This means teaching by one’s deeds as opposed to explaining in words. Originally it referred to a ruler who should not just issue orders and tell people what to do. Rather, he should set an example to his subjects with his own actions as a model of virtue, thereby achieving the goal of good order in society. This has something in common with the principle of “rule by man.” Later it turned into an educational concept: Teachers should not only teach their students by words; they should also, in their own actual conduct, be an example to the students in scholarship and cultivation of virtue, so as to guide them and reach the goal of education. There are well-known sayings in China like “making oneself an example” and “to be a model teacher to others."