桃李满天下 — “A teacher's numerous students or disciples are spread across the land”

During the Tang Dynasty, when Empress Wu Zetian was on the throne, there was a highly respected prime minister named Di Renjie. He was known for his integrity and courage to offer direct counsel, earning him the deep admiration of the Empress, who affectionately referred to him as 'Guolao' (National Elder).

Empress Wu actively sought talented individuals to consolidate her rule and tasked Di Renjie with recommending capable officials. Di Renjie recommended dozens of people, including Zhang Kanzhi and Yao Chong, many of whom later became celebrated ministers.

Someone once remarked to Di Renjie, 'You are truly an extraordinary figure; the court is full of talented ministers you recommended, truly 'peaches and plums fill the world' (桃李满天下).' Di Renjie humbly replied that recommending able individuals for the country's service was simply his duty, not for personal gain.

In 700 AD, Di Renjie passed away at the age of 93. Empress Wu Zetian wept profusely. Thereafter, whenever the court faced significant challenges that no one could resolve, she would often sigh, 'Why did heaven take away my National Elder so soon!'