《玉皇十七慈光灯仪》

The Jade Emperor's Rite of the Seventeen Lamps of Compassionate Light

Perform the ceremony at the altar and recite the Mantra for Purifying Heaven and Earth.

Sovereign of the Golden Gate and Mysterious Vault (the ruler who dwells in the Golden Gate and Mysterious Vault of Heaven), revered Jade Emperor enthroned on high! Your wondrous form surpasses all the heavens, and your compassionate radiance illumines the Three Realms. You are the master of true sages and of the wondrous Dao (the Way), and the refuge of both celestial beings and mortals. You proclaim the words of the Great Vehicle and guide those who have strayed back to the True Unity. Your merit is vast as empty space, and praise of you will never be exhausted.

With this rite we respectfully announce: seventeen lamps are lit, like blossoms opening to herald glad tidings; their light pierces the nine layers of heaven, as if revealing the palaces of Tongming. First, with a single stick of incense, we reach upward through the successive realms of heaven. I, your subject, [Name], together with the Daoist practitioner [Name] and all who share this altar, in awe and trepidation, bow our heads and prostrate twice, gazing from afar toward the celestial court, and with a hundred obeisances we offer our invitation:

We respectfully invite the Heavenly Worthy of the Primordial Beginning of the Great Way of Qingwei (one of the venerated deities of Daoism), the Heavenly Worthy of the Numinous Treasure, the Supreme Lord of the Dao (one of the venerated deities of Daoism), and the Heavenly Worthy of Dao and De (Virtue/Power) of the Great Red Divine Treasure (one of the venerated deities of Daoism); the Seventeen-Lamp Sage Lord of Compassionate Light and the Azure Firmament, the Great Heavenly Worthy Jade Emperor (the Jade Emperor); as well as the Holy Father Heavenly Worthy, King of the Kingdom of Majestic Light and Wondrous Joy; the Holy Mother Primordial Lady, Queen of Precious Moonlight; the Great Holy Empress Dowager of the Palace of Supreme Subtlety and Wondrous Virtue; the Great Heavenly Emperor of Yuyu Heaven, Numinous and Wondrous Wuwei (Non-action); the Heavenly Emperor of Gaoxu Qingming; the Supreme Lord of Jade Emptiness; the Supreme Lord of Vast Heaven; and the Supreme Lords of the Five Elders. We also respectfully invite the Great Sage of Heavenly Truth and Perfected One of Wondrous Practice; the Numinous Consort and Jade Maiden; the Perfected One of Compassionate Deliverance from Calamity; the Perfected One Who Seeks the Cry and Saves the Suffering; the Perfected One Who Aids the Living and Delivers the Dead; and the Perfected One of Ten Thousand Blessings Who Protects the Body.

At the opening of the scripture banquet, we respectfully invite all the true and numinous powers, and the myriad spirits within the Three Realms, the Four Mansions, and the Six Directions, to lend an ear. We look up as you arrive in your phoenix-drawn carriages, with the calls of simurgh and phoenix ringing out, descending through the gates of the nine heavens; you ride dragons and sport with qilin, coming down to this human world of the Five Turbidities. We humbly beseech you to pour down your precious radiance and graciously receive our meager sincerity. We pray that where there is petition, there be response. The assembled officiants bow once more.

Cloud Chariot (the procession welcoming the deities) Offering of Incense Offering of Tea Conveying the Petition (stating the intent of the invocation)

I have heard that, before Heaven and Earth had been divided and the myriad things had yet to appear, the Dao Qi (the primordial vital energy of the Dao, the Way) lay contained within, deep and vast, clear and still. The august visage of the Jade Emperor gradually emerged, and the radiance of compassion grew bright and resplendent along with it. Upward it illumined the Nine Heavens, settling the clear and light Qi in its proper place; downward it shone upon the Nine Earths, so that the heavy and turbid Qi spread forth and took form. The sun, the moon, and the stars give light because of it, and the myriad things depend upon it to be transformed, brought forth, and nourished. Every living being that receives this illumination is able to grow in due course; every place graced by this radiance, however dark and hidden, is lit. All forms between Heaven and Earth in the world are illumined by this single expanse of brightness.

We venture to set forth our slight intentions and reverently praise the Jade Light. Yet to measure the sea with a ladle made from a shell—a figure for shallow understanding—fills us with true shame, and to offer our sincerity as the otter lays out fish in sacrifice yields only limited effect. On this auspicious day we kindle bright lamps and earnestly ask the Celestial Worthy to bestow the compassionate kindness of Wuwei (non-action), which does not intervene by force, and to discern our selfless prayers. We who revere the Dao, fortunate to have a place among humankind, turn our hearts wholly toward the gateway of the Dao. Grateful for the radiant shelter and acceptance of the Celestial Emperor, we wish to cultivate ourselves through the permeation of merit. By praising the Celestial Worthy we offer, however slightly, our hearts of reverence and repayment. Now the recitation of the scripture (Jing) has ended and the ritual is about to reach completion, so we lay bare our sincere hearts and gaze from afar toward the palaces of the celestial court.

We light seventeen lamps and praise seventeen kinds of compassionate light. Looking up at the Celestial Worthy’s ceremonial retinue in its countless thousands, we still find it distant and hard to reach. We earnestly beg the Celestial Worthy to accept our sincere intent and to shine upon the human world with celestial light. May the radiance enter our humble dwellings and open a prospect of good fortune and fulfillment; may the light illumine the paths among the clouds, so that we may welcome grace of exceptional excellence. What is prayed for receives a response; what is wished for is brought to completion. May all return to perfection and universally enter into the light. May everyone, following the lamps, recite what is good, reverent and devout. We bow our heads and take refuge in the boundless Great Dao.

Homage to the Jade Emperor Celestial Worthy of the Seventeen Compassionate Lights of the Unsurpassed Great Daluo Heaven.

We of the assembly sincerely dedicate our lives to the Great Jade Emperor Celestial Worthy of the Light of Great Spiritual Power, the Lofty Emperor of the Mysterious Vault (the Daoist honorific for the Celestial Emperor), the Celestial Worthy Holy Father, the Holy Mother Yuanjun, and all the numinous officers (celestial guardian spirit-generals) of the Assembly of Jade Light.

I have heard that the Holy Lord known as Wuneng (here an honorific for the supreme holy sovereign) holds sway over the fundamental principles of the ten directions and, with vast and profound spiritual power, manifests the light of compassion throughout the Three Realms (the celestial realm, the human world, and the netherworld). He enlightens the myriad things and nurtures all living beings. He already existed before Heaven and Earth appeared, and from ancient times until now he has never vanished. His radiance enhances all that moves within the workings of cosmic creation and transformation.

We have respectfully heard: the supreme and unsurpassed Holy Lord is the fundamental principle of all things in the ten directions of heaven and earth. His divine powers are vast and boundless, and the radiance of his compassion manifests throughout the Three Realms. He makes all things bright and nurtures the living beings of the world. He already existed before heaven and earth took form, and through past and present he does not perish. He adds light to the creative transformations of heaven and earth, and he also discerns the hearts of beings in heaven and in the human world. His numinous light is vast and appears with clarity in the upper realm.

