also: たいぎおやをほろぼす
expression
sacrifice family for a greater cause
A set phrase expressing the idea that one must sometimes put a higher moral or public duty above personal family ties. Often used in historical or dramatic contexts.
彼は大義親を滅すの覚悟で、国に尽くした。
He served his country with the resolve to sacrifice family for a greater cause.
大義親を滅すという言葉は、忠義と孝行の板挟みを表している。
The phrase 'taigi shin o messu' represents the dilemma between loyalty and filial piety.
While 大義親を滅す emphasizes sacrificing family for a greater cause, 忠孝両全 refers to the ideal of fulfilling both loyalty to one's lord and filial piety without conflict.
Derived from classical Chinese thought, where loyalty to the state or a higher moral principle could override personal family obligations. The exact historical origin is uncertain, but it reflects a common theme in Confucian-influenced literature.