《太上洞玄灵宝无量度人上品经法》Vol. 3

“Middle Section of the Book of the Primordial Spirit” and “Middle Section of the Book of the Primordial Beginning Spirit” are both titles that the Dao Lord personally marked beneath the heading. The main text records the hidden sounds of the Great Brahma Heaven: the scripture contained in the Middle Section of the Book of the Spirit, made up of jade characters from the thirty-two heavens. It is called the “Cloud Seal Chapter of Radiant Light.”

The “Middle Section of the Great Scripture” gives the inner sounds and meanings of the Great Brahma jade characters of the thirty-two heavens. It contains the purport of countless hidden words and is a secret section of the Book of the Spirit of the Primordial Ancestral Qi—the Qi of the Primordial Beginning, the origin of the cosmos. Tradition attributes its composition to the Jade Dawn Dao Lord and its transcription to the Celestial Perfect Sovereign. Hidden in the text are the secret talismans and taboos of the Great Cavern—that is, the secret talismans and taboos of the Great Cavern scripture tradition—and the meaning of the Opening of the Charts through the Five Kalpas, the mystery of the cosmos unfolding over five kalpas. The text has 256 characters, arranged across the thirty-two heavens, with eight characters for each heaven. Its arrangement corresponds inwardly to the Bagua (Eight Trigrams): Qian, Kun, Kan, Gen, Zhen, Xun, Li, and Dui. These are further derived into the sixty-four hexagrams, with each line corresponding to one hexagram. The arrangement also runs through the sixty sexagenary cycles. The Qian, Kun, Kan, and Li trigrams lie outside the scope of the six jia cycles and are not bound by the order of the Jiazi cycle.

Li Shaowei says: The annotations here all follow the inner-sound explanations of the Celestial Perfect Sovereign. At times, they cut away redundancies and extract the essential meaning; at times, they add words to clarify the sense. They also rearrange the order of the scripture. The original sequence is not followed so that readers can grasp the meaning more quickly.

Jade Characters of the Naturally Formed Azure Heaven of the Nine Qi in the East:

“Danlou A Cang, Dingchou. Wuhe Guanyin. Wuyin Yinwen.” These are the jade characters of the Azure Heaven of the Nine Qi in the East and their corresponding phonetic renderings.

Vast and far-reaching, it lies above, connected to the palace of the Mysterious Metropolis, also called Loudou. A’na is the name of a deity in the palace of the Mysterious Metropolis, who governs the Qi of the Great Brahma. A’na beats Loudou’s drum to summon all the Perfected, who go together to pay court to the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning. Hui is the name of the pavilion where the Imperial Lord roams; there the clouds are abundant and the scenery beautiful. Wu means the Great Nonbeing: in the midst of Great Nonbeing, True Qi arises spontaneously. He is the name of the Gate of Tianyue. Guan is the personal name of the Imperial Lord in the Heaven of Contemplative Awareness. Yin refers to the sound of these eight characters.

When people recite these eight characters, the Perfected ride a golden wheel to open the realm of darkness, while Jade Maidens raise ornate banners to clear a path for the departed. The Lord of Contemplative Awareness oversees the registers of the Long Night. He can deliver the souls of the Ninefold Darkness from the netherworld in all four directions, bring light to seven generations of ancestors, and even restore life to dry, decayed remains.

Xuyan Ming Shou, Ji Mao. Falan Putan, Geng Chen Chouwen.

These eight characters are the inner sounds of Jade Perfection Heaven. Xuyan is the name of the heavenly gate in the northwest of Jade Perfection Heaven. When the cycles of the great kalpas turn, the heavenly gate of Xuyan opens, and the Jade Perfected and High Sages return through it. Ming Shou is the chief herald of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning. When the Celestial Worthy opens a new cosmic era, the chief herald clears the way and guides the procession, and the Brahma Qi is thereby made manifest. Fa refers to the Dharma Wheel, the place where sins and blessings are judged; Lan is the personal name of the Imperial Lord in the Heaven of Contemplative Awareness. Pu refers to Bodhi, and Tan to Tanyi; both are Perfected Ones of the Upper Origin.

When people recite this passage from the Cavern Scripture, the Dharma Wheel sends the relevant registers to the Director of Destiny, while Lan enables souls to be delivered and restored to life. Bodhi holds the nine-colored command banner and sets the cycles in motion; Tanyi waves the Banner of Ten Severances, allowing life to continue. The heavens and earth receive this, and so endure without decline; all things receive it, and so remain forever.

“Jana Ayi, Xinsi. Huhe Liuyin. In the storehouse, with Siming, grasp awakening and guide souls into renewed life. Bodhi holds the nine-colored banner and sets the cycles in motion; Tanyi turns the banner of the Ten Extinctions and brings the ancient tree to rest. Heaven and Earth gain it and it is beyond price; all things gain it and endure forever.”

“Jana Ayi, Xinsi. Huhe Liuyin. In the storehouse, it points to Chinese writing.” These eight characters are celestial hidden words belonging to Hetong Heaven. Jana is the name of the Master of the True Chart in Heaven. He oversees the registers of human life and death, commands all the immortals, and dwells in the Golden Flower Palace. The Golden Flower Palace is linked to Dragon Mountain. Its radiance shines above Jade Clarity, and clouds fill the depths of the Cavern of Emptiness. Ayi is the name of a tree in the Forest of Seven Treasures. This forest is a garden where the highest sages wander and admire the scenery, and where perfected beings play.

“Hu” means awakening and is also the sacred name of the Flying Heaven God King. “He” refers to Hemo. In Heaven, Hemo is a title for the Heavenly Worthy of Primordial Beginning. When a cosmic cycle comes to an end, Hemo will reveal the teachings and deliver all beings, both heavenly and human. The Heavenly Worthy already knew that, in a future cycle, the world would fall into ruin and the true scriptures disappear, so he spread these songs in advance. If people can recite this passage from the Cavern Chapter, the Master of the True Chart will erase their names from the registers of sin during the long night and enter them in the register of life in the Southern Palace.

“Huadu Quli, Guiwei. Xianbuyuzhen. Jiashen Maowen.” These eight characters are celestial hidden words belonging to Pingyu Heaven. “Huadu” refers to entering a person’s name in the register of life in the Southern Palace in Heaven.

“These eight characters” are celestial secret words belonging to Pingyu Heaven. “Huadu” is another name for the Qinghua Gate of the Taiji Palace in Heaven. “Qu” refers to heavenly Brahma immortals flying above the Taiji Palace, borne by a fresh, wondrous wind as they chant the melodies of the Dongzhang. “Li” is the name of the Jade Maiden of Great Harmony. “Xian” refers to auspicious clouds, also called celebratory clouds. “Pu” refers to the heavenly Pulous. “Yu” is the hidden name of the Imperial Lord of Heaven. “Zhen” means “to arrive.”

The Emperor Yu often rides the Wheel of the Eight Radiances, surveying the eight directions of the celestial realms as far as the dwellings of ghosts and spirits. He waves the Banner of the Ten Absolutes to summon the demon host and lift up and receive the immortals. If people can recite this passage from the Dongzhang, the Flying Immortals will respond from afar, and divine officials from the Three Realms will come to welcome them. Their seven generations of ancestors will be freed from the dark realm and ascend together to the Southern Palace.

“Da Luo Dafan, Yiyou. Scattering incense smoke, auspicious clouds. Bingxu, Chen script.”

These eight characters are celestial secret words belonging to Wenju Heaven. “Da” is the name of the Jade Tower in Heaven; “Luo” describes the palace towers as lofty and spacious. “Da” also refers to the Greatly Merciful Celestial Worthy granting a great amnesty at the beginning of the creative transformation, an act called “Great Mercy.” This empties the three evil paths and halts interrogations in the Ninefold Darkness. “Fan” refers to Brahma Qi, which can open the Tribulation of Longhan. “Scattering incense smoke” refers to immortals releasing fragrant smoke before the Jade Tower; “auspicious clouds” means clouds in all five colors. The auspicious clouds join with the Purple Hall, while the Flying Immortals dance upon wheels in the sky.

“Flying and scattering over the Jade Capital” belongs to Dinghai. “Illuminating demons at the upper gate” belongs to Wuzi, in the Si script. The text that follows explains: “The Ninefold Darkness halts its interrogations.” “Fan” refers to Brahma Qi, which can open the Tribulation of Longhan. “Scattering incense smoke” refers to immortals releasing fragrance at the Jade Tower. “Auspicious clouds” are clouds in all five colors; they join with the Purple Hall, while the Flying Immortals dance upon wheels in the sky.

“Feitian sa yu, du ming mo shang men”—these eight characters are the inner utterance, or celestial secret language, of the Moyitian heaven. Feitian is the name of the flying celestial beings. When the cycles of Heaven and Earth decline and the Yan-kang calamity arrives—a period when Heaven and Earth grow sealed off and all things fall silent—darkness reigns without light. The flying celestial beings then open the light and spread its radiance, allowing the heavens to receive the primordial Qi.

“Sa” refers to the swift return at the end of the Long-han calamity, one of the great cycles in the workings of Heaven and Earth. “Yu” is the taboo name of the Jade Perfected Emperor of the Moyitian heaven, who oversees the opening of the dark realm and the rescue of those in distress. “Du” refers to Fengdu in the Ninefold Hells, the land of the dead. If a person has accumulated good deeds, the Jade Perfected opens the gate of the long night for them, and Fengdu frees them from the realm of the Eight Hardships. “Ming” means that one should understand the meaning of these eight characters. “Mo” refers to the demon king, “shang” to the Supreme Lord, and “men” to the Supreme Lord’s retinue. If a person can understand the meaning of these eight characters, the demon king will show reverence. The Supreme Lord will protect and nurture their spirit in the gate of the primordial birth. Han Jun, a member of the retinue, will keep the records of merit and fault and determine the length of life in the Southern Palace, allowing blessings to extend to nine generations of kin and benefitting both the living and the dead.

“Wuxing shangshou, jichou. Huizhi liuxuan. Wuwen.”

These eight characters are the inner utterance of the Yueheng heaven. “Wu” refers to the Supreme Dao: that is, the primordial Qi opens and reveals the highest Dao. “Xing” refers to the governing principles of the Dao of Heaven in motion. They extend to the eight directions, while sacred Brahma-Qi spreads everywhere without pause. “Shangshou” refers to the Northern Dipper’s palace of judgment, which oversees transgressions. “Hui” means to turn; “zhi” means to tread. At the beginning of the cosmic calamity, the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning treads through the void, sets Heaven and Earth in motion, and spreads teachings to the ten directions. “Liu” refers to the radiance of the flowing dawn, which illuminates the shadowy halls of the long night; “xuan” means emptiness. In the vision of the Mysterious Capital above Yueheng heaven stands a mountain with an empty peak, where the myriad sages dwell and where the living and the dead go. If one’s cultivation of the Dao is not yet complete, the body must pass away; the soul ascends to the empty peak and, after refinement, gains life anew.

“Adalongluo, sixiang yuyuan. Gengyin zhi shangwen.”

These eight characters belong to the “Hidden Sounds of Mengyi Heaven,” the secret meanings of celestial sounds passed down from Mengyi Heaven.

“E” refers to a mountain in Heaven whose nine winding ridges stretch on and join together. “Tuo” refers to the pavilions on the mountain, which rise upward and connect with the Qi of Jade Clarity. The Lord Emperor often rides on three-colored clouds, touring the ridges of A Hill and surveying the sins of living beings from above. “Long” refers to Dragon Mountain, which lies nine hundred million li from A-Tuo Mountain. “Luo” is a name for the sun and moon. The Jade Latitude records that the perfected beings of the Nine Heavens of Highest Clarity call the sun “Radiant Luo.” The passage describes interwoven mountain ridges, with the light of the sun and moon shining across their peaks.

