《上清太上九真中经绛生神丹诀》

First close your eyes and observe your body in your mind. If you feel that the Shen (spirits) within the body are in any way lacking, sit upright, close your eyes, clench both fists and rest them on your knees, concentrate on visualizing the various Shen, and recite the incantation according to the method already given. Visualizations of the Shen at dawn and at midday are likewise performed while sitting upright and should not be seen by others. The entire process takes place through inner visualization; visualize the Shen in the mind before closing the eyes.

At midnight on the first day of every month, after visualizing the Shen, next visualize white Qi (vital energy) appearing in both eyes, the size of a hen’s egg, floating before you. After a moment the white Qi transforms into two bright mirrors, each nine cun in diameter. Use these bright mirrors to inspect from front and back the twenty-four body Shen throughout your entire body. Once you have seen them clearly, after a short interval silently recite in your heart:

“Great Bright Treasure Mirror, dividing and transforming into ten thousand forms, illuminating the original Shen, subduing and driving back ten thousand demons, enabling me to fly and ascend to Shangqing (the clear and numinous immortal realm spoken of in Daoism), wearing a cloud kerchief and gauze robe, commanding a thousand spirits, sealing mountain peaks, summoning and moving rivers.”

After reciting, perform the practice once every five days. This is what is called using the treasure mirror to cover and inspect, verifying the Jing (essence) Qi within the body and restraining and gathering the five Shen (the Shen within the human body). Regular cultivation of this practice prevents disaster and ultimately ranks one among the high immortals.

The Dao (Way) of Brushing the Youth is a method that enables one to see clearly the five Shen of the Emperor Lord together with the twenty-four body Shen inside the body. It is performed at noon on the Gengwu day within the Jiazi decade. Take one sheng of clear water, drop one zhu of true elixir (a Daoist alchemy term, here referring to the elixir employed) into the water and stir it counterclockwise twenty-one times, then recite the incantation:

“Mysterious and wondrous flowing water together with vermilion saliva, first emit bright light in the eight directions; the numerous Shen within the body appear together, enabling me to behold their forms and appearances, to see through ten thousand li, reaching directly to the Nine Numina. The Emperor Lord reflects upon the youth, enabling me to obtain superior Jing Qi.”

After reciting, face east and wash the eyes fourteen times with this water. Regular practice enables one to see the ten thousand Shen distinctly. The incantation is uttered in a faint voice; when washing the eyes, face the direction of the monthly establishment (the direction determined by the earthly branch of the current month) while remaining oriented toward the east.

At midnight, choose a quiet environment; sitting or lying down are both acceptable. Settle the body, purify and still the mind and Shen (spirit), relax the breathing so that the spirit is at peace, then slightly close the eyes and visualize inwardly.

First visualize the Western Tai Bai star (Venus, Metal of the Five Phases) located above the two eyebrows on the face, a place called the Jade Pendant Purple Palace (Yudang Zique). From about one cun above the eyebrows inward about one cun is the location of the Jade Pendant Purple Palace. On Yang days (odd-numbered days) visualize the star above the left eyebrow, and on Yin days (even-numbered days) visualize it above the right eyebrow.

Next visualize the Northern Chen star (Mercury, Water of the Five Phases) located in the Imperial Minister Mysterious Palace (Diqing Xuangong) at the center of the head. From the bridge of the nose upward to about five fen in front of the hairline, then inward about one cun, is the position of the Imperial Minister Mysterious Palace. On Yang days visualize the star above the left eyebrow, and on Yin days above the right eyebrow.

Then visualize the Eastern Wood star (Jupiter, Wood of the Five Phases) located at the Cavern Pass Vermilion Terrace (Dongguan Zhutai). From the outer side of the eye backward about one cun, then inward about one cun, is the Cavern Pass Vermilion Terrace. On Yang days visualize the star behind the left eye, and on Yin days behind the right eye.

Next visualize the Southern Yinghuo star (Mars, Fire of the Five Phases) located at the Jade Gate Flower Chamber (Yumen Huafang). At the inner corners of both eyes inward about five fen is the Jade Gate Flower Chamber. On Yang days visualize the star at the inner corner of the left eye, and on Yin days at the inner corner of the right eye.

Finally visualize the Central Zhen star (Saturn, Earth of the Five Phases) located at the Golden Casket Yellow Chamber Long Valley (Jinkui Huangshi Changgu), that is, at the exact center of the philtrum below the nose inward about two fen, with the star seeming to hang above.

After the visualization is complete, imagine these five stars each returning to their corresponding positions and gradually becoming manifest. One should feel them emitting radiance and five-colored vapors of Qi (vital energy) that penetrate the entire body and illuminate both inside and outside; within the body it is as if a mild stellar Jing (essence) and Qi (vital energy) comes steaming and moistening. Then knock the teeth five times, swallow the saliva in the mouth twenty-five times, and then softly recite the incantation:

Within the purple high palaces, perform inner visualization (neiguan, contemplating within the mind) of the Emperor Lord (Dijun). The Qi (vital energy) of Taiyi intermingles and blends, forming the gate of the Purple Chamber. Inside the gate a brilliant radiance shines forth; this is the Three Origins (Sanyuan). The Three Origins condense Jing (essence) and Qi, thereby giving birth to five deities. The precious light of these deities spreads and illuminates, its rays rushing straight toward the dawn; Jing and Qi accumulate and transform, changing into an elderly man.

The elderly man wears a plain-colored crown, clad in a green cape and a crimson skirt, with flowing bells at his right and a tiger-patterned ornament at his left. He holds the Heavenly Net (Tiangang), dispersing crimson flying-dawn Qi, treading upon a floral canopy (Huagai), and exhaling light from his mouth to refine and nourish the bodily form. The Three Scenes (Sanjing, the three kinds of luminous or sacred visages spoken of in Daoism) protect and sustain me, enabling me to attain the Dao and become authentic; I nourish the hun souls and restrain the po souls, riding the wind to fly up and become an immortal.

After reciting the incantation, visualize the elderly man wearing a green cape and crimson skirt, with flowing bells on the right and a tiger-patterned ornament on the left, holding the Heavenly Net, dispersing crimson flying-dawn Qi, treading on the floral canopy, and exhaling light to refine and nourish the bodily form. Pray that the Three Scenes protect and sustain oneself so that one attains the Dao and becomes authentic, nourishes the hun and po, and rides the wind to ascend as an immortal.

After the incantation is finished, swallow saliva three times and knock the teeth three times. If one can constantly practice this method for fifteen years, the elderly man of the Southern Extreme, Danling Shangzhen, will come to receive one riding a green cloud chariot; the elderly man of the Western Extreme, Suling Ziqi, will come riding a yellow wind chariot; the elderly man of the Northern Extreme, Xuanshang Xianhuang, will come riding a dark-colored divine dragon; the elderly man of the Eastern Extreme, Fuyang Gongzi, will come riding a cyan palanquin; the Central Origin elderly man, Zhongyang Shangxuanzi, will come riding a curved-dawn canopy. After the five elderly men assemble, they rise together into the Purple Void (Zixu, the purple heavenly realm).

This method must not be practiced intermittently, nor may inner visualization be performed carelessly. It is taboo to tread upon filthy things, and one should avoid dwelling mixed among others; incense should be burned constantly and bathing performed diligently. Violating these requirements causes the cultivation to decline, while following them in practice allows one to fly up and become an immortal. After the visualization is complete, if there are other wishes in the heart they may be spoken immediately after the incantation. Visualize the five stars gathering in one place, located two cun below the nape of the neck, covering an area of about one square cun; the stars are the size of pellets, their light illuminating the entire body.

