To conceal one's faults and avoid criticism, much like a sick person who hides their illness and refuses treatment; to avoid acknowledging and addressing one's own problems or shortcomings.
Era:
Ancient
Frequency:
Synonym:
Story:
The renowned physician Bian Que once went to visit Duke Huan of Cai. After observing the Duke for a while, he said, "Your Highness has an illness. It is currently in your skin. If you do not seek prompt treatment, the condition will worsen!" Duke Huan smiled and replied, "I have no illness." After Bian Que departed, Duke Huan remarked to others, "These doctors simply enjoy treating healthy people to show off their skills."
Ten days later, Bian Que again visited Duke Huan, telling him that his illness had progressed to his muscles and would become more severe if left untreated. Duke Huan ignored him. After Bian Que left, the Duke was very displeased.
Another ten days passed, and Bian Que saw Duke Huan once more, explaining that his illness had now reached his stomach and intestines, and if not treated urgently, it would become even more critical. Duke Huan still paid him no heed.
After yet another ten days, Bian Que went to see Duke Huan, glanced at him, and turned to leave. Duke Huan found this very strange and sent an envoy to inquire.
Bian Que told the envoy, "When the illness is in the skin, muscles, or even the stomach and intestines, it can still be cured with acupuncture or medicine. But if the illness penetrates to the bone marrow, what can be done? Now Duke Huan's illness has gone deep into his bone marrow, and I can no longer treat him."
Five days later, Duke Huan was in excruciating pain. He quickly sent for Bian Que, but the physician had already fled to the State of Qin. Duke Huan soon died.