This extended saying adds that just as you shouldn't physically hit someone's face, you shouldn't verbally attack their vulnerabilities or past mistakes. It's a rule of respectful communication—avoid humiliating others, even in anger.
This reflects the Confucian emphasis on benevolence (仁) and propriety (礼) in speech. In a society where 'face' is paramount, exposing someone's weaknesses is seen as a severe breach of etiquette that destroys trust.
This saying serves as a social contract for conflict resolution. It signals that true strength lies in restraint, and that preserving another's dignity is more important than winning an argument. It's a guide for maintaining long-term relationships.
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