Poetry of the Grand Mystery 太玄朗然子进道诗

Composed by Liu Xiyue, a Taoist priest of the Song Dynasty.

It is recorded in History of the Song Dynasty·Treatise on Arts and Literature as "One Scroll of Langranzi’s Poems." The current version in the Taoist Canon (The Daozang) is included in the Alchemical Arts Category of the The Dongzhen Section.

Poetry of the Grand Mystery

A preface by the author, dated the Wuzǐ year of the Duangong reign (988 CE), precedes the scroll. The text contains thirty seven-character regulated poems, eulogizing the Dao of Internal Alchemy (Neidan) and longevity, while denouncing the delusion of the world chasing fame, fortune, wealth, and sensual pleasures.

The expounded path of Internal Alchemy primarily focuses on preserving essence and nurturing Qi (Vital Energy), achieving the unobstructed flow of Qi through the Three Cinnabar Fields, and opening the Niwan Cave (Upper Cinnabar Field, located at the top of the head). One poem states: "From the double gates along the spine to the top of the head, this is the root path for cultivation. Refine the Jade Fluid in the Flower Pond frequently, as the Primordial Lord of the Purple Mansion dispatches it upward. Always let Qi surge through the joints, and naturally essence will fill the valley spirit, keeping it intact."

A short postscript at the end of the text briefly recounts Langranzi’s life.