The first English translation with commentary of three classic Taoist texts on immortality• Translates The Jade Emperor's Mind Seal Classic, The Immortals, and The Three Treasures of Immortality• Defines the Taoist concept of immortality and examines the lives and practices of Taoists who achieved this state• Reveals the steps needed to achieve immortality in our modern societyTaoist mystics claim that it is possible to achieve immortality: "Within each of us dwells the medicine to cure the affliction of mortality." Now Western readers can access the wisdom of Taoist masters on the subject of immortality through the first English translations of three classic Taoist treatises: The Jade Emperor's Mind Seal Classic; The Immortals, from the Pao P'u Tzu by Ko Hung of the Sung Dynasty; and The Three Treasures of Immortality, from the Dragon Gate Sect. The Jade Emperor's Mind Seal Classic teaches that one can attain immortality through the cultivation of the three treasures of Taoism: ching (sexual and physical energy), qi (breath and vital energy), and shen (spirit and mental energy). Chinese history is sprinkled with accounts of individuals who applied the lessons of the Jade Emperor and lived up to 200 years. Drawing on his extensive knowledge of Taoism, martial arts, and Chinese history and culture, Stuart Alve Olson accompanies his translations with informative commentary that explains the historical context of the texts as well as demonstrates the practical applications of their teachings in contemporary life.

Foreword Acknowledgments Preface Introduction: A Brief Overview of Taoism The Formative Years of Taoism The Complete Reality School and the Dragon Gate Sects 1 What Is Immortality? 2 Is Immortality Possible? "The Immortals" from the Pao P'u T'zu Nei P'ien by Ko Hung 3 The Jade Emperor's Mind Seal Classic Refining the Three Treasures Historical Background Origins of the Jade Emperor Explanation of Terms A Translation of The Jade Emperor's Mind Seal Classic Lu Szu-hsing's Appended Verses Commentary 4 The Three Treasures of Immortality "The Three Treasures of Immortality" from Hsien Tao Ching Tso Ching by T'ien Hsin Ching: The First Treasure Qi: The Second Treasure Shen: The Third Treasure 5 Closing Tips for Cultivating Immortality Bibliography About the Author Index