Meikyō Shisui (明鏡止水): A Heart Like a Clear Mirror

Image: The Japanese calligraphy for "明鏡止水"

What Does 明鏡止水 Mean?

This idiom literally translates to “a clear mirror and still water.”
It refers to a serene and undisturbed state of mind—free from worry, distraction, or emotional turbulence. Like a calm pond or a spotless mirror, it reflects things exactly as they are. Rooted in Zen philosophy, it’s often used to describe someone who possesses mental clarity, emotional balance, and deep focus.

Literally translated, the characters break down as:

明 (Mei) – clear or bright
鏡 (Kyō) – mirror
止 (Shi) – still
水 (Sui) – water

Together, they paint a picture of a mind as pure and calm as a mirror reflecting still water.

Why This Idiom Spoke to Me

Meikyō Shisui is one of the coolest idioms I’ve come across. It often appears in manga or video games as the name of a special move or technique, which shows how well-known and respected it is in Japanese pop culture.

What makes it so impressive is the sense of mental strength and elegance it carries. The imagery is also beautiful: a mirror without distortion and water that is perfectly still. It’s easy to grasp, yet deeply meaningful.

Compared to similar idioms like Taizen Jijaku (泰然自若) or Shinshoku Jijaku (神色自若), I think Meikyō Shisui is more about everyday composure and clarity. While the others focus on remaining calm during crises, Meikyō Shisui represents a baseline state of tranquility. They’re all very similar, but I see the nuance in when and how the calmness is applied.

How It Differs From Other Idioms

• 明鏡止水 = Tranquil by nature; inner clarity and spiritual peace.

• 泰然自若 = Calm when facing challenges; dignified stillness.

• 神色自若 = Emotionally unshaken even in danger; shows strong mental control.

While they all describe calmness, Meikyō Shisui leans more toward clarity and purity of heart, rather than just steadiness under pressure.

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