We disciples who revere the Dao (the Way) have long received the care of his compassionate light. Deeply mindful of his grace and De (Virtue/Power), we wish, through praise, to express a little of what we feel. Therefore, carefully following the Keyi (liturgy)—the ritual norms of Daoism—we respectfully set up precious lamps and make offerings to the Great Divine-Power Light Jade Emperor Great Celestial Worthy, the Holy Father Celestial Worthy, the Holy Mother Yuanjun, and the many perfected spirits and true sovereigns of the Jade Light Assembly, that is, the divine perfected beings and the presiding deities.

We respectfully wish that the Imperial Lord’s light may look down upon and accept this, and that he may also grant the hopes of the people. May the Imperial Lord manifest his vast spiritual power and shelter all under heaven with impartial grace. May living beings, through the power of his compassionate light, receive rescue and nourishment. May the ways of the age be peaceful and harmonious, and may the people enjoy humane De and long life. With hearts of sincere reverence, we respectfully offer praise.

With utmost sincerity we bow in worship to the Unsurpassed Great Daluo Heaven and the Great Divine-Power Light Jade Emperor Celestial Worthy.

We respectfully praise the Jade Emperor: You radiate the light of divine power, making bright the Three Luminaries—the sun, the moon, and the stars, the three principal lights of the celestial realm—so that they shine upon the ten directions. With this hymn we praise you.

With utmost sincerity we bow in worship to the Unsurpassed Great Daluo Heaven and the Great Divine-Power Light Jade Emperor Celestial Worthy.

We respectfully praise the Jade Emperor: You radiate the light of divine power, making the Three Luminaries bright and shining upon the ten directions. Your majestic fragrant De appears everywhere, and the light of your holy De is brilliantly manifest. Your dignity is beyond compare, and your depth and breadth cannot be measured. Today the disciples open the orchid altar—the sacred ground where Daoist rituals are performed—kindle the lamps, pray, and offer praise, wishing that the intentions of our hearts may reach the celestial realm. We respectfully ask you to look down, examine us, and come in illumination, to dispel every inauspicious thing, to lengthen our years and increase our longevity, to eliminate disasters and free us from adversity, so that we may long enjoy peace and health. The disciples take refuge with utmost sincerity and pray to obtain well-being.

All the disciples here present, with utmost sincerity, entrust their lives in refuge to the Great Compassionate-Light Jade Emperor Great Celestial Worthy, the Holy Father Celestial Worthy, the Holy Mother Yuanjun, and all the immortals and spirit officers of the Jade Light Assembly—the guardian divine generals of Daoism.

We have heard that the Golden Gate Supreme One (a deity who occupies the honored seat in the celestial palace) always holds compassion in his heart, and that the Jade Emperor, Lord on High, appears in the light of mercy to shine upon all beings. The light that illuminates us depends wholly on the deities' pity, and the teaching that shapes us lets us live under their protection. The deities are loyal, generous, and forgiving, never partial, and their tolerance embraces all beings. To express our reverence and our wish to repay this kindness, we should perform a rite of praise and offering.

Your disciple of the Dao (Dao, the Way), N., has always known gratitude but has struggled to find any way to repay it. So, relying on the Daoist priest to preside, the disciple takes refuge in the sacred and mysterious images. In strict accordance with the Keyi (liturgy), the disciple solemnly sets out precious lamps as an offering to the Great Heavenly Venerable Jade Emperor of Great Compassionate Light, the Heavenly Venerable Holy Father, the Primal Sovereign Holy Mother, and all the true spirits and deities of the Assembly of Jade Light.

We humbly beseech the Jade Emperor to bestow his grace widely, so that the Dao of Heaven may turn in its cycles and good deeds may receive good rewards. May the light of compassion illuminate the world and revive all things between heaven and earth. May it dispel hardship, so that calamity ceases and good fortune descends, and so that blessings extend to our household. May the nation be as steady as a tripod cauldron, and may our homes be secure and free from worry. With utmost sincerity we bow in worship and together sing the praises of the deities.

We reverently bow before the Supreme Daluo Heaven and the Heavenly Venerable Jade Emperor of Great Compassionate Light.

We revere the Jade Emperor, whose compassion radiates light. His brilliance reaches upward through the heavenly signs and spreads downward across the whole earth. Whether hidden or manifest, far or near, all are illuminated by it and therefore know where to take refuge. May the deities remove our transgressions and wash away our dangers. Today your disciples pray earnestly according to the rite, and beg you to look upon us and grant our wishes. May we be delivered, may our hearts awaken to the mysterious principle, may the calamities of this world be lifted, and may we soon enter the realm of Wuwei (non-action; a state of accord with the Dao, free of reckless action).

With utmost sincerity we take refuge in the Great Heavenly Venerable Jade Emperor of Great Joyful and Giving Light, the Heavenly Venerable Holy Father, the Primal Sovereign Holy Mother, and all the immortals and celestial officials (heavenly divine officers) of the Assembly of Jade Light.

It is often said that one gathers wealth and precious treasures in order to commemorate the deeds of having widely bestowed grace in the past; when the hungry, the poor, the sick and weak, and the disabled are relieved, people remember with gratitude and revere the virtue of that timely aid. True giving arises from joy and free willingness; it is never done under compulsion. When De (Virtue/Power) is stored within the heart, its light shines forth in the outer world. Those who receive its compassionate grace are as numerous as the sands of the Ganges; and those who benefit from it—how could they be limited to grasses and trees alone? Praise and celebration cannot exhaust it, and taking refuge in reverence has no end.

The faithful who honor the Dao (the Way), born into this world, rely upon the vast compassion of the Great Celestial Worthy, the Jade Emperor (the celestial sovereign revered in Daoism). Now, through such practices as cultivation and the offering of incense, they express a modest measure of reverence. Carefully observing the procedures of the Keyi (liturgy), they reverently set out precious lamps as offerings to the Great Celestial Worthy Jade Emperor of the Radiance of Great Joyful Giving, the Celestial Worthy Holy Father, the Primordial Lady Holy Mother, and the true spirits and divine governors assembled in the Jade Radiance Assembly.

We respectfully pray that the August Emperor on High bestow fine grace upon the people, grant blessings, and protect the foundation of the state, so that all under heaven may long enjoy peace and well-being; that auspicious and virtuous assemblies may continue, and that the four seasons may remain ever tranquil. May every region rejoice, and may the work of the fields each year display the auspicious signs of a plentiful harvest. The faithful take refuge and perform the rites, and hereby proclaim this praise.

The faithful pay homage to the Celestial Worthy Jade Emperor of the Radiance of Great Joyful Giving in the Unsurpassed Daluo Heaven (the supreme celestial realm spoken of in Daoism).

With reverence we praise and invoke the Jade Emperor: your blessings are without limit. You delight in giving wealth and in relieving all living beings; your radiance shines throughout the Three Realms (the worlds of heaven, earth, and humanity spoken of in Daoism) and illumines all the heavens. You widely bestow grace upon the world, relieving the people and enabling them to live. Today your disciples, with sincere devotion, light lamps, offer prayers, and raise praise, wishing that the nation may long remain at peace. May the Qi (vital energy) of the Dao spread abroad, so that all may awaken to the true Dao; may living beings everywhere receive guidance and salvation, and may calamities and faults be removed. Your disciples wholeheartedly take refuge, praying for length of years and added life.

