Hanzi

In the hierarchical system of the Zhou Dynasty, 'Daifu' (大夫) was a rank below that of a feudal lord. This rank was further divided into two grades: the highest was called 'Qing,' or 'Shang Daifu' (上大夫, senior official), and the rest were 'Xia Daifu' (下大夫, junior official). Confucius (Kong Qiu) was a thinker, politician, and educator in the late Spring and Autumn period, as well as the founder of the Confucian school of thought. However, his status at the time was merely equivalent to a 'Xia Daifu'.

Confucius vigorously promoted the doctrine of 'Ren' (benevolence) and proposed that its implementation should be guided by 'Li' (rites/propriety). He strove to uphold the aristocratic hierarchical order, and thus, he was a person whose every action and word aimed to conform to the rites of Zhou.

Whether in his hometown or at court, and whether speaking with a Shang Daifu or a Xia Daifu, he adopted different manners and speech. Normally, when talking with fellow villagers in his hometown, he appeared gentle and humble, seemingly not very articulate. However, during sacrificial ceremonies and court audiences, he was quite eloquent, though still somewhat cautious.

At court, when the ruler was not present, he spoke freely and 'kan kan er tan' (confidently and eloquently) with the Xia Daifu, appearing unhurried. But when speaking with a Shang Daifu, he was amiable and exceedingly deferential. If the ruler was present, he would perform everything according to court protocol, with great care and caution, even fearing any impropriety.

It should be noted that the system of rites advocated by Confucius is an integral part of traditional Chinese culture and still holds certain positive significance even today.