Zuo Ci, styled Yuanfang, was an alchemist at the end of the Eastern
Han Dynasty, hailing from Lujiang (southwest of present-day Lujiang County, Anhui Province). In the history of
Taoism, the alchemy techniques of the Alchemy School during the Eastern Han Dynasty were passed down from him.
In his youth, Zuo Ci lived in Tianzhu Mountain, studying the art of alchemy.
The Book of the Later Han states that he had supernatural powers from a young age. Ge Hong's
Baopuzi·Jin Dan Pian (The Master Who Embraces Simplicity: On
Golden Elixirs) records that Zuo Ci was the teacher of Ge Xuan, and "Ge Xuan learned from Ci".
The Book of the Later Han·Biography of Zuo Ci mentions that he was skilled in Taoist magic and recounts many bizarre and extraordinary stories about him.
For example, on one occasion, Cao Cao wanted to eat Songjiang perch and asked the guests present, "Who can obtain some?" Zuo Ci stood up from his seat, ordered someone to bring a copper plate, and filled it with water in the hall. Then, holding a fishing rod, he fished out one lively big fish after another from the plate. When these fish were cooked and eaten, their taste was as delicious as that of Songjiang perch, and Cao Cao praised them repeatedly.
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Later, Zuo Ci exposed Cao Cao's treachery in front of everyone. Cao Cao flew into a rage and ordered his attendants to capture and kill Zuo Ci. But Zuo Ci immediately became invisible. The attendants looked around but found no one, only hearing Zuo Ci's voice teasing Cao Cao from within the walls, which made Cao Cao so angry that he was beside himself.
Ge Hong's
Shenxian Zhuan (Biographies of Immortals) also notes that he could command ghosts and spirits, perform transformations, and practice abstinence from grains.
The Legend of Zuo Ci and Cao Cao
One of the most famous stories about Zuo Ci involves his encounter with the warlord Cao Cao. Cao Cao, intrigued by Zuo Ci's reputation, sought to test his abilities. When Cao Cao expressed a desire to taste the famous Songjiang perch, Zuo Ci performed a remarkable feat: he conjured the fish from a water-filled plate, much to the astonishment of all present.
| Event |
Description |
| Cao Cao's Challenge |
Cao Cao asked for Songjiang perch, a rare delicacy. |
| Zuo Ci's Response |
He conjured the fish from a water-filled plate, demonstrating his powers. |
| Cao Cao's Reaction |
Astonished and impressed, but later angered by Zuo Ci's criticism. |
| Zuo Ci's Escape |
When Cao Cao tried to kill him, Zuo Ci vanished, leaving only his voice echoing in the walls. |
The Spiritual Legacy
Zuo Ci's legacy extends beyond his alchemical and magical feats. He is remembered as a spiritual guide who emphasized the importance of inner peace, moral integrity, and the pursuit of wisdom. His teachings continue to inspire Taoist practitioners to this day.
Conclusion
In the words of the ancient Taoist sages, "The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." Zuo Ci's life and teachings remind us that the pursuit of wisdom and spiritual enlightenment is a lifelong journey. May his legacy inspire you to explore the depths of your own inner wisdom and the mysteries of the universe.
May the Tao be with you, always.
