Refers to impartial and truthful writing or reporting, especially by historians or journalists, who uphold principles of objectivity and integrity regardless of personal bias or external pressure. It signifies a fearless and honest account of events.
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During the Spring and Autumn period, Duke Ling of Jin was a cruel and tyrannical ruler. He indulged in immoral acts, such as shooting commoners with a slingshot from his tower and executing a chef for an unappetizing bear paw dish. Zhao Dun, the prime minister, repeatedly remonstrated with the Duke, which only incurred the Duke's wrath. Duke Ling even attempted to assassinate Zhao Dun.
Zhao Dun fled but did not leave the state's borders. Soon after, his nephew, Zhao Chuan, assassinated Duke Ling. Zhao Dun then returned to his position as prime minister.
The Grand Historian, Dong Hu, recorded in the historical annals: 'Zhao Dun murdered his sovereign.' Zhao Dun was shocked and argued that he was not the killer. Dong Hu explained, 'As prime minister, you fled but did not leave the state. When the sovereign was killed, you did not punish the assassin upon your return. If not you, then who should bear the responsibility for regicide?'
Later, Confucius praised Dong Hu, calling him 'an excellent historian of antiquity who recorded without concealment,' and lauded Zhao Dun as 'an excellent minister of antiquity who bore the infamy for the sake of the law.' From then on, 'Dong Hu's brush' became a metaphor for impartial, courageous, and truthful writing, especially in historical accounts.