- English translation
Doing good never makes a person less; it only adds to the excellence they already have.
- Literal wording
I have never seen kindness diminish its owner; rather, it adds perfection upon perfection.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying denies that generosity or helpfulness ever costs the giver anything of real value. Whatever a kind act seems to take away in effort, means, or status, it does not leave the doer lessened in character or esteem.
It then reverses that denial with a positive claim: good deeds build on whatever merit a person already has. Each kindness adds another layer of honor, so someone already admirable becomes more admirable still. The doubled word for perfection signals mounting excellence, not literal flawlessness.
- When it is used
Suited to encouraging someone who hesitates to help others for fear of losing standing or resources, or to praising a generous person. It works as a reassuring remark that doing good raises one's worth rather than lowering it.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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