《上清道类事相》

A Daoist sanctuary is also called a Daoist retreat, a Mysterious Altar, a quiet studio, or a Jing—a quiet room where Daoists practice and perform ritual services.

The Scripture of Original Forms says: In the Longhan era, the Celestial Worthy refined the true writings in the Hall of Seven Treasures on Northern Long’s Mysterious Mound. Auspicious Qi from the heavens filled the four directions and served as ornamentation for the hall.

The Statutes of the Three Caverns say: When building a Jing hall or palace hall, choose an auspicious day according to the ritual regulations to establish the Jing room, and place the administrative seat in the direction of Heavenly Virtue. Here, “Heavenly Virtue” refers to the directions associated with Jia, Yi, Bing, Ding, and the other cyclical signs. A quiet room in a common household is called a Jing; a Daoist master’s place of practice is called a Zhi. Both are one zhang and eight chi long and one zhang and six chi wide. Anyone who carries the talismans and registers of immortal spirits must establish a Jing room or a Zhi.

The Scripture of the Dharma Wheel says: When you see a terrace or hall, let your mind become boundless and contemplate the eight directions all around. Bring yourself into accord with the spirits and discern what is deep and subtle. Here, “contemplate” means to contemplate the eight directions; the eight poles are the eight directions. If a person can settle the spirit and focus the mind, they can penetrate what is subtle and mysterious and discern the principles of what lies deep and far away. This state is called the supreme attainment of “Great Mystery, True Unity.” Thus, the Upper Scripture of the Five Thousand Words says: “Always without desire, contemplate its mystery; always with desire, contemplate its subtlety.” In the passage quoted here, the character “subtlety” was mistakenly written as “sign”; the two characters are similar in form, and the error arose through generations of copying.

The Scripture of Shangqing Transformations says: The Hall of the Western Terrace is where the two Perfected Ones wear and use their implements, and where talismanic writings are engraved.

The scriptures also call it the Hall of the Nine Mysteries.

They also say: The Taiji Observatory is where the highest Perfected Ones of the Upper Origin manifest through transformation.

They also say: The Purple Upper Observatory secretly stores the true writings of Great Numinous Power.

The Shangqing Scripture says: The Numinous Observatory of Dawn’s Accord is where the Dao Lord Jade Dawn resides.

The True Instructions say: The Hall of Easy Transference is where the Lady of Dawn’s Accord resides.

The Sanyuan Bu Jing says: The Celestial King of Primordial Beginning, a revered Daoist deity, was at the Mingxia Abbey, where he handed the Three Heavenly Jade Youths a jade document seal containing records of heavenly writings.

The Ling Shu Jing says: In the northern land of Yudan stands a Hall of Grotto Spirits, rising high into the clouds. It is dark and without light. Another Hall of Grotto Spirits, however, shines brightly and is open on all sides, like a scene bathed in sunlight. The Celestial Worthy stored the celestial writings in this hall, which is therefore called the “Hall of Grotto Spirits.”

The Ling Shu Jing also says: The Lord of the Dao, a revered Daoist deity, once bowed before the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning in the Cypress Mound Lodge of the Upper Hall of Southern Cinnabar Grotto Yang. He sought instruction, and the Celestial Worthy then taught him the Upper Grade Scripture on the Roots of Sin.

The Lingbao Hidden Sayings says: In the Northern Spirit Hall of Harmonized Radiance, above the clouds, people fly hand in hand.

The Lingbao Hidden Sayings also says: In the Heaven of Constant Fusion stands a Purple Tenuity Hall, above Jade Clarity, shining brilliantly amid the Purple Void.

It also says: Beyond the courtyard of the Three Realms, one ascends to the Hall of Great Numinous Power.

The Taishang Flying and Moving Scripture says: The Lord of the Dao roams freely in the Hall of Feathered Yin and rests at the Gate of Grotto Brilliance.

The Scripture on Repenting for Sins at the Eight Seasonal Nodes says: On the days of the eight seasonal nodes—Beginning of Spring, Spring Equinox, Beginning of Summer, Summer Solstice, Beginning of Autumn, Autumn Equinox, Beginning of Winter, and Winter Solstice—the Supreme Emperor of the Upper Sovereigns ascends to the realm of Vast Cold and Upper Clarity, the Celestial Gate of the Great Void at the Upper Clarity Numinous Abode, the Cinnabar and Purple Terrace, and the Long-Boundless Jade Tower. The immortals gather at the Observatory of Great Subtlety to decide together the sins and blessings of the people under Heaven.

The Biographies of Daoist Students says: Wu Meng, whose courtesy name was Shiyun, composed a poem while climbing a mountain: “I raise my head and see the halls of the assembled immortals; I lower my gaze and behold the dwelling of the Jade Spirit.”

It is also recorded that Xu Yufu’s great-grandson, Xu Lingzhen, lived during the Liang dynasty. The court ordered the construction of the Succeeding-the-Perfected Abbey in his honor, commemorating the virtue of his distant ancestor. The Zhuyang Abbey, where Tao Yinzhu (Tao Hongjing) lived, had once been the residence of Xu Changshi (Xu Mi).

It is also recorded that Kong Lingchan, courtesy name Yanling, was from Shanyin County in Kuaiji Commandery. He studied the essential teachings of Daoism in depth and read widely in the texts of the immortals. Emperor Ming of Song built the Huai Xian Abbey beside Yu Cave and issued an edict inviting him to live there.

It is also recorded that Emperor Gaozu of Chen once lectured at the Yixian Abbey. Xiao Ziyi of Lanling, courtesy name Qianhua, rose wearing coarse cloth and presented a woven scripture cap he had made himself as an offering. After Xiao Ziyi died, his ritual implements and scriptures were taken into government custody. The scripture cap at the An’guo Abbey is still preserved today.

Emperor Shizu of Liang built the Taiqing Abbey on Mount Tianmu and invited Daoist priests from across the land to rest and reside there.

The Taidong Scripture says that Mount Yuangui has a Nine-Spirit Jade Abbey, the dwelling of the Jade Consort of the Great Emperor.

The Scripture of Original Aspects says that in the land of Gaoyang there is a Lodge of Eternal Joy, measuring twelve feet across. Its interior and exterior are engraved with celestial scenes and Great-Mixed script, with inscriptions on all four sides to protect the dwelling.

The Scripture of the Emperor of Humanity Guarding the Three Ones says that the Emperor of Humanity built a house on Mount Emei from dark green jade, made its platform and supports of gold, and built its walls from materials of five colors.

The Secrets of Ascending to Perfection and Concealing the Real says that Mount Yankou is also called the Fangyuan Abbey. In ancient times, Xiaoming perfected a divine elixir there and then ascended to Xuanzhou.

It is also recorded that the ancients once refined the Nine-Cauldron Elixir there.

The Record of the Ten Continents says that Yingzhou has a Golden Phoenix Observatory, adorned with many kinds of precious jade and towering above the peaks in the clouds. Inside the observatory is a blue-green jade table.

The Record of the Ten Isles says: On Yingzhou stands the Golden Luan Abbey, adorned with every kind of fine jade and rising high into the clouds. Inside is a table of green jade, covered with white cloth patterned with clouds. On the table, a dragon carved from water-green jade hangs upside down, with a sun made of fire essence suspended from it. A crow is carved from black jade; the moon is made of water essence, and a toad and a jade rabbit are carved from precious jade. Mechanisms beneath the floor make the changing brightness of the sun and moon, and the waxing and waning of the moon, exact in every detail. Cool, fragrant breezes often blow through this place. Whoever spreads out their sleeves to receive one feels that the years stretch on, yet never grows weary of them.

The Scripture of Plain Silk on the Phoenix Terrace says: “Moonlight illuminates the Western Flower Pavilion; the heart’s intent accords with the Palace of Vast Cold. A purple phoenix flutters down, and the Nine-Ridged Peaks seem still and desolate. The gaze turns toward boundless fields; the head lifts to look up into the midst of the blades of the kalpa.”

The Scripture of the Purple Dawn of Master Shanghuang says: “Golden boys climb the clouds to attend the carriage; jade maidens tread the air to guard the spirits. They travel east to visit the Pavilion of Emerald Waters, a place deep and vast, filled with abundant numinous energy—the source of utmost purity.”

The Hidden Instructions for Ascending to the Real say that the Upper Huayang Pavilion and Lower Huayang Pavilion were built west of Great Maoshan.

They also say that at the foot of Fangshan stands the Pavilion of Secluded Vastness, where many cultivators of the Dao reside.

They further say that King Jing of Song built a pavilion called the Source of Utmost Purity.

The Hidden Instructions for Ascending to the Real also say that the Upper Huayang Pavilion and Lower Huayang Pavilion were built west of Great Maoshan; that the Pavilion of Secluded Vastness stands at the foot of Fangshan, where many cultivators of the Dao live; and that King Jing of Song built a pavilion whose master was Wang Wenqing.

The Orthodox Methods of the Three Heavens says that the hymns of the Three Heavens come from the Qingwei Pavilion.

The Hidden Writings of the Eight Arts and the Divine Tiger says that the Celestial Emperor of Taiwei once received the Golden Talisman of the Spirit Tiger of Demon-Dispelling Wisdom at the Pavilion of Supreme Truth.

The True Instructions of the Jade Essence and the Plain Words of the Three Nines says that the Plain Words of the Three Nines are concealed in the High Jade Pavilion.

The Scripture of the Mysterious Annals of the Jade Emperor’s Seven Sages says that the Vista of Radiant Clouds is where the Supreme Lord resides.

It also says that the Jade Pavilion of Purple Emptiness is where the Sovereign Man arranges to meet others.

The Scripture of the Three Ways Moving in Accord says that the True Scripture of the Eight Plainnesses is stored within the Purple Cloud Inner Abbey.

The Scripture of the Eight Radiances of Jade Light says that the Jade Emptiness Abbey is where the Most High Lord of the Dao withdraws into stillness.

The Perfect Instructions on Jade Essence (Yujing Zhenjue) says that the Lofty Jade Lodge stands in the Purple Void Heaven, and that the Perfect Instructions on Jade Essence in Three-Nine Pure Words is kept there in secret.

The Scripture of the Eight Radiances of Jade Light (Yuguang Bajing Jing) says that the Jade Void Abbey is where the Lord of the Dao, the Most High, withdrew into stillness.

The Perfect Instructions on Jade Essence also says that the Lofty Jade Lodge stands in the Purple Void Heaven, and that the Perfect Instructions on Jade Essence in Three-Nine Pure Words is kept there in secret.

The Lower Scripture of the Great Cavern of the Real (Dadong Zhenjing Xia) says that the Golden True Jade Scripture is stored in the Reflecting-Heaven Cavern Abbey.

The Lower Scripture of the Great Cavern (Dadong Jing Xia) says that the Lord of the Dao ascended the Empty Terrace above the blue waters and gazed toward the Purple Lodge of Cangzhou.

The Correct Teachings of the Three Heavens (Santian Zhengfa) records the Ninefold-Mystery Emperor Lord singing: “I built my hut in the Great Rosy Lodge, gazing out in ease; my life is without end.” The Lord of the Green Youth also sang: “At ease in the Upper Clarity Lodge, what obstruction could I possibly feel?”

The Wondrous Scripture of Great Being (Dayou Miaojing) says that dragons’ cries ring through the mansions, while phoenix songs echo through the Lodge of Great Empyrean.

The Commentary on the Jade Scripture of the Great Cavern (Dadong Yujing Zhu) says that the Emperor Lord rode the Red Empyrean to open the Great Dao. Great Darkness, clothed in green clouds, made subtle principles clear, and the Lodge of the Golden Pond thereby shone with radiance.

It also says that the Lodge of Golden Lang is in the Jade Clarity Heaven, where the Perfected One, the August Sovereign, resides and presides over its affairs.

It further says that Mount Kunlun has a Lodge of Nine Spirits. Above, it reaches the wheel of Zongji; below, it lies in the midst of the Great Chamber. This is where the Queen Mother of the West governs.

The Register of the Origin of Guishan (Guishan Yuanlu) says that the assembled immortals roam the peaks of the Five Ridges and fly together at Taihua Abbey.

The Upper Scripture of the Sevenfold Turning, Purple Dawn Lord (Qizhuan Zichen Jun Shangjing) says that the Master of the August Sovereign cultivates the spirit at the Gate of the Divine Continent and dwells in an immortal lodge of boundless stillness.

The Upper Clarity Scripture of the Eight Radiances and Flying (Shangqing Bajing Feijing) says that the Lord of the Dao, the Most High, stands freely atop the Great Tortoise and roams at ease through boundless realms, before each in turn returns to the Jade Void Lodge.

The Declarations of the Perfected (Zhen’gao) records the Tongbai Perfected One singing: “I left the Lodge of the Golden Court, unharnessed my carriage, and came to the place where the Three Blossoms grow. Night mushrooms covered the Hua Peak; I gathered and ate them, and no longer suffered hunger for long.”

The Zhengao says: “Gathering and comprehending the vision of the Three Marvels, one can ride upon the shifting radiance and ascend to the distant, hidden realms above.”

It also says: “The lush, verdant heights are not a true dwelling; the realm of Great Nonbeing is my abode.”

The Zhengao says: “Purple palaces stand upon the emptiness, and wondrous halls rise amid the lofty, sheer winds.”

It also says: “Clouds encircle the Hall of Purple Tenuity, one of the Heavenly Emperor’s abodes; above the Mound of Abundance, radiance and wind spread forth.”

It also says: “Receiving Jing and Qi in the wondrous Heavenly River, one transforms one’s appearance and enters the Hall of the Three Yin, an immortal realm inhabited by the Three Yin.”

The Shengxuan Jing says: “There is a Cloud-Floating Observatory, where the Celestial Worthy makes his rounds.”

The Dadong Zhenjing says: “In the radiant capital of Senlang stands the abode of the Supreme Emperor, the Central Yellow Great One; the Primordial Youth lives within it.”

The Longfei Chisu Yinjue says: “The Perfected Elder of Great Perfection, an immortal of the Daoist tradition, roams and delights in the Hall of Purple Emptiness, a celestial abode filled with purple Qi.”

It also says: “Clouds spread through the Hall of Great Emptiness, while numinous winds scatter strange fragrances.”

It also says: “Baichengzi, Guxizi, Guangchengzi, and Qingzhenzi are all there.”

The Longfei Chisu Yinjue also says: “The Perfected Elder of Great Perfection roams and delights in the Hall of Purple Emptiness.”

It also says: “Clouds spread through the Hall of Great Emptiness, while numinous winds scatter strange fragrances.”

It also says: “Baichengzi, Guxizi, Guangchengzi, and Qingzhenzi travel through the wondrous observatories of the Three Pure Essences and Eight Wheels, whose scenery is splendid and strange.”

The Baiyu Hejie Jing says: “The Perfected Elder of Great Perfection roams through the Hall of Purple Emptiness and halts his carriage at the boundless edge.”

It also says: “The Perfected Elder of Great Perfection travels north to the Hall of Dark Mystery in the Northern Yin, the land of cold waters.”

The Shangqing Bianhua Jing says: “The Lord of Life and Longevity of the Southern Pole travels through the Hall of Golden Caves and Pure Numinous Light, where he meets the Golden Mother of the Nine Numinous Ones, a Daoist immortal. The Lord of the Three Origins of Great Purity receives the Primordial Register of Mount Guishan, bestowed by that mountain. Later, he ascends to the abode of the Supreme Emperor, the Great One, and obtains the Lang Book of the Great Empyrean, a scripture of the celestial realm.”

It also says: “The sovereign sends purple stone to the Numinous Elixir. At the Hall of the Western Terrace, he carves and records the documents; in the eastern land of Donghua, he establishes the rites. Joining in the transformations of the Qi of the Three Pure Essences, he looks upward and receives the light of dawn.”

It also says: “Above, draw in the Qi of Purple Emptiness; below, gaze upon the misty, boundless source. Focus the mind and spirit on the halls above the Nine Mysteries, and let the eyes take in the faces of the Central Perfected Ones, the immortals who dwell in the central position.”

The Record of the Flying and Ascending says: “At the Western Terrace lodge, one performs the rites of flying ascent and feathered transformation. In the east, one carries out the setting rite, joining in transformation with the Qi of the Three Essences—the three subtle primordial energies described in Daoism—and gazes upward to receive the radiance that rises at dawn.”

It also says: “Above, draw in the Qi of the Purple Void; below, observe the distant, profound source of chaos. Focus the mind and spirit on the immortal lodges beyond the Nine Mysteries, while the gaze takes in the faces of the Central Perfected Ones, the perfected immortals who dwell in the central heavens.”

The Upper Scripture of Flying and Ascending says: “In ancient times, the Supreme Lord of the Dao, a revered Daoist deity, traveled through the northern heavens. He rode his carriage to Guanghan, set foot upon the flowered canopy, and pushed the Nine Origins forward. He wandered at ease through the cloud palaces and roamed in the dark and mysterious northern realm, stopping at the Gate of Donghao and the Lodge of Feathered Yin. He gazed upon and stirred the stars of the Northern Dipper to summon the course of Heaven; then he hastened the convergence of the kalpas and danced in his celestial wheel. He lamented the withering and decline of all things, yet looked down upon Heaven and Earth, enduring forever without perishing.”

The Scripture of the Seven Turns and Seven Transformations of the Divine Continent says: “The Lord of the Upper Sovereign of Purple Dawn, a revered Daoist deity, nourished his mind and spirit at the Gate of the Divine Continent. Dwelling in a vast and boundless lodge, he set in order the workings of the Three and Five—the order governing the movements of Heaven and Earth—and rescued and dispelled the calamities of the Cheng-Tang era.”

