The True Nature of Daoist Nei Dan Practice
Original Chinese Language Article By: Qianfeng Daoist Master Zhao Ming Wang (赵明旺)
(Translated by Adrian Chan-Wyles PhD)
It is true to say that in modern China today, very few people understand the history, theory or practice of Daoist ‘nei dan’ (丹道), or the complexities of ‘性命双修’ (Xing Ming Shuang Xiu), or ‘Essential Nature Life Mind Body’ self-cultivation. This is partly due to the situation during the latter Qing Dynasty, whereby the government conspired to limit the practice of local Chinese Daoist methods amongst the general population. Due to Qing mismanagement, the great nation of China suffered terribly, culminating in the so-called ‘Eight Nation Alliance’ of foreign military powers invading Beijing. This humiliation started the events that would lead to the eventual downfall of the Qing Dynasty – with China’s imperial era coming to an end. Many conflicts followed, with the Imperial Japanese Army fabricating the Marco Polo Bridge Incident (on the 7.7.1937), as a pretext to launch a comprehensive invasion of China. With the War of Liberation, and the Cultural Revolution, quite often traditional Chinese cultural history was ignored, attacked or deemed irrelevant.
What people must understand is that in the past, Chinese Daoist nei dan practice was taught to very few people per generation, and kept strictly secret. A master might have only one or two close disciples during his or her lifetime, meaning that the general public were generally excluded from the inner teachings of Daoist self-cultivation. This is how Daoist lineages were preserved and passed-on. This situation meant that only the chosen few were given the opportunity to train in advanced Daoist methodology and benefit from these wisdom and health-inducing teachings.
In this regard, the conventional transmission history of the Daoist Schools is not difficult to see. Its rigidity made it vulnerable if circumstances changed violently, as important individuals could be struck-down, or otherwise ‘removed’ from positions of influence, meaning that their knowledge was no longer available or shared amongst the people – even in a limited fashion. It can be truthfully stated that the Quanzhen (全真), Longmen (龙门) School of Daoist self-cultivation saved the Daoist tradition from extinction. The founder of the Qianfeng (千峰) School – Zhao Bichen (赵避尘) – was the 11th Generation (Outside the Temple) Descendant Disciple of the Longmen School. This is the pathway through which the Qianfeng (Thousand Peaks) Pre-Natal (or ‘Earlier Divine Sky’) School (千峰先天派 – Qian Feng Xian Tian Pai) was developed into a distinct lineage. Zhao Bichen inherited this teaching from Master Kong (空师 – Kong Shi), who emphasised an ‘open’ transmission (as opposed to the more usual ‘closed’ system of Daoist transmission). Therefore, since 1928, the Qianfeng School has always functioned through an ‘open’ transmission policy. This allows anyone to approach this school for instruction, and does not discriminate against anyone for any reason. People can come and go as they please, and even those with a karmic affinity to the Qianfeng School can still train in the old ways – without being limited to the attitudes of the past.
Many years after this development, I collaborated with the eminent Chinese-American academic – Dr Zhang Qingsong (张庆松) – to make a detailed study of the 10th (Outside the Temple) Descendent of the Longmen School – Le Kong (了空) – particularly with regard to why Zhao Bichen took the decision to change the policy associated with the Daoist transmission of otherwise ‘secret’ knowledge? This decision appears to have been due to instructions received by Zhao Bichen from Master Le Kong. Now, because of this decision, humanity can truly benefit from the spread of authentic Daoist knowledge and wisdom.
As China has blossomed in recent generations due to the guidance of the Communist Party of China (CPC), China has become a world economic and military power, with the life conditions of the ordinary people improving beyond measure! Not so long ago, due to this affluence, many fake and false Daoist Schools sprang-up teaching all kinds of superstitious nonsense. These ‘schools’ are obsessed with money and dazzle the people with their lies and shallow performances. Many good natured people are misled by this nonsense and are treated badly by these charlatans. My advice is that you must find a good teacher with a proper lineage, and seek-out genuine instruction. Authentic Daoist training requires the discipline of the mind and body, correct meditation, correct diet, and the correct practice of health-giving nei dan. To achieve this, you must develop a correct understanding of Daoist history and be able to possess those who claim to possess Daoist lineages.
