安步当车 — “Calm steps act as a carriage”

The idiom "安步当车" (ān bù dàng chē) originates from a story about Yan Shu, a respected scholar during the Warring States period, and King Xuan of Qi.

King Xuan summoned Yan Shu to his palace. Upon entering, Yan Shu stopped at the steps leading to the throne, prompting King Xuan to call out, "Yan Shu, come over!" Yan Shu, however, remained still and called back, "Your Majesty, come over!" This led to a debate about the dignity of the monarch versus a scholar, with Yan Shu asserting the scholar's value.

Eventually, King Xuan, realizing his error, offered Yan Shu a life of luxury, including meat with every meal and a carriage for transport.

Yan Shu politely declined, stating that he preferred a simple life. He explained that a late meal could taste as good as meat, and walking slowly and contentedly was sufficient as a carriage. He cherished living peacefully and purely, finding joy in a simple existence rather than worldly comforts and power.

This story illustrates Yan Shu's contentment and his choice to walk at a leisurely pace, symbolizing his detachment from material desires and his appreciation for a tranquil life over the convenience of a carriage.