The Xu Yi 徐异

Xu Yi was a native of Luling (alternatively said to be from Fengcheng) during the Zhiyuan era of Emperor Shizu of the Yuan Dynasty. He also went by the given name Hui, the courtesy name Ziqi, and the literary name Danjiongzi.

During his lifetime, he was also known as "Danjiong Daoren" (Taoist Danjiong) and "Mr. Qifeng" (Mr. Strange Peak). He was conferred the honorary title of "Master Jingming Peidao Geshen Zhaoxiao" (Master of Pure Brightness, Aligning with the Dao, Manifesting the Divine, and Revealing Efficacy).

As recorded in Volume 6 of Tai Shang Lingbao Jingming Zong Jiao Lu (Records of the Pure Brightness Sect of the Supreme Numinous Treasure): Xu Yi lost his father at an early age. He felt ashamed to associate with ordinary vulgar people and confined himself indoors to study. Mr. Liu Yangwu highly valued him and bestowed the courtesy name "Ziqi" upon him.

In the 5th year of the Yanyou era of Emperor Renzong of the Yuan Dynasty (1318), Xu Yi traveled to Chongzhen Palace in Jintai, where he studied under Mr. Zhonghuang (Master Zhonghuang) and learned the doctrines of "Duxian Jingming" (Immortal of Purity and Brightness). He fully mastered the esoteric essentials of the "Zhonghuang Bazhu" (Eight Pillars of Zhonghuang). Later, he went to Changchun Palace to pay respects to True Person Lan and thoroughly explored the profound principles of Taoism. From then on, his proficiency in Taoist doctrines and practice advanced remarkably, and prominent officials in the imperial court competed to associate with him.

In the 1st year of the Taiding era (1324), Xu Yi returned to his hometown because his mother fell ill.

At that time, a severe plague broke out and drought prevailed. Xu Yi held Taoist fasting and prayer rituals, and his prayers were immediately answered. After this incident, the number of his disciples increased significantly.

Xu Yi upheld integrity and was committed to his promises. His reputation in the Taoist community grew day by day, and he initiated hundreds of disciples into Taoism.

He passed away in the 10th year of the Zhizheng era (1350) at the age of 60.

He collated and revised Jingming Zhongxiao Quanshu (The Complete Book of Pure Brightness, Loyalty, and Filial Piety), which was later published and circulated.