Genuine nei dan practice requires good instruction and a continuous and disciplined approach. If this is lacking, then the ‘Essential Nature Life Mind Body’ self-cultivation cannot be properly performed. It is this precise developmental system that has been carefully developed over thousands of years and perfected through the master – disciple relationship. Huh! There are some who think that nei dan is only a hobby to be pursued at leisure, and who think that by reading a few history books, they can learn and effectively practice on their own with no expert guidance. I am here to tell you today that this is definitely not the case! A nei dan practice aimed at achieving ‘Essential Nature Life Mind Body’ self-cultivation, can be a double-edged sword that cuts both ways! Yes – some people can commit themselves in such a manner that eventually ‘cuts through’ all obstacles, but on the other hand, if the wrong direction is taken, it can lead to madness and even suicide! The correct path leads to health and longevity, whilst the incorrect path leads to ill health and an early death. This type of nei dan training requires a strict and exact ‘step by step’ interaction between a properly qualified Daoist master, and his or her appropriately motivated Daoist disciples. This is because every step possesses two directions of movement – the correct and the incorrect. A qualified master knows from experience what the disciple is talking about, and knows exactly what action (if any) is to be taken. This is a profound mentoring relationship where master and disciple routinely exchange insights, thoughts and feelings about nei dan practice that no other method can fully replace. When a student is ready, and providing their mind and body is ready, a genuine master will assess the student and give the appropriate verbal instructions whilst working to release any blocked energy in their (mind) and body. This sets the correct foundation for further Daoist practice, that allows the inner energies to flow and develop smoothly. This is how a Daoist master treats any illnesses the student might have as an entry into the Daoist School. The qualified master then works-out the best exercises for the student to practice that encourage self-healing, and which build strength and vigour. As all this involves a precise ‘hands on’ approach, nothing can be taken for granted, or assumed to be correct. This is why nei dan practice that seeks to perfect the ‘Essential Nature Life Mind Body’ self-cultivation is not a simple affair that can be taken lightly.
I have written this article to assist all the Daoist practitioners in the world, whether they be local or faraway from me in China, or residing in countries overseas. As Daoist practises and methods are now very popular, it is important that students and disciples understand what Daoist practice entails, and do not venture down the wrong path, or take this profound method lightly. You must study the history of Daoism in China, but you must also seek the advice of a genuine Daoist master so that your practice proceeds correctly and in a fully rounded fashion. Then you will understand the beauty and mystery of true Daoist nei dan practice!
Daojia, Qianfeng Prenatal School
Qianfeng Hermitage: Zhao Ming Wang
©opyright: Adrian Chan-Wyles (ShiDaDao) 2017.
Original Chinese Language Source Article: http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_64e533c90102wxgk.html
论道家内丹之性命双修
近代中国丹道性命双修功夫一词很少有人真正了解。应为在近代历史中以晚清政府为首就在绞杀中国本土道家文化,一个泱泱大国搞的民不聊生,八国联军攻入北平,耻辱的清政府的命运走到尽头。1937年7月7日卢沟桥事变,日本开始全面入侵中国,以后的国内解放战争,文革运动等都在冲击着中国古老历史文化。
大凡了解中国道家文化者都有所了解,在过去道家内丹传承是非常严谨的,而其糟粕就在于单传,其三口不说六耳不传之秘法。使得中国道家性命双修传承体系紧限于少数人手中。
我们了解了中国丹道历史就不难看出,内丹传承的严谨性,以及近代真正传承体系的变革。全真龙门派庙外体系传承可以说是拯救了道家内丹传承体系。千峰老人赵避尘龙门派庙外第十一代弟子,亲创千峰先天派尊了空师命普传大众,自1928年改单传为普传。口号是传承道家内丹性命双修功夫,以人人可学 位位健康为目的,来者不拒去者不留,只度有缘人。
多年以后的现代,我和美国历史学教授张庆松博士,详细考证研究了当年龙门派庙外第十代了空为什么要弟子千峰老人改单传为普传的智慧与远见。
如今在共产党的领导下,中国已经步入到世界强国之列,不论国民经济,国防建设都以是世界各国不可小视之国,全民生活的提高就要求生活质量,所以近几十年来在全国各地又出现了很多打着道家养生功夫者,到处开班讲课,让大众眼花缭乱,不知道何事真何事假,我只能告诉你,你只是了解一下道家传承而以。学到一些道家养生小述而已。
真正道家内丹性命双修体系,是一种很严谨玄妙体系,千百年来都是师徒传承体系,有些爱好内丹者经常来电咨询,认为看看历史内丹经典就可以自己炼了。我在这里告诉大家,内丹性命双修是一把双刃剑,可以在修炼中披荆斩棘,也可自刎前程。内丹性命双修功夫是要有师承体系的,每一步功夫都要师徒相互交流,了解透彻方能炼之,师徒之间关系要非常亲近,经常交流了解学习,其实这里讲到师徒关系,当有心者入门拜入门庭当师父的不是口头几句功夫口诀而以,要了解徒弟身体状况,从而制定练功方法,要帮助徒弟打开关巧。等一系列方法才可细致步入修炼之中。所以说修炼道家性命双修功夫不是简单之事。
如今爱好中国本土内丹文化者以及海外爱好者越来越多,其实内丹性命双修是中国历史一部非常玄妙功夫,当你认真体悟她内在养生功夫时,你才会感受到他的神奇之处。
道家千峰先天派
千峰草堂: 赵明旺
What people must understand is that in the past, Chinese Daoist nei dan practice was taught to very few people per generation, and kept strictly secret. A master might have only one or two close disciples during his or her lifetime, meaning that the general public were generally excluded from the inner teachings of Daoist self-cultivation. This is how Daoist lineages were preserved and passed-on. This situation meant that only the chosen few were given the opportunity to train in advanced Daoist methodology and benefit from these wisdom and health-inducing teachings.
