Strupeni gorski demoni

Besedilo

Strupeni gorski demoni

In the mountains around Linchuan there are uncanny creatures that come with violent wind and rain, making a sound like a whistle. They can shoot at people, and wherever their shots strike, a swelling soon appears, charged with deadly poison. There are males and females: the males’ poison acts swiftly, the females’ more slowly. The swift poison kills within half a day; the slower, after a night. Those nearby often have a way to save the victim, but if help is delayed even a little, death follows. These creatures are commonly called “Daolao Ghosts.” Thus the Outer Writings say: “Ghosts and spirits are those whose workings are manifest in the world through the misfortunes and blessings they bring.” Laozi said: “Of those that of old attained the One: Heaven attained the One and became clear; Earth attained the One and became tranquil; spirits attained the One and became numinous; valleys attained the One and became full; lords and kings attained the One and became the standard for all under Heaven.” Thus Heaven and Earth, ghosts and spirits, are born alongside us. As vital energies divide, their natures differ; as their realms diverge, their forms become distinct, and none can partake wholly of another’s. The living belong to yang, the dead to yin. Each nature finds its lodging, and each rests at ease in its own mode of existence. In the depths of yin, strange beings dwell.