This means that problems or accusations usually have some basis — if someone is being criticized or attacked, there may be a real flaw or fault to begin with. It implies that blame is often triggered by one's own weakness.
A common Chinese proverb used to suggest that external trouble often finds those who are already vulnerable or at fault, similar to 'where there's smoke, there's fire.'
It shifts focus from the attacker to the victim, reminding people to self-reflect. In Chinese social logic, maintaining one's own integrity is the best defense against criticism.
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