To administer justice impartially; to judge cases with absolute fairness and integrity, as if a bright mirror were hung high, reflecting all truths.
Era:
Ancient
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Story:
Legend has it that in the Xianyang Palace during the Qin Dynasty, there was a miraculous mirror. It was four feet wide and five feet tall, capable of reflecting people from both sides. When a person stood before it, their reflection appeared upside down.
If one pressed their hand to their chest while looking into it, their internal organs would be visible, revealing ailments within the body. It could also identify those with malicious intentions. Qin Shi Huang frequently used this mirror to scrutinize those around him.
This legendary mirror, which could discern good from evil and reveal hidden truths, became a symbol for an official who judges cases with absolute fairness and honesty.