Fujian: (Hakka) Grand Ancestor Fist “Qinglong” (青龙) Form - Greets the Chinese New Year!
Translated by Shifu Adrian Chan-Wyles PhD
Translator's Note: Around 18-years ago, a longterm student training in our Hakka Longfist (长拳 - Chang Quan) martial arts Style asked a Chinese work colleague of his if he recognised the gongfu Form we practice. The answer was 'yes' - with the further explanation that what we practice is a version of 'Grand Ancestor Fist' (太祖拳 - Tai Zu Quan). What is interesting is that when visiting our Hakka Chinese relatives in the New Territories (Hong Kong) - we were told that the Hakka practice a number of branches of this very old military Style and that the 'Chan' (陳) Clan has preserved and transmitted a Qin Dynasty (221-207 BCE) version of 'Longfist'. The Qin Dynasty united a large swathe of geographical China and spread the culture of the Qin State to every area under its control - this did not include the Fujian region at this time - as this area was covered with dense and difficult to navigate forests, with substantial (malarial) swamps that spelt a certain death to brave explorers (the excellent work of the US academic - Mark Edward Lewis - explains the history of China in exact detail for those interested). At the same time, Fujian was inhabited with non-Han (indigenous) people that lived around the coastal areas whose DNA is still observable in today's very diverse Chinese population. It was around the time of Sui Dynasty (581-618 CE) that systematic in-roads were made by Chinese explorers into the interior of Fujian province - finally integrating this area into China proper. Since those times, various Chinese ethnic groups have migrated Southward into the area - as well as non-Chinese people arriving by boat and over-land from the Philippines, Okinawa, Japan, Thailand, Burma and Indonesia, etc. This migration was often stimulated by Chinese ships circumnavigating the South China Sea and beyond - travelling as far as Africa and perhaps even the Americas.
The Hakka (客家 - Ke Jia) are originally Northern Chinese people who may have mixed with non-Chinese people (including Caucasians) from the Chinese Steppe - who formed the population of the Qin State (situated in North-West China). This highly militaristic State existed for hundreds of years before taking on and defeating every other Chinese State. The King of Qin became the First Emperor of China and he instigated the Rule of Law (the same law applied everywhere to everyone regardless of status - a System known as 'Legalism'). Confucius, on the other hand, was of the opinion, that the law should be lenient and supportive of the nobility (perhaps comprising 10% of the population) - but crushing and oppressive toward the peasantry (the majority of people in ancient China). The Qin Dynasty converted every village into a military barracks and instigated the practice of 'Longfist' by every man, woman and child. I suspect that an official manual once existed that contained these 'Longfist' movements - but which has been lost. Perhaps one day this very important text might be discovered in an old tomb - similar to the 'Daoyin' (導引) text of 'stretching' and 'loosening' movements painted on a silk panel and found in a Han Dynasty Tomb dating to 168 BCE. This 'Mawangdui' (马王堆) text confirms that the movements found in the modern Taijiquan (太極拳) Styles are not 'new' (as suggested by certain Western historians) - but are rather thousands of years old. In this regard, I believe that the 'Grand Ancestor Fist' name derives from a branch of the Hakka 'Longfist' Style that was directly associated with a Song Dynasty (960-1279 BCE) Emperor. Although we practice exactly the same Style as described below - our lineage exists outside this branch and therefore we do not use this name - primarily because we are not entitled to. We practice an older version of Hakka 'Longfist' which was designed to train the massive Field Armies of the Qin Dynasty. After the collapse of the Qin Dynasty - the Style fragmented into individual (and often competing) Hakka Clan Lineages - that have been passed on from one generation to the next.
When one of our English students attempted to visit our ancestral Clan home - 'Banana Village' - in the Sai Kung area of the New Territories (Hong Kong) - the local Bus-Driver (who drove the small hopper bus around the country lanes of Sai Kung) would let him alight at the designated bend in the road - following our instructions of how to access our hidden village. This student was the only person left on the Bus and the Driver said that this is a 'Hakka' area and can be dangerous as the local people do not take kindly to people they do not know. Our village had to be accessed through a thick covering of trees - with no sign-posts anywhere. Usually, those on guard would release the vicious (but faithful) village dogs against anyone who got through these trees uninvited. My student had to return on the Bus to the Sai Kung Terminus disappointed. Even when I visited in early 1999 (with a group of ten ethnic Chinese relatives) the dogs were released before someone managed to make contact with a villager who owned a mobile telephone. I was pushed to the front of the group and managed to photograph the dogs as they bounded enthusiastically up the hill - but just as the lead dog was about to jump at me - a shout from an old man at the village gate immediately halted the dogs and they obediently returned to lurk somewhere in the village interior. When we reached the gate the ritual of identification began. What is our Clan Name? Who is our Clan Ancestor? Who have we come to see? Why have we come? So on, and so forth. I had brought my eldest daughter - Sue-Ling - who was around 2-years old, to be accepted into the Clan through the old rituals.
ACW (29.2.2024)
The Hakka (客家 - Ke Jia) are originally Northern Chinese people who may have mixed with non-Chinese people (including Caucasians) from the Chinese Steppe - who formed the population of the Qin State (situated in North-West China). This highly militaristic State existed for hundreds of years before taking on and defeating every other Chinese State. The King of Qin became the First Emperor of China and he instigated the Rule of Law (the same law applied everywhere to everyone regardless of status - a System known as 'Legalism'). Confucius, on the other hand, was of the opinion, that the law should be lenient and supportive of the nobility (perhaps comprising 10% of the population) - but crushing and oppressive toward the peasantry (the majority of people in ancient China). The Qin Dynasty converted every village into a military barracks and instigated the practice of 'Longfist' by every man, woman and child. I suspect that an official manual once existed that contained these 'Longfist' movements - but which has been lost. Perhaps one day this very important text might be discovered in an old tomb - similar to the 'Daoyin' (導引) text of 'stretching' and 'loosening' movements painted on a silk panel and found in a Han Dynasty Tomb dating to 168 BCE. This 'Mawangdui' (马王堆) text confirms that the movements found in the modern Taijiquan (太極拳) Styles are not 'new' (as suggested by certain Western historians) - but are rather thousands of years old. In this regard, I believe that the 'Grand Ancestor Fist' name derives from a branch of the Hakka 'Longfist' Style that was directly associated with a Song Dynasty (960-1279 BCE) Emperor. Although we practice exactly the same Style as described below - our lineage exists outside this branch and therefore we do not use this name - primarily because we are not entitled to. We practice an older version of Hakka 'Longfist' which was designed to train the massive Field Armies of the Qin Dynasty. After the collapse of the Qin Dynasty - the Style fragmented into individual (and often competing) Hakka Clan Lineages - that have been passed on from one generation to the next.
