《太上三洞神咒》Vol. 1

The Golden Light Divine Incantation invokes the primordial power of the mysterious depths of Heaven and Earth, regarding it as the source of the Qi of all things. Through cultivation over countless kalpas, one may attain divine powers. In the Three Realms, the power embodied by this incantation is supreme. Its golden radiance envelops the practitioner: unseen by the naked eye and unheard by the ear, it nevertheless reaches throughout Heaven and Earth, protecting and nourishing all beings.

Repeatedly reciting this incantation brings light to the body. The deities of the Three Realms guard nearby; the Five Emperors come to welcome the practitioner, the gods pay homage, and even thunder obeys their command. Ghosts, demons, and malign forces are destroyed, while spirits lose their forms. The incantation declares that the body contains the might of thunderbolts, while the names of the thunder gods remain concealed.

The sequence of onomatopoeic characters and secret incantatory syllables consists of ritual sounds used in recitation; their specific meanings are not explained literally. At the end, the incantation says that insight and wisdom interpenetrate, and the Five Qi—the five kinds of vital energy that govern the workings of Heaven and Earth—rise and surge. Golden radiance appears swiftly, protecting the perfected practitioner on the Daoist path.

Chaos was vast and boundless, and the primordial Qi (vital energy), the fundamental force that forms heaven, earth, and all things, began to divide. The pure Qi, shining with golden light, was called Jade Clarity (Yu Qing). The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning established the forms of heaven and earth and was supreme among the natural powers. Blue and white light shone together, and thus the Shangqing realm was established. In the palace of the Seven Treasures dwells the Dao Lord Yuchen.

The three kinds of primordial Qi gathered and transformed, shining brightly to form Great Clarity (Taiqing). In a numinous hall wreathed in auspicious clouds dwells the Venerable Lord of the Five Spirits. The yellow Qi at the center gave birth to the Jade Emperor. The Lord of Heaven of the Six Waves and the Heavenly Lord of Brahma Qi dwell between the Cinnabar Clouds and Emerald Heavens, while the Ancestor of Thunder also displays divine power.

Within and beyond the Three Realms of Clarity are myriad sages and perfected beings. The thirty-two emperors, the Four Offices and their myriad spirits, and the Five Elders of the Five Directions all appear together. The sun and moon are at peace, their radiance shining in concert, and heaven and earth are thereby set apart. Clear Qi rises upward, while turbid Qi gathers below.

Wondrous transformations extend throughout the Eight Seas, the waters in all eight directions, with the Water Emperors and Stream Perfected Ones each fulfilling their duties. The Three Powers of heaven, earth, and humanity, the Four Images—the four fundamental directions and forces—and Yin-Yang unite and take form. The Nine Layers of Northern Feng, the tiers of the northern underworld, and the spirits of thunder and lightning have names that are concealed and left unspoken. The heavens hold secret sounds, and the Five Emperors watch over all living beings.

The Great One of the Ten Blessings sets the celestial pivot in motion and brings order to heaven and earth. Beneath the Azure Emperor of Central Mount, all things stand forth in profusion. The numinous lord is majestic and resplendent, endowed with the essence of four eyes. The incantatory sounds “li, heng, wa, li” bring the primordial perfected beings together. The Buddhist Emperor silently recites the spell, while the Dark and Mysterious One listens reverently. The jade characters of the Great Being realm shine forth, and thunder roars. The incantatory sounds “bo luo □ luo” voice a prayer for long life and enduring protection.

This is an invocation that summons the deities. By listing the names and incantatory sounds of heaven and earth, the various realms, and the many gods, it expresses the wish to govern heaven and earth, gather the spirits, and protect life so that it may endure.

The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun), a revered Daoist deity, is majestic and utterly true, supreme among the Five Thunders—the divine generals and thunder powers of thunder rites. The radiance of Taihua shines brightly, reaching the gateways of the eight directions. The Five Elders, deities of the five directions, issue their command, heard even in the most hidden and remote places. Above, it governs the Nine Heavens; in the middle, it subdues Feng Mountain, the underworld mountain of Daoist lore; below, it guards the rivers, seas, and twelve sources of water. The Eight Mighty Generals appear in fearsome splendor, bearing efficacious talismanic tablets and jade inscriptions. They can summon Dragon Gods to bring rain, draw in Qi, and gather clouds and mist. The sun, moon, and five planets—Venus, Jupiter, Mercury, Mars, and Saturn—also fall under the authority of its might and virtue.

The radiance of Taihua shines brightly, reaching the gateways of the eight directions. The Five Elders issue their command, heard even in the most hidden and remote places. Above, it governs the Nine Heavens; in the middle, it subdues Feng Mountain; below, it guards the rivers, seas, and twelve sources of water. The Eight Mighty Generals appear in fearsome splendor, bearing efficacious talismanic tablets and jade inscriptions. They can summon Dragon Gods to bring rain, draw in Qi, and gather clouds and mist.