We all sincerely take refuge in the Great Celestial Worthy Jade Emperor of the Radiance of Great Forbearance, the Celestial Worthy Holy Father, the Primordial Lady Holy Mother, and all the immortals and numinous officers of the Jade Radiance Assembly.

I have respectfully heard: the Dao (the Way) of Heaven does not contend with the myriad beings for victory, yet it always enables good deeds to prevail. The Jade Emperor’s De (Virtue/Power) and grace are vast; he transforms and nurtures all things, so that life may grow in harmony and gentleness. Human nature is endowed with kindness and yielding softness, and therefore the virtue of forbearance gives forth light. When the mind is tranquil, it can master restlessness; softness, too, can overcome hardness. Only breadth and magnanimity make endurance possible, and one who can endure will not suffer disgrace. How outstanding is this bearing, and how truly precious is this compassionate heart. If a person can restrain the self and accord with the Dao of Heaven, that person can come into union with it.

Disciples who revere the teachings of the Dao are born with ordinary capacities and sojourn in the human world. For a long time they have received the shelter of divine grace, yet they have not repaid that kindness. Now, carefully observing the regulations of the Keyi (liturgy), they solemnly set forth precious lamps and make offerings to the Great Celestial Worthy, the Jade Emperor of the Light of Great Forbearance; to the Celestial Worthy, the Holy Father; to the Holy Mother Yuanjun; and to the perfected spirits and deities of the Assembly of Jade Light. They earnestly pray that the heart of Heaven will not abandon them, but will often bestow tolerance and protection; that your vast heart will deepen the roots of their blessings and De; and that your earnest compassion will cause their good deeds gradually to increase. May their De be renewed day by day, and may all that they do accord with good intention. With devout prostrations, they respectfully offer this praise.

The faithful worship the supreme Great Canopy Heaven and the Jade Emperor Celestial Worthy of the Light of Great Forbearance.

Reverently we gaze upon the Jade Emperor. You radiate the light of forbearance; your loving-kindness extends throughout the dusty world, and your teaching reaches the four directions. You set aside force and honor yielding weakness, subduing the hard by means of the soft. Your heart is vast beyond measure. Today the disciples look up to the azure heaven and pray that grace may have a sure support and that blessings may be without end. From this auspicious day onward, may calamities be removed; may we long take refuge in your compassionate protection and forever welcome auspicious fortune.

We, your servants, with sincere hearts entrust our lives to the Great Celestial Worthy, the Jade Emperor of the Light of Great Equality; to the Celestial Worthy, the Holy Father; to the Holy Mother Yuanjun; and to all the immortals and numinous officers of the Assembly of Jade Light.

I have heard that the Jade Emperor holds sway over the Three Realms, his exalted seat set high in the Mysterious Vault (the celestial realm). Like a bright mirror he surveys the ten directions, and so his light shines equally upon all things. He makes plain that the principle of Heaven is originally without distinction, so that the human heart no longer favors one side. One who grasps its essential purport will not give rise to the selfish mind that elevates one side and disparages the other; one who discerns its subtlety can together enter the Dao (the Way) of great impartiality and perfect rectitude.

Now a certain person, mindful of grace and kindness and wishing to repay it yet unable to repay it in full, reverently follows the ritual methods of the Keyi (liturgy), sets up precious lamps, and makes offerings to the Great Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Equal Light, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Holy Mother Primordial Lady, and all the perfected spirits and true sovereigns (divine perfected beings and presiding deities) of the Assembly of Jade Light. We respectfully pray that celestial light may shine down and make manifest the Dao of justice without partiality. Now a certain person, mindful of grace and kindness and wishing to repay it yet unable to repay it in full, reverently follows the ritual methods of the Keyi, sets up precious lamps, and makes offerings to the Great Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Equal Light, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Holy Mother Primordial Lady, and all the perfected spirits and true sovereigns of the Assembly of Jade Light. We respectfully pray that celestial light may shine down and that the imperial mandate may be widely proclaimed. May this grace extend to all living beings, so that each person may preserve the root of life; may this merit aid all under Heaven, so that everyone may meet with favorable fortune. May all alike encounter good opportunity and share equally in this grace; with sincere hearts we take refuge, and respectfully offer this praise.

We reverently bow in worship to the Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Equal Light, of the Unsurpassed Great Veil Heaven.

We reverently gaze upon the Jade Emperor: his light is equal and impartial, vast and open, brilliant and resplendent; it can both embrace Heaven and Earth and penetrate to the most minute places. The Mysterious Vault bestows its grace, and the dharma-realm displays auspicious signs. Today the disciples look from afar toward the realm where the divinity abides, pour out their sincere hearts in profession of faith, and earnestly entreat Heaven above. We hope the divinity will send down blessings and favor and dispel calamity; may the host of spirits present good fortune, so that all may long enjoy peace and health.

We, your servants, with sincere hearts take refuge in the Great Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Gentle Harmonious Light, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Holy Mother Primordial Lady, and all the immortals and spirit officials of the Assembly of Jade Light.

I have heard: the Supreme Thearch alone is honored—why, after all, is this so?

We, your servants, with sincere hearts take refuge in the Great Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Gentle Harmonious Light, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Holy Mother Primordial Lady, and all the immortals and spirit officials of the Assembly of Jade Light.

I have heard that the Lord on High is supreme beyond all others, so that none can be compared with him; the Great Dao (the Way) has no adversary, for gentleness is able to overcome hardness and strength. From his pure and quiescent Dharma-body—the pure, formless original substance—the Jade Emperor universally manifests a form of gentle radiance. Those illuminated by this light become perfectly harmonious and penetrating, gentle and upright; those sheltered by this glory give rise in their hearts to compassion and auspicious peace. This radiance has shone brilliantly from ancient times to the present.

We who revere the Dao are fortunate to have received life, yet we are often veiled by ignorance. Now, roaming and resting freely in accord with our inborn nature, we wish to offer what little strength we have and reverently repay the great grace of Heaven. Therefore, strictly observing the prescribed forms of ritual, we solemnly set up precious lamps and make offerings to the Great Jade August Heavenly Worthy of Great Gentle Radiance, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Primordial Lady Holy Mother, and all the true spirits and true sovereigns of the Assembly of Jade Light. We reverently pray that Heaven may clearly perceive our sincerity and that the Jade Emperor may look down in mindful compassion; that vast grace may be widely bestowed, so the world everywhere receives the transforming teaching of peace; and that fair blessings may be granted, so the inner nature and life of all beings may be preserved whole. May this grace extend through the world of the living and the hidden realms of the dead, so that every place receives benefit and peaceful ease. With one heart, sincere intent, and purified resolve, we respectfully proclaim this.

With utmost sincerity we pay homage to the Jade August Heavenly Worthy of Great Gentle Radiance in the Unsurpassed Daluo Heaven (Great Canopy Heaven).

In reverent contemplation of the Jade Emperor: he sends forth gentle radiance, awakening and illuminating all beings and seeing into the boundless and limitless. With auspicious peace he settles Heaven and Earth; with the power of gentleness he subdues evil demons. May disasters and sickness within the realm disperse, and may disordered and discordant times be brought to rest. We now respectfully proclaim this.

With utmost sincerity we pay homage to the Jade August Heavenly Worthy of Great Gentle Radiance in the Unsurpassed Daluo Heaven.

