This saying describes an extreme, irreconcilable enmity between two parties. It means one would rather die than coexist with the other person. Chinese people use it to express the deepest form of hatred or conflict.
This phrase comes from the Confucian classic 'Book of Rites', where it describes the duty to avenge a parent's murder. It reflects the traditional value of filial piety and the seriousness of blood feuds in ancient China.
This saying serves to mark the absolute boundary of social relationships, signaling that certain offenses are unforgivable. It reflects a cultural understanding that some conflicts transcend normal social repair — a way to legitimize extreme emotional responses and justify permanent severance.
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