True Unity - Inner Alchemy Method 真一金丹诀
Paul PengTrue Unity - Inner Alchemy Method
Compiled by Wang Chang during the Song Dynasty.
Consisting of one scroll, it is included in the Methods Category of the The Dongzhen Section within the Taoist Canon (The Daozang).
True Unity - Inner Alchemy Method
This text elaborates on the secret methods of Internal Alchemy (Neidan). The compiler claims that these alchemical instructions originated from the Taoist true persons Zhong Liquan, Lü Dongbin, and Shi Jianwu of the Tang Dynasty. It classifies the alchemical methods into three types:
- The method of cultivating spirit through purity, emptiness, and non-action—a path for immortals to uphold the Unity. Its key lies in returning to one’s nature by observing the ox (a Taoist metaphor for introspection) and merging with the primal Dao.
- The method of cultivating primordial Qi (Vital Energy) through embryonic breathing to return to the root and revert to the primal state—a path for enriching the country and benefiting the people. Its key lies in retaining spirit and energy internally at the navel’s primal center.
- The method of perfecting the physical form—a path for strengthening the army and achieving victory in battles. Its key lies in separating metal and wood (alchemical metaphors), uniting dragon and tiger (representing Yin and Yang), and refining the Black Water Golden Elixir.
Following the three alchemical methods are three verses: "Method of Cultivating Spirit," "Method of Cultivating Qi," and "Method of Cultivating Form." Appended at the end of the book is Essentials of Embryonic Breathing, which discusses the key principles of practicing Qi circulation through embryonic breathing.
