During the late Eastern Han dynasty, the peasant rebellion led by Zhang Jiao surrounded Kong Rong’s troops stationed at Duchang. Kong Rong sent Taishi Ci to request reinforcements from Liu Bei, the governor of Pingyuan. Taishi Ci reported that Kong Rong was in imminent danger (“danger at dawn and dusk”), prompting Liu Bei to dispatch 3,000 elite soldiers. Upon seeing the reinforcements, the rebel forces lifted the siege immediately.

Summary

  • Idiom: 危在旦夕
  • Pinyin: wēi zài dàn xī
  • Literal Translation: danger at dawn and dusk
  • Extended Meaning: Describes a situation where danger is imminent and immediate action is necessary.

Character Introduction

  • 孔融 (Kong Rong): A notable official besieged by rebels during the Eastern Han turmoil.
  • 太史慈 (Taishi Ci): A brave general sent to seek help, who conveyed the urgency of the situation.
  • 刘备 (Liu Bei): Governor of Pingyuan who quickly responded to the rescue call and sent troops to save Kong Rong.