It also says: “In the Lodge of Bright Liang, white changes into green.”

It also says: “In the Observatory of the Open and Fallen Cinnabar Firmament, the profound and unfathomable workings of the Way of Heaven are revealed.”

It also says: “Peacefully feasting in the Lodge of the Nine Heavens, one slowly ascends to the Palace of Jade Clarity, a palace in the upper heavenly realms described in Daoism.”

It also says: “The exalted and supreme deity solemnly rides a dragon carriage, feasting and roaming in the Lodge of the Purple Firmament.”

The Upper Scripture of the Jade Pendant and Golden Bell says: “The Supreme Hidden-Mystery Treasure Chapter, a Daoist scripture or secret text, is kept in the Lodge of Jade Clarity.”

It also says: “The Scripture of the Inner Perfected Ones of the Yin Radiance of Shangqing is kept in the Lodge of Shangqing, amid the Great Empyrean.”

The Purple Book of the Great Empyrean says: “In the morning, one visits the Lodge of the Western Terrace; in the evening, one rests in the Palace of Fusang, an immortal palace said to lie in the east and associated with sunrise.”

It also says: “In the Lodge of the Open and Fallen Purple Void, auspicious clouds of celebration disperse as they transform.”

It also says: “In the Lodge of the Great Empyrean, one holds the tallies and registers, returning to the wondrous, authentic Dao and its writings.”

The Scripture of the Foreign Lands, Release Section says: “The Lord of the Green Youth, an immortal perfected being in Daoism, roams freely in the Lodge of the Purple Void.”

The Ritual for Submitting Petitions in Shangqing says: “Rest peacefully in the Lodge of the Grand Constant, and ascend to the lofty Court of the Royal Mother, the celestial garden where the Queen Mother of the West dwells.”

The Empty Grotto’s Numinous Scripture says: “Above the Vacant Bright Heaven stands a great hall of Brahmanical practice. The Celestial Venerable Yuanzheng descends and takes up residence there, while Siming, the deity who oversees human lifespans and registers of fate, holds the registers and makes his calculations.”

The Scripture of Ascending to the Mystery says: “The Most High is at his seat of governance in Kunlun. He ascends the Seven-Treasure Abbey of Dao and De, the great seat of governance at the head of Heaven, and there says to Celestial Master Zhang: ‘My Dao appeared long before the Beginningless, Primordial Beginning.’”

The scripture also says: “Although the body is among mountain forests where tigers and leopards roam, the heart rests in a realm of good fortune and De.”

The Scripture of the Grotto Mystery says: “The Purple Tenuity Numinous Hall is in Brahma-Degree Heaven, and its name is written on the hall in the inner script of Heaven.”

It also says: “The Fusang Hall of the Numinous Offices is in Primordial Grotto Heaven, and its name is written on the hall in the inner script of Heaven.”

It also says: “The Upper Hall of Northern Numinous Power is in Wengzhong Heaven, and its name is written on the hall in the inner script of Heaven.”

It also says: “The Northern Numinous Hall is in Seven Luminaries Heaven, and its name is written on the hall in the inner script of Heaven.”

It also says: “The Purple Yang Hall is in Wenju Heaven, and its name is written on the hall in the inner script of Heaven.”

It also says: “The Grotto Numinous Primordial Yang Hall is on Jade Capital Mountain in the Great Dark Metropolis. The Most True and Venerable Gods—the Primordial Beginning, the Numinous Treasure, the Great Sage of the Southern Heaven, and others—as well as the Southern Supreme Red Emperor of the Boundless Great Dao, the Elixir Numinous Laozi, the Jade Maiden of Great Harmony, Lord Sima of Long Life and Cherishing Life, Siming and Silu, the Lord of Transcendence at the Southern Pole, the Lord of Myriad Blessings, and others, regularly gather in this hall on the twenty-third day of each month to examine and verify the length of the allotments of fortune and lifespans assigned to the people of Heaven and all living beings.”

The Scripture of the Grotto Truth says: “The Golden Grotto Hall of Pure Numinous Power is where the Ninefold Numinous Golden Mother and the Three Primordial Lords of Great Purity reside.”

It also says: “The Upper Hall of Clear Subtlety is where the Heavenly King of Primordial Beginning resides.”

It also says: “The Hall of the Sun Gate of the Pistil Pearl is where the Most High, the Lofty Sage, Lord Jade Morning, resides.”

The Scripture of Dao Traces says: “The Heavenly King of Primordial Beginning issues the registers of the Imperial People’s officers from the Hall Above the Moon.”

The Scripture of the Five Refinements of Living Corpses says: Long ago, in the kingdom of Shanen, there was a Daoist named Huang Xinran. After attaining the Dao, he became the Venerable Lord of Original Spirit. The Southern Palace recorded his cultivation history in the Hall of Purple Tenuity.

The Lower Chapter of the Jade Characters of Inner Sound says: The Hall of Purple Tenuity lies above Jade Clarity. Many groups of Tuqiu dwell there, numbering in the tens of millions. “Tuqiu” refers to those who have only just been delivered and received spiritual offices. Their merit is not yet complete, so they are temporarily settled here. There is also the Hall of Great Numinous Power, governed by the King of Brahma’s Crossing.

The Thirty-Nine Chapters of the Great Cavern Jade Scripture says: Above the Nine Heavens stands the Hall of the Golden Rampart, where the Jade Emperor resides.

The scripture also says: On Mount Kunlun stands the Abbey of Numinous Zhi. It reaches upward to the wheel of the Jade Pivot and lies below in the midst of the great void. It is governed by the Queen Mother of the West.

The Chronicle of the Successive Generations of the Hallowed Dao Lord says: “The Abbey of the Vast, Fallen Cinnabar Clouds is broad and lofty; in its serene depths, the hidden workings are revealed.” This means that the Abbey of Cinnabar Clouds is vast and high, tranquil and profound, with the mysterious workings of the Dao manifesting within it.

The Nine Chapters of the Eightfold Yang Splendor says: The Abbey of Taiwei, where Cao was released, rises steeply and perilously; it is the dwelling place of the Nine Mysteries. Within the abbey is a worthy one who keeps to stillness and cultivates through cavernous whistling in a deep, quiet place.

The scripture also says: The Northern Culmen forms the Vermilion Hall, which seems to rise high above the Ridge of the Nine Void Heavens.

The scripture also says: The Abbey of Clear Emptiness of Yuyi was built where Jie Lin stays far from the dust and smoke of the world.

The scripture also says: In the unnamed Hall of Wandering through Caverns, a dragon caravan travels back and forth, driving a carriage with wheels of jade.

The Scripture of the Three Sovereigns says: The Abbey of the Sovereign Pole rises majestically, and the rooms of the Jasper Grove shine brilliantly.

The scripture also says: People accompany one another to the Hall of Guishan, where they sing and cry out among the Fusang trees.

Yin Xi’s Record of the Origins of the Tower Abbey says: Long ago, King Kang of Zhou heard that Master Yin aspired to the great path of the immortals. He appointed him as a minister and called his residence the “Tower Abbey.” Later, King Mu of Zhou had the abbey built and summoned reclusive men of high virtue to become Daoists there. From that time onward, the abbey’s lineage has continued to the present day.

The Sacred Annals of Lord Lao records that King Mu of Zhou also built a Daoist temple for Du Chong, a resident of Haojing. Du Chong, whose courtesy name was Xuanyi, was assigned to serve as a Daoist priest there. He later became a Perfected of the Supreme Ultimate, an immortal honored in Daoism. Daoist priests lived in the temple generation after generation, a practice that continued from then on and has endured to this day.

From this, we can see that the building of Daoist temples by private individuals began during the reign of King Kang of Zhou, while the practice of settling Daoist priests in temples began during the reign of King Mu of Zhou. As for the title “Daoist priest,” it is said to have appeared as early as the first separation of Heaven and Earth. The name “immortal temple” is said to be older still: before the Four Heavens had formed, it was already found in the Great Luo Heaven, the highest celestial realm in Daoist belief. In the Great Luo Heaven stood Jade Capital Mountain and the Immortal Temple of the Mysterious Metropolis.

The Biographies of Daoist Learning records that Emperor Wen of Song built the Chongxu Lodge, a place for Daoist cultivation, for Master Lu. He appointed Liu Faxian as its head and bestowed on him the title of National Preceptor. Dong Lüfa was from Pengcheng. Emperor Ming of Song summoned him to serve as head of the Chongxu Lodge.

The Biographies of Daoist Learning also records that in the fifteenth year of the Tianjian era under the Liang, the court built the Supreme Clarity Mysterious Altar, a Daoist ritual altar, for Tao Hongjing, to organize and promote the Mingfa teaching.

The Biographies of Daoist Learning further records that Zhang Yunzhi was from Jiaxing in Wu Commandery. He left home in his youth and studied for five years under teachers and fellow practitioners. Later, by imperial decree, he became head of the Chongyuan Lodge in the Southern Grotto of Mount Mao. Afterward, he chose another site in front of the lodge and built the Jinling Lodge there, setting it apart in quiet from the worldly bustle so that he could devote himself to cultivating the Great Dao.

Xue Biaozhi was from Jinling. During the reign of Emperor Gao of Qi, he went to Mount Mao and built a hut to live in. Year after year, he ate pine nuts and drank water from mountain streams. After Emperor Gao founded a new dynasty, he sought out recluses who cultivated the Dao. On learning that Xue Biaozhi held fast to his convictions, lived in seclusion in the mountains, and had no desire for wealth or official rank, the emperor ordered him to serve as head of the Jinling Lodge on the mountain.

Cheng Tong Sun, courtesy name Anren, was from Guoshan County in Yixing. He was quiet in temperament and sharp of mind, acting independently and never making do carelessly. He became a Daoist priest in his youth and observed a strict vegetarian fast for many years. People near and far respected him, and their faith in him grew stronger. In the sixteenth year of Tianjian under Emperor Wu of Liang (517), the court appointed him chief priest of the Jingxin Lodge, responsible for its affairs. He brought order to the lodge’s ritual practices and earned a strong reputation for virtue.

Meng Zhizhou was from Jianye in Danyang. During the Liu Song, he taught the Dao at Chongxu Lodge and composed the Liturgical Text for Repentance in the Ten Directions.

Xue Biaozhi was from Jinling. In the second year of Jianwu under Emperor Ming of Qi (495), he stayed in Dongchuan to seek Daoist secrets and returned only three years later. He petitioned to establish the Dongtian Lodge on the eastern ridge of Mount Maoshan.

Xue Biaozhi was from Jinling. In the second year of Jianwu under Emperor Ming of Qi (495), he stayed in Dongchuan to seek Daoist secrets and returned only three years later. He petitioned to establish the Dongtian Lodge on the eastern ridge of Mount Maoshan.

Jiang Fuchu was from Yixing. He often traveled to Mount Maoshan and was determined to live there in seclusion and practice the Dao. Emperor Gao of Qi ordered a lodge to be built on the mountain. In the second year of Jianyuan (480), he issued an edict inviting Jiang to lead Daoist rites at Zongyang Lodge. Later, Jiang built Peizhen Lodge at the former residence of Xu Changshi. He diligently managed its affairs, then handed them over to his second son, Hong Su, and devoted himself to practicing the higher methods of cultivation.

Dongxiang Zongchao, courtesy name Yilun, was from Qianou in Gaomi. He donated his former residence and converted it into Xixuan Temple. He also put up a humble dwelling with vines and thatch, roofing it with reeds and using hibiscus wood for its frame. He worked alongside his disciples to build it. Though the buildings had no carved ornament, they were completed before long.

During the reign of Emperor Jianwen of Liang, Prince Wei of Luling was stationed in the area and undertook extensive construction. The covered walkways and halls were built in grand, ornate style, and the implements for offerings and ritual practice were especially fine. The thatched hut where the master lived was completed before long.

During the reign of Emperor Jianwen of Liang, Prince Wei of Luling was stationed in the area and undertook extensive construction. The covered walkways and halls were built in grand, ornate style, and the implements for offerings and ritual practice were especially fine. The master’s own thatched hut, however, remained plain. He did not replace his clothes and kept his dwelling in the woods austere. He often sat on an old round wooden stool, whose seat bore the dents of his knees. He did not replace his woven grass cap or rush mat even when they wore through.

Another account states that the Daoist Zhang Fameng built the Shizhu Lodge south of the rocky shoal in Yuan Pond and invited Jia Ling to lecture there for three years. Emperor Wu of Liang once ordered Yan to stay at the Shizhu Lodge. The food served in its kitchen and the offerings for its Daoist rituals were entirely vegetarian. See “Biography of Jia Ling.”

In the early Song, Prince Jing of Changsha built a Daoist retreat east of the residence of the senior official Xu. In the thirteenth year of the Tianjian era under Liang, the court ordered the retreat purchased and rebuilt as the Zhuyang Lodge. Emperor Ming of Song once summoned Master Lu to stay temporarily at the Hukezi Retreat at Luoqi Ferry and visited him several times. This shows that the name “retreat” was used by Buddhists, Daoists, Confucians, and others.

Yin Faren, courtesy name Zidao, was from Yangxia in Chen Commandery. He left home to become a monk when young, studied and recited the scriptures diligently, and observed a vegetarian diet for many years. The wealthy Chen Wenhe of the capital built the Yixian Lodge and invited Faren to live there.

The Jiuzhen Lodge was the residence of Wang Lingyu, courtesy name Shanbao, from Qu’a in Jinling. There he devoted himself to cultivating the higher Dao. The court assigned two hundred lodge residents to the establishment, and supplied its households generously with gold, silk, incense, medicines, and other necessities.

Xie Xuan, courtesy name Yuanying, was from Yangxia in Chen Commandery. He observed a vegetarian diet for many years and devoted himself to cultivating the Dao. On Mount Shangyu, he cleared away the brambles and opened a path to build a mountain lodge. The work seemed to have been aided by the spirits.

Zha Ding, courtesy name Shu’an, was from Nansha in Xinyi. He admired the Dao of the immortals and, while young, went to Mount Haiyu to study under Xie Xuan. Seeing his resolve, Xie Xuan had him stay at the Yuanyang Lodge to care for and study the “Scripture of Master Zhu.” Later, another retreat was built to the right of the Yuanyang Lodge, in a place rarely visited by people.

Lu Xiujing, courtesy name Yuande, was from Dongqian in Wuxing. He built a Daoist temple below Waterfall Cliff, southeast of Mount Lu, and named it the Jianji Temple. The site was secluded, and the buildings were finely crafted.

Lu Xiujing, whose courtesy name was Yuande, came from Dongqian in Wuxing. He built a Daoist temple beneath Waterfall Cliff, southeast of Mount Lu, and named it the Jianji Temple. The place was secluded and deep in the mountains, and its buildings were magnificent and imposing. Visitors who saw them were filled with reverence and imagined themselves in a celestial realm on Mount Kunlun. Later, people came to call Lu Xiujing “the Master of Tranquil Seclusion.”

Wang Sengzhen came from Jinshou in Liangzhou. He built the Futang Lodge in Anlu, Panzhou, and later the Shenwang Lodge in Yingzhou. Both were built with great beauty and care. He also established the Jiuzhen Lodge on Mount Heng.

In Jingzhou there was a lodge called Shixing, where Geng Chengxian, a native of Yingzhou, once lectured on Daoist scriptures.

Chu Boyu, whose courtesy name was Yuanqu, came from Qiantang in Wu Commandery. He lived in seclusion on Waterfall Mountain in the Southern Marchmounts, mastered Daoist arts, and studied hidden texts in depth. He practiced methods of cultivation such as gathering herbs and refining elixirs, as well as taking substances to nourish and strengthen the body. Emperor Gaozu of Qi issued an edict ordering officials from Wu and Kuaiji commanderies to prepare gifts and invite him out of seclusion, but Chu declined, citing illness. He died not long afterward. In his memory, Emperor Gaozu ordered the construction of the Taiping Lodge at the foot of Waterfall Mountain. Chu had loved studying the Scripture of Great Peace and practiced the Daoist methods it contained, so the lodge was named “Great Peace.”

Sun Yue, whose courtesy name was Xuanda, came from Yongkang in Dongyang. In the third year of the Yongming era, the emperor ordered him to serve as head of the Xingshi Lodge. Sun then devoted himself to cultivating the Great Dao and eagerly guided and welcomed those seeking to study. Hundreds of people often came to him as their teacher.

Another account says that during the Yongming era, the prefect Wang Liang and the county magistrate Gu Wei petitioned the court to build a lodge in the suburbs for Li Jingyou of Jinling, whose courtesy name was Huiguan. On the night before construction was due to begin, Li dreamed that King Yancheng sent twenty pillars to help build the Daoist sanctuary. Soon afterward, he went to a flooded place in the city and indeed saw nanmu pillars floating across the water. Once he had taken twenty, the rest sank beneath the surface. Local tradition held that King Yancheng had lived during the Warring States period.

Xu Mingye came from Chigang in Fufeng. He entered religious life in his youth and observed a vegetarian regimen for many years, eating only vegetables. During the Taiqing era of the Liang dynasty, Prince Nanping invited him to reside at the Shenwang Lodge north of the city. Later, when war broke out, he went to Qingxi Mountain in Wuchang and built a lodge there, earning the respect of people far and near.

Yang Chao, whose courtesy name was Chaoyuan, was from Donghai. During the Southern Liang, he went to Baoshan in the Wu region, founded the Linwu Abbey, and served as its head. He had more than a thousand disciples. Later, he also headed the Huayang Abbey and built the Zhaozhen Abbey east of Huayang.

