韓湘子全傳   By: Erzeng Yang (17th cent.)

"韓湘子全傳" by Erzeng Yang is a fascinating biography that sheds light on the life and teachings of the famous Taoist master, Han Xiangzi. The book provides a detailed account of Han Xiangzi's spiritual journey, his encounters with other renowned figures in Chinese history, and his profound impact on Taoism.

Yang does an excellent job of bringing Han Xiangzi to life, painting a vivid portrait of a man who was not only a skilled alchemist and healer, but also a wise sage who embodied the principles of Taoist philosophy. The author's writing is clear and engaging, making it easy for readers to delve into Han Xiangzi's world and gain a deeper understanding of his teachings.

Overall, "韓湘子全傳" is a well-researched and insightful biography that will appeal to anyone interested in Taoism, Chinese history, or the spiritual teachings of great masters. Yang's reverence for his subject shines through in every page, making this book a valuable addition to the field of Taoist literature.

First Page:

　　方玄黃之剖也，混元一氣，醞釀開先。天地得之以貞觀，日月得之以貞明， 星辰得之以貞朗，雷霆得之以發聲，霞雲電火得之以流光，草木得之以華實，鳥 獸得之以為聲音毛質，蟲魚得之以為鱗介蠕動。或騫而飛，或妥而行，或五色絢 耀而八音鳴和。以至龜以善息，歷世長存；鶴以藻神，沖霄遐飛。非是氣，孰能 使之哉！然山以是而恒峙，水以是而恒流，而山水時有崩潰溢涸者，以氣時有滯 鬱而不通也。人得是氣，並生兩間，有以御之，則玄都配極，絳節高居。若失其 御，則如喪將之兵、朝露之霧，委頓枯槁，繭而且死。慾望長生，得乎？故曰： 共工不觸山，蝸皇不補天。乃世有號為神仙者，聰明得氣之先，玄微窮氣之妙。 機變化化，渾萬象以冥觀；道極生生，控六龍而靈矯，覺廣劫之大夢，辟群愚之 重昏。是以翩翔九有，苦海靜滔天之波；容與八埏，疑山息炎崐之火。乘翠鳳於 丹丘，蹤神奇而超世；馭斑麟於玄圃，跡稀有而越人。朝游圓海，夕宴方渚，絕 粒茹芝，後天不老。譬如峰巒嶺島，木聳翠而不凋；苑囿園林，草長榮而秀植也。 爰稽赤牒，發金記於五圖；�... Continue reading book >>