When one of our English students attempted to visit our ancestral Clan home - 'Banana Village' - in the Sai Kung area of the New Territories (Hong Kong) - the local Bus-Driver (who drove the small hopper bus around the country lanes of Sai Kung) would let him alight at the designated bend in the road - following our instructions of how to access our hidden village. This student was the only person left on the Bus and the Driver said that this is a 'Hakka' area and can be dangerous as the local people do not take kindly to people they do not know. Our village had to be accessed through a thick covering of trees - with no sign-posts anywhere. Usually, those on guard would release the vicious (but faithful) village dogs against anyone who got through these trees uninvited. My student had to return on the Bus to the Sai Kung Terminus disappointed. Even when I visited in early 1999 (with a group of ten ethnic Chinese relatives) the dogs were released before someone managed to make contact with a villager who owned a mobile telephone. I was pushed to the front of the group and managed to photograph the dogs as they bounded enthusiastically up the hill - but just as the lead dog was about to jump at me - a shout from an old man at the village gate immediately halted the dogs and they obediently returned to lurk somewhere in the village interior. When we reached the gate the ritual of identification began. What is our Clan Name? Who is our Clan Ancestor? Who have we come to see? Why have we come? So on, and so forth. I had brought my eldest daughter - Sue-Ling - who was around 2-years old, to be accepted into the Clan through the old rituals.
ACW (29.2.2024)
The body is upright and strong (like a mast) - whilst the feet are stable and adaptable (like a sound ship adjusting to the waters). The body as a unit – both expands and contracts (like a well-timed whip being cracked and retracted) - whilst its rhythmic momentum expresses a destructive ease (like the waves and the tides).
A few days ago (article written 18.1.2024), a high-standard Martial Arts Conference was held at Jingyuan Office Building (situated in Youkeng Village Square) of the Zhangzhou High-tech Zone (in Eastern Fujian province). Hundreds of martial arts enthusiasts from more than 20 "Double-Firing Dragon Training Halls" from Zhangzhou City competed in martial arts displays and celebrated the establishment of the National People's Congress. It was the 131st Anniversary of the Temple Training Hall and the 12th Anniversary of the “Grand Ancestor Qinglong Form” both being listed as a provincial-level “intangible cultural heritage”.
A few days ago (article written 18.1.2024), a high-standard Martial Arts Conference was held at Jingyuan Office Building (situated in Youkeng Village Square) of the Zhangzhou High-tech Zone (in Eastern Fujian province). Hundreds of martial arts enthusiasts from more than 20 "Double-Firing Dragon Training Halls" from Zhangzhou City competed in martial arts displays and celebrated the establishment of the National People's Congress. It was the 131st Anniversary of the Temple Training Hall and the 12th Anniversary of the “Grand Ancestor Qinglong Form” both being listed as a provincial-level “intangible cultural heritage”.
Grand Ancestor Fist - Inherited for Hundreds of Years!
The Zhangzhou martial arts of East Fujian (a coastal area) possess a long history - and are comprised of many types of ‘Fist’ (self-defence) Styles - which are widely distributed amongst the diverse population. According to the "Zhangzhou Physical Education Chronicle" - following the Jin Dynasty (240 CE) - the culture of the Central Plains migrated Southward. This development saw the emergence (and spread) of weapons such as (bronze) Pole-Axes (戈 - Ge) spears (矛 - Mao) – together with bronze and iron broadswords (大刀 – Da Dao) all of which stimulated the development of Zhangzhou martial arts. During the Tang Dynasty, martial arts Examinations were established (as part of the State Education for Scholar-Officials), and in the Song Dynasty, martial arts training was established amongst the people on a wide and broad scale. The practice of martial arts in Zhangzhou gradually became popular amongst the masses. The Ming and Qing Dynasties saw a period of relative martial arts prosperity in Zhangzhou – with Fujian province developing the distinctly “Chinese” cultural adherence to martial valour (which had existed outside Fujian for thousands of years). During the Republic of China, the martial arts activities of the City population involved the forming of Martial Arts Group comprising of many members, especially in rural areas where there were many martial arts halls and training areas. Most ordinary people spent their days farming (building psychological and physical strength through labour) whilst practicing martial arts in their leisure time. The fighting skills that were influential (and widely spread) throughout Zhangzhou city (in Fujian province) include:
a) Expansive Origination Fist (开元拳 – Kai Yuan Quan)
b) Five Ancestor Fist (五祖拳 – Wu Zu Quan) aka ‘Heyang Fist’ (何阳拳 – He Yang Quan)
c) Grand Ancestor Fist (太祖拳 – Tai Zu Quan)
d) White Crane Fist (白鹤拳 – Bai He Quan)
e) Hong Family Fist (洪家拳 – Hong Jia Quan)
f) Dragon Fist (龙拳 – Long Quan) aka ‘Five Animal Fist’ (五兽拳 – Wu Shou Quan)
As with all martial traditions throughout China – there are usually many more Styles not widely known or practiced – but important, nonetheless. Although these unusual Styles do not often appear on official lists (as they may be linked to reclusive spiritual traditions or secretive Clan practices, etc) – their importance for Chinese culture is immeasurable. Generally, these rare Styles emerge when China is threatened, and the country needs their expertise. Grand Ancestor Fist is an interesting case in-point as You Qingwen (游清文) - the 7th Generation Master of Grand Ancestor Fist Qinglong Form - explains: "Grand Ancestor Fist was introduced to Zhangzhou City during the Tongzhi Period of the Qing Dynasty (1861-1875 CE). It is said that this Style was created by Zhao Kuangyin (赵匡胤), Grand Ancestor of the Song Dynasty. At that time, a Hakka martial artist travelled South-West from Qinglong to Zhangzhou in Fujian (a journey of round 236 miles) and founded a martial arts school with the name of 'Ascending Dragon” (登龙 – Deng Long) Hall – within which he taught Grand Ancestor Fist." You Qingwen learned martial arts from his father You Yangyi (游养宜) since he was a child. He is a scholar and recognised Master of the historical development and technical practice of Grand Ancestor Fist. Therefore, the development of this Style in Zhangzhou is very well known and understood.
