there must be a clear distinction between the upper and lower classes; even new shoes must not be worn on the head
Proverb emphasizing that social hierarchy must be respected; things should be used in their proper place, no matter how new or fine they are. The literal image is that even brand-new shoes belong on the feet, not on the head.
The proverb 'even new shoes must not be worn on the head' teaches the importance of knowing one's place and role.
Standard kanji form using 靴 for 'shoe'.
Variant using 沓, an older or less common character for 'shoe'.
A Japanese rendering of a classical Chinese maxim that even new shoes are not placed on the head, illustrating the prescribed distinction between higher and lower positions.