To be so eager to receive worthy visitors or recruit talented people that one would interrupt eating or washing one's hair to meet them; to show great earnestness in seeking out and honoring talent.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Western Zhou Dynasty, King Cheng carried on his father's legacy by enfeoffing various lords. He appointed Bo Qin as the Marquis of Lu. The Duke of Zhou, Bo Qin's brother, congratulated him and offered advice.
The Duke reminded Bo Qin of his distinguished lineage, being the son of King Wen, brother of King Wu, and uncle of the current King Cheng. He urged Bo Qin to remember this and, most importantly, to value and recruit talented individuals with utmost sincerity.
He famously said, 'You must interrupt washing your hair three times during a single bath and spit out food three times during a single meal' (一沐三握发，一饭三吐哺), illustrating the dedication and urgency required to attract and honor capable people.