On the first and fifteenth of each month, as well as on the seventh, ninth, thirteenth, seventeenth, twentieth, and twenty-fifth days, at the hour of cockcrow, visualize the images of the sun and moon and place them within the Hunfang Liuhe (Chamber of the Hun and the Six Harmonies). The Hunfang Liuhe is located in the empty space above the outer corners of both eyes, slightly higher than the eyebrows. Press and knock the teeth; the four spots you feel moving under your hands mark its position. This site lies about one inch inward and measures roughly nine fen square; it is called the Mansion of the Hunfang Liuhe.

Visualize the sun on the left and the moon on the right so that their radiance illuminates the entire body, as though they occupy their positions with perfect clarity. Close the eyes and concentrate fully on the visualization, omitting nothing. When finished, knock the teeth seven times, swallow saliva nine times, and softly recite the incantation:

“Supreme Bright Numinous Dawn, nine degrees of dense azure, summon the rosy clouds and store the radiance, irrigate and refine the five forms, palatial chariot of the Six Harmonies, seven spirits attuned and balanced, grant that I fly as an immortal, my hun ascending to Shangqing.”

After reciting the incantation, if one persists in the practice for fifteen years, the Jade Emperor will send a three-plain carriage (the vehicle of the immortals) to come and receive the adept. During cultivation one should keep a rooster that crows well so that it may announce the dawn punctually. If the written petitions are concealed while this art is performed, the moment when sun and moon shine upon each other will be missed. The Lady of the Southern Pole received this method from the Supreme High Perfected; it is called the Hidden Dao of Dual Scenery, Winged Form, Concealing and Preserving the Mysterious. Only those who truly possess immortal bones may hear this scripture.

The Inner Chapter of the Supreme One’s Hidden Dao of Returning to the Origin for Erasing the Registers of Sins

The inner observation of the Supreme Jade Perfected’s Hidden Origin should be practiced on the six Ding days (days whose heavenly stem is Ding) when vital Qi is flourishing. At this time the Qi of the Heavenly Origin spreads forth and becomes manifest, the embryonic womb congeals and grows firm; the seven po report upward and the three hun record transgressions. Those who have opposed their ancestors and accumulated sins must employ the corresponding methods to eliminate karmic offenses and be released from faults. Practitioners of this method of the Dao are those who seek to become immortals.

On the Dingmao day of every Jiazi xun at midnight, sit upright on the bed in the bedroom facing north with both hands joined and knock the teeth seven times. Then look upward and visualize the seven stars of the Big Dipper (Beidou) so that they appear bright in the north. After a while, recite softly: “The first Tai star, named Xuanshu Yangming, is the hun-spirit of the Tianzhu star, belonging to the Shangyuan Jiujun.” Recite this incantation seven times, then continue: “May from my seven generations of ancestors down to myself all obvious sins and hidden faults be eliminated; may I find fulfillment wherever I go and have all matters proceed smoothly; may I be able to fly-step the seven yuan and connect with Heaven; may my name be recorded in the Danjian (the immortal register of Daoism) and my lifespan extended for a thousand years and ten thousand years.” After reciting, visualize the seven stars of the Big Dipper flying down from the sky, entering the mouth and reaching the heart. Then visualize that all obvious sins and hidden mistakes from the seven generations of ancestors to oneself are eliminated, that all wishes are fulfilled and all matters go smoothly, that one can fly-step the seven yuan and connect with Heaven, that the name is recorded in the Danjian, and that the lifespan is long. Finally visualize the starlight spreading throughout inside and outside, making everything clear and bright, and concentrate the spirit in repeated visualization. This is called “Jiechen Jieluo,” meaning to make the inside and outside empty and bright, revealing the superior Dao.

On the Dingchou day of every Jiaxu xun at midnight, sit upright on the bed in the bedroom facing north with both hands joined and knock the teeth seven times. Then look upward and visualize the seven stars of the Big Dipper so that they become bright in the north. After a while, recite softly: “The second Yuan star, named Beitai Yinjing, is the hun-spirit of the Tianxuan star, belonging to the Shangyu Jiujun.” Recite this incantation seven times, then recite:

May the High Heaven eliminate the yang sins and yin transgressions I have committed from seven lifetimes ago until this present life, so that the Six Qi (vital energies) become full and abundant and the Four Shen (spirits) unite as one and return to vacuous stillness; that I may fly across the Seven Origins, have my name registered in the Jade Books, ascend to the immortal realm of Purple Clarity, ride the void and command Qi (vital energy), come and go freely without obstruction, with every action auspicious and in harmony with the Heavenly Dao (the Way).

After the recitation, visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper (Beidou) flying down from heaven, entering the mouth and passing straight into the lungs, causing the Four Shen (spirits) to unite as one and return to vacuous stillness. Then visualize yourself flying across the Seven Origins, your name registered in the Jade Books, ascending to the immortal realm of Purple Clarity, riding the void and commanding Qi, coming and going freely without obstruction, every action auspicious and in harmony with the Heavenly Dao. Next visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper entering the lungs so that inner and outer become clearly visible and the Five viscera stand out distinctly. When visualizing the stars entering the mouth, let the eyes feel the radiance shining upon them, the light scattering and filling the oral cavity; a slight warmth in the mouth is the verification that the stellar Jing (essence) and Qi have entered.

Each time one visualizes the Seven Origins (the stellar spirits associated with Beidou cultivation) one must also contemplate the Way of the Nine Dawns (Jiuchen zhi dao), a Shangqing cultivation method. When sleeping do not share a bed with others, and do not mix clothing with others. Men and women resting together on the same bed will be entered in the sin registers of the Northern Xuanming divine office. Violating the taboos of impurity invites disaster and may even result in being recorded in the ledgers of hell. Teachers and friends who temporarily occupy the same space because they receive the same lineage transmission do not constitute a violation.

On the Ding Hai day within the Jia Shen xun (the ganzhi sequence beginning with Jia Shen), at midnight sit upright on the bed in the sleeping chamber facing north, join the hands, and knock the teeth seven times. Then gaze upward at the seven stars of the Northern Dipper and visualize them appearing brightly in the north. After a moment softly recite the incantation:

“Third True Star, Upper True of the Nine Extremes, Po Jing of the Heavenly Mechanism, Nine Lords of Upper Simplicity.”

After invoking this seven times, then recite the incantation saying:

I pray that all capital crimes, faults, accumulated evil deeds, and concealed matters committed by myself from my seven ancestral grandparents down to the present, as well as any offenses against or violations of the Three Officials of Heaven, Earth, and Water (the Heavenly Official, Earthly Official, and Water Official of Daoism), may all be eliminated together. May my eyes be bright, able to see through things and discern the obscure and subtle; may I fly among the Seven Lords, have my name registered in Shangqing (the Qingwei heavenly realm of Daoism), command the myriad spirits, ascend the Jade Court, and ride the clouds through the void. May the aforementioned sins all be eliminated, ultimately uniting with Heaven.

After the ritual ends, visualize in the mind the seven stars of the Northern Dipper flying down from heaven, entering the mouth and reaching directly to the liver, causing light to illuminate the five viscera throughout, making interior and exterior thoroughly transparent. Then face north and bow twice, and swallow the saliva nine times; one may also rise to perform the bows.

