Chen Yingning’s Immortal Theory and Monk Taixu’s teachings
In this lecture Professor Wu Guo from the Institute for Studies on Religions and Chinese Culture at Shandong University review the relationship between Chen Yingning’s immortal Theory and Monk Taixu’s influence in Shanghai during the 1940s.
People are aware that Daoist master Chen Yingning was attempting to spread his immortal theory (Xian-xue) in Shanghai during the 1940s, yet they are unaware of the fact that this had been taking place for a few years prior to his withdrawal.
Through researching the progression of Chen Yingning’s Xian-xue, it can be seen that his attitude towards Buddhism changed from “san-jiao yi-guan” (Confucianism, Buddhism and Daoism are consistent) to “xian-fo pan-jue” (separating immortal theories from Buddhism), then back to being favorable towards Buddhism again.
Although there were various factors influencing Chen Yingning’s beliefs, Buddhist monk Taixu was one of the key influences.
Chen Yingning’s Immortal Theory was heavily influenced by Monk Taixu’s teachings.
The two had a close connection, with Chen Yingning taking many of Monk Taixu’s ideas and incorporating them into his own philosophical system.
