Ge Hong
Ge Hong was a prominent figure during the Jin Dynasty (263-420 CE), known for his aristocratic background and significant contributions to Daoism and alchemy. Beginning his formal education at the age of sixteen, Ge Hong initially engaged with Confucian classics but later shifted his focus to Daoist practices, particularly alchemical techniques aimed at achieving longevity. He studied under Zheng Yin, a disciple of the renowned alchemist Ge Xuan. In 303 CE, Ge Hong served as a junior military officer, earning recognition for his efforts in quelling a peasant uprising, which led to his promotion to a senior position. Throughout his later years, aside from a brief stint as a military adviser, he devoted himself to Daoist studies and alchemical practices. Ge Hong's notable works, including "Baopuzi" and "Shenxianzhuan," are considered key texts in Daoism, encapsulating myths and practices that shaped the religion's development. His influence extends beyond religion, marking him as an important figure in the evolution of traditional Chinese medicine as well.
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Ge Hong
Related civilization: China
Major role/position: Military officer, Daoist scholar, alchemist, medical theorist
Life
Ge Hong (go HOONG) was born in an aristocratic family (the Shi class). He began to study various Confucian classics (such as the Analects) when he was sixteen years old. Later, he shifted his interest to Daoism, especially to alchemy and other longevity techniques, and went to study alchemy from Zheng Yin, a disciple of a famous alchemist, Ge Xuan. In 303 c.e., he was appointed to the post of junior military officer to help subdue a peasant uprising and was promoted to senior officer for his military achievement. In his later years, except for briefly being a military adviser, Ge Hong concentrated on Daoist studies and alchemical practice.
Influence
Ge Hong was a key link in the history of Daoism. His works Baopuzi and Shenxianzhuan (both fourth century c.e.; both partial English translation in Alchemy, Medicine, and Religion in China of a.d. 320, 1967) were important scriptures of Daoism. They summarized Daoist myths of gods and alchemy as they existed before the Western Jin Dynasty (265-316 c.e.) and exerted a great influence on later development of Daoist religion. Ge Hong was also an important figure in the history of traditional Chinese medicine.
Bibliography
Ko, Hung. “Laozi: Ancient Philosopher, Master of Immortality and God.” Translated and edited by Livia Kohn. In Religions of China in Practice, edited by Donald S. Lopez, Jr. Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press, 1996.
Sailey, Jay. The Master Who Embraces Simplicity: A Study of the Philosopher Ko Hung. San Francisco: Chinese Materials Center, 1978.