《上清佩符文诀(五种)(青券诀、白券诀、绛券诀、黑券诀、黄券诀)》

The Nine Heavens True Book, Record of the Primordial Beginning Inspecting the Earth, also known as the “Purple Writ of the Jade Inspection of the Mysterious Terrace of the Three Origins,” the “Tiger Script of the Three Origins,” or “The Flying Heavenly Perfected Announcing to the Jing (essence) of the Myriad Spirits of the Six Heavens.” It is said to be able to constrain mountains and rivers, inspect the Qi (vital energy) of the nine earths, and command ninety jade maidens. When the world is at peace, those who wear this talisman can welcome the Sage Lord to the Shangqing Palace.

Those who receive the talisman must write the talismanic script with a yellow brush on azure silk, make a sacrificial announcement at their natal mountain (the mountain corresponding to the destiny number of their birth), and then wear it upon their person for nine years. If they have not yet ascended to heaven after nine years, they must write another copy and burn it, allowing the ashes to drift away with the azure smoke; they then write yet another copy and bury it at the natal mountain. The scripture states that thereby one can tread the river sources, constrain the earth spirits, and command the host of Shen (spirits), and after nine years ride the carriage of the Three Origins (a vehicle of the immortal realm) to ascend into the palaces of the Three Origins.

The wearer must not come into contact with defilement, violate the precepts of the Heavenly Perfected, or rashly reveal the talismanic script; otherwise the seven ancestors will be punished, the wearer will die, and the opportunity to become an immortal will be lost.

The above is taken from the Scripture of the Jade Inspection of the Three Origins.

Phoenix Script Vermilion Book Talisman

The Most High Lord of the Dao said to the Perfected One of Taiji (Taiji Zhenren): “You have already taken your place in Taiji (Supreme Ultimate) and command the ancestral offices of the host of gods. Although you possess the golden slips and jade registers (documents symbolizing identity and rank in the immortal realm), you lack the phoenix-script seal (a talismanic chapter formed of phoenix-shaped immortal writing), and therefore you cannot arbitrarily ascend to Jade Clarity or proceed to audience with the Three Primes. I now inform you of this matter; you must diligently put it into practice.”

Phoenix Qi Hidden Sounds Jade Characters Ninety-One

Those who wear this talisman may become divine immortals; those who cultivate this talisman may become Perfected Ones; those who follow this talisman may eliminate disasters and afflictions. If one is able to maintain long-term fasting and purification, cultivate with arduous effort, dwell in seclusion in remote mountains, and recite it ten thousand times, one may ride a dragon soaring into the void and ascend to Jade Clarity. The above is taken from the Scripture of the Purple Phoenix Red Writings.

High Sovereign Jade Dawn Commanding Demon Spirit Banner

Wearing this banner primarily serves to help the practitioner become a Perfected One; following it can eliminate disasters and afflictions. If one is able to maintain long-term fasting and purification, cultivate with arduous effort, dwell in seclusion in remote mountains, and recite it ten thousand times, one may ride a dragon soaring into the void and ascend to Jade Clarity. The above is taken from the Scripture of the Purple Phoenix Red Writings.

High Sovereign Jade Dawn Commanding Demon Spirit Banner

Wearing this banner is used chiefly to subdue the Demon Spirit Great King under the jurisdiction of the Eastern Azure Emperor. When performing the related ritual, one should enter the chamber after sunset, face east and recite the Song of the Azure Emperor, then hang the banner in the eastern part of the chamber. The characters on the banner should be written with white pigment on azure silk.

Divine Tiger True Talisman

The Divine Tiger True Talisman possesses great power; it can behead the ghosts and spirits of the Six Heavens, subdue the divine beings of heaven and earth, and destroy all manner of essences and monsters. Wearing it, the myriad ghosts vanish without a trace, and the host of demons cannot invade. Wearing the talisman to go for audience, one may pay homage to the Jade Emperor; placing the talisman in the sleeping chamber and worshipping it, the various Perfected Ones will arrive in the room.

Divine Tiger Upper Talisman

Wearing this talisman, one may advance through perils and obstacles, cross mountains and seas, summon gods and control ghosts, and confer titles on numinous peaks. Wherever one goes, a thousand kinds of demonic evils submit, and the myriad spirits are restrained; a host of immortals accompany and guard, and the body moreover emits a wondrous radiance. The above is taken from the Scripture of the Hidden Writings of the Eight Arts of the Most High.

Azure Emperor Jade-Cloud Flowing-Bell Ascending-Emptiness Pacing-the-Void Upper Talisman

The five lord-gods belonging to the Eastern Azure Emperor—Yuandong, Yuanming, Yuanyao, Yanling, and Yaoyuan—each have nine thousand attendants; ninety Jade Lads of Azure Yang stand attending on the left of the talisman script; two thousand four hundred immortal officials of the Eastern Peak Mount Tai, and ninety Jade Maidens of Azure Waist stand attending on the right of the talisman script, jointly protecting the person who wears this talisman.

Crimson Emperor Cinnabar-Cloud Flowing-Bell Ascending-Emptiness Pacing-the-Void Upper Talisman

The Southern Red Emperor (Chidi, the Emperor Lord of the South) has under his command eight thousand beings including the Great Cavern Primordial Birth Great Numinous Mechanism Sovereign Lord, together with eight Jade Youths of the Crimson Palace, who protect those who wear this talisman.

Red Emperor Cinnabar-Clouds Flowing-Bells Ascending-Emptiness Pacing-the-Void Upper Talisman

Under the Southern Red Emperor are eight thousand including the Great Cavern Primordial Birth Great Numinous Mechanism Sovereign Lord and others, with eighty Jade Youths of the Crimson Palace attending the left of the talisman script; two thousand four hundred immortal officials of the Southern Peak Mount Huo and eighty Jade Maidens of the Great Cinnabar Red Gui attending the right of the talisman script, jointly protecting those who wear this talisman.

White Emperor Plain-Zhen Flowing-Bells Ascending-Emptiness Pacing-the-Void Upper Talisman

The Western White Emperor (Baidi, the Emperor Lord of the West) has under his command six thousand including the Golden City Radiant-Origin Primordial-Guide Great Immortal Lord and others, with sixty Jade Youths of Radiant Numen Primordial Transformation attending the left of the talisman script; two thousand four hundred immortal officials of the Western Peak Mount Hua and sixty Jade Maidens of Great Simplicity attending the right of the talisman script, jointly protecting those who wear this talisman.

Black Emperor Green-Clouds Flowing-Bells Ascending-Emptiness Pacing-the-Place Upper Talisman

The Northern Black Emperor (Heidi, the Emperor Lord of the North) has under his command five thousand including the Mysterious Cavern Primordial Yin Five-Radiances Extending-Numen Primordial Glory Yudan Lord and others, with fifty Jade Youths of Imperial Mechanism Taiji attending the left of the talisman script; two thousand four hundred immortal officials of the Northern Peak Constant Mountain and fifty Jade Maidens of Great Mystery attending the right of the talisman script, jointly protecting those who wear this talisman.

Yellow Emperor Azure-Zhen Flowing-Bells Ascending-Emptiness Pacing-the-Void Upper Talisman

The Central Yellow Emperor (Huangdi, the Emperor Lord of the Center) has under his command one thousand two hundred including the Central Radiance Five-Yang Five-Yin Central Sovereign Cavern-Ultimate High Sovereign Lord and others, with twelve Jade Youths of Imperial Mechanism Holding Loyalty attending the left of the talisman script; two thousand four hundred immortal officials of the Central Peak Mount Song and twelve Jade Maidens of Yellow Simplicity attending the right of the talisman script, jointly protecting those who wear this talisman.

The five Flowing-Bells talismans of the Five Emperors possess immense divine power. They can subdue demonic beings in the farthest reaches of the heavens and summon and command the spirits of the five directions. Above they resonate with the Five Dawn [luminaries] and the Huoluo Seven Origins; below they correspond to the nine orifices of the human body. Those who wear the talismans thereby receive protection.

The Five Emperor Flowing-Bell Five Talismans possess tremendous power. They can subdue the demon kings of the heavens above and summon the spirits of the five directions. Above, they correspond to the Five Dawns, Huoluo, and the Seven Origins; below, they correspond to the nine orifices of the human body and the seven luminous orifices. They pervade heaven and earth, able to perceive and inspect whether in dark and hidden places or among the most minute things. When one visualizes the Fulu (talismans and registers), radiance appears; when one casts the Fulu, the spirits are shaken. To wear these Fulu, one must first receive the oral transmission from a master.

The above Five Emperor Talismans come from the Zidu Yanguang Jing (Purple Crossing and Blazing Light Scripture). Men use azure as the background for the talisman, write it with cinnabar, and wear it on the left side; women write it on yellow silk and wear it on the right side.

Jade Clarity Yuyue Nalinchang Jade Terrace Heaven Nine-Radiance Great Dawn Hidden Script Golden Mystery Inner Text

Those who cultivate the way of the immortals should write the talismanic script in white upon an azure wooden tablet and place it in the east, in order to annihilate the Great Demon King of the Azure Emperor and his subordinates and to summon the immortal officials of the east. After nine years of such practice, the Azure True Supreme Sage Imperial Elder will manifest beside the practitioner, command the immortal officials, and obtain naturally occurring numinous medicines.

One may also write the talismanic script in white on azure silk and wear it upon the person. When traveling abroad, one can summon the immortal officials of the east. After nine years of practice, the Azure True Supreme Sage Imperial Elder will appear at one’s side, command the immortal officials, and obtain naturally occurring numinous medicines. When proceeding toward the east, one will also summon the Great Demon King of the Anda Tangxiang Nashan World; he will fasten his sash and bow in greeting. Immortal officials will likewise attend as escorts. When going to the Eastern Peak, an azure-cloud feather canopy (a ceremonial canopy adorned with azure clouds) will appear. After nine years of practice one can fly and ascend to Shangqing (the Qingwei Heaven spoken of in Daoism).

The above content comes from the Yuqing Yinshu Jing (Jade Clarity Hidden Script Scripture).

Seven Origins Huoluo Suppressing-Star Essence Talisman

If one wishes to summon the Zhenren (Perfected) of the Central Peak and the immortal officials, one may write the talisman with cinnabar on yellow paper, ingest it while facing the direction of Taisui (the Grand Year), and concentrate in visualization for one hundred days. The immortal officials will then arrive immediately, and the Zhenren will come to one’s dwelling to transmit the medicines of the immortals and the True Books of the Five Elders (true scriptures related to the Five Elders of the five directions).

If one wishes to subdue the demons of the Yellow Emperor, one may write the talismanic script in azure, carve it on a yellow wooden tablet nine inches long, and place it in the direction of Taisui. After one hundred days the heavenly demons will be bound and the myriad kinds of spirits and monsters will dissipate of themselves. If the Imperial Chapter is continuously cultivated for seven years, one can fly and ascend to become an immortal.

The above content comes from the Qiyuan Jing (Seven Origins Scripture).

Dongmeng Hidden Text True Book

Write this Fulu (talismans and registers) with orpiment on cyan silk and wear it on your person, and you will be able to travel freely in the eastern Heluoti Kingdom, subdue the host of spirits, slay heavenly demons, overcome all manner of weapons, and wander the celebrated mountains. After seven years of cultivation you become an immortal capable of flying through the air. These words come from the Qiyuan Jing.

Dongmeng Hidden True Script: Write the Fulu with orpiment on cyan silk and wear it, and you can travel freely in the eastern Heluoti Kingdom, subdue the host of spirits, slay heavenly demons, overcome all manner of weapons, and wander the celebrated mountains. Hu Lao will support and welcome you; you will naturally understand the languages of the six kingdoms and converse with the spirits.

