Tianshi (Celestial Master)

Tianshi, or Celestial Master, is a spiritual title originating in ancient China, associated with a religious tradition that emphasizes harmony with natural forces and ancestral worship. Founded by Zhang Daoling in the 2nd century CE, it combines Taoist principles with organized clergy and rituals aimed at promoting health, balance, and spiritual well-being. The Tianshi clergy serve as intermediaries between the divine and human realms, conducting ceremonies, offering guidance, and preserving sacred texts. Today, Tianshi practices continue within Taoist communities, blending ancient spiritual teachings with modern religious life, emphasizing personal cultivation and harmony with the cosmos.