During the Western Zhou Dynasty, after King Wu's death, the Duke of Zhou served as regent. He successfully quelled the rebellions of King Wu's brothers, Guan Shu and Cai Shu.

However, King Cheng, King Wu's son, was swayed by rumors and grew suspicious of the Duke of Zhou's loyalty. It was then that 'a great thunder and lightning struck, causing all the crops to flatten, large trees to be uprooted, and the people of the state to be gripped by fear.' This dramatic natural upheaval was seen as a divine warning.

Later, when the Duke of Zhou was reinstated and resumed his duties, a strong wind miraculously lifted the fallen crops back upright, and thereafter, the kingdom enjoyed peace and prosperity.