Ibn Sina. Practical Psychology

Ibn Sina. Fables

Practical Psychology
   

    A noble dignitary was tormented by an evil spirit. He was convinced that he was a cow that should be slaughtered for meat. The doctors were powerless. The patient refused to take medicine and food, and his body weakened day by day.

    When they sought help from Ibn Sina, he listened to the medical history and instructed to tell the patient that soon a butcher would come to slaughter him for meat, and the meat would be distributed to the poor.

    When the patient was informed about this, he rejoiced beyond measure and eagerly awaited the butcher’s arrival.

    On the appointed day, Ibn Sina, disguised as a butcher, appeared before the patient.

    Wielding a huge knife, he shouted in a terrifying voice:
    – Where is the cow that I must slaughter?

    The dignitary let out an admiring moo so that the butcher would know that the cow was there.

    Ibn Sina loudly commanded the servants:
    – Bring this animal here, tie it up so I can separate its head from its body!

    The servants hurried to carry out the order.

    Ibn Sina walked around the bound one, felt its sides, and said loudly:
    – Oh, no, no! This “cow” is too thin – it is not suitable for meat. It should be well-fed before slaughter; right now, it is too emaciated! Take it away and feed it properly! When it gains the necessary weight, I will come and do my job.

     After which Ibn Sina, having given the servants the necessary medicines for the patient, departed.

    And the obedient dignitary began to eat everything that was served to him, did not refuse the medicines, and therefore quickly began to recover.

    After a few months, thanks to the medicines prescribed by Ibn Sina and attentive care, he completely recovered.