Library:Neijing Zhiyao 內經知要 (Knowing the Essentials of Neijing)

Neijing Zhiyao 內經知要 (Knowing the Essentials of Neijing)
Author	Ming dynasty physician Li Zhongzi 李中梓
Written in	1588–1655

Foreword xi

Preface by Wei

Professor Runxiang, a fellow student, hails ancestrally from Nanhai and grew up by the sea, dutifully attending to his parents in his youth. In his formative years, he encountered modern educational institutions—an experience akin to being bathed in enriching dew—and achieved academic distinction with ease. Observing the precarious state of the times and the turbulent upheavals of the era, he looked northward with a desire to serve his country through diligent effort; thus, he left behind the meager prospects of the colony to pursue advanced studies in the North. Among those who rose to the challenge with such spirited determination in those days, Runxiang was a standout figure. Upon journeying north, he sought to trace his roots while his heart remained with the landscapes of his homeland; yet, amidst his scholarly pursuits, he endured moments of melancholy and hardship. He braved the desolate, wind-swept northern plains, pacing in solitude like the lonely traveler Su Wu, and felt a poignant kinship with the wild geese migrating south across the vast desert. Subsequently, Runxiang soared to Europe, studying under a renowned mentor in Brussels to specialize in the biochemistry of embryogenesis. He delved into the innermost workings of the cell, steadfast in his quest for truth. He explored the paths of medicinal herbs, personally testing their properties, and plumbed the profound mysteries of the Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon) through meticulous analysis and insight. He resolved complex doubts and strove for the highest excellence. He traversed deep forests, remote valleys, and towering mountains. Like flora flourishing in the warmth of spring—with tides calm and winds favorable—or like aquatic creatures leaping amidst the wind and rain, his spirit soared. At the opportune moment, his outstanding works garnered acclaim; though already a master of his craft, he never ceased his pursuit of knowledge. Since retiring from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, he has returned to the southern coast to dedicate himself to the study of the Neijing. He intends to publish his translations and commentaries, respectfully dedicating this magnum opus to his teacher, Professor Liu Cunren—a gesture of profound significance, not mere empty rhetoric. Runxiang and I were fellow disciples under Master Liu at Queen's College; the teachings we received remain forever etched in our memories. Indeed, there are many others—beyond just the two of us—who have soared high and journeyed far, inspired by that same vision and guidance. Thus, I offer this tribute: A brilliant master, bestowing wisdom like enriching nectar; like flourishing seedlings, his excellence shines with dazzling brilliance. I recall my teacher’s early years instructing us in Chinese literature, alongside history and classical studies; his scholarship was distinguished and elegant. For decades, he enjoyed renown in the international academic arena, maintaining rigorous standards of inquiry and standing as a preeminent authority on textual exegesis and verification. Possessing vast knowledge and an extraordinary memory, he was intimately familiar with the canons of literature, history, Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. He navigated the vast ocean of learning with a steady hand at the helm; a master of the "Six Arts," he also graced the stage, skillfully incorporating the "Three Dharma Seals" into the plays he authored. His prolific output includes the monumental five-volume Hefengtang collection; a revered elder statesman of the theater world, he was celebrated in Causeway Bay for a decade. Like the "Lingguang Hall of Lu" standing as a solitary beacon of light, he shone like the North Star in the southern sky, his brilliance illuminating the world and evoking the spirit of Confucius reborn in China. His earnest teachings remain with me for a lifetime; the resonant sound of his wisdom echoes on, and his profound words are forever cherished. I, a clumsy student of limited talent—like a gnarled, useless Chu tree—gaze toward the southern sky with deep emotion and humble reverence. Taking up my brush to offer these words, I respectfully congratulate him on the completion of his work and wish my teacher a long and flourishing life.

Wei Zigang of Xiangshan

Written at Lianggang Lu, Hong Kong

Dragon Boat Festival, Wuzi Year (2008)

_{Preface xi by Wei}

_Notes

_{1. Upon returning to Hong Kong, Runxiang soon became a student of Professor J. Brachet at the Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) in Brussels. Professor Brachet was a master of embryonic biochemistry, a field pioneered by Professor Joseph Needham at Cambridge. The name "Université Libre" (Free University) signifies an institution independent of political, religious, or establishment influences—a unique status among European universities.}

_{2. Throughout his daily life and studies, Runxiang never forgot the lessons of Master Liu Cunren regarding the necessity of dialogue between Chinese and Western scholarship. He taught that while Western learning excels at meticulous analysis and dissecting complex issues, Chinese learning emphasizes the integration of inner and outer realms, connecting one's own discipline with others—much like the concept of meridians in Traditional Chinese Medicine, which aligns closely with Western physiological understanding. Both traditions exert mutual influence and neither can be overlooked.}

_{3. The "Three Dharma Seals" refer to the "3S" formula: story, struggle, and suspension. Master Liu often cited these as the three essential elements of dramatic writing.}

Foreword xii

Foreword by He The Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon) was compiled during the Qin and Han dynasties; though ancient in origin, its influence remains profound. Throughout history, those dedicated to the medical arts and the healing of humanity have invariably studied it closely. Zhang Jingyue once remarked that "ignoring the Lingshu and Suwen" is tantamount to "cutting off the path to longevity." Indeed, the Neijing encompasses everything from celestial phenomena and earthly principles to the intricacies of human life. It covers the foundations of medical theory, the pathogenesis of diseases, general principles of prevention and treatment, and even guidelines for health preservation and wellness. It has long been revered as a guiding standard—an essential text for any practitioner to master. However, the language of the Lingshu and Suwen is archaic and concise, and its profound meanings are subtle; without dedicated, painstaking study, it is difficult to grasp its essence quickly. While commentaries from successive dynasties are so numerous they could "fill an ox-cart," a beginner often struggles to know where to start. Modern anthologies risk fragmentation, and vernacular translations often lose the original nuance. It is Li Nian'e of the Ming Dynasty who stands out with his Neijing Zhiyao (Essentials of the Neijing). By compiling the quintessence of the Lingshu and Suwen to guide novices—offering selections that are concise yet comprehensive, and commentaries that are precise yet illuminating—he earned the high esteem of the medical community. Professor Jiang Runxiang, having retired from Hong Kong to Australia, has never wavered in his passion for promoting Traditional Chinese Medicine. To enlighten future students, he has devoted himself to translating and annotating the text in English. His work serves a dual purpose: introducing the text to an international audience and synthesizing the views of various schools of thought—past and present—through analysis and modern medical perspectives. This allows those who aspire to study the Neijing—but are daunted by its archaic language and profound concepts—to glimpse its true essence. Truly, this work sheds light on hidden truths and ensures the enduring flow of this ancient wisdom! It is said that to cross a vast ocean, one needs a sturdy vessel. Might we consider Professor Jiang’s book the vessel that carries the learner into the profound inner sanctum of the Lingshu and Suwen? Respectfully written by He Yubing August 2008