Lǎozi tōu guā, dào guǒ; érzi shārén, fànghuǒ.

老子偷瓜盜果, 兒子殺人放火。

Lit [If] the father steals melons [and] pilfers fruit [i.e., commits petty theft], the son [will] commit murder and arson.

Fig One must set a good example for one's offspring in deeds as well as in words.

Note [Rhyme; see also fù yù xíngjié above.]

Topics ACTIONS CHILDREN EXAMPLE FATHERS PARENTS rhyme SONS TALK TEACHING THEFT