同甘共苦 — “To share joys and sorrows”

The idiom '同甘共苦' (tóng gān gòng kǔ) originates from 'Strategies of the Warring States: Strategies of Yan', stating that King Yan visited the bereaved and inquired about the living, sharing the joys and hardships with his people for twenty-eight years. The term '甘' means sweet, and '苦' means bitter. It describes sharing the sweet and the bitter together, metaphorically meaning to share both good fortune and endure difficulties together.

During the Warring States period, Prince Ji Ping of Yan ascended to the throne, known as King Zhao of Yan. He was unsure how to govern and strengthen his state for the prosperity of his people. One day, he heard that Guo Wei was skilled in strategy. He immediately sent for Guo Wei and asked, 'Can you help me find a capable person to assist me in strengthening the state and seeking retribution?'

Guo Wei replied, 'If you broadly select talented individuals and personally visit them, then all capable people under heaven will flock to Yan.' 'Then whom should I visit first?' King Zhao asked. Guo Wei responded, 'Start by giving importance to someone like me, who has only moderate abilities! When talented people throughout the land see that even someone like me is highly valued by you, they will surely come to you, no matter how distant the journey.'

King Zhao immediately honored Guo Wei as his teacher and built a magnificent residence for him. As news spread, talented individuals like Yue Yi, Zou Yan, and Ju Xin came from various states to serve King Zhao of Yan. King Zhao was very pleased; he entrusted them with important responsibilities and showed them great care.

He personally attended to matters like weddings and funerals, and other important events in the lives of his people. In this way, he shared in the joys and hardships with his people for twenty-eight years. Eventually, he succeeded in making the State of Yan prosperous and powerful, earning the unanimous support and respect of everyone.