"Haz el bien sin mirar a quién."
/ahs el BYEN seen mee-RAHR ah KYEN/
Do good without looking at who benefits.
💡 Understanding the Quote
"Haz el bien sin mirar a quién."
🎨 Visual Representation
The proverb encourages universal kindness, offered freely without regard to who the recipient is.
📖 Context
A traditional Spanish proverb (refrán) with anonymous origins. It is not from a specific literary work but is deeply embedded in the cultural and moral fabric of the Spanish-speaking world.
📝 In Action
No importa si te lo agradecen o no. Como dice el refrán, haz el bien sin mirar a quién.
B2It doesn't matter if they thank you or not. As the saying goes, do good without regard to who it is.
Mi abuela siempre vivía según el lema 'haz el bien sin mirar a quién', y ayudaba a todos en el barrio.
B1My grandmother always lived by the motto 'do good for anyone', and she helped everyone in the neighborhood.
✍️ About the Author
📜 Historical Context
This proverb's origins are ancient and reflect ethical principles, particularly Judeo-Christian values of charity and selfless love, that are foundational in Spanish culture. It echoes concepts like the 'Good Samaritan'—helping others without prejudice. Over centuries, it has become a piece of secular folk wisdom passed down through generations.
🌍 Cultural Significance
This is a fundamental moral guideline in Spanish-speaking cultures, often taught to children as a basic principle of good character. It represents an ideal of altruism and community support, frequently used to encourage generosity, compassion, and civic duty.
📚 Literary Analysis
The power of this proverb lies in its concise, commanding structure. It starts with a direct imperative verb, 'Haz' (Do), making it a clear instruction. The phrase 'sin mirar a quién' is a powerful idiom that means 'indiscriminately' or 'without prejudice.' This simple construction makes the moral command both memorable and impactful.
⭐ Usage Tips
Encouraging Altruism
Use this proverb to encourage someone to perform a kind act without worrying about the recipient or potential rewards. It's perfect for conversations about charity, volunteering, or simple daily kindness.
Expressing a Moral Philosophy
This saying is a powerful way to describe your own or someone else's moral code. Stating 'Yo creo en haz el bien sin mirar a quién' clearly expresses a belief in unconditional kindness.
🔗 Related Quotes
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: Haz el bien sin mirar a quién.
Question 1 of 2
What is the main message of 'Haz el bien sin mirar a quién'?
🏷️ Categories
Themes:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a religious quote?
While its message aligns with the teachings of many religions, especially Christian principles of charity, it has become a secular proverb in the Spanish language. People of all beliefs use it to express the universal value of unconditional kindness.
Is there a common English equivalent?
There isn't a single famous proverb in English that captures the exact meaning as poetically. The closest ideas are expressed in phrases like 'Kindness is as kindness does' or 'Virtue is its own reward,' but the Spanish 'refrán' is more direct in its instruction to be indiscriminate with your goodness.