In The Book of Songs, it states, “Observe the winding course of the Qi River, where reeds and lush rushes grow. The words and deeds of a noble person are akin to precise cutting of animal bones, meticulous polishing of ivory, careful shaping of jade, and thorough grinding of stone materials. They are dignified, majestic, and renowned for their virtue. A noble person of fine words and actions will never fade from memory.” “Precise cutting and meticulous polishing” symbolizes scholarly debate and discussion. “Careful carving and thorough grinding” mirrors self-cultivation. The sentence “they are dignified, majestic” portrays their serious and cautious demeanor. “Renowned for their virtue” implies they possess a dignified presence. The expression that “a noble person of fine words and actions will never fade from memory” signifies the noble person’s virtuous conduct is so noble that it remains unforgettable to the people. (The Book of Rites)

Zigong said, “One does not fawn on others when poor; one is not arrogant when rich. How do you find such quality?” Confucius said, “Good! But it is even better to be poor and upright and to be rich and courteous.” Zigong queried, “In The Book of Songs, it is written, ‘As the bone is cut, as the ivory is polished, as the jade is carved, as the stone is ground.’ Does this convey the same notion?”Confucius replied, “Zigong, now we can begin discussing The Book of Songs. When I share a concept with you, you are able to deduce its related saying on your own.” (The Analects)