Zixia puts forward a balanced moral standard: never cross the line on core moral principles, yet allow flexibility for trivial daily etiquette. This dialectical view urges people to stick to major integrity while being lenient over minor flaws.
Confucius traced his teachings back to Yao and Shun,and took Wen and Wu as his models for institutions.Above, he conformed to the rhythms of Heaven’s seasons;below, he followed the patterns of earth, water, and soil.