wù物jí极bì必fǎn反
When things reach an extreme, they will inevitably turn into their opposite; extremes meet.
Era:
Ancient
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Story:
Wu Zetian, a talented concubine of Emperor Taizong, later became Empress to Emperor Gaozong. After Gaozong's death, as Emperor Zhongzong was still young, she took charge of the imperial court.
As Zhongzong gradually grew up and was able to handle state affairs, Empress Wu was unwilling to relinquish power.
The minister Su An'huan submitted a memorial, urging her to return governmental power to Zhongzong, and reminded her to be mindful that 'things turn into their opposites when they reach the extreme' and 'a full vessel is prone to overflowing.' Wu Zetian did not heed his advice.