shǐ始zhōng终rú如yī一
To be consistent from beginning to end; to remain true to one's original intention or state; to be steadfast and unwavering.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the late Warring States period, the philosopher Xun Kuang, while serving as the magistrate of Lanling in the State of Chu, discussed the essentials of military strategy with General Lin Wuzhao of Chu before King Xiaocheng of Zhao.
They emphasized that a general must master the 'five powers' and 'three reaches', exercising extreme caution before undertaking any military action. This meticulous attitude, they concluded, must be maintained consistently from beginning to end to achieve military victory.