Thousand Gates

Since ancient times, people in the world have been divided into three teachings and nine streams. Regardless of whether it is Buddhism, Taoism, or Confucianism, or the upper, middle, and lower nine streams, individuals must have a profession to sustain their lives. Whether one serves as an official or engages in commerce, the identity associated with a profession is inescapable. This has led to the emergence of countless trades. The myriad of industries can generally be categorized into three hundred sixty-five minor trades and seventy-two major trades. Hence, it is often said in popular sayings that among the seventy-two trades, every trade produces its own top talent. However, there are also some paths that do not fall under the hundred trades of the world, yet exist among the artisans of the three teachings and nine streams. Among them, the most representative and organized is the eight major trades of the rivers and lakes, commonly referred to as the external eight trades.

This book describes a world of rivers and lakes that exists around you and me

The book mentions that techniques such as sleight of hand, theft methods, mechanisms, and secret skills all exist in reality; however, the author does not advocate for their use in pursuing personal gain. Should such phenomena occur, the author of this book will not bear any consequences. Remember!