This entry explains idiom “Bu shi zhou su”, originating from Records of the Grand Historian. Based on Bo Yi and Shu Qi’s story, it symbolizes moral integrity: refusing benefits from a regime deemed unjust, with nuanced positive‑critical readings.
Mencius portrays three archetypal sages: pure Bo Yi, mission-driven Yi Yin, and accommodating Liu Xia Hui. He regards Confucius as the timely sage who balances all virtues, a fully accomplished sage uniting wisdom and moral strength with musical and archery metaphors.