《黄箓救苦十斋转经仪》

This incense arises through the nurturing transformation of Heaven and Earth and gathers the quintessential radiance of the sun and moon. It holds the patterns by which the Five Phases (Wuxing) generate and transform, and it gives forth every kind of fragrance. The deities of the many heavens rejoice, and the myriad holy ones descend upon the ritual altar. The incense is now lit in the censer and offered to the supremely true and unsurpassed Treasure of the Dao (the Way)—the Celestial Worthy of Myriad Longevity of the Mysterious Capital (Xuandu Wanshou Tianzun). By the merit of burning this incense, we pray that the state be at peace and the sage sovereign long-lived, with a lifespan as enduring as the North Star and as unbroken as the Southern Mountains; that auspicious omens answer in accord with Heaven’s mandate; and that Huaxia and the lands of the four directions long be bathed in a rich and sincere moral influence.

This incense receives the numinous Qi (vital energy) of Heaven, its source hidden deep in the Moon Palace. Its power fills the Nine Heavens and is said to be able to call souls back; its fragrant breath spreads through the eight directions and is said to be able to restore life. The incense is now lit in the censer and offered to the supremely true and unsurpassed Treasure of the Scripture (Jing)—the Celestial Worthy of Great Unity Who Relieves Suffering (Taiyi Jiuku Tianzun). By the merit of burning this incense, may the work of deliverance at the purification altar be accomplished, so that the deceased so-and-so being recommended for salvation, together with the many souls jointly recommended, may all leave the dark underworld and ascend together to the Land of Lasting Joy; and may blessings descend upon the living, with good fortune continuing to later generations.

The numinous Qi of this incense rises over the Five Sacred Mountains, and auspicious Qi pervades the Nine Heavens and the Ten Earths. It is incense brought to completion by cultivating the Dao and accumulating De (Virtue/Power), and it extends throughout the pure and tranquil realms of the immortals. The incense is now lit in the censer and offered to the supremely true and unsurpassed Treasure of the Master (Shi)—the Celestial Worthy of the Ten Directions Who Relieves Suffering (Shifang Jiuku Tianzun). By the merit of burning this incense, may deliverance reach the many souls who, in the Three Paths and Six Destinies and in the Ten Palaces and Nine Darknesses, are lost in benefit and harm, gain and loss, and cycle between birth and death. May they, amid that long darkness of sorrow and suffering, all receive the grace of the Three Treasures and the power of the compassionate vows of the Celestial Worthies, leave defilement behind, and realize the realm of purity, emptiness, and luminous clarity.

All those present should be reverent and sincere.

The Three Refuges; the seat is spread and praise is offered. (“The Three Refuges” means taking refuge in the Three Treasures of the Dao, the Scripture, and the Master; “Spreading the Seat and Praise” is the segment of the rite in which the ritual seat is arranged and verses of praise are chanted.)

The Dao (the Way) is mysterious and profound, difficult to exhaust in words. The grace of the Great Dao is vast and universally saves all beings. The Celestial Worthy Who Relieves Suffering, bearing the name “Great Compassion,” occupies the honored station of the Eastern Pole. He sprinkles sweet dew so that beings under torment may find cool relief, and he sends forth the light of grace, illuminating both the dark underworld and the human world. Wherever there is need, he transforms and appears; responding to the conditions of living beings, he manifests in order to rescue life and guide them onward. Settled in stillness, he yet responds and transforms as the occasion requires, exercising mysterious spiritual powers with a compassionate heart. All beings abide with him in one body, and the whole world receives his grace.

He proclaims the teachings of the Jing (scriptures) and appears in transformation throughout the worlds of the ten directions, saving the suffering souls of the dead so that they may transcend the Three Realms. He leads beings away from the pain brought by the seven destinies and the six passions, and stills the bitterness of falling into the three paths and enduring a darkness as long as the nine nights. Gathering primordial Qi (vital energy) and merit, he enables the souls of the dead to enjoy the great blessings of heaven; going to their aid according to their conditions, he brings the cries of suffering in the hells to rest. He receives and guides those who have lost their way, broadly opens the gates of all wonders, and raises up beings of every kind so that all may enter the Dao of the Great Vehicle.

Now, for the ritual sponsor so-and-so, this Zhaijiao (purification ritual)—a Daoist rite for invoking blessings and delivering the dead—is held in order to commend and deliver the soul of the deceased so-and-so, and a sacred altar is established according to solemn ritual forms. In the ceremony the grand Keyi (liturgy) of the Three Caverns (Dongzhen, Dongxuan, and Dongshen, the three great categories of Daoist scriptures) is enacted, and the precious scriptural treasury is chanted and revolved for ten days. We pray that Heaven look down and take notice, delivering the soul of the dead so that it may ascend. May the deceased so-and-so listen with wholehearted attention to the teaching of the true scriptures, at once leave the realm of suffering, personally receive this grace, and ascend the ranks of the immortals.

May also those souls of the dead who are confined and bound, together with beings who formed enmities while alive and remain entangled after death, all obtain relief; sharing in this vast grace, may they depart completely from the cycle of rebirth. We now ask the fellow Daoists of this altar each to attend with sincere reverence. Purify mind and intention so that the heart and Shen (spirit) grow clear and bright, hold the body upright, concentrate right mindfulness, and, following the scriptural method in full, carry out the rite in proper order.

Upon entering the altar, kneel facing east and present the memorial.

The ritual master styles himself “juwei” (one holding ritual office), prostrates with a heart of reverence, and once again memorializes the Jade Treasure Imperial Sovereign Celestial Worthy of the East, together with the Perfected Youths Who Save from Suffering of the Eastern Quarter and all the True Sages. The holy assembly is respectfully asked to look down in compassion.

The Celestial Worthy dwells in the Zhen position of the Bagua (Eight Trigrams), which symbolizes the East, and the growth of all things depends upon his transforming nurture. In spring, Yang Qi (vital energy) is set in motion, and all things are likewise nourished by it. Now the Golden Elixir (Jindan) begins to circulate, symbolizing the generative arising of the De (Virtue/Power) of Wood and the flourishing of the myriad things. The Spirit Office—the divine bureau that governs affairs of the spirit realm—is therefore respectfully asked to send down a proclamation and to issue a talismanic mandate to the Qu Bureau. Without the Celestial Worthy’s vast power of transformation, that mysterious grace could scarcely be reached and received. He is respectfully invited to come, riding a green palanquin and a cinnabar carriage, to oversee and witness the assembly of the Ten Perfected, and to bring to completion the merit of the scripture (Jing) preserved in the precious casket. The ritual master respectfully presents the petition, and the ritual assembly devoutly joins in the invitation.

