yǐ以dé德bào报dé德
To repay kindness with kindness; to return good for good.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Antonym:
Story:
During the Spring and Autumn period, someone asked Confucius if it was appropriate to repay those who harbored resentment with kindness.
Confucius replied, "If I were to repay those who resent me with kindness, then how should I repay those who have shown me kindness?"
He continued, "Therefore, it is better to guide those who resent me with righteous principles. As for those who have shown me kindness, I should certainly repay them with kindness and gratitude."