和美

「天时不如地利，地利不如人和」

The right timing is not as good as the right terrain; the right terrain is not as good as human harmony

— Mencius, 'Gongsun Chou II'

Good timing matters less than favorable terrain, and favorable terrain matters less than people united in harmony — 'harmony' is the highest value in Chinese culture.

「礼之用，和为贵」

In the practice of ritual, harmony is the most precious principle

— The Analects, 'Learning'

In applying the rites, harmony is to be prized above all — the core of the 'harmony is precious' philosophy.

「欲把西湖比西子，淡妆浓抹总相宜」

If I were to compare West Lake to Xi Shi, she is lovely whether lightly adorned or richly dressed

— Su Shi, 'Drinking on the Lake After the Rain Clears'

Comparing West Lake to the legendary beauty Xi Shi — she is enchanting whether in light or heavy makeup — the pinnacle of beauty.

「美人在时花满堂，美人去后空余床」

When the beauty was here, flowers filled the hall; after she left, only an empty bed remains

— Li Bai, 'Endless Yearning'

When the beauty was present, blossoms filled the room; when she departs, only an empty bed is left — the ache of longing.