The sun, moon, and five planets shine in harmony with the Seven Stars of the Northern Dipper. The Celestial Emperor’s command reaches the Great Mystery, the profound and distant realm. Its authority is proclaimed throughout the Three Realms, and none may delay. In the heavens and on earth, among rivers, lakes, seas, and mountains, all the spirits under the jurisdiction of Jade Truth, the great gods of the netherworld’s watery palaces, as well as the Immortal Kings and the great commanders of troops, set out in obedience to the order. The commanders carry banners; celestial soldiers clear the way ahead, while golden tigers race behind. Fierce beasts stand arrayed, guarding the gateways in all four directions. All who are called arrive at once; all who are summoned step forward immediately. Scarlet talismanic writs blaze with light, and the divine powers of wind and fire pass without interruption. The spirits who administer talismans and registers carry out their orders, while golden horses speed the commands along like post riders.

Thunder’s Great Might and Virtue Divine Incantation

Om, Hung, Hung. San tan na, Han nan yan, Qian yi she chi. These are syllables of the incantation, used chiefly in recitation to summon and invite. They raise the boundless might of the Fire and Thunder Bureau of the Nine Heavens and open the gateways in the four directions. All who are called arrive at once; all who are summoned step forward immediately. Scarlet talismanic writs blaze with light, and the divine powers of wind and fire pass without interruption. The spirits who administer talismans and registers carry out their orders, while golden horses speed the commands along like post riders.

Om, hung, hung! I command the spirits San Tanna, Han Nanyan, Qianyi, and the others to heed the order and summon the boundless, mighty spirit kings of the Nine Heavens Grand Fire and Thunder Bureau. The fire and thunder of the Nine Heavens include fire lightning, flying fire, sudden fire, flowing fire, Seven-Star fire, thunderbolt fire, and blazing thunder and flames. All are governed by the King of the Nine Heavens Grand Fire and Thunder.

The Fire and Thunder King rides a Kui dragon and commands flying tigers, lions, white zese, xiezhi, qilin, and countless divine beasts such as fire camels, fire elephants, fire horses, and fire eagles. A million divine troops, with bronze heads and iron faces, carry the command axes and tallies of the Five Emperors—symbols of divine authority and military power—as they patrol in every direction. When the imperial bell rings, demons, monsters, ghosts, and spirits are all struck with fear. The hidden spirits of celestial grottoes and blessed lands, mountains, and rivers also heed the order. Mountains collapse, trees sink into the earth, and valleys boil. What spirit would dare resist? All must submit and carry out the command.

The King of the Great-Mouthed Wind, the Fire Dragon, the Fire Horse, the Fire Man, and the Fire Woman descend from heaven; the fire of Bing and Ding—the celestial stems that represent the vital energy of fire—surges forth. The Fire Tiger spreads its might, and eight dragons race ahead. The Five Generals of the Celestial Capital roar with thunder, hurl sand and stones, uproot trees, and shift their roots. A wind chariot guards the left, while a fire chariot advances on the right. Their light shines through the Three Realms, transforming them into a vast scarlet fortress. The Bagua and the Dipper constellation are arrayed all around, their might covering the world as flames leap skyward. At the sight, ghosts, monsters, and spirits plunge ten thousand zhang beneath the earth and turn to ashes; ancient trees and wicked temples are buried forever and lost to memory. Carry out this command swiftly, by order of the Primordial Lady of Taiyi, a revered Daoist deity.

Incantation to the Small Mulang Spirit of Taiyi’s Three Mountains

The radiance of Qian Jing shines over the eastern Jade Pool. The covenant’s mighty emissary is named Green Lad. He casts fire toward the Kun and Zhen directions, ten thousand li away—the north and east in the Bagua—and rushes with fierce speed toward Dameng.

Mulang is the masculine spirit of Taiyi’s Three Mountains. Thunderclaps shatter the rocks and open the springs. In the gateways of the Kun, Zhen, and Xun directions, the Bright-Spirited Old Man appears. Four fierce horses gallop and wheel about as sudden fire charges forward.

Flowing Essence and Brilliant Radiance race toward Zhurong, the fire deity, while the giant spirit Taihua climbs into the clouds. Black banners rise through the sky, blotting out the sun and stirring up clouds and rain until the dark clouds gather thickly. Yebo shakes the peaks of Mount Kunlun; hidden spirits churn the sea, and Xuanming, the water deity, appears as well. Fengyi, the river god, drums up his power and calls out to summon the wind. Penglai and the Weak Water rise in response, joining together to complete the divine display of might.

The Dragon-Eagle Divine General is swift in form and first to subdue the fierce and malign. With red hair, huge wings, and blood-red eyes, he spits out poisonous vapor like thunder and lightning, directing the Five Dragons to move and stirring up rain vapor as clouds gather.

