In the early 1990s, an unusual and compelling story about a man’s mysterious illness unfolded in mainland China. This tale, rich with cultural and spiritual insights, offers a profound lesson on the interconnectedness of our actions and their consequences. It speaks to the heart of karma, personal responsibility, and the potential for redemption.
A mysterious illness
Mr. Zhang, a section chief at a local bureau, was struck by a mysterious illness that left him perpetually cold. Even in the heat of June, he shivered uncontrollably and had to wear a thick jacket. His condition rendered him pale and weak, forcing him to take sick leave and stay home. Despite visiting numerous hospitals and spending a small fortune, doctors could neither diagnose nor treat his illness.
Seeking unconventional help
Desperate for a cure, Mr. Zhang’s family suggested he consult a renowned spiritual master known for his extraordinary abilities. Initially skeptical, Mr. Zhang eventually agreed, hoping for a miracle.
When the master arrived, he immediately sensed an ominous presence. He said: “Don’t be afraid, vengeful spirit. I’m here to help you, not to harm you.” The master then asked everyone to leave the room except for Mr. Zhang’s immediate family. Lao Zhang’s 30-year-old sister stayed behind. The master spoke again: “This illness is easy to cure, but it depends on Lao Zhang.”
The master’s diagnosis
Lao Zhang’s sister, hopeful, immediately asked how to treat the illness. The master replied: “A girl has come to seek justice. She is the younger sister of Lao Zhang’s wife, and you should remember the incident involving her.”
Lao Zhang’s face turned pale and then red. His sister, recalling past events, asked: “Master, are you referring to Linlin? She drowned, didn’t she? Why is she seeking my brother? She fell into the water by herself; how can she blame anyone else?”
Revealing the truth
The master gently explained: “Not just her death is related to your brother. The incident actually caused two deaths.” The sister was puzzled as the master continued: “It’s best if Lao Zhang explains himself. Otherwise, I can’t help him.”
Lao Zhang, head down, was silent as memories from the past resurfaced. It was a spring day. Two years into his marriage, both his parents-in-law had passed away, leaving behind his 16-year-old sister-in-law, Linlin. With nowhere else to go, Linlin moved in with Lao Zhang and his wife. One night, when his wife was away, Lao Zhang, overcome by desire, assaulted Linlin.
Linlin became pregnant, but was too scared to tell her sister. As her belly grew, the fear of public shame during the Cultural Revolution era overwhelmed her. Unable to see a way out, Linlin drowned herself in a river.
Consequences and karma
Seeing Lao Zhang’s reluctance to speak, the master decided to leave, saying: “If you don’t confess, I can’t treat your illness.” His sister urged him to be honest, but Lao Zhang remained silent. The master finally disclosed what he had “seen” and sighed: “Two lives were lost. Your shivering is a reflection of Linlin’s suffering in the afterlife.”
Realizing the master’s extraordinary abilities, Lao Zhang promised to follow his advice if it would cure his illness. The master assured him: “In seven days, you will recover. After seven days, I will return to perform rituals to appease the spirit. If the spirit is not appeased, the illness will return.”
Indeed, by the third day, Lao Zhang’s symptoms began to subside. By the seventh day, he felt almost normal, though still weak. However, he decided not to invite the master back, thinking he was cured.
A fatal mistake
On the ninth day, Lao Zhang’s illness returned, more severe than before. Desperate, his wife traveled several miles to fetch the master, but he was away and wouldn’t return for two days. Lao Zhang died before the master could arrive.
Later, when asked why he avoided helping, the master explained: “I refuse to help someone who lacks honesty and repentance. Lao Zhang harmed that girl and her unborn child, leading to two deaths. I asked him to confess to his family to show repentance. Without a change of heart and expressing his remorse, it was just a matter of time before the vengeful spirit claimed his life.”
Translated article
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