Move heaven and earth
Meaning
To make every possible effort or go to extreme lengths to achieve a goal.
Origin
Ancient cultures, long before the English phrase solidified, understood the sheer impossibility of altering the cosmic order. From Greek gods who could shake the heavens to biblical descriptions of divine power over all creation, the concept of "moving heaven and earth" became a vivid metaphor for an effort so colossal it would defy natural law. It emerged into English as a testament to unparalleled determination, urging one to strive with a force akin to reshaping the very fabric of existence to achieve an otherwise unattainable goal.
Examples
- She promised to move heaven and earth to get her daughter into that prestigious university.
- The rescue team moved heaven and earth to find the missing hiker before nightfall.