Self-respect and dignity are paramount. People will endure hardship or conflict to protect their honor, just as a Buddha statue is honored by the incense offered to it. It emphasizes the importance of 'face'.
The concept of 'face' (面子) is central to Chinese social psychology. This saying legitimizes the pursuit of respect and warns against humiliating others, as it can provoke extreme reactions.
This saying validates the emotional need for respect. It signals that while survival is important, living without dignity is worse—a key value in a collectivist culture where social standing is tied to one's sense of self.
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