Feng Faxian, whose courtesy name was Fayuan, was from Qu’a in Jinling. During the Southern Chen, the Chongyuan Abbey was built on Maoshan, with buildings of great scale and splendor. In the early years of Emperor Wu of Chen’s reign, a monk in Jinling died and, seven days later, said he had seen in Heaven a great hall under construction, built for Master Feng of Maoshan. After coming back to life, the monk wanted to visit Feng Faxian on Maoshan and verify what he had seen. At the foot of the mountain, he met someone coming down from the mountain and asked about Feng. He learned that Feng Faxian was indeed still alive.

Zhang Yu was a twelfth-generation descendant of the Celestial Master (Tianshi), the Daoist-revered Zhang Celestial Master. He became a Daoist at a young age. During the Tianjian era of the Southern Liang, he built the Zhaozhen Abbey on Yushan and lived there. He was said to be able to summon the immortals and the Dao.

Shi Xixian, whose courtesy name was Jidao, was from the Wu region. He left his wife, observed a strict fast for a long time, and built a Daoist abbey. Emperor Wu of Liang commended him and bestowed on the abbey the name Datongxuan Abbey.

Xu Shizi, whose courtesy name was Dewei, was from Dongmei. He became a Daoist, cultivated the Dao, and ate a vegetarian diet. Emperor Wu of Chen built the grand Zongxu Abbey in the area and appointed Xu Shizi as its head.

Wang Yuanqi was from Taiyuan. He was skilled in rites of prostration and repentance and presided over the Jizhen Abbey. At the abbey, he performed three circuits of the Dao, a ritual procession made with ritual bows.

Chunyu Puqia, whose courtesy name was Fadong, was from Wu Commandery and became a Daoist at a young age. In the north of the city was a rocky place called “Sheng.” He gave his residence to be used as a Daoist abbey, named it Chongxin Abbey, and served as its head.

Zhang Yuanfei, whose courtesy name was Jingming, lived in Caipo Village, Qu’a County. Later, she went to the north of Dongfu City and built Zhide Hall. She lived during the reign of Emperor Wu of Liang. She later sought permission to live in seclusion on Mount Mao, where she built Xuanming Hall in the Southern Grotto. She abstained from grains, tended to her body and mind, and devoted herself to the art of tu na (breath regulation). In the third year of Yongding, she went to Mount Haiyu and died at Nanshaqiuguan. She was then buried on Mount Mao.

Another woman, named Li Lingcheng, was from Luling. She left home in her youth, withdrew from worldly life, and went to Mount Lu. In Yanjing Ward, Qianfu Township, she built a quiet retreat for practice called Huaguan.

During the reign of Emperor Yuan of Liang, people called a “lü” an “Anjing,” and established a seat of administration at Tiande. “Tiande” refers to the directions associated with the characters jia, yi, bing, and ding. An altar in a commoner’s home was called a “jing,” while an altar belonging to a master’s household was called a “zhi.” A zhi was one zhang and eight chi long and one zhang and six chi wide. Anyone who wore Fulu (talismans and registers) of the immortals and spirits and held office at a zhi had to set up the ritual seat according to the methods for establishing an Anzhi.

Pavilions and Towers

The following section discusses the richly adorned halls and buildings of the immortals’ sanctuaries.

The Dongshen Jing says: “On Mount Penglai stands a golden pavilion, rising six hundred and forty li high.”

The Neiyin says: “From the Tower of Tu, one can gaze out in all eight directions upon the places of the Three Realms—the Realm of Desire, the Realm of Form, and the Formless Realm.”

The Dadong Yujue says: “Golden gates are arrayed within the Taixu Crimson Tower.”

The Dadong Yujing says: “Taiyuan lies beyond the Empty Grotto, and Taisu lies above the Hidden Mystery. In the heaven of Taisu, the Nine Emptinesses array golden gates; the Crimson Towers rise tier upon tier, reaching far toward the places of the Three Realms.”

The Dadong Yujue says: “Golden gates are arrayed within the Taixu Crimson Tower.”

The Dadong Yujing says: “Taiyuan lies beyond the Empty Grotto, and Taisu lies above the Hidden Mystery. In the heaven of Taisu, the Nine Emptinesses array golden gates; in the court of Taiyuan, the Crimson Towers rise in ten tiers.”

The Taiyi Dongzhen Xuanjing says: Within the Hall of Dao Treasures in the Flying Tower Heaven stands a golden chamber. Taizhen dwells inside, honored by the title Heavenly Emperor.

The Jade Scripture says: All who have received the Jade Register of the Immortal Perfected—a register of names and credential bestowed by Daoist teaching on those who seek immortality—will ascend to this Golden Flower Tower.

The Great Cavern Perfected Scripture says: Tier upon tier of lofty towers stretch for ten thousand li, while the Three Qi become clouds and rosy mists. The jade palace is still and empty, and the Cinnabar Gate lies deep within. In the hall are golden plaques and jade cabinets, which hold five registers of talismans—documents recording the names of immortals or the talismanic registers.

The scripture also says: In the Purple Palace, imperial charts and registers are kept; on the Golden Pavilion, the names of immortals are engraved.

The Cavern of Perfection Scripture says: There is a Golden Pavilion of Taiyi.

The Scripture on the Seven Stars’ Changing Course says: The Northern Emperor oversees the registration of the dead, and the Southern Gate oversees the registration of the living. If one can have one’s name entered in the register of the Eastern Florescent Golden Gate, one will gain wishes without end and stand alongside the Immortal Perfected.

The Scripture of Purple Radiance and Blazing Light says: Once a person’s allotted fate, inscribed in the bones, has been set, it is recorded in the register of the Mysterious Pavilion. This is why one’s name is entered in the register of immortals from birth.

The Record of the Golden Perfection of Taiyi quotes the Scripture of the Plain Spirit and Mysterious Cavern: The Supreme Sovereign, the Great Emperor, stands beneath the jade steps of the Venerable One. He ascends to the realm of Pure Spirit and dwells in the Gate of Great Void, the Cinnabar City and Purple Terrace, the unending Jade Towers, and the Observatory of Great Tenuity. There he opens the gates of the Nine Heavens and summons the Perfected of the Nine Heavens, the Three Supreme Elders, the Perfected of the Northern Pole, and the Great Gods of the Eight Seas. He also commands the numinous lords among those who attained the Dao and became immortals on the Five Sacred Peaks and famous mountains to attend. They gather in the Hall of Vast Yang to discuss the sins and blessings of all the people under Heaven, record good and ill fortune, and note whether those who study the Dao practice diligently or slacken in their efforts.

The Preface to the Upper Scroll of the Scripture of Flying and Soaring says: Above the Star of Bright Yang stands a green city with a jade tower, inhabited by the Perfected One Who Rides the Dipper, known as the Lord of the Nine Mornings. Above the Star of Yin Essence stands a five-colored jade tower, inhabited by the Perfected One Who Climbs the Ladle, known as the Lord of the Northern Upper Morning. Above the Star of the Perfected Ones stands a yellow-platform jade tower, where the Perfected One of the Jade Tower resides, known as the Lord of the Immortal Flower Morning. Above the Star of Dark Mystery stands a vermilion-platform jade tower, inhabited by the Perfected One Who Treads the Dipper, known as the Lord of the Dark Upper Flying Canopy Morning. Above the Star of Cinnabar Origin stands a plain-platform golden tower, inhabited by the Perfected One Who Steps on the Registers, known as the Vajra Lord of the Seven Mornings. Above the North Pole Star stands a dark-platform jade tower, inhabited by the Perfected One Who Treads the Guiding Lines, known as the Lord of the Northern Pole Flying Flower. Above the Star of the Celestial Pass stands a nine-tiered jade tower, inhabited by the Perfected One Who Rides the Dragon, known as the Lord of All Spirits, Nine Origins, and the Northern Canopy Morning. Above the Assistant Star stands a purple-aura jade tower, inhabited by the Perfected One Who Roams the Three Destinies, known as the Lord of the Emperor, the Nine Mornings.

The Scripture of the Cavern Spirit says: Those who observe the transformations of Heaven and Earth have passed through many kalpas and ages, and once rested inside a tower. After a thousand years, they lie down and rise again, and in the end never cease.

The Talisman of the Five Victories says: The talisman of Eastern Victory is secretly stored in the tower of the Dark Jade Green Forest and the chamber of the Orchid Jade of Chongqiu.

The Perfect Consort of the Nine Flores says: “Rise far up to the Tower of the Celestial Mansions, fly beyond the stars, and cast forth your radiance.”

The Scripture of Original Practice says: One hundred people from the kingdom of Zhouna, including its king, climbed a tower.

The Scripture of the Cavern Mystery says: The Long Tower of Purple Tenuity stands above the forbidden ground of Heaven; the inner sounds of Heaven’s depths are written upon it.

The Scripture of the Cavern Truth says: The jade registers of the Immortal Perfected—lists of immortals’ names and their talismans and registers—are stored in the Golden Flower Tower.

The Scripture of the Cavern Mystery says: The Long Tower of Mysterious Capital stands within the Heaven of Imperial Extension; the inner sounds of Heaven’s depths are written upon it.

The Lower Section of the Inner Sounds, in the Character Wang, also says: The nine-tiered tower is formed from gathered clouds and stands in the abode of the Great Yellow Elder.

The Scripture of the Cavern Truth says: The jade registers of the Immortal Perfected are stored in the Golden Flower Tower.

The Scripture of the Cavern Mystery says: The Long Tower of Mysterious Capital stands within the Heaven of Imperial Extension; the inner sounds of Heaven’s depths are written upon it.

According to The Lower Section of the Inner Sounds of the Character Wang, a nine-story tower was formed from gathered clouds, then raised layer by layer by Tai Huangweng, an immortal in Daoism. The tower also contains the Inner Sounds, secret chants transmitted within the tradition.

The Scripture of the Three Thousand Chapters of the Great Cavern says that in the Great Clarity Heaven stands a Golden Flower Tower. All who have received an immortal’s jade register—talismans and registers bestowed by an immortal—live there.

The True Scripture of the Eightfold Purity says that an immortal’s hidden name is written in a green-blue book and was engraved long ago within the Jade Pavilion, an immortal hall adorned with jade.

The scripture also says that within the Nine Palaces there are only the Great Mystery Jade Book and the Golden Pavilion.

It further says that the Great Mystery Talisman resides within the Nine Palaces.

The Upper Scripture of Golden Books and Jade Characters says that a person’s innate allotment of life was recorded long ago in the register of the Mystery Pavilion. Since that person’s name at birth had already been entered in the immortal registers, there came to be the Yang Song of the Eightfold Purity.

The Nine Chapters says that nine towers were built atop the Mystery Terrace, their vermilion-red railings reflecting the emerald essence.

The Biographies of Daoist Learning records that Tao Hongjing, whose courtesy name was Tongming and who came from Weijun, withdrew to Zhongling during Emperor Ming’s reign. He built another pavilion and concealed his whereabouts so that he could cultivate the Dao.

The Biographies of Daoist Learning also records that Liu Yue, Chief Administrator of Cizhou, submitted a memorial requesting that the Luohan Platform beneath Qixia Tower, west of the city, be set aside as a site for a state-built residence. Wang Sengzhen of Jinshou in Liangzhou was appointed its director. Emperor Ming of the Song dynasty opened up mountain lands to honor the True Immortals and built residences to welcome recluses. They cut through mountain peaks and put up buildings, leveled the foundations by hewing stone, erected pavilions of cassia wood on cloud-wreathed peaks, and raised towers of pepper wood in mist-covered valleys. The doors and windows seemed to await the arrival of phoenixes, while the moonlit entrances evoked the immortals. They traveled far to the coast in search of people who sought the Dao, choosing those of unassuming virtue to live there.

The Biographies of Daoist Learning further records that Wang Daolian was a woman from Pengcheng who resolved to leave home and enter religious life. She went to Long Mountain, sold her clothes and possessions, and built a residence herself, naming it “Mystic Radiance Immortal.”

Another account says that after Wang Daolian went to Long Mountain, she sold her clothes and possessions and built a residence herself, naming it the “Mystic Radiance Double Pavilion.” The connected towers and rows of buildings were completed in little time. The project was both grand in scale and swiftly finished, as though aided by spirits.

The Inner Biography of the Lady of Mount Heng says that Taiji had already registered the Lady of Mount Heng’s name and entered her immortal status in the cinnabar register in the Pavilion of Eastern Florescence. She must have been the Primordial Lady of Purple Tenuity, a female immortal revered in Daoism.

The Biography of Zhao Wenhe mentions both the Seven Treasures Tower and the dwellings of the Four Guardians.

On Immortal Dwellings

The Scripture of Original Forms says that an immortal dwelling is a room where Daoists practice breath cultivation. “Breath cultivation” refers to training the breath through methods such as regulating the breath and inhaling and exhaling.

The Scripture of the Nine Florescences says that within the Vermilion Chamber of Langxuan, people of lofty De shine like crimson clouds.

The Upper Section of the Great Scripture of Perfect Primordials says that there are the Yin Immortal Chamber, the Chamber of Azure Ascent, and the Chamber of Ten Thousand Blessings. These are all places where the Celestial Masters teach and transform others.

The Lower Section of the Great Scripture of Perfect Primordials says that the Chamber of Seven Treasures and Blossoms is where the High and Exalted Perfect Primordial dwells. The Scripture of the Jade Dawn Mirror says that in the Golden Blossom Grotto Chamber, the Three Plain Primordial Ladies, female immortals in Daoism, sit in meditation.

The Great Cavern Perfect Scripture speaks of a nameless chamber. The Yang Song of the Eightfold Purities of the Perfected mentions the Chamber of Dark Mound, where those preparing to become immortals receive instruction. The Scriptures of Highest Clarity say that the Chamber of Pistil Pearls is where the Dao Lord of Jade Dawn resides, and that the Chamber of Gathered Clouds is where the Great Emperor of Fusang resides.

The Scripture of Daoist Traces says that these dwellings are in the Highest Clarity immortal realm on Mount Bachun.

The Scripture of the Three Primordials’ Distribution says that the Heavenly King of the Primordial Beginning, in the Cloud Chamber of Great Empyrean, gave the Jade Registers of the Supreme Perfected to the Jade Youths of the Three Heavens. “Jade register” refers to a jade credential used for Daoist texts or as an object of transmission.

The scriptures also mention the Cinnabar Chamber of Nine Turns, which is governed by the Lord of the Upper Primordial.

The Contents of the Cavern of the Great Grotto’s Feminine Unity says that one should read the Emperor’s secret scriptures in the Cavern Chamber of the Three Plain Essences.

The Scripture of Daoist Traces says that, seen from afar, the Chamber of the Seven Luminaries appears both bright and secluded.

The Jidao Jing says: “Gather your spirit and gaze upon the Chamber of the Seven Luminaries,” a celestial realm corresponding to the Sun, Moon, and five planets. There, all is at once brightly illuminated and shrouded in unfathomable darkness.

The Lingbao Hidden Words says: “The immortal of Jingxiao parts the doors of the Chamber of the Nine Mysteries,” a remote and profound celestial gateway, “rides three-colored auspicious clouds, and comes to the Gate of the Dharma Wheel of Rebirth,” a portal symbolizing reincarnation and renewal.

The Lingbao Hidden Words also says: “Open the Gate of the Long Night, illuminate the Chamber of the Nine Depths,” the furthest reaches of the underworld, “pass beyond the limits imposed by the bodily form, and enter the silent courtyard.”

The Hidden Instructions for Ascending to Zhen says: “In the Jade Clarity realm there is a Chamber of Jade Trees, a celestial residence. Jade tablets bearing purple script, heavenly documents inscribed in purple on jade, are stored within.”

The Jade Chapters of the Red Writings of the Five Elders of the Primordial Beginning says: “The Celestial Worthy leads the assembled Perfected Ones into the Chamber of Ninefold Radiance,” a celestial residence that emits nine layers of light.

The Jade Instructions of the Great Cavern says: “The Chamber of the Three Blossoms lies within the Jade Clarity realm; it is where the Primordial Lord of Yang’an resides.”

The text also says: “The Primordial Lords of the Three Origins enter the Chamber of Flowing Transcendence,” a kind of celestial residence for immortals and Perfected Ones.

The Inner Tradition of Lord Mao says: “On White Jade Stove Mountain there is a Chamber of Vermilion and Purple, where the Queen Mother of the West resides. The King of the Supreme One’s Yellow Writ, Square White, and Red Qi enters the Jade Chamber of the Five Paths.”

The Jade Instructions of the Great Cavern says: “Kunlun Mountain is also called the Chamber of Jadeite on the Stone Mound,” a celestial residence built of precious jade.

Wang Zinian’s Records of Lost and Forgotten Things says: “South of Kunlun Mountain is the Chamber of Cinnabar Clouds, which from afar looks like rosy-red clouds.”

The Cavern Mystery Scripture says: “The Chamber for Communing with the Zhen is in the Heaven of Imperial Cliffs. The Book of Inner Sounds,” a text of inner celestial sounds and writings, “is stored within.”

The text also says: “The Jade Chamber stores the Precious Scripture of the Five Elders, the Twelve Vows, the Eight Gates of the Mysterious Mother, and the Scripture of Thirty-Nine Chapters. The Chamber of Pure Spirits stores the Plain Words of Three and Nine and the Way of the Three Zhen, Cavern of the Origin, for Stilling Transformation through the Mysterious Elixir. The Golden Chamber is where the Heavenly Emperor of Taiwei secretly keeps the methods of the Nine Elixirs of the Highest Immortals; the Five Elders of the Primordial Beginning also secretly store five texts of true writing there. The Golden Flower Purple Chamber holds the Five Elders’ secret writings. The Chamber of Vermilion Radiance is governed by the King of Transformative Response Heaven. The Chamber of Nine Turns is governed by the King of Polidada Heaven.”