On the Dingyou day of the Jiawu decade, at midnight, sit on the bed in the bedchamber, facing north, join both hands together, and knock the teeth seven times. Then raise the head and visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper, causing them to appear brightly in the north. After a while, softly recite the invocation:

“The Fourth Niu Star, Shigen, Xuanming, Tianquan, Pojing, Shangxu, Jiujun.”

Recite this invocation seven times, then recite the incantation:

Sit on the bed in the bedchamber, facing north, join both hands together, and knock the teeth seven times. Then raise the head and visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper, causing them to appear brightly in the north. After a while, softly recite the invocation:

“The Fourth Niu Star, Shigen, Xuanming, Tianquan, Pojing, Shangxu, Jiujun.”

Recite this invocation seven times, then recite the incantation:

I pray that all sins of ingratitude and lack of De (Virtue/Power), unkindness and unfiliality, as well as secretly committing evil, committed from seven generations down to myself, no matter their number, may all be completely extinguished. May I ingest and absorb Jing (essence) and Qi (vital energy), causing cultivation to increase day by day; fly up to the Seven Origins (the heavenly realm associated with the seven stars of the Northern Dipper), have the name registered in Taixuan (the Youxuan heavenly realm of Daoism), ranked above the Jade Emperor, ride the clouds into the Nine Heavens, command the spirits and drive the numinous Qi, and thereby cause the sun and moon also to renew their brightness.

After the ritual ends, visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper flying down from heaven, entering the mouth and reaching directly to the spleen, causing light to penetrate thoroughly and illuminate the five viscera. Then swallow the saliva fourteen times.

On the Dingwei day of the Jiachen decade, at midnight sit on the bed in the bedroom facing north, join the hands, and knock the teeth seven times. Then raise the head and visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper (Beidou), causing them to shine brightly in the north. After a moment, softly recite the incantation so that the starlight becomes thoroughly luminous and illuminates the five viscera. When finished, swallow the saliva fourteen times.

On the Dingwei day of the Jiachen decade, at midnight sit on the bed in the bedroom facing north, join the hands, and knock the teeth seven times. Then visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper shining brightly in the north. After a moment, softly recite:

“Fifth Gang Star, Tianping Danyuan, Yuheng Poling Shangjun, Shangxuan Jiuhuangjun.”

Recite this incantation seven times. Then continue:

“May I eliminate the filth and sins within and without the body from seven generations past down to the present life, together with the countless hidden faults numbered in the tens of thousands of billions that are recorded in the passes of the netherworld, causing them all to be eradicated. May the body be filled with primordial Qi so that this Qi fills the Yellow Court (Huangting, the inner landscape of the body associated with spleen and stomach) and settles in the stomach; may a name-register be left in Taisu (the realm of primordial purity and simplicity in Daoism), riding rosy clouds into the Purple Palace (Zigong, abode of the immortals), with Jade Maidens attending on the right and Jade Youths guarding on the left, shining together with the sun and moon and ranked among the True Kings.”

After reciting, visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper flying from the center of heaven, entering the mouth and reaching the stomach, so that their light illuminates the five viscera and makes them distinguishable. Then swallow the saliva eighteen times.

On the Dingsi day of the Jiayin decade, at midnight sit on the bed in the bedroom facing north, join the hands, and knock the teeth seven times. Then visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper shining brightly in the north. After a moment, softly recite:

“Sixth Ji Star, Mingji Beiji, Kaiyang Poling, Shangdan Huangxu Jiujun.”

Recite this incantation seven times and then continue with further recitations. The original text ends at this point.

May one pray to eradicate all the various evil deeds and sins committed from the seven generations of ancestors of so-and-so down to this present lifetime, including acts of treachery and wickedness, rebellion and insubordination, stirring up disorder, and reckless behavior. May these sins, once recorded in the ledgers of the celestial court offices, be completely extinguished; may all diseases be healed and the body’s qi (vital energy) become harmonious and stable; may one’s name be entered in the Immortal Terrace, engraved in the Shangqing immortal registers, and may one thereby command the myriad spirits and fly through the realm of the Nine Luminaries.

After the prayer is completed, visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper flying down from heaven, entering the mouth and proceeding straight to the kidneys, so that the kidneys become brightly illuminated and transparent and one can clearly visualize the five viscera. When the visualization is finished, swallow the saliva fourteen times. On yang days visualize the starlight stored in the left kidney; on yin days, in the right kidney: the first day is yang, the second day is yin.

In cultivating this method one must especially avoid contact with blood and filth, foul odors, and any negligence or irreverence, and also refrain from eating meat, fishy foods, and pungent spices. Violation of these taboos implicates ancestors up to seven generations as well as oneself; after death one will sink to become a ghost of the lower realms, and one’s name will be struck from the immortal registers of the Heavenly Emperor.

On the night of the last day of each month, that is, as it is about to turn into the first day of the following month, before the cock crows, sit on the bed in the bedchamber facing east, hands crossed, body upright and level, and knock the teeth seven times. Then look upward and visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper so that they appear brightly before one. After a moment, softly recite the incantation:

“Seventh Gate Star, Mysterious Yang Heavenly Pass, Yaoguang Great Illumination, Most High Jade Emperor Dao Lord.”

Intone these phrases seven times, then proceed to recite the following incantation.

May Heaven grant that the hidden faults and sins I have committed from seven lifetimes past down to this present life be eliminated, together with the karmic debts incurred by violating the five punishments and recorded in the registers of the ghost officials of the Northern Emperor (Beidi); may the spirits within the body that number in the tens of millions of billions and that record these sins likewise be eliminated. May my Shen-Qi (spirit and vital energy) penetrate the four directions so that I may vanish instantly even while seated, my ears hear sounds from the farthest distances, and my eyes emit purple radiance; may my name be inscribed upon the Taisu jade registers so that I may inspect ghostly forms together with the celestial spirits; may my name be registered under the Emperor Lord (Dijun), my lifespan illumined by the five bright divine lights, that I may fly among the Seven Origins (Qiyuan) and dwell in peace in the Purple Court (Ziting).

After the ritual is completed, visualize the seven stars of the Beidou (Northern Dipper) descending from heaven, entering the mouth directly and then passing from the mouth into the pupils, their radiance illuminating both eyes so that interior and exterior become naturally transparent, and visualize the five viscera clearly. On yang days visualize the stars entering the left pupil; on yin days visualize them entering the right pupil.

On Liujia days (days whose heavenly stem is Jia), at midnight when the living Qi arises, lie or sit quietly on the bed in the bedchamber, the head facing any direction. Form the Wogu (grasping-firmly) mudra with both hands—the cultivation gesture of clenching the fists and gathering the fingers—close the breath, concentrate the spirit and wait a moment, then knock the teeth nine times. Next visualize the nine stars of the Beidou appearing brightly above the crown of the head, their radiances reflecting upon one another, one star positioned in front of the Dipper’s handle. Then softly recite the incantation:

“The Eighth Emperor Star, High Supreme Jade Emperor Spirit, Primordial Lord of the Eight Sceneries (Bajing Yuanjun), Nine Honored Great Star, Spirit of the Taiwei Jade Emperor Lord, Primordial Lord of the Taisu Seven Dawns.”

