hidden virtue; merit recorded in the afterlife
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
good deeds done secretly; hidden acts of kindness
Emphasizes that the good deed is done without seeking recognition, publicity, or reward. Often used in the phrase 积阴德.
He made anonymous donations, performing many hidden acts of kindness.
Doing good without leaving a name—this is accumulating hidden virtue.
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Although he is wealthy, he never shows off and often accumulates hidden merit by helping the poor.
noun
(in superstition) merit accumulated in the human world and recorded in the netherworld
formalA concept in traditional Chinese folk religion and Buddhism, where good deeds are believed to be recorded as merit (功) in the afterlife (阴间), bringing good fortune to oneself or descendants.
Superstitious people believe that accumulating much hidden merit will result in good rewards in the netherworld after death.
According to traditional beliefs, building bridges and paving roads is a way to accumulate hidden virtue, and such merit can be recorded in the netherworld.
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Grandma always said that accumulating hidden virtue throughout one's life brings good rewards in the next life.