To rigidly adhere to outdated rules or conventional practices, unwilling to adapt or innovate; to be hidebound or stuck in one's ways.
Era:
Early Modern
Frequency:
Story:
During the Warring States period, Mozi, who came from a background as a carpenter, advocated for universal love and non-aggression, promoting his doctrines everywhere.
When the Chu state planned to attack the Song state, Lu Ban designed siege ladders for the Chu army. Mozi urgently went to dissuade them from this war.
The King of Chu arranged a contest between Mozi and Lu Ban, a drill of offense and defense. Mozi excelled at defense, and Lu Ban was defeated. The King of Chu had no choice but to abandon the attack on the Song state.
This story illustrates Mozi's adherence to his principles, particularly in defense, which later became associated with rigidly sticking to established rules.