Recite this incantation nine times, then recite the following incantation:

May one pray for the elimination of sins on behalf of a certain person’s nine generations of ancestors, parents, and down to the person themselves. Whether these be great crimes or minor faults at mounds, mountains, water sources and the like, charges recorded in the registers of the dead, secretly committed ferocious deeds, concealed wickedness and deception, even countless varieties of transgression; whether offenses listed under the name of the Ghost Emperor of Fengshan, or capital entries recorded in the black registers of the Nine Origins Taiji (Supreme Ultimate) Perfected of the North (the ledgers that record sins)—all these we pray that the Nine Origins Supreme Emperor Venerable Jade Mysterious Lord eliminate one by one. May they fly-ascend the Seven Paths, mount Yuqing (Jade Clarity), roam the Great Origin, be born riding the morning radiance, proceed north to the banquet of the Eight Purities, shine together with the sun and moon, preside over the audience of the imperial consorts, and command the myriad spirits.

After the prayer recitation is finished, further visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper descending from the midst of heaven, entering straight into one’s own Niwan Palace (the upper Dantian in the head), the Purple Chamber, illuminating the Niwan and causing the light to penetrate through the five viscera of the entire body. Let purple luminous Qi (vital energy) arise both inside and outside the body, filling it luxuriantly and abundantly, as if clearly visible. When the visualization is complete, swallow the saliva in the mouth three times, nine swallows each time.

If practicing in the chamber on the Six Jia days or the last day of the month, visualize the seven stars of the Northern Dipper shining into the Niwan, penetrating the five viscera, causing purple luminous Qi to arise inside and outside, filling it luxuriantly and abundantly, as if clearly visible. When the visualization is complete, swallow saliva three times, nine swallows each time.

If the Six Jia days, last days of the month, and Six Ding days fall close together in scheduling, the visualizations and practices may interfere with one another; they may be adjusted in sequence and arranged as circumstances require, without needing to be performed frequently in immediate succession. Other matters should be treated in the same way, provided they are properly arranged according to the true method. In this manner the Supreme One’s Way of Returning to the Origin and Atoning for Sins is completed.

The Supreme One sealed the secret methods of the days of the Five Penetrations within the jade caskets of the Five Sacred Mountains, and stored the Hidden Way of Returning to the Origin in the Palace of the Nine Mornings. After cultivating the Five Penetrations one should further cultivate Returning to the Origin: the Five Penetrations begin from the Imperial Way, while Returning to the Origin opens at the close of the Mysterious Way. Therefore those who practice the Five Penetrations and perform the Seven Origins Returning Way must not consume bloody foods, nor come into contact with corpses or other defilements; those who violate this will receive punishment from the Great Mystery.

Wutong is the auspicious day of gathering established by Taishang (the honorific for the highest deity in Daoism); Huiyuan is the day of renewal and restoration by Taishang. If one does not know the days of Wutong, one cannot release sins or eliminate evil karma; if one does not know the hidden Dao (the Way) of Huiyuan, one cannot have one’s name inscribed in the registers of the Shangzhen (high-ranking Perfected Immortals).

On these days one should constantly contemplate auspicious matters and confess faults to the inner Shen (spirits) of one’s own body. In this way, it is said, one can be liberated from the entanglements of seven lifetimes and break free from the bonds of physical form and name. These matters must not be revealed to the immortals of the Nine Palaces.

Those who practice the methods of the Cavern Chamber (Dongfang) and Purple Chamber (Zifang), or who visualize the Nine Dawns (Jiuchen) and Seven Origins (Qiyuan)—the stellar spirits of Daoism—should, upon first awakening, just as they lie down to sleep while regulating the breath, and after finishing a meal, first softly recite this incantation:

“Five Stars Five Penetrations, Six Harmonies Purple Chamber, Returning Origin Hidden Dao, Opening and Falling Seven Dawns. That which generates the hun soul is the Mysterious Father; the Father transforms into One and becomes Shen. That which generates the po soul is the Mysterious Mother; the Mother transforms into Two and produces the physical form. That which governs my sinews and bones is the Gongzi; that which nourishes my Jing (essence) and Qi (vital energy) is Baiyuan. May I enjoy long life and enduring vision, fly up as an immortal, and ascend to the Ten Heavens.”

After reciting the incantation, do not let others hear its sound. This is Taishang’s secret spell, used to drive away evil Qi, replenish the Shen, and ensure that one never again suffers drowsiness or fatigue throughout life.

The Taishang Nine Perfected Imperial Lord Nine Yin Mixing Unrestrained Scenery Myriad Transformations Hidden Heaven Jing (scripture)

The Imperial Lord’s Nine Yin Jing states that those who wish to transform their bodily form, divide the body into many places, conceal themselves in the eight directions, hide body and shadow, enter the void, operate in the nether darkness, summon the myriad things, and subdue evil ghosts and demons should frequently observe fasting and purification and devote themselves single-mindedly to the Imperial Lord’s Nine Yin method.

The first star palace is named Taishang Palace. Within it resides an inner consort of the Imperial Lord who oversees the arts of transformation and concealment, escaping from within primordial Qi, hiding form and shadow, entering the void and netherworld, summoning the myriad things, and subduing evil ghosts and demons. Her name is Taiyi Fada, courtesy name Xingzhengfu; she wears a yellow brocade cape and a cinnabar-blue flying skirt, her hair in a drooping cloud coiffure.

The second star palace is named Zhongyuan Palace. Within it resides an inner concubine of the Imperial Lord who oversees the nurturing of the fetal origin and the transformation of bodily form. Her name is Taiyi Sanweng, courtesy name Luozhuying; she wears a blue-green brocade cape and a green feather-patterned flying floral skirt, likewise with a drooping cloud coiffure.

The third star is called the “Zhenyuan Guan.” Within the palace resides a Sovereign Lord, namely the Upper Origin Elixir Mother who oversees the “Six Escapes and Seven Concealments.” She is named Taiyi Lingyi, courtesy name Zhongshuangzhao. She wears a cyan brocade cape paired with a magnificent long skirt embroidered with feather patterns, her hair arranged in a drooping cloud bun.

The fourth star is called the “Niuyou Guan.” Within the palace resides a Sovereign Lord, namely the Middle Origin Inner Consort who can conceal her form and gather in her radiance. She is named Taiyi Qilie, courtesy name Hengdanpan. She wears a purple brocade cape paired with a yellow magnificent feather skirt, her hair arranged in a drooping cloud bun.

The fifth star is also called the “Niuyou Guan.” Within the palace resides a Sovereign Lord, namely the Middle Origin Inner Consort who can conceal her form and gather in her radiance. She is named Taiyi Qilie, courtesy name Hengdanpan. She wears a purple brocade cape paired with a yellow magnificent feather skirt, her hair arranged in a drooping cloud bun.

The fifth star is called the “Gangshen Gong.” Within the palace resides a Sovereign Lord, namely the Great Lady of the Dipper who can transform her body and alter appearances. She is named Taiyi Yushu, courtesy name Chouqiulan. She wears a vermilion brocade cape paired with a purple-cyan long skirt, her hair arranged in a drooping cloud bun.

The sixth star is called the “Jiming Gong.” Within the palace resides a Sovereign Lord, namely the Middle Lady of the Dipper who can conceal her traces and disperse her many forms. She is named Taiyi Qijing, courtesy name Baodingling. She wears a vermilion brocade cape paired with a cyan embroidered long skirt, her hair arranged in a drooping cloud bun.

