True transmission of the Three Teachings

Author: (Qing) Anonymous, edited and annotated by Jin Qihua
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-07-01
Features: "The Three Teachings" is a term used in ancient China to refer to the Confucian, Buddhist, and Taoist schools. In the history of Chinese thought and culture, they are the core components of traditional Chinese culture. In addressing the perplexities faced by people, the educational functions of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism are identical. Together, they form the mainstream ideology of traditional Chinese society, influencing the thoughts and behaviors of the Chinese people. The True Transmission of the Three Teachings integrates the Three Teachings into one compilation, describing each separately to embody the principle of "the convergence of the Three Teachings." The book is divided into three parts: "The Truth of Confucian Teaching," "The True Scriptures of Buddhism," and "The True School of Taoism." The Three Teachings share a common path, with "self-cultivation and nurturing nature" as the point of convergence. They interpret Confucianism through Taoism and incorporate Confucianism into Taoism to propagate the way and enlighten the world. "The Truth of Confucian Teaching" includes 20 chapters such as "The Heart Method of Sacred Learning," "Cultivating the Mind and Reducing Desires," "Universal Love and Alleviating Suffering," and "The Complete Work of Confucian Teaching." "The True Scriptures of Buddhism" includes 20 chapters such as "The True Dharma of the Buddha," "The Western Heaven Teachings," "Planting Merits and Harvesting Fruit," "Scattering Passionary Efforts," and "The Complete Work of Buddhist Teaching." "The True School of Taoism" includes 20 chapters such as "The True Transmission of the Supreme Lord," "Analyzing Yin and Yang," "Suppressing Evil Spirits," "Seeking the Taiji from Within," and "The Complete Work of Taoist Teaching." The author concisely outlines and summarizes the important thoughts and main characteristics of the Three Teachings.