Thereupon the rites of inviting the sages, scattering flowers, chanting the Hymn of Karmic Destiny, and ascending the seat are performed, and the first recitation of the scripture begins.

It is said that in the Garden of the Fragrant Grove the scripture of salvation from suffering is constantly expounded, and that in the Palace of the Eastern Pole the grace of delivering all beings is widely bestowed. The Celestial Worthy Who Saves from Suffering is great in kindness and compassion: whenever beings hold a prayer in mind, he extends his mercy; when he hears a cry for help, he comes in response. He has made a vast vow to save living beings, and through countless millions of kalpas he has already delivered innumerable people far and wide.

Now the ritual assembly ascends the seat, recites the wondrous scripture in unison, and intones the sacred name of the Celestial Worthy, so as to commend and deliver the souls of the dead on behalf of the patron of the Zhaijiao (purification ritual). By the wholesome affinity and merit of reciting scripture and praying for blessings, the sins accumulated by those souls over successive lifetimes are removed, so that they may be spared examination by the Eastern Office of Scrutiny and Verification—the divine bureau that investigates the sinful karma of the dead—and may proceed directly to the pure and tranquil Realm of the Limitless. The ritual assembly devoutly recites the scripture with one voice.

When the recitation of the scripture is finished, they proceed once more toward the East.

Holding ritual office, I address the holy perfected ones. Relying on their numinous response, their radiance shines throughout the worlds of the ten directions. Hearing living beings cry out for help, they follow the sound and go to relieve suffering; may this vast vow of compassion endure for a hundred million kalpas. We earnestly beg the holy perfected ones to extend their compassionate protection—how could we dare forget to take refuge? The pure assembly present here, with one voice, intones the wondrous scripture (Jing) and praises the holy title of the Celestial Worthy, and one recitation has now been completed. Respectfully, on behalf of the patron of the purification rite, we commend the souls of the departed for deliverance, wishing that they may pass into the realm of the immortals. We beg the holy perfected ones, by their divine authority and wondrous power, to rescue the departed souls from the lost paths of sin and suffering, so that they may leave the dark lands of the east and ascend to the wondrous realm of the Flower Grove, pure, still, and wise. All the true talismans of the Most High (Fulu) are solemnly proclaimed here.

The talismanic mandates are read aloud, the passes and dispatches are cleared, and the holy perfected ones are reverently sent off.

Kneeling memorial to the South.

Holding ritual office, in fear and trembling I knock my head and bow again, memorializing the Celestial Worthy of Mysterious Perfection and Myriad Blessings of the South, the Perfected One Who Saves from Suffering in the Southern Quarter, together with the countless divine youths and hosts of the perfected. We respectfully ask the holy perfected ones, in their compassion, to look down and examine us. We look up to the radiance of their Virtue/Power (De), which, like sunlight shining from the position of Li among the Eight Trigrams (Bagua), brightly illumines both near and far. In the south they proclaim and spread the teaching, and by divine power they transform and nurture the netherworld. We earnestly beg that the Great Medicine be refined once more within the furnace, so that the withered remains of the dead beneath the earth may regain life. We respectfully pray the numinous offices to issue their commands, and therefore present the talismanic mandates to the bureaus of the netherworld. Were it not for reliance upon the vast creative power of the holy perfected ones, such mysterious grace could hardly be received. We respectfully invite the holy perfected ones to ride in the green palanquin and the cinnabar carriage and descend to the place where the Ten Perfected assemble. May the precious scripture cases and ritual satchels bring to completion the merit of the second recitation of the scripture. Your servant presumes to address their holy majesty; the earnestness of this prayer is beyond words.

The ritual assembly, with devout sincerity, respectfully invites the holy perfected ones to descend.

The holy ones are invited, flowers are scattered, and they ascend the throne.

The second recitation of the scripture is performed.

With reverence it is heard: the Primordial Supreme Emperor, a venerated deity of the Daoist tradition, once expounded the essentials of the teaching in the Garden of the Fragrant Grove to the Perfected One Fajie, praising the Greatly Compassionate and Benevolent One. He said that if the souls of the dead in the Ninefold Darkness—the depths of the unseen world—are to be delivered, one must devote oneself wholly to mindful recollection, concentrate the spirit in visualization, and intone the praise of the venerable deities.

May the vast merit of delivering the dead descend and look with favor upon the sincerity of taking refuge at this moment. Now, ascending the altar of the Jing (scripture/classic), the assembly with one voice chants the mysterious scriptures and praises the honored divine titles. Respectfully, for the ritual patron So-and-so, we lend our aid in recommending and delivering the soul of the deceased So-and-so. May the wondrous power of good causes efface the offenses accumulated through hundreds of millions of kalpas, so that the soul of the dead may escape examination by the southern office of scrutiny and judgment and proceed directly to the realm of the True Elder of the Infinite. The ritual assembly, devoutly and with one voice, recites the scripture.

When the recitation of the scripture is finished, one proceeds once more to the “Bu quarter.” (The “Bu quarter” is suspected to be a particular direction or moment within the liturgy; the original text does not make this clear.)

The officiant, who presides over the rite, presents a memorial to the Sagely and Luminous: Heavenly Qi (vital energy) returns to one’s own person, so that one comes to resonate with the distinctive form bestowed by the spontaneous; manifestations numberless as dust and sand make plain the differing causes and conditions of transformation. Merit is beyond all measure, and the heart that takes refuge is utterly sincere. The pure assembly before us, with one voice, recites the scriptures of the masters and the perfected and praises the honored divine titles, and this has now been completed twice. Respectfully, for the ritual patron So-and-so, we recommend and raise the soul of the deceased, wishing that it may be born into the realm of the immortals.

