When autumn arrived, the waters of all rivers rose and flowed into the Yellow River. Its surface widened immensely, making it impossible to see the cattle and sheep on the opposite bank from one side. The river deity, Hebo, swelled with pride and considered himself the greatest in the world.
Hebo followed the Yellow River to the North Sea. Gazing eastward, he could not see its bounds. Looking at himself, he felt tiny and insignificant. He sighed and said to Hairuo, the deity of the North Sea, "As the saying goes, 'A person with a little knowledge tends to think himself the wisest under heaven.' I am just such a person. Seeing your vastness and greatness today, I realize my own insignificance and ignorance. Had I not met you, I fear I would always be laughed at by the knowledgeable."
Hairuo replied, "We cannot discuss the sea with a frog at the bottom of a well, for it is confined by its dwelling. We cannot talk of ice with a summer insect, for it is bound by the seasons. We cannot speak of profound learning with a shallow person, for their knowledge is too limited. Now you have left your small river for the North Sea, witnessed its greatness, and recognized your own smallness. With this newfound humility, I can now discuss profound learning with you."