The seventh star is called the “Guanhui Gong.” Within the palace resides a Sovereign Lord, namely the Young Lady of the Dipper who can separate out a shadow-body and transform into ten thousand forms. She is named Taiyi Yuhei, courtesy name Tianfanshu. She wears a cinnabar brocade cape paired with a cyan magnificent feather skirt, her hair arranged in a drooping cloud bun.

The eighth star is called the “Dixi Gong.” Within the palace resides a Sovereign Lord, namely the High Sovereign Left Consort of the Dipper who can manifest the sun and moon, water and fire. She is named Taiyi Shi Qizhu, courtesy name Luomaohua. She wears a purple brocade cape paired with a long skirt embroidered with feather patterns, her hair arranged in a drooping cloud bun.

At the ninth star there is recorded the attire description “qinghua feather skirt, drooping cloud bun.” Subsequently the text again repeats the record of the eighth star’s “Dixi Gong” and the content concerning Taiyi Shi Qizhu.

The ninth star is called the “Shangzun Gong.” Within the palace resides a Sovereign Lord, namely the High Sovereign Right Consort of the Dipper who can manifest metal and stone, mountains and rivers. She is named Taiyi Aitiao, courtesy name Yunyu. She wears a green brocade cape paired with a kingfisher-green feather-patterned long skirt, her hair arranged in a drooping cloud bun.

In the text, “pei” denotes a garment draped over the shoulders and back, while “yunji” refers to a hair bun that rises and falls in a cloud-like shape. The wording for the fifth, eighth, and ninth stars contains repetitions or lacunae; the foregoing transcribes their meaning according to the extant original.

In the Nine-Star Dipper Palaces of the Emperor Lord, nine Nine-Yin Consort Goddesses dwell in seclusion. When reciting the incantation, one need only pronounce their honorific titles and names; do not speak of the garments they wear or the silk sashes they drape, nor mention any bodily parts below the head.

If you know the names of the Emperor Lord’s Nine-Yin Consort Goddesses, you can ascend to the Heaven of Clear Dawn and take your place among the Perfected of Highest Clarity. It is said that in the human world as well you may be spared for an entire lifetime from the calamity of weeping over the death of relatives. The deities of Great Yin will follow and guard you, and the essences of the myriad spirits will come forth to pay homage. You will moreover be able to cause that which is dispersed to transform and coalesce, and thereby generate Heaven and Earth.

These nine Great Yin Consort Goddesses are the spirits of the Emperor Lord’s Yin Palaces. Practitioners of the Dao who carry out the methods of untying knotted bindings, receive Fulu (talismans and registers) and thereby ascend to the immortal registers, stabilize the hun and po souls, generate the Shen (spirits) within the body, guide the Qi (vital energy) and extend the Jing (essence), seeking long life: if they do not know the names of the Imperial Consorts and cannot mix the Qi of Yin and Yang according to the Nine Yin method, it is said they will never succeed in becoming immortals.

The spot one inch inward between the two eyebrows is called the Mingtang (Hall of Light), a square region one inch on each side. It is the regular dwelling of the Sovereign Lord (Dijun) and the Nine Consorts of Taiyin (Taiyin Jiufei, the nine deities associated with the Supreme Yin).

On the nights of odd-numbered days, at the time of generating Qi (vital energy) spoken of in breathing cultivation, burn incense and enter a quiet chamber. Sit or lie in any comfortable posture, close the eyes and remain still for a moment, then visualize the Sovereign Lord seated at ease in the Purple Chamber of Taiji (Taiji, the Supreme Ultimate; Zifang being the immortal abode named in the Jing or scripture). Next visualize the Five Shen (spirits) of Taiyi (Taiyi Wushen, the five deities governed by the Great One) located within the Six Harmonies (Liuhe, above and below together with the four directions), the Nine Stars of the Northern Dipper situated in the heart, and the Nine Consorts of Taiyin residing in the Mingtang.

Then visualize the Taiwei Child Gan Jingjing standing before the Sovereign Lord, holding the five talismans in his left hand and the five registers in his right; next visualize the practitioner standing behind the Child. Visualize the Nine Consorts of Taiyin emerging from the Mingtang and lining up in sequence horizontally behind the practitioner. Then visualize the Five Shen of Taiyi rising from the Six Harmonies, entering the Purple Chamber of Taiji, and lining up in sequence horizontally behind the Nine Consorts of Taiyin.

In the middle of this passage the Jing repeats the visualization of the Child, the talismans and registers, and the practitioner’s position. When the visualizations are complete, the Sovereign Lord and the assembled deities suddenly merge into one, transforming into a single figure whose form resembles a newborn infant. He is named the Child of Impermanence (Wuchang Tongzi), style-named Jade of Transformation (Bianhua Yu). He holds the Nine Stars, bears the sun on his head, and holds the moon in his mouth. With the light of sun, moon, and Nine Stars the Child illuminates and steams the practitioner’s entire body until interior and exterior become thoroughly luminous. The practitioner feels the whole body turn bright red, as though scorched by fire, with no distinction left between inside and outside, the entire form suffused with vapor.

This is the visualization of “the Sovereign Lord, Taiyi, and the Nine Yin”: the nine yin blend and transform into various forms. After quietly observing for a moment, knock the teeth twenty-four times, swallow the saliva nine times, and then softly recite the incantation:

The divine light of the grotto-heavens reflects back upon the Purple Tenuity heavenly realm (the celestial realm spoken of in Daoism). The nine dawn deities of mysterious yin conceal themselves in the profound and dark recesses; the Lady of the Dipper and the three women scatter and transform their forms, while the divine consorts refine internally, and the myriad things are generated at once. Lightning flashes, thunder shakes, clouds and mists flow; after undergoing ninety transformations, the elixir qi rises with a green radiance. The nine goddesses of Taiyi (the Great One) cause the palaces to transform, returning to undifferentiated simplicity and purity; their forms are inconstant as they plunge into the secluded darkness. Subsequently they again shine forth in the Purple Tenuity heavenly realm.

They drape themselves in brocade capes and splendid garments, wearing purple-feather flying skirts; on the left they wear invisible Fulu (talismans and registers), on the right they fasten tiger-patterned ornaments; they ride flames, with firelight also upon their heads, holding crimson banners in their hands. Beside them are demonic deities and the winds of the eight directions, together with four scenic clouds tugging. They move freely within the principles of the heavenly realm, causing the Seven Origins (the stellar deities represented by the seven stars of the Big Dipper) to transform, veiling mountains and rivers, making the dawn deities of the five directions invert and revolve, obstructing the radiance of the sun and moon, and causing the host of stars to lose their ordinary state.

They can divide their forms, transforming into a hundred bodies and a thousand frames: entering fire they become fire, entering forests they transform into forests, dwelling in water they become water, entering mountains they become mountains. Sought-after objects suddenly arrive, summoned deities immediately appear; with a single stirring of the heart, hoped-for things arrive in an instant. The thousand kinds of myriad things can all manifest according to the intent of the mind.

The Emperor Lord (the deity venerated in the scripture) manifests within my body; the Highest Jade Dawn, Wuying and other deities dwell together with me in the luminous scene and extend throughout the four directions. Baiyuan (an inner-body spirit spoken of in Daoism) together with the various true deities jointly protect and support. Water generates heaven and earth and also nourishes my body. What I speak from my mouth follows the transformations and shifts of the mind’s intent. Jade youths hold the talismanic mandates, Jade Flowers grasp kerchiefs, divine consorts present fragrant qi, and four true deities ride together in the same carriage. All things appear in accordance with my words.