The Dongzhen Jing says: The Jade Chamber is where the Lofty Jade Emperor stores the Golden Mysterious Feathered Chapters and the Hidden Sounds of the Myriad Spirits. The Three Blossoms Chamber stands within the Jade City and is where Primordial Lady Yang’an resides.

The Zhongshu Lü says: Precious scriptures of the Supreme Dao are stored in the Sevenfold Radiance Purple Chamber.

The Neiyin, Part Three says: In heaven there is a Sevenfold Radiance Chamber where the Lord of the Dao resides, in the central palace of the Great Mystery Capital.

The Nüqing Lüwen says: The precious talismans of the Highest Perfected are stored in the Sevenfold Radiance Vermilion Chamber, a lofty place whose doorways are purple like a forest of jade trees.

The Dengzhen says: This chamber is in the realm of Highest Clarity.

The Biography of the Lady of Mount Heng says: When people in the world recite the Great Cavern Scripture of Truth, the Three Offices and the Northern Emperor disrupt their voices, so the sound cannot reach the numinous chamber of the Purple Pole. “Numinous chamber” here means a noble and sacred palace in the celestial realm.

The book also says that the Blue Youth of Fangzhu sang: “From afar I gaze at the Seven Luminaries Chamber; it is at once bright and deep.” The Seven Luminaries Chamber is a celestial palace associated with the Seven Luminaries: the sun, the moon, and the five planets.

Perfected One Qingxu sang: “Loosen your robe and enter the Chamber within the Rampart; the spirit bell rings out with a clear, bright sound.”

The first chapter of the Dengzhen Yinjue says: Scriptures ranked among the Perfected Ones of Highest Clarity are stored in the Jade-Character Cavern Chamber.

The Three Origins Scripture of the One Truth says: Daoist secrets are hidden in the Mysterious Elixir Cavern Chamber.

The Three Origins Scripture of the Jade Register says: “Purple mists bear up the cloud carriage, drifting on the wind among the Mysterious Chambers.” This describes riding on clouds and wandering among celestial palaces.

The book also says: In the Northern Chamber of the Numinous Capital are stored celestial books and jade characters, each about one zhang square.

The Jade Radiance Scripture of the Eight Scenes says: The Jade Radiance Scripture of the Eight Scenes is sealed away in the Jade-Treasure, Jade Chamber.

The Jingen Jing says that the Shangqing Neiguan Shangfa is kept in the immortal palace of the Nine Elders of the Immortal Metropolis.

The Dayou Jing, Part One says that the Sanjiu Suyu is secretly stored in the Chamber of Su Ling.

It also says that the Dadong Zhenjing is kept in the Golden Flower Grotto Chamber.

The Taiyi Dijun Zhenxuan Jing says that the Taidan Yishu is kept within the Purple Chamber of the Supreme One’s Six Directions, under the charge of the Primordial Lord of the South Pole.

The Sanyuan Bujing also says that the Chamber of Female Unity contains the Three Primordial Ladies of Su.

It further says that Golden Flower Female Unity is the place where the Grotto Chamber is located.

The Yuqing Yinshu says that the Golden Flower Chamber is where the Heavenly Emperor Lord of Taiwei resides in leisure. It also says that the Forbidden Lord of the Upper Origin crossed beyond the Heaven of Jade Void and opened the Chamber of the Five Perfected Ones. The Grotto Chamber of the Jade Emperor Lord of the August Sovereign is also located here.

The Yuqing Yinshu further says that the Jade Emperor Lord of the August Sovereign rests in the Chamber of Sleeping, Feasting, and Nurturing the Edge, then flies to the Jade Capital of Excellence.

It also says that the Jade Emperor Lord of the August Sovereign gazes about from the Chamber of Jade Splendor. He also orders the Emperor Lord of Taiwei to sit in the chamber pavilion and welcome the arrival of the myriad spirits, while scattering fragrant flowers in the Jade Hall and arranging music of a grandeur like the Heavenly Tune.

The Chamber of Jade Rosy Clouds contains the Shanghuang Yuhui Yuqing Yinshu and the Jinxuan Yinxuan Yujing.

The Yujing Zhu says that the Yellow Chamber of Primordial Emptiness is where the Immortal Lord of Dawn conducts affairs.

The Dengzhen Yinjue, quoting the Biography of Lord Su, says that the Purple Chamber of the Northern Pole is the immortal palace where the Supreme Lord’s revered spirit resides. It also contains the Jade Empyrean Chamber of Luminous Jade, located in the realm of Jade Clarity.

The Yujing Zhu also says that the Yellow Chamber of Primordial Emptiness is where the Immortal Lord of Dawn conducts affairs.

The Dengzhen Yinjue, citing the Biography of Lord Su, says: “The Northern Pole Purple Chamber is the palace where the revered gods of the Heavenly Emperor dwell. There is also the Jade Firmament Luminous Chamber, located in the realm of Jade Clarity, and the Cinnabar Subtlety Chamber in Highest Clarity, where the Queen Mother of the West resides.”

It also says that the Spirit Archer Cinnabar Gate Yellow Chamber stands on Mount Fangzhu, East Flower, in the realm of Highest Clarity. It is the dwelling of Lord Azure Youth.

The second fascicle of the Declarations of the Perfected records a song sung by Consort Jade of the Purple Clarity Inner Palace: “Riding in a swift, light carriage, I roam through the eight directions and linger in the East Flower Chamber. The Queen Mother invites me to ascend the belvedere. I give a clear, long cry and ride upon the spirit wind.” In another song, Lady Purple Tenuity sings: “The immortals sit in rows within the Nine Spirits Chamber, striking the jade ao, an instrument used by immortals, and chanting the sounds of the Great Nonbeing.”

The fourth fascicle of the Declarations of the Perfected: Discerning Destiny says that songs sung by the numinous consorts are found in the upper East Flower Chamber of the Fangzhu Palace.

The Inner Instructions of the Central Scripture of the Nine Perfected of Highest Clarity says that the Emperor Lord of the Nine Mornings sits in the Great Ultimate Purple Chamber. There is also a Chamber of the Nine Heavens, where the Scarlet Text of Yu Yi, the Most High is enshrined. And there is the Upper Chamber of the Eight Radiances, where the Pearl Radiance Scarlet Youth dwells and chants the words of Jade Dawn.

The Inner Biography of Emperor Wu of Han says that the Purple Emerald Cinnabar Chamber and the Purple Firmament Crimson Chamber are both dwellings of the Queen Mother of the West.

The middle scroll of the Great Cavern Scripture records a spell of the King of Jade Clarity: “Thus he withdraws into one of the chambers of the Feather Bright Emperor of Highest Clarity.”

The scripture also says: “Light appears from the depths of darkness; vital essence and energy enter the Chamber of the Six Directions.”

It also says: “The assembled immortals sit in rows upon the seats of Trembling Numen, harmonizing the Chamber of the Five Days.”

It also says: “The inner heart is illuminated by the dark Cinnabar light, which moves through the Mudball Chamber amid purple Qi.”

It also says: “Blessings and Virtue gather within the dark Cinnabar; radiance issues from the Mudball Chamber.”

The Perfected Scripture of the Great Cavern says that the Perfected Scripture of the Great Cavern is kept in the Nameless Chamber.

It is also said: Baicheng Xusheng and the Queen Mother of the West of Aotai ascended the Dragon Terrace and entered a secluded chamber. They raised their cups and drank, savoring golden liquid—the divine elixir of the immortals in Daoist teaching—and lingered long in the chamber of dawn. They picked hidden lingzhi mushrooms for their meal and gathered the flesh of the moon phoenix to make dried meat. The scent of sandalwood spread through the sacred realm, while magnificent music resounded across the Eight Seas. The waters of Tianjin came to rest in swirling eddies, and winds from the eight directions stirred the feather ornaments on the immortals’ carriages. Then Zhibai Xusheng drew the seats together so they could gather close.

The Wenshi Neizhuan says: “The chamber of seven-colored flowing clouds is where the supreme perfected beings dwell.”

The Wenshi Neizhuan says: “The chamber of seven-colored flowing clouds is where the supreme perfected beings dwell.”

The second volume of the Daoxue Zhuan says: “The Elder of Dragon Might entered a grotto within the Jade Chamber and saw a white scroll, but its writing could not be made out.”

The Lingbao Jie sanshiliu xian neike says: “The forms of the divine boys and jade maidens return to the chamber of Great Simplicity, the dwelling place of the original, unadorned Qi.”

The Jiuchi banfu shangjing says: “The Lord of Mount Heng in the North inscribed my name in the chamber of purple slips, an immortal dwelling where purple talisman slips are kept.”

The Dadong ciyi pianmu says: “Jinchen placed a crown upon the jade boy, causing radiance to shine forth and flow freely in the chamber of accumulated resonance.”

It also says: “The Three Su Elemental Ladies dwell in the chamber of Heavenly Splendor.”

The first volume of the Taizhen ke says: “The Chamber of Ascent to the Azure is where the Celestial Master pays homage.”

The Siji mingke says: “Within it are the Chamber of Golden Splendor and the Chamber of Great Being; the Five Emperors’ Secret Instructions are concealed in these places. There is also the Jade Chamber of the Mysterious Capital, where the eight scrolls of the Yellow Book of Taiwei are kept hidden.”

The Shangqing bianhua qishisi fangjing says: “The Lord of Longevity and Destiny of the Southern Pole ascended the Grotto of Dark Jade and entered the chamber within the hidden cliffs.”

It also says: “The Precious Register of the Primordial Beginning is hidden in the Grotto Chamber of Nine Turns and is transmitted only once every thirty thousand kalpas.”

It also says: “The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning rode in the Ninefold Spirit Conveyance of Emerald Clouds, formed from blue-green clouds.”

It is also said: The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning rode the Azure Radiance Cloud of Nine Spirits and, amid rising clouds, ascended to the Jade Terrace in the vast sky, the Cold Spirit Purple Palace, and the Yellow Chamber. There he transmitted to the Primordial Lord of Longevity of the Southern Pole the Shangqing method of transforming and dissolving the body in seventy-four ways. “The method of dissolving the body” refers to Daoist practices for transforming the body and transcending physical form.

The Scripture on the Three Origins also says: The Primordial Lord of Longevity of the Southern Pole had not yet been able to ascend once more to the chamber of the Golden Window of the Dark Garden.

The Upper Scripture on Flying Through the Coral Cloud says: The Lord of the Great Dao ascended to the Cinnabar Spirit Vermilion Chamber above the cloud radiance, where he observed pure retreat for three months. Pure retreat means abstaining and purifying oneself while devoting the mind to practice.

The Upper Record on Ascending to the Profound through the Flying Feather Scripture says: Ascend to the Vermilion Chamber, and you will be able to command the myriad spirits.

The Scripture of the Seven Turns and Seven Transformations of the Divine Continent, Dancing in Heaven says: The Cinnabar Spirit opens the Azure Chamber, and the Green Court lays open the five chambers.

It also says: Wuying descends to the place of Cloud Support, where its beautiful spiritual radiance congeals in the Jade Yang Chamber.

The Secret Instructions on the Hidden Gate for Dispelling Demons says: The Scripture of the Great Primordial Cavern is kept in the Cinnabar Chamber of the High and Supreme Void Emperor.

The Scripture on the Exalted Revelations of Foreign Lands says: The Lord of the Azure Youth wanders in the Chamber of Azure Florescence.

The Lower Scroll of the Jade Instructions of the Red Script says: The four Perfected Ones who serve beneath the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning and govern the Heaven of the Lower Origin gather each month on the twenty-ninth day in the Yellow Chamber of the Great Mystery Capital of the Jade Capital in the Heaven of the High Emperor, to pay homage to the Celestial Perfected Ones.

The Ritual for Submitting Petitions to Shangqing says: Proceed toward the waves of the Azure Sea, and ride the flying wheel away from the Green Chamber.

The Lower Scroll of the Scripture of Eight Arts says: The Jade Taboo Names of the True August Lord of the Dao are kept in the Golden Orchid Purple Chamber. “Jade taboo names” refers to the names or secret names of immortals and deities.

The Scripture of the Assembly of Beings also says: From the center evolves the Dark Cavern Talisman, which illuminates the shadowed regions of the eight directions.

The Numinous Writ of the Empty Cavern says: The Seven Luminaries—that is, the sun, the moon, and the five major planets—shine brilliantly in the Shangqing realm, while Yuyi, the Daoist deity of the sun, illuminates the Jade Chamber.

The Scripture of Dao Traces says: In the Yellow Flowering Chamber, the Celestial King of Primordial Beginning commands the Five Elders, the Highest Perfected Ones, and the Immortal Lord of the Immortal Capital to transmit the method of dissolving the body. The Scripture on the Three Origins, meanwhile, is bestowed upon the Lord of Fate and Longevity of the Southern Pole.

It also says: Above the Ninefold Mystery Jade Chamber, the True Scripture of the Great Cavern is kept in secret.

The Dongxuan Jing says: The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning led the assembled perfected immortals into the Chamber of Nine Radiances.

It also says: The Purple Chamber of the Mysterious Capital lies in the Heaven of the Utmost Wind. Written above the chamber is the Book of Inner Sounds.

The Dao Bian Jing says: In the Purple Chamber of the Southern Pole, the High Minister, Lord Azure Youth, respectfully led the assembled perfected immortals inside.

It also says: The Purple Chamber of the Mysterious Capital lies in the Heaven of the Utmost Wind. Written above the chamber is the Book of Inner Sounds.

The Dao Bian Jing further says: In the Purple Chamber of the Southern Pole, the High Minister, Lord Azure Youth, kept the Jing of the Seven Stars’ Shifting Courses.

The Lower Volume of the Jade Characters of Inner Sounds says: The Wandu Chamber is where the Divine Inspector resides and governs, and where the yellow slips and documents of the assembled perfected immortals are gathered.

It also says: In the Palace of Purple Tenuity lives a divine tassel-bearing youth. If a practitioner at the “Gate of Passing Beyond” (a symbol of transcendence beyond life and death) receives a song sung by this youth, together with immeasurable texts, they can immediately regain their bodily form in the Chamber of Three Refinements, personally receive the Qi of Nature, and attain endless joy and longevity.

The Diagram of the Twenty-Four Births says: At that time, the people of the Golden Empyrean descended, loosened their robes and trousers, and entered the Chamber of Three Su’s.

The Thirty-Nine Chapters of the Great Cavern Jade Scripture further says: “Three Ease” is the name of the Supreme One’s Golden Chamber; the Five Elders, in their winding course of illumination, lengthen its daylight.

It also says: In the Heaven of the Upper Origin, five roads lead to the Jade Chamber. Once a practitioner’s name has been entered in the register of immortals, they may enter the Jade Chamber.

The Chronicle of the Successive Generations of the Post-Sage Dao Lord further says: The Dao Lord nurtured primordial Qi in the Chamber of Cinnabar and Plainness.

The Upper Scripture of the Golden Book and Jade Characters says: Those who contemplate the Nine Stars dwell in the Chamber of Cinnabar Jade, and they are able to travel there.

The Nine Chapters of the Eight Su’s Yang Song says: At dawn, enter the Forest of the Unseen; at dusk, gather for a banquet in the Chamber of Cinnabar Tenuity.

It also says: The Chamber of Mysterious Mound is where divine boys and girls sing.

It also says: Ride swiftly beyond the Eight Regions, and ascend with lofty strides to the Chamber of the Heavenly Gate.

The Nine Chapters of the Red Text of Yuyi, quoted in Hidden Writings on the Two Luminaries of the Sun and Moon, says: At dawn, enter the Forest of the Unseen; at dusk, gather for a banquet in the Chamber of Cinnabar Tenuity.

It also says: The Chamber of Mysterious Mound is where divine boys and girls sing.

It also says: Ride swiftly beyond the Eight Regions, and ascend with lofty strides to the Chamber of the Heavenly Gate.

The Hidden Writings on the Two Luminaries, the Sun and Moon say: The two secret texts, Red Writ of Yu Yi and Yellow Youth of Jie Lin, are kept in the chambers of the palaces of the Nine Heavens.

The Hidden Book of Jade Clarity says that this scripture is concealed in the Chamber of Precious Jade.

The Classic of the Three Sovereigns says: The Imperial Pole Observatory is lofty and magnificent, while the Chamber of Jade Grove shines with brilliant light.

The Illustrious Statutes of the Four Extremes say: The Thirty-Nine Chapters of the Great Cavern of Truth are secretly kept in the Ninefold Mystery Jade Chamber in the Heaven of High and Supreme Abundance.

The Illustrious Statutes of the Four Extremes also say: The Wondrous Scripture of Great Abundance is secretly kept in the Palace of Great Abundance above the Nine Heavens, placed in the Golden Terrace, Jade Chamber, and Chamber of Pure Spirit.

The seven scrolls of the Scripture of Dispelling Demons and Wisdom are kept in the Gate of Jade Clarity, that is, in the Elixir Chamber of the High and Supreme Sovereign of Emptiness.

The Steps Across the Heavenly Net is secretly kept in the Purple Chamber of High Spirit and Jade Emptiness.

The Correct Teachings of the Three Heavens are secretly kept above the Nine Heavens, within the purple doors of the Golden Chamber of Jade Clarity.

The Secret Talisman of the Five Phases is secretly kept in the Mysterious Chamber of the Jade Capital.

