Four Seas

In traditional Chinese thought and historical contexts, "Four Seas" (四海, sì hǎi) refers to the metaphorical boundaries of the known world, encompassing all directions and territories. It represents the extent of the Chinese realm or the civilized world, ruled by the Emperor.

The concept does not refer to actual bodies of water, though its literal translation implies seas. Rather, it symbolizes the borders and areas surrounding the central kingdom (China) in all four cardinal directions: East, South, West, and North. Metaphorically, "all within the Four Seas" (四海之内, sì hǎi zhī nèi) is equivalent to "the whole world" or "everywhere under heaven."

The phrase is frequently used in classical Chinese literature, poetry, and historical texts to express the universal influence and responsibility of the Emperor, who was expected to maintain peace and order throughout the entire world encompassed within the Four Seas. It also conveys a sense of unity and shared culture within the defined boundaries. Over time, it became synonymous with the Chinese Empire and the Han Chinese cultural sphere of influence.

The term is still used today, often with nostalgic or poetic connotations, to evoke a sense of shared identity and connection among Chinese people globally, regardless of geographical location. It can also be used more generally to refer to the entire world or a vast, undefined expanse.