“Si” refers to the palaces of the Four Extremes: Eastern Florescence, the Southern Pole, Western Numinous Clarity, and Northern Truth. The perfected beings of the Four Extremes oversee the registers of life and death. “Xiang” refers to the elephant chariot. The perfected beings often ride in elephant carriages as they tour the Three Realms, inspecting the records of worldly people’s lives, deaths, and transgressions, and delivering those who cultivate the Dao. “Xu” is the personal name of the Heavenly Emperor of Nurturing and Flourishing. Also known as the Lord of the Southern Palace Who Grants Life, he oversees the refinement and deliverance of withered remains. “Yuan” refers to the young boy born within the sun, whose task is to infuse the celestial beings with vital fluids.

If a person can recite this passage from the Cavern Chapter, their name will be entered in the Heavenly Emperor’s register. After death, they will be delivered by the Lord of the Southern Palace. The Four Extremes will bestow a naturally formed feathered carriage, and their ancestors of seven generations will rejoice and receive blessings in the Hall of Felicity.

After reciting, click the teeth nine times, gently close the eyes, and visualize the wondrous Qi of the Nine Numinous Ones: a jade-green radiance arriving from the boundless, mysterious emptiness of the east. After a short while, softly recite the invocation to the Lord of Jade Dawn.

Invocation to the Lord of Jade Dawn for the Measureless Sound of the Eight Heavens of the East:

Vast and majestic, it connects with the splendid gates of Heaven; the divine and revered True Lord, the One of the Emperor, dwells within. The numinous void meets the sun and moon, and wondrous illumination shines upon the shadowed ford.

The Jade Pass turns the course of Qi, and Brahma Qi opens the realm of Utmost Clarity. The celestial gods wave their banners and proclaim the Cavern Chapter; the Heavenly Lord governs the wheel of creation.

Golden Radiance—the golden spiritual effulgence that symbolizes the realm of the immortals—presides over the registers of the immortals and encircles Dragon Mountain Palace. Treasured, numinous scenes shine brilliantly, while the perfected immortals feast and wander in delight atop the lofty city walls.

The light mist disperses, becoming wondrous clouds that nourish Jing and Qi and sustain my body. The flying immortals—celestial beings who have ascended—watch the convergence of the cycles of calamity and praise the scriptures of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning.

Taiji raises the green key-gate. The morning light shines everywhere, bringing all things to sprout and grow. Clear radiance illumines the heavens, and I calmly and joyfully visualize the Jade Infant, the image of the primordial spirit cultivated within.

The Celestial Nurturers ride a revolving carriage of light, raising the souls of seven generations of ancestors. The vast law spreads like a flying framework of heavenly order, reaching throughout the foundations of Heaven and Earth.

Auspicious rosy clouds veil the heights of the sky. In the purple celestial pavilion dwell perfected beings and Heavenly Lords. Majestic divine radiance shines upon the Palace of Azure Mystery, dispelling calamities and trials and subduing evil spirits and baleful forces.

The Great Dao accords with the lofty, primordial realm of chaos. Spirit and Qi congeal in the Mudball Palace, the upper Dantian within the head. Above the numinous mound rise clouds of three colors, their radiance interwoven and reflected upon peaks as splendid as jade.

Seven and nine are paired and put to use; three and five unite and work their efficacy. Together they harmonize the Virtue of balanced Qi. Through transformation and refinement, one surpasses the ranks of the perfected immortals.

When the invocation is complete, visualize the Nine Spirits’ wondrous Qi described above, along with nine layers of azure clouds encircling and covering the whole body.

Nine black numinous dragons guide and protect you on either side. At the same time, silently recite the spell:

“Crimson Brightness opens the celestial registers; the primordial Qi of the eight directions returns to the True Dao. Command the Gate of Primordial Mystery, Great Spirit of the Azure Emperor. Your transformations spread beyond the Nine Heavens, extending and encircling my body. Numinous, wondrous sounds become eight kinds of talismanic writings, altogether sixty-four chapters. I perceive Heaven and Earth; unite with me and make me an immortal. Ride the dragon carriage along the course of Heaven’s Way, ascending to where the Emperor of Heaven’s carriage stands.”

When the spell is complete, swallow the Nine Spirits’ wondrous Qi visualized earlier in nine portions, mixing it with the Qi of the Five Viscera until they shine with the colors of light reflected through crystal. Practiced in this way for nine years, the method can summon the essence of the Nine Qi of Azure Sprouts, causing the body to radiate light and enabling one to see through the Void. Once performed ten thousand times, the Dao is attained and the ability to fly is gained. The ancestors of seven generations are blessed as well, and all ascend to the Southern Palace.

The naturally formed Jade Characters of the Southern Three Qi, the Cinnabar Heaven:

“Southern Flame, Cavernous Float, Xinmao. Jade Eyes speak. Renchen-si characters.”

“Southern Blazing Flame, Cavernous Radiance, Jade Eyes” is the inner sound of Heyang Heaven. “Southern Blazing Flame” refers to a court of flowing fire in the south, where soaring flames illuminate the eight directions. “Cavernous Radiance” refers to the fervent energy of Dongyang Palace, surging outward. “Jade Eyes” means that after the body is purified and refined with the ointment of flowing fire, it gives off a jade-like radiance, bright as eyes. When people who cultivate the Dao first attain the Dao, they must go to the Court of Flowing Fire, where the Perfected One of the Southern Pole washes and refines them with fire ointment, removing the grime from their bodies so that they may accompany the Perfected Ones. “Shenshen” describes a great multitude.

“Brahma-form descends from emptiness, Gui-si. Ninefold Spirit advances ahead, Jia-wu, the sign of Chen” is the inner sound of Gonghua Heaven. “Brahma-form” was a title of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning during the Longhan era. In the Chiming era, he was called the Nameless Lord; when the Shanghuang era ushered in a new cycle, he was called the Primordial Beginning Elder. The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning took form through Brahma Qi and manifested in response to changes in the kalpas. He appeared in the form of a spirit and was not born from a womb, hence the name “Brahma-form.” “Descends from emptiness” means that the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning was born from the void. “Ninefold Spirit” refers to the Perfected One of Jiuhua, who dwells in the Southern Upper Palace and governs the souls of those who died beneath the Ninefold Netherworld because of karmic debts from past lives. “Advances ahead” means that the Perfected One of Jiuhua oversees the registers of life and calculates the merits of the souls of the dead from their previous lives. For those who had performed good deeds, the Perfected Ones of the Four Dippers would write and bestow on them talismans for prolonging life, enabling them to be released from the Ninefold Netherworld.

“Marsh @ Bodhi Terrace, Yi-wei. Green Silk Net of the Great Thousand, Bing-shen; the middle finger points to the text above” belongs to the inner sound of Zongpiao Heaven. “Marsh” refers to a mountain grotto in heaven. The mountain has many dragon grottoes, used to deliver the souls in the Ninefold Netherworld to liberation.

These eight characters express the inner sounds and meanings of “Piao Tian.” “Ze” refers to a mountain grotto in the celestial realm. On the mountain is a cave inhabited by many dragons, as well as a yellow chamber, also called the Hall of Jade Radiance. “Luo” is the inner name of the Dao Lord of Jade Dawn. He dwells in the Yellow Chamber and survives the great tribulations without perishing. After the Longhan tribulation, an ancient cosmic calamity in Daoist belief, he becomes even more radiant, at ease in the depths of the hidden realm.

“Pu” is the esoteric title of the Flying Celestial Perfected, of whom there are countless. “Tai” refers to the Jade Terrace, located south of Ze Mountain. “Lü Luo” refers to the Lady in the Moon, named Luo Ying. Her face is like jade, and she wears a green shawl over blue-green robes, hence the name “Lü Luo.” Riding the Brahma-practice Qi of the Great Luo Heaven, she moves through the gateways of the heavens’ and earth’s cycles, answering to their fixed ordinations until the great tribulation ends. Having received the transformations brought about by the sun and moon’s conjunction, she gathers upon the Jade Terrace.

“Great Thousand” refers to the levels of worlds. Master Lu says: when a thousand worlds are multiplied a thousandfold, they form a Small Thousand World; when the Small Thousand World is multiplied a thousandfold, it forms a Medium Thousand World; and when the Medium Thousand World is multiplied a thousandfold, it forms a Great Thousand World. Since this is the highest level among the thousandfold worlds, it is called the “Great Thousand.” Those who can chant the Dongzhang, verses from Daoist scriptures, may ride a feathered wheel chariot, ascend to the Yellow Chamber, roam upon the Jade Terrace, and behold the Great Thousand Worlds.

“Miao Mang Jiu Chou, Ding You. Shao Yao Yuan Zhan. Wu Xu Wu Wen.” This passage consists of esoteric expressions and sounds from the scripture, whose literal meaning is difficult to determine.

These eight characters belong to the inner language of the Heavenly Court of Huangjia (a secret language passed down in the celestial realm). “Miao” refers to the jade characters of the heavenly scripture, which sank during the era of Yan Kang, becoming veiled and unable to appear, faint and hard to see. “Mang” refers to the characters of the heavenly scripture becoming visible again after the fortune of Long Han began, vast and abundant.

When this cycle of the Dao comes, men and women alike can live for thirty-six thousand years. When the cycle reaches its limit, a tribulation follows. The nine kinds of Qi, which form all things between Heaven and Earth, each transform into a beast that harms evil people. Once the tribulation begins, these nine beasts are called the “Ghosts of the Nine Uglies.” The Northern Emperor, a supreme perfected being who oversees the registers of life and death, appointed the Nine Uglies to assist the Three Officials. After they had passed through eighty-one million tribulations, the Qi of Heaven and Earth converged. The Nine Uglies were then to serve the celestial realm, and so they were given the title “Envoys of the Nine Capitals.”

“Shao” is the inner name of the Thunder King of the Heavenly Court of Huangjia. The Thunder King is a deity among the demon kings who often tests whether cultivators are true of heart. The demon king may sing to disturb their minds; if a cultivator’s resolve remains firm, the Thunder King recommends him, allowing him to ascend directly to the Heavenly Court of Huangjia.

“Yuan zhan” is the inner taboo name of the Lords of the Southern and Northern Dippers, the star deities who govern human lifespan and life and death. When people perform good deeds and accumulate merit, the Southern Dipper records and reports them, helping them escape the calamities of the Three Realms and the sufferings of the Nine Hells. It also informs the demon king, who then dares not corrupt or harm them. When people do evil, the Three Officials report their offenses to the Northern Dipper. The Northern Dipper then informs the demon king, who destroys the evildoers’ souls and consigns them to the Nine Hells to serve through the long night.

There is a Golden Flower Mountain in the Heavenly Court of Huangjia. After cultivators complete their training and attain the Dao, they must go to Golden Flower Mountain to receive a talisman of the Great One (a revered Daoist deity). It enables them to subdue and overcome the demon king’s trials. Only then can they ride the Scenic Wheel chariot, traveling and feasting in the eight directions.

Regarding the “nine kinds of Qi,” the Scripture of the Orthodox Methods of the Three Heavens says: The Original Qi transforms into three kinds of Qi: Red Dong, White Zhang, and Green Hao. The Primordial Qi transforms into three kinds: Green Bing, Yellow Jing, and Azure Hun. The White Dun Mystery Qi transforms into three more: Purple Rong, Jade-Blue Yan, and Black Yan. These three groups of three are collectively called the “nine kinds of Qi.”

