The Legacy ofZi Wei Dou Shu‘s Master Chen Tuan: Three Emperors Issued Summons
Emperor Shizong of Later Zhou was fond of Daoist alchemy, particularly the art of turning elixirs into gold and silver. Upon hearing of Chen Tuan’s profound spiritual cultivation, Shizong summoned him to the palace for over a month. When the emperor asked about alchemical techniques, Chen Tuan replied, “Your Majesty, as the ruler of the four seas, your focus should be on governing the nation. Why concern yourself with such trivial pursuits as turning metals into gold?” Instead of taking offense, Shizong honored Chen Tuan with the title of Grand Remonstrance Advisor. Chen Tuan, however, humbly declined and left.
One day, while riding a donkey through Hua Yin, Chen Tuan heard the news that Emperor Taizu had ascended the Song throne. He clapped his hands and laughed heartily, saying, “From now on, the world shall know peace.” Soon after, Emperor Taizu summoned him twice, but Chen Tuan declined, saying, “Imperial summons need not trouble the phoenix to deliver; my heart has long been captured by the white clouds of the wilderness.”
After Emperor Taizu’s passing, his successor, Emperor Taizong, also summoned Chen Tuan. Upon meeting him, Taizong treated him with great respect. Years later, Chen Tuan visited Taizong again. Song Qi, Taizong’s chancellor, remarked, “Master Chen Tuan remains untouched by worldly power and fame; he is truly an immortal sage beyond the mortal realm. Having lived in seclusion on Mount Hua for over 40 years, he must be nearly a hundred years old. He once mentioned surviving the chaos of the Five Dynasties period and now, blessed by the peace of the Song Dynasty, he has come to visit the court. Conversing with him is truly enlightening.”
When Song Qi asked why Chen Tuan did not share methods for self-cultivation, Chen Tuan humbly replied, “I have no secret techniques to pass on. Right now, the most important practice is the unity between the emperor and his ministers in cultivating virtue, implementing reforms, and managing the realm diligently. No cultivation surpasses this duty.”
Emperor Taizong found his words deeply insightful and bestowed upon him the honorary title Master Xi Yi, along with a purple robe. He also arranged for Chen Tuan to stay at the imperial palace and ordered officials to restore the Yuntai Temple for him. A few months later, Chen Tuan quietly left again.