You Qinglong has been a righteous man throughout his life. He has travelled far and wide and visited many martial arts Masters – learning, training, and competing with each of them. However, since he founded the Shiwei (市尾) Martial Arts Hall within Zhangzhou City, he no longer has time to travel but has instead successively trained a number of outstanding fighters – being considered a Master in his own right. This is especially true since his students have left and opened their own schools in Longhai, Nanjing, Hua'an and many other places. These students are now recognised Teachers of the Grand Ancestor Fist Style – all with students of their own – spreading the Style far and wide.
The Zhangzhou martial arts of East Fujian (a coastal area) possess a long history - and are comprised of many types of ‘Fist’ (self-defence) Styles - which are widely distributed amongst the diverse population. According to the "Zhangzhou Physical Education Chronicle" - following the Jin Dynasty (240 CE) - the culture of the Central Plains migrated Southward. This development saw the emergence (and spread) of weapons such as (bronze) Pole-Axes (戈 - Ge) spears (矛 - Mao) – together with bronze and iron broadswords (大刀 – Da Dao) all of which stimulated the development of Zhangzhou martial arts. During the Tang Dynasty, martial arts Examinations were established (as part of the State Education for Scholar-Officials), and in the Song Dynasty, martial arts training was established amongst the people on a wide and broad scale. The practice of martial arts in Zhangzhou gradually became popular amongst the masses. The Ming and Qing Dynasties saw a period of relative martial arts prosperity in Zhangzhou – with Fujian province developing the distinctly “Chinese” cultural adherence to martial valour (which had existed outside Fujian for thousands of years). During the Republic of China, the martial arts activities of the City population involved the forming of Martial Arts Group comprising of many members, especially in rural areas where there were many martial arts halls and training areas. Most ordinary people spent their days farming (building psychological and physical strength through labour) whilst practicing martial arts in their leisure time. The fighting skills that were influential (and widely spread) throughout Zhangzhou city (in Fujian province) include:
a) Expansive Origination Fist (开元拳 – Kai Yuan Quan)
b) Five Ancestor Fist (五祖拳 – Wu Zu Quan) aka ‘Heyang Fist’ (何阳拳 – He Yang Quan)
c) Grand Ancestor Fist (太祖拳 – Tai Zu Quan)
d) White Crane Fist (白鹤拳 – Bai He Quan)
e) Hong Family Fist (洪家拳 – Hong Jia Quan)
f) Dragon Fist (龙拳 – Long Quan) aka ‘Five Animal Fist’ (五兽拳 – Wu Shou Quan)
As with all martial traditions throughout China – there are usually many more Styles not widely known or practiced – but important, nonetheless. Although these unusual Styles do not often appear on official lists (as they may be linked to reclusive spiritual traditions or secretive Clan practices, etc) – their importance for Chinese culture is immeasurable. Generally, these rare Styles emerge when China is threatened, and the country needs their expertise. Grand Ancestor Fist is an interesting case in-point as You Qingwen (游清文) - the 7th Generation Master of Grand Ancestor Fist Qinglong Form - explains: "Grand Ancestor Fist was introduced to Zhangzhou City during the Tongzhi Period of the Qing Dynasty (1861-1875 CE). It is said that this Style was created by Zhao Kuangyin (赵匡胤), Grand Ancestor of the Song Dynasty. At that time, a Hakka martial artist travelled South-West from Qinglong to Zhangzhou in Fujian (a journey of round 236 miles) and founded a martial arts school with the name of 'Ascending Dragon” (登龙 – Deng Long) Hall – within which he taught Grand Ancestor Fist." You Qingwen learned martial arts from his father You Yangyi (游养宜) since he was a child. He is a scholar and recognised Master of the historical development and technical practice of Grand Ancestor Fist. Therefore, the development of this Style in Zhangzhou is very well known and understood.
You Qinglong has been a righteous man throughout his life. He has travelled far and wide and visited many martial arts Masters – learning, training, and competing with each of them. However, since he founded the Shiwei (市尾) Martial Arts Hall within Zhangzhou City, he no longer has time to travel but has instead successively trained a number of outstanding fighters – being considered a Master in his own right. This is especially true since his students have left and opened their own schools in Longhai, Nanjing, Hua'an and many other places. These students are now recognised Teachers of the Grand Ancestor Fist Style – all with students of their own – spreading the Style far and wide.
