Original article: 終南捷徑
The idiom "Shortcut to Mount Zhongnan" refers to a way of seeking fame and recognition through self-promotion, often to gain personal power or benefit.
In ancient China, this idiom drew from the story of Lu Cangyong, a scholar of the Tang dynasty. Despite passing the imperial exam, Lu was not assigned any government position, so he chose to retreat and live in seclusion on Mount Zhongnan. Mount Zhongnan is part of the Qinling mountain range, which stretches from Tianshui County in Gansu Province across the southern part of Shaanxi Province, ending in Shan County, Henan Province. During the Tang dynasty, the capital Chang'an (now Xi'an in Shaanxi Province) was situated near the middle section of this mountain range. Due to its proximity to the capital, Mount Zhongnan was a favored retreat for high-ranking officials, and many secluded scholars there gained visibility among powerful court figures who frequented the area. Often, these scholars were summoned to serve as government officials, as was the case for Lu Cangyong, who found his path into an official career on Mount Zhongnan. Hence, the mountain became associated with a "shortcut" for reclusive scholars to achieve fame, wealth, and position.
According to legend, Sima Chengzhen, a renowned Taoist monk from Mount Tiantai (the origin of the Tiantai school of Buddhism in present-day Zhejiang Province), was once invited to the Tang capital by Emperor Ruizong. As he prepared to return to Mount Tiantai, Lu Cangyong pointed to Mount Zhongnan and suggested, “This mountain here has places of great beauty—why travel thousands of miles back home?”Sima Chengzhen replied calmly, “In my view, Mount Zhongnan is merely a shortcut for those seeking fame and official positions.” Hearing this, Lu Cangyong felt a deep sense of shame. This story was recorded in Tang New Sayings: Hermits and other Taoist classics.
In reality, taking a "shortcut to Mount Zhongnan" may sometimes lead to success, but it is ultimately not a product of genuine intention or sincere ability. Using the guise of a reclusive sage to seize better worldly opportunities reveals a contradiction between one's motives and goals and ultimately falls short as a sustainable approach. We all understand that life is not solely measured by worldly success or failure. Even without fame or wealth, a life lived with authenticity, contentment, and peace is its own reward—a unique and admirable way to navigate one's journey.
- There is no “shortcut to Mount Zhongnan” for acquiring knowledge; only through diligent effort and true comprehension can it be truly attained.
- Becoming a better version of oneself has no “shortcut to Mount Zhongnan,” as it requires facing one’s flaws with honesty and continually reflecting and improving.
- The “shortcut to Mount Zhongnan” may bring fleeting success, but it is by no means a path to be encouraged.
Written by Bubu
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