Three Cosmic Keys

Taoist practice hinges on “karmic affinity,” governed by three cosmic factors

1. Celestial Mandate: Stars Shape Destiny

Ge Hong’s Baopuzi claims one’s Taoist inclination is tied to birth stars:

• Life Stars: Natural pull toward spirituality;

• Death Stars: Rejection of divine paths.
  The Jade Pivot Scripture adds that environmental “qi” (清浊, purity/turbidity) molds character—pure qi fosters virtue, while turbid qi breeds chaos.

  
  
  

2. Karmic Merit: Deeds Across Lifetimes

Per The Northern Dipper Scripture, cultivating Taoism requires merit:

• Past Virtues: Building temples, saving lives, teaching Dao;

• Present Devotion: Chanting scriptures, aiding others to dissolve karma.
  Without such merit, even encountering Taoist teachings may lead to abandonment due to obstacles.

  

3. Celestial Exiles: Immortals in Mortal Skin

Some practitioners are celestial beings exiled to the mortal realm, like Zhang Ziyang and Bai Yuchan, who must atone through cultivation to return to heaven. Their journeys often involve divine guidance (e.g., Ye Fashan receiving immortal secrets).

In Essence: Taoist destiny blends cosmic design, karmic effort, and celestial duty—a path open only to those with aligned stars, merit, and purpose.