It means ‘endurance through adversity in life for the sake of vengeance’. Sometimes, we use it when we are hungry for vengeance or if we have a strong desire to avenge.
臥薪(ga-shin) = When translated, it means ‘sleeping on firewood’. You might think it’s weird but wait until we associate it with other Kanji.
嘗胆(syou-tan) = It can be literally translated as ‘licking gallbladder’. I know it’s kind of weird too and it doesn’t make sense.
However, if we connect these characters together, we form a strong message.
臥薪嘗胆 = This means to endure adversity in life for the sake of vengeance. This phrase originated from a Chinese story. Once, Yue (an ancient Chinese state) had a new King named Goujian. He was captured by Fuchai (from the state of Wu) when he defeated Yue. For ten years, Goujian suffered from injustice as he was forced to sleep on firewood and eat gallbladder. This adversity made him very resilient until one day, he managed to successfully avenge his state and eliminate the state of Wu.
If you are interested in these Kanji, you may simply copy them from this website and use them as you please. Make them yours!