You Jianhua (游建华), the City-Level Inheritor of the Grand Ancestor Fist, states that the Style practiced at Shiwei Martial Arts Hall belongs to the Southern “Zhao” (赵) Style of Grand Ancestor Fist. The style is characterized by the lower body (beneath the waist), adopting long and deep stances coupled with the upper-body utilising short-arm and hand (close-in) movements. The usage of this Style is adjusted to suit the conditions and is divided into the three ranges of far, medium, and close. Much time is taken building strength and sensitivity in the legs and feet so as to build a strong “root” into the ground – so that the practitioner is able to advance and retreat in an easy and flexible manner. Most techniques involve the “Dragon-Back”. The upper-back is naturally rounded whilst the chest is pulled-in (an empowering action found in many Hakka Styles). Attack and defence should focus on dominating the high-ground (like a bear stood on its hind-legs) so that attacks can be empowered through downward or downward (diagonal) momentum - hitting from east to west and North to South, etc. Stillness of mind and body dominates movement of mind and body. Movement of mind and body must remain essentially “still” – with “stillness” always prevailing over movement. In this way - arrive before moving – step before arriving. The rule is that the “yielding” (柔 - Rou) always overcomes the “rigid” (刚 - Gang) – even though “rigidness” is important for defence and survival. An effective offense emerges from a strong defence. Use “feinting” to confuse the opponent. Pretend to attack when defending – and defend when attacking. Fully realise (and integrate) the “Void” (虚 - Xu) with the “Form” (实 - Shi). Always (and naturally) adapt (and adjust) to “change” (变 - Bian) in an effortless manner.
It is reported that Fujian martial art Styles primarily fall within the Nanquan (Southern Fist) Tradition - and that there is a strong trend for practicing martial arts in various places throughout the province. The seven main Styles of Fujian martial arts Styles are:
1) Five Ancestor Fist (五祖拳 – Wu Zu Quan)
2) Yongchun White Crane Fist (永春白鹤拳 – Yongchun Bai He Quan)
3) Dragon Veneration Fist (龙尊拳 – Long Zun Quan)
4) Tiger Veneration Fist (虎尊拳 – Hu Zun Quan))
5) Dog Fist (狗拳 – Gou Quan)
6) Liancheng Fist (连城拳 – Liancheng Quan)
7) Fuzhou Crane Fist (福州鹤拳 – Fuzhou He Quan)
In 1993, the Editors of the "Fujian Physical Training Chronicle" added the following (Hakka) Northern Style to this primary list:
Zhangzhou Grand Ancestor Fist (漳州太祖拳 – Zhangzhou Tai Zu Quan)
Since then, the Fujian ‘Southern Fist’ (南拳 – Nan Quan) categorisation has changed in definition from the original seven - to eight major fighting Styles.
It is reported that Fujian martial art Styles primarily fall within the Nanquan (Southern Fist) Tradition - and that there is a strong trend for practicing martial arts in various places throughout the province. The seven main Styles of Fujian martial arts Styles are:
1) Five Ancestor Fist (五祖拳 – Wu Zu Quan)
2) Yongchun White Crane Fist (永春白鹤拳 – Yongchun Bai He Quan)
3) Dragon Veneration Fist (龙尊拳 – Long Zun Quan)
4) Tiger Veneration Fist (虎尊拳 – Hu Zun Quan))
5) Dog Fist (狗拳 – Gou Quan)
6) Liancheng Fist (连城拳 – Liancheng Quan)
7) Fuzhou Crane Fist (福州鹤拳 – Fuzhou He Quan)
In 1993, the Editors of the "Fujian Physical Training Chronicle" added the following (Hakka) Northern Style to this primary list:
Zhangzhou Grand Ancestor Fist (漳州太祖拳 – Zhangzhou Tai Zu Quan)
Since then, the Fujian ‘Southern Fist’ (南拳 – Nan Quan) categorisation has changed in definition from the original seven - to eight major fighting Styles.
Integration of Ancient Military Forms
Grand Ancestor Fist is now categorised as being part of the “Southern Fist” tradition and possesses a specific fighting technique. How did this Style evolve into a Form such as that seen in “Qinglong”? You Qingwen explains, "The Grand Ancestor Fist – as expressed through the Qinglong Form - is a martial arts development that combines the Grand Ancestor Fist ‘Folk’ practice (preserved within Clan and Village Lineages) with those techniques used for battlefield activity - as preserved within ancient Military Formation Training." You Qingwen further explains that the personage of You Zhenhui (游振辉) must also be mentioned. According to the "Zhangzhou Martial Arts Biographies Record” - You Zhenhui was originally a Military Instructor of the Zhangzhou Regimental Training Camp during the Qing Dynasty. You Zhenhui trained under the guidance of “He Shuidao” (何水道), the Chief Instructor of the Zhangzhou Regimental Training Camp.
After the Nationalist Revolution of 1911 CE, You Zhenhui established the “Double Emission” (双发 – Shuang Fa) Training Hall in Zhangzhou to teach his students. At that time, the "Ascending Dragon” Hall was in the hands of the 3rd Generation Successor - You Changchun (游长春) – who disagreed with Sectarion attitudes that prevent martial lineages from learning from one another. In order to overcome his School’s shortcoming in equipment, weaponry, and forms, he invited the Old Master - You Zhenhui - to teach his Military Training knowledge – which included the use of traditional (developmental) training equipment that conditioned the mind and body for the rigours of war - and Lion Dance techniques. This included an “Eight Trigrams” (八卦 – Ba Gua) Form and many types of different body-building devices being integrated into the training routines of the “Ascending Dragon” Hall. Indeed, out of respect for You Zhenhui, the “Ascending Dragon” Hall was renamed the “Double Emission Ascending Dragon” Hall – a name still used and known throughout Zhangzhou City today.
