In a recent visit to Anhui province, President Xi Jinping took a moment to explore a narrow alley known as Liu Chi Xiang, which stretches about 100 meters in length and 2 meters in width, flanked by stone archways at both ends. One of these archways bears the inscription “Li Rang,” which translates to “Letting Others Go First.”

This alley holds historical significance, rooted in the famous story of Zhang Wu Li Rang, which serves as a testament to mutual respect and harmony. Documented during the Qing Dynasty under Emperor Kangxi, the tale recounts how Zhang Ying, a high-ranking official, was approached by his family back home in Tongcheng. They were in a dispute over land boundaries with their neighbors, the Wu family. In response, Zhang penned a poetic letter that read, “A single letter is sent just for a wall; is it too much to yield three feet of space? The Great Wall remains, yet the days of Qin Shi Huang are gone.”

Upon receiving the poem, Zhang’s family realized their mistake and graciously agreed to cede the disputed land. Inspired by this gesture, the Wu family also agreed to compromise, which gave rise to the name “Liu Chi Xiang.” This story of humility and cooperation has become a symbol of traditional Chinese values.

Reflecting on this visit, Xi commented, “Coming here deeply resonates with me.” He emphasized the importance of drawing wisdom from ancient Chinese cultural heritage, urging for the promotion of harmony and mutual forbearance to tackle societal issues and alleviate conflicts.

Xi articulated the necessity of integrating traditional wisdom into modern governance, underscoring that the rich and profound history of Chinese civilization serves as a unique spiritual marker for the nation. He consistently advocates for the revitalization of traditional culture, highlighting its potential contributions to contemporary society.

Previously, he has spoken on various occasions about the relevance of Confucian thought in today’s context, urging scholars to creatively adapt traditional culture for modern times. “We must inherit and carry forward aspects of traditional culture that nurture social relationships and encourage virtue while reinterpreting them for contemporary relevance,” he stated during an international conference commemorating Confucius.

In light of this visit, it’s clear that Xi remains committed to fostering a cultural foundation for effective governance by blending historical insights with present-day challenges, reinforcing the vital role that traditional Chinese culture plays in shaping a harmonious society.