Taoist Inner Alchemy: Master Huang Yuanji's Guide to the Way of Meditation

(Paperback)

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A fascinating guide to the mental, physical, and esoteric spiritual transformative Taoist practices designed to increase longevity and unity with the world-with commentary and interpretation on the traditional text by a contemporary academic and meditation practitioner. In clear and engaging language, Taoist Inner Alchemy shows us that alchemy is not something one does, but a process that unfolds when one "does nothing"-meaning abiding in one's basic, primordial state. It teaches the entire process of Taoist inner alchemy cultivation through meditation practices and includes authentic explanations of fundamental theories and methods needed to actually start walking the path. Historically, Taoist teachers borrowed complex terminology from astrology, numerology, and metallurgical alchemy to describe the process of individual transformation that occurs as a result of long-term meditation practice. While that classical terminology may seem arcane, it actually beautifully represents Taoism's straightforward philosophy; in the words of Lao-tzu, "the Great Tao is ultimate simplicity." This thoughtful guide demystifies that classical terminology, illuminating Taoism's straightforward philosophy. Ge Guolong's vivid explanations of Huang Yuanji's discourses-a Taoist master from the Qing Dynasty (1636-1912)-will surprise readers with their clarity, practicality, and close relationship to the philosophy of such works as the Tao Te Ching and Chuang-tzu. Huang's teachings synthesize Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism, and readers will appreciate this book as an excellent entry point to Taoist philosophy and meditation practice.

Reviews

What a gift! One of Chinas great alchemists of the mind staying in my house. Just in time for my next eighty years.
Red Pine

This crystal-clear translation tells the truth: there is no shortcut, no hocus-pocus, and nothing to gain on our journey to Taoonly true practice to uncover what weve always possessed.
Waysun Liao, author of Tai Chi Classics

Huang Yuanjis care for students cultivation is simultaneously as a fierce coach as well as a wise and seasoned mentor. Ge Guolong further elucidates with relatable modern examples and an adepts experience. Fresh and grounded in the body, both teachers query students to dissolve illusions and return to the fundamental nature of now.
Sally Chang, chief instructor, Evergreen Taiji Academy

Author Bio

GE GUOLONG has a PhD in philosophy from Peking University. Since 1999, he has worked as a researcher at the China Academy of Social Sciences Taoism Research Center. Professor Ge has published numerous books on Taoist inner alchemy in Chinese and has also conducted extensive research into Chan Buddhism He is a long-time practitioner of Taoist and Buddhist meditation. MATTIAS DALY is a professional translator with a degree in acupuncture and a master's in Chinese Literature. He was inducted into the Longmen lineage of Complete Reality Daoism by Abbess Liu of the Three Purities Monastery in Jilin province, China in 2013. He primarily translates for the National Palace Museum in Taipei and the Chinese Taipei PEN quarterly.