“Clouds above the Nine Capitals, jǐhài. Flying life rises of its own accord. gēngzǐ, no text.” Here, “Clouds above the Nine Capitals” corresponds to jǐhài, while “Flying life rises of its own accord” corresponds to gēngzǐ.

These eight characters are the inner sounds of the Hall of Radiance Heaven: secret sound-texts passed down in the celestial realm. “Clouds Above” is the personal name of the Flying Heaven Divine King. It inaugurates the Dragon Han kalpa, the name of a cosmic cycle of tribulation, and the Red Radiance era, another period in the cosmic cycle. It records the laws governing the natural order and establishes the foundations of Heaven and Earth.

“Nine Capitals” refers to nine tiers of high terraces formed after the Three Forms—the three basic patterns of Heaven and Earth—divided and differentiated. The terraces stand on Jade Capital Mountain and appear in the midst of the empty and mysterious. Flying Heaven immortals often scatter the fragrance of lilies there and spread five-colored clouds, as they look upon the Flying Heaven Perfected Ones. On the terraces is the Great Perfect Jade Gentleman. Three times each day he waves the Banner of Ten Severings; in response, the Lords of Heaven come three times to pay homage at the Mysterious Terrace and chant the Cavern Chapters, scriptures of the Cavern Mystery tradition.

“Flying Life” is the name of the god who brings renewal from the southern heights. If those who cultivate the Dao can recite the Cavern Chapters, all the heavens will offer congratulations. The god Flying Life will then open the path to immortality for them and send them the Qi of long life. Once they have refined and nurtured the Five Hun souls within, the Eight Radiances—divine presences or visions associated with the body and cultivation—can abide within them. “From” means “starting from,” and “Qian” refers to the Qian Grove. Their mind and spirit together raise the cultivator to the nine-tiered Mysterious Terrace. Beneath the Qian Grove, they follow the Dao, wearing a celestial text on their person and reciting the Cavern Chapters; in this way, they can ascend to pay court at the Palace of Mysterious Capital.

“Na, Yu, Yu, Fu; Xin-Chou. The Wheel of the Mo-Luo Dharma. Ren-Yin-Shen text.”

These eight characters are the inner sounds of the Heaven of Correct Tranquility. “Na” is the name of the Attendant Gentleman of the Heavenly King in celestial secret writing. He governs the Qi of the four seasons in the heavens and follows as his rule the framework of Brahmanic conduct and emptiness, bringing all things into proper order.

“These eight characters” are the celestial hidden language of Duanjing Heaven. “Na” is the inner name of the Heavenly King’s Attendant, who governs the Qi of the four seasons in Heaven and follows the laws of the Way of emptiness, keeping the divisions of Duanjing Heaven upright and stable. “Yu” is the name of the empty wheel at the Heavenly Gate, and also the name of the spirit child in the Yufen Dipper. Within Great Nonbeing, the spirit child sets the Yu wheel in motion, turning it ten times to summon and open the true Heavenly Gate. After the ten turns, the Great Sages of the ten directions ascend to pay court to the Jade Emperor, and all the gods gather together. The Yufen spirit child then chants the ritual greeting. As soon as Yufen chants, the great demons in Heaven are subdued. If practitioners understand the meaning of the four seasons’ Qi and the ten turns of the Heavenly Gate, they can enter the Wheel of Dharma’s gate, ride the Eight Radiances carriage, chant the ritual greeting in the Jade Clarity realm, and proceed to the Terrace of Purple Tenuity to pay court to the Emperor Lord.

“Hong chi wu jing, gui mao. Lan zi yun rong. Jia chen bai wen.”

These eight characters are the celestial hidden language of Gongqing Heaven. They indicate that practitioners ride the Eight Radiances carriage, chant the ritual greeting in the Jade Clarity realm, and proceed to the Terrace of Purple Tenuity to pay court to the Emperor Lord.

“Hong chi wu jing, gui mao. Lan zi yun rong. Jia chen bai wen.”

These eight characters are the celestial hidden language of Gongqing Heaven. “Hong” is the inner name of the divine Supervisor of Heaven. “Chi” is the name of Dragon Abyss, where many dragons dwell. They are commanded by the Golden Infant, who transports the essence of the Eastern Well to infuse the Heavenly Perfected. “Hua” refers to the essence of Yellow Radiance within the sun. It flows into the fluid of the Eastern Well without end. “Wu jing” is the inner taboo name of the Flying Heaven Divine King. He travels throughout the Great Luo Heaven, emitting light without color to save practitioners of the Way.

“Lan zi” is the name of the gate of the Three Realms. When people recite this name, the Divine King opens the Palace of Long Night and rescues the souls in the Ninefold Darkness, enabling them to pass through the gate of the Three Realms. “Yun rong” is the name of a deity who attends the Mysterious Harmony Jade Maiden. Once people have been saved by passing through the gate of the Three Realms, Yun Rong uses the Qi of Vermilion Spirit to guide their bodies and the fluids of Great Harmony to nourish their spirits and souls. Thus they ascend to the Hall of Blessings and Virtue, where they are preserved for a long time, beyond the suffering of calamities and the exhaustion of their allotted fate.

Fulang Kuoyi, Jisi, Shen Ying zi gong, Bingwu du san—these are all secret words of the celestial realm. Practitioners use the qi of Vermilion Numen to guide the body, then nourish the spirit with the fluids of Great Harmony, allowing body and mind to ascend to a state of blessing and virtue and endure through the long cycles of tribulation.

These eight words belong to the inner sounds of the Extreme Jade Heaven—the sacred syllables secretly transmitted in the celestial realm. “Fulang” is another name for the Jade Capital’s Dark Terrace in the heavens. The Perfected of Western Numen often recite the Dongzhang, roaming through that realm. “Kuoyi” is the inner name of the Divine Lord of Heaven. Born together with the Primordial Beginning, the Divine Lord is the pattern and principle of dark qi and teaches those who cultivate for immortality. “Shen Ying” is the numinous youth of the Purple Tenuity Palace, who governs the corpses of those who have passed through deliverance and left mortal form. If one can hear the Divine Thread sing the chapter “Immeasurable,” one may recover one’s form in the Chamber of Three Refinings, receive the qi of Nature, and enjoy boundless life. If practitioners can grasp the sounds and meanings of these eight words, the Divine Lord will open for them the gates of Long Night and Rebirth, enabling them to ascend the Jade Capital Terrace.

After reciting, click the teeth together three times, then close the eyes and visualize the three wondrous numinous qi and red radiance arriving from the southern Limitless Dark Void. After a short while, softly recite the invocation to the Lord Yuchen.

Invocation to the Lord Yuchen, Immeasurable Sound of the Eight Southern Heavens:

The gentle sun shines forth in splendor; its fiery radiance illuminates a face refined like jade in the alchemical furnace. The Brahma sound in the void is faint and far-reaching; clear and bright, it reveals wondrous virtue. The Ninefold Radiance breaks the registers of sins in the netherworld, while the celestial limits of the four directions send down the fluids that prolong life. In the Yellow Chamber, dawn’s light remains forever, stretching on without end so that radiance may endure.

The Moon Consort rises in serene elegance, freeing the ten thousand realms from the cycles of tribulation. Jade books appear and vanish within the Chaos Cavern; in the age of the Dragon Han, their radiance was pure and crystalline. Divine script governs the Six Heavens, inspecting and subduing the host of demons. The trials of evil spirits cannot disturb me; my name is already entered in the registers of the Shangqing Immortals.

I transcend the hardships of the Five Sufferings and roam freely on the wondrous peak of the Dark Mystery. My spirit-consciousness ascends, opening a vast process of transformation, and discerning clearly the layered Nine Clouds. I refine and nourish my soul in the south, turn the Flower Canopy, and roam through the Qian Forest. Light mists encircle the framework of the void; after ten cycles of transformation, I return to the Celestial Gate.

All the demons come to submit, and the sights of the eight directions turn toward Ziwei, the Celestial Emperor’s abode. The waters of Dragon Abyss flow into the Eastern Well constellation, while Yellow Blossoms nourish my true nature.

The Great Luo Heaven, the Daoist highest heaven, emits light without color, silently liberating countless beings. The Qi of Vermilion Spirit joins with the primal Qi at its utmost, and the Qi of Great Harmony rises into the Hall of Blessing.

The Dark Terrace reflects the realm of Yuxiao. I recite and uphold the Dongxuan scriptures, following the numinous Qi of the west. The Spirit Lord proclaims the subtle laws, enabling people to return to the childlike state of purity and accord with nature.

When the prayers are complete, visualize the three wondrous Qi from before transforming into three layers of crimson clouds, closely encircling the body.

Visualize the Vermilion Bird and phoenix flying before and behind you, while silently reciting the secret incantation:

The three Qi circle and turn; the numinous phoenix flies here. The eight characters of jade sound shine with radiance upon Ziwei.

On an auspicious day, as the Daoist community celebrates greatly, the three layers of crimson clouds upon my body open the grotto-palace. I nourish myself with red cinnabar and sweet malt, raise my head, and absorb the wondrous radiance.

Qi of water and fire arise within my body; I wear a crimson sash and feathered robe. I ascend through the air, stepping upon the ladder of phoenixes.

I travel through the eight heavens, accompanied by seven generations of ancestors.

When the incantation is complete, guide the three wondrous Qi from before into the body and swallow them in three portions. Visualize them merging with the Qi of the Five Viscera, illuminating the five organs as though with sunlight. Practiced in this way for three years, this cultivation perfects the essence of red cinnabar and the three Qi, restoring and transforming an aged appearance so it will not decay through countless kalpas. The seven generations of ancestors ascend, are reborn in the Hall of Blessing, leave behind their mortal bodies to become immortals, and at once receive new life.

The naturally formed jade characters of the Seven Qi of the Western Plain Heaven:

Dao-li chan-you, ding-wei. Po-ni jiu-tong. Wu-shen shen-wen.

“Daoli” is the name of the Southern Boundless World, also known as “Chanli.” This realm contains the Dongyang Palace and the Court of Flowing Fire. The numinous script was first refined by fire in the Court of Flowing Fire, after which it became radiant and pure. The land of Daoli was therefore renamed the Hall of Blessed Virtue. Suffering souls can be delivered and enter the Dongyang Palace.

“You” is the title of the Good-Life Lord of the Southern Upper Realm. “Poni” is the numinous youth in the Pool of Fire Refinement. “Jiutong” is the demon spirit of the Daoli World, who often obstructs people’s path to life. If someone knows and recites the Good-Life Lord’s title, suffering souls can be delivered and enter the Dongyang Palace, where they undergo refinement in the Pool of Fire. They are then reborn in the Land of Blessed Virtue, and the demon spirit submits as well. When the eight characters are recited aloud, the Boundless Numinous Officials of the Daoli World will protect the person and guide them directly to the Southern Palace. Immortals will welcome them and raise them into the Heaven of the Three Qi.

“Wansou Dixi, Jiyou. Hall of Great Mystery. Gengxu We Wen.”

These eight characters are the inner sound of the Emperor Cliff Heaven: a heavenly script transmitted in secret. “Wansou” is the inner name of the Emperor of the Emperor Cliff Heaven. He oversees the opening and deliverance of the scriptural teachings of the Great Wilderness, making the meaning of these eight characters clear. When the Great Dao is revealed above the Great Luo Heaven, clarity and purity appear throughout heaven and earth.

