20. In the terminology of I Ching symbolism as it is used in Taoist alchemy,
wind stands for accord and penetration; lightning is associated with fire,
which stands for awareness and understanding. Together they form the sign
called The Cauldron, which represents "producing illumination through
following an initiatory process," according to Liu I-ming's explanation in
The Taoist I Ching. The symbol of thunder is movement, specifically the
initial activation of positive energy in the sense of real knowledge.
21. Here again it is made clear that the opening of the enhanced
consciousness known as the golden flower is not a matter of routine
performance of yogic exercises.
1.
The image of "retreating to hide in secrecy" is explained in The Book
of Balance and Harmony in these terms: "It is written, the sages used the
Changes [the I Ching] to clean their hearts, and withdrew into recondite
secrecy.” What does this mean? It is the consummation of sincerity and
truthfulness. The principles of the Changes extend throughout the
macrocosm and the microcosm; sages ponder the principles of the
Changes to clean their hearts and thoughts, and store them in ultimate
sincerity."
22. The two poems used by Lu Yan when initiating Zhang Zhennu, who
was to become a famous Immortal Sister, a female Taoist adept, are