In reverent contemplation of the Jade Emperor: he sends forth gentle radiance, awakening and illuminating all beings and seeing into the boundless and limitless. With auspicious peace he settles Heaven and Earth; with the power of gentleness he subdues evil demons. May disasters and sickness within the realm disperse, and may disordered and discordant times be brought to rest. Today the disciples lift their gaze and address their prayer to the Miluo Heaven—the supreme celestial realm of which Daoism speaks—hoping that the land may be at peace and that warfare may cease forever. We earnestly beg the Jade Emperor to look upon us with special favor, so that pestilence and calamity may subside and the people may be spared injury and death. We wish that the way of the age may be clear and bright, that the methods of the Dao may flourish, and that songs of peace and joy may sound once more in the human world.

All of us, with sincere hearts, take refuge and entrust our lives to the Great Jade August Heavenly Worthy of Great Unimpeded Radiance, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Primordial Lady Holy Mother, and all the immortals and numinous officials of the Assembly of Jade Light.

Your servant has heard: the Jade Emperor is majestic and resplendent, dwelling in the realm of Tongming (Penetrating Brightness), his exalted station lofty and remote. The root of the Great Dao (Dao, the Way) is pure stillness and Wuwei (non-action), and so its light manifests freely of itself. The Great Dao lets the myriad things come and go, to move or to rest. Because they differ in clarity and turbidity, some sink and some float. The Great Dao does act, yet without clinging or obstruction. One who understands this principle finds nothing that cannot be carried out; one who grasps its working can open every blockage into a free passage. The myriad things transform of themselves, and the Great Dao is present everywhere.

We who revere the Dao are dull of capacity. Graced by the blessings sent down by the Jade Emperor, we perform a lamp ritual as a modest token of sincere reverence. Following the procedures of the rite, we set out precious lamps and make offerings to the Great Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Sovereign Light, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Primordial Lady Holy Mother, and the perfected spirits and true sovereigns of the Assembly of Jade Light. We respectfully pray that the Dao of emptiness be spread abroad and the light of sovereign freedom sent forth; that the state be secure and families at peace, so that all under heaven enjoy great peace; that lifespan be lengthened and the reckoning of blessings increased; and that the produce of the land be abundant and the people safe and well. May we behold with our own eyes an age of great peace and prosperity, and live in person in a time of stability and flourishing. With sincere hearts we take refuge and offer praise together.

We reverently bow in worship to the Jade Emperor Heavenly Worthy of Great Sovereign Light in the supreme Daluo Heaven (Great Canopy Heaven).

Reverently contemplating the Jade Emperor: you abide in the supreme honored station at the pivot of the celestial court, coming and going in sovereign freedom, transforming without restraint. Your radiance illumines the vault of heaven and the celestial paths. From the upper realm you send down grace and bestow blessings upon vast territories. Today your disciples sincerely declare their reverence and respectfully invite your sacred carriage to descend to this earthly dwelling, to grant good fortune and to still disaster and sorrow. May the four seasons be peaceful and harmonious, and may every calamity and fault be entirely removed.

We disciples, with sincere hearts, entrust our lives to the Great Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Beneficent Light, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Primordial Lady Holy Mother, and all the immortals and numinous officers of the Assembly of Jade Light.

I have heard that the Great Celestial Worthy, the Jade Emperor, is the ancestral master of the Three Realms. Out of compassion and loving concern for the beings of the world, he broadly opens the gate of expedient means. He is also the compassionate father of beings of the four modes of birth. With light he illumines the entire Dharma-realm and opens for beings a path by which they may gain benefit. When auspicious radiance is sent forth, it is as if the sun and moon pause in their courses; when the power of kindly grace is put into effect, it is as if a ferry bridge to the other shore has been raised. All beings beneath the shining of heavenly light receive the moistening of compassionate grace. Sagely De (Virtue/Power) shines forth and is plainly manifest, and the favor bestowed is vast and profound.

The disciple So-and-so, who has faith in the Great Dao (the Way), has by grace been granted a place in the sacred realm and has long bathed in the radiance of the Jade Emperor. If one does not avail oneself of the lighting of lamps, how can one express the wish to repay the fundamental grace of De? Therefore, carefully following the regulations of the rite, I reverently set out precious lamps and make offerings to the Great Celestial Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Benefit-Light, to the Celestial Worthy, the Holy Father, to the Holy Mother Yuanjun (Primordial Lady), and to all true spirits and true sovereigns in the Assembly of Jade Light. I pray that compassionate light may shine through all, and that sagely clarity may examine and look down with favor, keeping me far from a thousand calamities and letting me long enjoy abundance, longevity, and a vast bestowal; extending my lifespan, bringing down a hundred blessings, and letting brightness and peace attend me, so that there will never be later misfortune and I may ever cherish many blessings. The disciple takes refuge, holds faith, and offers reverence, and hereby presents this praise.

With faith and reverence I honor the Celestial Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Benefit-Light, of the Unsurpassed Great Canopy Heaven (Daluo Tian).

Reverently I praise and invoke the Jade Emperor: you are the sovereign who, through countless kalpas, remains exalted, noble, and at peace. May I forever be free of later misfortune and ever cherish many blessings. The disciple takes refuge, holds faith, and offers reverence, and hereby presents this praise.

With faith and reverence I honor the Celestial Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Benefit-Light, of the Unsurpassed Great Canopy Heaven.

Reverently I praise and invoke the Jade Emperor: you are the sovereign exalted through countless kalpas. You send down light that benefits living beings and illumines heaven and earth; for the multitude of beings you raise a ferry bridge and save and deliver people of every kind. From ancient times until now you have always proven responsive; whether a matter is great or small, you regard all alike. Today the disciple lifts his gaze and makes this prayer, doing good by lighting lamps and offering sincere and wholehearted devotion. I earnestly beg you to send down loving protection, to bestow lifespan and blessings, to cause calamities to disperse and hardships to be released, and to grant peace and security without end.

We disciples, with sincere hearts, entrust our lives to the Great Celestial Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Wish-Fulfilling Light, to the Celestial Worthy, the Holy Father, to the Holy Mother Yuanjun, and to all immortals and every Numinous Officer in the Assembly of Jade Light.

I have heard that August Heaven is impartial and without deviation because the heart within is clear and thoroughly lucid, and that the Lord on High is supremely exalted because what lies within is bright, penetrating, and fully discerning. Heaven’s profound scrutiny bestows an impartial light, and its brilliance sends forth wish-fulfilling radiance. This brilliance extends its grace to all immortals and every Numinous Officer in the Assembly of Jade Light.

I have heard that Heaven moves without error because its inner realm is clear and fully open, and that the Jade Emperor, supreme and most exalted, is so because his inner discernment is lucid and pure. With profound and far-reaching insight, the Jade Emperor sends down impartial illumination, emitting a radiance that shines upon all things and appears in accordance with one’s wishes. Those touched by this light find their wishes answered; those who receive its splendor find that what they seek is granted. Everywhere one senses that the Sovereign examines the human heart, and everyone obtains protection that meets their hopes. The Sovereign’s sacred De (Virtue/Power) is deep and vast beyond full recounting, and the people all hold him in reverence.

