Li (rites) and yue (music) are a whole set of social norms for regulating individuals’ conduct and their relationships with other people as well as everything else in nature and even ghosts and spirits. These norms involve ceremonial vessels, rituals, and systems which were designed and established for various levels. Rites are hierarchical systems, and music harmonizes the thoughts and emotions opeople in different ranks. The two complement each other to maintain socialorder and achieve the ideal rule with benevolence. Confucianism believes that the social norms featuring rituals and music of the Zhou Dynasty were established and created by the kings of the time according to their understanding of natural laws and human sentiment. Such social norms epitomize their respect and proper expressions of the law of nature and human feelings.

King Wu of the Zhou Dynasty died and his successor King Cheng was still very young, so the Duke of Zhou performed the duties of governing the country on King Cheng’s behalf. In the sixth year, the Duke of Zhou summoned all heads of dukedoms to the Hall of Brightness to establish social norms in the form of rituals and music and promulgate standard measurements. He thus commanded the allegiance of the entire country. (The Book of Rites)