The Founder of the Mount Hua Sect

Master Hao Datong – Founder of the Mount Hua Sect

The founder of the Mount Hua Sect had the surname Hao. He was born Lin and carried the style name Tai Gu, which means “Great Antiquity.” In addition, he assumed the name Tian Ranzi (Tranquil Master).

Hao studied under Wang Chongyang (1113–1170) of the Complete Perfection School, who gave him the sacred name Datong. He also went by Guang Ningzi (Master of Expansive Serenity). Originally, he came from Wendeng County, Dengzhou Prefecture, Shandong Province.

Life and Legacy

Master Hao was born during the Song dynasty, in the 10th year of Emperor Gao Zong’s reign (1140). Throughout his life, he devoted himself to cultivating martial skill. He also pursued spiritual knowledge with great dedication. He died on 30th December 1212 at the age of 72. According to tradition, he then ascended to the land of the immortals.

Later, in 1269, Emperor Shi Zu of the Yuan dynasty honoured Hao Datong with the title Guangning Tongxuan Taigu Zhenren (Perfected Man of Expansive Tranquility & Pervasive Mystery of Great Antiquity). Then, in 1310, the emperor elevated the title to Guangning Tongxuan Taigu Zhenjun (Perfected Lord of Expansive Tranquility & Pervasive Mystery of Great Antiquity).

As a result, Master Hao Datong became recognized as the founder and first ancestor of the Mount Hua Sect, establishing a lineage that continues to influence Chinese martial arts and spiritual practice today.