Czhan Daolin Taoist patriarch who lived during the late Han Dynasty (2nd century), mountain hermit. Country: China

Content:

1. Biography of Zhang Daoling
2. Early Life and Education
3. Founding a Daoist Community
4. The Heavenly Masters
5. Meeting with Laozi
6. Legacy

Biography of Zhang Daoling

Zhang Daoling, also known as Zhang Lin, was a Daoist patriarch who lived during the late Han Dynasty (2nd century AD). Born in Feng County, in what is now Jiangsu Province, Zhang Daoling came from a family of minor landowners and was descended from Zhang Lian, a Han aristocrat.

Early Life and Education

From a young age, Zhang Daoling was fascinated by legends of the mythical island of Penglai and the teachings of immortality. At the age of seven, he began studying Daoism and later received a classical Confucian education in the capital city of Loyang. Zhang Daoling studied subjects such as geography, astronomy, and the Book of Changes.

Founding a Daoist Community

In 59 AD, Zhang Daoling achieved a high-ranking position but chose to reject a career in order to pursue the study of longevity. He formed a group of young individuals and established a community in Sichuan Province, where they focused on self-cultivation.

The Heavenly Masters

Zhang Daoling is known as the founder of the School of the Heavenly Masters (Tianshi Dao) within Daoism. Initially, his school was called the "Five Bowls of Rice" (Wudou Mi Dao), but later it became known as the "True Unity" (Zhengyidao). His teachings marked a significant departure from previous religions in China, particularly in their rejection of animal sacrifices and offerings of food.

Meeting with Laozi

In 142 AD, Zhang Daoling had a personal encounter with Laozi, the legendary founder of Daoism, on Mount Hemin. Laozi informed Zhang Daoling about the dawn of a new era known as the Great Peace. Zhang Daoling was told that as a result, he would have a new incarnation and form the "True One, united with the [higher] Forces." Following this, Zhang Daoling and his followers received the support of celestial forces that govern the fate of humanity.

Legacy

Zhang Daoling's school became known as the "Five Bowls of Rice" because he introduced an initiation fee of five bowls of rice, symbolizing the Great Bowl (the constellation Ursa Major, the abode of immortals). He practiced medicine, engaged in governance, and enlightened the population.

In 156 AD, Zhang Daoling passed on his relics, including his seal, jade mirror, two swords, and sacred texts, to his son Zhang Hen and ascended to the realm of immortals. His school was subsequently led by his son Zhang Hen and his grandson Zhang Lu, who became renowned through the novel "Romance of the Three Kingdoms."

It is believed that Zhang Daoling did not die but ascended to Heaven along with his wife Yun and two disciples. He is considered immortal and is also known as the "Former Heavenly Master" or the "Heavenly Master Zhang."

Religious figure

Archbishop Damaskinos	Georg Ganswein	Harald Kalnins
Thomas Amory	August Cruze	Oswald Chambers