The term refers to the exercise of benevolent government by virtuous and wise rulers in ancient China to win the allegiance of all the vassals, so as to achieve an integration and acculturation of different tribes, nations or ethnic groups and create a harmonious and unified alliance of tribes or a multi-ethnic state. Harmonious coexistence of all is a key feature of the concept of social harmony in Chinese culture and one of the core values of the Chinese nation.

(Emperor Yao) was able to promote moral values, so that amity prevailed in his clan. He then clarified the hierarchical order of tribal officials. Only when this was done could all vassal states, big and small, prosper in harmony, and the people become friendly with each other. (The Book of History)