A single person's effort is insufficient to cope with a major crisis or maintain a large undertaking; it highlights the inadequacy of individual strength against overwhelming odds.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the reign of Emperor Shun of the Liu Song dynasty in the Southern Dynasties, Xiao Daocheng seized power, murdered loyal officials, acted unscrupulously, and harbored ambitions to usurp the throne.
At that time, ministers Yuan Can and Qi Dong secretly plotted to kill Xiao Daocheng. However, their plan was not kept secret and was discovered by Chu Yuan, one of Xiao Daocheng's associates, who then informed Xiao Daocheng.
Enraged, Xiao Daocheng immediately dispatched his general Dai Sengjing with a large force to attack Yuan Can, besieging his city.
At this point, Yuan Can told his son Yuan Zui, "I know full well that a single pillar cannot support the collapse of a great mansion, but for the sake of honor and integrity, I must defend it to the death."
Later, Dai Sengjing led his troops to scale the walls and stormed into the city. Under the enemy's blades and spears, Yuan Zui bravely shielded his father with his body.
Then, Yuan Can said to his son Yuan Zui, "I am a loyal minister, and you are a filial son; we die without regret." Ultimately, both father and son perished.