11.   Russian businesses have long sought the blessing of government bureaucrats to get ahead.

12.   The chief executives lunching with John Sweeney, the American labor leader, seemed almost to be seeking his blessing.

13.   Then he sought blessings from both Yosef and Rabbi Yitzhak Kedouri, a kabalist rabbi who is an important mystical figure in the religious Sephardic community.

14.   They are seeking the blessings of medicine men and sweltering in the cleansing heat of sweat lodges, looking for ways to mend their spirits if not their bodies.

15.   Politicians routinely seek the blessings of these leaders because of their enormous sway over voters.

16.   Many fell at his feet, others showered money on him and sought his blessings.

17.   Merit makers seek the blessings of their favourite deities, notably Kuan Yin Bodhisatwa, the goddess of mercy and generosity, and various spirits signifying prosperity.

18.   Politicians seeking office regularly seek his blessing.

19.   Scores of politicians, businessmen and senior bureaucrats reportedly visit him each week to seek his blessings.

20.   State prosecutors sought high court blessing of their approach, arguing that each defendant was treated fairly.