Preface to The Medical Continuity

Generation after generation, the surviving writings passed down—those composed by the Sages and elucidated by the Worthies original: 聖作賢述 (shengzuo xianshu). A traditional phrase indicating that the foundational principles were created by semi-divine Sages, while later scholars (Worthies) explained and transmitted them.—encompass the classics' exhaustive investigation into the origin of human life and destiny original: 性命 (xingming). In Chinese thought, this refers to both the biological spark of life and the moral nature or destiny endowed by Heaven..

The principles of the wax and wane original: 消息 (xiaoxi). In the context of the I Ching and medical theory, this refers to the cyclical growth and decline of energies. of Yin and Yang are indeed most subtle and profound. Unless one possesses comprehensive learning and a keen intellect, it is not easy even to understand the literal meaning of the words and phrases, let alone their subtle essence.

Today, however, those who practice medicine are mostly unrefined individuals from remote villages. Having failed to complete their formal education and finding themselves unable to serve in officialdom original: 仕宦 (shihuan). Entering government service through the imperial examinations was the primary goal of the scholar class; medicine was often a fallback for those who did not succeed., they have merely read...