道言浅近说 – 张三丰
Speaking of the Dao in plain words – ZhangSanFeng
Translated by LI Siming, 2011
Provided by lisiming.com, 2011
Section number added by translator to facilitate reference and discussion
Overview:
Among other writings of ZhangSanFeng, this article of about three thousands three hundred words provides a brief yet clear overview of the pathway of Dao cultivation via meditation and Internal Alchemy. It discusses the general outline of different stages of Daoist cultivation, structure of the human essence-energy-spirit system, important explanation on key concepts such as truth, nature, spirit, mind, foundation practices in breathing and meditation, and barriers and useful attitudes to facilitate the practice. As the master said, practice proceeded blindly leads one to go nowhere (section 16). This article therefore helps practitioner to focus their efforts on the core and direct pathway towards the Dao.
Section:
1. Three gates three stages of Dao cultivation in four sentences
2. Three stages in Internal Alchemy
3. Outline of Daoist Cultivation: Exhaust the truth, reach the end of the nature
4. Basic practice: Condense the spirit, regulate the breath
6. Leading the mind into Truth, human mind becomes Dao mind
7. Great Dao core: master the mind, refine the nature
8. Barrier: Mind in Truth vs. Desire
9. Relationship between mind, breath, spirit, between internal and external three treasures
10. Center as the gateway to the Great Dao, physical vs. psychic center
11. Proper breathing, energy reaction, where to abide
14. Regimen discussion: heart and kidney, saving energy without expectation
15. Take lightly on bodily comfort
16. Understand truth thoroughly before proceeding
17. Sincerity and honesty as helpful attitudes
