Mencius argues scholars must not attach to lords as dependents. They may accept ruler’s relief but not unearned personal gifts. True respect for worthies means steady material support plus official power, not frequent trivial favors that humiliate virtuous men like Zisi.
The Master said:“Loving learning brings one near to wisdom;exerting oneself in practice brings one near to benevolence;knowing shame brings one near to courage.”
Zixia said, “A man who values people for their virtue and talent, and honoring noble qualities above external appearances, who into serving father and mother knows how to put his whole strength, who in the service of his prince will lay down his life, who in intercourse with friends is true to his word…