This trend followed the increased influence of the Taoist Academy, with many strong figures imitating it, serving as a way to exert their own influence. However, passing on the Taoist skills and actually accepting someone as a disciple are two different matters.
In the practice of hearing the Tao under a strong master, one claims to be a registered disciple. However, this is merely a social formality and does not amount to much.
Being accepted as a direct disciple, even if not the closed-door disciple inheriting the mantle, means being connected with the master's qi luck. While expressing utmost respect and obedience to the master, the master also holds the responsibility of planning for the disciple's future.