Southern Zhiyin Inner Text: Write the Fulu with orpiment on cyan silk and wear it, and you can travel freely in the Yishata Kingdom, subdue the host of spirits, slay heavenly demons, overcome all manner of weapons, and wander the celebrated mountains. Officials of Yue Lao will support, escort, and welcome you; you will naturally understand the languages of the six kingdoms and converse with the spirits.

Western Hunqingdong Hidden Origin Inner Text: Write the Fulu with orpiment on cyan silk and wear it, and you can enter the Niweiluolüna Kingdom, subdue the host of spirits, slay heavenly demons, overcome all manner of weapons, walk the mysterious path, enter the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing, the highest heavenly realm venerated in Daoism), and wander the celebrated mountains. Di Lao will support and welcome you; you will understand the languages of the six kingdoms and converse with the spirits.

Western Hunqingdong Hidden Origin Inner Text: Write the Fulu with orpiment on cyan silk and wear it, and you can enter the Niweiluolüna Kingdom, subdue the host of spirits, slay heavenly demons, overcome all manner of weapons, walk the mysterious path, enter the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing), and wander the celebrated mountains. Di Lao will support and welcome you; you will also naturally understand the languages of the six kingdoms and converse with the spirits.

Northern Jiulingzhang Jinyin Inner Text: Write the Fulu with orpiment on cyan silk and wear it, and you can enter the Xuntaluo Kingdom, subdue the host of spirits, slay heavenly demons, overcome all manner of weapons, ascend Guanghan (the legendary lunar palace), pay homage to the northern stellar deities, and wander the celebrated mountains. Qiang Lao will support and welcome you; you will also naturally understand the languages of the six kingdoms and converse with the spirits.

Shangqing Baoyuan Hidden Register Inner Text: Write the Fulu with orpiment on cyan silk and wear it, and you can ascend to the Yuanjing Qingdun Natural Kingdom, subdue the host of spirits, slay heavenly demons, overcome all manner of weapons, tread upon empty space, rise into Yuqing (one of the Daoist heavenly realms), and wander the celebrated mountains. Myriad true deities will support and welcome you; you will also naturally understand the languages of the six kingdoms and converse with the spirits.

If written with orpiment on azure silk fabric and worn on the person, one may come and go in the Infinite Realm of Great Harmony and Precious Truth, subdue the host of spirits, slay the heavenly demons, and vanquish the five weapons; enter the secluded cavernous abyss, ascend to the realm of mysterious darkness, roam the Northern Origin, pay homage at the Purple Court, and wander freely among the famous mountains. At that time the Five Elders will support and receive one, and one will spontaneously comprehend the languages of the six kingdoms and be able to converse with the deities.

Inner Text of the Assembly of True Spirits of Central Transformation

If written with orpiment on azure silk fabric and worn on the person, one may come and go in the Infinite Realm of Great Harmony and Precious Truth, subdue the host of spirits, slay the heavenly demons, and vanquish the five weapons; enter the cavernous abyss, ascend to mysterious darkness, roam the Northern Origin, pay homage at the Purple Court, and ramble among the famous mountains. The Five Elders will support and receive one, and the person will spontaneously comprehend the languages of the six kingdoms and converse with the deities.

Supreme Hidden Text for Entering the Six Kingdoms

This writing was transmitted by the Upper Minister, Lord Azure Youth, and comprises one hundred eighty-five characters. Written with orpiment on azure silk fabric and worn, a precious radiance arises from the head, illuminating the ten directions of the heavenly realms; one may also command thirty-six jade youths and thirty-six jade maidens, roam the Five Sacred Mountains and all famous mountains, enter the six kingdoms, and proceed to the river sources. Wherever one may be, the assembled immortals and divine officials of every quarter come forth to salute, and the territorial spirit officers along the way likewise welcome one. The wearer may thereby awe the six kingdoms, vanquish the five weapons, possess inexhaustible transformations, and proceed according to the heart’s desire. Flying wheels, the Cinnabar Empyrean, and the Purple Carriage descend to receive one, causing the wearer to ascend to the Eastern Floriate Azure Palace.

When wearing this writing to roam the six kingdoms, ascend the Five Sacred Mountains, and pass through the various famous mountains, upon arriving at the border of a territorial realm one should first knock the teeth thirty-six times, hold the breath for thirty-six respirations, and then recite the following prayer:

The Jade True Ones come and go, lingering; the cloud-borne carriages travel on high. This day is auspicious: dragons soar and phoenixes fly; the immortal retinues array themselves in order; the roads of the four quarters are all opened; the six masters lead in front; the realms of the ten directions come to welcome. Immortal youths hold banners aloft, jade maidens scatter fragrance; the Five Elders salute with reverence; the ranks fly in neat and graceful order. Sun and moon shine upon one another; numinous immortals support and escort. Traversing every kingdom, touring the four directions; the Four Waterways (the four great rivers) and the Five Sacred Mountains all transform into my bridges. The envoys dispatched by the Imperial Lord sweep away inauspiciousness; all that the host of gods accomplish is auspicious. Marvelous and wondrous events number in the thousands; the cultivation power of the immortal spirits increases within the heart; the grotto-heavens of distant lands shine bright and open; ultimately one ascends to the Jade Capital (the celestial immortal metropolis of the Daoist heavens).

After the ritual is completed, draw in Qi (vital energy) thirty-six times and then swallow it. The foregoing is the Great Invocation of Awe-Inspiring Shen (Weishen Dazhu, a method of prayer-invocation) used when the Upper Minister goes forth on excursion. Cultivating it enables one to subdue the Six Kingdoms, vanquish the myriad spirits, summon immortal officials so that they come to one’s side, achieve inexhaustible transformations, and ascend into Taiqing (the Highest Clarity heavenly realm). The above is taken from the Waiguo Fangpin Jing.

Upper Numinous Flying Jade Talisman

This is a Fulu (talisman) chapter transmitted by the Mysterious Immortal Feather Essence and in accordance with the natural Dao. After wearing it for seven years one may ride the void in flight and ascend to the Seven Origins (Qiyuan, a heavenly realm). This is the talisman method employed on the day of ascending cultivation. The above is taken from the Waiguo Fangpin Jing.

Upper Numinous Flying Jade Talisman

This is a Fulu chapter transmitted by the Mysterious Immortal Feather Essence and in accordance with the natural Dao. After wearing it for seven years one may ride the void in flight and ascend to the Seven Origins. On the day the ascending-cultivation rite is held, write the talisman in the center of the left palm, immediately grasp the Azure Haze (Bixia, cyan cloud-qi), and fly through the air; one may also write the talisman on a nine-cun length of cyan silk and wear it. Once the talisman is worn, on the left one commands the Six Jia and Twelve Shen (protective spirit-generals), while on the right twelve Jade Maidens attend in service.

One-Origin Opening-and-Falling Solar-Essence Talisman

Write it with cinnabar on white paper, bind it facing the corresponding direction and swallow it, then concentrate single-mindedly in visualization for one hundred days; a Zhenren will descend into the dwelling and converse with the practitioner. To subdue demonic jing, write the talisman in cyan ink on a nine-cun yellow wooden plaque and place it in the monthly Jian direction (the direction corresponding to the earthly branch of the current month); celestial demons will dissipate of themselves and the myriad jing-specters will be bound. This talisman is an imperial seal; it must be treated with caution and never disclosed. Secretly honor and practice it, and after ten years of cultivation one may fly as an immortal.

Three-Origins Opening-and-Falling Jupiter-Essence Talisman

Write it with black ink on cyan paper, face east and swallow it, then concentrate single-mindedly in visualization for one hundred days; immortal officials will swiftly arrive and a Zhenren will come to the dwelling to bestow upon the practitioner the medicine of immortals and gods. To subdue the demons of the Azure Emperor, write the talisman in white ink on a nine-cun cyan wooden plaque and place it in the east for one hundred days; celestial demons will be bound and the myriad jing-specters will perish of themselves. This talisman is an imperial seal and should be cultivated in secret; after seven years of practice one may fly as an immortal. The above is taken from the Qiyuan Jing.

Azure-Emperor Talisman for Summoning Ling, Attracting the Zhen, and Subduing Demons

Wearing this talisman for eight years, the Heavenly Emperor will descend driving an eight-wheeled chariot to welcome the practitioner and enable ascent to heaven in broad daylight. This is a secret method transmitted from the Nine Heavens and should be sincerely treasured and kept confidential. In cultivating this Dao there is no power of the Dao that fails to descend and no immortal who cannot be accomplished. Write the talisman in black on an azure wooden plaque nine inches wide and one foot two inches long, place it on the eastern interior wall of the house, and recite the scripture during practice. The foregoing is from the Jinzhen Yuguang Jing.

Jade Talisman of the Black Emperor for Spirit Communication on Ren and Gui Days

Write the talisman in black on azure silk and wear it on the body; also, on a Ren or Gui day (water days in the sexagenary cycle) write it in black on azure paper and ingest one piece while facing north. After three years of cultivation on Ren and Gui days the Tai Xuan Jade Maiden (a northern spirit) will descend and appear, enabling the practitioner to communicate with the numinous, know affairs ten thousand li distant in the north, and receive natural provisions sent by the immortal officials of the Northern Peak. After nine years ingest another black talisman on a Ren or Gui day. After completing three years of Ren and Gui days the Tai Xuan Jade Maiden will descend and appear, enabling the practitioner to communicate with spirits, know affairs ten thousand li distant in the north, and receive natural provisions sent by the immortal officials of the Northern Peak. After nine years the Black Emperor (Northern Heavenly Emperor) will descend into the bedchamber, driving a flying wheel of black auroras to welcome the practitioner and cause ascent into the Shangqing Palace (the immortal realm of Daoism). The foregoing is from the Lingfei Liujia Jing.

Orthodox Method of the Red Heaven Xuanhuang for Expelling the Six Heavens Text

The flying mysterious Qi of Xuanhuang (the wondrous primordial Qi spoken of in Daoism) condenses into a jade talisman. One who wears this talisman becomes one in truth with the three Qi, commands the Six Heavens, inspects the breath, captures demons and heterodox forces, and slays numerous fierce evils; with mighty power the wearer rules the host of spirits and may enter and exit water and fire without suffering harm from ten thousand calamities. The foregoing is from the Santian Zhengfa Jing.

Jade Purity Single Green Inspecting Treasure Wheel Dharma Heaven

The inner text of the Golden Mystery Hidden Book of High Superior Dragon Smoke.

The Later Sage Nine Mysterious Golden Palace Emperor Lord received this formula from the High Primordial Spiritual Emperor Tingjing Lord and transmitted it onward to the Upper Chancellor Green Youth Lord. One should write the talisman in yellow pigment upon a green wooden board and set it in the southwest, thereby annihilating the Great Demon King under the Yellow Emperor’s jurisdiction together with his subordinates, and summoning the Yellow Emperor’s immortal officials from the Yanfu Township Renjing World in the southwest. After nine years of cultivation, eight emperor-rank True King immortal officials manifest upon the practitioner’s person, confer the spiritual medicine of flying immortals, and refine the body through seventy-four transformations.

Alternatively the talisman may be written in yellow characters upon green-grained material and worn on the body while one proceeds toward the Yanfu World in the southwest. Then the myriad spirits bind their sashes and come to court, the Demon King salutes in welcome, the True King immortal officials appear upon the practitioner, bestow the flying-immortal spiritual medicine, and refine the body with seventy-four transformations. Continuing toward the Yanfu World, the Demon King kowtows in greeting; the Three Primes (Sanyuan), the three celestial deities honored in Daoism, send down flying carriages and jade wheels to receive the practitioner into the Chamber of the Three Primes.