Ebo shakes the peaks of Mount Kunlun. Spirits churn the sea, displaying their power together with Xuanming. Feng Yi, the River God, stirs the winds and calls them with a long cry, bringing wind and rain even to Penglai and the region of the Weakwater.

Once again, the Dragon-Eagle Divine General is first to subdue the fierce and malign. Red-haired, huge-winged, and red-eyed, he spits out thunder and lightning and directs the Five Dragons. Clouds gather densely above the Four Seas, and dark skies cover the heavens.

At a single command, the Four Seas grow dim and misty. Wherever the ranks of rain pass, rivers swell and surge. Golden Light Flowing Essence cuts down drought demons such as the Ba, while the Netherworld Spirit of Dongyang summons the Long Rain God, a deity who governs thunder and rain.

The Jade Thunder Bright Master transforms on Mount Kongtong, while the Emptiness Sovereign of Taihua sweeps away demons and evil spirits. The Dark Sovereign of the Many Ridges commands the vanguard, and the Spirit of the Shrine Spring freely wields the power of mirage vapor, shaking the Lord of Heaven.

The Sudden Fire Edict turns the vault of heaven, lashes demons and specters, and drives away snakes and insects. The spirits Goulou, Jili, and Yanhe display their might; Dengseng and Zeze, too, obey the command.

The Four Songs of the Knowing Maid are offered with loyal hearts, helping me complete the great work of rescuing the land from drought. Red chickens and purple geese arrive in endless numbers, seize the wicked spirits that wreak havoc, and escort them to Beifeng, the northern underworld.

By command, let the Primordial Lady of Purple Emptiness descend and take them into custody. Haste, in obedience to the command of the Fire-Bell Marshal!

Incantation of the Great Mulang Spirit

The essence of Heaven’s Qi circulates and shines east of the Jade Pool. The sacred bearer of the Alliance’s authority is named Qing Tong. By command, let the Primordial Lady of Purple Emptiness descend and take them into custody. Haste, in obedience to the command of the Fire-Bell Marshal!

Incantation of the Great Mulang Spirit

The essence of Heaven’s Qi circulates and shines east of the Jade Pool. The sacred bearer of the Alliance’s authority is named Qing Tong. Cast the flames, fly ten thousand miles, and reach the Kan and Zhen palaces, which symbolize directions and the movements of Heaven and Earth’s Qi. The valiant cavalry sets out swiftly and arrives at Taimeng.

Bore through primordial chaos and open a passage through Mount Kongtong. Green waves uphold the vault of heaven and set Gengrong in motion. A secret decree from Qinghua commands the deity in charge of conferring talismans and registers to oversee the talismanic mandates and deliver them to the imperial palace.

Mulang Taiyi is the outstanding hero among the Three Mountains. He carries out the subtle mysteries of the Dao with utmost reverence. He swiftly sets thunder in motion and awakens the hidden Dragon Spirits; thunderbolts split the mountain rocks and open the springs.

The Kun position opens into the Xun gate, and the Qi of Bright Spirit gathers. Flowing crystal light grows dense and radiant, surging toward Zhurong. Fierce horses spread out in all four directions as the Sudden Fire Divine General rushes forth. A colossal chariot climbs Mount Taihua and rises into the clouds.

Golden hammers and jade iron gleam with fire, and the fire bow unleashes its might. The thunderous handle drum booms and rattles. The Great Sage of the Celestial Net descends and obeys the true command. The radiance of the Divine Empyrean talismanic mandate appears, and its numinous power reaches in all directions.

Quaking with thunder, the forces of evil are swept away without a trace. Now, under orders, I summon the Thunder Lords. Blazing fires rise in every direction, and banners descend from the bright sky, fluttering in the air.

The Asuras return to Sangyong the next day, accompanied by Tian Yuanyong, envoy of Pili. The Kun fish flicks its tail as if touching the edge of the sky; the Flame Emperor steams up clouds and rain, gathering the clouds into thick masses.

In an instant, black vapors surge from the northern Kan position. The Void Star blazes brightly, shining into people’s eyes. Yebo shakes the peaks of Kunlun, commands thunder and lightning, and rides forward on a fire dragon.

Flying sand and rolling stones are flung into the air. Spirits of the netherworld churn the sea and appear together with Xuanming. Fengyi stirs up the wind and calls out loudly for it; the four singers of Shinv sound their horns as the vanguard.

Goulou Jili drives the Azure Dragon, while Dingxin Dixi holds the Imperial Bell. The envoy of Mengwei brings a presence as fearsome as frost; the Jade Radiance Youth commands thunder and lightning and rides forward on a fire dragon.

Flying sand and rolling stones are flung into the air. Spirits of the netherworld churn the sea and appear together with Xuanming. Fengyi stirs up the wind and calls out loudly for it; the four singers of Shinv sound their horns as the vanguard.

