📜 Thousand Character Classic — Chapter 14

Ceremony, Safety & Arts

Read Together

Two lines a day. Ask one question. Find one connection to life.

矫手顿足,悦豫且康。
jiǎo shǒu dùn zú, yuè yù qiě kāng
Clapping hands and stamping feet — glad and healthy. Rituals of joy show gratitude for peace and well‑being.
Parent note: Start a tiny family celebration dance for good news.
嫡后嗣续,祭祀烝尝。
dí hòu sì xù, jì sì zhēng cháng
The main line continues; rites and offerings are carried on. Families pass down care — remembering elders and traditions.
Parent note: Share a family story about an elder; light a candle to remember.
稽颡再拜,悚惧恐惶。
qǐ sǎng zài bài, sǒng jù kǒng huáng
Forehead to the ground, bowing twice; feeling awe and careful respect. Reverence teaches humility and safety at solemn moments.
Parent note: Practice a respectful greeting — eye contact, gentle voice, still hands.
笺牒简要,顾答审详。
jiān dié jiǎn yào, gù dá shěn xiáng
Keep letters and notes concise; answer thoughtfully and with care. Clear writing and careful replies prevent confusion.
Parent note: Write a short thank‑you note together — simple, clear, kind.
骸垢想浴,执热愿凉。
hái gòu xiǎng yù, zhí rè yuàn liáng
When dirty, one longs to bathe; in heat, one wishes for coolness. Basic needs remind us to care for body and comfort.
Parent note: Make a “self‑care checklist” — water, wash, rest, stretch.
驴骡犊特,骇跃超骧。
lǘ luó dú tè, hài yuè chāo xiāng
Donkeys, mules, calves, and great horses — startled, they leap and rear. Animals teach alertness and gentle handling.
Parent note: Talk about treating animals kindly; observe pets’ body language.
诛斩贼盗,捕获叛亡。
zhū zhǎn zéi dào, bǔ huò pàn wáng
Punish thieves and capture rebels. Justice protects the community from harm.
Parent note: Discuss rules: how do fair consequences keep everyone safe?
布射辽丸,嵇琴阮啸。
bù shè liáo wán, jī qín ruǎn xiào
Archery practice and far‑flying pellets; Ji Kang’s zither and Ruan Ji’s whistling. Balance strength with art — both body and spirit need training.
Parent note: Pick one physical skill and one art to practice this week.

Parent Prompts