Learn from the rise and fall of past generations and examine the gains and losses of today: draw on the history of the rise and fall of past dynasties to examine the gains and losses of today.

The words come from "Zi Zhi Tong Jian". A multi-volume chronological history book edited by Sima Guang of the Northern Song Dynasty, ***294 volumes

"Zizhi" means to help rule: "Tong" means to pass through the history of the dynasties before the Northern Song Dynasty: "Jian" It means looking in the mirror, which means warning and teaching. "Zi Zhi Tong Jian" means to learn from the rise and fall of the past dynasties in order to help rulers consolidate their rule.