Zilu meets a farming hermit who mocks scholars for avoiding labor yet treats Zilu politely. When Zilu returns, the hermit has left. Zilu argues seclusion abandons ruler-minister ethics; gentlemen serve to uphold righteousness even knowing their ideals will fail.
Two farming hermits mock Confucius’ futile political efforts and urge seclusion from a chaotic world. Distressed yet resolute, Confucius states he must stand with humanity, striving to reform the world precisely because the Dao does not prevail.
Zigong said, “Suppose there is a fine jade here – should we keep it stored away in a case, or should we look for a good buyer and sell it?” Confucius replied, “Sell it! Sell it! I am waiting for the right buyer.”