phúc hoạ đạo trời
Definition
- Idiom (Thành ngữ):
- The way of heaven brings fortune and calamity: A philosophical idiom expressing the belief that the fortune or misfortune a person encounters in life is determined by the will of heaven (a higher, cosmic order or fate), and is not merely random or accidental. It conveys a sense of predestination or cosmic justice.
Usage Examples
- Idiom:
- Đừng quá lo lắng, phúc hoạ đạo trời, mọi chuyện rồi sẽ có số phận của nó. (Don't worry too much; the way of heaven brings fortune and calamity. Everything will follow its own destiny.)
- Ông cụ thường bảo phúc hoạ đạo trời, ở hiền thì sẽ gặp lành. (The old man often said that fortune and calamity are heaven's way, and that kindness will be met with kindness.)
Advanced Usage
- This idiom is typically used in reflective, philosophical, or consoling contexts. It is employed to explain life's unpredictable turns, to encourage acceptance of one's circumstances, or to advocate for virtuous living in the belief that heaven will ultimately reward or punish accordingly.
- It often carries a tone of resignation to fate or a higher power, rather than promoting proactive change.
Variants and Related Words
- Phúc đức tại mẫu (Idiom): Virtue/Fortune lies with the mother. (A related concept about the source of blessing.)
- Ở hiền gặp lành (Idiom): Be good, meet good. (A more active, cause-and-effect proverb about virtue leading to good fortune.)
- Số phận (n): Destiny, fate.
- Thiên mệnh (n): Heavenly mandate, divine will.
Synonyms
- The decrees of fate: The predetermined course of events.
- Heaven's will: The intent or plan of a celestial power.
- Divine justice: The concept of cosmic reward and punishment.
Related Idioms
- Họa vô đơn chí, phúc bất trùng lai: Misfortune never comes alone, but good fortune does not return. (A proverb about the nature of luck.)
- Đức năng thắng số: Virtue can overcome fate. (A contrasting belief that moral conduct can alter one's predestined path.)