The Secret of the Greedy Dou Yujun

The Story of Dou Yanshan Teaching His Children

Dou Yujun lived during the Later Jin dynasty of the Five Dynasties period in China. He resided in Jizhou, which was the state of Yan in ancient times, hence people called him Dou Yanshan. His family was extremely wealthy, but his heart was wicked, and he often bullied the poor. Due to his immoral actions, he still had no children by the age of 30.

One night, he dreamt of his deceased father returning, who said to him: “Your heart is wicked, your virtue is unrighteous, and you commit such evil deeds. Not only will you be childless, but you will also suffer a short life. You must quickly correct your mistakes, turn toward goodness, accumulate hidden virtues, and help many people. Only then can you save your destiny.”

After that, he no longer dared to commit evil deeds and instead helped the poor in many places. He even established a charity school in his own home and invited renowned teachers to teach, allowing children from poor families who lacked the means to get an education to come and study. Once, he found a large bag of silver at an inn. He stayed there the entire day, waiting for the person who lost it to return so he could give the silver back intact.

Another night, Dou Yanshan dreamt of his father again. His father told him: “Now that you have accumulated a great deal of virtue, Heaven will grant you five sons, and your lifespan will also be extended.” After Dou Yujun woke up, although he knew it was just a dream, he focused even more intently on cultivating himself and doing good deeds. Later, his wife indeed gave birth to five sons.

Dou Yujun attached great importance to his children's education, often teaching them how to conduct themselves in society and the righteous principles of the sages. Under his guidance, all five sons successfully passed the imperial examinations. Everyone in his hometown praised them, and the reputation of Dou Yujun and his five sons subsequently spread throughout the entire country.

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