The characters literally combine to mean “change from the evil and return to the righteous.” This structure makes the meaning clear and forceful.
The concept of 改邪归正 is deeply rooted in Chinese cultural and philosophical values, particularly those influenced by Confucianism, which emphasizes self-cultivation, moral rectitude, and the potential for every individual to become a better person (修身, xiūshēn). It reflects a societal belief in redemption. While punishment for wrongdoing is necessary, the culture holds a strong hope that individuals can see the error of their ways and consciously choose to reform. This is seen as a victory not just for the individual, but for their family and for society as a whole, as it restores harmony. Compared to the Western phrase “to turn over a new leaf,” 改邪归正 carries a heavier moral weight. “Turning over a new leaf” can be as simple as starting a new diet. 改邪归正, however, implies that the previous “leaf” was stained with something seriously wrong—crime, heresy, or profound immorality (the “邪”). The return is not just to a “new” path, but specifically to the “正道 (zhèng dào)“—the single, righteous path acknowledged by society.
改邪归正 is a formal and somewhat literary idiom. You won't hear it used for trivial matters.
Its connotation is overwhelmingly positive and hopeful, celebrating the human capacity for change and redemption.