Meaning & Analysis
The direct consequence of an action will be experienced by the person who performed it; your deeds will determine your own future experiences.
Insights
Karma and Retribution
The proverb serves as a statement on cosmic justice or karma, suggesting that the universe maintains a moral balance by ensuring that individuals receive the same treatment they give to others.
Empathy Through Experience
It implies that true empathy and understanding of the impact of one's actions can only be achieved by personally experiencing the results of those actions.
Social Reciprocity
In a social context, the proverb functions as a principle of reciprocity. The way you treat others will directly influence how they, in turn, treat you.
Principle of Retributive Justice
This proverb reflects the ancient legal principle of *lex talionis* ('an eye for an eye'), a cornerstone of retributive justice in early legal codes, suggesting a societal need for proportional consequences.
Cross-Cultural Moral Tenet
The concept is a universal moral tenet, appearing as karma in Eastern religions and as divine judgment in Abrahamic traditions (e.g., 'whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap'), highlighting a global human desire for a morally ordered universe.
Psychological Implication
Psychologically, the proverb speaks to the idea that our actions shape our internal state. Malicious acts can breed guilt and anxiety, meaning one 'feels' the consequences internally, regardless of external punishment.
Rhetorical Devices
Parallelism
The balanced structure 'As you have DONE... so shall you feel' creates a memorable and impactful statement by directly linking the cause (action) with the effect (consequence).
Direct Address
The use of the second-person 'you' makes the proverb a direct and personal warning or piece of moral advice, engaging the listener directly.
Brevity and Rhythm
The proverb's concise and rhythmic quality, using simple, powerful verbs like 'done' and 'feel', makes it easy to remember and quote.
Transcription
Quotations
So the common prouerbe was verified, as you haue done, so shall you feele.
Cross References
Related Proverbs
Original Scan

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