noun
lasting influence of ancestors' deeds; legacy of merit or evil
Literary term referring to the enduring impact—positive or negative—of one's forebears' actions. Often carries a weighty, historical tone.
彼は先祖の余烈によって高い地位を得た。
He attained a high position thanks to the lasting influence of his ancestors' meritorious deeds.
戦乱の余烈が長く国を苦しめた。
The lingering evil effects of the war plagued the country for a long time.
Compound of 余 (yo, 'remaining, lingering') and 烈 (retsu, 'intense, violent, meritorious'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain; the spelling is conventionally associated with the idea of enduring influence from past actions.