In ancient legend, there was a man of great moral integrity named Xu You, who lived as a hermit on Mount Ji and was deeply respected by all.
The legendary sage-king Yao once decided to offer his throne to the hermit Xu You. Yao said, "When the sun and moon have risen, why keep a torch burning? Its light is utterly insignificant compared to theirs! When timely rain has fallen, why waste effort watering the fields? If I continue to occupy the ruler's seat, I feel nothing but shame. Please allow me to entrust the world to you, sir—I am certain you will govern it excellently!"
When offered the throne, Xu You declined, saying, 'You have already governed the realm well—why should I replace you? The wren builds its nest in the deep forest, needing only a single branch; the mole drinks from the river, filling just its belly. Enough, my lord! The world is useless to me.'
Xu You continued with an analogy: "Even if the chef does not prepare the sacrificial offerings, the master of ceremonies will not overstep his duties to take the chef's place. Therefore, even if you abandon the rule of the world, I will certainly not take your place!"
Having spoken, Xu You went down to the fields to begin his farming work.
Later, people used the idiom "Yue Zu Dai Pao" to describe overstepping one's authority or doing things for others.
Source: *Zhuangzi*, "Free and Easy Wandering"
Meaning of the Idiom: Later, the Chinese idiom "越俎代疱" came to describe overstepping one's authority or doing things for others.