We humbly pray that the soul of the deceased may receive the protection of resplendent numinous light and, by the rite of soul-deliverance, proceed to the Cinnabar Realm; that it suffer neither coercion nor restraint, and forever pass beyond the dark and obscure region of the South; and that it soon attain carefree freedom and ascend directly into the upright and majestic realm of transformation. All the true talismans of the Most High are now to be read aloud with reverence.

The Fulu (talismans and registers) are proclaimed, the pass documents are forwarded, and the sacred presence is reverently escorted forth.

Kneeling, a memorial is presented facing the West.

With a heart of reverence, the disciple bows and petitions the Celestial Worthy of Great Wonder and Utmost Extremity of the West, the Perfected Who Saves from Suffering of the Western Quarter, the attendant youths, and all the host of the Perfected, humbly begging the sages, in their compassion, to look down and take notice.

The West belongs to Dui of the Bagua (Eight Trigrams) and symbolizes the Qi (vital energy) of autumn Metal. This scripture is now expounded in order to harmonize the workings by which Heaven and Earth operate and bring forth and nourish the myriad things, and to accord with the changes of the four seasons, awakening all beings to birth, growth, transformation, and nurture. Living beings receive this grace. After the scripture has been recited three times, report is respectfully made to the divine offices that govern the spirit realm, and talismanic mandates are issued to the dark bureaus in every quarter. Without the vast transformative power of the Celestial Worthy, it would be difficult to move and commune with the netherworld or to receive this mysterious grace. The sacred presence is respectfully invited to ride the green carriage and the cinnabar chariot and descend to the place where the ten Perfected gather; it is also prayed that the merit of the scripture be brought to full completion through three recitations. The disciple presumes to look up and address the majesty of Heaven, praying with an earnest heart. The ritual assembly, in devotion, respectfully performs the invitation.

The sages are invited, flowers are scattered, and the seat is ascended.

The Third Recitation and Performance

We have heard that the merit of the true scripture of salvation from suffering extends throughout the nine earths (the netherworld), and that the precious title of the Compassionate Worthy is to be spread universally through the ten directions. It can widely rescue and deliver living beings, and praise of its merit can scarcely be exhausted. Now, ascending the scripture seat, the ritual assembly with one voice recites the true scripture and proclaims the sacred name of the Celestial Worthy, praying for blessings on behalf of the patron of the Zhai (purification ritual) and assisting the recommendation and deliverance of the departed souls, so that they may pass on to the realm of the immortals. By the wondrous power of this good cause of reciting the scripture, the sins and faults of successive lifetimes are removed, so that the departed souls may be spared the examination and scrutiny of the western netherworld and proceed directly to the Land of the Dharma Treasure of the Limitless. The ritual assembly, in devotion, recites the scripture in unison.

When the recitation is complete, once more by the wondrous power of this good cause the sins and faults of successive lifetimes are removed, so that the departed souls may be spared the examination and scrutiny of the western netherworld and proceed directly to the Land of the Dharma Treasure of the Limitless. The ritual assembly, in devotion, recites the scripture in unison.

When the recitation is complete, proceed once more to the West.

Invoking the Holy Perfected: we pray that the Holy Perfected may widely rescue and deliver the souls of the dead, spread auspicious Qi (vital energy), and seal the gates leading into the dark realm of death; that they may ferry across the beings of the Three Realms, raise clouds of joyful blessing, and open for them the gate of rebirth in the next world. We look up to the lofty vastness of holy transformation and pray with the utmost sincerity of our hearts. The pure assembly present recites in unison the true Jing (scripture/classic) and praises the holy titles of the Celestial Worthies; three recitations have already been completed. Now, on behalf of the patron of the Zhaijiao (purification ritual), we commend and deliver the souls of the dead, praying that the departed souls may be reborn in the realm of the immortals. We respectfully wish that the light of Heaven may shine upon them and that grace may spread far and wide, so that the souls of the dead may leave the dark realm of the West and ascend into a land of peace and bliss, supreme excellence, and solemn beauty. All the true talismans of the Most High, the Fulu (talismans and registers), are now carefully proclaimed.

The numinous talismans are read aloud, the passes and barriers are opened, and the Holy Perfected are respectfully sent off.

Kneeling and memorializing while facing north:

The one of such-and-such office (the ritual master stating his own title and rank), in fear and trembling, knocks his head and bows twice, and petitions the Mysterious Supreme Jade Dawn Celestial Worthy of the North and the Perfected Youth of the North Who Saves from Suffering. All the true talismans of the Most High are now carefully proclaimed.

The numinous talismans are read aloud, the passes and barriers are opened, and the Holy Perfected are respectfully sent off.

Kneeling and memorializing while facing north:

The one of such-and-such office, in fear and trembling, knocks his head and bows twice, and petitions the Mysterious Supreme Jade Dawn Celestial Worthy of the North, the Perfected Youth of the North Who Saves from Suffering, and the innumerable hosts of the Perfected. We respectfully ask the Holy Perfected, in their compassion, to look down and examine. The Qi of ultimate Yin is thereby set in motion, and abundant De (Virtue/Power) nurtures all things within the Palace of Kan (in the Bagua (Eight Trigrams), the position representing the North, Water, and Yin). All things thereby come to rest, and living beings likewise obtain quiet nourishment. Now the scripture has been recited to the fourth time, and grace is widely bestowed upon living beings. We respectfully pray that this matter be reported to the numinous offices, and numinous talismans are therefore issued to reach through to the dark bureaus. Unless we rely upon the vast transformative power of the Holy Perfected, it will be difficult to call forth a response to this mysterious grace. We respectfully invite the Holy Perfected to come with azure-green ceremonial regalia and vermilion carriages, to descend and oversee the assembly of the Ten Perfected; and we ask that the precious volumes in their jade cases be opened, so that the merit of reciting the scripture four times may be brought to completion. Your servant presumes upon the holy majesty in setting this forth, praying earnestly within the heart. The ritual assembly, devout and reverent, respectfully offers this invitation.

The Holy Perfected are respectfully invited; flowers are scattered, and they ascend the seat.

The fourth recitation of the scripture is proclaimed.

I have respectfully heard that the Dadong Miaojing universally delivers the boundless hosts of suffering beings, and that Qingxuan Shangdi—the deity of salvation from suffering revered in Daoism—ever holds compassion and is never remiss. His grace extends to all living beings, and the power of his vow to save them is vast without limit.

