气壮山河 — “To describe a magnificent and heroic spirit or momentum”

The idiom "Qi Zhuang Shan He" originates from the Song Dynasty, famously linked to the minister Zhao Ding. Zhao Ding, a high-ranking official, was known for his upright character and opposition to appeasement policies with the invading Jin forces. He often clashed with Qin Hui, a notoriously treacherous prime minister who favored surrender.

Due to Qin Hui's machinations, Zhao Ding was repeatedly demoted and eventually exiled to Zhuya, a remote and harsh land, where he lived in great hardship. Qin Hui, fearing Zhao Ding's influence even in exile, closely monitored his condition.

At the age of 62, gravely ill, Zhao Ding knew his end was near. He called his son to his bedside and, with deep sorrow and defiance, penned an inscription for his burial banner. It read, "My body rides the stars Gui and Wei back to heaven; my spirit is as grand as the mountains and rivers, making this dynasty magnificent." He meant that his heroic spirit would forever stand majestic and endure, much like the vast mountains and rivers.

A few days later, Zhao Ding passed away. This phrase, conveying a magnificent and unyielding spirit that can make mountains and rivers seem grand, became the idiom "Qi Zhuang Shan He".