This saying means that a magnanimous or superior person should forgive the mistakes or offenses of those who are less mature or of lower status. It is a call for generosity and forbearance.
This reflects the Confucian ideal of the moral superior who is expected to be lenient and forgiving, thereby demonstrating their moral superiority.
Chinese people use this saying to encourage forgiveness and to maintain hierarchical harmony. It signals that showing mercy is a sign of high moral character and social maturity.
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