Secret Essentials Scripture Composed and Practiced by the Shangqing Taiji True Person (Shangqing Taiji Zhenren Zhuan Suo Shixing Miyao Jing), an early classic of the Shangqing School, was probably compiled during the Eastern Jin and Southern Dynasties.
Its original title was Secret Essentials Composed and Practiced by the Supreme True Person (Taishang Zhenren Zhuan Suo Shixing Miyao), and it is included in Volume 9 of Zhengao (True Declarations).
The existing version in the Daozang (Taoist Canon) is one scroll, which is believed to be an adaptation and expansion created by Taoist priests of the Southern and Northern Dynasties, who extracted content from Zhengao. This version is included in the Zhengyi Bu (Orthodox Oneness Section) of the Daozang.
The text excerpts content from more than ten Shangqing Taoist texts, such as Tai Su Dan Jing Jing (Great Primordial Crimson Light Scripture) and Da Dong Jing Jing Jing (Great Cavern Essential Light Scripture), and focuses on methods of health preservation and wellness.
It records techniques including massage, breath regulation (tuna), and bathing, which are used to prevent illness and aging, resist harm from ghosts and gods, eliminate bodily filth, maintain eternal youth, and keep the ears sharp and eyes clear.
✨ Recommended Taoist Talismans
Discover powerful talismans for your spiritual journey
