Lullventyr
Nezha — cover illustration
Classic story

Nezha

by Richard Wilhelm

Notscha is a miraculous child born with supernatural powers to General Li Dsing and his wife. From infancy, his wild nature causes trouble, beginning when he accidentally kills the Dragon-King’s son while playing by the sea. The enraged Dragon-King threatens Li Dsing, forcing Notscha to flee to his master for help. To protect his family, Notscha tricks the dragon but is ultimately forced to sacrifice his physical life in exchange for his parents' safety. After his death, he appears as a spirit and builds a shrine, which angers his father when he discovers it. Li Dsing destroys the temple, prompting Notscha to return in a new lotus body to confront him. A series of magical battles ensues between the vengeful son and powerful saints who defend the general. Each saint uses their unique magic to subdue Notscha until he finally promises obedience. His master then heals his wounds from a previous battle, granting him three heads and eight arms. With these new powers, Notscha joins his father and brothers in helping King Wu defeat a tyrant. The family eventually ascends to heaven together as honored deities. This tale explores the difficult journey of a powerful child learning humility and respect for his parents. It combines elements of magic, divine intervention, and familial reconciliation. The story ends with the family united in the celestial realm after their earthly trials.

How it begins

NOTSCHA The oldest daughter of the Ruler of Heaven had married the great general Li Dsing. Her sons were named Gintscha, Mutscha and Notscha. But when Notscha was given her, she dreamed at night that a Taoist priest came into her chamber and said: "Swiftly receive the Heavenly Son!" And straightway a radiant pearl glowed within her. And she was so frightened at her dream that she awoke. And when Notscha came into the world, it seemed as though a ball of flesh were turning in circles like a wheel, and the whole room was filled with strange fragrances and a crimson light. Li Dsing was much frightened, and thought it was an apparition. He clove the circling ball with…

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