《玄虛子鳴真集》

The preface to Master Xuanxu's Collection of Truth Resounding conveys this essential meaning:

The essence of the Dao (the Way) fundamentally transcends verbal expression, yet without language, the Dao cannot manifest; the Dao inherently requires no scriptures, yet without scriptures, its principles remain obscure. These writings exist so those who've never heard the Dao may hear it, and those yet unenlightened may awaken.

The author recalls studying under Master Xuanchong at Longxing Temple in Fenyin (modern Wanrong, Shanxi) for over a year. When his master journeyed south to Mianshan, the author traveled north to reside at the sacred Daoist mountain Gusheshan. His master's words flowed like precious pearls and jade—spontaneous utterances containing profound wisdom. Whether reminiscing about antiquity, using metaphors to illustrate the Dao, exchanging verses with others, or expressing spontaneous insights, his poetry and prose alike revealed cultivation truths, conveyed transcendent realizations beyond ordinary mind, and articulated ineffable mysteries. Each phrase pointed to truth; every character returned to the Great Dao. The writing was concise yet infinitely suggestive.

For example, the master once said: "Flowers on shadowless tree branches laugh toward the sun; leafless twigs bear spring in their verdant buds." Or again: "Strike open the locks of greed, anger, and delusion with illusory rabbit horns; sweep away worldly dust from the nine crossroads with nonexistent tortoise hair." Such sayings transcend form and sensory phenomena—only with penetrating wisdom-eye and a mind purified of delusions could one fathom their depths. These principles are profound as abysses, vast as the void, magnificently luminous.

The master's virtue (De) embodied the mysterious demeanor of ancient perfected beings (Zhenren) and carried forward the essence of Master Changchun (Qiu Chuji). He neither deceived people with cunning nor flaunted his cultivation. His wisdom shone like a radiant pearl revolving on a golden plate, limitless in clarity, or like the auspicious glow of an autumn moon in azure skies—boundless in brilliance.

During the Cheng'an era (1196-1200) of the Jin dynasty, a certain Master Li returned from coastal regions to Fenyin. Hearing he was a senior disciple of Changchun, our master sought instruction but was politely declined. Later, through other means, he acquired fragments of Changchun's teachings yet comprehended myriad wondrous principles. Fortunately, fellow practitioners like "Old Man Dwelling Temporarily" Wang Juchuan of Puzhou (modern Yongji, Shanxi) recognized the master's jewel-like wisdom—how his words and deeds spread the Great Dao with cloud-like freedom, yet in stillness resembled an empty valley without edges.

Later, fellow cultivators including Master Yang and Master Liu compiled these sayings into a volume titled Collection of Truth Resounding. Fearing the teachings might scatter and vanish, they commissioned transcriptions for preservation. When asked to write this preface, the author modestly declined multiple times before consenting. Reading these words resembles tasting divine nectar—one experiences the subtle function of cultivation. These teachings truly form a ladder toward the Dao. "Truth Resounding" means letting the voice of truth reverberate through the cosmos: the more it's restrained, the more powerfully it resounds.

The Vernacular Interpretation of "Mysterious Void Master's Collection of Truth Resonance"

This text contains Daoist poetry written by Yuan Dynasty Daoist Zhang Zhiming (Daoist name: Mysterious Void Master) three days after the Double Ninth Festival in the Xinhai year, featuring two sets of cultivation insights: "Five Poems on the Sword of Wisdom" and "True Intelligence".

[Five Poems on the Sword of Wisdom]

1. This divine sword can sever the finest hair, yet also pacify nations and subdue malignant forces. When the aura of conquest fills heaven and earth, its chilling gleam startles ghosts into flight, its cold brilliance dispels all evil. A single ring of its blade echoes like thunder across the nine heavens, its light transforming into a dragon vanishing among the clouds.

2. This is no ordinary paired sword, but a frigid blade specifically forged to vanquish evil. When Master Dantai crafted it, the seven stars shone bright; when swung, it emits ten thousand crimson rays. Its radiance penetrates yin and yang, its pure glow envelops heaven and earth. Since the Yellow Emperor's battle against Chiyou, this sword has safeguarded eras of peace.

