[Source] Sima Qian, "Records of the Grand Historian: Biographies of Lian Po and Lin Xiangru" (Western Han Dynasty).
[Meaning] "Fu" means to carry on one's back; "Jing" refers to a thorny bush, a deciduous shrub about four or five feet tall with hard stems that can be used as a rod. Carrying thorny branches on one's back symbolizes admitting guilt and personally apologizing to the wronged party. It describes taking the initiative to admit a mistake, sincerely apologize, and request punishment.
[Historical Story]
During the Warring States period, the State of Zhao had two capable officials—one military and one civil. The military general was Lian Po, a brave and skilled warrior who led his troops to numerous victories against states such as Qi and Wei, earning a reputation for valor among the feudal lords. The civil official was Lin Xiangru, a man of both courage and wisdom who remained fearless in the face of the powerful King of Qin. Lin Xiangru was sent twice as an envoy to Qin: the first time, he successfully protected the priceless He Shi Bi jade, ensuring it was returned intact to Zhao ("Returning the Jade Unharmed"); the second time, he accompanied the King of Zhao to the "Meeting at Mianchi," hosted by the King of Qin. Both missions restored Zhao's dignity, and after these events, the King of Qin no longer dared to look down upon Zhao. As a result, the King of Zhao first appointed Lin Xiangru as a senior official, and later promoted him to the high rank of "Shangqing," placing him above General Lian Po in status.
Lian Po was deeply resentful of Lin Xiangru's higher position. He thought to himself: "What real ability does Lin Xiangru have? He's just good at talking. I, Lian Po, am the true hero who has served the nation!" He even said to his subordinates: "If I ever meet Lin Xiangru, I'll make sure he tastes my strength—I'd like to see what he can do to me!"
When Lin Xiangru heard of this, he decided to feign illness and avoid going to court, so as to prevent conflict with Lian Po. He also instructed his own attendants to yield whenever they encountered Lian Po's men, and under no circumstances to quarrel with them. However, fate brought them together: one day, as Lin Xiangru was traveling by carriage, he happened to meet Lian Po approaching from the opposite direction. Lin Xiangru immediately ordered his driver to pull into a side alley to let Lian Po's entourage pass first.
Lin Xiangru's attendants were furious and criticized their master for being cowardly and afraid of Lian Po. Smiling, Lin Xiangru asked them: "Who is more formidable—Lian Po or the King of Qin?" They replied, "Certainly the King of Qin is more formidable." Lin Xiangru continued: "If I am not afraid of the King of Qin, why would I fear Lian Po? You must understand—Qin does not dare to attack Zhao now precisely because our civil and military leaders stand united. The two of us are like two tigers; if we fight, one or both will be injured, giving Qin the perfect opportunity to invade Zhao. Just think: which is more important, the nation's welfare or personal pride? That is why I would rather endure and yield."
When these words reached Lian Po, he felt deeply ashamed. One day, he stripped to the waist, tied a bundle of thorny branches to his back, and went to Lin Xiangru's residence to apologize. Lin Xiangru hurriedly helped Lian Po to his feet. From then on, the two became the closest of friends. Together, one as a civil minister and one as a military general, they jointly defended the State of Zhao.