The Hidden Book of the Jade Pendant and Golden Bell of the Great Empyrean and the Mysterious Annals of the Seven Sages are secretly kept above the Nine Heavens, in the Chamber of Seven Treasures and Purple Radiance.

End of Volume Two of Matters and Manifestations in the Shangqing Dao Tradition

Volume Three of Matters and Manifestations in the Shangqing Dao Tradition

Section on the Treasure Terrace

The Classic of Original Appearance says: The Seven-Treasure Mysterious Terrace rises more than a hundred zhang above the ground. It has nine levels, with eight sides around it. Each level contains a seat of governance and is furnished with golden and jade tablets. Eighty-one chime stones hang there as well. They ring of their own accord at the six watches of day and night, sounding all eighty-one tones at once. Their voices are delicate, clear, and spacious, harmonious and refined, winding and pleasing to the ear. Everyone in the realm can hear them. Living beings gaze toward the direction from which the sound comes, cross their hands, and raise their fists in salute. The scripture also says that a divine bell hangs in midair above the Yellow-Jade Terrace and rings of its own accord.

The Classic of the Dharma Wheel says: When you see a terrace or pavilion, your mind should encompass the immeasurable. Let your vision extend in all directions to the farthest reaches, joining yourself with the spirits so that you may discern what is hidden and subtle.

The Classic of Jade Capital Mountain says: The lofty Heavenly-Treasure Terrace shines brilliantly, its radiance streaming in every direction.

The Daily Commentary explains: The Heavenly-Treasure Terrace is the nine-level Mysterious Terrace.

The Third Classic of Rising to the Profound says: The eight-sided Treasure Terrace is incomparably lofty and splendidly adorned. It is where the Great Being Shansheng takes his seat.

The Writings on the Five Victories says: The southern Victory Talisman is kept at the Mysterious Jade Terrace, on Phoenix-Grove Hill, and in the Realm of Cinnabar Clouds. It also says that one rides a dragon and ascends to the Western Florescence Terrace to pay homage to the Imperial Perfected. The western Victory Talisman is kept in a chamber of the Purple-Phoenix Lofty Terrace. It also says that the Victory Talisman shines more brilliantly than the morning light, its radiance streaming down upon the north-facing terrace, where people pay homage to the Imperial Perfected. The northern Victory Talisman is kept at the Clear-Mysterious Orchid-Brine Jade-Treasure Terrace. Mysterious writings flutter above the Mysterious Governance Lofty Terrace. The central Victory Talisman is kept beneath Jade Capital, within the Lofty Terrace.

The Lower Scroll of the Scripture of the Red Writings and Jade Instructions says: The Five Elders of the Origin are always present in the first, third, fifth, and seventh months…

It is also said that the Central Talismans—sacredly efficacious symbols—are secretly stored beneath Jade Capital, within a high terrace.

The Lower Chapter of the Scripture of Red Writings and Jade Instructions says: The Five Venerable Lords of Primordial Beginning, five exalted deities who serve the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning, regularly assemble in the first, third, fifth, seventh, ninth, and eleventh months at the Primordial Yang Purple Tenuity Terrace in the Palace of Numinous Capital in the highest of the Three Heavens. There they gather and calculate the foundations of the Celestial Dao, and determine and verify the laws governing the movements of Heaven and Earth.

It is also said that the Great Sage of the Northern Heaven of Primordial Beginning regularly goes on the eighth day of each month to pay homage to the celestial realm at the Yin-Origin Terrace on Jade Mountain, north of the Mysterious Metropolis of Lingbao.

It is also said that the Great Sage of the Southeastern Heaven of Primordial Beginning regularly goes on the eighteenth day of each month to pay homage to the celestial statutes and registers at the Numinous Cavern Cinnabar Terrace on Jade Capital Mountain, in the Great Mysterious Metropolis of Lingbao.

The Scripture of Red Writings and Jade Instructions says: The Perfected One of Great Simplicity in the Upper Palace of Great Mystery—an honorific title of an immortal—regularly meets with the assembled immortal officials on the day of the spring equinox at the Jade Terrace of Kunlun to revise the True Scripture of Lingbao.

It is also said that the Perfected One of Yang Terrace regularly meets with the immortal officials and Jade Maidens on the day of the Beginning of Winter at Lingbao’s Yang Terrace to study and practice the Dao registers, which record the names and merits of those who cultivate the Dao.

The Scripture of Original Conduct says: The Jade Terrace for Seeking the Perfected was built by King Wan of the country of Jambudvipa, a place-name in ancient Buddhist cosmology, for his daughter Du Ming.

The Scripture of the Dharma Wheel says: The Dharma Wheel, a symbol of the circulation of the teaching, is kept in the Six Directions Terrace of the Most High.

It is also said that the wondrous jade writings and purple characters are stored within the Violet Orchid Terrace.

It is also said: “I open the Eight Gates, and the verses issue forth from the Mysterious Terrace of the Most High.”

The Scripture of Collected Chapters says: The Celestial Worthy leads the assembled perfected immortals into the Six Directions Terrace.

It is also said that the wondrous jade writings and purple characters are stored within the Violet Orchid Terrace.

It is also said: “I open the Eight Gates, and the verses issue forth from the Mysterious Terrace of the Most High.”

The Scripture of Collected Chapters also says: The Celestial Worthy leads the assembled perfected immortals into the Golden Terrace of the Great Void.

The Numinous Chapters of the Empty Cavern says: The Purple Tenuity star palace shines upon seven terraces, while the Qian tree, a divine tree of the heavens, grows luxuriantly amid the jade clouds.

The Chapter on the Generation of the Nine Heavens says: The Chapter on Generating the Spirits is secretly stored in the Purple Yang Jade Terrace, enclosed within nine layers of golden lattice in the Great Existence Heaven. This account also appears in the Scripture on the Five Refinements of Corpse Generation.

Chapter Eighteen of the Scripture of Original Forms says: In the Upper Terrace of Utmost Virtue, peerless guests dwell in comfort and ease.

It is also said: The purple-gold chamber adorned with the Seven Treasures is a terrace of quiet simplicity and tranquility, where joy endures without end.

The place where purple Qi (vital energy) gathers is called a “Zhi”; the platform that accords with the purple Qi is called the “Platform of Purple Qi.” The Golden Gate and Jade Door stand open to welcome everyone.

The Twentieth Scripture says: When the movement of Heaven is about to quicken, the True Writ will be withdrawn to the Jade Radiance Mysterious Platform beyond the Great Luo Heaven.

It also says: The Platform of Tranquil Contentment.

It further speaks of a divine platform where immortals are cultivated and souls summoned. Beyond the South Sea, the daughter of the king of the Tujia kingdom was named Haoqiu. She once studied the Dao here and departed as an immortal. The king then built a Gathering Spirits Platform, a Hall of the Three Masters, and a Chamber for Expounding the Writings at this site, to teach the Dao widely. A thousand people once studied there.

The Upper Scripture on the Golden Chamber’s Deliverance of Life says: At the Purple Platform in the Phoenix Capital of the Cavern of Emptiness, the Southern Pole’s Chief Director, the Lord of Prohibitions, asked the Celestial Worthy about the method of delivering life.

The sixth section of the Scripture of Ascending to the Mysterious says: Dwell at ease on the Mysterious Capital Platform, and respectfully bow before the Great Nonbeing.

The Jade Characters of Inner Sounds says: The Nine-Tiered Platform stands atop Jade Capital Mountain, its radiance appearing within the Mysterious Capital. The Flying Immortals often scatter lily incense and spread flowers like five-colored auspicious clouds. On the platform is the Jade Youth of Great Truth. Three times each day, he raises the Banner of the Ten Absolutes. As the banner makes one circuit, the heavens come to pay court, circle the platform three times, and recite the Cavern Chapters, Daoist scriptures.

It also says: “Fragrant and Resplendent Heaven” is another name for the Mysterious Platform of Jade Capital. The Perfected One of Western Spirit often recites the Boundless Cavern Chapters and journeys back and forth across the platform.

It further says: Ascend into Jade Clarity and go to the Platform of Purple Tenuity to pay court.

The Scripture of Repenting for Sins at the Eight Seasonal Nodes says: On the days of the Eight Seasonal Nodes—the four beginnings of the seasons, the two equinoxes, and the two solstices—the Supreme Emperor of the Upper Sovereign ascends the Cinnabar Purple Platform to deliberate and determine the sins and blessings of the people.

The Great Centrality says: Go to the Platform of Purple Tenuity to pay court.

The Scripture of Repenting for Sins at the Eight Seasonal Nodes also says: On the days of the Eight Seasonal Nodes, the Supreme Emperor of the Upper Sovereign ascends the Cinnabar Purple Platform to deliberate and determine the sins and blessings of the people.

The Jing of the Great Grotto in Thirty-Nine Chapters says, “‘Virtue’s Blade’ is the name of a terrace in the Nine Heavens.” It also says that another terrace in the Nine Heavens is called the “Terrace of Illuminating Truth,” where three suns rise. In the human world, it is called “Illuminating Truth,” and is also known as “Phoenix Birth.”

It also says that in the Yuqing Heaven there is a “Terrace of Interwoven Radiance,” beneath which lies the “Sea of Ten Thousand Fords.”

It says that “Dragon Mountain” is a high terrace in the Yuqing Heaven. In the human world, it is called “Elegant Brightness,” and is also known as the “Bright Hall.”

It also says that the “Night Terrace of the Western Field” is where the Great Emperor resides. The terrace stands beside the Pool of Flowing Waters and extends a hundred li in every direction. High Immortals come there to roam, and the Three Primordials—the three forms of primordial Qi, or the Three Officials, in Daoist teaching—also return in their chariots. This terrace is in the Heaven of the Great Beginning.

The Red-Bordered Talisman says that the Heavenly King of Primordial Beginning stored the Nine Red-Bordered Talismans in the Mottled-Jade Terrace of the Shangqing Heaven.

The Inner Traditions of Lord Mao says that in the Yuqing Heaven there is a Terrace of Scattered Blossoms, where the Dao Lords of the Four Dippers and Seven Stars govern.

It also says that the Perfected One of the Morning Center, who wears the Talisman for Welcoming and Extending the Perfected, resides at the Terrace of Canglang.

It says that the Lord Great Emperor built the Terrace of Fuso Chao Hui Fang.

The Chronicle of the Latter Sage, Lord Dao says that Lord Peng of the Latter Sage governs from the Terrace of Spiritual Radiance Above.

The Upper Scripture of Golden Books and Jade Characters says that a golden book is kept in the Western Mysterious Grotto Terrace: the Scripture of the Grotto Chamber.

The Upper Scripture of Great Origin says that the Great Tiger Talisman of Jade Radiance and Upper Primordial Qi is kept at the Western Jade Terrace of Great Origin.

It also says that the incantation of King Wei is kept above the Yuqing Heaven of the Nine Heavens, at the Western Spirit Terrace of Great Origin.

The Scripture of Guiding and Drawing the Three Lights says that the Three Lights shine upon the Eight Convergences, their radiance spreading throughout the Terrace of the Nine Mysteries.

It also says that Perfected One of Settled Radiance guides and draws forth primordial Qi at the Terrace of Transcendent Vision in the Heaven of Sovereign Continuance, while Perfected One of Nine Transformations does so at the Gaoyang Yuan Terrace in the Heaven of Jade Countenance. In Daoist teaching, “guiding and drawing forth primordial Qi” means regulating and circulating the breath through practices such as guiding exercises and breathwork.

It is also said: The Perfected One Who Guides the Immortals dwells on the Cloud-Shaded Terrace of the Flower Forest in Hetong Heaven, where he guides and regulates the primordial Qi of Heaven and Earth. Here, “guiding primordial Qi” refers to a cultivation practice for directing and regulating the primordial Qi of Heaven and Earth.

It is also said: The Perfected One of Cloud Radiance dwells on the Terrace of the Mysterious Chanting Treasure in Pingyu Heaven, where he guides and regulates primordial Qi.

It is also said: The Perfected One of Yang Jade dwells on the Terrace of Returning Yin and Supreme Truth in Wenju Heaven, where he guides and regulates primordial Qi. The Perfected One Who Guides the Immortals dwells on the Cloud-Shaded Terrace of the Flower Forest in Hetong Heaven, where he guides and regulates primordial Qi.

It is also said: The Perfected One of Cloud Radiance dwells on the Terrace of the Mysterious Chanting Treasure in Pingyu Heaven, where he guides and regulates primordial Qi.

It is also said: The Perfected One of Yang Jade dwells on the Terrace of Returning Yin and Supreme Truth in Wenju Heaven, where he guides and regulates primordial Qi.

It is also said: The Perfected One of Dharma Qi dwells on the Flying Terrace of Cloud Knots in Moyi Heaven, where he guides and regulates primordial Qi.

It is also said: The Perfected One of Marsh Infant dwells on the Terrace of Boundless Ultimate Vision in Yueheng Heaven, where he guides and regulates primordial Qi.

It is also said: The Perfected One of Flowing Essence dwells on the Terrace of Ten Extremes and Nine Florescences in Mengyi Heaven, where he guides and regulates primordial Qi.

The Nine Chapters of the Yang Songs of the Three Lights and Eight Su says: “The Mysterious Terrace is built with nine tiers of halls. Crimson furnishings are arranged throughout, gleaming with the radiance of emerald jade.”

The Hidden Writings on the Two Luminaries, the Sun and Moon says: “The Hidden Luminous Yellow Writings are stored in the Terrace of Cinnabar Jade.” Here, “Hidden Luminous Yellow Writings” refers to scriptural texts concerning secret methods for cultivating the Sun and Moon; the “Terrace of Cinnabar Jade” is where they are kept.

It is also said: The Lofty Upper Terrace has golden pillars and jade walls, and the titles of the chapters of the Jing of Yuyi and Jielin are engraved upon it.

The Jing of Original Form says that in the land of Fusang there is a Hall of Primordial Beginning, a temple dedicated to the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning where ritual ceremonies are held. Inside stands a scripture altar adorned with the Seven Treasures. Five honored scriptures are kept there: the first, the True Scripture of the Great Cavern, is stored in a blue jade case; the second, the True Scripture of the Numinous Treasure, in a red jade chest; the third, the Scripture of Boundless Samadhi, in a white jade case; the fourth, the Divine and True Scripture of the Dao and Its Virtue, in a black jade chest; and the fifth, the Heavenly Scene Scripture of Original Form, rests on a yellow jade platform. Divine bells hang in the air and ring of their own accord. Immortal youths and jade maidens offer flowers, incense, and precious talismans to the scriptures. This veneration has continued without interruption to the present day.

The Scripture of Returning to the Origin through the Nine Ways of the Cavern of Truth says: “Guide the reins of the carriage, ascend the Dark Feather Platform, and fly through the realm of the Nine Mysteries.”

The scripture also says: “The Terrace of the Nine Spirits emerges from the void; its radiance shines forth, and its essence and Qi illuminate the Great Rosy Mists.”

The Great Precepts for the Three Hundred Contemplations of the Body says: “On the terrace of flowing rosy clouds adorned with the Seven Treasures, the Heavenly Worthy, the Most High, dwells and presides.”

The Scripture on Raising the Corpse and Delivering the Dead says: “The Purple Phoenix City rises majestically, and the Terrace of the Nine Heavens reaches high into the clouds.”

Volume 18 of the Biographies of Daoist Scholars records that the Prince of Changsha in the Song built the Chunbai Scripture Terrace for Ni Daocun, a man from Dantu in the Eastern Sea.

Volume 20 records that Chuan Lihé was from the northern region, a niece of Emperor Huan of Han, and the daughter of the Attendant-in-Ordinary Chuan Jian. After attaining the Dao, she was received into the Palace of Easy Transcendence and became the presiding mistress of the Terrace of Embracing Truth.

The Biographies of Immortals says that Gong of the Cultivated Sheep was a man of Wei. He once placed a stone sheep on the Terrace of Spiritual Communion, then disappeared without a trace.

Volume 114 of the Taiping Jing says that the Terrace of Radiance Above the Numinous is governed by Grand Preceptor Peng Guangyuan.

The scripture also says that the Jade Terrace of the Great Void is where the Lord of the Way of Great Peace resides.

The Great Cavern Perfect Scripture says: Langfeng’s Jade Terrace, a jade terrace in the immortal realm, oversees the registers of those who study the Dao. It is where the names of cultivators are entered.

The Scripture of the Seventy-Four Transformations says: The Purple Tenuity Terrace houses secret Fulu texts associated with the Lower Origin and the Eight Aspects.

The Scripture of One’s Original Practice says: The Jade Terrace of the Perfect Lord stands a hundred zhang high. Du Ming, daughter of King Wan of the Floating Benefit Kingdom, lives there.

The Shangqing Scripture says: The Beginning Radiance Court and the Wishful Forest Terrace on Mount Guang sang are where the Great Emperor of Fusang resides.

The scripture also says: The Terrace of Numinous Radiance is where the Lord of the Way Who Protects the Sovereign resides; the Vermilion Terrace on Mount Liuyunheng is where the Supreme Perfect Lord resides.

The Declarations of the Perfected says: Lady Li presides over the Terrace of Manifest Numinous Power in the Abode of the Eight Directions.

The scripture also says: the Terrace of Containing the Perfected is where Lady Xiechen resides.

The Declarations of the Perfected says: the White Jade Turtle Terrace is where the Primordial Lady of the Nine Numinous Ones, the Great Perfected, received her investiture.

The Preface to the Original Beginning’s Five Elders’ Red Writs and Jade Chapters of Perfect Texts says: the Golden Terrace of the Great Void is where the Celestial Worthy sits in authority.

