A sincere and enduring friendship that transcends differences in wealth or social status; a bond between friends that remains unchanged despite changes in their fortunes.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
The idiom "车笠之盟" (Chē Lì Zhī Méng) originates from an ancient custom in the Su-Yue region, which was known for its simple and honest ways.
When people first formed a friendship, they would build an earthen altar, offer sacrifices like chickens and dogs, and swear an oath to the heavens.
The oath went: "Though you ride in a carriage and I wear a bamboo hat, should we meet again in the future, you will step down from your carriage to greet me; if I walk and you ride a horse, when we meet again, you will dismount."
This ritual expressed their wish that, no matter how their social statuses might change, their humble friendship would remain strong and unforgotten.