During the Qing Dynasty, a family with the last name of Wang were in despair after losing nine sons in a row. The family had always worshiped Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, the Goddess of Mercy, causing many people to wonder: Can it be that those who believe in deities will not be blessed? Fortunately, Avalokitesvara appeared in their dreams and told them the truth, providing enlightenment.
The Wang family’s heartache
As legend has it, in the ancient days of Linghu Township in Guian County (now known as Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province), the Wang family, renowned as the wealthiest in the region, faced a peculiar predicament. Mr. Wang fathered nine sons from the age of 20. However, each turned out to be stubborn and unintelligent. Despite the Wang family’s earnest efforts in their upbringing, the results were bleak, leaving them heartbroken and at a loss as to what should be done. Then, a series of astonishing incidents subsequently took place in their household.
One year during the Qianlong period, there was a severe drought that made the rice crops fail. People were starving everywhere. Being charitable, the wealthy Wang distributed his entire wealth to aid the starving masses. Although many lives were saved, this act depleted the Wang’s fortune, leading to their decline.
Not long after, the eldest son fell ill and passed away, followed by the second son. In less than a year, all nine sons tragically died. Overwhelmed with grief, Mr. and Mrs. Wang were devastated.
From despair to divine gifts
Having always worshiped Avalokitesvara in their home, the parents wrote a sorrowful letter and burned it in front of the statue of Buddha in the hall.
That night, they each had a dream in which Avalokitesvara told them: “The nine sons you had before were nine demons. They were all wastrels destined to ruin you financially. Their existence was due to past misdeeds by your ancestors. However, because you have accumulated great virtue by devoting all your family’s wealth to help the poor and the weak, the Heavenly Emperor has now removed these demons and decreed that the Star of Literature be born to your family to revitalize your family’s business. Should you continue on the path of righteousness, this divine being will descend into your home in 20 years. Bear no resentment.”
When the couple woke up, they realized that they had both had the same dream! From then on, they doubled their charitable efforts, aiding the vulnerable wholeheartedly. Soon, the wife and concubines became pregnant. Within a few years they had five sons, all of whom were well-read and literate, and had a good reputation in the academic world. Two of their sons, Wang Yiyu and Wang Yixian, achieved remarkable success in the imperial examinations, becoming renowned figures within the imperial court.
In the 60th year of the Qianlong reign (1795), just prior to the imperial examination, a pair of swallows constructed their nest atop the lantern at the Wangs’ residence. Old Mrs. Wang was happy to see it and said: “A nest on the lantern is an omen of success in the imperial examination!”
When the examination results were unveiled that spring, Wang Yixian claimed the second position, while his half-brother Wang Yiyu secured the top spot, ranking first in the initial round of the examination. The bearer of this excellent news intended to affix the golden announcement letter on the central pillar. However, Mrs. Wang swiftly intervened, stating: “This spot is reserved for the posting of the announcement letter of the top scholar, so please refrain from placing it here.” Subsequently, after the royal examination concluded, Wang Yixian was indeed conferred the title of top scholar by Emperor Qianlong.
Kindness brings blessings
The Wang family’s story stands as a testament to the profound impact of faith and virtue. The realization that their tribulations were the result of ancestral misdeeds led them to a path of selflessness and generosity, dedicating themselves to help the needy and cultivate goodness. As a result, both their lives and the lives of those that came after them, were showered with many blessings, a testament to the enduring power of compassion and righteous deeds.
The tale of the Wang family imparts a timeless lesson: Even in the face of the gravest of challenges, a pure heart and selfless acts can invoke divine intervention, illuminating even the darkest of times and bringing unexpected blessings.
Translated by Cecilia
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