Library

An ordinary scholar, if he harbors a mind dedicated to benefiting all things and helping others, will surely achieve something; how much more so for one who chooses a specific skill to establish himself? His contribution to the world is beyond measure! As Bu Shi said: "Even minor arts have their merits," referring to fields such as agriculture, horticulture, medicine, and divination. Among these four, mastering one's profession sufficiently allows one to aid the world. However, agriculture and horticulture are not frequently discussed by sages, and the art of divination has rarely been passed down since Yan Junping. Therefore, among scholars who, after extensive reading, dedicate a portion of their intellect and energy to nurturing their original intention of loving others and benefiting all things, nothing is more elegant and universally beneficial than the path of medicine. Nevertheless, this is difficult to discuss. Generally speaking, humans are endowed with the Qi of Yin and Yang and the Five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) by Heaven. Since there are inevitably differences in the density and thinness of this endowment, and subsequently, people may be harmed by cold and heat, indulge in desires, suffer from depression and exhaustion, or encounter various factors that damage life and contradict their nature, attacking each other internally. Is it possible to avoid disease under such circumstances? If there were no practitioners of the Qi-Huang (Qihuang, traditional Chinese medical theory attributed to the Yellow Emperor and Shennong) arts to regulate and adjust these conditions, these people would live in ignorance, which is truly pitiable. Thus, among all disciplines, only the Way of Medicine is difficult; and within the Way of Medicine, treating pregnancy and childbirth is even more difficult.

My colleague and friend, Mr. Wenhou Yan, possessed a profound and broad demeanor, greeted people with benevolence, was well-read in all books, proficient in all arts, and particularly attentive to medicine. He often stated that the matters concerning women's pregnancy and childbirth are of great significance. Indeed, after conception, proper nourishment and care are essential; at the time of delivery, appropriate protection is required; and postpartum, skilled regulation is necessary. A slight negligence can determine life or death in an instant, affecting two lives. Having witnessed many errors made by mediocre physicians, he sighed repeatedly. Consequently, he collected discussions from various famous experts, synthesized them with his own insights, and wrote a book on pregnancy and childbirth, titled *Xinfa* (Heart Method/Core Principles). During my spare time while working together, I had the opportunity to read its outline and then studied it thoroughly. The book analyzes drug properties and pulse principles with precision down to the finest details, integrating ancient and modern evidence and citations. It is indeed a bridge for those engaged in this profession. This is largely due to Mr. Yan’s benevolent and forgiving heart, always seeking to benefit all things; thus, even regarding a minor skill, he felt compelled to record it in writing to awaken the world and instruct the common people.

Now, he has specially received the appointment from the Holy Son of Heaven to serve as an Inspector in Western Yue (Guangxi). He intends to apply this benevolent mind to statecraft and governance. His implementation will undoubtedly lead to brilliant achievements, repaying the sovereign's special recognition above and comforting the high expectations of colleagues below. Thus, his widespread benefit to the common people will be infinite. Will it be merely like the prescriptions in the *Zhouhou Beiji Fang* (Emergency Prescriptions Kept Up the Sleeve), causing only admiration, or like Yang Bu planting apricot trees, leaving only a name behind? However, this book urgently needs to be printed on pear and jujube wood blocks to benefit medical practitioners. After completion, please send me a copy to show me; let us not forget each other. This is the preface.

Gong Jianyang, younger brother, fellow graduate (Jinshi), from Jingling in Chu, family connection (Nianjia), and colleague, respectfully inscribed at the Guest House in Yantai. Time: Autumn, Eighth Month, third year of Yongzheng.