Through exchanges of knowledge between many different martial arts Masters - such as You Changchun and You Zhenhui - the Grand Ancestor Fist (that was transmitted through family lineages) was integrated with a military form of “Eight Trigrams” (Bagua) fighting. This synthesis formed the foundation for the new Style of martial arts known as “Qinglong” Grand Ancestor Fist (Taizu Quan). Today, there are at least twenty different Training Halls throughout Zhangzhou City teaching this Style. The Style of “Qinglong” Grand Ancestor Fist is considered unique as it contains a Form specialising in the use of “Iron Rods” (铁棍 – Tie Gun). Due to its military inheritance, students line-up in ranks - forming groups of twenty all wielding “Iron Rods” – with a single practitioner (per group) holding up a battle-banner. This is an ancient Chinese military formation (trained to change the shape of the formation) - similar to a ‘Platoon’ of soldiers in the West. This military discipline led to specific “mass” formations being developed such as:
i) Centipede Spreads Whiskers Formation (蜈蚣展须阵 – Wu Gong Zhan Xu Zhen)
ii) Sun Formation (太阳阵 – Tai Yang Zhen)
iii) Five Star Formation (五星阵 – Wu Xing Zhen)
iv) Plum Blossom Formation (梅花阵 – Mei Hua Zhen)
v) Double Ring Formation (双环阵 – Shuang Huan Zhen)
vi) Field Snail Formation (田螺 – Tian Luo Zhen)
vii) Tied-Up Immortal Formation (捆仙阵 – Kun Xian Zhen)
viii) Ten Thousand Characters Formation (万字阵 – Wan Zi Zhen)
These formations ensure that with the right amount of training, the shape of the lined-up students can be forever changed, manipulated and altered – just like the structure of a traditional Chinese Field Army! When trained to perfection, the interchange of formation becomes automatic, efficient, and seamless. The Master directs the banner-bearer and the banner-bearer leads the students - together with war-drums and cymbals being played. The students step, run, jump, and assume all manner of stances to a given order. Each student learns to stand in all places in the formation overtime, knowing intuitively when to turn left, right, forward, and back without hesitation. Students also move effortlessly from the outside of the formation to the interior of the formation. Interestingly, these formations can also “jump” as a group so as to quickly move the entire group out of the way of danger. Turning around and moving in the opposite direction is coordinated with groups splitting into two halves and acting as adversaries to one another – adversaries which suddenly fight one another with “Iron Rods”. The Master “shouts” orders which are echoed by his subordinates. The students, when striking with the “Iron Rods” let forth war cries – all of which ensures a very powerful display of formation fighting!
Whereas many martial Styles carry Black-coloured flags (the traditional colour of Hakka traditions) – the banner-bearers of the “Qinglong” Grand Ancestor Fist Style of Zhangzhou carried red-flags. You Qingwen explained, "The reason why the red-flag is used has a history. During the 1930s, when the Red Army entered Zhangzhou, You Changchun (and some local librarians) were influenced by progressive ideas and joined the Peasant Red Guards. During this period, the traditional black flag was replaced with the red-flag - and our Style was renamed ‘Qinglong Five-Star Form’ – at least for a time.”
Since Reform and Opening Up (post-1979), martial arts has received the positive attention of Party Committees and government departments at all levels, with martial arts historical research and practical work gradually increasing and developing in all areas. In recent years, the Martial Arts Hall mentioned above has organized and sent athletes to participate in various national, provincial and municipal martial arts observations, exchanges, selections, performances and competitions on many occasions - achieving outstanding results. In December 2011, the "Grand Ancestry Fist Qinglong Form" practiced in the Shiwei Martial Arts Hall situated in Zhangzhou City was listed as a prime example of provincial “Intangible Cultural Heritage” (by the UN) - becoming the first provincial example to be chosen to represent Zhangzhou's traditional martial arts.
Martial Arts Lineages Flow for Eternity
To celebrate the Grand Ancestry Fist Qinglong Form being listed as a provincial “Intangible Cultural Heritage” by the UN - from 2012 - more than twenty martial arts schools in eight counties (representing various cities and districts) in Zhangzhou have agreed to hold a regular Martial Arts Conference. The venue of this cultural event was decided to move around from one place to another – and between different Styles – each year. The purpose is to openly discuss the differences and similarities between the many Styles, and whilst protecting the differences, working-out ways that all Styles can assist one another in a) preserving the traditions of the Styles in a modern world, and b) making the Styles more open and accessible to the general public (including foreigners) without unduly disturbing the traditional framework.
A few days ago, the Jingyuan Office of the High-Tech Zone (in Zhangzhou City) - opened the Youkeng Village Square. It was here that the lively sound of gongs, drums and cymbals could be heard as the Lion Dance performers galloped out. Each Martial Arts Hall sent out participants, either throwing knives, dancing with sticks, or using their bare-hands to show off their unique skills. The finale of the programme were the unique skills Grand Ancestry "Qinglong" Form. The wonderful martial arts performance made all the people present keep applauding - and the scene received waves of cheers.
Among these martial arts enthusiasts, there were men and women of different ages as well as adults and children. The youngest martial arts enthusiasts were six or seven years old. As the oldest martial artist at the venue was 82-years-old - You Axing (游阿兴) - (from Xiamen) who attracted the attention of the entire audience with his vigorous and agile movements when practicing his Style of Grand Ancestor Fist.
"My ancestor - You Axing - is also from Shiwei Village. He later moved to Xiamen, but he still maintains the martial spirit." You Jianhua (游建华) further said, “The martial spirit cultivated by my ancestors made the villagers in this area practice martial arts with a particular vigour. In the past, they would ‘plough the fields when working as farmers’ – only practicing martial arts in their free time – their bodies already made strong through hours of hard-labour." Over the years, You Qingwen, You Jianhua and others have used village martial spaces to teach Grand Ancestor Fist on a voluntarily basis to children in the village – usually on weekends or during holidays. "Practicing martial arts not only strengthens the body and strengthens will-power - but is also beneficial to children's future study and work." You Qingwen explained that during the teaching process, attention is paid to educating the students in martial arts self-cultivation morality. Practicing martial arts is not for the sake of being aggressive - nor should they be used to bully the weak.
Recently, the Provincial Department of Education has announced fifty Primary and Secondary Schools in the province with good Martial Arts Foundation - as Pilot Schools for introducing martial arts into campus culture. Three Schools in Zhangzhou City have been shortlisted, including Nanjing County Lanshui Middle School. The Martial Arts Project which has applied for admission to this School is the Provincial Intangible Cultural Heritage (Zhangzhou) “Double Emission Ascending Dragon Hall – Grand Ancestry Fist Qinglong Form". Indeed, You Qingwen was hired as a Consultant and visited the School (from time to time) to provide guidance.