“Dixi” is the title of a Flying Celestial Perfected One above the Realm of Form. The Realm of Form is one of the levels of heaven described in Daoism. Dixi rides a carriage of auspicious clouds and drives a nine-colored dragon, roaming above the Realm of Form and entering and leaving the Jade Clarity. He sweeps away impure Qi and opens the path of deliverance for those with deep roots of goodness.

The “Hall of Great Mystery” is the Hall of Transformation and Birth. There, the wondrous transformations of the empty and open coalesce into natural patterns. Its realm is broad and unimpeded, and it can open the path of deliverance for all beings. If practitioners understand and recite these eight characters, the Flying Celestial Perfected One will descend in a carriage of auspicious clouds and carry them up to the Hall of Transformation and Birth.

“Liú Luó Fàn Méng, Xīnhài. Jǐng Wèi Xiāo Yú. Rénzǐ sì zhǐ shàngwén”—these eight characters are the inner sounds of the Heaven of Ultimate Wind, the secret language of the celestial realm.

“Liú” is the personal name of the emperor of the Heaven of Ultimate Wind. He dwells above the Purple Empyrean and roams in contemplation of the mountain of Jade Capital. “Luó” is the personal name of the Moon Maiden, who oversees the rites of the Heavenly King’s banquets and travels. Her radiance shines over the Heaven of Ultimate Wind, illuminating the truth of the Nine Profundities. “Fàn” is the name of a perfected being who flies through the heavens and oversees the opening of the gates of the Nine Heavens. “Méng” is the divine being of Primordial Beginning, who safeguards the foundations of the Heaven of Ultimate Wind. “Jǐng” is Emperor Jing, the Supreme Perfected One of the Four Poles; “Wèi” is Wei Xiu, an immortal of the Radiant Empyrean. Together they govern the Terrace of Jade Capital, inspecting and assessing the souls in the Long Night and opening a path of deliverance for souls rooted in goodness. “Xiāo” is Xiao Ren, the palace of the Primordial Lady of White Plainness; “Yú” is the end of Xiao Ren, a place where guests gather. If people can recite the “Cavern Chapter” regularly, they can ride the nine-colored clouds, ascend to Emperor Jing’s capital terrace, survey the Long Night, and deliver souls rooted in goodness.

“Yì Miǎo Wú Jì, Guǐ, Wǎn Shǒu Shǎo Dū. Jiǎyín yǒu wén”—these eight characters are the inner sounds of the Heaven of Filial Radiance.

“Yì Miǎo” is the personal name of the Heavenly King, the first emperor of the Heaven of Filial Radiance. “Wú” means emptiness; “Jì” means stillness. The “court of emptiness and stillness” is a realm that is empty and silent. The scripture says that this Heavenly King came into the world during the Dragon-Han era and appeared during the Red Brightness era. He dwells in emptiness and abides in the court of stillness. “Wǎn Shǒu” is the inner title of the Highest Lord of the Dao. Riding an eightfold jade carriage and borne by three-colored flying clouds, he opens the mysteries of Primordial Beginning and proclaims the Great Law to deliver people. “Shǎo Dū” is the name of the numinous youth within the sun. He scatters the sun’s essence to infuse those cultivating the Dao, then sends down a shower of radiance to brush away the dust from those who study and practice. Knowing how to pronounce these eight characters can summon the Heavenly King, riding a flying cloud chariot and borne by a three-colored carriage, to descend and deliver people beyond the Three Realms into the court of stillness.

“Ā Làn Yù Zhú, Yǐmǎo Huá Mò Yán Yóu. Bǐngchén xū wén.”

“These eight characters” are the inner sounds of Weng Chongtian, one of the celestial titles. “A Lan” is the taboo name of Emperor Weng Chongtian. The Celestial Emperor rides the Wheel of Radiant Heaven, ascends a nine-tiered platform, dwells atop a jade tower, and chants the Cavern Chapters, Daoist liturgical texts, to subdue the demon kings.

“Yu” is the inner sound of Yu Heaven. “A Lan” remains the taboo name of Emperor Weng Chongtian. The Celestial Emperor rides the Wheel of Radiant Heaven, ascends the nine-tiered platform, dwells atop the jade tower, and chants the Cavern Chapters to subdue the demon kings. “Yu” is also the secret name of the demon king in Silent Yu Heaven. “Zhu” refers to the Realm of Desire: this demon king is its ruler and often chants songs of emptiness above the Realm of Desire. “Hua” refers to the radiance of the Realm of Form. “Han” refers to the desert wastes of the Realm of Axes, so remote that they cannot be found. “Yan” is the courtyard that binds ghosts and spirits, while “You” is the barrier that confines them.

When the Celestial King chants chapters of immeasurable scope, the celestial demons immediately submit at the sound of his voice, and the assembled ghosts ask to enter the confinement, bowing down to be restrained. Those who uphold this scripture bring peace and well-being to their ancestors through nine generations. Those who cultivate through it can be reborn, even if only their ashes and bones remain.

“Nine Openings, Self-Evident” is the opening title of the “An’a Chapter” from the year Ding-Si. It is the Hai script of the year Wu-Wu.

“These eight characters” are the inner sounds of Jiangyou Heaven. “Nine openings” refers to the beginning of the great unfolding, when Heaven and Earth had not yet separated and the three Qi—the primordial energies that constitute all things in Heaven and Earth—circulated and divided into nine parts. Once the nine degrees had become clear, nine positions were arranged, and Yin-Yang and the myriad things came into being. “Natural” means clear and manifest. “A Qiu” is the taboo name of Emperor Jiangyou Heaven. The Celestial Emperor rides a nine-colored dragon and travels in a threefold plain carriage, ascends the ridge of Dragon Mountain, and roams among the Nine Mysteries, the remote celestial realms described in Daoist teaching.

“Na Xie” is the secret name of a flying celestial being. He flies through the Three Realms, surveys the long night, and rescues the souls of the virtuous. Those who understand the sounds of these eight characters will be assessed and transformed by the Celestial King, who will admit them among the host of flying celestial beings. Even withered bones can take on the youthful appearance of a child.

“Immeasurable Canopy” is the Fuluo-he divine script of the year Ji-Wei, and the Zi script of the year Geng-Shen.

The eight characters “Wuliang Duren” (“Limitless Deliverance”) are the inner sounds of Ruan Letian, one of the Eight Heavens. “Wuliang” refers to the primordial deity of the immeasurable great sages in the celestial realm, who commands the flying celestial beings. These beings are promoted according to their rank and the registers that record their names. “Fu” is the inner name of the Perfected Person of Renewal, who is responsible for checking the registers in the long night and tracing the roots of good and evil. “Gai” is the name of the Blessed Hall in the Mysterious Center. “Fu” refers to souls in the dark night; after receiving the Perfected Person’s deliverance, they are called “Fu.” These souls return in accordance with the turning of the times and ascend to the Blessed Hall. “Luo” refers to the Great Luo Heaven. The Great Luo Heaven opens the vast cosmos and summons souls approved for renewal, guiding them to the Great Luo Heaven and removing their names from the registers of the dead kept by the Three Offices, the divine authorities governing the affairs of Heaven, Earth, and Water. “He” means shared celebration. “Shen” refers to the Lord of the Spirits, the chancellor of the Great Luo Heaven. Anyone who can understand the inner sounds of these eight characters can share in the Lord of the Spirits’ celebration, receive deliverance, and become a soul approved for renewal. Hence the phrase “He Shen” means “sharing in the divine.”

“Yudan Chang Sang, Xinyou; Baikong Duxian, Renrong Sizhi Zhongwen.”

These eight characters are the inner sounds of Tanshi Heaven. “Yudan” is the name of the Jade Capital of Tanshi Heaven. “Chang Sang” refers to the celestial Qian Forest, also called the Mulberry Forest, which shelters the Eastern Florescence Palace. On its leaves are great cavernous writings, inscribed with jade characters in purple script, whose radiance shines upon the Highest Clarity. Beneath the trees stands the Fusang tree, while above it spreads the luxuriant Qian Forest. Jade chickens call among the treetops, and azure mists reflect the emerald peaks. Divine winds stir the fragrant plants and trees, setting in motion the many sounds of the Mulberry Forest. When the divine wind blows, the cavernous writings sound forth; hence the name “Baikong.”

“Duxian” refers to the flying celestial beings. They often ascend the Jade Terrace at cockcrow to gather cloud buds from the five directions, then lift their heads and absorb the radiance of the sun, moon, and stars. They also consult the registers of life and death for those seeking immortality, and deliver souls from the Ninefold Darkness, enabling them to ascend through the Gate of the Dharma Wheel.

After completing the recitation, knock your teeth together seven times. Close your eyes and visualize the Seven Numinous Subtle Qi (seven kinds of numinous, subtle energy) transforming into white radiance and coming to your side from the boundless, mysterious void in the west. After a short while, softly recite the prayer to Lord Yuchen.

The incantation of Lord Yuchen, the immeasurable voice of the Western Eight Heavens, says:

The Cave Sun shines upon the palaces among the clouds. The sovereign spirit who saves and cherishes life descends. The numinous child undergoes the refinement of fire; the Hall of Blessings guides all beings across the ford between life and death. In the Great Vastness, the light of the Dao shines forth, and perfected beings ride the rainbow clouds in flight. The Most High bestows the primal creative power of Heaven and Earth, cleansing defilement and driving away demonic Qi. I ask to be guided aboard the jade-green chariot and raised through the subtle gate. Let me radiate in the vast, boundless immortal realm, illuminating the perfected beings of the Nine Mysteries. The power of creation turns open the darkened passes, and light shines once more in hidden places.

Perfected beings ride the rainbow clouds in flight. The Most High bestows the power of creation, cleansing defilement and driving away demonic forces. I ask to be guided aboard the jade-green chariot and raised through the subtle gate. Let me radiate in the vast, boundless immortal realm, illuminating the perfected beings of the Nine Mysteries. The power of creation turns open the darkened passes, reviving the numinous roots in the depths.

The realm of Jinghuang is beautiful, its splendor unfolding in tier upon tier; there, the souls of immortals are examined and guided beyond. Xiao Ren and Bai Yuanzi together serve as guests of the ranked Emperor Lords. The King in the Central Heaven of the First Sovereign dwells in a courtyard of silent emptiness. Lord Yuchen opens the vast rites, spreading blessings and good fortune, and cleanses me of worldly dust. In the heavenly tower, the Cave scriptures are sung, subduing the demons and restraining ghost forms. The patriarch, manifesting as the Three Origins, proclaims the nine methods of deliverance one by one. A-Qiu speeds along in a white chariot; even matters of evil accord with their karmic conditions. The Great Sage Miro brings people back to life and raises them to the banquet of blessings. Transcending transformation, they depart when the time comes, their names erased from the registers of the dead, forever at peace and in joy. The Jade Palace towers high, the immortal realm stands in solemn splendor, and radiant light rises. Cloud sprouts bow to the Three Lights—the sun, moon, and stars—granting people a lifespan of millions upon millions of years.

After reciting the prayer, continue visualizing the Seven Numinous Subtle Qi from before, along with seven layers of white clouds covering your whole body.

The secret incantation recited as the White Tiger and Lion guide you on either side says:

The Seven Qi gather into the Metal Spirit; the divine lords of the Eight Heavens descend. The White Tiger drives the chariot, and the Lion bears up the shafts. The Seven Qi coil and flow around me, refining my body and making me an immortal. My body shines with golden light, illuminating the white clouds. Within and without, my body is transformed, and I ascend through the Gate of Dongxuan. May my seven generations of ancestors escape the shadowy night, and may the departed souls of the Nine Hells be released. May those subject to the Three Destinies and Five Sufferings sever the roots of evil karma and join together in joyful celebration at the assembly of blessings, receiving good fortune of their own accord. Through countless kalpas, they will still find deliverance, enduring through the ages as time unfolds.

