Zhang Guolao, a renowned Taoist figure in the Tang Dynasty, is renowned for his legendary life and the story of his ascension to immortality. In Chinese folklore, Zhang Guolao is revered as one of the "Eight Immortals," and his image is often associated with traits such as immortality and vast divine powers. This article will explore the legend of Zhang Guolao's ascension to immortality and how these legends reflect ancient Chinese Taoist culture and folk beliefs.

First, let's delve into the historical background of Zhang Guolao. Zhang Guolao, originally named Zhang Guo, was a Taoist priest in the Tang Dynasty, reportedly born in Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province. His life was filled with mystery, and he was considered a highly accomplished individual who attained immortality through cultivation. So, how did Zhang Guolao achieve immortality?

1. Cultivation of the Tao and Self-cultivation: It is said that Zhang Guolao had a profound interest in Taoist cultivation since childhood. He practiced Taoist classics for a long time, gradually grasping the mysteries of Taoism through internal and external elixir cultivation. His self-cultivation and temperament refinement enabled him to achieve remarkable accomplishments in Taoist cultivation.

2. Consuming Divine Medicines: In the legends, Zhang Guolao consumed a miraculous herb called "Huangjing," which possesses the power to grant immortality. Through prolonged consumption and cultivation, Zhang Guolao ultimately attained immortality.

3. Vast Divine Powers: After attaining immortality, Zhang Guolao was endowed with numerous divine powers, including the ability to fly and traverse the heavens and earth, as well as the ability to foretell the future. He often traveled around the world on a donkey, carrying a gourd, healing the sick, and saving lives, becoming a renowned immortal in folklore.

4. The Influence of Taoist Culture: The legend of Zhang Guolao's ascension to immortality not only praises his personal cultivation achievements but also reflects the prevalence of Taoist culture in the Tang Dynasty and the folk's worship of Taoist deities. His image and story have become a part of Chinese Taoist culture, influencing later generations' views on Taoist cultivation.

In conclusion, Zhang Guolao's ascension to immortality is a process that integrates history and legend. Through Taoist cultivation, consumption of divine medicines, and the acquisition of divine powers, he ultimately became a revered immortal in folklore. Zhang Guolao's story not only showcases the unique characteristics of Taoist culture in the Tang Dynasty but also reflects the ancient Chinese people's aspirations and worship of deities. Through understanding the legend of Zhang Guolao's ascension to immortality, we can gain a deeper understanding of the essence of ancient Chinese Taoist culture and folk beliefs.

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