Jade Clarity Beiwei Xiequ Chumo Heaven Combined Radiance Morning Mandate Hidden Scripture Golden Mystery Inner Text

The Fusang Great Emperor received this formula from the Supreme Empyrean True King. In cultivating the Dao of immortals one writes the talisman with a yellow brush upon a cyan wooden board and places it in the southeast, thereby destroying the Great Demon King ruled by the Yu Emperor and his followers, and summoning the Yu Emperor’s immortal officials from the Yuanfutian Yongxian World in the southeast. After fifteen years of practice twenty Jade Maidens arrive to attend and await command, and they grant naturally generated spiritual medicines.

The talisman may equally be written in yellow script upon green-patterned material, worn on the person, and carried toward the Yongxian World in the southeast. There the myriad spirits gird themselves and come to court, the Demon King kowtows in reception. After five years twenty Jade Maidens come to serve and wait upon orders, and natural spiritual medicines may be obtained. Wearing the talisman while traveling to the Yongxian World also permits one to ride a green-cloud feathered canopy and ascend to the Palace of Jade Clarity (Yuqing).

Northern Emperor Cavern Spirit Annihilating Demons and Killing Ghosts Jade Text

This talisman was received from the High Supreme Three Heavens and is guarded by twelve Yellow Plain Jade Maidens. It is also called the Divine Annihilation Numinous Strategy and is the talismanic writing worn by the High Supreme Jade Emperor Lord.

To subdue the ghosts and demons of Wu days and Ji days, write the talisman on green silk one chi two cun in length and three cun two fen in width. On Wu days place the talisman at the Jia position in the east; on Ji days place it at the Yi position. Hold the breath for nine respirations, knock the left teeth thirty-six times, then recite the prayer:

“The spirit of the Yellow Center governs the numbers of destiny and commands the Nine Heavens; the Three Numina respond to the talisman’s mandate, and the Five Elders examine the registers of immortality. Hasten and restrain the Northern Emperor to bind and escort the bodies of demons, causing the hosts of the wicked to close their eyes and permit no delay. This is a command issued by the Supreme God; pursue without regard to kinship. Should any dare to escape, they shall at once be subdued by Fengshan, the place that administers punishments upon ghosts and spirits. This command is as clearly verified as an imperial tally and is reported upward to Yuchen, a revered Daoist deity.”

When the prayer is finished, draw in Qi (vital energy) nine times, swallowing after each inhalation, then cease. Practice this for nine days and all ghosts and demons will be bound, revealing their forms and appearing before the eyes to await commands; myriad demons will vanish without a trace and the hosts of sprites will lose their Jing (essence).

Write the talisman on green silk and wear it upon the person, and one may travel throughout the world; myriad ghosts will flee and a thousand sprites will conceal themselves, none daring to offend. After nine years of cultivation one will naturally be able to command the seven Su Ling Jade Maidens, female immortals of Daoism. The foregoing talisman method originates from the Hidden Scripture of Jade Clarity.

Here ends the Formula of the Green Ticket from the Shangqing Texts on Worn Talismans.

The Formula of the White Ticket from the Shangqing Texts on Worn Talismans

The Supreme Jia-Yi Entering-Wood Nine-Qi Ranked Talisman

The practitioner who wears this talisman may summon the spirits; by visualizing the Qi of this talisman one may cause the true gods to descend. One may further request that one’s name be deleted from the registers under the Water Emperor and inscribed upon the jade tablets of the immortal registers. Following the scripture in visualization and recitation, after nine years of cultivation one may write the talisman and cast it into the mountains, causing the mountains to send down clouds and rain. Write the talisman upon wood and even if the shavings are planed away the characters will not disappear but will shine still more brightly. Holding the talisman while embracing a tree, the body itself will transform into mountain forest. Bury the talisman at the Eastern Peak (Mount Tai) and the Eastern Peak will dispatch twelve immortal officials to stand guard; after eighteen years of cultivation one may fly upward and ascend to Shangqing, the immortal realm of Daoism.

Should this method be rashly divulged, one will be punished by ghost soldiers, the calamity extending to seven generations of ancestors, and one will oneself be buried at the source of the river.

Practitioners who wear this talisman (fulu) can summon the corresponding spirits; by visualizing and nourishing the Qi (vital energy) that this talisman represents, they can cause the true spirits to descend. In this way the record in the Water Emperor’s register can be erased and one’s name entered into the jade tablets of the immortal registers. Following the Jing (scripture) in visualization and reciting the invocations, after nine years of practice it is said that one can write a talisman and cast it toward a forest, causing the forest to ignite of itself; write a talisman and cast it into water, and a jiaolong (flood dragon) will appear; cast it toward a mountain, and clouds and rain will fall upon the mountain. If the talisman is buried at the Southern Peak, immortal officials will come to attend and guard the practitioner’s body. After eighteen years of practice, one can fly and ascend to Yuqing (the high celestial realm spoken of in Daoism).

If this set of methods of the Dao is rashly disclosed, calamity will implicate seven generations of ancestors; after death the person will fall under the jurisdiction of the ghost officials, remaining long confined in hell and unable to become an immortal.

Practitioners who wear this talisman can summon the corresponding spirits; by visualizing and nourishing the Qi that this talisman represents, they can cause the true spirits to descend. In this way the record in the Water Emperor’s register can be erased and one’s name entered into the jade tablets of the immortal registers. Cultivating in accordance with the Jing, holding the visualization and reciting the invocations, after nine years of practice it is said that one can write a talisman upon a stone and refine the stone into gold; after writing the talisman and clasping the stone, the stone will conceal its traces and vanish. If the talisman is buried at the Western Peak, immortal officials will descend and bring wondrous objects that appear of themselves. After eighteen years of practice, one can ride the void and fly up to Yuqing.

If this set of methods of the Dao is rashly disclosed, one will be punished by the divine soldiers, and seven generations of ancestors will also be held to account for the offense.

Practitioners who wear this talisman can summon the corresponding spirits; by visualizing and nourishing the Qi that this talisman represents, they can cause the true spirits to descend. Cultivating in accordance with the Jing, holding the visualization and reciting the invocations, after nine years of practice it is said that one can write a talisman and cast it into water, causing the jiaolong to halt the flowing waters and still the waves, so that one may oneself enter the water as if moving through the air. If the talisman is buried at the Northern Peak, immortal officials will descend, bringing divine medicines and the methods of deathless longevity. After eighteen years of practice, one may pass away sitting or standing while the bodily form disappears, then ride the void in flight and ascend into Yuqing.

This set of methods of the Dao is profound and mysterious, and is not transmitted to those who lack sincere qualification for cultivation. If this numinous text is rashly disclosed, seven generations of ancestors will be held to account for the offense; after death the person will fall under the jurisdiction of the ghost officials, long serving among the ghostly throng of the netherworld, unable to ascend as an immortal.

The title of this piece is the Taishang Wuji Entering-Earth One-Qi Class Talisman.

Practitioners who ingest these Fulu (talismans and registers) may summon the spirits and deities; by visualizing the Qi (vital energy) contained within them, they may welcome the descent of the Perfected Ones. Should anyone arbitrarily alter or carelessly disclose these numinous writings, their ancestors of seven generations will all be subject to interrogation and punishment; after death, they themselves will be taken into the custody of the ghost officials, long serving as ghost laborers in the netherworld, unable to ascend as immortals.

Taishang Wuji Earth-Entering One-Qi Ranked Talisman

The practitioner who ingests this talisman may summon the spirits and deities; by visualizing the Qi contained within it, they may welcome the descent of the Perfected Ones. In this way one can have one’s name struck from the registers of the Water Emperor (the deity who governs the Water Bureau) and have one’s own name inscribed upon the jade tablets (the registers of the immortal realm). Practice in accordance with the scripture and recite the invocatory verses. After nine years of doing so, one will comprehend the languages of the thirty-six kingdoms and be able to behold the forms of the thirty-six Earth Sovereigns beneath the myriad abysses. After writing the Fulu, cast it into the earth so that one’s physical form unites with the soil; then bury the talisman at the Central Peak (Mount Song among the Five Sacred Peaks). Immortal officials will then serve as attendants and guards, and one will also obtain food and the elixir of immortality that arrive of their own accord. After eighteen years of practice, one will be able to fly through the lofty heavens and ascend into the Jade Capital (the capital city of the immortal realm). This method ought to be kept secret; if it is carelessly disclosed, ancestors of nine generations will be subject to interrogation and punishment, and the practitioner will also bear the guilt of the Three Paths (the sufferings of the three evil destinies of hell, hungry ghosts, and animals) and be condemned to penal labor in the mountains of the netherworld.

Taishang Nine-Sources Azure-Qi Ranked Talisman

On the morning of the Beginning of Spring or the Spring Equinox, write it with cinnabar upon green paper and ingest it while facing east. Visualize in accordance with the scripture: King of the Gods of the Eastern Sea, I pray you strike my name from the registers of the dead and inscribe me upon the immortal registers (the roster of immortals). After reciting the invocatory verses according to the ritual, cast the Fulu into deep waters that flow toward the east. After eighteen years of practice, the Water Emperor will inscribe your name in Jade Purity (a realm of the immortal world); at that time a dragon chariot will descend to receive you and carry you aloft into the Great Void.

Taishang Cavern-Origin Red-Qi Ranked Talisman

At noon on the Beginning of Summer or the Summer Solstice, write it with cinnabar upon green paper and ingest it while facing south. Visualize in accordance with the scripture: King of the Gods of the Southern Sea, I pray you strike my name from the registers of guilt and inscribe me upon the immortal registers. After reciting the invocatory verses according to the ritual, cast the Fulu into deep waters that flow toward the south. After eighteen years of practice, the Divine King will enter your name upon the roster of the Jade Emperor (the exalted deity of the celestial realm); at that time cloud-dragons and a vermilion carriage will descend to receive you and carry you aloft into the Great Void.

Taishang Cavern-Abyss White-Qi Ranked Talisman

At the shen hour on the autumnal equinox and the beginning of autumn, write this talisman in cinnabar on azure paper and wear it while facing west. In performing the practice, visualize the Divine King of the Western Sea, requesting that he expunge the records of one’s transgressions, enroll one in the registers of immortality, and submit a memorial to the Jade Emperor. After the prayers prescribed by the scripture have been completed, cast the talisman into a westward-flowing abyss. After eighteen years of such cultivation the sea deities will come to protect and welcome the practitioner; waterways and bridges will present no obstacle, and a dragon chariot will descend to bear one flying through the Great Void.

The Taishang Dongchuan Heiqi Banfu is written in cinnabar on azure paper at the zi hour on the beginning of winter and the winter solstice, then worn while facing north. In accordance with the scripture one visualizes the Divine King of the Northern Sea, requesting that he expunge the records of one’s transgressions and enroll one in the Jade Register (the register recording the names of the perfected immortals). After the prayers prescribed by the scripture have been completed, the talisman is cast into a northward-flowing abyss. After eighteen years of such practice one can summon the water spirits, assemble twelve jiao-dragons to convey water and produce rain so that daylight grows dim, and fly through the air. The nine talismans above originate from the Scripture of the Nine Crimson Spotted Talismans.