Goulou Jili drives the Azure Dragon, while Dingxin Dixi holds the Imperial Bell. The envoy of Mengwei brings a presence as fearsome as frost; the Jade Radiance Youth, Changchun, pounds the pestle.

Ya□ fumes with rage, his breath shaking the vault of heaven; Chunmingqi reduces the calamity of burning poisonous insects. Huangli wields a sword to behead the Chi□, while Hanchen, acting under orders, inspects your form.

Penglai and the Weakwater bring their power into being, while the immortal retinue of Yingzhou circles with a ringing sound. The Jade Bureau issues its command, and none may slacken; officials of every office hold aloft the dispatch, and all obey.

Heavenly thunder rumbles like a blow against a golden bell. Divine thunder roars in force, shattering all that conceals. Dragon thunder shakes the sky, and heavenly fire glows red; water thunder raises huge waves, filling the sea.

The Shrine Commandant strikes down the gathered demons, while the spirit of Liyang destroys the drought demon. Yujia draws his bow and shoots, sweeping away rainbow-like evil vapors; Liuyi moves with swift urgency, hastening to repel the wicked.

A spirit with red hair, enormous wings, and blazing eyes breathes out thunder and lightning. Divine thunder roars in force, shattering all that conceals. Dragon thunder shakes the sky, and heavenly fire glows red; water thunder raises huge waves, filling the sea.

The Shrine Commandant strikes down the gathered demons, while the spirit of Liyang destroys the drought demon. Yujia draws his bow and shoots, sweeping away rainbow-like evil vapors; Liuyi moves with swift urgency, hastening to repel the wicked.

A spirit with red hair, enormous wings, and blazing eyes breathes out thunder and lightning, driving away the Five Dragons. Dark clouds cover the skies above the Four Seas. I perform the Yu Steps, the ritual footwork used in Daoist rites to tread the celestial pattern and constellations, summoning the spirits and making their power manifest.

Thunder shakes heaven and earth, making all things tremble. It slays the drought demon, the drought spirits, and the chiefs who command the many demons. Once its fiery light spreads, it turns ten thousand miles crimson, burning the evil spirits away without a trace.

When the talismanic command arrives, rain falls; thunder and lightning then break forth, and the thunder drums resound like winter war drums. The officials of the Thunder Ministry, who govern the thunderbolts, are commanded to wield their power, bringing dark clouds and heavy rain. At a single peal, clouds and rain envelop the Four Seas.

Golden auspicious light fills all things with its nourishing radiance, while an air of solemn harmony rises and flies. Kan and Li, the water and fire trigrams of the Bagua, are set in motion in turn, and mysterious spirits are dispatched by decree. Water ripples set transformation in motion, and the Gate of Heaven appears; lightning tears across the sky as flames surge fiercely.

Gongbin commands the halberd-bearing divine generals and subdues Gonggong, the ancient mythic water god. Wherever the ranks of rain advance, the rivers swell. Thunder crashes across the Four Seas, and Junliang Yuanhuang is honored as the vanguard general.

Shangyang calls out, and cloud masses like loosened topknots spread and unfurl. Red roosters and purple geese burst from their golden cages and wheel through the air. Crimson auspicious vapors spread everywhere, while nine tiers of the Gate of Heaven hang with shadows of red maple wood.

The Elder of Mount Tai leads Fengmeng; Hengling of the Southern Peak commands Chisong. Jintian of Western Florescence employs the Four Fiends, while Heitao of Mount Heng startles Yugong. The Five Luminaries take their place at the center and face Tiansong. A hundred spirits descend from heaven, rushing about and displaying their powers. Duo Zhejiuluo slays the flying insects, and Bingjiu, Nuanniao, and Shiaxiong join the action.

The divine generals Zhigui, Yannian, Zhen’erxiong, Wumeng, Huangxing, and others brandish their weapons and display their might. The spirits Rongxiong, Guiyan, Shanjupeng, Siquanzi, and others likewise reveal their power, striking awe into the Lord of Heaven.

The Two Patriarchs of Dongyuan turn back the imperial carriage, while envoys bearing tally-staffs cross the sky, sounding their instruments. Though heavenly demons block the road, they cannot harm one another. Songs rise between Furong and Jinjiang, and the immortal realm of Mount Kongtong comes into view.

Shenxiao, the celestial realm that governs thunder, inspects human good and evil. Jade decrees summon and dispatch the many generals of the Thunder Ministry. Tigers and leopards are slain, and savage apes are destroyed; the many officials and generals hurry to carry out their orders, ever alert and unrelenting.

With single-minded devotion, one pays homage to the divine visage of Yuru. The stars of the heavens each remain in their proper place, arrayed in order. All phenomena in the world fall under the governance of the celestial pivot, while the Water-Transporting Envoy moves among them, performing the water rites.

