Chinese alchemy

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Chinese alchemy is a traditional practice in China that combines elements of chemistry, metaphysics, and Taoism to pursue immortality and spiritual enlightenment. It has two main branches: Waidan (external alchemy) and Neidan (internal alchemy), each with its own methods and goals.

Waidan (External Alchemy)[edit | edit source]

Waidan, or external alchemy, focuses on the creation of elixirs through the manipulation of substances. Practitioners of Waidan believe that consuming these elixirs can grant them physical immortality. The practice involves the combination and transformation of various materials, including minerals, metals, and other natural substances. The most famous of these elixirs is the quest for the Philosopher's Stone, a legendary substance said to grant eternal life and to have the ability to turn base metals into gold.

Neidan (Internal Alchemy)[edit | edit source]

Neidan, or internal alchemy, contrasts with Waidan by focusing on the cultivation of internal energy within the practitioner's own body. It emphasizes practices such as meditation, breathing exercises, and the cultivation of the "Three Treasures" (Jing (essence), Qi (energy), and Shen (spirit)) to achieve spiritual immortality and enlightenment. Neidan practitioners often use metaphors and symbols from external alchemy to describe their internal processes.

History[edit | edit source]

Chinese alchemy has a long history, with its roots stretching back to the Warring States period (475-221 BCE). It was influenced by Taoism and the search for immortality, a central theme in Taoist philosophy. Over the centuries, it absorbed elements from Buddhism, Confucianism, and other philosophical and religious traditions present in China.

The practice of alchemy in China reached its peak during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) and continued to evolve through the Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE) and into the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 CE). During these periods, numerous texts were written on the subject, detailing the theories and practices of both Waidan and Neidan.

Influence[edit | edit source]

Chinese alchemy has had a significant influence on Chinese culture, contributing to the development of traditional Chinese medicine, Chinese martial arts, and various spiritual practices. Its concepts of energy transformation and balance have parallels in the practice of acupuncture and the theory of the Five Elements.

Modern Perspectives[edit | edit source]

Today, Chinese alchemy is viewed through various lenses. Scholars study it as part of China's rich cultural and historical heritage, while practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine and martial arts may incorporate elements of Neidan in their practices. However, the literal pursuit of physical immortality through alchemical elixirs is largely regarded as a historical curiosity rather than a viable practice.

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