To commend a local official for their benevolent and effective governance, where their moral influence is so profound that people spontaneously abide by rules and good conduct, even in the absence of direct supervision.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Story:
During the Spring and Autumn period, Mi Zixian served as a local official in Danfu.
After three years, Wu Maqi visited Danfu incognito. He observed a fisherman fishing at night, who, upon catching fish, would release them back into the river.
Wu Maqi, intrigued, asked the fisherman his reason. The fisherman explained that Mi Zixian had prohibited people from catching small fish.
Wu Maqi returned and reported to Confucius that Mi Zixian's moral influence and education were so profound and effective that the local people conscientiously followed his regulations.