Secret Teachings on the Three Wheels
(SANJUBIZHI)
The three wheels refer to the three waterwheels. The first wheel circulates vapor. It is called the Microcosmic Orbit and is involved in the application of fire in the hours of zi and wu. The second wheel circulates generative energy. It is known as the waterwheel of the jade elixir and is used to move water for purposes of incubating and nourishing the sacred fetus. The third wheel circulates both generative energy and vapor. It is called the Macrocosmic Orbit and is involved in moving the pre-celestial metal of mercury. This wheel is responsible for returning the numeric seven and the numeric nine to the dantien to complete the great pill. The movement of the three wheels is driven by true spirit and true intention. If you understand the secret of the three wheels, the generative, vital, and spirit energies within you will be strong and wholesome, and you will be able to attain human, terrestrial, and celestial immortality.