The Lower Section of the Turtle Mountain Primordial Register says: the Primordial Register is at the Terrace of the South Pole.

The Scripture of Original Forms says: the Jade Treasure Terrace of Great Clarity is where the Celestial Worthy Fajing sits in authority.

The Lower Section of the Turtle Mountain Primordial Register also says: the Primordial Register is at the Terrace of the South Pole.

The Scripture of Original Forms also says: the Jade Treasure Terrace of Great Clarity is where the Perfected Fajing teaches the Scripture of Original Yang.

The scripture also says: the Celestial Worthy teaches the Perfect Text of the Numinous Treasure at the Clear and Mysterious Jade Terrace in the Great Floating Li Kingdom of the East. At the Ninefold Mysterious Terrace in the Measureless Kingdom, he ascends the lion throne known as the Phoenix Seat of Seven Treasures—a teaching seat shaped like a phoenix and adorned with the Seven Treasures—and teaches the Wondrous Scripture of Original Forms.

It also says: in the Measureless Kingdom, purple qi billows and gathers to form the Terrace of the Six Directions of Purple Qi. On the terrace, golden gates and jade doors stand open to welcome all.

The scripture also says: the Celestial Worthy teaches the Scripture of Original Forms at the Clear Jade Ninefold Mysterious Terrace in the Kingdom of the Clear Numinous Beginning Elder. The Eastern Florescence Ninefold Mysterious Terrace is built up in tier upon tier of jade.

The Hidden Words of the Numinous Treasure says: the Nine Capitals are nine tiers of lofty terraces on Jade Capital Mountain, rising conspicuously above the Mysterious Capital.

Another record states that “Fulang Heaven” is another name for the Jade Capital’s Mysterious Terrace. The Perfected One of the Western Numinous Realm often recited the Wuliang Dongzhang and circled about on the Mysterious Terrace.

The Talismans of the Five Bells of the Immortals Above says that the Celestial Lord of Taiwei ascended the Terrace of the Nine Mysterious Void-Births, where five kinds of talismanic script appeared and disappeared in the air, seeming to be there and not there.

The Hidden Instructions for Ascending to Perfection records that golden books are stored within the Immortal Terrace of Shangqing.

Another record states that documents written on azure jade slips are kept on the Nine Mysterious Terrace of Taiji; the Fangzhu Funa Terrace is where the names of those who have ascended are inscribed; and the Elixir Terrace of the Mysterious Capital holds registers made of white jade, bearing names written in gold.

The Scripture of the Three Ways in Their Proper Sequence says that Dao practitioners in later ages may ascend the Terrace of the Nine Phoenixes after attaining the Dao and becoming immortals.

The Jade Chapters of the Red Writ of the Five Elders of Yuanshi says that the Celestial Worthy leads the assembled Perfected Ones into the Terrace of Great Emptiness.

The True Scripture of the Great Elixir says that the Qihe Terrace lies in the Heaven of Jade Clarity.

The second scroll of the Great Cavern Scripture records that the Scripture of the Lord of Yellow Lao is sealed away on the Terrace of Plain Jade and the Northern Cold Golden Terrace.

The Scripture of Original Practice says that the Tongyang Terrace is where the imperial consorts practiced the Dao.

The Declarations of the Perfected records that Zhu Ruzi had not yet entered Mount Chishui to practice the Dao when he was in the Wu region. After attaining the Dao, he rode a five-colored cloud chariot up to heaven; he now resides on the Terrace of Accumulated Stone.

Another record states that the Terrace of Containing Perfection lies within a grotto-heaven. Zhang Weizi lived in the time of Emperor Zhao of Han and loved practicing the Dao; later, he entered the Terrace of Containing Perfection.

The Record of the Great Cavern says that Mount Kunlun is also called the Terrace of Mysterious Garden. The Record of the Ten Continents contains a related account.

The True Scripture of Yuanshi’s Treasure of Perfection says that the Queen Mother of the West practiced quiet purification on Mount Guishan, ascended the Terrace of Luminous Jade, and paid reverence to the Mysterious Writ.

The Scripture of the Cavern Mystery says: The Terrace of Beginning Yang is located in Ruanle Heaven, where books of inner sounds are kept.

It also says: The Terrace of Primordial Yang and Purple Tenuity is located in the Highest Three Heavens. The Venerable Divine Elder of Heaven, the emperors of the various heavens, and the perfected beings of wondrous conduct gather there six times each year. They compile the celestial tallies and calculate and verify the measures governing the movements of the heavenly seasons.

The Scripture of the Cavern Truth says that the Terrace of Dark Numinosity holds the Precious Scripture of the Five Elders, the Twelve Vows, the Eight Questions of the Dark Mother, and the Scripture in Thirty-Nine Chapters. The Golden Terrace holds the Plain Words of the Three Nines and the Way of the Dark Elixir’s Transformation into the Three Perfected Ones of the Cavern Origin.

It also says: The Most High keeps the Jade Canons of the Three Primordial Ones and the Scripture of the Three Primordial Ones’ Distribution within the terrace.

It also says: The Terrace of Boundless Mystery is governed by the Heavenly King of Yudan Wuliang; the Terrace of Seven-Treasure Jade is governed by the Heavenly King of Highest Highest Meditation and Goodness; the Jade Terrace of the Vermilion Palace is governed by the Heavenly King of Serene Stillness; the Nine-Tiered Jade Terrace is governed by the Heavenly King of Unarrogant Joy; and the Purple Jade Terrace is governed by the Heavenly King of Kama.

It also says: The Nine-Tiered Jade Terrace stands above the Celestial Gate of the Nine Heavens. It preserves the jade names of the August Sovereign, the Most Perfect and High Emperor, as well as the registers of the perfected beings of the Later Sage. The Jade Morning of the Great Void is responsible for overseeing and administering them. The Six-Tiered Jade Terrace also stands above the Celestial Gate of the Nine Heavens. It holds ten thousand scrolls of golden slips and jade tablets, along with purple phoenix cinnabar chapters, and is administered by the Most High Netherworld Jade Gentleman. The Three-Tiered Jade Terrace likewise stands above the Celestial Gate of the Nine Heavens. It holds three hundred volumes of the Precious Scripture of Great Clarity and the registers and lists of perfected beings who study to become immortals. These are administered by the Jade Secretary Gentleman, the Great Emperor’s Inspector of the Perfected.

It also says: The Jade Terrace holds the Most High Emperor’s Golden Mystery Feathered Chapters and the Hidden Sounds of the Myriad Spirits.

It also says: The registers and lists of perfected beings who study to become immortals are administered by the Jade Secretary Gentleman, the Great Emperor’s Inspector of the Perfected.

It is also recorded that the Golden Mysterious Feathered Chapter and the Hidden Sounds of the Myriad Spirits of the High Supreme Emperor are stored in the Jade Terrace, a lofty platform in the realm of the immortals.

It is also recorded that the Inner Names of Emptiness and Constancy are stored in the Purple Terrace of Seven Reflections. Practitioners walk by treading the Celestial Net, a footwork pattern symbolizing the order of the stars in heaven.

The Terrace of Interwoven Splendor, the Dragon Mountain Terrace, and the Terrace of Elegant Radiance are places where the Supreme True One of the Earthly Emperor travels.

The Scripture of the Cavern Mystery says that the Yang Terrace lies in the Heaven of Jia Yi, and that the Inner Sounds are written upon it.

The Statutes of Illumination for the Four Extremities says that during Emperor Yu’s reign, the True King of the Nine Heavens rode in a chariot drawn by nine dragons and descended to the Terrace of Nurtured Virtue, where he transmitted this True Text to Emperor Yu.

The Scripture of Original Practice says that the Forest of Prosperity Jade Terrace is where the Most High Lord of the Dao sealed and stored scriptures.

The Orthodox Methods of the Three Heavens of Highest Clarity says that the talismans of the Six Heavens are placed in the Mysterious Terrace of the Three Origins.

The Jade Statutes of the Three Origins says that the Purple Text of the Jade Statutes, the True Book of the Nine Heavens, is stored in the Three Mysterious Terraces.

It is also recorded that the verification documents of the Three Origins of the Supreme True Ones are stored in the Western Sands Square Terrace.

It is also recorded that the verification documents of the Flying Immortals are stored in the Terrace of Morning Lamps; these documents are revealed above the Nine Heavens.

It is also recorded that the inscription of the Jade Statutes of the Three Origins is carved into the Terrace of Golden Ramparts.

It is also recorded that the Golden Book of the Great True One is stored in the Terrace of Phoenix Birth.

The Scripture of Golden Slips and Jade Characters says that the Scripture of Jade Pendants and Golden Ornaments is stored in the Yang Terrace of the Cavern Heaven.

The Scripture of the Eight Radiances of Jade Light says that the Chapter of the Great Void is sealed away in the Jade Treasure Terrace.

It is also recorded that the Most High Lord of the Dao once ascended the Terrace of Lofty Crags and the Chamber of Nine Bends.

The Great Being of the Most High Scripture says that the Statutes of Illumination of the Nine True Ones of the Mysterious Capital are stored in the Numinous Terrace of Great Mystery.

The Chapter of the Mysterious Mother of Emptiness is also sealed away in the Jade Treasure Terrace.

The Most High Lord of the Dao (Taishang Daojun), one of the revered deities of the Upper Clarity tradition (Shangqing), once again ascended a lofty tower and entered a palace chamber winding deep into the distance.

The Upper Scroll of the Scripture of the Most High Great Being (Taishang Dayou Jing Shang) says: Within the Numinous Terrace of Great Mystery are kept the Nine True Clarifying Ordinances of the Mysterious Capital (rules and liturgical documents of Daoism).

The Scripture of the Eight Gates of the Mysterious Mother (Xuanmu Bamen Jing) says: The Terrace of Eastern Dawn is where the Limitless High Perfected Ones—supreme immortals revered in Daoism—reside.

The Lower Scroll of the Great Cavern Scripture (Dadong Jing Xia) says: Within the Golden Terrace of Northern Cold dwell the Dragon-Flower Jade Maidens, Daoist immortals.

Another scripture says: The Mifanluo Terrace is located in the Jade Clarity Heaven, a high celestial realm in Daoist cosmology. Here, the Most High Jade Emperor, the Radiant Lord of the Great Dao, governs the secret Fulu (talismans and registers) of the Highest Dao of Clear Heaven and Great Limitlessness.

The Scripture of the Cavern Chamber (Dongfang Jing) says: The Limitless High Perfected Ones travel among the Nine Heavens and gather in the realm of the Seven Emptinesses. They ride carriages that fly through the air and drive the chariot of the Great Empyrean. Emerging from the Yellow Chamber—a chamber within the body in Daoist inner cultivation—they ascend the Terrace of Eastern Dawn, roam beneath the Dantian (energy center), and rest in ease, feasting and drinking among the Azure Clouds.

The Jade Scripture of the Great Cavern (Dadong Yu Jing) says: They joyfully wander where the Whirling Wind gathers, while jade ornaments ring at the Terrace of the Nine Numinous Ones.

Another scripture says: Dragon Mountain is a lofty terrace in the Jade Clarity Heaven, where the Jade Characters of the Celestial Emperor—sacred Daoist script—are kept.

The Radiant Terrace of Elegance is an immortal terrace in the Jade Clarity Heaven. In the human world, the corresponding terrace hall is called the Bright Hall (Mingtang).

The Jade Scripture (Yu Jing) says: In the Jade True Heaven, radiant Qi (vital energy) shines brightly, illuminating the Terrace of the Three Origins, a celestial terrace associated with the Three Origins.

Another scripture says: The Terrace of Confluence and Direction is an immortal terrace in the Heaven of the Great Emperor. In the human world, the corresponding terrace hall is also called the Bright Hall.

The Jade Scripture also says: In the Jade True Heaven, radiant Qi shines brightly, illuminating the Terrace of the Three Origins.

The scripture further says: The Terrace of Confluence and Direction is where the Great Emperor Lord attends to affairs.

The Biography of Lord Mao (Mao Jun Zhuan) says: Yingming rode a carriage borne by flying winds to the Vermilion Terrace on Mount Heng, where he paid a visit to the Perfected One of Great Emptiness.

Another scripture says: The Golden Terrace holds sealed copies of the Inner Scriptures of the High Perfected Ones, texts for the cultivation of advanced immortals.

The Inner Writings on the Golden Slips of the Most High (Taishang Jinjian Neiwen) says: Beneath the Terrace of Mysterious Feathers is a youth who gathers the Perfected Ones. He raises his head to summon the immortal companions of Jade Dawn.

Another scripture says: At the Terrace of the Nine Numinous Ones, Jade Empyrean light shines across the northern sky, while branches like fine jade appear among the trees. The Terrace of the Nine Numinous Ones manifests of its own accord, its brilliance illuminating the Great Empyrean.

The Scripture of the Dao of Primordial Lord of Shangqing says that the Vermilion Fire Terrace is where Primordial Lord of Taiji rides in her Lingyu carriage, its bells ringing as she ascends.

The Scripture of Jade Capital Mountain says: “Look up at the towering Terrace of Ten Thousand Fathoms, rising into the clouds; look down at the web of clouds woven from purple vapor.”

The Scripture of the Dao of the Jade Numina Lord of the August Sovereign says that Virtue’s Terrace is the name of a heavenly terrace; in the human world, it is called “Life Blossoms.” The scripture also says that the Terrace of Luminous Truth shines above the Nine Heavens, where three suns rise. In the human world, Luminous Truth is called “Wind Arises.”

The Scripture of the Eight Effulgences Flying through Shangqing says that the Jade Treasure Terrace is where the Three Primordial Lords ascend.

Volume Four of the Secret Instructions for Ascending to Truehood says that the Scripture of Luminous Hall and Mysterious Truth is kept within the Mysterious Truth White Tortoise Terrace. Kunlun’s Jade Terrace is the palace of the Queen Mother of the West. Also called the Upper Terrace of Western Jade, it is where the secret writings of the heavens are kept.

The Secret Instructions for Ascending to Truehood also records that the Shangqing realm contains the Vermilion City and Purple Terrace. Beneath the steps of the Jade Venerable, the Great Sovereign Emperor of the August Sovereign summons the assembled Perfected Ones there to judge the people of the world, determining their guilt and blessings. The Seven Spirits Terrace is also in the Shangqing realm; it is where the Dao Lord Jade Dawn resides. The Terrace of Numina and Radiance is where Lord Peng, the Grand Preceptor, resides. The Terrace of Luminous Truth lies on Mount Eight Stations in the Eastern Sea, within the Shangqing realm; it is where the Great Emperor resides. The Terrace of Funa Jade lies on Mount Fangzhu Donghua in the Shangqing realm; it is where Lord Green Lad resides. The Terrace of Fangzhang stands on Mount Fangzhang in the Eastern Sea; it is where Lady Li of Luminous Potency resides. The Terrace of Hidden Origin lies amid the Yangluo Mountains, south of the Land of Vermilion Dragons.

The scriptures also mention the Terrace of Xilin in the Shangqing realm, and again record the locations of the Terrace of Funa Jade, the Terrace of Fangzhang, and the Terrace of Hidden Origin, along with the names of those who reside there.

It is also said that in the Shangqing realm there is a Xilin Terrace, where the Great Emperor Dao Lord resides.

It is also said that the Chenghua Terrace is the dwelling of He Yuan. He Yuan, whose courtesy name was Cidao, once served as Director of the Secretariat in the Jin dynasty. Through the accumulated merit of his hidden virtuous deeds, he attained the Dao and came to dwell on the Chenghua Terrace.

The fifth scroll of the Zhen’gao says that the Lord of the Azure Youth of the Eastern Sea often ascends the Donghua Terrace at Fangzhu on a Dingmao day. He gazes in every direction, turns toward the sun, and bows twice, saying, “I am about to set out.” By doing so, he can then absorb the sun’s vital essence. “Absorbing the sun’s essence” refers to the Daoist practice of taking in the vital energy of sunlight.

It is also said that Juanzi once received the “Method of the Five Pecks, Inner Unity” on Emei Terrace. This is a Daoist method of cultivation.

The second scroll of the Zhen’gao says that the Lady of Luminous Spirit of the Eastern Palace, Li Lingfei, presides over Fangzhang Terrace.

The fourth section, “Determining One’s Destiny,” in the Zhen’gao records a poem by Lady Li of Luminous Spirit: “The flying carriage rises to the High Dawn Terrace; I rein in the reins at the edge of the dark dragon.” The lines depict riding a flying carriage toward a lofty immortal realm.

The second scroll of the Zhen’gao says that on North Cold Terrace there are immortals who play ao music; the Seven Spirits and purple clouds are also found there.

The seventh scroll of the Zhen’gao says that the immortal Cai Tiansheng lived in seclusion on Cunfang Terrace. There is also a Jishi Terrace, where Zhu Ruzi dwelt after attaining the Dao.

The sixth scripture of the Shengxuan says that Jade Clarity Terrace is a place where immortals and sages roam.

The tenth scroll of the Zhen’gao says that the Huo Luo talisman is found on Fengzhao Terrace, among the caves of Fangyu Mountain. The Huo Luo talisman is a type of Daoist Fulu (talismans and registers).

The Inner Instructions of the Central Scripture of the Nine Perfected Ones of Shangqing says that the High Terrace of the Supreme Palace holds the Supreme Jade Dawn, Yu Yi’s Red Jade Text for Racing with the Sun and the Supreme Jade Dawn, Jie Lin’s Yellow Radiance Jade Charter for Racing with the Moon. These two scriptures are engraved on jade slips and written in gold characters.

