During the Spring and Autumn Period, Confucius traveled around various states with his disciples. While idly staying in the State of Chen, he discussed self-cultivation with his students.

Confucius believed that a 'shi' (a scholar or noble person) should possess three excellent qualities: 'the benevolent are free from anxiety, the wise are free from perplexity, and the brave are free from fear.' He then categorized 'shi' into three types: those who 'do not disgrace their lord's command and serve their state with dedication'; those who 'are filial and fraternal, serving as models for their neighbors'; and those who 'are trustworthy in word and resolute in deed, keeping promises worth a thousand pieces of gold'.