Those who cultivate the Female One and practice the methods of the Great Cavern should constantly wear the Taishang Sanju Fangzhang Zhenling Zhi Fu upon the chest. The talisman is written in cinnabar and may be of any size. It can be carried about the person at all times, and when sitting or reclining it may also be placed in the mattress beneath one. When worn on the body the talisman should measure four cun on a side; when used for sitting and lying it should measure three chi on a side. The scripture states that wearing this talisman confers long life without death and also enables one to command ghosts and spirits, so that the Great Demon King of the Northern Emperor dares not invade. This talisman originates from the Perfected Scripture of the Great Cavern (Dadong Zhenjing).

The scripture says that after wearing the Taishang Baozhang for eight years the Three Ones (the three spirit-lords within the human body) will appear. Write it in cinnabar on white silk and wear it on the left elbow. The Lord Azure Youth once transmitted this chapter to Juanzi for sealing famous mountains. This chapter originates from the Perfected Scripture of the Female One of the Four Palaces.

The Jinhu Zhenfu.

The Golden Tiger True Talisman is used to subdue the spirits (Shen) of heaven and earth; it can destroy a thousand kinds of goblins and subdue ten thousand ghosts. Wearing this talisman when traveling, one may have an audience with the Jade Emperor; when it is respectfully placed in the bedchamber, the host of Perfected Ones will arrive in the room. Those who wear it can awe heaven and earth and rebuke the multitude of spirits, ride dragons and mount luminous carriages (supernatural vehicles), and take their place among the high immortals. When the sacred sounds resound, Jade Flower Divine Maidens stand in attendance at one’s side and Golden Perfected Divine Generals provide protection; a thousand demons are blinded and ten thousand ghosts are annihilated. The above is drawn from the Taishang Bawei Yinwen Jing (Scripture of the Hidden Texts of the Eight Protections of the Most High).

The Talisman for Crossing the Great Kalpa, Protecting Life and Ensuring Long Existence is a talisman transformed from the Jing (essence) of the Nine Mysteries of the Primordial Beginning. When one encounters the Great Yang Nine Assembly (a great calamity period in Daoism) and floods that inundate the heavens, it should be written with cyan cinnabar on white silk and worn on the head. In this way one may float upon the clear waves, remain unharmed by all manner of disasters, preserve the body and live long; worn over a long period, it enables one to become an immortal.

The Talisman for Crossing the Small Kalpa, Protecting Life and Ensuring Long Existence is the Nine Heavens Great Perfected Talisman. When one encounters the cycle of the Small Yang Nine (a lesser calamity period), with frequent floods and all kinds of disasters occurring together, it should be written with cinnabar on white silk and worn on the left elbow. Thereafter one may enter deep water without sinking and enter fire without being burned; no disaster can inflict harm. It preserves the body and grants longevity equal to that of heaven. Worn over a long period, it enables one to become an immortal.

The Talisman for Crossing the Great Hundred-Six Calamity, Protecting Life and Ensuring Long Existence is the Supreme Sovereign Jade Heaven Talisman. When one encounters the Great Hundred-Six Calamity (a major Daoist catastrophe), it should be written with cinnabar on white silk and worn on the head; one will then remain unharmed by epidemics and sudden disasters, preserve the body, and enjoy a lifespan equal to that of the sun, moon, and stars. Worn for nine years, it enables one to become a flying immortal in broad daylight and ascend to Taiqing (the Heaven of Great Purity).

The Talisman for Crossing the Small Hundred-Six Calamity, Protecting Life and Ensuring Long Existence is the High Supreme Purple Void Jade Talisman. When one encounters the Small Hundred-Six Calamity, it should be written with yellow cinnabar on white silk and worn on the left elbow. Even if a thousand demons and ten thousand goblins run rampant and epidemics spread, one remains unharmed by disaster; it preserves the body and grants a lifespan equal to that of heaven and earth. Worn for nine years, it enables one to ascend in broad daylight.

Yin-Yang Talisman for Crossing Calamities and Preserving Life Forever

This is the jade talisman of the Youth of the Three Heavens. When the movements of Heaven and Earth undergo change, when plagues and disasters appear in succession, and when floods, fires, warfare, illness, and a thousand other calamities arrive together, write the talisman on black or white silk and wear it on the body. It is said that one may then live as long as Heaven and shine together with the sun and moon. After nine years of cultivation, one may ascend in flight and reach Taiqing (the ethereal immortal realm of Great Purity spoken of in Daoism). The five talismans above all come from the Upper Scripture of the Purple Book.

Yellow Emperor’s Wu-Ji Spirit-Communing Jade Talisman

Write the talisman on yellow paper and wear it on the body. It is said that one may live as long as Heaven and shine together with the sun and moon. After nine years of cultivation, one may ascend in flight and reach Taiqing. The five talismans above all come from the Upper Scripture of the Purple Book.

Yellow Emperor’s Wu-Ji Spirit-Communing Jade Talisman

Write the talisman on yellow paper or white silk and wear it on the body. Then, on a Wu day or a Ji day, write the talisman on yellow paper and ingest one piece while facing Taisui (the deity who governs the year). After three years of cultivation, on Wu and Ji days a Jade Maiden of Yellow Silk (a Daoist spirit) will descend; the practitioner will then attain spiritual communion, know affairs within ten thousand li of the center, and be able to summon the immortal officials of the Central Peak to send the Natural Kitchen (food bestowed by the immortals). After nine years, the Yellow Emperor will descend into the bedchamber; the practitioner, riding a flying wheel of yellow mist to receive him, will ascend to the Shangqing Palace (a Daoist immortal realm).

Jiazi Plain Memorial Cinnabar Talisman

Write the talisman in cinnabar on white silk and wear it on the body. In the early morning of a Jiazi day, write the talisman again in cinnabar on white paper, ingest it while facing east, and at the same time pray that all one sees before the eyes be clear and distinct, while visualizing the Straight Jia Jade Maiden (the goddess who administers Fulu, talismans and registers) holding the talisman in front.

Jiawu Plain Memorial Cinnabar Talisman

Write the talisman in cinnabar on white silk and wear it on the body. In the early morning of a Jiawu day, write the talisman again in cinnabar on white paper, ingest it while facing east, and at the same time pray that all one sees before the eyes be clear and distinct, while visualizing the Straight Jia Jade Maiden holding the talisman in front.

Jiachen Plain Memorial Cinnabar Talisman

Write the talisman in cinnabar on white silk and wear it on the body. In the early morning of a Jiachen day, write the talisman again in cinnabar on white paper, ingest it while facing east, and at the same time pray that all one sees before the eyes be clear and distinct, while visualizing the Straight Jia Jade Maiden holding the talisman in front.

Jiaxu Plain Memorial Cinnabar Talisman

Write the talisman in cinnabar on white silk and wear it on the body. In the early morning of a Jiaxu day, write the talisman again in cinnabar on white paper, ingest it while facing east, and at the same time pray that all one sees before the eyes be clear and distinct, while visualizing the Straight Jia Jade Maiden holding the talisman in front.

Jiayin Plain Memorial Cinnabar Talisman

Write the talisman in cinnabar on white silk and wear it on the body. In the early morning of a Jiayin day, write the talisman again in cinnabar on white paper, ingest it while facing east, and at the same time pray that all one sees before the eyes be clear and distinct, while visualizing the Straight Jia Jade Maiden holding the talisman in front.

Write the Fulu (talismans and registers) with cinnabar on white silk fabric and wear it on the person. On the morning of the Jia Yin day, write the talisman again with cinnabar on white paper, face east and ingest it while sincerely praying, clearly visualizing in the mind the Zhi Jia Jade Maiden (the goddess who guards the Fulu) holding the talisman and standing in front.

The Su Zou Dan Fu of the Jia Shen Day

Write the Fulu with cinnabar on white silk and wear it on the person. On the morning of the Jia Shen day, write the talisman with cinnabar on white paper, face east and ingest it while sincerely praying and visualizing the Zhi Jia Jade Maiden holding the talisman standing in front. Write the talismanic characters with cinnabar and carry out the procedure according to the ritual of setting up a Zhaijiao (purification ritual) to receive the talisman as on the Jia Zi day, then wear it on the body. It is said this can summon the gods of destiny and the numinous gods, command the seas and sacred peaks, and seal off mountains and rivers. When traveling the Five Sacred Mountains the assembled gods respectfully welcome the practitioner. One can also command the Six Jia spirit generals, ascend to heaven or enter the abyss, and divide the body to become invisible. Wherever one may be among the seventy-four directions, every wish is immediately realized and every destination immediately attained. After nine years of practice one can summon the Three Primes (the upper, middle and lower Three Yuan deities of Daoism), fly through the void and ascend to the Qiong Palace. The foregoing is taken from the Lingfei Liujia Jing (scripture).

The Gaoshang Yuchen Mingmo Lingfan

Wearing this pennant (used to summon gods and control demons) is said to subdue the Great King of Spiritual Demons commanded by the Western White Emperor. According to the prescribed method, on the appointed day enter the inner chamber, recite the Western Melody and set up the pennant. Thereafter place the pennant inside the chamber; one may then fly through the void and ascend to the Qiong Palace. The foregoing is taken from the Lingfei Liujia Jing (scripture).

The Gaoshang Yuchen Mingmo Lingfan

Wearing this pennant is said to subdue the Great King of Spiritual Demons of the Western White Emperor. According to the prescribed method, on the appointed day enter the inner chamber, recite the Western Melody and set up the pennant; place the pennant in the western part of the chamber, written with cinnabar on white silk fabric.

The Xuanqiu Taizhen Shu Yinwen

It is said that wearing this talisman summons hosts of spirits and subdues the ten thousand essences. After wearing it for nine years one may behold the Three Yuan Lords and welcome the Sage Lord to the Shangqing Golden Palace. The talismanic text is written with cinnabar on white silk fabric. The foregoing is taken from the Qusu Shangjing (scripture).

The Siyuan Huoluo Taibai Xingjing Fu

To summon the Zhenren and immortal officials of the Western Peak, write the talisman with yellow pigment on white paper, face west and ingest it, concentrating on visualization for one hundred days; it is said the immortal officials will then arrive and the Zhenren will enter the dwelling, bestow authentic writings upon the practitioner and converse with him. To subdue the demons commanded by the White Emperor, write the talisman with cinnabar on a nine-inch white wooden board and face west in practice for one hundred days; it is said the heavenly demons will then be bound and the ten thousand essences will dissipate of themselves. This talisman is an imperial chapter. After seven years of practice one attains the Dao, becomes an immortal, transcends the mundane world and ascends to heaven in broad daylight. The foregoing is taken from the Qiyuan Jing (scripture).

The Baidi Zhaoling Zhizhen Shemo Zhi Fu

After wearing it for eight years, the Heavenly Emperor will descend riding mysterious-colored radiance in a green chariot to welcome the practitioner and escort them into Taiqing (the Daoist realm of clear emptiness and immortality). This is a secretly transmitted covenant of the Nine Heavens that the practitioner must treasure and keep confidential. By cultivating according to its methods, every sought Dao (the Way) will arrive of itself, and the path of immortality will certainly be accomplished. Write the talismanic script in yellow pigment on a white wooden tablet nine cun wide and one chi two cun long, place it on the west side of the room, and face west while practicing and reciting the scripture; thus one may ascend into Taiqing.

The above is from the Jinzhen Yuguang Jing.

Santian Zhenshu

Whoever wears this talisman, upon entering water, will have jiao dragons open the way so that they may travel ten thousand li; at the great kalpa’s turning they may also leap into the void and proceed to the Shangqing Palace to assist the Sacred Venerable.

The above is from the Santian Zhengfa Jing.