"Martial arts is a treasure of traditional Chinese culture. The 'Martial Arts on Campus' activity can cultivate the interest of students in martial arts. It not only promotes the healthy physical and mental development of young people but is also an effective way to carry forward National Traditional Culture and develop National Fitness." You Qingwen said that he hopes more people can understand and learn martial arts and carry forward the tradition of the Grand Ancestry Fist.
(Reporter Xiao Zhenping (萧镇平) - Correspondent Zheng Wendian (郑文典) - Text/Photo)
Source: Fujian Daily
©opyright: Adrian Chan-Wyles (ShiDaDao) 2024.
Grand Ancestor Fist is now categorised as being part of the “Southern Fist” tradition and possesses a specific fighting technique. How did this Style evolve into a Form such as that seen in “Qinglong”? You Qingwen explains, "The Grand Ancestor Fist – as expressed through the Qinglong Form - is a martial arts development that combines the Grand Ancestor Fist ‘Folk’ practice (preserved within Clan and Village Lineages) with those techniques used for battlefield activity - as preserved within ancient Military Formation Training." You Qingwen further explains that the personage of You Zhenhui (游振辉) must also be mentioned. According to the "Zhangzhou Martial Arts Biographies Record” - You Zhenhui was originally a Military Instructor of the Zhangzhou Regimental Training Camp during the Qing Dynasty. You Zhenhui trained under the guidance of “He Shuidao” (何水道), the Chief Instructor of the Zhangzhou Regimental Training Camp.
After the Nationalist Revolution of 1911 CE, You Zhenhui established the “Double Emission” (双发 – Shuang Fa) Training Hall in Zhangzhou to teach his students. At that time, the "Ascending Dragon” Hall was in the hands of the 3rd Generation Successor - You Changchun (游长春) – who disagreed with Sectarion attitudes that prevent martial lineages from learning from one another. In order to overcome his School’s shortcoming in equipment, weaponry, and forms, he invited the Old Master - You Zhenhui - to teach his Military Training knowledge – which included the use of traditional (developmental) training equipment that conditioned the mind and body for the rigours of war - and Lion Dance techniques. This included an “Eight Trigrams” (八卦 – Ba Gua) Form and many types of different body-building devices being integrated into the training routines of the “Ascending Dragon” Hall. Indeed, out of respect for You Zhenhui, the “Ascending Dragon” Hall was renamed the “Double Emission Ascending Dragon” Hall – a name still used and known throughout Zhangzhou City today.
Through exchanges of knowledge between many different martial arts Masters - such as You Changchun and You Zhenhui - the Grand Ancestor Fist (that was transmitted through family lineages) was integrated with a military form of “Eight Trigrams” (Bagua) fighting. This synthesis formed the foundation for the new Style of martial arts known as “Qinglong” Grand Ancestor Fist (Taizu Quan). Today, there are at least twenty different Training Halls throughout Zhangzhou City teaching this Style. The Style of “Qinglong” Grand Ancestor Fist is considered unique as it contains a Form specialising in the use of “Iron Rods” (铁棍 – Tie Gun). Due to its military inheritance, students line-up in ranks - forming groups of twenty all wielding “Iron Rods” – with a single practitioner (per group) holding up a battle-banner. This is an ancient Chinese military formation (trained to change the shape of the formation) - similar to a ‘Platoon’ of soldiers in the West. This military discipline led to specific “mass” formations being developed such as:
i) Centipede Spreads Whiskers Formation (蜈蚣展须阵 – Wu Gong Zhan Xu Zhen)
ii) Sun Formation (太阳阵 – Tai Yang Zhen)
iii) Five Star Formation (五星阵 – Wu Xing Zhen)
iv) Plum Blossom Formation (梅花阵 – Mei Hua Zhen)
v) Double Ring Formation (双环阵 – Shuang Huan Zhen)
vi) Field Snail Formation (田螺 – Tian Luo Zhen)
vii) Tied-Up Immortal Formation (捆仙阵 – Kun Xian Zhen)
viii) Ten Thousand Characters Formation (万字阵 – Wan Zi Zhen)
These formations ensure that with the right amount of training, the shape of the lined-up students can be forever changed, manipulated and altered – just like the structure of a traditional Chinese Field Army! When trained to perfection, the interchange of formation becomes automatic, efficient, and seamless. The Master directs the banner-bearer and the banner-bearer leads the students - together with war-drums and cymbals being played. The students step, run, jump, and assume all manner of stances to a given order. Each student learns to stand in all places in the formation overtime, knowing intuitively when to turn left, right, forward, and back without hesitation. Students also move effortlessly from the outside of the formation to the interior of the formation. Interestingly, these formations can also “jump” as a group so as to quickly move the entire group out of the way of danger. Turning around and moving in the opposite direction is coordinated with groups splitting into two halves and acting as adversaries to one another – adversaries which suddenly fight one another with “Iron Rods”. The Master “shouts” orders which are echoed by his subordinates. The students, when striking with the “Iron Rods” let forth war cries – all of which ensures a very powerful display of formation fighting!
Whereas many martial Styles carry Black-coloured flags (the traditional colour of Hakka traditions) – the banner-bearers of the “Qinglong” Grand Ancestor Fist Style of Zhangzhou carried red-flags. You Qingwen explained, "The reason why the red-flag is used has a history. During the 1930s, when the Red Army entered Zhangzhou, You Changchun (and some local librarians) were influenced by progressive ideas and joined the Peasant Red Guards. During this period, the traditional black flag was replaced with the red-flag - and our Style was renamed ‘Qinglong Five-Star Form’ – at least for a time.”