After the incantation is recited, next visualize the Year Star, Sparkling Deluder, Great White Star, Chronogram Star and Guardian Star—that is, the stars of the Five Phases (Wood, Fire, Metal, Water, Earth)—each entering the mouth together from their respective directions. Let the radiance of the five stars shine upward into the Niwan Palace (the inner spirit chamber in the head), inwardly illuminating the five viscera, and downward to the Yin Chamber (the lower inner cultivation site), rendering the entire body transparent and thoroughly clear. This is the method by which the Emperor Lord, by means of the light, reverses the Way of the Nine Yin (the cultivation path related to the netherworld and yin qi). After visualizing for a time, knock the teeth five times, swallow saliva five times, then softly recite the incantation:

The Five Stars (Wuchen, the spirits of the five planets) array themselves in a row, their radiance illuminating the five directions. Mercury can cause calamities to recede, Jupiter can bring flourishing prosperity, the Sparkling Deluder (Yinghuo, Mars) can eliminate disasters, the Great White Star (Taibai, Venus) can enable one to avoid the misfortunes of warfare, and the Stabilizing Star (Zhenxing, Saturn) guards the four quarters. Through this I obtain auspiciousness and upright firmness. The Imperial Lord carries out his teaching and transformation, causing the Nine Numina to harmonize and revolve, while Taiyin (referring to the moon or the yin qi within the moon) displays its pure and unsullied radiance. The palaces of the Nine Stars record my name upon jade tablets, registering my name-register in the palace of the Imperial Lord. I ride the power of the wind, harnessing light and shadow, soaring aloft into the great emptiness, entering and exiting the nether darkness, and roaming through the profound worlds of the ten directions. Five-colored cloud-qi (vital energy) covers all around; I can summon the Shen (spirits), command the winds, and put the myriad numina to work, guarding the Immortal Lord in the upper realm. The ritual concludes here.

This is the Imperial Lord’s Hidden Book of the Nine Yin, a secret method transmitted internally among the Nine Perfected (Jiuzhen, the true immortals of Shangqing Daoism). It speaks of the ranks of the Five Shen and the path of the Three Origins (Sanyuan: Heaven, Earth, and Humanity, or the Upper, Middle, and Lower Origins). The Yellow Elder Lord of the Center, the Purple Essence Lord of the South, the Azure Youth Lord of the East, the Supreme Lord of the North, and the Great Plain Lord of the West together circulate the qi of the Nine Yin, causing the bodily form to disperse and transform; they array the Five Stars, causing the bodily shadow to vanish. They are able to merge and transform with the myriad things; when they encounter affairs they immediately respond and take effect. They live long, perceive the hidden and subtle, and ultimately become Zhenren (Perfected Ones). If you can regularly cultivate this method, you will be able to display inexhaustible transformations, and water and fire will be generated within the body. The Dao (the Way) of the Imperial Lord’s Nine Yin is hereby concluded.

Taishang Yuchen Yuyi Racing-to-the-Sun Red Scenery Jade Text and Jielin Racing-to-the-Moon Yellow Scenery Jade Chapter

The above are the method-formulas for cultivating the Dao of racing to the sun and racing to the moon. They are secret texts treasured by the Taishang Shangqing Taiji (Supreme Ultimate) Nine Sovereigns and Four Zhenren, and are also the jade chapters of the Mysterious Void Jade Lord. Those who do not have a jade name in the Golden Pavilion, or who have not already registered their name-register at Donghua, have no affinity to hear of or see these two method-formulas. The practitioner must first observe a pure fast for a hundred days, cutting off interactions with people and daily affairs, and only then can one cultivate. After long-term cultivation, in the palaces of the sun and moon in the upper realm, one can respectively obtain fifty jade youths and fifty jade maidens to attend upon one.

The Taishang Yuyi Red Text and Jielin Yellow Chapter are the numinous secret chapters of the Taishang Jade Emperor Lord. When cultivating, one must first observe a pure fast, cutting off interactions with people and daily affairs, and only then can one cultivate. After long-term cultivation, in the palaces of the sun and moon in the upper realm, one can respectively obtain fifty jade youths and fifty jade maidens to attend upon one.

The “Supreme Yuyi Red Text” and the “Jielin Yellow Chapter” are the marvelous numinous writings secretly treasured by the Supreme Jade Emperor Lord, stored in the palaces of the Nine Heavens and the Cinnabar Jasper Terrace. Those who are not sincerely devoted to the Dao (the Way), and who do not already possess from a previous life a place in the immortal registers of the Flying Mystery Heavenly Immortals, cannot see or hear of them. Even if one has heard the titles of these chapters, they must not be discussed casually; if one falsely names them or leaks them, one will offend the Three Officials (the Heavenly Official, Earthly Official, and Water Official of Daoism), and Heaven and Earth will not forgive.

It was originally stipulated that these scriptures could be transmitted to only one person every three hundred years; after a transmission, another seven hundred years must pass before they may be transmitted again. Only if the spirits secretly indicate that someone is suitable to receive the transmission may it be given. Transmission must be carried out by master and disciple or fellow Daoists according to the established rules, in order to honor the precepts of the Mysterious Gate. To transmit the scriptures to an unsuitable person, or to fail to observe the regulations, is to leak the secrets of Heaven. Those who treat the scriptures with contempt or violate their oaths will after death become lowly ghosts, and even their ancestors of seven generations will suffer the punishment of wind and fire. Unless both parties are truly of the same Qi (vital energy), it is better to remain silent.

These two scriptures are preserved in the Cavern Terrace of Western Mystery Mountain, engraved on jade slips written in golden characters. They are also found in the Qingxu Heaven of Mount Wangwu, though not in complete form.

The original text repeats at its end the passage concerning treating the scriptures with contempt and violating the oath \ldots unless of the same Qi, one ought rather to keep silent, and the wording appears to contain errors or omissions; here, following the context, only the complete meaning of the passage is rendered.

These two Jing (scriptures) are stored in the Grotto Terrace of Xixuan Mountain, carved on jade slips and written in gold characters. The Qingxu Heaven of Wangwu Mountain also holds these two scriptures, but they are incomplete. Only the texts inscribed on the High Terrace of the Taixuan Palace, and on the gold pillars and jade walls of the North Chamber of Penglai Palace, are complete and fully assembled.

The immortals of the Central Palace and the immortals of the various palaces of Taiqing do not know what this book is about. On the door pivot of the stone chamber in the North Grotto of Mount Emei, twenty characters are carved: “Yuyi draws in the Jing (essence) of the sun; Jielin summons the Shen (spirit) of the moon. Those who attain the Dao (the Way) dwell in the Upper Palace and take their place as True Sovereigns.” Immortals of the lower realms who see these characters likewise have no idea what they mean. Among the immortals, many have never even seen the title of this scripture.

The Golden Liquid Divine Elixir (the divine elixir refined from golden liquid) is merely a relatively shallow method; it cannot enable one to fly up to Shangqing. Cultivating this path does not depend on whether a person is intelligent or foolish; it is simply that this scripture does not exist in the world. The mysterious methods of the True Officials can be transmitted only after oaths have been sworn and covenants made. Those who obtain this method and cultivate in accordance with it can take their place among the Highest True Ones, ride the Eight-Scenery Jade Wheel, tour the Nine Dawns, proceed to the Taisu Palace, pay homage to the Taiyi Sovereign, and together attend court before the Primordial Dawn.

