The Baopuzi, or "The Master Who Embraces Simplicity," is one of the most important works in the Daoist tradition — a sweeping exploration of the search for immortality, the art of alchemy, and the cultivation of a life in harmony with the Dao. Written by the fourth-century scholar Ge Hong, this classic weaves together practical instructions for the refinement of elixirs, meditative and breathing practices, and a rich philosophical vision of the cosmos and our place within it. The Inner Chapters guide the reader through the disciplines of the Daoist adept, while the Outer Chapters offer a Confucian-inflected meditation on governance, scholarship, and social ethics. This modern edition presents Ge Hong's timeless work in clear, accessible English, faithful to the original's meaning and spirit. Whether you come to it as a student of philosophy, a seeker of wisdom, or simply a curious reader, The Baopuzi offers a window into a world where the pursuit of the eternal is the most practical of arts. Part of The Founding Texts Library.