3. Drawn from its scabbard, the blade remains spotless—like Ji Zha's (Spring and Autumn period sage) untroubled return to heaven. It would rather stabilize the realm like Huang Chao, or pacify the world for enlightened rulers. Wielding this sword commands fealty from all states; we give thanks to Xuanyuan the Yellow Emperor for bequeathing this blade to righteous rulers for eradicating treachery.

4. The Dragon Spring Sword's brilliance pierces the stars, specially forged to cut down worldly injustice. When whetted, its murderous aura terrifies demons; its light disperses countless monsters like parting clouds. Its snowy edge cools like autumn wind, its frost-white gleam mirrors the harvest moon. When universal peace is achieved, it shall hang at heaven's edge, never to be used again.

5. For years I've possessed this sword, mastering its power to penetrate mountains and earth. Forged from auspicious qi that repels monsters, polished to clarity that banishes evil. Its radiance outshines constellations, its brilliance blankets creation. Normally hung by the Jasper Heaven palace—its mere presence suffices to awe demons.

[True Intelligence]

Genuine wisdom is sudden awakening and perfect integration, transcending material desires. Only by returning to primal simplicity does true intelligence manifest—invisible, intangible, soundless yet omnipresent. The light of enlightenment illuminates all existence; its perceptive gaze startles spirits. Embracing all things yet surpassing yin-yang, only by revealing one's true nature can perfect peace be attained.

[Inscription at Xuandu Temple in Chongpi Valley]

Chongpi Valley is an ancient Daoist sacred site, where exquisite landscapes meet secluded forests and springs. Within layered mountain mists lie traces of Daoist cultivation. (This landscape inscription remains partially lost)

"Master Xuanyu's Anthology of Enlightened Truth" - A Modern Interpretation:

[Chapter on the Natural Immortal Realm]

Here grow auspicious spirit herbs, where layered mountain hues nurture immortal Qi (vital energy). Morning light merges with dawn clouds, while twilight joins with evening mists—truly a pure land of Wuwei (non-action) and natural harmony. Like a whale transforming into a dragon roaming the vast ocean, this realm stands worlds apart from the limited perspective of a well-dwelling frog.

Wandering through the Mystic Capital (a Daoist celestial realm), one finds true cultivators hidden among lush forests and tall bamboos. Marvelous immortal fruits ripen in their season, while exquisite celestial blossoms bloom daily. White cranes sing upon pine branches as rosy clouds drift freely; fierce tigers roar before cliffs accompanied by mountain breezes. Who can comprehend such refreshing spiritual state? Where might one truly find the legendary Jasper Terrace?

[Chapter on Reclusive Cultivation]

Worldly entanglements prove difficult to escape, yet arriving here dissolves all worries. Gentle winds weave through nine-bend mountain crags, while deep vegetation thrives amid three-peak clouds. Beyond the gate, mist obscures woodcutters' paths; before the hermitage, streams conceal immortal-ferrying boats. When asked why I dwell in seclusion, I merely point to snowy peaks with a silent smile.

Originally an anonymous wanderer in the human world, I chanced upon this hidden path to immortality. Suddenly realizing the emptiness of all phenomena came effortlessly, instantly forgetting worldly fetters. My mind shines clear as autumn moon, my nature roams free as wild clouds. Let seasons change and time fly—never calculating mundane achievements or fame.

[Chapter on Immortal Dwelling Life]

In the immortal estate beneath Zhongtiao Mountain, even sun and moon move leisurely. A thousand crags compete in jade-like beauty, while lush herbs exude fragrance. Guests are served tea brewed with snow from pine tips; night's stillness fills with burning cypress incense. Should anyone visit this place, all worldly troubles would vanish.

Northwest of Zhongtiao lies the Mystic Capital's immortal realm, where auspicious Qi resonates with Dao's rhythm. Emerald bamboos conceal cultivation caves, while verdant pines guard celestial thresholds. Continuous peaks grow lingzhi mushrooms, and deep pools hide luminous pearls. Dwelling here detached from dust, this serene retreat resembles a miniature Penglai paradise.

[Chapter on Bamboo as Dao Metaphor]

(Bamboo's) inner fullness and outer humility embody noble character. Fearless of frost, it stands like phoenix feathers in wind; proud in snow, it grows like dragon offspring through rain. Its emerald hue perfectly complements pines, its delicate form uniquely matches cypress. Sometimes shedding husks to become rainclouds—yet tracing its essence transcends even ninth heaven.