Xia Lingfei Yufu

This is the mysterious jade chapter condensed from the Jing (essence) and Qi (vital energy) of Yuanshi Tianzun. After nine years of wearing it one can fly through emptiness, ascend the Five Stars, and cultivate by following the Dao Qi of flying steps that rise into mystery. Without this talisman one cannot travel through the air. The recipient must swear an oath with sixty chi of plain silk; on the very day cultivation begins, write the talisman in the palm of the right hand and one may grasp the plain numen and fly. It may also be written in vermilion cinnabar on nine-cun white silk and worn; on the left it commands the Six Jia and Twelve Shen (spirits), while on the right twelve Jade Maidens attend.

The above is from the Taishang Huiyuan Jiudao Feixing Yujing.

Yuqing Gaotiao Lichong Longluo Tianguan Lingyuan Chen Yinshu Jinxuan Neiwen

The Fulu (talismans and registers) worn by the Nine Elders of the Immortal Capital, honored deities of the immortal realm. In cultivating the way of the immortals, write the talismanic characters in red on a white board and place it in the west, so as to annihilate the great demon king serving the White Emperor of the West together with his retinue, and to summon the immortal officials of the west. After twelve years of such practice the immortal official Jing Su Ling, Seven Saints Golden Spirit Lord, will manifest in form and descend to be commanded by the practitioner; the immortal official will also fetch natural numinous medicines for him.

One may also write the talisman with cinnabar on white silk and wear it on the body. When the practitioner travels among flourishing worlds such as the Western Hall of Blessings Continent, the great demon king will fasten his sash, kowtow, and salute in greeting; the immortal officials will attend and escort him into the Western Peak. Thereafter a plain-cloud feather canopy, a chariot cover of feather ornaments resembling white clouds, will descend, and after twelve years of practice one can fly and ascend to the Yuqing Palace. The foregoing is taken from the Yujing Yinshu Jing.

Northern Emperor Cold Spirit Jade Writ for Extinguishing Demons and Killing Ghosts

This talismanic writ is received from the High Supreme Three Heavens and guarded by thirty-six jade maidens. It is also called the Nine Heavens Mandate Demon Writ and is the Fulu worn by the High Supreme King of the Divine Empyrean.

To slay ghosts that appear on Jia days and Yi days, write the talisman with cinnabar on white silk one chi two cun in length and three cun two fen in width. On Jia days place it at the Geng position in the west; on Yi days place it at the Xin position. Then hold the breath seven times, knock the teeth thirty-six times, and recite the prayer:

“I receive and ride the Heavenly Dao, fulfill the Qi (vital energy) of Heaven, and carry out the majestic talismanic command. The High Supreme Jade Writ universally gathers and subdues all ferocious evils. The Cold Spirit is constrained by me, sounding like the heavenly bell. I clearly inform Bo Shi to inspect and subdue Northern Feng, the northern ghost realm; first slay the ghostly kinds, then cut down the demon kings. Whether great or small, cause their traces to vanish; whether high or low, cause them to collapse. Acting upon Heaven’s mandate, order their breath cut off in the Fire Palace. Taiyi, an honored Daoist deity, supervises the decree; the Five Elders, honored Daoist deities, command the spirits. Heaven is clear and earth is bright, the roads of all directions unobstructed. The talismanic commands carried out on Jia and Yi days are all reverently obeyed.”

After the ritual is completed, swallow the Qi (vital energy) seven times as prescribed. Cultivating in this way for seven days, the heavenly demons will have their forms bound, manifest anomalous signs, and submit to being commanded before one's eyes; the roots of ghosts and sprites will be eradicated, and all manner of goblins will perish of their own accord. Write the talisman in cinnabar on white silk and wear it upon the person, and one may travel throughout the world, with hosts of demons not daring to offend and multitudes of ghosts not daring to disturb. After seven years of cultivation, one will naturally be able to command the eight Tai Dan Jade Maidens. The foregoing is drawn from the Shangqing Shenhui Yinshu.

Jade Names of the Hidden Book within the Golden Palace

There are ten jade characters in all, written in vermilion.

Those who wear it will have their names engraved by the Golden Palace (the palatial towers of the immortal realm spoken of in Daoism) upon jade tablets and registered as immortal names; the numinous immortals of the Four Waterways (the four great rivers) and the Five Peaks will guard and escort them. Those who know this method can ascend in flight to the Golden Palace and soar into Shangqing (the wondrous immortal realm venerated in Daoism).

Jade Names of the Shangqing Golden Book Jade Hidden Book

There are ten jade characters in all, written in vermilion.

Those who wear it will have their names engraved by the Golden Palace upon jade tablets and registered as immortal names; the numinous immortals of the Four Waterways and the Five Peaks will guard and escort them. Those who know this method can ascend in flight to the Golden Palace and soar into Shangqing.

Upper Text of the Shangqing Golden Book Jade Register

There are ten jade characters in all, written in azure.

Those who wear it will have their names engraved by Shangqing upon golden tablets, registered as divine immortals, and the register transmitted to the Five Peaks; immortal officials will support and welcome them. Those who know this method can ascend in flight to Shangqing, ranking equivalent to the Four Perfected (the perfected immortals of Daoism).

Taiji White Tablet Text

There are ten jade characters in all, written in azure.

Those who wear it will have their names inscribed by the Taiji (Supreme Ultimate) Palace, entered into the tablet texts and registered in the spirit repository, with the spirits of the four directions dispatched to guard them. Those who know this method can ascend in flight to the Taiji Palace and appear soaring within the Golden Palace.

Fangzhu Hidden Text of Mysterious, Plain, and Purple Names

There are ten jade characters in all, written in azure.

Those who wear it will have Fangzhu Palace inscribe the three immortal names of Xuan, Zi, and Qing. After nine years one will be able to fly; immortals will guard and welcome, and the Five Peaks will also register the names. Those who know this method can ascend in flight to Fangzhu Palace.

Taiqing Jade Register Crimson Name Hidden Text

There are ten jade characters in all, written in vermilion.

The wearer of this talisman will have their crimson name (the red-colored designation in the Daoist registers of names) engraved into the jade register by Taiqing (one of the Daoist heavenly realms). After nine years they will communicate with the divine spirits, fly, and receive twelve jade-lad attendants. Those who know and cultivate this method may ascend to Taiqing and enter the radiantly shining Qiong Palace.

Hidden Text of the Golden Names on the Qiong Slips of Taisu

It is written with ten jade characters in yellow. The wearer of this talisman will have their name engraved on the Qiong slips (tablets fashioned of beautiful jade) by Taisu (one of the Daoist heavenly realms). After nine years they will ride flying clouds and ascend to heaven in broad daylight. Those who know and cultivate this method may fly up to the palace of Taisu and have an audience with the Three Primordial Lords (the venerable deities of the heavenly realms of the Three Officials).

Upper Text of the Cinnabar Script Purple Register of the Southern Pole

It is written with ten jade characters in red. The wearer of this talisman will have their name registered on the Purple Register (the Daoist register of immortal names) by the Southern Pole. After nine years the Three Primordial Lords will descend and confer the secret writings of the Perfected, after which they will be able to ascend to heaven in broad daylight. Those who know and cultivate this method may fly up in broad daylight and pay homage to the Taiji (Supreme Ultimate) Yuanjun.

In the Mysterious Palace the Upper Primordial notes the name in cyan upon the Purple Register; after nine years the Three Primordials descend, confer the true writings upon the disciple, and they ascend to heaven in broad daylight.

Those who know and cultivate this method may fly up in broad daylight and pay homage to the Taiji (Supreme Ultimate) Yuanjun.

Hidden Text of the Cyan-Gold Red Script of the Upper Primordial of the Mysterious Palace

It is written with ten jade characters in cyan. The wearer of this talisman may behold with their own eyes the true form of the Shangyuan (the true visage of the Upper Primordial venerable deity). After nine years the Shangyuan will descend to their dwelling, confer the secret writings of the Perfected, and they will become a divine immortal. Those who know and cultivate this method may fly up to the Mysterious Palace and ride the light into Shangqing.

Hidden Text of the White Jade Golden Characters of the Cinnabar Terrace of Xuandu

It is written with ten jade characters in yellow. The wearer of this talisman will have their name engraved on the name register of the Cinnabar Terrace (a pavilion in the Daoist immortal realms). After nine years they will fly by riding the luminous scenery of the sky; with prolonged cultivation they may become a divine immortal. Those who know and cultivate this method may fly up to Xuandu in broad daylight.

Hidden Text of the Cyan Script on the Lin Tablets of the Three Primordial Palace

It is written with ten jade characters in cyan. The wearer of this talisman will have their name engraved on the tablets of Qionglin (beautiful jade). After nine years the Three Primordial Lords will come to their dwelling, confer the secret writings of the Perfected, and enable them to become immortal and fly. Those who know and cultivate this method may ascend to heaven in broad daylight and pay respects to the Three Primordial Lords.

Hidden Text of the Mysterious Name Register within the Mysterious Dipper

It is written with ten jade characters in black. The wearer of this talisman will have their name engraved into the name register of the Mysterious Dipper. After nine years divine beings will descend and confer the secret writings of the Perfected; by cultivating this method they may become a divine immortal. Those who know and cultivate this method may ascend into the Mysterious Dipper and fly through the palaces of Shangqing.

The Names of the Cinnabar Writings, Qiong Slips, and Purple Register of the Five Peaks

It is written with ten jade characters in cyan.

Those who wear this talisman will be guarded by the Lingguan of the Five Peaks, the deities who preside over the Five Sacred Mountains. The Five Emperors will inscribe their names upon the registers of the Five Peaks. After nine years of cultivation one may ride the spirits and fly in ascent. Those who know this method can rise into the Mysterious Dipper and fly within the palaces of Highest Clarity (Shangqing).

Among the Five Peaks are names recorded in the cinnabar writings, jade tablets, and purple registers.

Ten jade characters written in azure.

Those who wear this textual talisman will be guarded by the Lingguan of the Five Peaks, and the Five Emperors will inscribe their names on the registers of the Five Peaks. After nine years of cultivation one can fly through emptiness and ascend into the Mysterious Palace. These one hundred twenty jade characters are the talismanic writings for wearing. After wearing them, when walking among mountains and peaks all sentient beings of the ten-direction worlds will offer salutations and ten thousand immortals will come to pay homage. Those who know this method may ascend to heaven in broad daylight and fly above the Five Peaks. The foregoing is drawn from the Qisheng Xuanji Jing.

This concludes the Shangqing Peifu Wen Baiquan Jue.

Shangqing Peifu Wen Jiangquan Jue

The Liujin Huoling Fu. Those who wear this talisman already possess in their destiny an affinity with becoming an immortal. When the wearer goes out or travels, one should constantly visualize in the mind a circular radiance above the neck that shines as far as four hundred thousand li. With sincere cultivation for nine years the true spirit will descend. Write the talismanic text with cinnabar on purple silk two chi two cun in length and wear it upon the head. The above talisman method comes from the Zidu Yanguang Jing.

The Gaoshang Yuchen Mingmo Lingfan. Those who wear this talisman use it chiefly to subdue the Great King of Demon Spirits commanded by the Red Emperor of the South. On a selected day enter the inner chamber, recite the southern melody chapters, and hang the spirit banner in the southern part of the room. Write it with a black brush on crimson silk. The foregoing is from the Qusu Shangjing.

The Chidi Zhaoling Zhizhen Shemo Zhi Fu. Write the talisman with azure ink on a red wooden board nine cun wide. For the rites concerning the Great King of Demon Spirits of the Southern Red Emperor, on a selected day enter the chamber, recite the southern melody chapters, and set the spirit banner in the southern part of the room, writing with a black brush on crimson silk. The foregoing is from the Qusu Shangjing.