Unceasing rain descends from Heaven, helping my Daoist arts flourish day by day. Help me end the drought and bring an abundant harvest in its season; help me earn merit by relieving the drought.

Destroy every evil spirit and prevent them from causing harm again. Let all things grow and return to the great transformations of Creation. May Heaven’s glory be shared by all, and may merit and virtue be boundless.

By command, let the Primordial Lady of the Purple Emperor of the South Pole—a revered deity of the southern heavens—descend. Carry out the order at once, as swiftly as a fire decree.

Spell of the Four Seas (a spell invoking the gods of the four seas to bring rain)

Guardian of Radiant Clarity, Primordial Consort Suhua Jin; Heavenly Hero, Dipper Chief, Dark-Spirit God; Primordial Lord Taiyi, a revered Daoist deity who commands the water troops; and the Penglai emissary, Dushui Ting: I ask you all to oversee the waters.

The Weak River is clear and pure, without the slightest trace of murk. Govern the sources of the rivers and gather their waters toward the four quarters. The gods of the four seas and the vital essence of Heavenly Yi ride in chariots bearing water, and open the gates of Heaven.

Amid the nine Kan trigrams of the cold waters of Great Yin dwells the dark and hidden spirit of Dongyang. The Jade Thunder Master swiftly sends forth thunder, riding a great heavenly steed as he races along the celestial road of Mount Taihua.

Flowing vital energy surges with radiance, and the fire bells ring in response. Black clouds gather thickly as vapor rises from the sea. Rain pours into the hundreds of rivers, falling in unbroken streams like ropes; even an inch of land receives enough rain to fill all things with abundance.

The Rain Master’s attendants are commanded by the star Rahu, who swiftly relays the order to the stars Ji and Bi. Fish and dragons sweep across the sky, beating fins and wings; waves surge as giant whales swim to the surface.

Between fish scales of brocade hues, the waters of the hundreds of rivers pour forth. Red talismans lie hidden within, their light rising into the sky. The Lord on High has already issued the decree: delay is forbidden. Axiang, the legendary thunder god, scatters flower-rain and bears Heaven’s fragrant offering.

Swiftly command the messengers to carry out the edict: strike the crystal water vase with a jade staff, so that rain may fall across the earth and all things may grow.

General of the Fire Bells, obey the decree of the Lord on High: Yuqing commands me to carry out the Nine Chapters of Heavenly Power. I ride the clouds and banish calamity.

The thirty-six messengers, the Four Seas’ Wood Lords, the Three Mountain Clan, and the other gods are commanded to carry out the arts of summoning and dispatch.

Great Cavern—Spell of the Hundred Great Auspicious Sandalwood Flames and Harmonious Tones

Yuanshi opens the gate to the True Teaching through skillful, gentle, and harmonious means. What follows is the spell of the Hundred Great Auspicious Sandalwood Flames and Harmonious Jade Tones:

The Venerable One of Universal Light and Broad Salvation is a deity of vast radiance who saves all beings. The Heart of Primordial Mystery and Oneness refers to the deep, wondrous, pure, undivided Dao-heart. “The Great Cavern’s Vermilion Depths of Elixir; pure, harmonious, auspicious sound” praises the profound, efficacious sacred sound of the Great Cavern realm, a sound that is pure and gentle and brings good fortune.

From the three primordial forms of Qi to the sacred sounds of Brahma Heaven, the celestial realms, the Emperor’s Heart, Jade Tones, the Void, the Dao Ancestor, Great Oneness, the Supreme Emperor, the Ninefold Spirit Jade Mother, and other divine realms, the repeated refrain “auspicious sandalwood blazes in the celestial measure” brings each invocation to a close. These names and sounds together form a sacred incantation praising the heavens, divine immortals, and the Great Dao. “Samadhi” refers to a state of focused, settled meditation; the “three Qi” are the three primordial energies described in Daoism.

The scripture next lists the names of eastern deities, the Venerable Gods of the Cavern Abyss, numinous sounds, Dragon Radiance, and the gods of the Eight Harmonies. It also evokes Dark Water, celestial fruits, numinous sprouts, sweet immortal nectar, rare delicacies, and the Emperor of Heaven’s robes. These images convey the treasures, offerings, and splendid vestments of the immortal realms. “Cavern” often refers to a sacred realm that is deep and mysterious.

The scripture then praises the Wheel of Great Brightness, the wealth of the Dharma, the robes of the Emperor of Heaven, the purple-lit skirt, and such images as lotus flowers, celestial blossoms, perfect communion, True Suchness, the jeweled moon, and wisdom’s radiance. It also names the constellations, the Dawn Emperor, wondrous fragrance, Supreme Mystery fragrance, Imperial fragrance, Jade Empyrean fragrance, and true fragrance of the Cavern Gods, evoking the pure splendor, fragrances, and sacred sounds of the heavens. In Daoist Zhaijiao (purification rituals), burning incense, chanting incantations, and praising the gods are ways to honor the divine immortals and make contact with sacred realms.