Now the seat is ascended for the recitation of scripture. The assembly recites the wondrous scripture in unison and praises the sacred titles of the Celestial Worthies. This rite is performed for the zhai sponsor, praying for the universal salvation of boundless suffering beings and inviting Qingxuan Shangdi to protect them with compassion and bestow his grace upon all. With one heart the assembly recites the scripture and intones the sacred titles, recommending the souls of the deceased for deliverance on behalf of the zhai sponsor. It is prayed that, through the wholesome causes and wholesome power formed by the recitation, the sins and faults accumulated by these souls over successive lives may be removed, so that they may be spared the scrutiny and interrogation of the underworld offices of the North and proceed directly to the Boundless Realm of Salvation from Suffering. The ritual assembly devoutly recites in unison.

When the recitation is finished, all proceed once more to the North to pay homage.

The officiant, announcing his own ritual office, respectfully invites the holy perfected. The scripture says: the fundamental substance of all things communicates with emptiness and comes into being by relying on the Qi (vital energy) of Primordial Chaos—the original Qi of the time before Heaven and Earth were divided. Primordial Qi accords with the natural and bestows life and light upon all things. All beings who take refuge and turn toward the gate of the Dao (the Way) are compassionately saved by the holy perfected.

The pure assembly present has recited the wondrous scripture in unison and praised the sacred titles, having already completed four full recitations. Now, mourning and recommending the souls of the deceased on behalf of the zhai sponsor, we pray that these souls may be reborn in the immortal realms. We respectfully pray that they may eliminate the karmic obstructions created by body, mind, and mouth, give rise to the light of wisdom, leave the dark regions of the North, and ascend directly to the realm of peace, truth, and joy. The True Talisman of the Most High, a sacred Fulu (talismans and registers) of Daoism, is now solemnly proclaimed.

The Fulu is read aloud, the official dispatches are forwarded, and the holy perfected are respectfully sent off.

Kneeling toward the northeast, a memorial is presented.

The officiant, in sincere fear and reverence, knocks his head and bows again, memorializing the Supreme Holy Celestial Worthy Who Delivers Beings to Immortality of the Northeast, the Perfected Who Saves from Suffering of the Northeast, the divine youths, and the countless hosts of perfected sages. We respectfully hope that the holy perfected will compassionately extend their protection…

The Fulu is read aloud, the official dispatches are forwarded, and the holy perfected are respectfully sent off.

Kneeling toward the northeast, a memorial is presented.

The officiant of the stated rank—so the one who presides over the rite designates himself—filled with reverent awe and trepidation, kowtows and bows again, and respectfully memorializes, inviting the Supreme Celestial Worthy of the Northeast Who Delivers the Immortals, the Perfected One of the Northeast Who Saves from Suffering, the attendant youths, and the boundless host of the perfected. We earnestly beg the holy worthies, in their compassion, to look down and take notice of this place.

The great Dao (the Way) of Heaven and Earth contains and stores the unitary Qi (vital energy), and the mysterious work of creation unfolds into the myriad phenomena of the eight directions. The course of Qian proceeds, and Gen Mountain—one of the directional positions of the Bagua (Eight Trigrams), referring to the northeast—each rests securely in its place. So that all living beings may receive blessing and protection, we now recite and expound this scripture (Jing) through five recitations. We respectfully report to the spiritual offices, the divine bureaus charged with the affairs of the gods, and issue talismanic commands to the winding bureaus of the dark underworld. Without the vast transformative power of the holy worthies, it would be difficult to stir and communicate their mysterious grace. We earnestly beg the holy worthies to come riding in azure-green carriages, to inspect and attend the gathering of the Ten Perfected, to open the jade-green cases and precious scripture caskets, and to bring to completion the merit of reciting the scripture five times. Your servant presumes upon the holy majesty, praying earnestly in the heart; the ritual assembly is devout, and we respectfully invite them once more.

Invite the holy ones, scatter flowers, and ascend the seats.

Recite and expound the fifth time.

It is heard that the Compassionate Worthy of Taiyi, the deity of Supreme Unity, personally holds the scripture case and brings to completion the merit of reciting the scripture five times. Your servant presumes upon the holy majesty, praying earnestly in the heart; the ritual assembly is devout, and we respectfully invite them once more.

Invite the holy ones, scatter flowers, and ascend the seats.

Recite and expound the fifth time.

It is heard that the Compassionate Worthy of Taiyi sits upright in the Left Bureau of Azure Mystery, a divine bureau of the celestial realm, and that the wondrous depths of Dongxuan—the profound principles of the Dongxuan scriptural teaching—can universally save and deliver the souls of the dead who have sunk into the dark underworld. All who take refuge and offer reverent worship will surely obtain salvation. Now the ritual assembly ascends to the scripture seats and, with one voice, chants the wondrous scripture and praises the holy titles of the Celestial Worthies, performing the rite for the patron of the fast so as to recommend and raise up the souls of the dead. Relying on the wondrous power of good deeds and their karmic conditions, they wipe away the offenses of successive lifetimes, so that the souls of the dead may be spared pursuit by the Bureau of Examination and Verification of the Northeast—the divine bureau in the underworld that investigates and checks the souls of the dead—and may proceed directly to the Realm of Wondrous Causes Without Limit. The ritual assembly, devout, recites the scripture together.

When the recitation of the scripture is finished, they proceed once more toward the northeast.

The officiant of the stated rank memorializes the holy worthies: the way of the immortals is remote and profound, beginning from the unitary Qi; the vast law shines throughout the four directions and makes manifest the scriptures of the Three Caverns (Dongzhen/Dongxuan/Dongshen), the three classifications of the Daoist classics.

With reverence we express the sincerity of our hearts, praying that we may receive the grace of compassion. The Daoist assembly present recites the wondrous scripture in unison and intones the honored sacred titles; five recitations have already been completed. Now, for the patron of the retreat, a memorial rite is performed to mourn the departed souls and to pray that they may pass into the realm of the immortals. We earnestly beseech the holy perfected ones to erase the karmic offenses of the departed from the Black Register (the ledger that records transgressions) and to enter their names in the Cinnabar Book (the roster that records the register of immortals), so that they may leave the dark and obscure land of the northeast and ascend to the Azure Primordial realm of the World of Everlasting Joy. All True Talismans of the Most High—the Fulu (talismans and registers) issued by command of the Most High—are now solemnly proclaimed.