A disciple who believes in the great Dao (the Way), So-and-so, grateful for Heaven’s mysterious teaching, wishes to offer wholehearted sincerity and, relying on slender conditions of affinity, reverently repay Heaven’s generous grace. Now, carefully following the norms of Keyi (liturgy), we solemnly set out precious lamps and make offerings to the Great Jade Emperor Heavenly Worthy of Wish-Fulfilling Light, the Holy Father Heavenly Worthy, the Holy Mother Yuanjun (Primordial Lady), and the perfected spirits and deities of the Jade Light Assembly. We reverently pray that the Jade Emperor’s majestic presence descend, hear, and accept our petitions; that good fruits be fulfilled, plans proceed smoothly, and affairs turn out as wished; that the roots and shoots of life suffer no harm, and that one remain healthy and long-lived into old age. May all receive Heaven’s shelter and live in peace and joy. We take refuge in, believe in, and pay homage to Heaven, and with this we praise the deities.

With faith we pay homage to the Unsurpassed Great Canopy Heaven (Daluo tian) and the Jade Emperor Heavenly Worthy of Great Wish-Fulfilling Light.

In reverent praise of the Jade Emperor: the Jade Emperor receives and carries the vast primordial Dao—the original state before Heaven and Earth took form—existing prior to Heaven and Earth, without beginning or end. He sends forth wish-fulfilling light and dwells at the highest place of the heavens. Every request is answered, and every wish is granted. Today the disciple, thinking from afar of the Jade Palace, lights lamps as an offering and sincerely and reverently pours out the wishes of the heart, hoping that the Jade Emperor will examine them with clear insight, cast down his light, and look upon our humble intentions. We pray for lengthened life, increased blessings and allotted years, and the removal of calamity and danger.

We, your subjects, with one heart take refuge and entrust our lives, reverently honoring the Great Jade Emperor Heavenly Worthy of Wisdom Light, the Holy Father Heavenly Worthy, the Holy Mother Yuanjun, and all the immortals and numinous officers of the Jade Light Assembly.

In the text, “lighting lamps as an offering” means lighting lamps and presenting them during the rite, using their light to express reverence and to pray for the deities’ protection.

I have heard that he discerns what is profound, hidden, and minute, his brightness like the bright mirror of Heaven; his wisdom penetrates the mysterious principle, and sincere hearts are likewise perceived by the Celestial Emperor. The light of wisdom shines into the far distance, and the power of compassionate grace illumines the dusty world. When the subtlety of truth is grasped, mind and nature become as clear as the sky; when the principle within is understood, the inner heart becomes thoroughly bright. The dull can become wise, and the stubborn can receive instruction.

A disciple, dwelling between Heaven and Earth and receiving this universal illumination, who wishes to express refuge and reverence, ought to do so through praise and prayer. I carefully observe the ritual procedures, solemnly set forth precious lamps, and make offerings to the Great Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Wisdom Light, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Holy Mother Yuanjun, and all the perfected immortals and deities of the Jade Light Assembly. I respectfully wish that the light of the Celestial Emperor shine through all things, and that Heaven’s bright discernment be clear and penetrating. May all beings dwell securely between Heaven and Earth, each following the rightful nature of life; may they ever receive abundance, and each understand the root of the transformations of the myriad things. May the four seasons be at peace, and may all remain far from the Three Calamities (the three disasters spoken of in Daoism). With united hearts and concentrated mindfulness, let all carefully proclaim the praises.

I respectfully bow in worship to the Unsurpassed Great Daluo Heaven (the supreme celestial realm spoken of in Daoism) and the Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Wisdom Light.

I revere the Jade Emperor, whose wisdom is perfectly complete and penetrating, whose light universally illumines the world, and who dwells in the Mysterious Vault (the remote and lofty heavens). His merit is accomplished, yet he does not claim it as his own; he brings peace to the four seasons, and living beings remain far from the Three Calamities. With united hearts and concentrated mindfulness, let all carefully proclaim the praises.

I respectfully bow in worship to the Unsurpassed Great Daluo Heaven and the Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Wisdom Light.

I revere the Jade Emperor, whose wisdom is perfectly complete and penetrating, whose light universally illumines the world, and who dwells in the Mysterious Vault. His merit is lofty, yet he does not claim it as his own, and thus the renown of the Dao (the Way) grows ever more abundant. The Jade Emperor perceives what is profound and hidden, and also clearly discerns those who are ignorant and unawakened. Today this disciple, with a sincere heart, holds a Zhaijiao (purification ritual) and offers reverent prayer. I humbly ask that protection be sent down and that the sincerity of ordinary people be received. May the sun, moon, and stars send down auspicious signs, and may all regions under Heaven be harmonious and at peace; may good fortune be preserved forever, and may every year bring a plentiful harvest.

We ministers, with one heart, take refuge in the Great Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Great Auspicious Light, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Holy Mother Yuanjun, and all the immortals and numinous officers (the divine officiants and spirit-generals of Daoism) of the Jade Light Assembly.

I have heard that August Heaven protects and blesses all living beings. When people follow the upright Dao (the Way), they welcome auspicious blessings and attain vast radiance. The Jade Emperor, mindful of the merits of the many, sends down auspicious omens and manifests rare and sacred visions. Precious flames illuminate heaven and earth and can turn darkness into brightness. Jade light shines upon the heart of heaven and earth, making what is deep and subtle all the clearer. All things receive the illumination of compassionate light and at every moment welcome fine good fortune. The myriad things continually transform and come into being, and every person attains kindness and long life.

The disciple who serves the Dao, So-and-so, holds the wondrous Dao in mind, sincerely takes refuge, pours out a heart of pure devotion, and looks upward, beseeching Heaven’s clear discernment. The disciple carefully observes the norms of the Keyi (liturgy), reverently sets up precious lamps, and makes offerings to the Jade August Great Celestial Worthy of Great Auspicious Light, the Holy Father Celestial Worthy, the Holy Mother Yuanjun (Primordial Lady), and all the perfected spirits and divine ministers. We humbly wish that heaven be bright and tranquil, and that order on earth be clear and peaceful; that harmonious Qi (vital energy) bring good fortune, so that people constantly meet seasons of smooth prosperity; and that the wind of compassion benefit all things, continually dispelling epidemics and disasters. May all be prosperous and long-lived, safe and healthy, and may the myriad things grow and multiply. Together we cherish sincerity and reverence and purify our hearts, and hereby proclaim this.

We reverently bow in worship to the Jade August Celestial Worthy of Great Auspicious Light in the unsurpassed Daluo Heaven.

We reverently contemplate how the Jade Emperor, by the Dharma-body, responds and transforms within the world. Auspicious radiance shines everywhere, dissolving the Qi of perversity and discord. May heaven be free of foul Qi, and may the earth be utterly without demonic evil and dusty miasma. Auspicious Qi encircles the distant lands of the eight directions, and the Nine Provinces and all quarters welcome auspicious signs. Today the disciple delights in cultivating the Dao and longs for the true Dao, lights the precious torch, and with a pure Zhai (purification) rite and a sincere heart offers worship and offerings, praying that the Jade Emperor send down the protection of his light and keep all people safe, healthy, and at peace. May the natal destiny and primordial chronograms (the stars bound up with one’s personal fate) together uphold and protect us, and may the eyes of sacred clarity shine upon us together.

