Was du nicht willst, dass man dir tu', das füg' auch keinem andern zu.
Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
Meaning
Treat others as you wish to be treated yourself.
Cultural Background
It is a staple of civic education in schools. Similar usage, often used in rural areas to teach community values. Used in the context of 'Anstand' (decency) in public life. It is the secularized version of the Golden Rule found in many Western cultures.
Focus on the rhyme
The rhyme 'tu' and 'zu' makes it easy to remember.
Don't over-use it
It sounds very formal, so use it only when necessary.
Meaning
Treat others as you wish to be treated yourself.
Focus on the rhyme
The rhyme 'tu' and 'zu' makes it easy to remember.
Don't over-use it
It sounds very formal, so use it only when necessary.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb.
Was du nicht willst, dass man dir tu', das füg' auch keinem ______ zu.
The proverb uses 'andern' (others) to complete the rhyme and meaning.
Which situation is appropriate for this proverb?
When should you use this proverb?
The proverb is a moral guide, not a functional phrase for daily tasks.
Match the German phrase with its English meaning.
Was du nicht willst, dass man dir tu', das füg' auch keinem andern zu.
This is the standard translation of the Golden Rule.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesWas du nicht willst, dass man dir tu', das füg' auch keinem ______ zu.
The proverb uses 'andern' (others) to complete the rhyme and meaning.
When should you use this proverb?
The proverb is a moral guide, not a functional phrase for daily tasks.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
This is the standard translation of the Golden Rule.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsIt has religious roots but is used secularly today.
Only if you are in a very serious ethical discussion.
Related Phrases
Behandle andere mit Respekt
similarTreat others with respect.
Jeder ist seines Glückes Schmied
contrastEveryone is the architect of their own fortune.
Wie man in den Wald hineinruft, so schallt es heraus
similarWhat goes around comes around.
Gleiches mit Gleichem vergelten
contrastAn eye for an eye.
