| | The hat is used to distinguish an adult; cultivating virtue and restraining one's conduct for self-discipline serves to check evil thoughts and safeguard upright intentions. When a gentleman first receives the adult hat, he must offer blessings and complete the ceremony. The capping rite is performed to dedicate his heart. Therefore, when a gentleman becomes an adult, he must wear the cap and sash in all affairs, abandoning childish playfulness and laziness, and instead earnestly pursuing virtue and scholarly achievement with sincerity and determination. Therefore, even if one's attire does not fully reflect the proper image, as long as their inner heart remains unchanged in virtue—cultivating morality within and adorning oneself with rites externally—one thereby achieves a distinguished and honorable reputation. Therefore, the pi bian cap made of plain white cloth has remained unchanged by all rulers throughout history; it is used both for cultivating virtue and for maintaining proper appearance. Confucius said: "Straighten one's clothing and hat, raise one's gaze with dignity; thus, people look upon him with reverence and awe. Is this not being dignified without being fierce?"
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