After reciting the incantation, draw in the seven wondrous breaths described earlier and swallow them in seven separate portions, so that they merge with the Qi of the Five Viscera. The Five Viscera will then be clear and bright, like crystals illuminated by moonlight, and the roots of the five afflictions will be cut off for good. Through this practice, cultivators share in blessings and receive good fortune bestowed by Nature. They will be delivered throughout countless kalpas and endure in harmony with the course of Heaven.

After reciting the incantation, draw in the seven wondrous breaths again and swallow them in seven separate portions, so that they merge with the Five Viscera and make their color bright and clear, as if illuminated by moonlight. Practicing in this way for seven years enables one to obtain the essence of the Seven Qi of Great Simplicity—the seven primordial energies contained in Great Simplicity. This prolongs life and keeps one in the human world; through ten thousand kalpas, one retains a childlike appearance. One’s blessings will also extend to seven generations of ancestors, enabling them to ascend to the Southern Palace, an abode of immortals. One will be reborn, leaving the womb renewed, and become an immortal in every lifetime.

The Jade Characters of Natural Mystery: Five Qi of the North

“Juewu ziyi, Guihai. Jiuri daogan. Haiwen.”

These eight characters are the inner sounds of Heaven of Cloudy Expanse, secret sounds and characters transmitted from the celestial realm. Juewu was a flying celestial deity in the age of Longhan. When the primordial breath at the beginning of creation still lay in formless chaos, Juewu appeared at the appointed moment and stood motionless. Once Heaven of Cloudy Expanse had been established, Juewu guarded it against the kalpa that would never end. “Yu” is the inner name of the King of Heaven of Cloudy Expanse. “Nine” refers to the King of Yu riding an elephant-drawn chariot, traveling through the gates of the Nine Mysteries, and setting nine celestial workings in motion to meet the moment when a kalpa arrives. “Sun” refers to the Sun Child in Heaven. “Guide” means to lead and harmonize the primordial energy. When the course of Heaven is nearing its end, the Sun Child stills its radiance to deliver those who cultivate the Way. It pours the essence of the Water Mother into them and draws in the breath of Great Harmony, refining the Five Spirits within the body and bringing them into the Vermilion Palace, the chamber of spirits within the body. This is why the phrase is called “guiding the trunk.”

The Earth Mother covers the east; her form embraces the heights of Mystery. Characters of Jiazi and Xu.

These eight characters are the inner sounds of Heaven of Primordial Cavern, secret sounds and characters transmitted from the celestial realm. The Earth Mother covers the east and, through her form, embraces the mysterious realm above. The phrase “characters of Jiazi and Xu” identifies the talismanic characters marked by this passage.

“The Earth Mother covers the east; her form embraces the heights of Mystery. Characters of Jiazi and Xu.” [The phrase is written again below.]

These eight characters are celestial esoteric words from the Heaven of Primordial Caverns. “Mother Kun” is the marquis of the capital of Great Yin and the mother of the Nine Spirits. She governs the abyss beneath Fusang and Yang Valley in the Eastern Sea. She regularly oversees the turning of the earth, sets Primordial Qi (the original vital energy of Heaven and Earth) in motion, and corresponds with the Heavenly Pass. When the Heavenly Pass turns and the earth’s axis shakes, the celestial circuit completes one revolution, and the sea rises and surges three thousand three hundred times. When the energies of Heaven and Earth meet, the Nine Seas grow dark and obscure; once the waters rise, they spread across the sky.

“East” refers to the place where the Eastern Sea receives the appointed periods of the celestial realm and governs their limits and the sources of rivers. “Treading” is a water deity who governs Mount Kunlun, fills and fortifies the sea, and blocks the Eastern Well. This prevents the earth’s motion from sinking and thus sustains the enduring stability of Heaven and Earth. “Taking form” refers to the time when calamities converge: Mother Kun appears above the Eastern River, summons the Bird Mother, and rides a phoenix chariot to welcome those who study the Way of immortality and escort them to Mount Kunlun. The Bird Mother is the deity who governs the tides and seasons of the waters. “Ascending” means that Mother Kun goes to court before the Emperor Lord, reports the appointed periods of the cycles of calamity and fortune, saves and guides those who study the Way of immortality, and registers their names in the Palace of the Mysterious Capital.

“Above” also means that Mother Kun summons the Bird Mother, rides a phoenix chariot to welcome those who study the Way of immortality, and escorts them to Mount Kunlun. The Bird Mother is the deity who governs the tides and seasons of the waters. “Ascending” means that Mother Kun goes to court before the Emperor Lord, reports the appointed periods of the cycles of calamity and fortune, saves and guides those who study the Way of immortality, and registers their names in the Palace of the Mysterious Capital.

“Tuoluo Yumiao; the Qi of Yichou and the mist of Bingyin unite. Four fingers in the center of Bingyin.”

These eight characters are celestial esoteric words from the Heaven of Wondrous Accomplishment. “Tuo” is the inner name of the Celestial Emperor, who was born together with Wondrous Accomplishment on the Ridge of Cloudy Valleys. “Luo” is the name for the moon at its first appearance. Tuo dwells above the Cloud Ridge, holding the moon in his arms and making it shine. “Yu” is the divine king of the Heaven of Wondrous Accomplishment, named Yusheng, who commands the flying celestial spirits of the ten directions. “Miao” is a feathered guardian deity of the celestial realm, called the Divine King. He constantly protects the Three Realms, examines the registers of human life and death, and has the demon kings protect and save those who have attained the Way.

“Miao” means lofty, distant, and profound. After being saved, people proceed to the Feathered Guard to receive Fulu (talismans and registers), then ascend into the celestial realm and travel far through the Cloud Palace. “Qi” means cloud vapor, and “uniting” means matching the appearance of the celestial realm. After entering the Feathered Guard, those who have been saved condense cloud vapor into garments and fly up to the Vermilion Palace. There they receive blessings in Heaven; at last they match the appearance of the various heavens and continue their ascent.

The eight characters “Feitian Dachou, Dingmao Zongjian Shangtian. Wuchen Ziwen” are the inner sounds of Heaven (the secret language of the celestial realm). “Feitian” refers to the Divine King of Flying Heaven. In Heaven, the Qi of flying mystery condenses into form and ascends upward.

In the celestial realm, the Qi of flying mystery condenses into the empty cavern scripture. The Divine Kings of the Ten Directions recite this scripture in the lofty sky to harmonize the Qi of nature and guide those who cultivate the Dao. “Da” refers to the Chief Registrar who governs the Three Realms and controls the registers of life and death. “Chou” refers to Bo, the demon king of the Three Realms who serves at Da Chou’s command. If cultivators can recognize this celestial sound, the demon king will protect their true bodies and enable them to ascend to the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing). Da Chou is the official who commands all the forces of Flying Heaven. He regularly governs the Qi of the Eight Assemblies, sets the workings of Heaven and Earth in motion, and oversees the officials in the Long Night, opening a path of salvation for the souls of the Nine Netherworlds. When cultivators know the inner sounds of the celestial realm, the heavenly demons will recount their merits and practices, and Da Chou will record them in the registers of immortals, enabling them to ascend to the celestial realm.

The eight characters “Shatuo Jie’liang, Jisi Longhan Yingxian. Gengwu Chouwen” are the inner sounds of Constantly Merging Heaven (the secret language of the celestial realm). “Sha” refers to the Palace of Shalan in Heaven. This palace is an auxiliary residence of Ziwei, located in Jade Clarity (Yuqing).

These eight characters are the inner sounds of “Changrong Heaven,” the secret sound-text transmitted in the celestial realm. “Sha” refers to the Heavenly Shalan Palace, an auxiliary hall of the Ziwei Palace, situated above Jade Clarity and within Purple Empyrean. “Tuo” refers to Tuoqiu. Tuoqiu is home to tens of thousands of beings who have just attained the Dao and received transformation. Because their merit is not yet complete, they are temporarily settled there. Whenever one cosmic cycle gives way to another, the merit of the beings in Tuoqiu is assessed. Those whose merit meets the required standard may ascend to the Palace of Zhuling, where they enjoy blessings and become immortals.

“Longhan” is the name of the first cosmic cycle. At that time, the Great Dao was pure and simple, and its teachings spread naturally, without being readily mixed with other changes. “Ying” refers to the flying celestial guests of the Longhan period. They often transformed the souls of the dead in the Ninefold Darkness, the depths of the underworld, enabling them to ascend to the Orchid Palace. “Xian” refers to the immortal youths of the Southern Palace. After a cultivator attains the Dao, the youths of Xian refine and transform the cultivator’s body above Zhuling.

“Biluofuli, Xinwei Kongge Baozhen. Renshen Yinwen.”

These eight characters are the inner sounds of “Yulong Heaven.” In Yulong Heaven, the qi of blue clouds is constantly arising. “Luo” is the title of a flying Celestial King. Riding a chariot of blue clouds, he roams through Yulong Heaven and three times each day leads the assembled sages of Heaven to pay court at the Palace of Seven Treasures. “Fuli” is the Celestial King’s inner name. When the sages pay court, the king celebrates the occasion. “Kong” is the title of the attendant who announces the morning in Heaven. “Ge” refers to the melody of the Dongzhang. When the attendant gives a long call, numinous winds sound in response, and their music transforms into the Dongzhang; hence the name “Kongge.”

“Baozhen” means that cultivators who understand the meaning and sound of these eight characters can ascend to the Southern Palace and become guests of the flying Celestial Gods. They can also preserve themselves and pass through endless cosmic cycles, cherishing these naturally formed scriptures. Hence the name “Baozhen,” or “Preserving the Treasure.”

“Eyi wupin, Guiyou dongmiao zizhen” are the eight characters of the inner sound of Brahma Measure Heaven, a secret celestial script. Eyi is the inner name of the King of Brahma Measure Heaven. According to tradition, during the Longhan era, one of the ancient Daoist cosmic cycles, he settled all karmic ties, transcended the Three Realms, and ascended to the realm of the Great Void. There he received the register of the Nine Immortals and the title of Great Sage. In the Chiming era, the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning appointed him King of Brahma Measure Heaven.

“Wu” refers to the Perfected One of Great Nonbeing. He received the king’s talismanic command to deliver the souls of the dead from the Long Night and weigh their sins and merits, helping them understand the grievances they had incurred in past lives. Once these old resentments were resolved, the souls entered the Hall of Wondrous Transformation. “Zi” means “together with,” and “zhen” refers to the Celestial Perfected. In other words, the Perfected One of Great Nonbeing delivers the souls of the Ninefold Darkness—the depths of the netherworld—discerns their destinies and harmful entanglements from past lives, and sends them all into the Hall of Wondrous Transformation. There they join the Flying Celestials, the perfected immortals of the heavens, and return to the realm of the True.

“Yuanfan huimo, Yihai youji duren” are the eight characters of the inner sound of Jiayi Heaven. Primordial Brahma is the Qi of the wind and waters of the Great Brahma of Primordial Beginning, the source of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning. It bears aloft and clarifies the vast, open essence: suspended high, it flows without falling. “Vast and remote” describes its immense reach and unobstructed passage. Though it exists, it seems formless; it is too subtle to name and too mysterious to fathom. Profound and still, it cannot be perceived by the ears or eyes, yet it contains truth and essence and can, unseen, deliver beings in the heavens and the human world.