The Catalogue of the Female Unity Chapter of the Great Cavern says that the True Scripture of the Great Cavern is secretly stored above the Nine Heavens, in the Supreme Mystic Numinous Terrace of the Palace of Great Being.

The middle scroll of the Great Cavern Scripture says: “At dawn, ascend the Nine Radiances Terrace; at dusk, enter the Gate of Divine Empyrean.”

It is also said that by resting for a long time on the Terrace of Feathers, one can stabilize one’s Qi in the Chamber of the Five Elders.

It is also said that the Perfected Ones within the Dipper scatter flowers on Jade Clarity Terrace.

The Dadong Zhenjing says: “In the midst of the thousand white hills of Qinglin stands the Jinmu Terrace, where the Youth of Shaoye dwells.”

The Qixing Yidu Jing says: “The Lord Emperor always dwells on the Langxuan Terrace.”

The phrase “people scatter flowers on the terrace of Jade Purity” means that people scatter flowers on the Terrace of Jade Purity. Scattering flowers is a ritual offering of reverence to the divine immortals.

The Dadong Zhenjing says: “In the midst of the thousand white hills of Qinglin stands the Jinmu Terrace, where the Youth of Shaoye dwells.”

The Qixing Yidu Jing says: “The Lord Emperor always dwells on the Langxuan Terrace.”

The scripture also says: “The Lord Emperor ascends the Jade Terrace of the Supreme Ultimate.”

The Zidu Yanguang Jing says: “The Lord Emperor of the Taiwei Heaven chants aloud on the Jiuxuan Terrace, while cool, clear Qi gathers among the cliffs and ridges.”

The scripture also says: “I loosen my robe and come to the Xuanlang Terrace, where the wish in my heart is fulfilled.”

It further says: “When the Lord Emperor of the Taiwei Heaven first received Qi, the wondrous scenes between Heaven and Earth had only just come into being. He then ascended the Jiuxuan Terrace of Empty Birth.”

The Taizhen Ke Shang says: “The Chongxuan Terrace is where the Celestial Master pays homage and performs rites.”

The Siji Mingke says: “The Siji Mingke is sealed away in the Golden Gate’s Purple Terrace.”

The scripture also says: “In the east stands the Great Bright Yang Terrace. The Jade Minister of the Azure Emperor, whose surname is Liang and whose personal name is Shudu, governs this terrace and oversees human lifespans and the time of death.”

It further says: “The Sanhua Yaojing Jing is kept in secret in the Palace of Great Being above the Nine Heavens, placed within a Seven-Treasure Terrace illuminated by golden light.”

It also says: “The Shangqing Yinshu is kept in secret within the Three-Treasure Mysterious Terrace.”

It further says: “On the Seven-Treasure Terrace of the Jade Capital, those who cultivate the Purple Phoenix Red Script ride dragon chariots and soar through the air to that place.”

The Shangqing Bianhua Qishisi Fang Jing says: “The Lord of Long Life and Destiny of the Southern Pole in Shangqing hides the scriptures in the Cloud Palace of Vermilion Spirit on the Jade Terrace, and also in the Cloud Terrace of the Orchid Court.”

The scripture also says: “Ascend the Purple-Bi Mysterious Terrace in the distant heights of the sky.”

It further says: “Nine kinds of radiant light shine brilliantly, and terrace upon terrace rises high into the heavens.”

It is also said: The Primordial Heavenly Sovereign, a revered deity in Daoism, and the Primordial Lady of the Southern Pole ascended the jade terrace in the empyrean. They ordered the Five Venerable Perfected Ones, the high perfected beings of the five directions, and the Left Official of the Immortal Capital to open the luxuriant archive and the brocade cloud pouch, and take out The Way of Transformation and Release of Form in Seventy-Four Methods of Highest Clarity and The Scripture of the Three Origins to transmit to you.

The Upper Scroll of the Scripture of Flying and Soaring says: The Most High Scripture of Flying and Soaring is stored in the Sevenfold-Purple Terrace of the Upper Palace of Jade Clarity.

It also says: Riding a carriage drawn by horses on the Mysterious Feather Terrace, one flies to the place of the Nine Origins. The cavern’s numinous depths are profound; the net of clouds bears people aloft into the sky. Below, practitioners of the Way look up and summon their immortal companions of Jade Dawn.

It also says: Jade Empyrean shines over the northern realm of feathers, while emerald hues in the jade forest veil the mountain’s bend. A Ninefold Numinous Terrace arises in the empty sky, its radiant essence glowing and illuminating the Great Rosy Clouds.

It also says: If someone’s name is recorded on the Mysterious Name Terrace of Red, they should learn the secret name of the Lord of Dawn who dwells in the north, and thereby fly through the empyrean.

The Scripture of the Seven Turns and Seven Transformations of the Divine Continent says: The Lord of Purple Dawn journeys south to the land of Vermilion Tomb, the Great Elixir, and the Ultimate Flames of Flowing Fire. There stand the Sun’s Jade Palace and the Jade Terrace of the Nine Emperors.

It also says: The Way of the Seven Turns of the August Sovereign is secretly stored in the Purple Void Origin Terrace, in the form of red bamboo slips and purple scriptures.

It also says: The Seven Turns of the August Sovereign.

The Upper Scripture of Jade Pendants and Golden Danglers says: The luxuriant archive is stored in the Scripture Terrace of Great Simplicity.

It also says: The Perfected Ones ascend to the jade terrace in the empyrean and observe ritual purification and contemplative cultivation for three months.

It also says: The Mysterious Treasure Chapter is in the Great Empyrean. Its pure, clear light shines brightly, illuminating the terrace of the Three Luminaries.

The Exalted Book of the Great Empyrean says: The Eighth Brahma Heaven, Kamayi, is governed by a king who dwells on the Purple Jade Terrace.

It also says: Holding the hem of the robe of the Jade Radiance Terrace, one rests in Phoenix City. The Lady Qing of the Left Palace of the Great Mysterious Capital.

The Clear Rules of the Four Poles says: The Jade Lord of the Red Emperor, surnamed Wang and named Jingdu, governs the Terrace of Vermilion Yang in the south and commands Phoenix City of the Southern Mountain. The Lady Qing of the Left Palace of the Great Mysterious Capital.

The Treatise on the Clear Regulations of the Four Poles says: “The Jade Lord of the Red Emperor’s Office is surnamed Wang and named Jingdu. He lives on the Terrace of Vermilion Yang in the south and commands the immortal officials of Mount Huo in the Southern Marchmount.”

It also says: “The Precious Scripture of the Five Elders in the Jade Register of the Female One and the Purple Writings of Lingbao are secretly stored in the Palace of Great Abundance above the Nine Heavens, also known as the Numinous Terrace of Great Mystery.”

It also says: “The Scripture of the Seven Turns and Seven Transformations of the Divine Continent, Dancing in Heaven is secretly stored on the Terrace of the Primordial Foundation in the Purple Heaven.”

The Inner Biography of Lady Wei of Mount Heng says: “South of Red Ridge there is a Terrace of Hidden Origin. Lady Wei, an immortal woman in Daoist legend, attained the Dao there.”

It also says: “Lady Wei once traveled and feasted at the Terrace of Fusang, and had overall charge of the registers of immortals.” Many scriptures also mention terraces called “Great Abundance”; they are not listed here one by one.

Section on Jade Chambers

The Inner Biography of Lord Wang, the Perfected of Clear Emptiness says: “The Perfected of Clear Emptiness was surnamed Wang, named Bao, and styled Zideng. He lived in the Chamber of Still Seclusion, where he concealed his form and observed quiet purification.”

The Lower Volume of the Jade Characters of the Inner Sounds says: “The Inner Sounds were sealed away in a stone coffer in the Grotto Chamber of the Southern River.” Some versions of the scripture write “large stone” instead of “coffer.”

Thus the Five Talismans says that the numinous writings of the Nine Heavens remain sealed away in a stone coffer.

It also says: “The numinous writings of the Nine Heavens and the true treasures of the Three Heavens were compiled by Yu the Great into the Lingbao writings. One copy was stored in a stone coffer, and the other in a deep, secluded grotto chamber.”

The Scripture of the Eight Gates of the Dark Mother says that the Three Primordial Ladies of the Threefold Essence, goddesses in Daoist tradition, dwell in the Jade Chamber of Scattered Blossoms.

The First Chapter of the Scripture of Original Aspects says: “Those who transcend and ascend into the Supreme Dao dwell in chambers of purity and everlasting joy.”

The Scripture of the Three Primordials and the True One says: “The Chamber of Luminous Clouds is where the Youth of the Eastern Sea received the scripture. It is on Mount Donghua at Fangzhu, in the Upper Clarity realm.”

The Scripture of the Perfected Revelations says: “The Palace of Great Abundance is where Sima Jizhu lived in seclusion.”

Another account says that the place where the youth of the Eastern Sea received the scriptures and teachings was called “Quiet Seclusion.” It was located on Mount Fangzhu Donghua in the Shangqing Realm.

The Scripture of the Perfected (Zhengao Jing) says that the Great You Palace was where Sima Jizhu lived in seclusion.

It also says that the “Chamber of Quiet Seclusion” was where Juanzi practiced in stillness.

The Chamber of Jade Radiance contains the Writings of the Vermilion Landscape in Jade.

In the Purple Hall and Golden Chamber dwells the Perfected One of the Inscribed Stone.

The Shangqing Scripture says that the Chamber of Lofty Crags is where the Dao Lord Jade Morning resides.

The Vermilion Canopy and Green Chamber is where the Perfected One of Great Origin resides.

The Scripture of Original Forms (Benxiang Jing) says that the Chamber of Seven Treasures is where the Heavenly Worthy of Quietude and Age teaches the Dao.

It also says that the Jade Chamber of Mysterious Nourishment is where the Heavenly Worthy of Quietude and Age taught the Dao to Niganta.

The Heavenly Worthy once taught the Scripture of the Great Cavern of Truth in the Chamber of Vermilion Yang in the Kingdom of Red Radiance.

It also says that the Heavenly Worthy traveled through the Kingdom of Jade Law and Radiance to its Chamber of Five-Colored Jade. Seated on a high dais formed by a Lion’s Treasure Couch and a Phoenix Desk of Singing Jade, the Heavenly Worthy proclaimed Daoism and saved all beings.

It also says: “Now I hear that my master is proclaiming Daoism in this Chamber of Seven Treasures and Purple.”

The Upper Scroll of the Supreme Truth Code (Taizhen ke shang) says that the Chamber of Swallow Immortals is where the Celestial Master (Tianshi) transforms and teaches all beings.

The Jade Morning Mirror (Yuchen Mingjing) records that Daoism was proclaimed and all beings saved upon the Jade Throne of Great Mystery.

It also says: “Now I hear that my master is proclaiming Daoism in this Chamber of Seven Treasures and Purple.”

The Upper Scroll of the Supreme Truth Code (Taizhen ke shang) says that the Chamber of Swallow Immortals is where the Celestial Master transforms and teaches all beings.

The Jade Morning Mirror records that the Golden Flower Chamber of Jade Morning in Great Mystery is where the Three Primordial Ladies of the Three Purities reside.

The Hidden Words of Lingbao (Lingbao yinyu) says there is a Chamber of the Yellow House, a mountain dug out by the many dragons.

The Lower Scroll of the Scripture of Jade Instructions (Yujue jing xia) says that in a secluded bend of Mount Vermilion Huo in the Southern Garden stands a Chamber of the Three Primordials, sealed and inscribed with a jade marker.

The Scripture of the Three Primordials and the True One (Sanyuan zhenyi jing) says that the Chamber of Mysterious Essence is where the Three Venerable Lords of the One—three divine beings within the human body—dwell.

The Jing of the Great Cavern says: “There is a chamber of exalted radiance. Within it, blue cloudlike Qi arises naturally; this is called ‘the smoke of returning fragrance.’ Even when the wind blows against it, the fragrance travels three thousand li, reaching all the way to the Purple Palace, the celestial palace.”

It also says: “The Great Lord of the Jade Dawn and the Great Dao (Yuchen Dadaojun), a revered Daoist deity, loosened his robe and sash in the Chamber of Jade Radiance.”

The Jade Instructions of the Great Cavern says: “The Three Primordial Ladies, goddesses who govern the Three Primordials, entered the Chamber of Flowing Radiance.”

The Lower Text of the Great Cavern Scripture says: “The scriptures of the Primordial Lord Huanglao are sealed away in the Chamber of Dark Clouds and Feathers.”

The Scripture of Original Forms says: “The Celestial Worthy preached the Great Cavern Scripture of Truth in the Chamber of Vermilion Yang, in the land of Scarlet Luminosity.”

The Inner Account of Emperor Wu of the Han says: “The mound of Fangzhang is the Chamber for Ordering Life, the place where one cultivates body and mind and regulates nature and life.”

The Record of the Ten Continents says: “On Canghai Island there is a chamber of piled stone, containing many kinds of stone, including rare treasures resembling eight kinds of stone, as well as brainstone and cassia blossoms. The island also has a palace chamber of purple stone, where the Nine Elders’ Immortal Capital conducts its affairs.”

The Declarations of the Perfected says: “After cultivating the Dao, Zhang Lizheng and Zhi Mingqi of Mount Heng ascended through the empty skies. They now dwell in the Chamber of Whirling Winds at Fangzhu and rank among the High Immortals.”

The Precious Scripture of the Five Elders says: “Their fame resounds in the Chamber of the Five Elders, and their spirits ascend above the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing).”

A commentary on the Jing of the Great Cavern says: “Xiuhua Mountain is what the Perfected of Taiji call the Round and Radiant Cinnabar Chamber. It is also the dwelling place of the Lords Perfected of the Five Spirits.”

The commentary on the Jing of the Great Cavern also says: “The Lord of the Blue Lad ascended Cloud-Wave Mountain and entered the Chamber of Eastern Florescence.”

It also says: “The Lord of Blue Essence ascended Purple-Void Mountain and manifested within the Jade Chamber.”

The Record of the Ten Continents says: “Mount Kunlun has a Chamber of Jade Blossoms, where the Queen Mother of the West resides.”

The Dongzhen Jing says: The Jade Chamber is a place where Daoist methods are stored, including the “Plain Sayings of the Three Nines,” the “Mysterious Elixir’s Supreme Transformation,” and the “Three Perfected Ones’ Cavernous Origin.”

It also says: The gods of the High and Supreme stored the Jade Register of the Three Origins and the Scripture of the Three Origins’ Dissemination in the Jade Chamber. The Curved Chamber is where the Heavenly Emperor Lord of Taiwei secretly stored writings on the Nine Elixirs and the Supreme Immortals. The Five Elders of the Origin Beginning also secretly stored the five chapters of the Perfected Writings there.

The Clear Ordinances of the Four Extremes says: In the Western Chamber of Guishan and the Southern Cavern of Wangwu, the celestial scriptures are complete in every respect.

The fifth scroll of the Ten Chapters on the Five Thousand Words Scripture says: In the mysterious depths of the Dark Canopy dwell supreme sages and perfected beings.

The Scripture of Shangqing Wisdom says: The Observatorium of the Numinous Dawn and the Chamber of Layered Mounds are where the Lord of the Great Dao, Most High, resides in leisure.

The Correct Method of the Three Heavens of Shangqing says: In the Chamber of the Dark Sun are sealed the talismanic writings from the Correct Method of the Three Heavens of the Origin Beginning, used to eliminate and subdue the Six Heavens.

The Scripture of the Three Origins’ True Unity says: The Chamber of the Jade Firmament stores the method of the Three Perfected Ones’ Primal Unity. In the Chamber of the Dark Sun are sealed the talismanic writings from the Correct Method of the Three Heavens of the Origin Beginning, used to eliminate and subdue the Six Heavens.

It also says: The Yellow Portal, the Violet Gate, and the Chamber of Dark Essence are places where the Three-One Venerable Lords—the honored spirits within the human body who correspond to the Dao of Three-One—often dwell.

The Jade Emperor’s Seven Sages: Mysterious Record says: The Chamber of Kunlun is the source of the Northern Cavern. It can turn back the nine heavens above, and within it are stored celestial documents such as white slips and blue registers.

The Scripture of the Three Ways’ Orderly Practice says: In the Chamber of the Southern Cavern, Lord Wang sealed away the scriptures of the Three Ways.

The Scripture of Golden Slips and Jade Characters says: The Chamber of Fangzhu is where the Lord of Supreme Primordial Simplicity resides.

The Great Cavern Jade Scripture also says: There is also a Chamber of Donghua. The Blue Youth rides a jade-carved carriage, commands the Qi of Yuanshu, and enters this chamber.

It also says: The Chamber of the Great Elder is located in the Heaven of Shangqing. The Lord of the Eight Sovereigns and Elders rides a carriage of vast jade-like radiance into it.

On Mount Liugang there is a Chamber of Radiant Splendor, where the Queen Mother of the West governs.

The Primordial Register of Guishan says: The Chamber of Jade Florescence is the Elixir.

Another record says: The Chamber of the Great Elder is located in the Upper Clarity Heaven, the high celestial realm described in Daoism. The Eight Sovereign Lords rode the Broad Lang carriage into this chamber.

Another record says: On Mount Liugang stands the Chamber of Radiant Scenery, where the Queen Mother of the West, a revered Daoist goddess, lives and rules.

The Register of the Origin of Turtle Mountain says: In the Chamber of Jade Radiance are kept the Jade Writings of Cinnabar Scenery.

The Fifth Scripture of Divine Incantations says: In the Chamber of Nine Convergences, the Most High sat upright in contemplation, asking which realms were beset by hardship and which enjoyed good fortune; whether the cosmic cycle was near its end or still far off; and where the many beings, coming and going, would ultimately arrive.

