Recluse Ren Tang taught the Spring and Autumn Annals and refused official summons. He sent silent symbolic reminders of integrity, punishing tyrants and caring for youth and the old to Governor Pang Can. Villagers revered him with a portrait after his death.
Confucius pretended to be sick to avoid Ru Bei, yet played and sang on the lute once the messenger left. This silent rebuke saved Ru Bei’s dignity while prompting self-reflection, showing his subtle, deed-based educational wisdom instead of harsh verbal criticism.