The Chidi Zhaoling Zhizhen Shemo Zhi Fu. Write the talisman with azure ink on a red wooden board nine cun wide and one chi two cun long, and place it on the southern side of the chamber. After practicing and reciting scriptures for one hundred days one can converse with divine persons. After three thousand days of cultivation red rosy cloud vapors will spontaneously arise within the room. If one wishes to summon Zhenren and celestial immortals, write the Fulu according to the prescribed method, place the talisman on the eastern side, and concentrate in visualization for one hundred days; then the Zhenren will appear, immortals will arrive at the dwelling, and they will transmit the Way of the divine and true. The foregoing is from the Jinzhen Yuguang Jing.

If the wearer of the talisman wishes to communicate with spirits and cause divine beings to descend, the talisman may be written on yellow paper, ingested while facing west, and visualized with concentrated mind for one hundred days. A divine person will then manifest in bodily form and converse with the wearer.

If one wishes to subdue demons and capture Jing (essence) and Qi (vital energy), the talismanic script may be written in black on a red wooden board nine cun in length and the board placed in the northeast. After one hundred days the Northern Emperor will seize the demons and restrain the goblins, causing the host of demons to perish and both inner and outer to become pure. This is a method used by emperors and should be secretly treasured in cultivation; after seven years of practice one can fly up to immortality and ascend to heaven in broad daylight.

To summon the Perfected One of the Southern Peak and the immortal officials, the talismanic script may be written in azure on red paper, ingested while facing south, and visualized with concentrated mind for one hundred days. The immortal officials will arrive at once, and the Perfected One will also come into the chamber, bestowing numinous mushrooms and precious texts upon the wearer and conversing with them.

If one wishes to subdue the demons under the jurisdiction of the Red Emperor (the deity of fire virtue in the south), the talismanic script may be written in black on a red wooden board nine cun in length and placed facing south for one hundred days. The heavenly demons will then be bound and the host of spirits will perish of themselves. This is a method used by emperors; after seven years of practice one can ascend to heaven in broad daylight. The above talisman methods come from the Scripture of the Seven Origins (Qiyuan Jing).

Write this talisman in azure on crimson silk and wear it; alternatively, on a Jia or Yi day write it in azure on crimson paper and ingest one piece while facing east. Continuously practicing according to Jia and Yi days for three years, the Azure-Waisted Jade Maiden will descend, enabling the wearer to penetrate the numinous and extraordinary, know all affairs within ten thousand li of the east, and summon the immortal officials of the Eastern Peak to present the kitchen of spontaneity (immortal food spontaneously bestowed). After nine years the Azure Emperor will descend in the sleeping chamber and welcome the wearer with a wheel of azure clouds into the Palace of Highest Clarity (Shangqing Gong). This method comes from the Scripture of the Numinous Flight of the Six Jia (Lingfei Liujia Jing).

The primordial azure flying-mysterious Qi condenses to form jade writings. One who wears this talisman can command the numinous spirits, mobilize the Qi, and overawe the four directions; one can enter and exit the void, making all paths unobstructed.

The White Orthodox Method of the Heavenly Origin of Yuyu Heaven for Expelling the Six Heavenly Scripts: The scripture then lists this talisman’s name and repeats the explanation that the primordial azure flying-mysterious Qi condenses into jade writings. The wearer can command the numinous spirits, mobilize the Qi, overawe the four directions, enter and exit the void, and make all paths unobstructed.

The Primordial White Orthodox Method of Yuyu Heaven for Dispelling the Six Heavens Script

The primordial white flying-mystery Qi (vital energy) condenses into jade writings. Those who wear it can rectify and subdue the myriad spirits, rely upon divine might to annihilate demons and evils, avoid the Yang Nine calamities (the disaster periods spoken of by the ancients), and prevent misfortunes from lasting throughout one’s life. They suffer no harm from disasters, come and go in mysterious and wondrous realms, and act with complete freedom of will. The above talismanic writings come from the Scripture of the Orthodox Method of the Three Heavens.

The Hidden Book of Golden Mystery Inner Writings of Yuqing Chongrong Yuyu Disha Heaven of Aligning Radiance and Dawn

The Queen Mother of the West transmitted this book to the Northern Polar Imperial Lord. Those who cultivate the way of immortals should write it in azure ink on a purple tablet and place it in the northeast, so as to annihilate the Great Demon King of the Azure Emperor and his subordinates, and to summon the immortal officials of the Azure Emperor from the Fudu Collection Yong’an World of the northeast. After ten years of practice, eighteen immortal youths will come to await one’s commands; one may also collect natural spiritual medicines and obtain the High Supreme Flying Mystery Feathered Writs.

It may also be written with an azure brush on purple-patterned silk and worn upon the body. If one carries out this method in the Yong’an World of the northeast, the myriad spirits will clasp their hands in respectful submission, and the Demon King will kowtow and salute in greeting; the practitioner can then ride upon a purple-cloud feather canopy and fly to the Palace of Yuqing.

The Hidden Book of Golden Mystery Inner Writings of Yuqing Biluo Empty Song Yuli Heaven of Total Dawn Nine Poles

This is the hidden book worn by the High Primordial Lord of Yuqing. Those who cultivate the way of immortals should write it in black ink on a red tablet and place it in the south, so as to annihilate the Great Demon King of the Southern Red Emperor and his subordinates, and to summon the southern immortal officials. After eighteen years of practice, the Dongyang Cinnabar Spirit True Scenery Lord will appear in form beside the practitioner, and the immortal officials will obey one’s commands; the practitioner may also collect natural spiritual medicines.

It may also be written in black on deep-red patterned silk and worn upon the body. If one carries out this method in the Qixian World of the Wanli City Realm in the south, the Great Demon King will clasp his hands, kowtow, and salute in greeting, and the immortal officials will attend and protect. After entering Nanyue, one may obtain the Southern Pole Precious Book and the cinnabar-cloud feather canopy; after eighteen years of practice, one can fly to the Palace of Yuqing. The above talismanic writings come from the Scripture of the Yuqing Hidden Books.

Left Spirit Flying Jade Talisman

The essence contained when Mysterious Qi (Xuanqi) first arises is called the “Chapter of Plain Feathers.” Worn for nine years, one can mount the void and fly, ascending to the Five Stars. When preparing to cultivate, write the talisman in the center of the left sole and one can tread the emptiness and fly. Write this “Chapter of Plain Feathers, Essence of the First Arising of Mysterious Qi” on a nine-cun length of crimson silk and wear it on the person for nine years; one can likewise mount the void and fly, ascending to the Five Stars. When preparing to cultivate, write the talisman in the center of the left sole and one can tread the void and fly. Writing the talisman on nine-cun crimson silk and wearing it is said to enable one to command the Six Jia and Twelve Spirits, with twelve Jade Maidens standing in attendance before one. This talisman originates from the Upper Scripture of the Nine Perfected Ascending Mystery.

Jade Text of the Northern Emperor’s Plain Numina for Extinguishing Demons and Slaying Ghosts

This jade text was transmitted from the High and Upper Three Heavens and is guarded by thirty-six Jade Maidens of Plain Numina. It is called the “Military Credential of the Nine Heavens” and is the talismanic writing worn by the King of Divine Empyrean of Jade Purity.

If one wishes to slay and eliminate the ghosts belonging to Geng days and Xin days, write the talisman in black on cinnabar-colored plain silk measuring one chi two cun in length and three cun two fen in width. On Geng days place it at the Bing position in the south; on Xin days place it at the Ding position. Hold the breath for three respirations, knock the left teeth thirty-six times, then recite the invocation:

“Heaven opens and Earth communicates, Mysterious Qi is clear and luminous; sweep away the veils of emptiness and falsehood, causing the Five Paths to shine brightly. Receiving the edict of the Sovereign, inspect and govern the myriad spirits. In the domains administered by Northern Feng, majesty rectifies their forms; those under the control of the High and Upper deities, come at once to receive commands. The host of demons arrive of themselves, ghosts, sprites and essences are annihilated; wind arises and lightning flashes, purged and pacified from Heaven. All is enacted according to the Mysterious Talisman; prostrate and await the Heavenly Emperor’s disposition.”

When the invocation is finished, draw in Qi three times and swallow it. Practicing in this manner for three days, it is said that ghost-demons will all be subdued, manifesting their forms and shadows, waiting before the eyes to be dispatched; the multitude of demons will be constrained according to the law, and ferocious evils will also disappear. Write the talisman in black on cinnabar-patterned silk, wear it on the person and walk throughout the world, and it is said that the myriad ghosts will all flee, and the host of spirits will be unable to encroach. After three years, one will naturally obtain the power to command five Jade Maidens of Great Mystery. This talisman originates from the Scripture of the Hidden Writings of Jade Purity.

The Crimson Register Formula of the Shangqing Worn Talisman Texts ends here.

Black Register Formula of the Shangqing Worn Talisman Texts

The Demon-Commanding Numinous Banner of the High and Upper Jade Dawn

Those who wear this talisman can subdue the Black Emperor of the North (the northern deity) and his great demon king. On the dates prescribed in this scripture one enters the quiet chamber, recites the Northern Melody, sets up banners and flags within the room, and places the talisman on the north side, written with a yellow brush on black silk. The foregoing is drawn from the Qusu Shangjing.

The Talisman of the Black Emperor for Summoning Spirits, Attracting the True, and Subduing Demons is written with white pigment on a black wooden board nine cun wide and one chi two cun long and placed on the north side of the quiet chamber. After the practitioner enters the chamber and recites the scriptures for one hundred days, conversation with divine beings becomes possible; after three years of cultivation, green rosy clouds appear of themselves within the room. Should one wish to summon Zhenren (Perfected Ones) and celestial immortals, the Fulu (talismans and registers) are written according to the method already described, the talisman is placed on the west side, and one enters the chamber to recite the scriptures while concentrating on visualization for one hundred days; the Zhenren then manifest their forms and immortals arrive in the room to transmit the way of the divine immortals. The foregoing is drawn from the Jinzhen Yuguang Jing.

The White Emperor Gengxin Jade Talisman for Communicating with Spirits is written with white pigment on black silk and worn on the person. On Geng or Xin days it is also written with white pigment on black paper and one talisman is ingested while facing west. After three years of practice the Gengxin Taisu Jade Maiden descends and appears; the wearer thereby communicates with the numinous, knows events ten thousand li to the west, and summons the immortal officials of the Western Peak to deliver natural food and drink. After nine years of cultivation the White Emperor descends into the sleeping chamber, welcomes the wearer onto a flying wheel of plain rosy clouds, and they ascend into the Shangqing Palace. The foregoing is drawn from the Lingfei Liujia Jing.

The Spirit-Flight Jade Talisman is the essence of primordial Qi (vital energy) and the feathered document for ascent into the mysterious realm. Worn for nine years it enables travel by riding flying clouds. On the first day of practice the talisman is written on the sole of the right foot so that one may fly by treading mysterious Qi; it may equally be written on black silk nine cun in length and worn on the person. The wearer commands the Six Jia and the Twelve Spirits and is attended from behind by twelve Jade Maidens. Worn for nine years this talisman likewise permits riding flying clouds; written on the sole of the right foot at the outset of practice it allows flight upon mysterious Qi. Written instead on nine-cun black silk and worn, it likewise commands the Six Jia Twelve Gods with twelve Jade Maidens in attendance. The foregoing is drawn from the Jiuzhen Shengxuan Shangjing.

