The Most Documented Taoist Ascension: Xie Ziran, 794 CE

On November 12, 794 CE, during the reign of Emperor Dezong of Tang, a Taoist nun named Xie Ziran (767–794) is said to have ascended to heaven in broad daylight, witnessed by thousands of spectators. The local governor Li Jian promptly reported the event to the imperial court, leading to an imperial edict praising her and the erection of steles at Mount Jinquan. Her story appears in over 80 historical texts and gazetteers, including the Taiping Guangji, Taiping Yulan, Jixianlu, and Xuxuanzhuan, making it one of the most well-documented cases of corporeal ascent .

✨ Early Years and Spiritual Training

Born into a prestigious family in Guozhou (modern-day Nanchong, Sichuan), Xie Ziran’s father held a minor government position. From a young age, she practiced strict vegetarianism, studied Taoist classics such as the Daodejing and Huangtingjing, and began fasting from grains at the age of 14. She traveled widely to sacred mountains including Dafang, Qingcheng, and Emei to deepen her spiritual cultivation .

🧐 Examination by Officials

Governor Han Yi once tested her by confining her for several months to verify her fasting. When her cells were inspected, she remained in good health, with radiant complexion and clear voice, earning official admiration .
Later, Governor Li Jian arranged for her to live and practice at Mount Jinquan, building a Taoist sanctuary and commemorative inscriptions in her honor .

🌈 The Great Ascent

At the twilight hour on November 12, 794, thousands witnessed five-colored clouds, ethereal music, and celestial fragrance as Xie Ziran ascended skyward at the Golden Spring sanctuary. She left a final teaching to her disciples: “Diligent cultivation leads to attainment.” .
Emperor Dezong issued an official edict—the “Imperial Decree on Xie Ziran’s Ascent”—and ordered stele inscriptions to commemorate the event

📚 Historical Significance

Numerous accounts from official histories and local gazetteers reference the incident, with stele inscriptions cited in the Shunqing Fuzhi and Ancient Xian Records. Modern scholars regard this as one of the most credible instances of recorded corporeal ascension, offering unique insight into Tang-era Taoist culture and female religious participation .