Ma Peizhi,
courtesy name Wenzhi,
was one of the four great physicians of
the Menghe medical school.
Life Journey of Ma Peizhi
1880
Summoned to Beijing to treat Empress Dowager Cixi. His diagnosis was precise, and his treatment was effective. Cixi praised him as "The Best Doctor in the Northwest" (西北第一人) and awarded him a plaque.
1820-1879
Born into a prestigious medical family in Menghe. His grandfather, Ma Sesan, was a famous physician. After his father died young, he was raised and trained by his grandfather. He studied not only the family's secret prescriptions for external diseases (surgery/dermatology) but also delved into internal medicine under Fei Boxiong. This laid the foundation for his unique expertise in both internal and external medicine.
1880-1890
During this period, he compiled his extensive clinical experience. His representative works include The Records of Imperial Medical Consultations (Ji En Lu) and The Essential Guide to Surgery (Wai Ke Chuan Xin Ji).
1903
Ma Peizhi passed away at the age of 83. He was instrumental in raising the Menghe School to a national academic standard. He is known for his meticulousness and logic. He emphasized that "to be a great surgeon, one must first be a great internist."
The Essential Guide to Surgery (Wai Ke Chuan Xin Ji).
The Records of Imperial Medical Consultations (Ji En Lu)
1866
1872
1878
1881
1885
Born in Menghe Town, Wujin, Jiangsu Province.
Entered a private school to study the Four Books and Five Classics, establishing a strong foundation in classical Chinese literature.
Began studying the Treatise on Febrile Diseases (Shanghan Lun), entering the world of medicine due to family financial hardships.
Formally apprenticed to his cousin Ding Songxi to learn the theories of Fei Boxiong. He later studied under Ma Zhongqing, Ma Peizhi, and the Chao family, mastering internal medicine, external medicine, and throat specialties.
Left Menghe for Suzhou to practice medicine. Faced fierce competition and initial poverty.
1894
Recommended by Chao Chongshan to practice at the Renji Benevolent Hall. During this period, he also studied under the Scarce Cold (Shanghan) master Wang Lianshi.