The first part of this book is a discussion of the heart master. It makes clear, classical distinctions between aspects of the heart which have been variously translated as heart governor, heart protector, heart constrictor and pericardium. Xin zhu is discussed as the heart as master, contrasted with the heart as void. Xin bao luo is presented as the enveloping and connecting aspect of the heart, and tan zhong as the central temple within the chest. Tan zhong is discussed as both sea of qi and gathering place of ancestral qi, as well as the place of transmission for elation and joy. The classical connections between the hand xin zhu (heart master) meridian and the hand shao yin (heart) meridian are also clarified. The second part of the book shows the developing concept of the triple heater from the Neijing, through the Nanjing, and on into later commentators. It is considered both as a separate fu and as the unifying totality of the zangfu. Its fire-water polarity is discussed in depth: as water through its links with the kidneys and bladder, and as a fire minister with the Gate of Destiny, ming men and xin bao luo. The upper, middle and lower heaters are examined, with particular reference to Lingshu chapter 18, which presents them as responsible for respiration, digestion and elimination respectively. Their connections with ancestral (zong), nutritive (ying) and defensive (wei) qi are also presented. An index is given for all Chinese characters and main concepts.

210 x 145mm

134pp

(For this item please quote stock ID 9204)

Related Subject Areas:

TCM Classics      Yellow Emperor