The later passages continue with names such as the Divine Hymns of Highest Clarity, the fragrance of true stillness, the fragrance of the Mother of Qi, the Celestial Treasure Emperor, the True Emperor, the Immortal King, and the Teacher Treasure. They repeatedly praise states of pure Yang, Jade Radiance, supreme De, auspiciousness, and mysterious stillness and communion. The “Teacher Treasure” is one of the Three Treasures revered in Daoism and refers to the teacher who transmits the Dao and its teachings.

Finally, the scripture densely lists many sacred names and divine sounds, including Southern Longevity, the Immortal King of Long Life, Great Brahma, Dragon Luo, Fuli, and Baiyuan. Some phrases recur, lending the whole passage the sense of all the gods and divine immortals descending together in praise and offering protection. The conclusion declares that the Dao of the Great Cavern is vast and immeasurable, that its mysterious merit has accumulated to three thousand, and that its wondrous practices have been perfected in eight hundred. Through cultivation, practitioners attain a noble rank, bring forth auspicious signs like numinous fungi, and reveal the vermilion and jade-green radiance of sacred treasures. They fully realize the “Ten Supernatural Powers” and, finally, ascend bodily into the celestial realms of the “Three Subtle Heavens.” The “Ten Supernatural Powers” refers to the perfected state of spiritual abilities; the “Three Subtle Heavens” refers to the Daoist celestial levels of Clear Tenuity, Yu Yu, and Great Red.

The Supreme One of the Three Samādhis of the Cavern of the Abyss (a revered Daoist deity and the wondrous method transmitted by him), the Great Sage Penglin, is compassionate and benevolent, unobstructed, and possessed of vast majesty and De. He universally gathers in the beings of the ten directions and commands the Three Realms. With light, he stills evil and delusion; with the Emperor’s Heart Mantra, he subdues demonic hindrances. He protects living beings, dispels calamities and sins, and resolves tangled enmities. This is a great, auspicious mantra.

Invocation Mantra

With reverence, I pray to the unobstructed Lord of the Cavern of the Abyss, the supreme and matchless Venerable Sovereign of the Primordial Void, who existed before the first age (the highest deity before the creation of heaven and earth). You expound the heart method of the divine mantra of the Three Samādhis and transmit it to the Ancestor of the Myriad Dao of the Mysterious Origin (a title of a revered Daoist deity). The Celestial Worthy of the Cavern of the Abyss possesses vast De and majesty. In ages past, he proclaimed the covenant and assisted the heavens. He made twenty-two vows to deliver living beings and broadly extinguish the power of demons. A thousand kinds of enmity and ten thousand kinds of sin are dissolved; the nine ordeals and three kinds of calamity are all swept away. Those whose resolve is steadfast and who seek liberation may ascend together to the supreme Dao. All who make a petition and recite with focused attention receive protection, and their wishes are fulfilled.

Subdue the great demon kings of the Six Caverns and overcome the ghostly bandits of the Six Yin. Resolve tangled enmities through the method of clarity and harmony; with auspicious mantra sounds, scatter calamities and quiet disputes. Greatly compassionate and merciful, he leaves no living being out or forsaken. The wondrous grove of this merit is beyond recounting. I now proclaim the Emperor’s Heart Mantra, subduing the great demon kings of the Six Caverns and the ghostly bandits of the Six Yin; resolving enmities and untangling knots through the method of clarity and harmony; scattering calamities and quieting disputes with auspicious mantra sounds. Greatly compassionate and merciful, he leaves no living being out or forsaken. The wondrous grove of this merit is beyond recounting. I now proclaim the Emperor’s Heart Mantra to protect living beings and deliver those who are ready to receive it.

The various sovereigns of the ten directions and the Three Realms, the Dragon Spirits of the Eight Classes, the earth deities (spirits of the land), and the demons and ghosts who listen to the scripture and protect the Dharma—whether on earth or in the void—all straighten their robes and come to offer protection when they hear the divine mantra and the Emperor’s bell ring.

This divine incantation is made up of repeated syllables and divine names. It is used to summon deities and pray for their protection. It says that the deities manifest in countless forms, their radiance shining throughout the Dharma Realm—the totality of all things in the universe—and extending without obstruction across the Three Realms and the ten directions. They compassionately protect all living beings.

The incantation successively summons the divine generals Tianpeng, Tianyou, Heisha, and Xuanwu, along with the Six-Eyed Flying Deity, Yuanwei of the Nine Eyes, the Flying Dragon, the Jade Dragon, Pangu, and other deities. It asks them to display their divine power, send down the Dharma rain, save living beings, and protect the heart of Heaven. It then repeatedly recites phrases concerning cultivation, turning one’s fortune, accomplishment, and ascension, and respectfully asks the Heavenly Worthy of Dongyuan, a revered Daoist deity, to issue an order summoning the gods to come and provide protection.

