Here is a structured English introduction to the key texts related to the “Sorcery and Gu (巫蛊)” tradition in ancient China:

Sorcery and Gu (巫蛊) Tradition: Key Texts

1. Historical Context

• Definition:
  • Sorcery (巫): Practices involving spirit communication, curses, and divination.
  • Gu (蛊): A form of dark magic using poison, insects, or supernatural forces to harm others.
• Classification:
  • Not a formal “school” but part of folk religion, occult practices, and Daoist esotericism.
  • Recorded under Fangji (方技, “techniques”) and Shushu (数术, “divination”) in classical bibliographies (e.g., Hanshu·Yiwenzhi).

2. Core Texts

3. Minority Ethnographic Texts

• Miao Gu Shu (《蛊书》):
  • Secret manuscripts on Gu magic in Hunan/Guizhou (rare, orally transmitted).
• Dai Buddhist Palm-Leaf Manuscripts:
  • Contain references to “Pipa Ghost” (a Gu-like entity) in Yunnan/SE Asia.

4. Archaeological Evidence

• Shuihudi Qin Bamboo Slips (《日书》):
  • Qin Dynasty manuals with exorcism and anti-Gu spells.
• Mawangdui Han Silk Texts:
  • Include medical-magical rituals against Gu.

5. Modern Research

• Critical Studies:
  • Need for skepticism due to legendary exaggerations.
• Academic Works:
  • Ling Chun-sheng’s Ethnographic Reports on Hmong Gu Culture.
  • Historical analyses of the “Wu-Gu Crisis” (e.g., Tian Yuqing’s Qin-Han History).

Note

The “Sorcery-Gu” tradition lacks a unified canon but persists in folklore, Daoist texts, and minority cultures. Most “Gu manuals” are fragmented or apocryphal.

The content of the article is scattered and incomplete, which is not suitable for independent school.