During the Spring and Autumn period, after being marginalized in the political scene of the State of Lu, Confucius led his disciples on a journey across various states. They received little recognition in places like Wey and Song.

On their way to the State of Jin, Zilu advised Confucius against seeking patronage from a petty man like Zhao Yang.

However, Confucius, believing himself to be a junzi (a noble person), declared that he would be 'ground but not thin, dyed but not black' (磨而不磷，涅而不缁), signifying his unwavering integrity and refusal to compromise his noble character, thus preserving his reputation.