Few species thrive on these elegant cold cliffs, yet green bamboos remain evergreen. Straight joints nurture serene nature, hollow stems echo cultivation principles. Wind brings rustling coolness, rain enhances pristine clarity. What eternal gentleman compares? Perfect companion for cave-dwelling cultivators.

Plain Interpretation of Master Xuanxu's Mingzhen Collection

The first section discusses cultivation:

With unwavering determination, one can attain the Dao, and then the signs of immortality will appear everywhere. There is no need to speak of touching the stars or boast of summoning wind and rain. When the mind is settled, the five aggregates (form, sensation, perception, volition, and consciousness) are naturally subdued. Why strain to manipulate the "three chariots" (a metaphor for cultivation techniques)? In truth, every person’s heart contains the Chan (Zen) realm of Caoxi (the essence of Buddhist and Daoist truth), and the immortal isle of Penglai is right before you.

The second section speaks of leisure:

True tranquility and joy are called "Xuanchong" (Mystical Emptiness). Over seventy years, a leisurely temperament has been nurtured. The forest springs are new places for practice, while the tradition of the Dao is preserved amidst clouds and water. After experiencing countless worldly affairs, one forgets them all; only by testing myriad methods does one realize the boundlessness of the Great Dao. I tell my disciples the true meaning of cultivation—it is as natural as the moon setting in the west and the river flowing eastward.

The third section speaks of cultivating the Dao:

A Daoist’s life is free from worries, the mind as bright and free as the moon. Nurturing one’s innate nature requires no external seeking; refining the true Dao must be done within. The luminous pearl of spiritual awareness illuminates heaven and earth, while the pure moonlight pierces the stars. The profound Dao has always been pure and unstained—it is like wandering freely in the celestial palaces.

On the Deep Stream of Chongpi Valley

North of Tiaoyang flows a stream, nourishing the spiritual sprouts of the three Dantian (energy centers). The clear breeze rustles, the mountain hues are emerald, and the shimmering water brightens the day. A thousand ripples bring forth precious pearls; ten thousand tributaries carry fishing boats. How laughable that Xu You (an ancient hermit) still washed his ears—what could compare to treading the waves in delight?

A Warning to the World

People exhaust themselves daily in worldly affairs, obscuring their spiritual roots. In the battlefield of profit and loss, they trade verbal blows; in the waves of right and wrong, they struggle for dominance. Time in the mortal world slips away swiftly, while the years of Daoist cultivation are serene and long. How can worldly glory compare? Know that in all three thousand realms, immortal realms are everywhere.

Lamenting Mundane Affairs

Alas, worldly matters are ceaseless—striving for reputation and wealth only brings harm. A thousand entanglements cannot be escaped; ten thousand attachments become obstacles. Better to turn back, sever the chains of right and wrong, and step firmly out of the arena of fame and gain. Retreat beneath the jade cliffs and clear springs, peacefully cultivating the body of pure Yang.

Exhortation to the World

I urge you not to entangle yourself in disputes—all your scheming is in vain. Do you not know that fame and fortune are like candles in the wind, and love is as fleeting as lightning? Craving worldly splendor is inferior to yearning for immortality; chasing wealth and status cannot compare to seeking the Dao. If you wish to leap free from the net of dust, return early to seclusion, burn incense, and cultivate.

To Master Zhang of Fenyin

I bow to my kindred spirit, Master Zhang—since we parted, I hope you have been well, delighting in heavenly truth. The southbound geese bring no letters (a sign of reclusive detachment), yet year after year, the wildflowers bloom as always.

Interpretation of Mingzhen Ji by Master Xuanxu

"Message to Penglai"

News from Penglai, the fabled immortal isle, can only be carried by celestial cranes, while the springtime radiance of Langyuan, the divine gardens, remains unknown to mortals. The Daoist hall stands empty, accompanied only by the wind, while the meditation chamber lies in silence, neighbored solely by bamboo. Do not forget, my friend, the poetic covenant we once made—to admire together the moonlit splendor atop the jade towers of the immortals.

