The Calf and the Mongoose

It is told in the Gemara that a calf being led to slaughter once broke free, ran to Rebbi and tried to hide beneath his robes, crying out in terror. Rebbi pushed the animal away and said, "Go. This is what you were created for." From Heaven it was said, "Since he showed no pity, let suffering come upon him." Rebbi was afflicted with kidney stones, painful stomach trouble and other digestive illness.

He prayed for relief, but his prayers went unanswered, just as he had ignored the calf's cries.

Later, Rebbi's maidservant was about to harm some young mongooses, and he stopped her. He cited the pasuk that Hashem's mercy is upon all His works. From Heaven it was said, "Since he has shown compassion, let us be compassionate with him," and his illness was lifted.