Proverb / Kotowaza
陰徳あれば陽報あり
Doing good deeds in secret will inevitably lead to a visible reward.
If there is hidden virtue, there is visible reward
Quick Answer
Doing good deeds in secret will inevitably lead to a visible reward.
- Literal Image
- If there is hidden virtue, there is visible reward
- Closest Equivalent
- Virtue is its own reward
- How to Use It
- Used when someone is finally recognized or rewarded for their quiet, consistent hard work or kindness that they performed without expecting anything in return.
Meaning
This proverb teaches that virtuous acts performed without seeking recognition or praise will eventually result in positive outcomes that are clear for all to see. It emphasizes the idea that good deeds are never truly lost, even if they are done in private. The term 'hidden virtue' refers to kindness or charity performed away from the public eye, while 'visible reward' refers to the positive manifestation of those acts.
Literal Image
If there is hidden virtue, there is visible reward
Equivalent Proverbs
Virtue is its own reward
Focuses on intrinsic reward rather than a visible external outcome.
Good deeds are never forgotten
Focuses on the memory of the act rather than a specific reward.
How to Use It
Used when someone is finally recognized or rewarded for their quiet, consistent hard work or kindness that they performed without expecting anything in return.
Tone
A formal and moralizing proverb can be used to encourage selfless behavior or to explain an unexpected positive outcome for a good person.
Examples
陰徳あれば陽報ありというように、誰も見ていないところで善いことをしていた彼が評価される日が来た。
Just as the saying 'hidden virtue brings visible rewards' suggests, the day finally came when he was recognized for the good deeds he had done when no one was watching.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
The proverb uses formal kanji compounds like 'intoku' and 'yoho' and a classical grammar structure (areba... ari) which are typical of high-level Japanese literature.
陰徳
いんとく / intoku
hidden virtue; secret good deed
陽報
ようほう / yoho
visible reward; public recognition
善行
ぜんこう / zenko
good deed
Usage Profile
Usage note: It can sound a bit preachy if used to tell someone what to do, rather than explaining a result.
Misread Risk
Do not confuse 'intoku' with simply being sneaky; it specifically refers to doing good things in secret.
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Related Proverbs
Origin
This expression originates from the Chinese classic 'Huainanzi' (淮南子). It is rooted in Confucian and Buddhist concepts of causality, specifically reflecting the idea that virtuous actions lead to positive consequences.
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Source Note
Where did this entry get its data from? The reference links are listed below. To understand how to read this section, see Data Sources.