"Lament for My Steed, Three Verses"

1.

Alas, this noble steed, a true thousand-mile horse—how it grieves me! For ten years it bore me, and now its life has reached its end. Its spirit drifts away, freed from this world; the three hun and seven po dissipate without a trace. The idle saddle and bridle I can no longer bear to use—no whip was needed when you served me so well. Now, having shed its mortal shell, it returns to the origin, awaiting only the spring thunder to transform into a soaring dragon.

2.

Ah, this rare and peerless steed—remembering its days of unrestrained gallantry! Daily it traversed the shajie (the realm of sentient beings), ever pacing the breadth of the divine continent. For years it offered boundless strength, and now, in eternal parting, its kindness remains unforgettable. May its true spirit transcend the dusty world, plunging into the great sea to become a mighty jiaolong (flood dragon).

3.

Mournful is the fate of my swift mount, once my companion across distant peaks and winding rivers. Now you depart ahead of me, your work complete, leaving me to tread the mortal world with heavy steps. For years you carried me steadily, as if riding a phoenix; today, in passing, you shall at last become a dragon. Slowly you ascend to the Purple Mansion (celestial palace), resting at ease in the company of immortals.

"Tranquility Nurtures Simplicity"

The life of a Daoist cultivator does not seek extravagance; years are spent in serene emptiness. Silently nourishing shen (spirit), what need is there for wine? In quietude preserving life, tea holds no necessity. Content with simplicity, one guards the original purity; cautious in cultivating De (Virtue), indolent toward fleeting glamour. Forge this priceless treasure of the primordial—in time, you shall ride a phoenix and vanish among the transcendent.

"Silence Without Sorrow"

When was I ever accustomed to furrowed brows? My nature is ease itself—what place has sorrow? When the bright moon shines upon me, all karmic obstructions dissolve; where the pure breeze passes, ten thousand worldly ties are severed. Let past affairs roll like waves—outside my gate, storms may rage, yet I roam in carefree joy. Having learned from Master Chen Tuan (the Lazy Immortal) his art of idleness, I snore freely in the land of dark sweetness.

"Unfettered and Unbound"

Free of attachments, what more could I seek? Unrestrained and at ease, all affairs are laid to rest. Mundane disturbances I do not provoke; worldly trivialities find no lodging in my heart. The divine pearl (one's innate nature) shines bright—how could dust cling? The mind, like the moon, is clear and unobscured. No need to labor in search of Langyuan's paradise—awakening to the Dao, I turn my head and find myself already in Yingzhou (isle of immortals).

"The Dao Values Spontaneity"

A single spark of spiritual clarity (lingming) is innate and natural—why strain to seek out gods and immortals? After rain, the sky clears, and mountain stones gleam like jade; when clouds part over the Dharma Ocean (fahai), lotuses bloom amid flames. Upon enlightenment, one hears no lion's roar (Buddhist metaphor for awakening); seeing one's true nature requires no outward search.

The Plain Interpretation of Master Xuanxu's Collection of Truth Resonance:

Cultivating the true Dao is actually quite simple—it fundamentally doesn't require those flashy methods. The profound truth of Lord Lao (the highest deity in Daoism) is naturally concealed within the transformations of Yin-Yang. Why bother with superficial practices like straining muscles or swallowing saliva in genuine cultivation? Divine elixirs aren't forged through complicated techniques either, for the flow of Qi is inherently spontaneous. It's laughable how people constantly seek externally, unaware that the path to immortality lies right within their own hearts (方寸 refers to the heart-mind).

A leisurely life itself embodies the Dao. Why must one retreat to remote mountains? I can't even be bothered to flip through the scriptures of the Three Teachings—poor yet content at home. True cultivation isn't about formal sitting meditation; a mind clear as a mirror (圆明) is the real attainment.

By a deep stream, I built a thatched hut, far from worldly clamor. Living as if in the Palace of Eternal Light (a celestial realm), utterly free within the Hall of Perpetual Radiance (symbolizing the mental state). The ocean of mind rests without ripples, divine awareness transparent to its depths. Without forced seeking (罔象 alludes to Zhuangzi's pearl-finding parable), one naturally roams the Land of Huaxu (the mythical realm Emperor Huang visited in dreams).

