the Yellow River is clear and the sea is calm; the world is at peace
Meanings
1 sense · 4 examplesidiom
the Yellow River runs clear and the sea is calm; a time of peace and prosperity
literaryA classical, formal idiom describing an era of great peace and order. Often used in literary or historical contexts to praise a well-governed society. The variant '海晏河清' is equally correct.
Under the rule of that wise monarch, the land was truly at peace, with the Yellow River clear and the sea calm; the nation was prosperous and the people content.
The ideal golden age depicted by scholars through the ages often features the image of a clear river and a calm sea.
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As long as the common people live and work in peace and contentment, that is the best proof of a peaceful and prosperous age.
A calm sea and a clear river, with harmony between the seasons and abundant harvests, was the most sincere wish of the ancient people.