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The 49 Barriers

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  • The 49 Barriers

    Dear readers,

    Here is a very interesting Taoist tract called The 49 Barriers which details different moral and spiritual obstacles that a cultivator must overcome on their cultivation path. Certainly worth reading even for non-Taoists.

    Foreword: The original text dates to the Qing Dynasty, written by Master Liu as “The 50 Barriers.” The text has been slightly modified. What we call an “abnormal” person here is a person who society views as different from the multitude, often called crazy, mental, idiotic, foolish, moronic, dim-witted, prodigal, unattended of one’s duty, parasitic, a pushover, etc. Because of their perspectives on human life, values, worldview, and differences from other people, they don’t compete with others and don’t attempt to take things forcefully for themselves. They don’t cheat others, lobby for personal gain, seek high office, or seize opportunity for profit. They don’t see every bird and fish as a meal, nor commit actions which harm the lives of other living beings. They are wary of good food and drink and the temptation of physical beauty. Others see them as useless and handicapped. Is that not so? People may say “What are these people? Unbelievable!”

    The Chinese word “Guan” (关) is defined as an obstruction blocking a path to a fortress, a narrow mountain pass or a request. When a “Guan” or Barrier is obstructed, one is unable to arrive at their destination, or achieve their goal. The reference is made to barriers from studying and understanding the Dao, sublimation of the soul, ascendance to immortality and enlightenment; it also describes the junctures and openings of these barriers. These barriers contain that which is inherent to a person’s nature, as well as the qualities which have been influenced or corrupted by the ideas and judgments of society… one’s degree of self-cultivation, understanding, comprehension, assurance, choice of direction, intensity of dedication etc. are all closely related to these influences and barriers.
    With sincere respect,
    Olli
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