Yuqing □ Mo Danlou Yu Yitian. The hidden writings of distant radiance and wandering roots, the inner text of golden mystery.

This is a method of immortal cultivation transmitted by the True King of the Nine Heavens. The practitioner should write the talismanic script (Fulu) on yellow paper and on a black wooden tablet, then place them in the north, in order to destroy the great Demon King of the north and his subordinates, and to summon the immortal officials of the north. After fifteen years of practice, it is said that one may call forth the Mysterious and Supreme Jade Perfected Lord of the North Pole (the honored deity of the north), who will confer upon the practitioner a Supreme Precious Book and place fifty immortal officials at one's command.

Another method is to write the talismanic script on yellow paper, furnish it with black decorative patterns, wear it on the body, and travel to Yudanye in the north (a legendary realm of purity) to cultivate. The scripture (Jing) says that when the time comes, the myriad spirits will stand in orderly ranks, and the Demon King himself will bow in welcome; after one enters the Northern Peak, a feathered canopy of black clouds will appear, and one will be able to fly to the Palace of Jade Clarity (Yuqing).

The above content is taken from the Scripture of the Hidden Writings of Jade Clarity (Yuqing Yinshu Jing).

Jade Script of the Northern Emperor's Cinnabar Numen for Destroying Demons and Slaying Ghosts

This talisman was transmitted by the Supreme Three Heavens and is guarded by sixty-four Jade Maidens of the Vermilion Palace. It is also called the “Law of Subduing and Slaying,” and is the talismanic script worn by the Supreme Demon-Dispelling King.

If one wishes to drive off and slay the ghosts corresponding to bing and ding days, the talisman should be written on yellow paper one chi two cun long and three cun two fen wide. On a bing day it is placed at the northern ren position; on a ding day, at the northern gui position. One then holds the Qi (vital energy) for five breaths, knocks the teeth on the left side thirty-six times, and recites this incantation:

“The supreme celestial deities issue the order, universally subduing the myriad spirits. The officer-clerks deliver the talismanic mandate, acting in accordance with the statutes of Jade Clarity; they inspect Northern Feng (the northern underworld), bind and escort the name-registers of demons and ghosts. Affairs required by the High Lord must not miss their appointed hour; the August Elder oversees the edict, the Five Immortals command the troops, and the Spirit of the Heavenly One holds the battle-axe, immediately slaying and extinguishing the evil demons. Myriad upon myriad of wicked ghosts submit to punishment according to the law; thousand upon thousand of deviant and demonic forms are put to the sword; all who are subdued by the Law of Slaying are without exception completely cleared away.”

After the recitation, one draws in the Qi and swallows five times, then stops. The scripture states that if this is carried out for five days, ghosts and demons will all be bound and their traces will become visible, as if appearing before one's eyes; all manner of malevolent and deviant forces will vanish, and numerous sprites and monsters will perish of themselves.

After completing the practice, when concluding the session one regulates the breath and swallows the Qi (vital energy) five times. Cultivating in this way for five days, ghosts and demons will have their forms bound and their traces revealed, and the matters that need to be handled will appear before the eyes; all kinds of inauspicious calamities will vanish, and various spirits and monsters will withdraw of themselves. By tying and wearing on the body the yellow silk inscribed with Fulu (talismans and registers) writings, one may travel throughout the world; all kinds of demonic evils and inauspicious calamities will be extinguished, and the host of spirits will not dare to encroach. After five years of practice, one will naturally be able to command the twelve Huangsu Yunü (Yellow-Plain Jade Maidens, Daoist deities). The above Fulu method originates from the Yuqing Yinshu Jing.

The combined Fulu diagrams worn in Shangqing comprise one hundred and five chapters in total, with jade writings totaling nine hundred and forty-three characters; it belongs to the thirty-one independent precious Jing of the Nüqing Four Extremes of the Left Palace of Tai Xuan. According to the regulations of the Mingke, the Shangzhen precious Fulu can release the practitioner’s physical form from the karmic sins and entangled faults of previous lives, eliminate disasters of weapons, water and fire, as well as underworld punishments such as the mountain of knives, the fire village, the twenty-four peaks, the Three Paths and Five Sufferings, carrying stones to fill the river, and the like. Wearing this Fulu, one may transcend the Eight Difficulties (eight major calamities).

Those of steadfast resolve in cultivation whose names have already been entered in the Purple Slips (Zijian, documents recording the name registers of immortals and perfected ones), but who do not yet possess the complete Great Jing, may also cultivate this Fulu independently in order to resolve the root karma of previous lives, avert disasters and calamities, extend the lifespan, and look forward in advance to attaining immortality. When receiving the Fulu separately, one may perform only a solitary covenant: offer two liang of gold and forty chi of purple-patterned silk, thereby swearing an oath to the Nine Heavens; the announcement Zhai (purification ritual) is prepared according to the regulations, after which one receives the transmission.

This covenant may also be used for transmitting various kinds of Jing, serving as a common oath. Although other Jing each have their own covenants, the Four Extremes (the divine perfected who oversee the four directions) take overall charge of the matter, and therefore this covenant can encompass numerous Jing.

The Shangqing Worn Fulu Text Black Certificate Formula is complete.

Shangqing Worn Fulu Text Yellow Certificate Formula.

The Upper Prime inspects Heaven; respectfully carry out the transmission.

This covenant may also be used for transmitting various kinds of Jing, serving as a common oath. Although other Jing each have their own covenants, the Four Extremes take overall charge of the matter, and therefore this covenant can encompass numerous Jing.

The Shangqing Worn Fulu Text Black Certificate Formula is complete.

Shangqing Worn Fulu Text Yellow Certificate Formula.

Upper Prime Inspecting Heaven Great Register Text.

Write the talismanic inscriptions in blue-green ink on a length of yellow silk nine chi long and wear it on the person. Before donning it, one should proceed to the mountain corresponding to one’s natal destiny, establish a Zhaijiao (purification ritual) to worship the Heavenly Perfected (the true immortals of the celestial realm), report to the Nine Mysterious Ones (nine generations of ancestors), and swear an oath of alliance with the Five Spirits (the spirit deities of the five directions), and only then wear it. If after nine years of cultivation one has still not attained the Dao (the Way), recopy two copies of the talismanic inscriptions according to the prescribed rules, return to the mountain to perform the Zhaijiao, and make offerings to Heaven. When the rite is finished, burn one copy and scatter the remaining ashes into the azure clouds; bury the other copy nine chi deep in the mountain corresponding to one’s natal destiny. In this manner one reports above to the Nine Heavens, below to the Five Marchmounts and numinous mountains, and in the middle to the myriad gods; it is said that one may thereby obtain eternal life.

The True Scripture of Inspecting Immortals of the Central Origin

This work is also known as the Three Origins Chapters of the Great Perfected Yin-Yang Numinous Registers. It is a secret writing of the upper realms transmitted by the Three Heavens and Nine Spirits.

Heaven and Earth possess a fixed number of great kalpas. This secret text appears only once every eight thousand kalpas. The Mysterious Terrace of the Three Origins (the divine terrace where the celestial perfected of the upper realms reside) is staffed by three hundred Direct Talisman officers and ninety-one Jade Maidens. Those who wear this writing have all the deities within the body enfeoffed, becoming Natural Jade Immortals.

The Hidden Writing of the Nine Spirits of the Three Origins Inspecting Immortal Qi of the Upper Perfected of Yujue

This is a secret text from the Square Terrace of the Western Sands. The Yellow Upper Perfected received by the Southern Pole Upper Origin is able to assist the Qi (vital energy) of the Heavenly Dao and to inspect immortal souls. Once this writing has been obtained and worn, it is said that immortal officials of the Upper Origin will descend into the courtyard; by visualizing the spirits in a quiet chamber for one hundred days one may behold the Lord of the Upper Origin, who will transmit the true scripture, after which one may naturally fly to the Palace of Highest Clarity. Without this writing one cannot cultivate the Dao or summon the Heavenly Perfected, or else calamity will follow.

The Purple Silk Writing of the Three Origins Great Lords of Inspecting Immortal Qi of Generating the Perfected of Mysterious Upper

This is a secret text from the Terrace of the Three Origins. After wearing it, enter a quiet chamber and visualize the spirit-perfected for nine days; turbid Qi then dissipates and the true Shen (spirits) naturally appear. The Three Origins Great Lords transmit the true scripture, and after nine years one is able to fly through the air. Without this writing one cannot practice the immortal Dao or summon immortal officials, or else calamity will follow.

The Most High Supreme Script for Generating the True and Inspecting Immortal Qi (vital energy): The Flying Heaven True Writ of the Purple Tenuity Palace

Only after Heaven and Earth have passed through a great kalpa will this True Writ appear in the grotto-palaces of the Five Sacred Peaks. Those who obtain and wear it should, in a quiet chamber, visualize the Three Primes (the Qi of Heaven, Earth, and Water as spoken of in Daoism) for one hundred days, reciting it with single-minded concentration and without giving rise to distracting thoughts. They will then see the True Spirits descend into their own physical form; they will also be able to command immortal officials and obtain naturally generated items. They must carefully avoid the defilements of birth and death. Without this True Writ, one cannot cultivate the immortal Dao (the Way); if one rashly summons the Heavenly Perfected, one will never attain immortality in this lifetime.

The Most High Jade Tablet of Mysterious Subtlety: The Writ of the Three Primes

This heavenly book is engraved in the Northern Chamber of the Numinous Capital; its graphs are jade characters, each one zhang square. It is guarded and upheld by seven hundred Direct-Talisman Immortals and eighty-two Jade Maidens. Wear this True Writ for one hundred days with concentrated visualization, and the Three Primes will descend into the quiet chamber; you will naturally be able to comprehend the sounds of the celestial realm. Without this True Writ, one must not presumptuously cultivate the way of the flying immortal; otherwise disaster will be incurred, seven generations of ancestors will be implicated in punishment, and one will also lose the qualification for immortality.

The Flying Heaven Tablet-Writ of the Mysterious Palace of Purple Tenuity

This True Writ is engraved upon the Terrace of the Dawn Lamp, its radiance shining through all that lies above the Nine Heavens. The Primordial Heavenly King of the Upper Palace of Great Clarity transmitted it to the Queen Mother of the West, to be used in summoning the numinous immortal officials of the Five Sacred Peaks and of the mountains and seas. Practitioners should concentrate the mind in quiet recollection; after one hundred days they will see the spirits and will naturally know the hidden names within the Nine Heavens. Wearing this writ can summon immortal officials. Without this True Writ, one must not recite the Upper Jing (scripture/classic) for Dispelling Demons, or one will oneself suffer great calamity. Be sure to take care.

The Mysterious Supreme Flying Heaven Central Script: The Writ for Inspecting Immortals

This True Writ is engraved upon the Terrace of the Three Primes. It was issued by the Master of Myriad Beginnings and then transmitted to those of the Most High, to be used in summoning immortal spirits and welcoming the Perfected. Those who receive and hold it should offer sacrifice to the Five Sacred Peaks for one hundred days and concentrate on visualizing the spirit of one body and three heads descending into their quiet chamber. Without this True Writ, one must not on the Eight Festival Days (the days in the Daoist year set aside for specific practices of cultivation and sacrifice) presumptuously seek immortality, or disaster will be incurred. Wearing it, one can communicate with the gods and the Perfected and obtain the attendance of twelve Jade Lads; what one recites can also reach up to the Nine Heavens. If one rashly divulges this writ, seven generations of ancestors will be held to account, and the Five Sacred Peaks will also be ordered to summon demonic spirits by means of Fulu (talismans and registers) to examine and interrogate the sinful souls.

