In Chinese history, the concept of moral integrity and virtuous actions leading to blessings for future generations is a recurring theme. The stories of the Chen and Feng families from the Qing and Northern Song Dynasties illustrate how avoiding temptation and maintaining moral uprightness can bring honor and prosperity to one’s descendants.
The story of the Chen family
During the Qing Dynasty, a scholar named Chen from Zhejiang Province traveled to the capital to take the imperial examinations. Initially unimpressed with Chen’s essay, the examiner was about to discard it when he heard a mysterious voice urging him to reconsider. Despite multiple reviews and continued dissatisfaction with the essay, the voice repeatedly urged the examiner to accept Chen’s work. Convinced that Chen must have accumulated significant virtue, the examiner finally decided to pass him.
Upon returning home in triumph, Chen recounted the incident to his father, who revealed the likely cause of this divine intervention. Years earlier, Chen’s father, a doctor, had treated a critically ill, impoverished man without accepting any payment. Later, when offered the company of a beautiful young woman as a gesture of gratitude, he resisted temptation, repeatedly saying “no” to himself and the woman. His steadfastness in maintaining moral integrity had moved the heavens, resulting in blessings for his son.
The story of the Feng family
Feng Jing, a renowned Northern Song Dynasty prime minister, benefited from his father’s virtuous actions. Feng’s father, Feng Shang, was childless for many years. His wife suggested taking a concubine, and Feng Shang purchased a young woman during a trip to the capital. However, upon learning that she was sold to repay her father’s debts, Feng Shang returned her to her family and even provided them with financial aid.
Feng Shang explained his actions when his wife questioned him about not bringing home a concubine. His wife praised his kindness and assured him they would have a child. Indeed, a few months later, she became pregnant. On the day of their son’s birth, a celebratory procession appeared near their home, symbolizing the arrival of a future scholar. Their son, Feng Jing, became a top scholar and a prime minister, serving several emperors.
Conclusion
These stories from Chinese history highlight the belief that moral integrity and rejecting temptation can lead to blessings for future generations. Maintaining virtuous actions and a pure heart can secure honor and prosperity for their descendants, as the Chen and Feng families demonstrated. Such tales continue to inspire and remind us of the enduring value of righteousness and the impact of our actions on those who follow us.
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