The Fulu are read aloud, the pass documents are opened, and the holy perfected ones are respectfully escorted forth.

Facing the southeast, we kneel and present our report.

The holder of ritual office (thus the Daoist priest conducting the rite designates himself), in fear and trembling, knocks his head to the ground and bows again, petitioning for the Talisman of the Supreme Perfected, which is now solemnly proclaimed.

The Fulu are read aloud, the pass documents are opened, and the holy perfected ones are respectfully escorted forth.

Facing the southeast, we kneel and present our report.

The holder of ritual office, in fear and trembling, knocks his head to the ground and bows again, and petitions the Celestial Worthy of the Southeast Who Cherishes Life and Delivers Destiny, the Perfected Youths of the Southeastern Quarter Who Rescue from Suffering, and the boundless host of the perfected (the multitude of holy perfected ones). We respectfully beg the holy perfected ones to look down with compassion and clearly examine this matter.

Beneath the Cinnabar-Blossom Towers (the palaces where immortals and perfected ones dwell), Brahma Qi (vital energy), the sacred primordial breath, condenses into halls. In the courtyards of the Crimson Prefecture, the wind of Xun (the wind of the southeast) blows upon all things, warming them so that they grow. The hundred grains each know the direction they ought to face, and the Three Mountains display the wondrous sights of numinous transformation. Grace and virtue spread without limit; the meritorious works of the true sages match them, yet they do not claim the merit as their own. The scripture has now been recited for the sixth time, and the teaching reaches everyone. We respectfully pray the Numinous Offices (the divine bureaus that administer the affairs of the spirit realm) to issue the proclamation, and therefore we dispatch Fulu to the offices of the dark underworld. Without the vast transformative power of the holy perfected ones, it would be difficult to come into communion with this mysterious grace.

We respectfully invite the holy perfected ones who ride in green carriages and cinnabar chariots to descend and preside over the assembly of the Ten Perfected. We also respectfully ask that the precious caskets of gemstone (the treasure cases that hold scriptures and Fulu) be opened, so that the merit of the sixth recitation of the scripture may be brought to completion. Your servant ventures to address the sacred majesty, praying earnestly in his heart. The ritual assembly is likewise devout and reverent, and hereby respectfully extends this invitation.

We respectfully invite the holy perfected ones to descend, to scatter flowers, and to ascend their seats.

The ceremonial recitation of the sixth round now begins.

With reverence it is said: the vast ordinances of Daoism depend upon the compassion of the Heavenly Worthy Who Saves from Suffering at the Eastern Extremity; the broad, spontaneous Qi (vital energy) of the Dao (the Way) is stored within the numinous and subtle meaning of the Dongxuan Jing (scripture of the Cavern of Mystery). Such kindness cannot be praised to the full; we can only take refuge with earnest sincerity. Now the ritual masters enter their seats for recitation and together read the wondrous scripture and chant the honored titles, delivering the souls of the dead on behalf of the zhai host—the person who presides over the Zhaijiao (purification ritual). May the power of good deeds efface the offenses accumulated through successive lives, so that the departed may avoid the underworld offices of the southeast that oversee investigation and judgment and proceed directly to the peaceful, boundless realm of the immortals. With devout hearts, the ritual assembly recites the scripture in unison.

When the recitation is finished, they go once more to the southeast.

The ritual master addresses the holy worthies: purple auspicious clouds spread densely, signifying the descent of the divine worthies of the Three Treasures; Fanqi—the pure, primordial Qi of which Daoism speaks—extends everywhere, so as to settle the souls throughout the Nine Heavens. Mysterious spiritual power is beyond measure, yet a heart of utmost sincerity is sure to call forth a response. The assembly now present has recited the scripture together and chanted the honored titles, completing six full recitations. On behalf of the zhai host we now deliver the souls of the dead, praying that the deceased may have form and Shen (spirit) in harmony, that their hun and po souls may rise, leaving the dark region of the southeast and entering the solemn, pure realm of wondrous stillness. All the true talismans of the Most High are hereby reverently proclaimed.

The talismanic mandates are read aloud, the documents of passage are forwarded, and the holy worthies are respectfully escorted away.

A memorial is presented while kneeling in the southwest.

(Here the original repeats the closing sentence of the preceding passage together with the words “kneeling memorial in the southwest”; the text that follows appears to be missing.)

The officiant of established rank—the ritual master who presides over the memorial—filled with awe and trepidation, kowtows and bows twice, respectfully memorializing the Celestial Worthy of Great Numinous Vacuity of the Southwest, the Perfected and the Youths Who Relieve Suffering of the Southwest, and the countless perfected saints. He earnestly begs the holy sages, in their compassion, to condescend to hear the memorial offered here.

Heaven and Earth and Yin-Yang have differentiated, each governing the direction that corresponds to it. Heavy Yin Qi (vital energy) settles upon the earth of Kun (the great earth) and condenses into a realm of utmost stillness. The earth bears the myriad beings and occupies the station of the honored elder; receiving in turn the Dao (the Way) of Heaven, it establishes the guiding norms. The text of the Jing (scripture) has already been recited seven times, and grace is widely bestowed upon all living beings. We respectfully entreat the Numinous Office—the divine bureau charged with the affairs of spirits—to transmit the edict, and on this account issue a Fulu mandate (talismans and registers) to the Curved Bureau of the Dark Underworld, the offices of the netherworld. Were it not for the vast creative power of the sages, the mysterious grace could hardly be stirred into communion. We respectfully invite the sages to ride the green carriage and the cinnabar chariot, to come and oversee the assembly of the Ten Perfected (ten perfected saints); we ask that the lang-jade cases and precious scriptures—the treasure caskets in which the scriptures are kept—be opened, so that the merit of the seven recitations of the scripture may be brought to full completion. Your servant presumes upon the sacred majesty; the earnest prayer within the heart cannot be fully told. The ritual assembly, with devout hearts, carefully invites the holy presence to descend.

Invite the sages, scatter flowers, and ascend the seat.

Carry out the seventh recitation of the scripture.

