Zhang Daoling (redirected from Celestial Master Zhang)

Zhang Daoling

 or Chang Tao-ling

(born AD 34?, Pei, Jiangsu province, China—died 156?, Hanzhong) Founder and first patriarch of organized religious Daoism. Zhang composed a Daoist work that attracted many followers among Chinese and indigenous groups in Sichuan. Like contemporary Daoists, he promised longevity and physical immortality, but, unlike others, he emphasized the importance of religious organization. He founded the Five Pecks of Rice movement. Zhang, his son, and his grandson are known as the Three Zhangs. While the Daodejing was the basic text, Zhang's Xiang'er commentary interpreted it to suit the organization's needs.