Breezy sleeves are a sign of morality

In traditional Chinese idioms, liangxiu qingfeng, or "two sleeves of cool breeze", is often used to describe clean and honest officials.

The expression became widely known because of the story of Yu Qian, an upright and honest official of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).

Yu was born in Qiantang, today's Hangzhou, capital of East China's Zhejiang province, and he entered officialdom at what was considered a tender age of 24.

He quickly gained a reputation of being an official who had great compassion for ordinary people. Recognized by the emperor, Yu was promoted to the position of governor, overseeing several provinces, but he maintained a frugal lifestyle.

Back then, a eunuch called Wang Zhen became very powerful in the imperial court, and many local officials on trips to the capital would lavish upon the eunuch precious gifts, such as jewelry and gold.

However, Yu never brought any gifts. Worried about Yu, one of his aides suggested he should present some local specialties to the eunuch.

Back in ancient times, Chinese people, particularly officials, scholars and women, used to wear gowns and dresses with very long and hollow sleeves, where they could carry things, such as gifts.

Hearing the aide's advice, Yu laughed and wrote a poem making his attitude clear: "I don't have anything to take to the capital but two sleeves of cool breeze."

After composing the poem, Yu left for the capital with his head held high. The poem later became widespread among the people.

Nowadays, the expression liangxiu qingfeng has come to refer to officials, like Yu Qian, whose dealings are honest and transparent.

Xinhua