2. Chan Buddhism tended to become increasingly simplistic as time went
on, and it was generally not systematized to the same degree as Taoist
alchemy. There was also a traditional reluctance in Chan Buddhism to
speak much about psychic states.
4. This passage combines Taoist and Chan Buddhist warnings against
quietism; "Don't sit inside nothingness or indifference" is a common Chan
Buddhist expression. Wilhelm misconstrues it as "One must not sit down (to
meditate) in the midst of frivolous affairs," which is in a sense antithetical
to the actual meaning of the expression. The Buddhist term neutral voidness
is inserted in a note in the original text.
5. This is another caution against quietism or nihilism; "letting go" is not
to be exaggerated into oblivion.
6. Both Completely Real Taoism commonly warn against becoming
enthusiastic or excited in anticipating experiences in meditation, since this
agitates the mind and stimulates subjective projections, thus retarding
progress. Wilhelm translates, "Nor must the thoughts be concentrated on the
right procedure." This is a misreading of the words, and a misleading idea.
The parenthetical comments in my translation are also notes in the original
text. "You can get it by intent that is not willful" is translated by Wilhelm as
"If one can attain purposelessness through purpose" It is not clear what he