After reciting, click the teeth five times, close the eyes, and visualize the wondrous Qi of the Five Spirits transforming into purple crystal-colored rosy clouds that come from the northern reaches of the Limitless, Mysterious Void. After a short while, softly recite the benediction of Lord Yuchen, a revered Daoist deity.

Benediction of Lord Yuchen, the Jade Morning Lord, in the Yuanliang Tone of the Eight Northern Heavens:

Opening the deliverance of the supreme divine beings,

mysterious Qi gathers amid the celestial firmament;

within the Yang Blossoms lies the essence of the True One,

and the breath of Great Harmony gives birth to wondrous wisdom.

The Nine Spirits guard the Western Kunlun. The workings of Heaven pause at the meeting point of the pivot. The phoenix carriage raises its feathered wheels and crosses the ford through this great calamity.

Clouds encircle the perfect, radiant celestial realm, where the Heavenly Lord Who Nurtures Life resides. In the Feathered Forest Palace, the Lord receives a talismanic mandate; exquisite numinous clouds shine upon his robe.

Mystical writings ascend through the air, receiving and guiding all beings so they may transcend and rise. Heaven governs the stars of the eight directions and opens the path to deliver the departed souls of the Ninefold Darkness.

The Orchid Palace connects to the Celestial Palace of Purple Tenuity. Following the laws of Heaven, it ascends to Vermilion Mound. In the Southern Palace is a wondrous youth, who refines my form with the light of jade radiance.

Azure clouds drift around the green carriage. The assembled immortals offer congratulations and attend upon the Supreme One. A numinous wind passes, sounding with an ethereal resonance and granting the enjoyment of boundless longevity.

The Nine Immortals bestow the registers of destiny, dissolving and dispersing the roots of karma from former lives. The guiding order rises into the empty Brahma realm, opening and freeing all beings, who return to the state beyond names.

The Qi of the Great Confluence governs all the bones; vapor swirls and joins with the purple clouds. Blessings extend to descendants seven generations hence, while calamities are cut off at their three roots.

Obstacles are released, and the bonds of the mundane world left behind. I ride alongside carefree immortal companions, wandering together. In an instant, I ascend the Dragon Terrace and bow before the Jade Emperor.

When the prayer is complete, visualize the Five Spirits’ wondrous Qi and the five layers of mysterious clouds from before, covering and filling the whole body.

Next, visualize the flying tortoise’s feathered canopy, lush and dense, shielding you from before and behind. Then silently recite the secret incantation:

The mysterious Heaven turns in its course; its radiance streams toward Highest Clarity. The realm of Great Being opens into transformation, and the eight characters shine forth.

Flying Mystery clears the void; Cavernous Yin arises naturally. The Five Qi flow on, intertwining and pouring into my body.

Wear the northern crown and sash; receive the refinement of Cavernous Numen. The kidney palace becomes an immortal realm, pure and radiant within and without.

Fly through the Three Realms and feast amid the Purple Court. Ancestors of seven generations celebrate together, rejoicing through distant kalpas.

Within the Seven Treasure Grove, be reborn and renewed. Leave the long darkness behind and have your name entered in the Southern Palace.

Yellow Registers, white and shining.

Fly through the Three Realms and feast amid the Purple Court. Ancestors of seven generations celebrate together, rejoicing through distant kalpas.

With the Yellow Registers and white tablets in hand, attain immortality in every generation.

This heavenly sound can ward off, dispel, transform, and bring to completion anything whatsoever. It is the sound of natural, uncontrived truth. Reciting it can summon the flying immortals to descend and behold it, the Supreme Lord to answer in song from afar, the myriad gods to come and pay homage, and the spirits of the Three Realms to attend the divine carriage. Demons bow their heads and submit; ghosts, monsters, and spirits vanish of their own accord. The sound of tinkling jade then resounds. (This is the You character, a symbol or mark in the scripture.)

The ten directions fall into solemn stillness and purity; rivers and seas grow silent; mountains draw in their mists; all spirits are awed into submission, and the assembled immortals are summoned to come. There is no turbid or defiling Qi in heaven, and no demonic or baleful dust in the world below. Hidden wisdom becomes penetrating and clear, vast beyond bounds and mysteriously profound upon profound. (This is the Hai character, a symbol or mark in the scripture.)

The Mysterious Master said: The heavenly sound of the middle section has four immeasurable powers of divine might: warding off, dispelling, transforming, and bringing to completion. Those who recite it can receive sixteen auspicious signs.

The foregoing is the main text, a preface following the “Hidden Words of the Great Brahma.”

Cheng Xuanying’s commentary: Here the text explains that the inner sounds of the heavens possess the power to penetrate the hidden depths and illuminate wisdom. “Hidden” means profound and unfathomable; “wisdom” means penetrating insight and illumination without limit. Because wisdom can see into emptiness and stillness, it is called “hidden wisdom.” What is lofty and limitless is called “penetrating”; radiance that shines above the Three Pure Ones is called “penetrating clarity.” “Penetrating” means empty stillness, and “clarity” means purity. What is vast beyond bounds is called “great expanse.” Within that expanse there is only true emptiness; within true emptiness lies subtle refinement, and within it is a truth that can be trusted and that gives rise to the true sages. It is neither being nor nonbeing, but abides eternally, clear and still, and so subtle that it cannot be measured. Its principle cannot be traced to its roots or examined in detail. Within the mysterious there is yet a deeper mystery; this is why it is called “the great expanse, mysterious upon mysterious.”

Correct Sounds of the Hidden Words of the Great Brahma

The Eight Heavens of the East

Vast generation, lofty response; awakening source, penetrating emptiness. Responding to the source, the Nine Truths; transformation joins and the primal design begins. The patterned spirit sets its workings in motion; the ancestral model of the primal capital. Responses and changes gathered into one; awe-inspiring summons takes form of itself. Green peaks shift their aspect; the imperial Way contains radiance. The heavenly forest shines with authority; Qi and essence nurture the soul. Blending and spreading, bearing and standing; rounded blossoms hidden in radiance. The appointed great spirit takes form; the vast framework proclaims peace.

The Eight Heavens of the South

In the south, the Qi of Zhangyan flows freely and broadly, spreading firmly and purifying the source. Mysterious radiance appears in the void, while the Qi of Longyang dances across the vault of heaven. Subtle, upright Qi illuminates the skies; deep and distant Qi gathers in harmony. The Mysterious Pass, the aperture through which inner and outer realms communicate and the movement of Qi is harmonized during cultivation, is joined by three bonds, and the Qi of the Great Brahmā rises into the air. Hidden awareness gradually flourishes, and heavenly kinship displays auspicious celebration. The spirit portals, entrances and exits for divine beings, interweave with one another, as the true primordial essence spreads through Jing and Qi. In purity, one holds fast to clear illumination, circling, joining, and ascending. The myriad spirits are guided to the cloud banquet, and numinous responses rise into the heavens.

In the west, a sign appears in the strength-giving marsh; Yin Qi contains an image of solitary grandeur. The coursing Qi returns to deep, pure simplicity, and the celestial palaces and grottoes open into a hidden realm. Transformations extending everywhere respond in the netherworld, while clear radiance shines upon the Imperial Terrace. Traveling far in peace, one draws in the Qi of emptiness, allowing the Child Pool, a celestial garden pond symbolizing the vitality of life, to grow vast and flourishing. Whirlwinds condense and nurture all things; their splendid radiance is never lost. Yang Qi passes through the number one hundred and six, while submerged light appears before the steps. Deep, open, still, and silent, the true peak meets the spirits. Holding fast to the Great Dao and following its principles, one conveys an edict to Qian Forest, a celestial realm of immortals.

Within the Dragon Peace Grotto in the north, transformations are without limit; pure Yang Qi is hidden in the mysterious realm. The roots of all things return to primordial Qi, and forms lie concealed in a lofty distance. Wondrous transformations bestow blessings and refine the numinous root. Red Jing returns to the pure Dao, establishing a majestic and honored title. Auspicious clouds forever accompany immortal companions; the central mound, rising to a height of a hundred million ren, takes shape in lush splendor and becomes ramparts of jade. Immortal music spreads auspicious celebration. One receives a position in the Jade Chamber, and the great ordinances reach into the netherworld. Mysterious talismanic writings shine forth, making the heavenly order extend everywhere.

At the center, the Dark and Mysterious Gate leads to the path of returning to the source. Hesa, a name or special term in the scripture, brings all things into being from here. Extraordinary power is summoned so that transformations may continue without end; wherever the laws reach, prayers are fulfilled. In an instant, fields become red hills, stretching far and wide and receiving nourishment. Clouds gather and shine everywhere upon the land of Zhongqu. The precious Qi of emptiness sends forth light in the four directions; its deep and lasting merit endures. Splendid illumination fills heaven and earth, making the rites clear and accessible. Light spreads throughout the center.

The profound and mysterious Gate of Return bears Sa (a divine name), bringing forth and nurturing the myriad things. It summons extraordinary transformations and makes them endure for a long time: laws, Yu (a divine name or term), curses, and Ji (both obscure names or terms). Nongqing Chifu; a moistening from Youxun. Cloud Qi gathers, floating and flowing in a torrent; at the bend in the middle, all shines brightly. Precious emptiness reveals four rays of light; deep merit endures in the Stomach Lodge. Huajue is abundant and shelters all things; ritual offerings make it manifest and accessible. The Heaven of Light displays a crystalline scene: offerings, cool clarity, and vastness, moving in accord with the course. Stagnant Qi fills Shatan; a grudging Qi spreads out, issuing commands with solemn force. The water of Qu clears the Great Darkness; crimson cries of E leave the four directions in a daze. Racing northward, it roams through countless realms. Guo bones and Yuluo dragons each carry and scatter, gathering in Luodu. Examine this mysterious support, and you can utterly defeat the Six Demons.

“Script of the Great Brahma, Dragon Chapters and Phoenix Qi”

All of the above are the hidden writings and secret names of the various heavens; see the notes to the middle section for details.

Guanjue Yulian, Daming Ziling, Jiushen Duhun, Kaipi Yuzhen, Ayi Weiye, Feitian Liuyin, Lunjing Dichang, Duling, Yizhen, Huoluo, Dayou, Qingyun Qiling, Qiyao Huimo, Tianhui Furong, Xuwu Shangshou, Tianji Michen, Siyu Yuxiang, Zhuoyao Tengjing, Huanhe Dongyang, Fujing Yuguang, Jiuling Yaoge, Shiyuan Zit ang, Luoying, Sanjing, Yaoming Yufang, Bajing Zongshu, Shaozhu Shejing, Jiudu, Qianyu, Feisheng Shangling, Miluo Jingjing, Fuyu, Konglun, Guanwo Huanghua, Hongyun Xuanming, Shengong, Kaikuo, Yanzhuo Danting, Dayou Fujing, Zhen Ding, Huayuan, Yanzhuo, Sumiao, Wang Wen, Wang Liang Chengyan, Xiaozhi, Jieyu, Jingluo Qichan, Xiupan Sanfu, Liuhui Jiuxuan, Jiran, Xumiao, Feihua, Fuping, Chenlan Luji, Taimo Youyan, Aqiu Jiudu, Liulong, Wuyuan, Cang’ai, Fuluo, Zijing Fuyuan, Mingxing Taiyu, Jiuji Huagan, Fuxing Houde, Yuanhe Lun Jing, Yuying, Mingtuo, Jingchen Miaoyun, Dawei Zongjian, Xiule Jintian, Zixu Tuoqiu, Jie Liang Qianqian, Bixia Yunfan, Miaomiao Youyuan, Longbian Yunliang, Gu Jue E, Huiguan Xuanmo, Wandu Chengxian. These are all divine names and designations of the spirit realm used in scripture for visualization, recitation, or ritual. Each is paired in sequence with a specific finger sign and finger position. Terms such as “Yinwen” and “Maowen” identify the corresponding finger signs; phrases such as “the center of the fourth finger” and “the upper section of the middle finger” specify where the sign is made. The final phrase, “Wandu Chengxian,” means attaining immortality through universal salvation and the practice of ritual methods.

