bì闭mén门tóu投xiá辖
To show extreme hospitality by preventing guests from leaving, metaphorically by removing the linchpins of their chariots to ensure they stay longer.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
During the late Western Han Dynasty, Chen Zun, the Administrator of Jingzhao, was known for his generous nature, talent, and exceptional hospitality. Officials from various regions and heroes from all corners admired his reputation and frequently came to visit him.
Chen Zun would host grand banquets, drinking with his guests. To ensure they stayed longer, he would instruct his servants to remove the linchpins (xia) from the guests' chariots and throw them into a well. With their chariots unable to move, the guests had no choice but to remain and continue drinking with him.