zhōu周yóu游liè列guó国
To travel extensively throughout various regions or countries; to tour extensively across the land.
Era:
Modern
Frequency:
Story:
During the Spring and Autumn period, Confucius led his disciples on journeys to various vassal states, hoping to advocate his political philosophy. However, his conservative views often clashed with the ambitions of the warring feudal lords, and he was frequently met with indifference.
On one occasion, Confucius became separated from his students. He stood by the East Gate, looking dejected.
When his disciple, Zigong, inquired of a local from the State of Zheng about Confucius's whereabouts, the person replied, "By the East Gate, there's an old man who looks like a homeless dog, standing there in a daze."