We have heard: the void shines with brilliant light, as we look up to receive the grace of the Great Dao; the dark and far-reaching realms likewise truly receive the favor of compassion. Universally deliver the living beings who suffer, and invite the immortal realms to descend.

Invite the sages, scatter flowers, and ascend the seat.

Carry out the seventh recitation of the scripture.

We have heard: the void shines with brilliant light, as we look up to receive the grace of the Great Dao; the dark and far-reaching realms likewise truly receive the favor of compassion. Living beings who suffer are thereby universally delivered, and together they ascend to the immortal realms. Now, ascending to the scripture seat, all with one voice chant the wondrous scripture and praise the sacred title of the Celestial Worthy. We respectfully pray blessings for the patron of the Zhai (purification rite), and lend aid in commending and delivering the souls of the dead, so that they may pass into rebirth in the realm of the immortals. By the wondrous power of good conditions, the sins and faults of a hundred million kalpas are removed, and the souls of the dead are spared detention by the yin offices of the Southwest that examine and pass judgment, proceeding directly to the Kingdom of Radiant Perfection Without Limit. The ritual assembly, in devout sincerity, recites the scripture together.

When the recitation of the scripture is complete, they proceed once more toward the Southwest.

All the participants in the purification rite (Zhai) respectfully invite the holy perfected. Reciting the numinous and wondrous scripture can wash away the defilements of the heart; proclaiming the sacred titles of the Celestial Worthies can also make the mind and spirit (Shen) of those who hear them still purer. Nothing in the scripture lies beyond salvation, and where utmost sincerity calls forth a response, every prayer may be answered.

The pure Daoist assembly present, speaking with one voice, has already recited this wondrous scripture a full seven times. At the charge of the rite’s sponsor, they offer a memorial for the deceased, praying that the departed souls may be reborn in the realm of the immortals. We humbly pray that the roots of the deceased’s karmic offenses be cleansed away and their spirit-consciousness be clear and at peace; that they leave the dark and obscure realm of the southwest and ascend to the solemn and beautiful realm of wondrous bliss. All the True Talismans of the Most High (Fulu, the talismanic mandates invited and proclaimed in Daoist ritual) are now carefully announced.

Proclaiming the talismans, presenting the memorials and passes, and sending off the holy ones

Kneeling to memorialize, facing the northwest

The entire company of the rite, in reverent fear, kowtows and bows once more, memorializing the Limitless Taihua Celestial Worthy of the Northwest, the Perfected Ones and Youths Who Save from Suffering of the Northwest, and the countless hosts of perfected saints. We respectfully ask the holy assembly to look down in compassion and examine us.

The primordial Qi (vital energy) of Heaven and Earth opens into brightness and clarity, and the vast celestial images pour forth their light. Brahma-Qi (Fanqi, the pure primordial Qi of which Daoism speaks) flows and blends in harmony; a clear wind surges and swells, establishing the guiding order of Heaven and Earth. Yin and Yang (Yin-Yang), cold and heat, each have their proper bounds. The holy perfected preside over the workings of Yin-Yang; and since they hold the authority to reward good and punish evil, they should determine retribution according to the weight of karmic offense.

The scripture has now been recited a full eight times; may its grace extend to all living beings. We respectfully announce this to the Numinous Office (the divine bureau charged with affairs of the underworld) and accordingly issue talismanic mandates to the offices of the netherworld. Were it not for reliance on the vast transformative power of the holy perfected, such far-reaching mysterious grace could hardly be stirred to respond. We humbly pray that the holy perfected come, borne on green palanquins and cinnabar carriages, to preside over and witness the assembly of the Ten Perfected, and that the precious scripture scrolls and jeweled registers bring to completion the merit of reciting the scripture eight times.

The company of the rite presumes to look up to the holy majesty and prays with earnest hearts. The ritual assembly, with devout minds, carefully invites the holy perfected to descend.

Inviting the holy ones, scattering flowers, and ascending the seat

Performing the eighth recitation

We respectfully have heard: the grace of the Great Dao (Dao, the Way) is profound and abundant; true scriptures (Jing) are proclaimed to relieve suffering and distress; and even in the dark underworld, those who hear the holy names may be fortunate enough to attain transcendence and ascent. With devout reverence we do our utmost to pray for salvation. Now, ascending the scripture altar, the assembly recites the wondrous scriptures in unison and praises the venerable holy names, recommending and elevating the souls of the deceased on behalf of the patron of the purification ritual (Zhaijiao). May the power of wholesome conditions and of scriptural method eliminate the offenses these souls have accumulated over successive lifetimes, so that they may be spared interrogation by the nether offices of the northwest charged with examining karmic guilt, and proceed directly to the Realm of Limitless Deliverance from Suffering. The ritual assembly, sincere at heart, recites the scriptures with one voice.

When the recitation is complete, all face the northwest once more.

The officiant, declaring his own ritual office, respectfully invokes the holy perfected ones. We respectfully state: the offenses borne by the deceased souls are pitiable, and by the grace of the Dao they have fortunately been granted salvation; the resolve to save them has never ceased, and by reliance on scriptural method the souls of the dead obtain new life. Having sincerely turned toward the Way, they will surely receive the grace of transcendence and ascent. The pure assembly present has recited the wondrous scriptures in unison, and the recitation has now been completed eight times. On behalf of the patron of the purification ritual, all recommend and elevate the deceased souls, praying that they may be reborn in the immortal realm. We earnestly beseech that their former karmic obstructions be removed, so that their souls and spirits (Shen) may be clear, lucid, and at rest; that they may leave the dark and obscure realm of the northwest and ascend to the solemn Realm of Beneficent Stillness. All the True Talismans of the Most High—talismanic mandates conferred by the Daoist teaching to convey the divine will (Fulu, talismans and registers)—are now respectfully to be read out and made known.

The talismanic mandates are proclaimed, the official documents submitted to the relevant divine offices are forwarded, and the holy perfected ones are reverently escorted away.

The assembly faces upward, kneels, and presents its memorial.

In my ritual office (as the one presenting the memorial names himself), in fear and trembling I knock my head and make obeisance, and once more respectfully invite the Celestial Worthy, Radiant Emperor of the Jade Void Above, the Perfected Youths of the Upper Township Who Save from Suffering, and the host of perfected saints. I humbly beg their sagely illumination, in compassion, to look down upon us.