In this regard, the conventional transmission history of the Daoist Schools is not difficult to see. Its rigidity made it vulnerable if circumstances changed violently, as important individuals could be struck-down, or otherwise ‘removed’ from positions of influence, meaning that their knowledge was no longer available or shared amongst the people – even in a limited fashion. It can be truthfully stated that the Quanzhen (全真), Longmen (龙门) School of Daoist self-cultivation saved the Daoist tradition from extinction. The founder of the Qianfeng (千峰) School – Zhao Bichen (赵避尘) – was the 11th Generation (Outside the Temple) Descendant Disciple of the Longmen School. This is the pathway through which the Qianfeng (Thousand Peaks) Pre-Natal (or ‘Earlier Divine Sky’) School (千峰先天派 – Qian Feng Xian Tian Pai) was developed into a distinct lineage. Zhao Bichen inherited this teaching from Master Kong (空师 – Kong Shi), who emphasised an ‘open’ transmission (as opposed to the more usual ‘closed’ system of Daoist transmission). Therefore, since 1928, the Qianfeng School has always functioned through an ‘open’ transmission policy. This allows anyone to approach this school for instruction, and does not discriminate against anyone for any reason. People can come and go as they please, and even those with a karmic affinity to the Qianfeng School can still train in the old ways – without being limited to the attitudes of the past.
Many years after this development, I collaborated with the eminent Chinese-American academic – Dr Zhang Qingsong (张庆松) – to make a detailed study of the 10th (Outside the Temple) Descendent of the Longmen School – Le Kong (了空) – particularly with regard to why Zhao Bichen took the decision to change the policy associated with the Daoist transmission of otherwise ‘secret’ knowledge? This decision appears to have been due to instructions received by Zhao Bichen from Master Le Kong. Now, because of this decision, humanity can truly benefit from the spread of authentic Daoist knowledge and wisdom.
As China has blossomed in recent generations due to the guidance of the Communist Party of China (CPC), China has become a world economic and military power, with the life conditions of the ordinary people improving beyond measure! Not so long ago, due to this affluence, many fake and false Daoist Schools sprang-up teaching all kinds of superstitious nonsense. These ‘schools’ are obsessed with money and dazzle the people with their lies and shallow performances. Many good natured people are misled by this nonsense and are treated badly by these charlatans. My advice is that you must find a good teacher with a proper lineage, and seek-out genuine instruction. Authentic Daoist training requires the discipline of the mind and body, correct meditation, correct diet, and the correct practice of health-giving nei dan. To achieve this, you must develop a correct understanding of Daoist history and be able to possess those who claim to possess Daoist lineages.
