The preservation of Daoist practitioners' bodies after death, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as "Shijie" or "liberation from the corpse," is a complex subject rooted in Daoist beliefs and practices. According to various sources, including entries from Wikipedia and academic papers, this preservation is linked to the esoteric dimensions of the body that are activated through Daoist religious practices.
Daoism encompasses a belief in a fundamental universal principle, the Tao, and practices that aim to align with this principle, which can include methods for achieving a form of immortality or a state where the body does not decay post-mortem. This is not a common occurrence and is typically associated with advanced practitioners who have mastered certain techniques. The concept of "internal alchemy" (nei dan, 内丹) is one such method mentioned, where the practitioner cultivates an "elixir" by nurturing vital energy within the body.
While the exact mechanisms behind this preservation are not scientifically explained, it is clear that it is deeply intertwined with the spiritual and philosophical beliefs of Daoism. The preservation of the body is seen as a sign of spiritual achievement and alignment with the Tao. It's important to note that such occurrences are rare and often surrounded by anecdotal evidence and spiritual interpretations rather than empirical scientific data. For more detailed information, one can refer to scholarly articles and Daoist texts that delve into these practices and beliefs.