The Nine Heavens Dragon Book of the Three Origins Empty Cavern is transmitted and recited by twelve Jade Youths, whose recitation reaches up to the Nine Heavens. If this book is carelessly divulged, seven generations of ancestors will be punished, and the talisman officials and demonic spirits of the Five Peaks will be commanded to examine the sinful souls.

Nine Heavens Dragon Book of the Jade Inspection Flying Mystery Text of the Three Origins Empty Cavern

This text is inscribed upon the gates of the Three Passes of the Nine Heavens and is charged with inspecting the True Persons of all the heavens. Anyone reciting the Upper Books of the Nine Heavens who has not prepared this document will be punished by the Nine Heavens’ Censors of Wickedness.

Once this text is worn, the Chancellor of the Nine Heavens will preside over summonings, inspect the primordial Qi of the celestial realms, and restrain the immortal officials. By concentrating the mind upon it for one year, one may behold the True King of the Nine Heavens; alternatively one may see a figure with nine heads riding a nine-colored phoenix descending before one. This is the manifested form of the True King of the Nine Heavens and need not be feared. The True King of the Nine Heavens governs the name registers of the Highest True Immortals. At that moment one need only face south, prostrate upon the ground, and pray to become an immortal; the books of the Nine Heavens will then be transmitted of themselves.

Without this text one must not casually recite the Great Cavern True Scripture in Thirty-Nine Chapters. Violation will cause nine generations of ancestors to be examined, and the offender will personally receive celestial punishment for breaking the prohibition.

Jade Inspection Text of the Three Origins from the Primordial Beginning Mysterious Emptiness Flying Heaven Central Book

This text was inscribed by the Heavenly King of Primordial Beginning upon the Terrace of the Golden Window and is transmitted only once in ten thousand kalpas. Upon receiving it, the Four Extremes will register the recipient’s name in Donghua. Wearing the text and cultivating with single-minded concentration for three hundred days, neither glancing aside nor allowing stray thoughts to arise, one may behold the Heavenly King of Primordial Beginning; seeing him, one’s lifespan is extended by ten thousand years.

Practitioners of the Dao who lack this text must not enter famous mountains, travel the Five Peaks, or cultivate the way of flying immortals. Otherwise the Five Peaks will refuse them, heavenly demons will injure their bodies, and great calamity will inevitably follow. Before receiving the text one must first carefully determine whether the recipient is suitable, and only then wear it, so that auspiciousness may be obtained. It must not be worn rashly, or disaster will likewise be invited; utmost caution is required.

The Nine Heavens Parents inscribed this Jing (scripture/classic) on the Phoenix Birth Terrace, guarded by eight hundred Direct-Talisman Shen (spirit) officials. Every nine thousand years the Nine Heavens open once; when they open, the radiance of the Nine Heavens appears simultaneously as nine suns in the east. This writing manifests of itself only above the southern veranda of those who have attained the Dao (the Way). If a practitioner already possesses a mysterious name and is entered in the Imperial Registers (the heavenly name-roster), the Four Perfected Ones will also descend and confer it upon the practitioner. After obtaining this text one must concentrate in Jing (essence) contemplation and settle the heart-Shen (spirit) for nine hundred days before it is possible to behold the Nine Heavens Parents. Upon seeing the Nine Heavens Parents there is no more death. If one lacks this text yet rashly repeats ten thousand times that method of summoning the higher immortals, calamity will follow, causing seven generations of ancestors to be conscripted into service, and one will oneself be unable to become an immortal. The above is found in the Sanyuan Yujian Jing (Scripture of the Jade Inspectors of the Three Primes).

Supreme Jade Dawn Commanding Demon-Spirit Pennant

Wearing this pennant (a banner used for summoning and subduing) is said to enable one to overpower the Demon-Spirit Great King commanded by the Yellow Emperor of the Center. On the dates prescribed by this Jing, enter a quiet chamber, face the Grand Year (the direction of that year’s year-god), recite the Central Melody, and hang the pennant in the center of the room; the writing on the pennant is in azure characters on yellow silk. The above is found in the Qusu Shangjing (Superior Scripture of Twisting Simplicity).

Great Foundation Jing

On the dates prescribed by this Jing, enter a quiet chamber, face the Grand Year, recite the Central Melody, and hang the pennant in the center of the room; the writing on the pennant is in azure characters on yellow silk. The above is found in the Qusu Shangjing (Superior Scripture of Twisting Simplicity).

Great Spirit Flying Jade Talisman

This is a flying talisman emblem that symbolizes yang Qi (vital energy) and yellow Jing (essence). After wearing it for nine years, golden light is said to shine from the face, and one can fly whether sitting or standing, entering straight into the Great Void (the vast emptiness). Those who cultivate the art of flying steps cannot, without this talisman, look up to ascend the Star Kui or leap beyond the Nine Mysteries. The recipient must swear an oath to Heaven with twelve feet of yellow brocade; on the day practice begins, write the talisman upon the heart, and it is said one can then exhale Qi (vital energy) to form clouds and ride the clouds in flight. The talisman is written on nine-inch yellow silk and worn on the left elbow; the Six Jia Twelve Spirits and twelve Spirit-Flying Jade Maidens will attend and protect the practitioner. The above is found in the Taishang Huiyuan Jiudao Feixing Yu Jing (Supreme Returning-Origin Nine-Path Flying-Feather Scripture).

Yellow Emperor’s Talisman for Summoning Spirits, Attracting the Perfected, and Subduing Demons

Write the talismanic script with cinnabar on a yellow wooden board nine cun wide and one chi two cun long, and place it in the center of the room. The practitioner recites scriptures indoors. Persisting for one hundred days, it is said one can converse with divine beings; persisting for two years, red rosy clouds will naturally appear in the room. If one wishes to welcome Zhenren (Perfected Ones) and celestial immortals, write the talismanic script according to the prescriptions, place the Fulu (talismans and registers) facing south, and concentrate on visualization for one hundred days. The Zhenren will then appear, and immortals will enter the chamber to transmit the Dao of the divine Zhenren (the way of immortals). The above is from the Jinzhen Yuguang Jing.

Jade Talisman of Spiritual Communication of the Red Emperor Bingding

Write the talisman with cinnabar on yellow silk and wear it on the body; then on a Bing or Ding day write it with cinnabar on yellow paper and ingest one piece facing south. Persisting for three years, it is said the Bingding Red Gui Jade Maiden (the immortal Zhenren corresponding to the southern Fire virtue and Bingding) will descend. The practitioner will then communicate with spirits, know affairs ten thousand li away in the south, summon the immortal officials of the Southern Peak, and receive food and drink supplied by the immortals. Persisting for nine years, the Red Emperor will descend into the bedchamber, riding a flying wheel of cinnabar clouds to receive the practitioner and cause them to ascend into the Shangqing Palace. The above is from the Lingfei Liujia Jing.

Chenxing Essence Talisman of the Six Origins Huoluo

If one wishes to welcome the Zhenren and immortal officials of the Northern Peak, write it in white on black paper and ingest the Fulu facing north. Concentrate on holding and practicing for one hundred days; it is said the immortal officials will arrive, the Zhenren will enter the chamber, transmit the immortal medicinal wheel (methods related to immortal cultivation and taking medicines), converse with the practitioner, and cause them to ascend into the Shangqing Palace. The above is from the Lingfei Liujia Jing.

Chenxing Essence Talisman of the Six Origins Huoluo

If one wishes to welcome the Zhenren and immortal officials of the Northern Peak, write it in white on black paper and ingest it facing north. Concentrate on holding and practicing for one hundred days; it is said the immortal officials will arrive, the Zhenren will enter the chamber, transmit the medicines of the immortals, and converse with the practitioner. If one wishes to subdue the demonic hosts of the Black Emperor, write the talisman in yellow on a black wooden board nine cun long, place it facing north, and hold and practice for one hundred days; heavenly demons will then be bound, and numerous jingguai will dissipate of themselves. Holding and practicing the imperial Zhang (talismanic writings related to the emperor) for seven years, it is said one can roam in spirit and fly, ascending to heaven in broad daylight. The above is from the Qiyuan Jing.

Yuqing Fudao Gaihua Fuluo Tian Xuanjing Chenping Yinshu Jinxuan Neiwen

The Lady of the Three Origins of Grand Simplicity received this method from the Celestial King of Primordial Beginning and in turn transmitted it to the Jade Maiden of Grand Harmony. Those who cultivate the way of the immortals should inscribe the Fulu (talisman) characters with a purple brush upon a yellow wooden tablet and place it in the northwest, thereby to annihilate the Great Demon King Haodi and his subordinates, and to summon the immortal officials of the Wilderness of Blessed Virtue and the World of Prolonged Worthies in the northwest. After twelve years of practice, the Jade Maiden of the Upper Palace will descend to one’s bedchamber and transmit the true way of the immortals.

Alternatively, one may inscribe the talismanic characters with a purple brush upon yellow patterned silk and wear it upon the person, then proceed to the World of Prolonged Worthies in the northwest. In this way the myriad spirits will compose their bearing, and the Great Demon King will kowtow in salute and come forth to welcome one. One will then be able to ride upon flying clouds and feathered canopies, roaming through the Palace of Jade Purity (Yuqing). This method derives from the Scripture of the Hidden Writings of Jade Purity (Yuqing Yinshu Jing).

The Jade Text of the Northern Emperor Guangling for Annihilating Demons and Slaying Ghosts

This talismanic text was transmitted by the High Supreme Three Heavens and is guarded by twenty-six Jade Maidens of Grand Mystery. It is also known as the “Jade Register of the Awe-Inspiring Spirit,” and is the talisman worn by the Demon-Dispelling King of Jade Purity.

To slay the ghosts corresponding to Ren days and Gui days, one should write the talismanic characters with an azure brush upon yellow silk, one chi two cun in length and three cun two fen in width. On a Ren day the talisman is placed at the central Wu position; on a Gui day it is placed at the Ji position. One then holds the breath for twelve respirations, knocks the teeth thirty-six times, and recites the invocation:

“Heaven collapses and the earth quakes; the four seasons gather and withdraw the radiance. The Five Phases (Wuxing) urge on the examination and verification, inspecting and adjudicating the ten directions. The Celestial Emperor manifests his position; the Imperial Elder issues from his chamber. Charged by the mandate of the High Supreme to campaign and chastise, wherever the prestige reaches there is nowhere to take shelter. First slay the wicked among the ghosts, then cut down all the ferocious. Of a thousand kinds of demons and ten thousand calamities, none fail to submit. All is as this jade text shows: flowing bells shake the eight directions, light interweaves and bursts forth, and the mountains likewise crumble. Receiving the celestial mandate and following the will of Heaven, one’s merit equals that of Boshi.”

The knocking of the canine teeth, the holding of the breath, and the placement of the talisman according to the directional positions of the day’s heavenly stem are all Daoist ritual procedures recorded in this passage.

After completing the ritual methods, when concluding the practice one draws in Qi (vital energy) and swallows it twelve times. Cultivating in this manner for twelve days, ghosts and demons will be eradicated and the host of sprites will lose their Jing (essence). Inscribe the talisman on the right upon yellow silk, wear it on the person, and as one travels throughout the world the ten thousand ghosts will scatter of their own accord while a thousand demons conceal their traces. Persist for twelve years and one will be able to command nine Green-Waisted Jade Maidens (goddesses who serve the immortal perfected). The foregoing talisman formulas come from the Yuqing Yinshu Jing (Scripture of the Hidden Book of Jade Clarity).

Shangqing Formula of the Yellow Certificate for Wearing Talisman Texts