Used as a courtesy title for predecessors in ancient times.

There were predecessors, pioneers, sages and so on in ancient times.

In ancient society, people often used some appellations to show respect and awe for their predecessors. Among them, ancestors refer to people whose age or status is earlier than their own, and respect for them reflects respect for their experience and wisdom. Xianda emphasizes the outstanding achievements and pioneering contributions of predecessors in a certain field or aspect, which is a praise for their knowledge and talents. The sages paid more attention to the moral quality and noble conduct of their predecessors, which was a praise for their moral cultivation and life. The use of these appellations reflects the respect and admiration of ancient society for its predecessors, and also reflects the importance attached to traditional culture and values.