birds gathering on a thorny tree, cannot ultimately be concealed and will eventually be exposed or become evident.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Warring States period, Xie Jufu, a Grand Master from the State of Jin, was appointed by the State of Wu. On his journey to assume his duties, he passed by the tomb gate of the State of Chen. There, he saw a young woman by the roadside, holding an infant. He was tempted to accost her and indulge his desires.
The woman cleverly cited a verse from the 'Classic of Poetry' (Shijing): 'At the tomb gate are thorny trees, where owls gather.' This quote, implying that ill intentions are as visible as birds on a thorny tree, effectively deterred him.
Xie Jufu, understanding her implied message, had no choice but to abandon his disgraceful intentions.