The long sequence of names that follows includes heavenly kings, divine generals, Dragon Kings, Gongcao—divine officials who relay the commands of the gods and assist in rituals—deities of mountains, rivers, and local lands, as well as various perfected immortals. The incantation asks them all to descend together and protect the person reciting it and their entire family. In Daoist rituals, such divine names and incantations are used to summon deities to protect the ritual altar, pray for blessings, and avert calamities.

The closing prayer asks that, once the incantation has been recited, all sinful karma, enmities, and entanglements be dissolved, and every kind of calamity dispersed. It also asks that vows, lawsuits, old resentments, and lingering misfortunes accumulated by ancestors and relatives throughout the generations, as well as by those bound to the family through debts of vengeance, be extinguished at once by the sound of the incantation. May the person reciting it enjoy good fortune and peace, receive abundant blessings, and bring transformation to their ancestors; may the family live in peace and prosper, and may all living beings attain the fruition of the Dao. With reverence, they take refuge and pay homage.

The Celestial Worthy of the Threefold Mystery of the Cavern Abyss, revered by the Cavern Abyss tradition, is the Primordial Sovereign. His radiance shines in layer upon layer, and his vast Dharma Wheel—the method by which the true teaching is proclaimed and its transforming influence set in motion—turns without cease. Perfected beings and immortals teach the sacred laws, save and protect, and subdue ghosts and demons. The Measureless King harms no living being and brings about the fulfillment of incantations and vows.

The incantation of the Cavern Abyss gathers in and subdues all evil spirits everywhere. Zhanbo, zhanbo; kuozhu shan, qunxī chiwu. Gaofei chū, gaofei chū; gouke shichong li. Souxiu yun zhen, yucan yudian; angluo qi, honglu honglu. Tan da danqie chu, tan chu; [missing characters] zhen, [missing characters] zhen. Qingzhen ling (dragon), sound like lingguang; fragrant and abundant, hook the blood. Gaolin, binlin; exhaust the guests, drive them away. Water tiger, water realm; first waves, poisonous dragon. The ten thousand ghosts of the Springs and Curves are all subdued by the power of the incantation, along with evil spirits in the baleful paths. The Dark Heaven’s Dragon Sword, the black-horned sphere, strikes once and severs evil at its root. Earth-rooted brilliance; fragrant and abundant, hook the blood. Gaolin, binlin; exhaust the guests, drive them away. Water tiger, water realm; first waves, poisonous dragon. The ten thousand ghosts of the Springs and Curves are all subdued by the power of the incantation, along with evil spirits in the baleful paths. The Dark Heaven’s Dragon Sword, the black-horned sphere, strikes once and severs evil at its root.

May all beings be protected and guided into good paths and immortal realms; may demonic obstacles be subdued and departed souls be delivered. May their nature and mind be set aright and their spirit brought to peace; may poison and harm be transformed into compassion. Reverently receiving the power of Huangyue, may they forever leave the realm of ghosts, advance to the ranks of immortals, and save and protect all beings. May enmities be released and karmic offenses dispelled; may flood dragons be subdued and made to serve. Danyi, zhiyi; wondrous gate, wondrous carriage. Open the gate of truth and attain the Six Illuminations and Ten Penetrations, the divine wisdom and powers of access spoken of in Daoism. Follow the true and upright wondrous Dao: shuaiyi, shuaiyi.

Great gathering and command: shuaiyi. Great deliverance: shuaiyi. Great fulfillment: shuaiyi. The eighty-one kings and the spirits of the corpse-demons assist everywhere. Through the power of vows they uphold armor and weapons; through their divine powers they guard and protect, utterly defeating hostile foes. The Spirit King uses the Six Illuminations and the twenty-four methods for opening the truths to reveal the great pure and wondrous Dharma Wheel. Yi. Great gathering and command: shuaiyi. Great deliverance: shuaiyi. Great fulfillment: shuaiyi. The eighty-one kings and the spirits of the corpse-demons assist everywhere. Through the power of vows they uphold armor and weapons; through their divine powers they guard and protect, utterly defeating hostile foes. The Spirit King uses the Six Illuminations and the twenty-four methods for opening the truths to reveal the great pure and wondrous Dharma Wheel, the wondrous Dharma Wheel of awakening and alertness, the wondrous Dharma Wheel of great forbearance and relinquishment, and the wondrous Dharma Wheel of great fulfillment.