We of the assembly sincerely take refuge and entrust our lives, bowing in worship to the Jade August Great Celestial Worthy of Great Liberation Light, the Holy Father Celestial Worthy, the Holy Mother Yuanjun, and all the immortals and numinous officers of the Assembly of Jade Light.

I have heard that the realm of purity, quiescence, and liberation manifests its radiance within the one true Dao (the Way). The sage’s wisdom is perfectly complete and fully penetrating, and the Dao holds all together and runs through the Four Great Elements (earth, water, fire, and wind, which constitute the myriad things). The Jade Emperor abides in honor above the Three Realms (the worlds of heaven, earth, humanity, and the like), ruling the myriad spirits. Subtle radiance can release living beings from the distress of their own self-entanglement, and numinous brilliance can undo the plight in which beings bind themselves through delusion. The light of heaven shines afar, the sage’s grace is widely bestowed, and both ordinary people and beings endowed with spirit receive the illumination of compassionate light.

Today a certain disciple, born amid the creative transformations of heaven and earth and bearing the allotted span conferred by Heaven, now turns the heart toward the Dao and takes refuge in the true Dao. To repay this grace, and carefully observing the norms of Keyi (liturgy), the disciple devoutly sets out precious lamps as offerings to the Great Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of the Light of Great Liberation, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Holy Mother Yuanjun, and the perfected spirits and deities of the Assembly of Jade Light. We respectfully pray that the heart of Heaven gladly receive this, and that the Jade Emperor, in compassionate regard, grant approval. May auspicious signs increase day by day, sheltering and nurturing the people so that they long remain at peace; may the cloudy heavens broadly extend their protection, guarding the faithful in safety and freedom from care. May the world long enjoy harmony and accord, and may disasters and illnesses quietly disperse. With utmost sincerity we bow our heads and offer praise together.

With devout reverence we honor the Unsurpassed Great Daluo Heaven and the Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of the Light of Great Liberation. May his light long shelter and nurture the people and broadly extend its protection, so that the faithful remain safe and free from care; may the world long enjoy harmony and accord, and may disasters and illnesses quietly disperse. With utmost sincerity we bow our heads and offer praise together.

In respectful praise of the Jade Emperor: the light of liberation illuminates the jade heavens and shines upon the celestial court. The netherworld and the human world alike rely on his protection, and from ancient times to the present all have revered his Dao and De (Virtue/Power). Living beings may thereby obtain what they wish, and there is no wish that cannot be fulfilled. Today the disciple, looking up to the Great Dao and praying for the protection of the spirits, recites the relevant Jing (scripture/classic) and offers lamps to the immortals and the perfected; earnestly seeking deliverance and pouring forth a heart of utmost sincerity, the disciple hopes to dispel calamity and to enjoy yuan, heng, li, and zhen (the four auspicious virtues in the Yijing, the Classic of Changes).

We of this assembly, with utmost sincerity, entrust our lives and devoutly take refuge in the Great Heavenly Worthy, the Jade Emperor of the Light of Great Refuge, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Holy Mother Yuanjun, and all the immortals and numinous officers of the Assembly of Jade Light.

I have heard that the realm of taking refuge in the Dao (the Way) requires more than three thousand kalpas of cultivation, and that following the lineage of the Xuanmen (the Mysterious Gate, the Daoist path of practice) allows one to be illuminated by seventeen rays of compassionate spiritual light. When the heart holds the benevolent intention to guide living beings, light appears within refuge itself. Those who grasp its principles may return to the true path; those who understand its meaning can find the road of cultivation by following the Dao.

The mysterious purport is profound and hard to fathom, the radiance of compassion shines brilliantly, and the sage's virtue manifests clearly, while its subtle and wondrous workings are difficult to put into words. This disciple of the Dao, so-and-so, is unceasingly grateful for the grace of the Dao and holds it in constant reverence. With utmost sincerity, I respectfully make offerings to Heaven and, in accordance with the Keyi (liturgy), set out the precious lamps, presenting them to the Jade Emperor, Great Heavenly Venerable of the Great Refuge Light, the Heavenly Venerable Holy Father, the Primal Sovereign Holy Mother, and all the true spirits and true rulers of the Jade Light Assembly.

I humbly pray that the Heavenly Venerable will respond without waiting for words, and that every petition will be heard. May the sovereign's beneficence shine upon the world and soothe the Five Chen (the sun, moon, and five planets), so that they move in due order and harmony. May the teachings of the Dao spread to distant lands, nurturing the myriad things so that all may flourish. May all beings be freed from the roots of suffering and have their calamities dispelled. Now, with hearts of refuge and faithful homage, I reverently proclaim this rite.

We faithfully pay homage to the supreme Daluo Heaven and to the Jade Heavenly Venerable of the Great Refuge Light.

I reverently contemplate the Jade Emperor, who in former times, in the Qingwei Heaven (one of the heavens described in Daoism), cherished the vow to receive and guide all beings and radiated the light of refuge. He perceived all subtleties and awakened the deluded, so that every kind of being might accord with the Dao of Wuwei (non-action). Today, this disciple gazes toward the celestial court in reverent admiration. May the lamplight shine everywhere, so that the faithful receive blessings; may the five planets follow their orbits in bright radiance; and may the people be peaceful and joyful, with every blessing and fortune descending in due measure.

All of us sincerely take refuge in, and respectfully serve, the Great Meritorious Light Jade Heavenly Venerable, the Heavenly Venerable Holy Father, the Primal Sovereign Holy Mother, and all the immortals and spirit officials of the Jade Light Assembly.

I have heard that one who forgets one’s own merit can, on the contrary, bring achievement to completion; the merit of the Heavenly Dao (the Way) moves all things, yet does not set itself up as their master. A person of lofty De (Virtue/Power) does not regard himself as possessing De, and for this reason the Jade Emperor’s bestowal of De is likewise without fault. Bearing a heart of benevolence and compassion for all living beings, he manifests a form radiant with merit and light, opens Heaven and Earth, and nurtures and transforms past and present. Throughout the Nine Provinces his radiance shines everywhere, and there is no one who does not receive his grace; every quarter under Heaven bathes in his blessings, and the living beings of the Three Realms are all under his protection. The myriad things are thereby able to grow and be preserved, and every person is thereby able to leave suffering behind.

This disciple, So-and-so, though as lowly and frail as a person of the wild fields, has nevertheless received this grace in abundance. Now, by burning incense and practicing cultivation, I offer a modest token of repayment. Reverently following the Keyi (liturgy), I set up precious lamps to make offerings to the Jade Emperor Great Celestial Worthy, vast in merit and boundless in light, together with the Holy Father Celestial Worthy, the Holy Mother Yuanjun (Primordial Lady), and the many true spirits and true governors of the Jade Light Assembly. I earnestly beg the Worthies to put forth the six kinds of spiritual power and release myriad millions of rays of light. May the Heavenly Dao be lofty, far-reaching, and luminous, so that living beings may grow and be nourished; may the Jade Emperor’s grace extend broadly and far, so that the four seasons may be peaceful and harmonious. May the calamitous Qi (vital energy) of the present instantly disperse, and may the disasters accumulated in former times be cleared away completely. This disciple devoutly bows his head and hereby proclaims the holy De.

