Zhenren (Chinese: 真人; pinyin: zhēnrén; Wade–Giles: chen-jen; lit. 'true/ upright/ genuine person' or 'person of truth') is a Chinese term that first appeared in the Zhuangzi meaning "Taoist spiritual master" in those writings. Religious Taoism mythologized zhenren, having them occupy various places in the celestial hierarchy sometimes synonymous with xian.[1][2] Zhenren has been used in various ways depending on the sect and time period.[3]
- ^ "zhenren". Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved 2023-04-23.
- ^ Lagerway, John (2005). "Zhenren". Encyclopedia.com. Retrieved 2023-04-23.
- ^ Robert Sharf, Coming to Terms with Chinese Buddhism, A Reading of the Treasure Store Treatise, page 325, note 139, University of Hawai'i Press, 2002