In the empty, mysterious, and wondrous realm, the holy perfected display vast and subtle merit; the clear and harmonious vital energy (Qi) in the azure void sets in motion the great vitality of spontaneous transformation. The merit of the perfected saints is profound and beyond measure; their loving-kindness and wisdom are boundless, reaching through heaven and earth and presiding over the movement of the stars. The scripture (Jing) has now been recited nine times, and it is right that living beings everywhere be delivered. We reverently entreat the divine offices that govern the spirit world to transmit the sacred command, and thus to issue talismanic mandates to the underworld bureaus of every quarter. Were it not for the vast transformative power of the holy perfected, this mysterious grace could hardly be stirred into response. We respectfully invite the holy perfected to ride in blue-green carriages and vermilion chariots, to descend and inspect the ritual assembly of the perfected saints of the ten directions, and to open the precious scripture cases and jeweled volumes, so that the merit of the ninefold recitation may be brought to completion.

I presume to memorialize their holy majesty. The earnest prayer within my heart cannot be fully set forth. The assembly, devout and reverent, respectfully invites the holy perfected to descend.

Invitation of the saints, scattering of flowers, and ascent to the seats (the holy perfected are welcomed, flowers are scattered in offering, and the holy perfected are invited to the altar to take their seats).

Performance of the ninth recitation (the rite of reciting the scripture for the ninth time is carried out).

It is taught that when the true classics spread through the world, it is like kindling a torch of the sacred teaching upon a darkened road; to praise the precious titles of the holy perfected is like launching a boat of compassion upon the sea of suffering. Whether in the human realm or in the heavens, all may be rescued and turn toward the true Way (Dao). Now the assembly ascends to the scripture seats, recites the wondrous scripture with one voice, and extols the holy titles in unison. This rite is reverently offered for the patron of the purification ritual, to deliver the souls of the departed. By the wondrous power of good deeds and of reciting the scripture, faults accumulated across a hundred million kalpas are removed, so that the departed souls may be spared the suffering of examination and inquisition from above and go directly to the Purple Empyrean Kingdom adorned with the seven treasures. The assembly, devout and reverent, recites the scripture together.

When the recitation is complete, they once more go above to present the memorial.

The officiant of the Zhai (purification rite), stating his name, respectfully invokes the holy perfected ones. The Dao (the Way) is without name and without self, yet it specially receives and guides all living beings; when the human heart is neither confused nor left idle, it can awaken to the true Dao. The subtle great Dao remains hard to fathom even across myriad kalpas, yet so long as the intention is sincere, it can move and commune with the divinities. The pure ritual assembly now present recites the wondrous Jing (scripture) in unison and praises the honored holy titles, having already completed nine recitations.

This is a rite held for the patron of the Zhai, drawing on the merit of scripture recitation to recommend and deliver the souls of the dead, in the hope that they may be reborn in the realm of the immortals. We pray that the dark fiery prisons be transformed into places of purity, and that the sword-trees bristling with blades become immortal realms; that the souls of the departed leave Youdu (the netherworld) and that their Shen (spirit) ascend to Biluo (the celestial realm). The True Talisman of the Most High—the Fulu (talismans and registers) used in Daoist rites to invite the divinities and transmit ritual commands—is now carefully proclaimed.

The Fulu are read aloud, the pass documents are transmitted, and the holy perfected ones are respectfully escorted.

Kneeling memorial addressed to the lower direction

The officiant of the Zhai, stating his name, in reverent awe and trepidation, kowtows and bows again, memorializing the True Sovereign, Heavenly Worthy of Dongshen (one of the Three Caverns), of the lower direction, the Perfected Ones and Divine Lads of the lower districts who save beings from suffering, and the measureless host of the perfected. We respectfully ask all the holy ones, in their compassion, to look down and examine.

The great earth bears the myriad things and, with generous and impartial trustworthy De (Virtue/Power), nurtures all living beings; profound virtuous conduct settles the myriad things and keeps their foundations firm for long. All of this relies on the power of the Dao, so that divine efficacy may be put to use. The scripture has been proclaimed to the beings of the Nine Springs (the depths of the netherworld), and the hearing of the teaching has already reached ten times. All of them receive the merit of the scripture and obtain salvation, entering the holy realm and transcending the ordinary. We therefore carefully pray that the Numinous Offices (the divine offices governing the affairs of the netherworld) issue the proclamation, and that the Fulu be sent down to the bureaus of the underworld. Without the vast transformative power of the holy perfected ones, it would be hard to call forth this mysterious grace. We pray that all the holy ones, riding green palanquins and cinnabar carriages, descend to oversee the assembly of the Ten Perfected; and that the langhan cases and jeweled caskets (precious scriptures and canonical texts) fully receive the merit of the ten recitations of the scripture. Your servant presumes upon the holy majesty, praying with an earnest heart; the ritual assembly likewise holds a devout mind, and hereby respectfully invites.

We respectfully invite the holy perfected ones to descend, scatter flowers, and take their seats.

Performance of the tenth recitation

Reverently we hear: The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, the Venerable Lord of the Azure Mystery (Qingxuan Laojun, a revered deity of the Daoist tradition who presides over the relief of suffering and the deliverance of the dead), sends down abundant dharma-rain to nourish all living beings and spreads clouds of compassion to shelter the myriad things. His grace extends through the nine earths, and his blessings cover the ten directions. Now the ritual assembly ascends the seat for reciting scripture. With one voice they intone the mysterious scriptures (Jing) and praise the honored sacred names. For the ritual sponsor we perform this purification ritual (Zhaijiao), and by the merit of reciting the scriptures we recommend the souls of the departed for deliverance. May the wondrous power of good causes efface the faults accumulated across successive kalpas, so that the departed souls may be spared examination and interrogation by the offices of the lower realm and proceed directly to the solemn and pure realm of the Pure Land. The ritual assembly, devout and of one mind, recites the scriptures together.

When the scripture has been recited, proceed once more to the lower altar position.

The ritual master in the ritual office (“juwei” being the form of self-designation used in Daoist ritual) invokes the holy perfected, saying with reverence: The Dao (the Way) of Ultimate Truth has already extended its transformative teaching, and the power of the Dao reaches every place. May the souls of the departed proceed directly to the solemn and pure realm of the Pure Land. The ritual assembly, devout and of one mind, recites the scriptures together.

