The Nine Barriers to studying and practicing the Daoist Scriptures

  • It is difficult to discern which version is accurate.
  • It is difficult to go over the words and sentences of ancient writings.
  • It is difficult to know their history and background.
  • It is difficult to comprehend their vast contents.
  • It is difficult to solve the conundrum of talismans and diagrams.
  • It is difficult to understand the gist of the scriptures.
  • It is difficult to tally evidence with the cultivation methods.
  • It is difficult to seek advice from a wise master.
  • It is difficult to attain (Dào) when involving heterodox teachings.

Translated by Wang Chongwei 王崇伟

道经之九关

版本正讹难辨。

古文字句难过。

历史背景难知。

内容浩瀚难通。

符图谜语难解。

经书大义难了。

实证修法难合。

明师指点难觅。

旁涉它教难及。