World and Lore / Historical mystery

The Three Worms

The Three Worms refer to the Taoist belief that everyone's body is inhabited by three odd creatures that are commonly referred to as worms. From their lair inside each man, woman and child, these worms are said to keep a record of their host's actions, and on certain special nights they escape to report any misdeeds to the gods. Once all have been tallied up, a corresponding number of days is deducted from the host's life. Because these little snitches can only make their reports on certain nights while their hosts are asleep, there emerged a custom among those fearful of having their lives cut short of holding all-night gatherings so as to keep their tattling worms from getting out.