Therefore the secret transmission says: “If you obtain the methods of Yuyi and Jielin, you can become a Shangqing Zhenren; if you do not cultivate the Superior Way, you cannot meet the Three Prime Lords.”

The Most High Yuyi: The Personal Names, Courtesy Names, and Attire of the Five Emperors in the Sun

The Green Emperor in the Sun has the personal name Yuanchangwu and the courtesy name Zhaolongtao; he wears a cyan jade-brocade cape and a pale-green flying-feather skirt, and on his head a kingfisher-plumed Supporting-Dawn crown. The Red Emperor in the Sun has the personal name Danlingzhi and the courtesy name Lühongying; he wears a crimson jade-brocade cape and a cinnabar flying-feather skirt, and on his head a Cinnabar Supporting-Spirit-Brightness crown. The White Emperor in the Sun has the personal name Haoyujiang and the courtesy name Huijinxia; he wears a plain jade-brocade cape and a white-feather flying-blossom skirt, and on his head a Vast-Spirit Supporting-Canopy crown. The Black Emperor in the Sun has the personal name Chengzhenting and the courtesy name Xuanluyan; he wears a dark jade-brocade cape and a black-feather flying-blossom skirt, and on his head a Dark-Mountain Supporting-Countenance crown.

The Yellow Emperor of the Sun (the Divine Lord Huangdi within the solar body), named Shouyifu with courtesy name Biaohuixiang, wears a yellow jade brocade cape and a yellow feather-patterned flying-flower skirt, and a Fuling purple crown on his head.

The above constitute the names, courtesy names, and attire of the five Emperor Lords within the sun. To practice the Benri Dao (the Way of Racing to the Sun), a cultivation method involving the visualization of solar deities, one ought to recite and memorize the name and courtesy name of the Yellow Emperor of the Sun while visualizing him dressed in the aforementioned garments appearing on one's left, right, front, and back.

The Lady of the Moon is the inner spirit of the moon's hun-essence, named Aixiaotaibiao. The lunar hun is paired with the Five Emperors and should likewise be recited in sequence. Knowing the name of the lunar hun enables one to avoid disasters throughout life and remain unharmed by various injuries. The Most High stores the names of the sun and moon Emperor Lords and Ladies in the Taisu Moon Palace; those who cultivate according to these methods may become immortals.

The names, courtesy names, and vestments of the Five Empresses of the Moon according to the Most High Jielin are as follows. The Green Emperor Lady of the Moon, named Eyin Zhu with courtesy name Fenyan Ying, wears a green magnificent qiong-jade brocade cape and a flying-feather skirt adorned with kingfisher dragon and phoenix patterns. The Red Emperor Lady of the Moon, named Yiyiliao with courtesy name Wanyanxu, wears a cinnabar flower-stamen patterned jade brocade cape and a phoenix-alighting flying-feather skirt with vermilion floral patterns. The White Emperor Lady of the Moon, named Lingsulan with courtesy name Fenyan Ying, wears a green magnificent qiong-jade brocade cape and a flying-feather skirt adorned with kingfisher dragon and phoenix patterns. The Red Emperor Lady of the Moon, named Yiyiliao with courtesy name Wanyanxu, wears a cinnabar flower-stamen patterned jade brocade cape and a phoenix-alighting flying-feather skirt with vermilion floral patterns. The White Emperor Lady of the Moon, named Lingsulan with courtesy name Yulianhua, wears a white lin-jade four-radiating dragon-patterned brocade cape and a flying-flower skirt adorned with white-feather luan patterns. The Black Emperor Lady of the Moon, named Jielianqiao with courtesy name Tingshujin, wears a mysterious nine-path cloud-patterned lang-jade brocade cape and a flying-flower skirt with black-feather dragon patterns. The Yellow Emperor Lady of the Moon, named Qingyingjin with courtesy name Xuandingrong, wears a yellow cloud-mountain patterned brocade cape and a magnificent embroidered skirt adorned with green-feather phoenix patterns.

All five of these ladies wear their hair in cloud-like hanging triangular topknots, with the rest of their hair cascading down to the waist.

In the moon dwell the consorts of five Imperial Lords (Dijun), each with her own name and the distinctive color of her robes. Those who wish to cultivate the Way of Soaring to the Moon (Benyue zhi dao)—visualizing and communing with the immortal perfected of the moon—should silently recite and memorize their names while visualizing them clad in their respective colored garments, arrayed to one’s left and right, front and back.

The sun likewise contains the hun souls and inner spirits of five Imperial Lords, named the Crimson Lads of Pearly Radiance (Zhujing Chitong). These solar hun souls are paired with the five consorts of the moon. During practice one must also silently recite the corresponding incantations in sequence. It is said that those who know the names of the solar hun souls will remain free of illness throughout life and be immune to all calamities. The Most High (Taishang) has secretly stored the names of the sun and moon souls in the Purple Void Royal Palace (Zixu Wanggong); those who know these names can communicate with the spirits and command their efficacious response.

Practitioners may choose according to their own circumstances whether to cultivate the Way of Soaring to the Sun and Moon; it is not necessary to practice every method. Those who wish to withdraw into a quiet chamber for cultivation should dwell where the first radiance of the rising sun and moon can be seen. Anyone still frequently occupied with worldly affairs and entangled in external matters is unsuited to this practice.

At midnight one should often burn incense, visualize the five consorts, and silently intone in the heart: “May I unite in radiance as one with the Imperial Lords, Taiyi (the Great One), and the Five Spirits.” Cultivating in this way for twenty-four years is said to enable ascent to heaven in broad daylight, without necessarily practicing the visualization of soaring to the sun. In daily life visualize the five consorts constantly at one’s sides and silently recite the traditional incantations inwardly, taking care that no one else overhears.

When practicing the Dao of “Yuyi Benri,” perform the exercise every morning just as the sun begins to rise. If the sun cannot be seen that day, carry it out in a quiet room. First gaze at the sun, then close the eyes and hold the breath ten times; next imagine swallowing ten rays of sunlight into the abdomen. Then visualize the rosy light of dawn entering the mouth and swallow it at once.

After this is done, softly recite the names of the Five Emperors (Wudi) and the name of the Moon Soul (Yuehun) three times in all. Then visualize in sequence the Five Directional Emperor Lords arriving from the sunlight: the Azure Emperor Lord (Qingdijun) on the left, the Red Emperor Lord (Chidijun) on the right, the White Emperor Lord (Baidijun) behind, the Black Emperor Lord (Heidijun) on the left hand, and the Yellow Emperor Lord (Huangdijun) on the right hand. Visualize that all Five Emperors have arrived and imagine their respective garments and colors, their forms appearing faintly, half-seen and half-hidden.

