Understanding "新安吏" - Chinese Word Explanation

1. Basic Information

• Word: 新安吏
• Pinyin: Xīn'ān lì
• Literal Meaning: "New Peace Official" or "Official of Xin'an"
• Primary Meaning: Refers to a historical government official from the Xin'an region (modern-day Anhui province) during the Tang Dynasty. It is also the title of a famous poem by Du Fu, which critiques the conscription practices of the time.

2. In-depth Explanation

Context and Usage

"新安吏" is primarily known as the title of one of Du Fu's "Three Officials" (三吏) poems, which depict the hardships of common people during the An Lushan Rebellion (755–763 CE). The term itself refers to an official from Xin'an, but its significance is deeply tied to Du Fu's work, which exposes the brutality of forced conscription.

In modern usage, the term is rare outside historical or literary discussions. When used, it often alludes to themes of injustice, government oppression, or the suffering of ordinary people.

Character Breakdown

• 新 (Xīn): "New"
• 安 (Ān): "Peace" or "safe" (also part of "Xin'an," a place name)
• 吏 (Lì): "Official" or "clerk" (often refers to low-ranking government officials)

Together, the term describes an official associated with the Xin'an region.

3. Example Sentences

1. Chinese: 杜甫的《新安吏》描写了战争时期的百姓苦难。
   Pinyin: Dù Fǔ de "Xīn'ān Lì" miáoxiě le zhànzhēng shíqī de bǎixìng kǔnàn.
   English: Du Fu's "The Xin'an Official" depicts the suffering of common people during wartime.

2. Chinese: 新安吏在诗中象征了残酷的征兵制度。
   Pinyin: Xīn'ān lì zài shī zhōng xiàngzhēng le cánkù de zhēngbīng zhìdù.
   English: The Xin'an Official in the poem symbolizes the cruel conscription system.

3. Chinese: 这位历史人物就像新安吏一样，代表了那个时代的悲剧。
   Pinyin: Zhè wèi lìshǐ rénwù jiù xiàng Xīn'ān lì yīyàng, dàibiǎo le nàgè shídài de bēijù.
   English: This historical figure, like the Xin'an Official, represents the tragedy of that era.

Cultural Notes

• Du Fu's poem "新安吏" is part of his "Three Officials" series, which includes "石壕吏" (The Stone Moat Official) and "潼关吏" (The Tong Pass Official). These works are celebrated for their social criticism and empathy for the oppressed.
• The Xin'an region was historically significant during the Tang Dynasty, and the poem reflects the tension between government demands and civilian suffering during wartime.

Conclusion

"新安吏" (Xīn'ān lì) is a term rooted in Chinese history and literature, most famously associated with Du Fu's poignant critique of conscription. While rarely used in modern conversation, it remains a powerful symbol of bureaucratic oppression and human resilience. Learners encountering this word will likely find it in classical poetry or historical discussions.