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In the second month of the Tang year during the Hongwu era of the Great Ming Dynasty, I began learning acupuncture techniques. Initially, I studied under Master Dongxuan and Mr. Meng Zhongkui. The following year, after my father passed away, I drifted to Weiyang and further studied under Mr. Peng Jiusi, also known as Master Dongyin. I deeply grasped the elucidations by these two masters regarding Grand Master Dou’s (Dou Hanqing) acupuncture doctrines, specifically the methods of "Ziqi Fenggu" (a metaphor for the subtle circulation of Qi in the meridians) and "Feijing Zouqi" (flying through meridians and moving Qi) for tonification and sedation. While traveling among rivers and lakes, I consulted other physicians using these methods, but most could only discuss generalities. Regarding the subtle and profound nuances, one in a hundred might know them; even those who knew could not fully penetrate their mysteries. I was greatly pleased by this realization, understanding that true knowledge was rare in the world. Thus, I treasured these teachings deeply in my heart. Over several years of application, my accuracy rate was 100%, with no failure to achieve therapeutic effects.

However, in the Ji-Chou year of the Yongle era, I was unjustly accused and demoted to commoner status, forced to engage in farming. Consequently, I retreated to Xihe, establishing a hall named "Zishen" (Deepening Proficiency) and adopting the pseudonym "Quanshi" (Spring and Stone). My life became one of reclusive self-contentment. Passersby remarked, "This is the dwelling of a scholar-farmer." When patients sought treatment from me, they rarely requested acupuncture, preferring moxibustion instead. As a result, the "Ziqi Fenggu" methods fell into disuse, and my reputation faded. This was not because I lacked the desire to save lives, but rather because I wished to avoid worldly fame.

Now, approaching old age, with white hair and beard, I fear this knowledge will be lost forever. With earnest concern, I compiled these teachings into a text titled *Jinzhen Fu* (Ode to the Golden Needle). "Gold" is a treasure of the world, accessible only to the wealthy and noble, not the poor and humble. Naming it "Gold" signifies its preciousness; it is precious because it can dispel disease instantly. Thus, I begin with this concept and conclude with deep admiration for its rapid efficacy. The chapter first discusses principles such as treating head disorders with foot points, treating right-sided disorders with right-sided points, the timing of Qi flow in men and women at different times of day, and the順逆 (smooth/reverse) directions of hand and foot meridians. It then details methods for tonification and sedation, needle insertion for regulating Qi, and needle withdrawal. Finally, it expounds on the subtleties of driving and circulating Qi and Blood to treat diseases and connect to the most minute aspects of the body. I repeatedly urge students to practice with utmost sincerity and precision, so that they may cure severe illnesses. Although the language is direct, the meaning is clear and detailed, logically structured and sequential, making it easy for future students to memorize and ensure its transmission is not extinguished. Perhaps when Dou Hanqing reappears in the future to study this method thoroughly, mastering it internally and applying it widely, he will remember who compiled and simplified this text today. This is my legacy to posterity; let students respect it!

Recorded respectfully on the seventeenth day of the eighth month, in the Ji-Wei year of the Zhengtong era (1439 AD).

This *Jinzhen Fu* contains the secret and essential techniques transmitted by my late master. Those who obtain it often keep it private, and outsiders must pay a high price to acquire it. Now, driven by the intent to save lives, I no longer hoard it but publish it in this volume for wise individuals to know. Students must not underestimate it. If you read it diligently and savor its meaning, over time you will see results. Thus, all the methods of acupuncture are contained herein.