Since Reform and Opening Up (post-1979), martial arts has received the positive attention of Party Committees and government departments at all levels, with martial arts historical research and practical work gradually increasing and developing in all areas. In recent years, the Martial Arts Hall mentioned above has organized and sent athletes to participate in various national, provincial and municipal martial arts observations, exchanges, selections, performances and competitions on many occasions - achieving outstanding results. In December 2011, the "Grand Ancestry Fist Qinglong Form" practiced in the Shiwei Martial Arts Hall situated in Zhangzhou City was listed as a prime example of provincial “Intangible Cultural Heritage” (by the UN) - becoming the first provincial example to be chosen to represent Zhangzhou's traditional martial arts.
Martial Arts Lineages Flow for Eternity
To celebrate the Grand Ancestry Fist Qinglong Form being listed as a provincial “Intangible Cultural Heritage” by the UN - from 2012 - more than twenty martial arts schools in eight counties (representing various cities and districts) in Zhangzhou have agreed to hold a regular Martial Arts Conference. The venue of this cultural event was decided to move around from one place to another – and between different Styles – each year. The purpose is to openly discuss the differences and similarities between the many Styles, and whilst protecting the differences, working-out ways that all Styles can assist one another in a) preserving the traditions of the Styles in a modern world, and b) making the Styles more open and accessible to the general public (including foreigners) without unduly disturbing the traditional framework.
A few days ago, the Jingyuan Office of the High-Tech Zone (in Zhangzhou City) - opened the Youkeng Village Square. It was here that the lively sound of gongs, drums and cymbals could be heard as the Lion Dance performers galloped out. Each Martial Arts Hall sent out participants, either throwing knives, dancing with sticks, or using their bare-hands to show off their unique skills. The finale of the programme were the unique skills Grand Ancestry "Qinglong" Form. The wonderful martial arts performance made all the people present keep applauding - and the scene received waves of cheers.
Among these martial arts enthusiasts, there were men and women of different ages as well as adults and children. The youngest martial arts enthusiasts were six or seven years old. As the oldest martial artist at the venue was 82-years-old - You Axing (游阿兴) - (from Xiamen) who attracted the attention of the entire audience with his vigorous and agile movements when practicing his Style of Grand Ancestor Fist.
"My ancestor - You Axing - is also from Shiwei Village. He later moved to Xiamen, but he still maintains the martial spirit." You Jianhua (游建华) further said, “The martial spirit cultivated by my ancestors made the villagers in this area practice martial arts with a particular vigour. In the past, they would ‘plough the fields when working as farmers’ – only practicing martial arts in their free time – their bodies already made strong through hours of hard-labour." Over the years, You Qingwen, You Jianhua and others have used village martial spaces to teach Grand Ancestor Fist on a voluntarily basis to children in the village – usually on weekends or during holidays. "Practicing martial arts not only strengthens the body and strengthens will-power - but is also beneficial to children's future study and work." You Qingwen explained that during the teaching process, attention is paid to educating the students in martial arts self-cultivation morality. Practicing martial arts is not for the sake of being aggressive - nor should they be used to bully the weak.
Recently, the Provincial Department of Education has announced fifty Primary and Secondary Schools in the province with good Martial Arts Foundation - as Pilot Schools for introducing martial arts into campus culture. Three Schools in Zhangzhou City have been shortlisted, including Nanjing County Lanshui Middle School. The Martial Arts Project which has applied for admission to this School is the Provincial Intangible Cultural Heritage (Zhangzhou) “Double Emission Ascending Dragon Hall – Grand Ancestry Fist Qinglong Form". Indeed, You Qingwen was hired as a Consultant and visited the School (from time to time) to provide guidance.
"Martial arts is a treasure of traditional Chinese culture. The 'Martial Arts on Campus' activity can cultivate the interest of students in martial arts. It not only promotes the healthy physical and mental development of young people but is also an effective way to carry forward National Traditional Culture and develop National Fitness." You Qingwen said that he hopes more people can understand and learn martial arts and carry forward the tradition of the Grand Ancestry Fist.
(Reporter Xiao Zhenping (萧镇平) - Correspondent Zheng Wendian (郑文典) - Text/Photo)
Source: Fujian Daily
©opyright: Adrian Chan-Wyles (ShiDaDao) 2024.
Chinese Language Text: https://www.fujian.gov.cn/zwgk/ztzl/sxzygwzxsgzx/sdjj/wvjj/202401/t20240118_6382614.htm
拳法传百年 “青龙”舞新岁
2024-01-18 09:10
身如桅杆脚如船,伸缩如鞭势如澜。
日前,一场高规格的武术大会在漳州高新区靖圆办游坑村广场上举行,漳州市20多个“双发登龙堂”的数百名武术爱好者在此切磋武艺,共同庆祝建馆131周年暨“太祖拳青龙阵”列入省级非遗12周年。
太祖拳术传承百年
漳州武术源远流长、拳种繁多、分布较广。据《漳州体育志》记载,从晋朝(240年)以后,中原文化南迁,铜戈、铜矛、青铜剑和铁大刀等兵器的出现和传播,推进了漳州武术的发展。唐设武举,宋立武学,漳州民间练拳习武风气渐盛。明清两朝,是漳州武术活动较为活跃的时期。民国期间,市内民间拳社的武术活动也相当活跃,会员众多,尤其农村国术馆、社较多,农忙务农,农闲习武,在漳州流传广、影响较大的拳术主要有开元拳、五祖拳(何阳拳)、太祖拳、白鹤拳、洪家拳、龙拳(五兽拳)等。
“太祖拳是在清朝同治年间传入漳州市尾,该拳相传为宋太祖赵匡胤所创,当时是一位客家人游青龙来到漳州,创办了一间武馆,堂号‘登龙堂’,传授太祖拳。”作为太祖拳青龙阵第七代掌门人的游清文表示,他是太祖拳省级非遗传承人,自小跟父亲游养宜习武,对于太祖拳在漳州的发展脉络了如指掌。
游青龙一生行侠好义,曾云游四方、遍访豪杰,但自从在漳州市尾创办武术馆后,便不再继续游侠生活,陆续培养出一批优秀的拳师。而后,这些徒弟开枝散叶,到龙海、南靖、华安等地开馆收徒,呈传播光大之势。
太祖拳市级非遗传承人游建华说,市尾武术馆练的太祖拳属南派风格的赵太祖拳,风格特点为上盘有长基,也有短手。其势分三节,入手可变化。下盘要求落地生根,进退跳跃灵活自如。身法多含胸拔背。攻防讲究取上而能下、击东能击西、入手即提步、提步即入手,以静克动,守则以柔克刚、以守带攻,攻则以假乱真、虚虚实实,自然而然、随机应变。
据悉,福建武术以南拳为主,各地方练拳的风气浓烈。主要的七大拳种有:五祖拳、永春白鹤拳、龙尊拳、虎尊拳、狗拳、连城拳、福州鹤拳。1993年,《福建省·体育志》把漳州太祖拳也加入主要拳种行列,自此,福建南拳由原来七大拳种变为八大拳种。
融合古代军营阵法
太祖拳属于南拳,是一种拳法,那么它是如何演变出青龙阵这么一个阵法呢?