Then knock the teeth five times, swallow saliva nine times, and softly recite the incantation:

“The scene of the crimson cinnabar furnace, the perfectly integrated radiance illuminating the nine directions; as the sun first rises, its brilliance reveals vermilion Jing-qi. The Five Emperors emerge from the rosy light, illuminating all things. Contemplate the Upper Perfected (Shangzhen, the Perfected of the upper realm), making emptiness bright and even; circulate the breath and refine the radiance so that it spreads throughout the body. Let my Shen (spirit) transform and the six viscera become full; together with the Emperor Lords, Taiyi (the Great One), and Wuying, ride the crimson clouds, driving the nine chariots of the Yangsui (solar flint), rushing upward into the sun to merge with the numinous Qi of the Emperor Lords. May my lifespan equal that of heaven and earth, and may the movements of the sun and moon, the two luminaries, also serve me.”

After reciting, knock the teeth three more times, swallow saliva three times, and softly recite the incantation:

“The Jing-qi of the Moon Soul causes the marker of Xiaotai to appear brightly; grant that I may reach the heavenly realm in the depths of the sun, Dongmeng Changqiu, receive the jing chapters transmitting the methods of the divine Shen, wear the Fulu (talismans and registers) that command the nine directions, and eat the green…”

The original text breaks off at “eat the green,” and thereafter appears “again knock the teeth three times, swallow saliva three times, and again softly recite the incantation,” with the meaning of the sentences not connecting completely; therefore it cannot be translated further.

The Moon-soul Jing-Shen (Yuehun Jingshen, the visualization of the moon’s Jing, Qi, and Shen) shines upon the emblem of Xiaotai, enabling one to reach the Heaven of the Solar Grotto and the Long Mound of Dongmeng, receive the Writ of Wielding the Shen, and wear the Talisman of the Nine Possessions. One consumes the Azure Jing (Qingjing, the subtle cyan essence), drinks the florescence of cloudy azure, banquets in the City of the Eight Extremes, ascends the Terrace of Luminous Truth, sits in the Hall of Xilin, and recites the verses of Yuchen.

When the recitation is finished, visualize yourself riding the Chariot of Yangsui Crimson Clouds (Yangsui Jiangyun zhi Che, a divine vehicle named after the solar burning-mirror and crimson clouds), harnessing nine red dragons that arrive before you from the sunlight. Then ride together with the Five Emperors (Wudi) toward the sun. Forget the physical form, contemplate in stillness for a long while, and swallow saliva fourteen times. Afterward open the eyes and concentrate on the visualization; a general image will naturally arise in the mind. With prolonged practice of this method one will certainly be able to ride the light and rush to the sun. The foregoing constitutes the entirety of the Yuyi Dao (Yuyi zhi Dao, the solar-deity cultivation method).

When practicing the Jielin Benyue Dao (Jielin Benyue zhi Dao, the lunar-deity cultivation method of rushing to the moon), every evening one must face the moon and gaze upon it. On nights without a moon, slightly open the eyes in a quiet chamber, hold the breath nine times, then visualize swallowing moonlight nine times so that it enters the mouth and is ingested. Next combine the taboo names (huizi, the sacred names of the deities) of the Five Guang Ladies given earlier with the name of the Solar Soul and recite them three times.

Then visualize the Lady of the Azure Emperor (Qingdi Furen) descending from the moonlight and lining up in sequence on left and right; the method of visualization is the same as that used for the Five Emperors of the sun. Once all the deities have arrived, visualize the colors of their garments, making the images as distinct as possible. Knock the teeth nine times, swallow saliva nine times, and softly recite the incantation:

The light of Yellow Essence begins to appear. Primordial yin Qi (Yuanyin) manifests clearly within, illuminating Taixuan (the profound and mysterious realm) and opening the portals that reach in all directions. Chilly swift winds disperse as the Seven Dawn Stars (Qichen, the seven celestial luminaries) hang shining like fine jade. Yin Qi turns and returns, the three intermingle, and heaven and earth emit radiance. Purple light drifts downward, appearing above the Nine Heavens. Perfect bright light displays manifold colors as the Six Qi (the six circulating and transforming Qi of heaven and earth) interpenetrate one another.

The Ladies of the Five Emperors arrive treading clouds and riding the wind, draped in magnificent spiritual capes, wearing jade ornaments and earrings, their feathered skirts brushing the heavens. The wandering spirit flies eastward as the Qianshu (celestial divine tree) unfurls its branches like a canopy, its jade-like boughs lush and elegant. The Yunma (a miraculous figure from the scripture), after being refined and polished, assists the Wood King (lord of the eastern wood Qi). The tree roots extend ten thousand li, its dense shade sheltering me. My hun and po souls unite and transform with the divine Shen, six mysterious spiritual Qi filling body and mind. Upon returning I revert to an infant-like state, jade light illuminating me as I reverse aging and return to youth. I unite and transform with the Emperor Lord, shining equally alongside Taokang (an immortal), constantly riding the Flowing Bell Flying Cloud chariot drawn by ten flying dragons, ascending to the Palace of Brightness, ranked as Protector of the Emperor, my lifespan matching heaven and earth, inexhaustible.

The above cultivation prayer text is to be recited once more. After recitation, knock the teeth seven times, swallow the saliva seven times, then softly chant the incantation:

Spirit of the Sun’s hun, Pearl Scenery Red Child, please allow me to travel west to the Gate of the Six Collars, enter the Harmonious Dawn Jade Palace and the Eight Scenery Upper Chamber of the Eight Strings Plain Mound, obtain and wear the Talisman of Ten Brightnesses, wear the Seal of Flowing Stars and Night Light; sit in the Hall of Great Harmony, ascend the Terrace of Seven Spirits, drink the Moon Essence Paste, consume Yellow Jade and Purple Essence, recite the Chapter of the High Supreme, chant the verses of the Perfected of Jade Dawn.

After the incantation is complete, visualize the Flowing Bell Flying Cloud chariot carrying ten yellow dragons coming before me from the moonlight. Then visualize myself uniting with the talisman and seal, sitting in the Hall of Great Harmony, ascending the Terrace of Seven Spirits, drinking the Moon Essence Paste, consuming Yellow Jade and Purple Essence, reciting the Chapter of the High Supreme, chanting the verses of the Perfected of Jade Dawn.

After reciting the incantation, visualize the chariot of flowing bells and flying clouds (a divine vehicle that carries people in flight) drawn by ten yellow dragons, arriving before you from within the moonlight. Next, visualize yourself boarding the chariot together with the Five Ladies and racing toward the moon. Allow yourself to forget the physical body and quietly visualize for a long time; then swallow the saliva in your mouth thirty times. After completing this, open your eyes and concentrate your thoughts with focused attention, and faint images will naturally appear. Those who can practice this over a long period will surely be able to race toward the moon riding upon the luminous radiance. At this point, the Way of Jielin (the cultivation method of ascending in flight to the moon) is complete.

If one has already attained the Dao (the Way) and become an immortal, and possesses the conditions of careful cultivation and concentrated visualization, then after two years of continuous visualization, faint images will appear; after three years, the images will manifest clearly; after five years of practice, one will be able to race toward the sun and moon. If one is not yet an immortal, then when first beginning to concentrate on visualization, results will naturally not come so quickly. As long as one practices over a long period, one will be able to communicate upward with the Two Luminaries (the sun and moon) and become a Perfected of Highest Clarity (Shangqing Zhenren, the realized immortals spoken of by the Shangqing school). This method is transmitted to one person every seven hundred years.

Here ends the Highest Clarity Jing (scripture) of the Nine Perfected of the Most High: Instructions on the Crimson-Born Divine Elixir (Shangqing Taishang Jiuzhen Zhongjing Jiangsheng Shendan Jue).