十八在訣: Eighteen "in" Secret/ Mantra

 

• 十八在訣: Eighteen "in" Secret/ Mantra
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• 四言十八句: Four-character eighteen sentences

"十八在訣 (四言十八句)" is a term commonly associated with martial arts, particularly Chinese martial arts like Tai Chi and Baguazhang. It often refers to a set of concise, four-character phrases that encapsulate core principles, techniques, and philosophies of these martial arts.

Group 1: The Eight Forces and Their Applications

• 掤在兩臂, 捋在掌中: The warding off (peng) force is generated from both arms, while the rolling back (lu) force originates from the palms.
• 亂環訣是打法，打法就是收縮。身子掛在手上，手掌的內力要能夠拉動整個脊椎。The chaotic circle technique is a striking technique, essentially involving a contracting motion. The body is suspended from the hands, and the internal power generated from the palms must be strong enough to pull the entire spine.
  
  
• 擠在手背, 按在腰攻: The pressing (ji) force comes from the back of the hand, and the pushing (an) force is rooted in the waist and directed outward.
• 採在十指, 挒在兩肱: The plucking (cai) force is generated from the ten fingers, and the striking (da) force comes from both arms.
• 肘在曲使, 靠在肩胸: The elbowing (zhou) force is used when the arm is bent, and the leaning (kao) force originates from the shoulders and chest.
• 蔡曰：八法之效，全賴胯部運轉。一切勁力，皆源於胯。The effectiveness of the eight methods entirely depends on the movement of the hips. All power originates from the hips.

Group 2: Movement and Posture

• 進在雲手, 退在轉肱: Advancing (jin) is achieved through cloud hands, and retreating (tui) is accomplished by turning the upper arm.
• 顧在三前, 盼在七星: Looking (gu) is directed towards the three points in front, and anticipating (pan) involves observing the seven stars (a reference to the opponent's potential movements).

• "Gu in the three fronts: Gu means to take care of and protect, meaning when engaging with an opponent, one must first take care of the three areas in front of their eyes, hands, and feet. Pan in the seven stars: Pan means to pay attention and watch, or it can also mean self-awareness. It's not just about eye techniques; pan involves listening as well. The eyes have their focus, the ears have their focus, and so does the whole body when practicing martial arts. It's like watching a child, your mind must be fully present. The seven stars refer to the seven parts of the body: head, shoulders, elbows, hands, hips, knees, and feet. Regardless of whether you're still or moving, you should always be mindful of whether these seven parts are relaxed and sinking."

  Analysis

  This passage is describing two important concepts in martial arts, particularly in the context of Tai Chi or other internal martial arts styles:

  • 顧在三前 (Gu in the three fronts): This emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and defensive preparedness. The three fronts refer to the areas immediately in front of the eyes, hands, and feet, which are the most vulnerable points during an engagement. By constantly paying attention to these areas, one can anticipate and respond to an opponent's attacks.
  • 盼在七星 (Pan in the seven stars): This concept is more about internal awareness and body mechanics. The "seven stars" refer to the seven major joints and body parts. By maintaining constant awareness of these parts, the practitioner can ensure that their body is relaxed, aligned, and ready to respond to any situation. The idea of "pan" also implies a deep level of concentration and focus, similar to the way a parent watches over a child.

  Key Takeaways:

  • Situational Awareness: The practitioner must always be aware of their surroundings and their opponent's movements.
  • Body Alignment: Maintaining correct posture and alignment is crucial for generating and channeling energy.
  • Relaxation and Softness: The emphasis on "鬆沉" (relaxed and sinking) indicates the importance of a relaxed and yielding body.
  • Internal Focus: The practitioner should cultivate a deep level of internal awareness and focus.

  In essence, this passage is advising practitioners to develop a holistic approach to martial arts, combining both external awareness and internal cultivation.

  
  

Group 3: Internal Principles

• 定在有隙, 中在得橫: Stillness (ding) occurs when there is an opportunity, and hitting the center (zhong) involves finding the horizontal (a reference to balance and timing).
• 滯在雙重, 通在單輕: Stagnation (zhi) happens when there is double weight, and flow (tong) occurs when there is single lightness (referring to weight distribution and movement).
• 虛在當守, 實在必沖: Emptiness (xu) is used for guarding, and fullness (shi) is used for attacking.
• 太極雲莊：虛非頑空，實非死實。守在靜守，蓄勢而動。冲者，流動，湧動也，實中有虛，湧來湧去。老子：道生一，一生二，二生三，三生萬物。萬物負陰而抱陽，沖氣以為和。Dao gives birth to one, one gives birth to two, two gives birth to three, and three gives birth to all things. All things carry yin and embrace yang, and through their interaction, a harmonious balance is achieved.大盈若沖，其用不窮。Great fullness is like emptiness, its use is inexhaustible.

Remember: These are very condensed explanations of complex concepts. To truly grasp their meaning, it's essential to practice Tai Chi and study under a qualified teacher.