When the scripture has been recited, proceed once more to the lower altar position.

The ritual master in the ritual office invokes the holy perfected, saying with reverence: The Dao of Ultimate Truth extends its transformative teaching, and the power of the Dao pervades everywhere without omission. The scriptures of the Three Caverns (Dongzhen, Dongxuan, and Dongshen, the system by which the Daoist scriptures are classified) are subtle beyond compare, and the power of divine majesty is vast in the extreme. Above, it reaches the Clear Capital and the Purple Palace (the immortal mansions of the celestial realm); below, it reaches the black soil and the Yellow Springs (the netherworld). All alike receive the grace of deliverance and ascent. The ritual assembly before us, with one voice, intones the mysterious scriptures and praises the honored sacred names, and the recitation has now been completed ten times. Now, for the ritual sponsor, we recommend the souls of the departed for deliverance and pray that they may be reborn in the realm of the immortals. May they condense primordial Qi (vital energy) and accumulate merit, so that they may ascend to the perfected and awaken to the Dao, transcend the sufferings of the Three Realms, and rise directly to the celestial realm of the Primordial Beginning. All the true talismans of the Most High (Fulu) are next to be proclaimed with care.

The talismanic mandate is read aloud, and the pass documents (documents used in Daoist ritual to communicate with the relevant divine offices) are transmitted.

The holy ones are sent off (reverently escorted).

Hymn in praise of the scripture.

A scripture (Jing) is a guide that leads a person onto a path. In cultivating the Way (Dao) and seeking truth, in saving the living, and in delivering the dead, there is in every case a broad, open path free of obstruction.

If this path is applied to the cultivation of essence (Jing) and vital energy (Qi), it can cause essence and Qi to reverse their course and rise into the brain. When essence and Qi in the brain are abundant, the body grows strong. This is a method of seeking the root of life, preventing essence and Qi from being dissipated, and nurturing life in order to attain longevity. It is also the marvel of this path as cultivated by earthly immortals (immortals who have succeeded in cultivation yet remain in the human world).

If this path is applied to the cultivation of spirit (Shen) and intention, one can observe oneself inwardly and draw the hearing inward, reaching a state of emptiness, stillness, and undivided concentration. The mind becomes clear and pure, as though the light of Heaven had appeared. This is the marvel of this path as cultivated by spirit immortals.

If this path is applied to Qi (the vital energy of life as understood in Daoism), one can gather, from within the Great Model, the “flying root” (a technical term of cultivation used in the original text) and breathe the Heaven of the Vacuous Sovereign (the celestial realm as understood in Daoism). Qi issues from the station of Qian (symbolizing Heaven) and enters the station of Kun (symbolizing Earth), congealing into a body without form or image, called the Celestial Worthy of Great Unity (Taiyi Tianzun). This is the marvel of this path as cultivated by celestial immortals.

To cultivate this path, one must cut off desire and sever the root of birth and death; remove deviant thoughts and falsity and enter the Gate of All Subtleties; let go of attachment to the myriad things and pass beyond the dust of the ordinary world. When Yang Qi first arises, one must also turn the Xuanji (the pivot of the circulation of Qi within the body) and, by means of this path, circulate talismanic Qi between one exhalation and one inhalation, so that golden liquid is poured over the crown and silver waves break open. After essence and Qi in the brain are abundant, one then joins the water of merit through the nose and mouth and swallows it back into the Huangting (a term of internal alchemy, Neidan, referring to the site in the abdomen that cultivation guards), where it congeals into the middle elixir. Continued practice over a long time fills the marrow, hardens the bones, and firms the whole body, so that one is not easily troubled by cold and heat or by illness. This is the verification of earthly-immortal cultivation.

To cultivate this path, one must observe inwardly and turn the hearing back, guarding the spirit of the True One within the Yellow Chamber of the upper field (the site of internal refinement in the head) and never leaving it for a moment. Even while responding to affairs as they arise and putting the body to use, one must always concentrate on warming and nourishing the Huangting. In stillness one guards mind and spirit; in movement the state of mind remains still. Stillness becomes luminous clarity, and after clarity one returns again to the upper field. When one has long settled in this way, a perfect white light illuminates the whole room. If someone comes seeking an audience or making a request, one knows it beforehand. This is the verification of spirit-immortal cultivation.

To cultivate this path, one ingests Qi at dawn and at night sits in stillness with the breath retained. What is called ingesting Qi is drawing in the essence of Great Harmony and the pure florescence of the two luminaries, the sun and the moon. When heavenly Qi enters the body, the hundred spirits within naturally become numinous and bright. When spirit and intention govern Qi, Qi can remain for a long time. After obtaining this method of breathing, one must continue to accumulate: accumulated water becomes a sea, and accumulated Qi becomes spirit. Spirit condenses and forms an embryo, and within the body it is as though another body had been born. This is the verification of celestial-immortal cultivation.

In cultivating this path, one must also contemplate one’s own mind as vast space and one’s body as emptiness, and, observing the myriad things, know that all of them are illusory transformations that will in the end perish. Nothing can shake one’s mind and spirit. Spirit and intention constantly abide in stillness. Over time, one can no longer tell whether the Great Void contains oneself or whether one has merged with the Great Void into a single whole. This is the marvel of this path of cultivation.

Therefore, if in cultivating this path one’s resolve slackens and one’s effort grows lax, one will obliterate the great Dao and be unable to complete the cultivation. If one looks to this path, yet people of the world do not actually cultivate it, its marvel cannot be made manifest; and if people of the world do not follow this path, they cannot verify the efficacy of cultivation either.

The Dao is the substance of the scripture, and the scripture is the function of the Dao. Only when one no longer clings to either substance or function does the Dao being cultivated shine forth. When this is achieved, one forgets even the very act of forgetting, and yet does not forget what ought to be forgotten. What follows restates this in verse:

Becoming an immortal and becoming a Buddha originally follow different paths, yet in the end both return to one and the same principle and accord with the mysterious Dao (the Way).

Once the crucial pivot within this is seen through, it becomes clear that the movement from “non-being” to “being,” and again from “being” back to “non-being,” all takes place within transformation.

After the scripture has been heard three times, ……