expression
so content one would not mind dying; one can now rest in peace; one ought to be contented with what has been accomplished
Idiomatic expression conveying a deep sense of fulfillment or satisfaction, often used when someone feels they have achieved enough in life to die without regret. Can be used literally or hyperbolically.
この景色を見られただけで、以て瞑すべしだ。
Just being able to see this view, I could die content.
彼は「これで以て瞑すべし」と言って、静かに息を引き取った。
He said, 'Now I can rest in peace,' and quietly passed away.
Standard kanji spelling for this idiomatic expression.
Kana spelling of the first part; common in modern usage.
Irregular okurigana usage; less common variant.
The expression combines 以て (もって, 'with' or 'by means of') and 瞑すべし (めいすべし), an archaic volitional form of 瞑する (to close one's eyes, a euphemism for dying). The overall meaning is 'with this, one should close one's eyes,' i.e., one can die content.