Miracle Prescription for Health Preservation—Cultivating Virtue
Miracle Prescription for Health Preservation—Cultivating Virtue
Tang Dynasty Zen master Shitou Xiqian, known as the Stone Monk, passed away peacefully at age 91 and was posthumously honored as Master Heavenly Boundary. Xiqian once prescribed ten miraculous herbs for the public: "One piece of a good heart, one piece of compassion, half a pound of gentleness, three parts of reason, firm faith and conduct, one block of integrity, ten parts of filial piety, one whole person of honesty, full use of hidden virtue, and boundless kindness." The method of preparation: "Cook these herbs in a wide-hearted pot—do not burn or dry them. Remove three parts of fiery temper, grind them finely in a level bowl, mix with three thoughts as powder, form pills with the six paramitas, each pill the size of a bodhi seed. Take three doses daily, anytime, washed down with warm, harmonious soup. If one truly follows this regimen, there will be no illness or sickness. Strictly avoid: speaking ill of others, acting selfishly at others’ expense, harboring poison in the belly, smiling knives, two-headed snakes, and creating trouble on flat ground—these seven vices must be avoided immediately."
Xiqian’s miracle prescription centers on cultivating virtue. Cultivating virtue requires no cost, no medicine expenses, no boiling or cooking—but can cure diseases, strengthen health, and extend life.
Those with high virtue enjoy good interpersonal relationships, and good relationships are one of the essential conditions for physical and mental health. Acts of kindness and helping others evoke gratitude, joy, and warmth from others—this warmth helps completely eliminate mental tension. Medical studies show that those frequently interacting with others and having good relationships live 2.5 times longer than isolated, socially disconnected loners.
Those with high virtue are upright and compassionate, act with fairness, live calmly, and are unmoved by worldly status or profit. They possess broad-mindedness, sincerity, and integrity, thus free from worries, fears, and desires. Their body and mind remain in a tranquil, peaceful state—naturally conducive to health and longevity.
Emphasizing virtue in health preservation represents a hallmark of traditional health theories and holds strong practical significance.