Homage to the Jade Emperor Celestial Worthy of Great Meritorious Light of the unsurpassed Daluo Heaven.

With reverence I contemplate the Jade Emperor: he already existed before Heaven and Earth were formed; he accumulated merit, embodied and accorded with the Great Dao, and condensed mysterious and wondrous Qi. His radiance illuminates the Three Realms, and his teaching and grace reach all eight directions. Both the dark netherworld and the human world rely upon his protection, and his holy De has been transmitted from antiquity down to the present day. Today this disciple, with a single concentrated mind, looks up toward the celestial court, sets lamps and performs rites upon the ritual altar, praying that the Qi of the Dao may flow forth and spread, gracing the people, forever eliminating disaster and epidemic, and ever preserving peace in the eight directions and abundant harvests year after year.

We disciples sincerely take refuge in the Jade Emperor Great Celestial Worthy of Great and Perfect Light, the Holy Father Celestial Worthy, the Holy Mother Yuanjun, and all the immortals and numinous officers of the Jade Light Assembly.

I have heard that the wondrous form of the Jade Emperor, the Great Celestial Worthy, dwells above all the heavens, perfect and complete. The light of his compassion illuminates the Three Realms—the Realm of Desire, the Realm of Form, and the Formless Realm—and nothing is lacking. The jade tuft, the white hair between the Jade Emperor’s brows, sends forth radiance that shines upon the Heaven of Taiwei, and golden brilliance extends throughout the realm of Dayou. When a person bathes in this light, the mind of the Dao (the Way) increases; illuminated by this radiance, the principle of Heaven can prevail in the world. The Jade Emperor’s light harmonizes all things without partiality, and his vow to comfort living beings has a beginning and an end.

The disciple devoted to the Dao, So-and-so, born by receiving Heaven’s mandate and knowing his own humble station, therefore purifies himself and looks up to Heaven, serving the Celestial Emperor with his whole sincere heart. In careful accordance with the regulations of Keyi (liturgy), he solemnly sets forth precious lamps as offerings to the Great Celestial Worthy of the Jade Emperor of Great Perfect Light, the Celestial Worthy Holy Father, the Primordial Lady Holy Mother, and the true spirits and true sovereigns of the Assembly of Jade Light. He respectfully prays that the Jade Emperor manifest his perfect sacred form and emit vast light; that he rescue and protect all beings, bestowing grace without forcibly dominating; that he weigh every kind among the myriad things, clearly discerning good and evil without selfish intent. May grace continue without end, nurturing the root of all living beings and dispelling disasters and the destinies of calamity. All present concentrate their minds in prayer and respectfully proclaim words of praise for the deities. The following prayer text is repeated once more in the original.

The faithful pay homage to the Celestial Worthy of the Jade Emperor of Great Perfect Light of the supreme Daluo Heaven, the highest celestial realm.

With reverence we call to mind the Jade Emperor: Formerly you dwelt in the Mysterious Vault, the lofty celestial realm; your meritorious practice was complete, your methods of the Dao perfected, and your De (Virtue/Power) abundant. The light of compassion shone everywhere, and favor reached the four quarters; you taught and transformed the world and preside over the cosmos. Today the disciples quiet their hearts, visualize in contemplation and gaze upon the vermilion steps—the red-painted steps before the palace—of the celestial court, and establish a rite to repay Heaven’s grace. May the heart of Heaven be moved to respond and look down upon the wishes of the people; may the age be clear and peaceful, the fortune of the Dao flourish, and the years bring abundant harvests. With single-minded sincerity the disciples pray intently, wishing to enjoy long life.

We all, with one heart, take refuge in the Great Celestial Worthy of the Jade Emperor of Great Unobstructed Light, the Celestial Worthy Holy Father, the Primordial Lady Holy Mother, and all the immortals and spirit-officials—holders of celestial divine office—of the Assembly of Jade Light.

I have heard that the workings of the divine are profound and unfathomable; whatever has form has a power that brings it into form. The manifestation of light arises naturally of itself; precisely because of Wuwei (non-action), nothing can obstruct it. The Great Celestial Worthy of the Jade Emperor of Great Unobstructed Light, the Celestial Worthy Holy Father, the Primordial Lady Holy Mother, and all the immortals and spirit-officials of the Assembly of Jade Light.

Your servant has heard that the wondrous operation is difficult to fathom: when the myriad things possess their inner functioning, they can manifest form. The appearing of light arises of itself, without fabrication, and therefore meets no obstruction. A jade-like radiance spreads in all directions, and there is nowhere it does not shine; a golden brilliance appears, and all living beings can thereby prosper. It can open the heart clouded by delusive thoughts and light the road ahead for those who have lost their way. Those who can comprehend it come and go without barrier; those who can awaken accord with change and reach through naturally. Even while dwelling in an ordinary body subject to affliction and defect, one can cultivate and attain the unsurpassed Great Dao (the Way).

So-and-so, a disciple devoted to the Dao, serves the Celestial Emperor with a single heart and resolves to look up toward the celestial realm. He constantly restrains the heart that stirs restlessly like a monkey and the thoughts that bolt like a wild horse, and, like the jackal and the otter presenting their offerings, he offers his reverence with wholehearted devotion. Now, carefully following the standards of Keyi (liturgy), he reverently lights the precious lamp and makes offerings to the Great Heavenly Worthy, Jade Emperor of Great Unobstructed Light, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Primordial Lady Holy Mother, and all the perfected spirits and true sovereigns of the Assembly of Jade Light. He humbly prays that the Worthies manifest compassionate forms and send forth light free of all obstruction. May the Great Dao shine like the sun at noon, so that the Way of Qian proceeds and brings blessing and felicity; may the bounty of De (Virtue/Power) extend throughout the world, so that all things borne by the earth long remain at peace. This disciple will forever reverently receive the mysterious grace and long enjoy loving protection. All present, of one and the same sincere heart, reverently proclaim this vow.

The faithful pay homage to the Heavenly Worthy, Jade Emperor of Great Unobstructed Light, of the unsurpassed Daluo Heaven (the supreme celestial realm in which the honored deities of Daoism dwell).

Reverently contemplating the Jade Emperor: he embodies and accords with the Great Dao, spontaneously and of himself; supremely compassionate and supremely holy, he exists prior to Heaven and Earth. He dwells in stillness in the Jade Palace (the abode of the Celestial Emperor) and becomes the field of merit (the support through which one cultivates blessings and receives benefit) for all living beings in the world. His light is without obstruction, and his grace is bestowed upon those who have affinity with him. Today this disciple, moved by gratitude, respectfully offers thanks to Heaven above. The lamp flames are like the radiance of immortal cranes, and the incense smoke coils like dragons. This disciple looks up and begs the Heavenly Worthy to examine and perceive clearly, to bestow boundless blessing and protection, to lengthen life and remove calamity, and to dissolve hardship and adversity.

We, your servants, with sincere hearts take refuge and entrust our lives to the Great Heavenly Worthy, Jade Emperor of Unsurpassable Light, the Heavenly Worthy Holy Father, the Primordial Lady Holy Mother, and all the immortals and numinous officers (divine officials who hold appointed duties in the divine realm of Daoism) of the Assembly of Jade Light.

