Exploring 'Nei Jing Tu' [1]-1

 

[1]---this is a poem  contains metaphorical or symbolic language that may carry deeper philosophical meanings. Each line appears to depict a vivid image or idea that could be interpreted in various ways.

"Iron cattle cultivating money,

Child wearing praise for carving stones,

A grain of millet hides the world,

Cooking mountains and rivers in half a liter,

the white-headed old man's eyebrows drop to the ground,

The blue-eyed monk's hands hold the sky,

If you delve into the profundity of this mystery, 

You will realize that there is no deeper mystery beyond this."

 

[1]-1 " Iron cattle cultivating money"

The phrase "Iron cattle cultivating money" symbolizes the concept of utilizing internal practices to cultivate vitality and prosperity. In traditional Chinese medicine, Five elements: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth, iron represents metal, which corresponds to the lungs and large intestine, both associated with the element of metal. The large intestine is a Fu organ, and Lung is a Zang organ. Iron cattle referring specifically to the treasury of metal. 

In the context of the five-element theory generating cycle, Earth generates Metal. Earth is associated with the Spleen and Stomach, which are located in the abdominal area. Money can be perceived in the earth, symbolizing the strengthening of the digestive system through breath practice. This leads to the accumulation of more qi/energy in the abdominal area. The post-heaven qi stimulated by breath practice will activate the pre-heaven qi hidden in the Dantian. The interaction between these two forms of qi generates additional energy, corresponding to the concept expressed in the second phrase "Child wearing praise for carving stones." You can see a child is in the heart area. Through breath practice, the body undergoes regeneration and rejuvenation. 

The act of cultivating "money" within oneself refers to the accumulation of vital energy (qi) and the promotion of overall well-being. In traditional Chinese medicine, qi is considered the fundamental life force that circulates throughout the body, supporting various physiological functions and maintaining health. Through practices like abdominal breathing or reverse abdominal breathing, individuals can enhance their internal vitality, strengthen their body's resilience, and promote longevity.

The metaphor of cattle represents the steady and methodical approach needed to cultivate one's internal resources. Unlike the rapid and erratic movements of other animals, such as mules and horses, cattle move deliberately and with endurance. This reflects the importance of consistency and patience in internal cultivation practices.

Overall, "Iron cattle cultivating money" encapsulates the idea of using disciplined internal practices, such as breathing exercises and mindfulness, to nurture vitality and abundance within oneself, ultimately leading to a harmonious and balanced state of health and well-being.

 

Refer to,The secret: 'Cultivating with Huang Di Nei Jing' by Master Xing Yi 

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