THE WUDANG WIKI
He Xiangu, of the 8 Immortals of Wudang
He Xiangu: The Pure Spirit and Guardian of Health
He Xiangu is celebrated among the Eight Immortals as the embodiment of purity, health, and compassion. Often depicted holding a lotus flower or a basket of peaches, she represents the nurturing and healing aspects of Daoism. Her inclusion in the group emphasizes the universality of spiritual attainment, breaking gender conventions and showcasing that the path to immortality is open to all.
He Xiangu’s connection to Wudang lies in her dedication to self-cultivation and the harmonious integration of body, mind, and spirit. Her healing abilities resonate with Wudang’s emphasis on balancing internal energy to maintain health and vitality. As a symbol of purity and resilience, He Xiangu inspires those who seek to cultivate their inner strength and bring harmony to their lives.
Life and Ascension
He Xiangu’s story begins in a small village where she was born to a humble family. As a child, she was known for her generosity and an innate connection to nature. In her teenage years, she had a visionary dream in which she was instructed by a divine figure—believed to be either Zhongli Quan or Lu Dongbin—to consume powdered mica, a substance thought to enhance spiritual energy and longevity. Following this guidance, she began to cultivate her qi through meditation and herbal practices.
By her early 20s, He Xiangu had gained a reputation as a healer, using her knowledge of herbs and Daoist principles to aid the sick and suffering. Her spiritual transformation began in earnest when she withdrew to the mountains for intensive cultivation. During this time, she mastered the art of internal alchemy, using meditation and breath control to refine her energy and transcend physical limitations.
He Xiangu’s ascension is marked by her unwavering commitment to purity and compassion. It is said that during a meditation session, she achieved a state of perfect harmony with the Dao, ascending to immortality in a burst of radiant energy. Her transcendence symbolizes the Daoist belief in the transformative power of virtue and inner strength.
Unique Role in the Eight Immortals
He Xiangu’s role in the Eight Immortals highlights the inclusivity of Daoism and the importance of balance in the spiritual journey. As the sole female member, she represents the yin, or feminine energy, which complements the yang of her male counterparts. Her story demonstrates that spiritual strength and resilience transcend gender, offering a powerful message of empowerment and equality.
In Wudang Sanfeng Eight Immortal Sword Form, He Xiangu’s techniques are graceful yet precise, reflecting her nurturing and protective nature. The movements emphasize fluidity and control, mirroring her mastery of internal balance. In the Eight Immortal Staff Form, her representation focuses on healing and defense, symbolizing her role as a guardian of health and harmony.
Stories of Impact
He Xiangu’s tales often center on her compassion and healing abilities. One famous story describes how she saved an entire village from a deadly plague by preparing an herbal remedy based on her Daoist knowledge. Another legend recounts her encounter with a tyrannical official who sought to exploit her abilities for personal gain. Refusing to compromise her values, He Xiangu used her spiritual power to escape and continue her work in secrecy.
A particularly poignant story involves He Xiangu’s decision to forgo marriage, despite societal pressure, in order to fully dedicate herself to the Daoist path. Her unwavering commitment to her principles serves as a reminder of the strength required to pursue one’s true purpose, even in the face of adversity.
Conclusion
He Xiangu’s life and legacy illustrate the transformative power of compassion, purity, and inner strength. Her journey from a humble healer to an immortal of legend demonstrates that spiritual enlightenment is accessible to all who cultivate virtue and harmony within themselves. As a symbol of empowerment and resilience, He Xiangu continues to inspire those who seek to balance their inner and outer worlds, making her a timeless figure of Daoist wisdom and grace.
Credits:
Created with an image by Nhan - "Street view local visitor and tourist Wudang shan Mountains."