An Examination of the Early Life and Journey of Bai Yuchan, a Taoist Scholar

Abstract

Bai Yuchan’s life is marked by numerous uncertainties, particularly in regard to his early experiences, which are subject to considerable debate. Therefore, conducting a comprehensive review and critical analysis of relevant literature is of utmost importance. This paper begins by reviewing existing research in the academic community on the early life of Bai Yuchan, which is primarily comprised of two aspects: his year of birth and his cloud-roving experiences. Bai Yuchan’s work, “Song of Cloud Roving”, recounts his early years of seeking a master and pursuing the Dao through cloud roving experiences. The paper engages in a textual analysis of “Song of Cloud Roving”, in conjunction with historical facts, to ascertain the timeframe of the described cloud roving experiences using a cross-examination of poetry and history. Additionally, by combining insights from “Factual Records of Mr. Bai Yuchan”with Bai Yuchan’s own poetic accounts, it aims to determine Bai Yuchan’s year of birth.