“太祖拳青龙阵是一种将民间太祖拳法和古代军营阵法相结合的武术阵法。”游清文说,这里面就必须提到一个人——游振辉。
据《漳州武术人物志》记载,游振辉原为清朝漳州团练营教头,其师从漳州团练总教头何水道。
辛亥革命后,游振辉在漳州设馆“双发堂”授徒传艺。彼时的“登龙堂”已到第三代传人游长春手中,为弥补本派器械套路之不足,不拘门户之见,他特邀老拳师游振辉来馆传教军营公步器械及舞狮法,将清代武营的八卦阵法和公步器械套路传入漳州市尾“登龙堂”武术馆。为纪念游振辉,“登龙堂”武术馆改堂号为“双发登龙堂”,沿袭至今。
通过游长春和游振辉等众多武师的交流融合,将民间太祖拳法和古代军营阵法“八卦阵”进行结合,创造出一种全新的拳术阵法——“太祖拳青龙阵”,并传给漳州各县20多家武术馆。
漳州太祖拳青龙阵独树一帜,它是用铁棍排练的一套别具风格的阵法,由一名旗手和20名手持铁棍的武师组成。阵法依次演变为“蜈蚣展须阵”“太阳阵”“五星阵”“梅花阵”“双环阵”“田螺阵”“捆仙阵”,最后形成“万字阵”。阵容变化多端,在一系列阵势排练过程中,武师随着旗手挥旗导引,在锣鼓武乐的相助下,按方位、随阵法,跑跳窜跃、步法灵活,或上下对练,或左右对练,或内外对练,或正面对练,或侧面对练,或转身对练,铁棍撞击、武师呐喊,使得整个阵法威力强劲、气势澎湃,场面壮观。
相比其他拳派阵法都是黑色旗,“太祖拳青龙阵”旗手所舞的旗是红色旗。“之所以用红色旗,是有来历的。”游清文说,在上世纪30年代,红军进漳期间,因为游长春和一些馆员受进步思想影响,参加农民赤卫队,其间,把黑色旗改为红色旗,还一度把“青龙阵”易名为“青龙五星阵”。
改革开放以来,武术得到各级党委和政府的重视,武术工作逐渐恢复和发展。近年来,武术馆多次组织并派出选手参加国家、省、市的各种武术观摩、交流、选拔、表演、比赛,均取得不俗的成绩。2011年12月,漳州市尾武术馆的“太祖拳青龙阵”被列为省非物质文化遗产,成为漳州传统武术首个省级非遗。
武脉延续源源不息
为庆祝太祖拳青龙阵列入省级非遗,从2012年开始,漳州8个县(市、区)20多家研习太祖拳的武术馆约定,每年定时举行一次武林大会,轮流做东,共同交流、切磋,传承中华武术。
日前,漳州高新区靖圆办游坑村广场,随着大鼓凉伞、腰鼓等热闹的锣鼓声响起,随着舞狮飞奔而出,各武术馆分别派出选手,或甩刀,或舞棍,或赤手空拳,尽露绝活。压轴节目,则是拿手绝活“青龙阵”。精彩的武术表演令在场的所有群众不停鼓掌,现场迎来一波又一波欢呼声。
这些武术爱好者中,有男也有女,年龄大有不同,有成年人也有儿童,其中年龄最小的武术爱好者只有六七岁。作为会场年龄最大的武者,今年已82岁的游阿兴来自厦门,打起太祖拳来精神矍铄、健步如飞,吸引了全场的目光。
“游阿兴祖上也是市尾村的,后来迁居到厦门,却仍然保持尚武的精神。”游建华说,先辈留下的尚武精神让这一带的村民习武成风,过去有“忙时去耕田,闲时来练拳”的说法。
这些年来,游清文和游建华等利用村里的戏台,在周末或节假日向村里的小孩义务传授太祖拳。“习武不仅能强身健体、增强意志力,对孩子们今后的学习工作也有好处。”游清文说,在传授过程中,他们也注意教育学徒的武德修养,习武不是为了争强好斗,更不应欺负弱小。
日前,省教育厅公布全省50所具有良好武术基础的中小学作为武术进校园试点学校,漳州市有3所学校入围,其中就包括南靖县兰水中学,申报入校的武术项目就是省级非遗“漳州市双发登龙堂——太祖拳青龙阵”,游清文受聘为顾问,不定期到学校进行指导。
“武术作为中国传统文化中的瑰宝,‘武术进校园’活动能够培养学生对武术的兴趣,不仅能促进青少年的身心健康发展,也是弘扬民族传统文化,发展全民健身的有效途径。”游清文说,希望有更多的人能够了解武术、学习武术,将太祖拳发扬光大。(记者 萧镇平 通讯员 郑文典 文/图)