"Three Dragons Release Disease" by Chi-Jen Liu
Symbolism · The Full Collection · Series
Traced by Incense
Mantra charms are more than decorative talismans or lucky objects. Many individuals have testified to the tangible power behind these ancient symbols when they are properly applied. As a respected teacher, Chi-Jen Liu does not promote blind faith in mantra charms. He encourages a holistic approach of dedicated meditation upon the charms, being mindful of their purpose, practicing mantra chants and mudras, as well as living a healthy and balanced life.
"72 Protection Mantra Charms Scroll" by Chi-Jen Liu · Details
Chi-Jen Liu composed "72 Protection Mantra Charms Scroll" for personal reasons. He says, "With this scroll, I wish to share the legacy of mantra charms for the benefit of future generations. Taoist masters discovered that these unique patterns had the power to apply natural laws for our benefit. Mantra charms are just as effective today as they were back then."
This artwork is comprised of 72 powerful mantra charms: eight mantra charms to resolve difficult feng shui problems for each of the nine directions. Each mantra charm has been stamped with a red chop by the artist in a meditative state. His concentration can be felt by focusing the eyes on the calligraphy and mentally tracing the fluid lines with a calm gaze. (Note: Chinese calligraphy is read from right to left.) Alternatively, one may also choose to trace the mantra charms with the index finger or an incense stick. Many have experienced clarity of mind from this practice.
"Vegan Lifestyle Leads to Health" by Chi-Jen Liu · Details
On top of meditative practices, Chi-Jen Liu advocates a peaceful lifestyle and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and medicinal herbs, as a means to longevity and health. In his mantra charm painting, "Vegan Lifestyle Leads to Health," he invites us to take a close look at an offering of colorful fruits and vegetables, and appreciate the benefits that each one provides.
In ancient China, pears were associated with immortality because pear trees live for many years. Apples represent peace and harmony because the Chinese word for apple is "ping" which sounds like the Chinese word for peace. Loquats are a medicinal fruit and used in Chinese medicine to soothe the throat. When combined with other herbs, it is known as "pipa gao," or loquat syrup, which aids digestion and improves respiration. Oranges represent fortune and abundance because they are golden and look like the sun. They are used medicinally for their ability to regulate "chi" and detoxify the body. Like oranges, persimmons are also beneficial to balance "chi" as they are considered neither yin nor yang (neither cold nor hot). Bananas help ripen persimmons. They are a natural source of replenishment for active individuals. Bananas can help lower blood pressure and protect the heart. A yellow and ripe banana is symbolic of good health as well as wealth because they resemble ingots (ancient Chinese gold bars).
The daikon (white radish) and cabbage are both white vegetables with high water content and cooling properties. They symbolize purity of the body and calmness of the mind.
Ancient Chinese historical documents show that chrysanthemums have been prized for hundreds of years. It is used in traditional Chinese medicine to cool the body, reduce fever, lower blood pressure, and treat headaches. Chrysanthemum tea is offered to the elderly for pain relief and to enhance their general well-being. These flowers represent blessings for a happy, peaceful retirement and long life. Chi-Jen Liu presents chrysanthemums in a vase because in Chinese the word for "[flower] vase" is "[hua] ping" which also sounds like the word for "peace."
At the bottom of the painting, Chi-Jen Liu summarizes the results of a vegan lifestyle by illustrating a boat carrying a happy family. They toast to each others' health as the wind fills the sails and carries them smoothly into old age. The boat is made of gold to symbolize wealth and prosperity in one's golden years.
"Longevity Calligraphy Charms" by Chi-Jen Liu · Details
Taoist mantra charms evolved out of the patterns that the ancient sages observed in nature. They were mystical diagrams that expressed the awesome power of Nature's forces and became tools for communicating metaphysical concepts.
"Longevity Calligraphy Charms" combines Chinese calligraphy, Taoist mantra charms, and traditional Chinese brush painting. Notice how the lines swirl around each other harmoniously – they flow like the gentle smoke that rises from burning incense – providing a glimpse of the invisible currents of energy or “chi” that is present everywhere. The sage emerging from Chinese symbols blesses the conscientious older generation with long life, good fortune, and spiritual attainment.
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