The Book of Odes (Book of Poetry) says:“Look at the bend of the Qi River – lush green bamboo grows thick and fair.There is a refined gentleman,like bone being cut and filed, like jade being carved and polished.Solemn and resolute, illustrious and majestic!Such a refined gentleman – truly unforgettable!”
Mencius said, “Benevolence brings glory, whereas its absence leads to disgrace. Now people hate disgrace and benevolence, just like those who hate dampness but live in a low-lying area.
Mencius said: “He who uses force under the guise of benevolence achieves hegemony. Hegemony requires a great state. But he who practices benevolence through virtue achieves true kingship – and kingship does not depend on size. King Tang ruled with only seventy li of territory; King Wen with only a hundred li.”