The Hidden Instructions for Ascending to the True says: In the Chamber of Yin, north of Mount Laosheng in the Eastern Sea, lived the Huolin immortal Han Zhong. There he composed methods for consuming and taking elixirs in pursuit of cultivation.

The seventh fascicle of the Declarations of the Perfected records the immortal Guo Sichao singing: “The August Sovereign rides the Dragon-Chariot of Qi, then turns toward the Chamber of Northern Splendor.” Guo Sichao once served as the Canopy Bearer in the Jade Terrace, an office in the celestial realm; hence the song says that he rides the Dragon-Chariot of Qi.

Another record says: Beneath Mount Fangyu is a cavern chamber called the Hall of the Source of Fang, where recluses live.

The middle scroll of the Great Cavern Scripture, in “Jade Pure Jade Incantations,” says: “Thereupon, he withdrew into the Upper Clarity Chamber.” The Emperor Yuming once lived there.

Another record says: “He untied his sash in the Chamber of Jade Reflections, where Chengren dwells.”

The middle scroll of the Great Cavern Scripture, in “Jade Pure Jade Incantations,” says: “Thereupon, he withdrew into the Upper Clarity Chamber.” The Emperor Yuming once lived there.

Another record says: “He untied his sash in the Chamber of Jade Reflections, rode on plainness, and entered Siming.”

Another record says: “Receiving blessings in the Chamber of Eastern Rosy Clouds, he returned to the source of the embryo and was refined through Vermilion Fire.”

Another record says: “He rested for a long time atop the Feathered Terrace, preserving his Original Spirit in the Chamber of the Five Elders.”

Another record says: “He merged completely with the chamber of Emperor One; the Five Elders transformed into childlike forms.”

Another record says: “He ascended to pay court in the chamber of Emperor One, and untied his sash on the steps of August One.”

Another record says: “Returning to the source of the embryo, he entered the Great Vermilion Chamber and once more attained life within the grotto.”

The True Scripture of the Great Cavern says: In the Silent Grotto of Yang Mountain is the Chamber of the Three Jade Maidens of Primordial Emptiness, where Baicheng Zhigao lived in seclusion and cultivated the Way.

Another record says: “In every age, he loosened his bonds and knots, ascending to the Chamber of the Sovereign, the Chamber of Human Preservation and Whirling Wind.”

Another record says: The Qi of the Five Emperors is stored in the Chamber of the Yin Ultimate.

The Hidden Instructions of the Flying Dragon says: The Northern Pole Chamber of the True Three Jade Maidens is where Baicheng Zhigao lived in seclusion and cultivated the Way.

The scripture also says that those who, generation after generation, resolve grudges and enmity can ascend to the palace where the emperors dwell and become members of the Chamber of the People Who Embrace the Whirlwind.

It also says that the Qi of the Five Emperors is not in the Chamber of the Yin Pole.

The Hidden Instructions of the Flying Dragon says that the True Lord of the North Pole dwells in the Chamber of Vast Light at the North Pole.

It also says that the Scripture of Flying and Soaring is sealed away in the Chamber of the Golden Terrace on Mount Emei.

The Outline of the Chapter on the Female One of the Great Cavern says that the Lords of the Three Origins dwell in the Chamber of Primordial Emptiness.

The Scripture of the Seventy-Four Transformations of the Highest Clarity says that the Perfected of the South Pole stored the scriptures of Highest Clarity in the Ninefold Cavern Chamber of the Cloud Palace of Cinnabar Radiance on the Jade Terrace. Within the chamber is a naturally arising light, clear and bright throughout.

The Scripture of Flying and Soaring says that the Hidden Writings of the Supreme One’s Everlasting Flight and Transformation in Emptiness are secretly stored in the Chamber of the Nine Caverns.

The Scripture of Flying and Soaring and the Record of Ascending to the Profound Mystery say that the Chamber of the Golden Terrace on Mount Emei is the repository of the Feathered Scripture of Flying Mystery. Within the chamber is a naturally arising light, clear and bright throughout.

The Scripture of Flying and Soaring says that the Hidden Writings of the Supreme One’s Everlasting Flight and Transformation in Emptiness are secretly stored in the Chamber of the Nine Caverns.

The Scripture of Flying and Soaring and the Record of Ascending to the Profound Mystery say that the Feathered Scripture of Flying Mystery is secretly stored within the Chamber of the Golden Terrace on Mount Emei.

Chapter Twelve of the Scripture of the Cavern Spirit says that the Chamber of Measured Vast Rosy Clouds stands level with the Court of the Nine Heavens.

The Talisman of the Five Victories says that talismans and registers of the East are secretly stored in the Tower of Dark Jade and Green Forest, and the Chamber of Lofty Mounds and Orchid Jade.

Chapter Eight of the Scripture of Original Forms says that in the Eastern Kingdom of Fuli there is a Chamber of Nine Unions. The Celestial Worthy once ascended there and burned away his bodily form.

Chapter Eighteen of the Scripture of Original Forms says that within the Chamber of the Six Harmonies of the Dark Terrace, a certain power arises and moves of its own accord.

It also says that the Chamber of Transforming Purple Qi cannot be seen with the eyes or entered.

It also says that Shenhong Hengxi Yue resides in the Chamber of Seven Treasures and Purple Gold.

The Twentieth Scripture says that the king of the Kingdom of Atuojia, beyond the South Sea, had a daughter named Haoqiu. After she became an immortal and departed, the king built the Terrace for Gathering Spirits where she had once lived. He constructed a Palace of Immortals, a Hall of the Three Masters, and a Chamber for Expounding Writings, in order to save people far and wide. A thousand people lived there.

The First Scripture says: The immortal Fan Zezi taught six hundred fascicles of the Middle Grade of Great Clarity in the Su Tai Chamber, on Mount Fuluo in the kingdom of Xina.

The Court Ritual of the Three Sovereigns says: The Court of Vast Cold stretches out in tier upon tier; the Yanshan Chamber is distant and expansive.

The First Scripture of the Sea and Sky says: A thousand people are within it.

The First Scripture says: The immortal Fan Zezi taught six hundred fascicles of the Middle Grade of Great Clarity in the Su Tai Chamber, on Mount Fuluo in the kingdom of Xina.

The Court Ritual of the Three Sovereigns says: The Court of Vast Cold stretches out in tier upon tier; the Yanshan Chamber is distant and expansive.

The First Scripture of the Sea and Sky says: Practicing contemplation of the “three aspects” and understanding the “four intentions” means one has entered the Chamber of Wisdom.

The First Scripture of the Dao Scripture of the Most High, Lord of the Void Emperor, says: A chamber belonging to the Bright Feather Emperor later became concealed within the Shangqing Chamber, a dwelling in the Shangqing realm.

The Lower Section of the Jade Characters of Inner Sounds says: In the Chamber of the Yellow House, where the celestial guest of Zongpiao Heaven resides, there is also a place called the Hall of the Jade Guest. The Lord of the Dao, True Dawn, governs there.

The Thirty-Nine Chapters of the Great Cavern Jade Scripture says: In the Chamber of Jade Forms, the Lord of the Dao loosened his sash and rode the “Eight Su, Eight,” arriving at the Gate of the Four Lights. The Gate of the Four Lights is the southern gate of the Jade Emperor of Shangqing.

It also says: The Transformed Jade Chamber is the place where the Lord of Green Essence travels and dwells.

It also says: Amid the Great Rosy Clouds of the Heaven of Great Void stands the Chamber of Pengxu. It is formed by the congealing of white Qi, and its halls are built from nine layers of cloud. Purple vapors surround it in tier upon tier, and wondrous radiance gathers there; hence it is called the Chamber of Pengxu. It is where the Primal Lady of Great Void resides.

It also says: Amid the Great Rosy Clouds stands the Chamber of Pengxu. It is formed by the congealing of white Qi, and its halls are built from nine layers of cloud. Purple vapors surround it in tier upon tier, and wondrous radiance gathers there; hence it is called the Chamber of Pengxu. It is where the Primal Lady of Great Void resides.

It also says: The Lord of the Green Youth ascended Cloud-Wave Mountain, the site of the Chamber of Donghua.

The Nine Chapters of the Eight Su Yanghe say: In stillness, the Chamber of the Nine Spirits lies deep and hidden; in motion, one moves freely through the transformations of the two modes.

The Scripture of the Three Sovereigns says: Once you have entered the Empty Cavern Chamber—the clear, void, and mysterious realm of Daoism—why worry that you will fail to attain the Dao?

The Scripture on Raising the Corpse and Delivering the Dead says: The Hall Within the Mysterious is boundless; the Chamber of the Unsurpassed is deep, serene, and remote.

The Sanyuan Pinjie says that documents recording sins and blessings are sealed away in the Nine Springs Grotto.

It also says that documents recording merits and faults are sealed away in the Nine Rivers Grotto, while documents recording the karmic consequences of sins and blessings are sealed away in the Hot Springs Grotto.

Volume Four of the Benji Jing says, “They guide us into the place where the wall of the Law stands—that is, the Chamber of Wuwei (non-action).” The scriptures mention many different kinds of “chambers,” which will not all be listed here.

The Sacred Temples of the Dwellings

Volume One of the Benxiang Jing says, “Immortal temple” means a hall where immortals dwell.

Volume Twenty-One of the Benxiang Jing says that the King of Donghua built temples to honor the Seven Powers of the immortals, where women could live and cultivate the Dao. The temples were modeled on the Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions, and their palaces and chambers had twenty-eight gates.

The Dajie Jing says that the Perfected One of the Mysterious Register of the North once passed by a dwelling above the Mysterious Valley.

It also says that in the vast dwelling of the demon Mara, the assembled Perfected Ones traveled between the Three Realms.

It further says that the High Sovereign of the Upper Minister dwells in the Mansion Lunar Lodge, which has twenty-eight palace gates; beneath the mansion is a bathing pool.

The section “On the Bells and Drums in the Administrative Centers of the Taizhen Code” says that every registered administrative center keeps scriptures in storage; such a place is called a “Dao Gate.” A place where the Orthodox Law is established, the people are taught, and the teachings are put into practice is also called a “Dao Gate.” On the scripture platform at the front left of the administrative center’s building hang a golden bell and a jade chime, used in rituals.

Volume Four of the Zhengao Zhenming records Lady Ziswei chanting: “Brush the cloudy dust from my sleeves and enter the dwelling in the cloud forest; bind up the hair in a topknot and return to the state of an infant. I lodge serenely where there is no fixed abode—how could thoughts of right and wrong, gain and loss, weigh on my heart?”

The Zhuangzi, in its Miscellaneous Chapters, says, “A spacious and tranquil mind reveals the brightness bestowed by Heaven.”

The Zhuangzi, in its Inner Chapters, says, “Take the Ultimate Oneness as the dwelling of body and mind, and meet within the realm of what is inevitable.”

Volume Four of the Zhengao also records Lady Youying chanting: “Wind circles the empty chamber; wondrous sounds rise in measured rhythm. Hand in hand with the Weaver Girl, we dance, our robes joined, and gather in the courtyard of the bottle gourd.” Wang Zongzhen, the Perfected One of the Western City, chanted: “The wheel … yet my heart still suffers from hesitation.”

The poem of Perfected One Taiyuan says, “Winds from all eight directions circle the blue-green firmament; layer upon layer of mist suddenly disperses.”

In the piece “Dancing with the Weaver Girl, Sleeves Joined in the Courtyard of the Gourd,” Perfected One Wang Zongzhen of the Western Citadel sings, “The wheel … yet in my heart, sorrow and doubt remain.” The meaning from the word “wheel” onward is unclear, so it can only be understood from the text as it has been preserved.

The second volume of the Declarations of the Perfected says, “At night, a feast is held beneath the deep firmament; at dawn, the radiance of the full moon is gathered.”

In the seventh volume of the Declarations of the Perfected, the immortal Guo Sicha sings, “Then I came to the Heavenly Palace of Taiwei and ladled out the immortal nectar of the Golden Pear. I roam freely beyond the mysterious steps, attached neither to life nor to death.”

The Scripture of the Numinous Writ says, “In the red mansion, the Vermilion Youth shines with radiance and will not wither through ten thousand kalpas.”

The eighth volume of the Declarations of the Perfected says, “When ordinary people sleep indoors, they should keep their rooms clean. Cleanliness allows them to receive numinous Qi; a lack of cleanliness invites stale Qi. Stale Qi unsettles a dwelling, making it difficult for one’s hopes to be fulfilled and one’s undertakings to succeed. The human body is the same: one should bathe regularly and keep clean. Otherwise, the same principle applies.”

The ninth volume of the Declarations of the Perfected records a poem by the immortal Ding Weining: “The body seems to dwell beneath the firmament of the northern frontier; three divine beings reside above the Nine Heavens.”

The text also gives three meanings for the word “chamber”: a thatched hut, a house whose eaves catch abundant rainwater, and a small room enclosed on all sides by walls.

In the tenth volume of the Declarations of the Perfected, Lady Zhonghou instructs, “Plant bamboo in the northern building.”

The middle volume of the Scripture of the Great Cavern says, “From a place of deep stillness arises the Emperor’s Heavenly Palace; take along this person who dwells in the immortal realm.”

The Perfect Scripture of the Great Cavern also records the three kinds of dwelling mentioned earlier: a thatched hut, a house whose eaves catch abundant rainwater, and a small room enclosed on all sides by walls.

In the tenth volume of the Declarations of the Perfected, Lady Zhonghou instructs that bamboo be planted in the northern building.

The middle volume of the Scripture of the Great Cavern says that the Emperor’s Heavenly Palace arises from a place of deep stillness, and that the person in the immortal realm travels alongside.

The Perfect Scripture of the Great Cavern says, “Winds from all eight directions pass over the secluded firmament; deep shadows stretch across the blue-green fields.”

The scripture also says, “Unfasten your robe and come to the Jade Emperor’s Heavenly Palace, where you will meet the spirits of luminous truth.”

The Record of Immortals in the Golden Book says, “May I spread my wings and ascend to immortality, while the Vermilion Spirit dwells in peace within the Crimson Mansion.”

The Scripture of Purple Measure and Flaming Radiance says, “Purple clouds encircle the winding buildings; red light surrounds the ornamented carriage.”

It also says, “The sky is my dwelling, and the earth my bed. The Five Sacred Peaks and their rivers are my bridges; the mysterious primordial Qi of the Northern Dipper is my clothing.”

The Jing of the Inner Truth and Golden Chapters says, “You should regularly recite the Formula of the Pure Plain Words in a quiet dwelling. In this way, summon and subdue the spirit of the Source Marsh, which brings calamity.”

The Jing of the Seventy-Four Transformations of the Shangqing says, “In the mysterious, boundless void are palaces of gold and halls of jade. The Qi of the Three Origins begins to move, and the Six Qi then spread throughout.” Here, “Three Origins” and “Six Qi” refer to Daoist accounts of how the primordial Qi of Heaven and Earth moves.

The Jing of the Inner Truth and Golden Chapters also says, “You should regularly recite the Formula of the Pure Plain Words in a quiet dwelling. In this way, summon and subdue the spirit of the Source Marsh, which brings calamity.”

The Jing of the Seventy-Four Transformations of the Shangqing also says, “In the mysterious, boundless void are palaces of gold and halls of jade. The Qi of the Three Origins begins to move, and the Six Qi then spread throughout.”

The preface to the upper scroll of the Jing of Flying and Soaring says, “When the Nine Dawn spirits of the Shangqing Immortal Realm do not descend to the wondrous abode, the Lady delights upon her sleeping mat.”

The Jing of the Celestial Dance of Seven Turns and Seven Transformations in the Divine Continent says, “Abandon the bounds of the dusty world, screen out the cycles of the void, and leave your dwelling; then you will pass freely through the netherworld.”

It also says, “With wondrous music, summon the wind of the Nine Dawn spirits; transcend the dusty world and ascend to the dwelling of the Immortal Lord.”

The Inner Account of Lord Pei says, “The Great Emperor Lord of the High Sovereign ascended to the numinous Shangqing abode of Guanghan to discuss whether practitioners of the Dao were diligent or slack.”

The Jing of the Pure Land of the Primordial Yang Youth says, “The walls of Xiuduotong City are built entirely of crystal, and its beams and pillars entirely of pure gold. Lotus flowers cover its tiers of pavilions; its rafters are coral, its purlins silver, and its brackets and supports gold.”

The Inner Text of Hidden Origins says, “The Lord of the Blue Youth invites the assembled emperors to his winding, secluded halls, where he teaches precious secrets and mysterious scriptures.”

The Shangqing Petition Text says, “Winds from the eight directions rise from the heights, while deep clouds encircle the green carriage.”

The Jing of Original Conduct says, “The Abode of the Cinnabar Mound is where the divine person transmitted the eight-character true text of Weiyin.”

The Numinous Chapters of the Empty Cavern says, “On Jade Mound stands a splendid palace of jade, an abode governing life and death, fortune and virtue.”

The nineteenth chapter of the Scripture of Original Appearance says: In a kingdom in the south, the king built a sacred shrine to honor the immortals, and completed the buildings surrounding it.

The twentieth scripture says: Beyond the Southern Sea lay the kingdom of Tuosui Jia. The king had a daughter named Haoqiu. At the age of fifteen, she cultivated the Dao at the Spirit Terrace for Learning the Way of the Immortals and Summoning Souls. Later, she attained the Dao and became an immortal, ascending to the Jade Clarity Palace, a wondrously exalted realm described in Daoist teachings. The king then, at the site where she had become an immortal...