For Daoist Li:

Master Li truly embodies carefree liberation, his pure heart unstained by dust. His wisdom transcends verbal description, his Wuwei (non-action) realm beyond words. Mountain forests and blessed lands are his companions; grotto-heavens and wandering clouds his neighbors. Understanding the true meaning of "turning the light inward" (a Neidan practice), he transcends the cycles of Yin-Yang.

For Daoist Wu:

This old man can't be bothered to write, yet suddenly notices his temples have whitened. Mortal time flies swiftly, but in a cultivator's eyes, daylight lingers long. Learn from Patriarch Chen Tuan (famous Five Dynasties Daoist) who reclined in lofty repose—don't imitate Du Fu fretting over worldly affairs. What's wrong with being a leisurely elder, free from earthly toils?

Reflections:

Leaning on my staff, I gaze into the distance—suburban vistas of breathtaking beauty. Wild geese southbound under pale skies, swallows leaving islands in sparse rain. Peach blossoms flood the eyes with spring light, willow catkins sweep emerald across the land. Returning at dusk with nothing pressing, nourishing Shen (spirit) and cultivating heart bring boundless joy.

All matters forgotten, I stay indoors—heart unburdened, body at ease. Human gains and losses appear faint, fleeting glamor but passing clouds. When inspired, I sit cross-legged; when weary, stretch out to rest. Now fully a languid old man, happily embodying Dao's truth.

Plain Interpretation of "The Resonant Truth Collection by Master Xuanxu"

[Inscribed at the Xuanguan Temple of Wangguan Valley]

The ancient traces of Wangguan Valley remain, where stands a celestial altar—the Xuanguan Temple—nestled in the misty beauty of immortal mountains. Deep within the bamboo groves, phoenixes once roosted, and fertile lands were veiled in the mists of the Huaolong Spring. This mountain peak has witnessed the rise and fall of imperial dynasties over millennia, while the legends of the Three-Summons Immortal Pavilion endure through eternity. Though the immortals and emperors have long transcended the mundane and vanished from sight, their noble reputations remain untarnished, celebrated from antiquity to the present.

[Seven-Character Quatrain: The Beginner's Path]

At the start of cultivation, making vows is easy, but perseverance is hard. If one can stand firm as Mount Tai, sever worldly attachments, and maintain purity of heart, then natural ease and freedom will follow.

[In Reply to Master Wang's Inquiry: Where Is the Dao?]

To seek the Dao, one must forget distinctions of right and wrong, dissolve desires, and fortify the heart in the Way. The Dao resides in emptiness—where should one search for it? Simply recognize your original, true face, understand the principle of grasping and releasing—that is the true essence.

[For Master Zhang, Who Has Not Yet Awakened]

Unfurrow your tightly knit brows and withdraw from the dust of the world; sever the bonds of fame and gain to attain liberation. If the mind can be like the free-moving clouds in the azure sky, no karmic ties will hinder you—effortless joy will arise naturally.

[For Daoist Li]

This Daoist Li, who has cut off worldly thoughts and embodies serene non-action, manifests the true meaning of the Quanzhen (Complete Perfection) tradition in every aspect. At ease, he has grasped the delight of eternal life, transcending the cycles of Yin-Yang and the calamities of rebirth.

[Ode to Tea]

Golden lads (immortal youths) gather tea leaves like divine herbs, while jade maidens collect tender buds from the celestial gardens. If one can taste its true flavor, this fragrance surpasses even the Zen tea of Master Zhaozhou.

[The Divine Pearl]

Formless and traceless, the divine pearl is perfectly round, radiating countless beams of light that pierce the azure heavens. Its brilliance illuminates the cosmos, containing the essence of the Dharma—even heaven and earth cannot confine it.

[Chan and the Dao]

The essence of Chan is non-action (Wuwei), and the essence of the Dao is Chan. The Dao and Chan are one, without division—neither barren stillness nor rigid attachment. Originally, there is no distinction; the clear, luminous state is always before you.

[Sitting in Purity]

In the tranquil solitude of a humble abode, gather the spirit in silent stillness. When the soul is serene and pure, host and guest meet (harmony of Yin-Yang), all thoughts dissolve, and the boundary between self and object vanishes.