Japanese meaning of 盛者必衰
Reading:
じょうしゃひっすい (jōsha hissui)
English Translation:
The mighty must fall
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
The prosperity of the powerful will not last forever.
Cultural Context:
From Buddhist teachings, emphasizing impermanence of all things.
栄えている者もいつかは必ず衰えること。
仏教の教えから来ており、すべてのものは必ず衰えることを示す。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase used with “だ” or “である.”
Trap for English Speakers
Often mistaken as only about people, but applies to organizations and events too.
Example
Basic Example
盛者必衰、どんな権力も永遠ではない。
The mighty must fall; no power lasts forever.
Applied Example
全盛を誇った王国も盛者必衰の理から逃れられなかった。
Even the most prosperous kingdom could not escape the truth that all glory must fade.