The Lower Section of the Ling Shu of Primordial Beginning

Author: the Perfected Sovereign of Heaven

The Eight Heavens of the East

This section uses a succession of mysterious phrases to unfold a vision of the Eight Heavens of the East. It evokes dense, solemn clouds, the refining of the essences of the hun and po souls, the depths of grotto-heavens, and the manifestation of primordial spirits. Many words are rare or appear to have been corrupted, making a line-by-line interpretation difficult. From the portions that can be recognized, the passage as a whole describes the wondrous numinous scenes and tranquil realms of the celestial world.

The Eight Heavens of the South

This section describes the Eight Heavens of the South: fiery radiance illuminates the halls, while the Great Empyrean (the lofty, distant sky) gleams like precious jade. Layer upon layer stretches into the distance, surrounded by portals and patterned designs. The passage then evokes the celestial realm with phrases suggesting profound depths, intermingling, and circling radiance, and uses expressions such as “Jade Mystery’s Evolving Marquis” to convey the movement and manifestation of mysterious Qi. Some words in the original are difficult to interpret with certainty.

The Eight Heavens of the West

This section uses mysterious phrases to describe the Eight Heavens of the West. Its imagery includes numinous Qi, boundaries, primordial Qi, upholding the Dao, and a remote, unending expanse. It also describes the Great Spirit in stillness, light in harmonious union, and celestial scenes such as cloud palaces. The meanings of many specific phrases cannot readily be determined from their literal wording.

The Eight Heavens of the North

This section describes the sky and passes of the Eight Heavens of the North, then evokes depths and hidden stillness, open passage and spaciousness, and mysterious, vast tranquility. It also mentions ritual altars (places for conducting rites or cultivation), the seasons, secret methods, and the protection of living beings. Taken as a whole, it presents a northern celestial realm that is mysterious and ordered.

The original repeats the “Eight Heavens of the South” and “Eight Heavens of the North” sections once each. Some phrases are also fragmentary or use variant forms; the interpretation above is a general reading based on the text as it survives.

The “Fann Qi Xuanliao Heavenly Treasure, Natural Sound of the Eight Harmonies,” transmitted by the Celestial Perfected, governs the realms of Huìdi, Leihongze, and other regions of the world, dispelling calamities and dangers. Reciting it drives away demons, malign spirits, and ghosts. The “Clear and Still Dao Qi” brings all things to peace. The Earth Official, charged with transmitting the scriptures, is revered by the myriad numinous beings. Write the scripture in cinnabar and wear it in accordance with the prescribed rules, and its efficacy will become manifest. These methods are taught only to those qualified to cultivate them; they are not proclaimed to worldly people.

The Supreme Ultimate Perfected sings the Dao:

The sacred clouds shine across the layered heavens; a net of Fann Qi gathers in the azure sky. The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning arrives in a chariot drawn by nine dragons, followed by the Celestial Perfected in a blue carriage. Numinous radiance gathers the many Perfected Ones; jewel-like lights illuminate the vast heavens. They bring forth and display the Lingbao Pian, thereby summoning blessings and De. The wondrous methods of the Dongxuan are profound and hidden. Jade-toned sounds echo among the clouds, as if cloud zithers were playing. The boundless wondrous Dao cannot be fathomed by thought, and the sea of the Dao surges in waves. The meaning of the teaching flows like a stream, nourishing fine seedlings; it is used to aid the hungry and distressed, advance the teaching, and protect the court. May the Imperial Lord live for countless years, may peace prevail throughout the land, and may warfare cease. I bow low in reverence and gaze up toward Yuchen; numinous, wondrous radiance falls like golden threads of light.

The Supreme Ultimate Perfected says:

The Great Lord of the Supreme Dao of Jade Dawn resides above the Ziwei Palace, in the Heaven of Seven Reflections. He stores the registers and mysterious writings of the scriptures. The Jade Consort holds the scriptures; the Golden Boy scatters fragrance; Taiyi holds a cloth; and the Jade Lad attends the banquet. Dragons roar and tigers howl as auspicious clouds fill the air. The true gods of the ten directions of heaven, the highest sages and revered ones, the Perfected of wondrous practice, the boundless flying heavenly god-kings, the great demons of the Three Realms, the Elders of the Nine Heavens, and countless other beings all chant the Jade Scripture and take refuge in the wondrous Dharma of the Supreme Lingbao, causing it to flourish and endure through myriads of kalpas.

Ritual Instructions

After reciting the scripture, click the teeth thirty-six times, bow toward the ten directions, close the eyes, and silently recite the incantation:

I reverently recite the Golden Books and Jade Scriptures. After reciting them ten times, I pray that Heaven will open the Dragon Chariot, allowing the celestial gods to descend and commanding the Six Ding spirits to raise my ancestors of seven generations to the heavens, while I too ascend to the Pure Realm.

I knock my teeth together nine times, swallow the saliva in my mouth ten times, bow reverently three times, and silently recite the spell:

Supreme August Perfect One, honored deity of the higher realm, please aid my ascent to the wondrous realm of the immortals. May I purify myself through fasting, bathe and cultivate, and recite the Golden Scripture. May the karmic obstacles of my ancestors of seven generations disperse, so that together we may attend court in the Great Void, the Daoist realm of emptiness and immortals. May my life be prolonged and enduring, and my name engraved in the Jade Book.

I knock my teeth together nine times and silently recite the High and Supreme Jade Purging Spell of the Divine Empyrean to Subdue Demons and Dissolve Sin:

Blessings spread throughout the Nine Generations of Ancestors; sinful karma is dissolved in the Three Destinies, the netherworld realms corresponding to one’s transgressions. The spirits guide me above the Nine Celestial Lords, enabling me to receive primordial Qi in the palace of the Great Emperor. The Five Immortals travel with the Great One, one of the supreme origins, and together ascend to dwell in the emptiness of the Profound Beyond. Thereupon I dwell in the immortal chambers of Highest Clarity and penetrate the chamber of the One Emperor with perfect understanding.

I knock my teeth together three times and recite the spell:

True Qi, righteous spirit, your name is Lord Tao. May true Qi merge with the Palace of Life, the inner chamber where life is nurtured, and protect the root of life. May I attain the Dao of the immortals and receive true Qi, dwelling with Qi Jing, the perfected immortals of the Daoist tradition, among the treasured clouds. May my ancestors of seven generations be reborn together, stand alongside the Great One, and ascend to dwell in the emptiness of the Profound Beyond; thereupon may they dwell in the immortal chambers of Highest Clarity and penetrate the chamber of the One Emperor with perfect understanding.

I knock my teeth together three times and recite the spell:

True Qi, righteous spirit, your name is Lord Tao. May true Qi merge with the Palace of Life and protect the root of life. May I attain the Dao of the immortals and receive true Qi, dwelling with Qi Jing among the treasured clouds. May my ancestors of seven generations be reborn together and receive the blessings bestowed by the High Dawn, the lofty celestial realm.

I knock my teeth together three times and recite the spell:

The One Emperor merges with the Nine Qi; primordial Qi condenses into the essence of Jade Radiance. Immortals wear precious feather robes and feast in the Jade Hall; winds from the eight directions fan the light. The High and Supreme deity rides the Jade Radiance, the luminous chariot of the immortal realm, ascends to the Brahma Realm, and enjoys a long life. Through seven transformations, he descends to the Purple Chamber; the mingling of the Nine Qi brings clarity to the Five Emperors. Six-colored radiance rises from the body, and golden light shines upon and spreads across the divine form. All the gods bathe in primordial Qi; their names are recorded in the Golden Book and entered among the ranks of the Jade Emperor’s court.

I knock my teeth together three times and recite the spell:

The Most High penetrates all; I fly upward to the Nine Origins, the nine tiers of Heaven. Essence and dark, mysterious Qi gather; Qi transforms and becomes spirit. The God of Destiny joins with me, and my form disperses into billions of manifestations. Riding the Fire Horse of the Qian position, I lead ten thousand riders—

The Highest One, the supreme Dao, shines forth in clarity, its radiance flying across the nine heavens. Jing and Qi gather, and primordial Qi transforms and gives birth to Shen. The deity who governs destiny brings the various Qis into harmony, and can also disperse forms, transforming them into countless manifestations. Heavenly soldiers ride in fiery armor; ten thousand cavalry raise their banners high. Together they follow the Great One, the supreme deity revered in Daoism, as he ascends and becomes an imperial immortal. Bo Wuqifei and Zhong Chengquwen are names of deities or offices mentioned in the scripture. First, may my primordial Qi unite with the Dao; then may my Shen, hun, po, and Jing unite with the Dao; finally, may my body also unite with the Dao. In this way, what is within me and around me, body and mind, becomes connected and clear in its numinous subtlety, revealing my true nature. The Eight Luminaries, a divine carriage on which immortals ride, soar through the sky, while the Three Plain Clouds, the three-colored clouds described in Daoism, become its floating wheels. I ascend with the Imperial One to Yuchen, the celestial palace.

Knock the teeth together three times and recite the incantation:

Layer upon layer, radiant branches intertwine; my body and mind unite with the celestial immortals. My body bears a register in the Dao, and on earth I have the roots of life. On golden tablets and jade tallies, my name is inscribed in the Sun Pavilion, the celestial register or palace. All my wishes come to pass; the celestial records teem with perfected immortals. Wherever I go, all is as my heart desires, and the gods fill my household. Constantly visualize the Highest One and the Imperial One dwelling in the Niwan, the inner landscape at the center of the head. Yin and Yang Qi mingle, and the hundred spirits accompany me. Recite the incantation beginning “The Celestial Immortals in Harmony”: My body bears a register in the Dao, and in this world I have the roots of life. My name is inscribed on golden tablets and jade tallies. My wishes are fulfilled; the celestial records teem with perfected immortals. Wherever I go, the ten thousand spirits fill my household. Constantly visualize the Highest One and the Imperial One dwelling in the Niwan; Yin and Yang mingle, and the hundred spirits accompany me. After reciting the scripture ten thousand times, a cloud-borne carriage will come to receive me and take me to a banquet, where I will meet the Five Emperors and the Nine Lords of the sun and moon. I will become an immortal and ascend to the Jade Court, the celestial palace. Then perform the official dismissal, sending the summoned divine officers back. Form the Jade Clarity mudra, one of the hand seals used in Daoism, with both hands.

Knock the teeth together nine times and recite the incantation:

This disciple has finished reciting the scripture. The disciples who came in response to the summons just now—the Three-Five Merit Officers within my body, who transmit documents and carry out duties; the left and right official messengers; the attendant incense-bearing youths; the word-transmitting maidens; the Five Emperors’ Talisman Envoys; and the incense officials on duty today, thirty-two of each—please all return to the Golden Chamber and Jade Hall, the dwelling place of the gods. Do not make errors or omissions; protect me and grant me long life. When I summon you again in the future, come as before.

Form the mudra and visualize with focused attention. After completing the dismissal and returning the gods to their proper places, knock the teeth together three times, offer incense, close the eyes, and silently recite the incantation:

Holy beings who came just now to hear the scripture and guard the ritual altar, please conclude the rite and return to your appointed duties. The divine wind grows still; mountains and seas return to solemn calm. All evil spirits lie hidden, and the assembled spirits guard my body.

