Researches Into Chinese Superstitions - First Part, Superstitious Practices, Profusely Illustrated #268185

We collect into this chapter. Under a general heading, written charms, hwa-fu petition and all kinds of magic scripts, devised by Buddhist monks, and especially by Taoist priests, tao-shi if, for the purpose of curing diseases, preventing or checking epidemics, expelling demons, counteracting evil influences and obtaining the protection of the Gods in all human ills. AS the misfortunes which befall men here below are countless, one may imagine the various devices, which these cunning folks, ever on the look out for gain, constantly invent. The drawing up of charms is one of the chief pursuits of Taoist priests, tao-shi 55: j; They have always some ready for every imaginable case, disease and condition, to which poor suffering mortals may be exposed.