What is the Zhenren (真人)?

Zhenren (真人)
Zhenren generally refers to Taoist priests who are highly respected for their profound cultivation, mastery of esoteric practices, and attainment of transcendence (ascending to immortality through spiritual cultivation).  

In *Zhuangzi·Master of Great Religion* (*Zhuangzi·Dazongshi*), it is said:  
"The true persons of ancient times did not dream when they slept, knew no worry when awake, took no delight in food, and breathed deeply... The true persons of ancient times did not rejoice in life or dread death; they did not welcome birth with elation or resist death with aversion. They simply came and went naturally."

Huainanzi·Essential Teachings(*Huainanzi·Benjing Xun*) states:  
"Neither dying nor living, neither empty nor full—this is called a true person."

Wang Yi, a Han Dynasty litterateur, wrote in *Nine Meditations·Upholding Aspirations (Jiusi·Shouzhi):  
"Soaring alongside true persons, I feed on vital energy to achieve eternal life."

Su Shi, a Song Dynasty litterateur and calligrapher-painter, wrote in *Rain on Jiazi Day* (Jiaziri Yu):  
"Fortunately, there are true persons who know no hunger or thirst; they close their doors, sweep away distractions, and simply burn incense."

In Taoism, the term "Zhenren" is often used as a title of honor. For example, Zhuangzi, Liezi, and Guanyinzi were all conferred the title of "Zhenren" during the Tang Dynasty.