I have heard it said that Heaven brings the myriad things into being, and that each of them has its fixed name. The Jade Emperor sends forth the light of compassion, a light that no power can surpass. Wondrous efficacy often arises from softness and yielding, and so spiritual power is vast beyond any measure. It is immense and hard to conceive, yet it appears with clarity. Understand this principle, and one knows that the few can withstand the many; grasp its inner workings, and one knows that the weak can overcome the strong. Among things and in the human world alike, this principle has remained the same from ancient times to the present.

A disciple who honors the Dao (the Way), so-and-so, reveres the sagely and luminous teaching and wishes to receive the pure influence of the Dao. A solemn altar is therefore established, the excellent model of the methods is proclaimed, and, carefully following the ritual regulations, precious lamps are raised in offering to the Great Celestial Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Unsurpassable Light; to the Celestial Worthy, the Holy Father; to the Primordial Lady, the Holy Mother; and to all the perfected spirits and true presiding powers in the Assembly of Jade Light. We respectfully pray that this light remain unsurpassable and that grace be constantly bestowed. May we soon receive profound favor and enter upon a path that is open and smooth; may we before long meet an age of peace and stability, so that every person may come into the realm of long life and well-being. May this grace reach all living beings, so that sentient beings together enjoy blessed peace. We take refuge and offer devout homage, and we hereby proclaim it.

The assembly devoutly pays homage to the supreme Daluo Heaven (Great Veil Heaven) and to the Celestial Worthy, the Jade Emperor of Unsurpassable Light.

We revere the Jade Emperor, who takes the Dao as his heart. His light cannot be surpassed, and for this reason his grace bears a title of special excellence. He nurtures Heaven and Earth and embraces past and present. Though without sound and without form, he is the root from which the myriad things come into being. Today the disciples wish to repay this far-reaching kindness, and so they solemnly arrange a feast of lamps and reverently carry out the rite. We earnestly ask the Jade Emperor to look down with compassion and discernment, and to receive the sincere hearts of ordinary disciples. May every calamity scatter like a flash of lightning, and may all five blessings descend.

With utmost sincerity the assembly prays that the realm and every household remain forever at peace.

The assembly recites.

The Great Dao (the Way) stands supreme and unsurpassed; no sect can confine it. It is the true Highest Perfected (Shangzhen), a lofty perfected deity who has attained the Dao. Upward it delivers the many heavens; downward it rescues the souls in the dark underworld. It has no higher master or ancestral teacher; the Dao itself alone is the root. The Cinnabar Terrace and the Purple Prefecture (Dantai and Zifu), abodes of immortals and perfected beings, together with the Golden Portal and the Jade Capital (Jinque and Yujing), palaces of the celestial realm, all harbor this wondrous method. May this wondrous method broadly bestow blessings on every sentient being, remove my many transgressions, and add to my longevity. May the myriad spirits come to pay homage, and the demon kings escort and welcome me; may merit flourish, and my name be entered in the Yellow Register (Huanglu), a document used in Daoist Zhaijiao (purification ritual) to record merit and to pray for blessings and the aversion of calamity. Through kalpas of endless duration, may I long endure and never perish.

The Unsurpassed Jade Emperor Mind-Seal Scripture (Wushang Yuhuang Xinyin Jing)

The superior medicines are three: Shen (spirit), Qi (vital energy), and Jing (essence). Their state is elusive and hard to discern, profound and unfathomable. Preserve and nurture the void, and guard what is substantial, and accomplishment may come in a moment. Turn the wind-breath back so that the various Qi mingle; after a hundred days, merit and name are entered in the registers. Through kalpas of endless duration, may I long endure and never perish.

The Unsurpassed Jade Emperor Mind-Seal Scripture

The superior medicines are three: Shen, Qi, and Jing. Their state is elusive and hard to discern, profound and unfathomable. Preserve and nurture the void, and guard what is substantial, and accomplishment may come in a moment. Turn the wind-breath back so that the various Qi mingle, and in a hundred days the work is accomplished. In silence one pays court to the Lord on High; after one ji (twelve years) one can ascend in flight. Those who are clear-minded easily comprehend it; those who are dull find it hard to practice. Cultivate by following the light of heaven, and breathe so as to nurture pure Qi. The breath passes in and out of the Mysterious Female (Xuanpin)—the wondrous portal through which heaven, earth, and the myriad things are generated and transformed, often also indicating the root of breathing and cultivation—seeming at once present and absent. Unbroken and continuous, the foundation is deep and firm.

Everyone possesses Jing; when Jing is abundant it transforms into Shen. Each Shen has its Qi; when the Qi unite, one becomes a perfected being. If the true realm has not been reached, all that is said is only a name provisionally set up. Shen can enter into stone and can also make the body fly; enter water and one does not drown, enter fire and one is not burned. Shen arises by relying on bodily form; Jing grows full by relying on Qi. Form and Shen neither wither nor decay, remaining evergreen like the green pine. The three grades—Shen, Qi, and Jing—are originally one principle, and their subtlety is hard to put into words. When they gather they appear; when they scatter they vanish. The seven orifices communicate with one another, and each orifice is luminous. A holy radiance like the sun and moon shines upon the Golden Court (Jinting), the palace where immortals dwell. Once obtained, it can be maintained for long, and one naturally feels the body grow light. The Qi of Great Harmony (Taihe) fills the whole body, and the bones seem to turn into clear, cool fine jade. Obtain the elixir (dan) and one becomes spiritually responsive; fail to obtain it and one declines. The elixir within the body is neither white nor green. Recite it ten thousand times, and the wondrous principle becomes clear of itself.

Next, chant the sacred titles, read aloud the memorial, and then recite “xianglai” (a ritual phrase meaning to look back and take up what has preceded).

“The foregoing invocation and blessing of the seventeen precious lamps of compassionate light: the body naturally grows light. Great Harmony fills one, and the bones turn into clear, cool fine jade. Obtain the elixir and one becomes spiritually responsive; fail to obtain it and one declines. The elixir within the body is neither white nor green. Recite it ten thousand times, and the wondrous principle becomes clear of itself.”

Next, chant the sacred titles, read aloud the memorial, and then recite “xianglai.”

The rite of prayer and merit for the Seventeen Lamps of Compassionate Light, as described above, has now been brought to completion. Reverently we say that the Dao (the Way) depends on people to be carried forward, which is why we expound its teachings according to the scriptures. Likewise, those who would carry the Dao forward must first make its teachings clear and explain the Jing (scriptures). The scriptures set out the proper duties of cultivation, while the precious lamps reveal the method of compassionate light. This lets us know that the propagation and elucidation of the Dao cannot be separated from human effort.

By virtue of affinities accumulated in the past, we have been fortunate to receive the illumination of compassionate light. Now, standing before the seventeen precious lamps, we chant praises of their merit and gaze upon the manifested form of the Celestial Sovereign, wishing that all living beings throughout heaven and earth may bathe in the grace of the high heavens. We bow in homage and take refuge in the Great Dao of Wuji (the Limitless), invoking the name of the "Celestial Worthy of Compassionate Light Shining Far and Wide" and praising his inconceivable merit.

Here, the "Seventeen Lamps of Compassionate Light" refers to the seventeen lamps offered during the ritual, and "bowing in homage and taking refuge" means expressing reverence and turning toward the Dao and its teachings through acts of prostration.