Genuine nei dan practice requires good instruction and a continuous and disciplined approach. If this is lacking, then the ‘Essential Nature Life Mind Body’ self-cultivation cannot be properly performed. It is this precise developmental system that has been carefully developed over thousands of years and perfected through the master – disciple relationship. Huh! There are some who think that nei dan is only a hobby to be pursued at leisure, and who think that by reading a few history books, they can learn and effectively practice on their own with no expert guidance. I am here to tell you today that this is definitely not the case! A nei dan practice aimed at achieving ‘Essential Nature Life Mind Body’ self-cultivation, can be a double-edged sword that cuts both ways! Yes – some people can commit themselves in such a manner that eventually ‘cuts through’ all obstacles, but on the other hand, if the wrong direction is taken, it can lead to madness and even suicide! The correct path leads to health and longevity, whilst the incorrect path leads to ill health and an early death. This type of nei dan training requires a strict and exact ‘step by step’ interaction between a properly qualified Daoist master, and his or her appropriately motivated Daoist disciples. This is because every step possesses two directions of movement – the correct and the incorrect. A qualified master knows from experience what the disciple is talking about, and knows exactly what action (if any) is to be taken. This is a profound mentoring relationship where master and disciple routinely exchange insights, thoughts and feelings about nei dan practice that no other method can fully replace. When a student is ready, and providing their mind and body is ready, a genuine master will assess the student and give the appropriate verbal instructions whilst working to release any blocked energy in their (mind) and body. This sets the correct foundation for further Daoist practice, that allows the inner energies to flow and develop smoothly. This is how a Daoist master treats any illnesses the student might have as an entry into the Daoist School. The qualified master then works-out the best exercises for the student to practice that encourage self-healing, and which build strength and vigour. As all this involves a precise ‘hands on’ approach, nothing can be taken for granted, or assumed to be correct. This is why nei dan practice that seeks to perfect the ‘Essential Nature Life Mind Body’ self-cultivation is not a simple affair that can be taken lightly.
I have written this article to assist all the Daoist practitioners in the world, whether they be local or faraway from me in China, or residing in countries overseas. As Daoist practises and methods are now very popular, it is important that students and disciples understand what Daoist practice entails, and do not venture down the wrong path, or take this profound method lightly. You must study the history of Daoism in China, but you must also seek the advice of a genuine Daoist master so that your practice proceeds correctly and in a fully rounded fashion. Then you will understand the beauty and mystery of true Daoist nei dan practice!
Daojia, Qianfeng Prenatal School
Qianfeng Hermitage: Zhao Ming Wang
©opyright: Adrian Chan-Wyles (ShiDaDao) 2017.
Original Chinese Language Source Article: http://blog.sina.com.cn/s/blog_64e533c90102wxgk.html
论道家内丹之性命双修
近代中国丹道性命双修功夫一词很少有人真正了解。应为在近代历史中以晚清政府为首就在绞杀中国本土道家文化,一个泱泱大国搞的民不聊生,八国联军攻入北平,耻辱的清政府的命运走到尽头。1937年7月7日卢沟桥事变,日本开始全面入侵中国,以后的国内解放战争,文革运动等都在冲击着中国古老历史文化。
大凡了解中国道家文化者都有所了解,在过去道家内丹传承是非常严谨的,而其糟粕就在于单传,其三口不说六耳不传之秘法。使得中国道家性命双修传承体系紧限于少数人手中。
我们了解了中国丹道历史就不难看出,内丹传承的严谨性,以及近代真正传承体系的变革。全真龙门派庙外体系传承可以说是拯救了道家内丹传承体系。千峰老人赵避尘龙门派庙外第十一代弟子,亲创千峰先天派尊了空师命普传大众,自1928年改单传为普传。口号是传承道家内丹性命双修功夫,以人人可学 位位健康为目的,来者不拒去者不留,只度有缘人。
多年以后的现代,我和美国历史学教授张庆松博士,详细考证研究了当年龙门派庙外第十代了空为什么要弟子千峰老人改单传为普传的智慧与远见。
如今在共产党的领导下,中国已经步入到世界强国之列,不论国民经济,国防建设都以是世界各国不可小视之国,全民生活的提高就要求生活质量,所以近几十年来在全国各地又出现了很多打着道家养生功夫者,到处开班讲课,让大众眼花缭乱,不知道何事真何事假,我只能告诉你,你只是了解一下道家传承而以。学到一些道家养生小述而已。
真正道家内丹性命双修体系,是一种很严谨玄妙体系,千百年来都是师徒传承体系,有些爱好内丹者经常来电咨询,认为看看历史内丹经典就可以自己炼了。我在这里告诉大家,内丹性命双修是一把双刃剑,可以在修炼中披荆斩棘,也可自刎前程。内丹性命双修功夫是要有师承体系的,每一步功夫都要师徒相互交流,了解透彻方能炼之,师徒之间关系要非常亲近,经常交流了解学习,其实这里讲到师徒关系,当有心者入门拜入门庭当师父的不是口头几句功夫口诀而以,要了解徒弟身体状况,从而制定练功方法,要帮助徒弟打开关巧。等一系列方法才可细致步入修炼之中。所以说修炼道家性命双修功夫不是简单之事。
如今爱好中国本土内丹文化者以及海外爱好者越来越多,其实内丹性命双修是中国历史一部非常玄妙功夫,当你认真体悟她内在养生功夫时,你才会感受到他的神奇之处。
道家千峰先天派
千峰草堂: 赵明旺