also: おんどく
A rare, somewhat formal term for the kindness, favor, or benevolence received from a superior, a benefactor, or a divine source. Often implies a sense of indebtedness or gratitude. Not used in everyday conversation; more common in literary, historical, or religious contexts.
He is deeply grateful for his teacher's benevolence.
The people living in this land live by the blessings of nature.
Standard kanji spelling. The reading おんとく is the primary pronunciation.
Alternate reading おんどく is rare and may be encountered in older texts or specific contexts.
Compound of 恩 (favor, kindness) and 徳 (virtue, benevolence). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the combination conveys the idea of virtuous kindness or grace.