Visualize the perfected beings and highest sages of the celestial realms in the ten directions. Knock the teeth together three times, offer incense, close the eyes, and silently recite the incantation:

Now that everyone has heard the scripture, the holy beings and spirits who guard it will depart, each returning to their appointed duties. The divine winds grow calm, the mountains and seas grow still, all manner of evil spirits hide themselves, and a hundred numinous spirits protect the body.

Visualize the holy perfected spirits of the heavens in the ten directions. Each rides a cloud and ascends to heaven, beginning in the east. In each direction, click the teeth three times and bow inwardly three times. Then inhale through the nose the clouds’ three-colored Qi and swallow it into the five organs. Next, visualize the Four Numina—the sacred beasts that guard the four directions—returning to their proper places. Click the teeth three times more, then swallow the saliva in the mouth three times. The rite is complete.

Incantation for Restoring the Incense Burner:

Form the hand signs in sequence: move from the Si position to the Chen position, pass through Yin to Chou, and finally return to the Yuqing position. As you form each sign, pause the fingers just before the corresponding position, then release.

Immortal spirits and immortal officials, golden youths and messengers, the Five Emperors, the perfected immortals of the Five Sacred Peaks, the righteous spirits of the Three Qi, the Lords of the Dragons and Tigers on the left and right, celestial and terrestrial immortals, and fragrant officials of the Five Numina: summon the pure and upright Qi of the ten directions. May Golden Liquid, the Elixir, blue zhi fungus, and the finest blooms of the lingzhi arise naturally. May the myriad numinous beings and perfected ones gather in the ritual hall where the Dongxuan Lingbao fast is being performed. Visualize auspicious light and Qi in five colors surrounding all the perfected ones, then flowing through and infusing my body, so that I may study and attain the Dao, seek and become an immortal, that my whole family may receive blessings, and that all under Heaven may benefit.

When performing rites to commend and deliver the soul of the deceased, instead say: May the departed soul be delivered, and may the living receive grace; may immortal youths and jade maidens of the ten directions attend the rising incense smoke. Visualize the smoke ascending straight upward to report to the Celestial Court: May the matter I, your servant So-and-so, previously prayed for be swiftly conveyed before the Supreme Lord Primordial Beginning, the Most High of the thirty-two heavens. Then flick the fingers to release the hand sign.

Next, recite the following aspiration, “On Hearing the Scripture,” three times:

Having heard the scripture, may all beings enter deeply into the Dharma, take refuge, and place their faith in it. Having heard the scripture, may all beings dispel every sin and increase their roots of goodness. Having heard the scripture, may all beings forever sever delusion and constantly return to the right path.

Then make aspirations in accordance with the meaning of the scripture and dedicate the merit to all beings.

On close examination, the precious scriptures of the Three Caverns are sacred laws followed by the heavens. They coalesced from flying, numinous Qi and took form as cloud-script characters; their meaning runs through the lives of all beings.

Next, in accordance with the meaning of the scripture that has been recited, make a vow and dedicate the merit.

In detail, the Treasure Scriptures of the Three Caverns (the Three Caverns are a classification of Daoist scriptures) are sacred texts honored by all the heavens. They crystallize as flying and mysterious Qi, are written in cloud seal script, express principles that reach throughout the world, and preserve words handed down through the ages. By means of these scriptures, Heaven and Earth are ordered and made stable, the sun and moon follow their courses, and ghosts and spirits attain transformation and understanding through revering them. When the people put them into practice, they find peace and prosperity. Those who recite the scriptures may ascend bodily to the Crimson Firmament, a heaven wreathed in red clouds; those who hear them may raise their spiritual consciousness to the Golden Palace in the heavens. All people, together with the heavenly realms, rely on the scriptures; the living and the dead alike find support in them. The scriptures are a bridge by which all beings cross suffering and a gateway to liberation. To hear such scriptures is truly to receive the wondrous gift of the Great Vehicle.

Earlier, your servant, so-and-so, ascended the scripture altar and recited a number of scrolls of the Wondrous Scripture of Primordial Beginning on Limitless Deliverance, the Highest Grade. The rite is now complete. Today, I respectfully offer prayers on behalf of so-and-so and dedicate the merit of reciting the scriptures. The petition is this: may the Highest Perfected Ones descend to protect and bless them, granting auspicious favor; if the rite is for the deliverance of the deceased, may the departed be transformed and borne to the realm of the immortals. As the scripture was opened and its mysteries proclaimed, its sound reached up through the Three Heavens; as the scroll was held and chanted, its voice carried across nine hundred million heavenly realms. May the incense-attending golden youths form characters of incense in the heavens, and may the jade officials who keep the scriptures present its text for inscription on bamboo records, so that sins accumulated over many lifetimes may be erased and blessings descend in the present day. May the living and the dead alike receive the grace of deliverance; may plants and animals, too, be grateful for the gifts of life and nurture. May all beings, even those remote and far-flung, and the smallest creatures endowed with life, together board the Boat of the Six Perfections, a metaphor for crossing the sea of suffering, and reach the farther shore of the Three Pure Ones, the highest heaven revered in Daoism.

The specific petition is stated separately. Next, recite the penitential text as an excellent source of virtuous affinity, then chant the sacred titles of the Celestial Worthies: the Unsurpassed Celestial Worthy of the Three Pure Ones; the Celestial Worthy Who Protects the Nation in the Age of Great Peace; the Celestial Worthy of Boundless Blessings; the Celestial Worthy Who Preserves Life and Protects Destiny; the Celestial Worthy Who Dispels Calamity and Delivers from Hardship; the Celestial Worthy of the Purple Clarity Who Bestows Blessings; the Celestial Worthy of the Great One Who Rescues from Suffering; the Celestial Worthy of the Numinous Treasure of the Ten Directions; and the Celestial Worthy of the Perfected and Complete Precious Flower. Boundless and inconceivable merit.

Charm for Leaving the Household

Emerging from Yin and entering Yang, may the myriad spirits open wide. The gates have been opened and the rite is complete; please close the chambers of the immortals.

This means: As we pass between Yin and Yang, may the spirits open the gates. The petition has been made; please close the gates of the immortal realm.

According to the Incantation for Visualization (a formula for visualizing divine beings in the mind during practice): The Azure Dragon is to my left, the White Tiger to my right, the Vermilion Bird before me, and the Black Tortoise behind me. The lions and earth beasts are beneath me, bearing me and my merit.

Incantation for Leaving the House

Leave the realm of Yin and enter the realm of Yang; may the gods open the way. When the task is done and the door has been closed, please close the dwelling of the immortals.

According to the Incantation for Visualization: The Azure Dragon is to the left, the White Tiger to the right, the Vermilion Bird before me, and the Black Tortoise behind me. The lions and earth beasts are below, bearing me; the white crane is above me, covering and protecting me. The deities of the four directions and of above and below are all in place. Together they are called the “Six Standards.” They stand to the left and right, before and behind, above and below; the meaning is clear. Thus, “Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, Black Tortoise, lions, and white crane” is a verse arranged by direction. “The left eye is the sun, the right eye is the moon” means that the sun appears in the left eye from the solar Qi on the left, while the moon appears in the right eye from the lunar Yin Qi on the right. The meaning of the sun and moon on the left and right is also clear. Thus, “the sun and moon on either side shine brightly” is also a verse.

As for the two chapters mentioned in the scripture, the Great Method holds that the first runs from “Primordial Beginning, Cavern Mystery” to “Set forth in words in Highest Clarity,” and the second from “Primordial Cavern, Jade Calendar” to “In words, join the exalted perfected beings.” The Purple Writ of the Cinnabar Sovereign of Guishan, the Numinous Chapter of the Empty Cavern explicitly explains that this passage is a song chapter of the Demon King, called “I Have the True Text of the Cavern Chapter.” Some mistakenly thought that the following passage formed a separate chapter. This error was then passed on and perpetuated, straying far from the scripture’s intent. I dare not insist on disputing and correcting it; I have only checked it against the Great Method, and so have appended this material after “I Have the Cavern Chapter.” Readers reciting the text should examine it carefully. The finger positions for forming the mudras in the formula are listed below; form each mudra according to the position of the finger joints.

Mudra of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing)

For “Highest Clarity,” press the upper section of the middle finger. For “Jade Clarity,” press the middle section of the middle finger; this is also called the “Mudra of the Supreme Lord” and refers to the primordial ancestral Qi represented by the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning. For “Great Clarity,” press the base of the middle finger.

Purple Tenuity Mudra

To form the hand seal with the left hand, pass the little finger behind the ring finger and hook it with the middle finger. Then press the thumb against the ring finger’s third joint. Place the middle finger on the crease at the center of the palm.

The Zi-Wu Dipper Formula

First place the left thumb on the “Zi” position at the base of the ring finger. Move it to the “Chou” position at the base of the middle finger, then to the middle joint of the middle finger. Next pass over the middle joint of the ring finger and move to its upper joint. Then pass over the upper joint of the middle finger and continue to the tip, pressing at the “Wu” position. Finally, flick the finger outward.

Secret of Forming the Wheel and Setting It in Motion While Reciting the Middle Chapter of the Ling Shu

Follow the nine-day method for guiding the heavenly stems—that is, the hand formula for moving through the heavenly stems in the order of the nine days—and begin at the “Gan-Hai” position.

First recite at the “Guanyin-Yin” position. Move to the upper joint of the ring finger, then pass over the upper joint of the middle finger and continue to its tip. Press at the “Wu” position, then flick the finger outward.

Secret of Forming the Wheel and Setting It in Motion While Reciting the Middle Chapter of the Ling Shu

Follow the nine-day method for guiding the heavenly stems, beginning at the “Gan-Hai” position.

“Guanyin” is at the Yin position, the base of the index finger; “Putan” is at the Chou position, the base of the middle finger; “Liuyin” is at the middle joint of the middle finger; “Yuzhen” is at the Mao position, the middle joint of the index finger; “Qingyun” is at the Chen position, the upper joint of the index finger; “Shangmen” is at the Si position, the tip of the index finger; “Liuxuan” is at the Wu position, the tip of the middle finger; “Xuyuan” is at the upper joint of the middle finger; “Shuoshuo” is at the Si position, the tip of the index finger; “Tuiqian” is at the Chen position, the upper joint of the index finger; “Daqian” is at the upper joint of the middle finger; “Lüzhan” is at the Wu position, the tip of the middle finger; “Ziqian” is at the Wei position, the tip of the ring finger; “Falun” is at the Shen position, the tip of the little finger; “Yunrong” is at the You position, the upper joint of the little finger; “Zigong” is at the upper joint of the ring finger; “Jiutong” is at the Shen position, the tip of the little finger; “Zhitang” is at the Wei position, the tip of the ring finger; “Xiaoyu” is at the upper joint of the ring finger; “Shaodu” is at the You position, the upper joint of the little finger; “Yanyou” is at the Xu position, the middle joint of the little finger; “Pinshou” is at the Hai position, the base of the little finger; “Heshen” is at the Zi position, the base of the ring finger; “Duxian” is at the middle joint of the ring finger; “Dao Gan” is at the Hai position, the base of the little finger; “Shangxuan” is at the Xu position, the middle joint of the little finger; “Heyun” is at the middle joint of the ring finger; “Shangtian” is at the Zi position, the base of the ring finger; “Yingxian” is at the Chou position, the tip of the middle finger; “Baozhen” is at the Yin position, the base of the index finger; “Zizhen” is at the Mao position, the middle joint of the index finger; and “Duren Yuqing” is at the middle joint of the middle finger.