With vast radiance, open the truth; perfect the Ten Great Spiritual Powers and cultivate the utmost true and wondrous Dao. Vermilion, yellow, and purple talismanic characters, together with the five inner spiritual writings, gather amid the Nine Heavens and Eight Assemblies. Hidden Fulu meet and join; Daoist companions form bonds and verify the sacred Dao, until at last they attain the Dao and become perfected beings. The Perfected Being of Primordial Destiny takes nature itself as the Dharma body and saves all beings everywhere, guiding them to return together to the One Vehicle, the common path to liberation. Escape entanglements, loosen bonds, dissolve knots of the heart, and perceive one’s nature clearly to attain liberation. Transcend perfected beings, spirits, and sacred realms, and reach the realm of Great Truth. Wuwei, Wuwei; formless, formless. Xiyi, xiyi—the Dao’s subtle realm, difficult to see and hear—unite with the Dao and become perfected.

Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the command and statutes issued under the seal of the Cavern Abyss Emperor’s heart, let them be carried out at once.

Divine Incantation of the Perfected Lord Tianpeng

The Perfected Lord Tianpeng commands the baleful spirits of the Nine Heavens and the Netherworld. The Five Ding Commanders, the High and Low Generals, the Northern Elders, and other divine commanders attend at his sides. The Seven Luminaries and Eight Spirits, acting on the Supreme One’s command, manifest fearsome divine power. The long-skulled giant beast holds the Emperor’s Bell; the Three Plain Owls ride the Kui dragons. The King of the Awe-Inspiring Sword cuts down evil spirits, leaving no trace of them. Purple spiritual energy rises into the heavens, and crimson clouds blaze upward. They devour demons, monsters, ghosts, and spirits, standing athwart the wind. The old man with an ashen tongue, green teeth, and four eyes—these are all images of fearsome divine commanders.

The Celestial Strongmen ride the Kui dragons, while the King of the Awe-Inspiring Sword slays evil and erases its traces. Purple energy ascends to heaven, crimson clouds surge upward; they devour demons and ghosts, standing athwart the wind and drinking it in. The old man with an ashen tongue, green teeth, and four eyes, together with other celestial troops and divine commanders, guard the south and repel baleful forces. The divine commanders Tianzhou and Jili guard the north, blades in hand. Three hundred thousand troops protect me, surrounding me with layer upon layer of heavenly realms. They drive corpse spirits a thousand miles away and dispel ill fortune. Should any petty ghost dare to show itself, a great axe that cleaves heaven will sever its body. The fierce blood of the Flame Emperor and the fire of the Northern Dipper will burn its bones; the power of the Four Bright Ones will shatter its remains, and the Perfected Lord Tianyou will destroy its kind. One sweep of the divine blade, and ten thousand ghosts scatter of their own accord. Hasten to obey; do not defy the command.

Divine Incantation of the Perfected Lord Tianyou

The Perfected Lord Tianyou is valiant and awe-inspiring, commander-in-chief of the divine generals who govern the feudal lords. Above, he assists the North Pole; below, he watches over the Nine Provinces of the human world. He wears golden armor and carries a halberd and spear. His gaze flashes like lightning, and his claws are like golden hooks. When he encounters demons or evil spirits, he cuts them down at once; when he meets ghosts and monsters, he captures and subdues them. Obedient ghosts need not be slain; the heads of vicious ghosts, however, are cut off. The Emperor has already issued his command: no evil spirit may remain. Hasten to obey; do not defy the command.

Divine Incantation of the Perfected Lord Yisheng

The Black Emperor of the North and the Lords of the Five Qi shine with the radiance of the sun and moon; their might reaches in every direction. Hasten to obey; do not defy the command.

Divine Incantation of the Perfected Lord Yisheng

The Black Emperor of the North, a Daoist deity of the northern quarter, commands the Five Qi Spirit Generals, who govern the primal Qi of the five directions. His radiance shines upon the sun and moon; his power extends throughout Heaven and Earth. He can send forth and dispatch Fulu (talismans and registers), summon the spirits, and seal off the gates of the underworld. Attendants and troops follow at his sides, while the Three-Five Generals guard him. The Thunder Duke booms like a thunderclap; lightning flashes, and the wind rushes. Blades and swords fall thick as rain, and his ceremonial retinue stretches like clouds. Holding the Imperial Bell and wearing the Kunlun Crown, he patrols the world, capturing ghosts and spirits.

The community gods of the nine provinces—the local deities—and all spirits who receive offerings are forbidden to disobey. Should any spirit dare to flaunt its power and sow disorder, the Star of Restraint will bind its hands, and the Northern Emperor will seize its soul. The star gods of the Three Terraces, the Seven Stars, and others wield swords to strike down evil essences. Though the offense may not merit a severe punishment, calamity will still befall the offender’s descendants. Evil essences and mountain-and-river demons: I swear I will show you no mercy. At the sound of my command, your heads will split and your brains burst, crumbling to dust. Act with the urgency of a statute.

Divine Incantation of the True Lord You Sheng

The True Lord You Sheng, a revered Daoist deity often associated with the northern and watery realms, was born from the Qi of Great Yin and is the essence of the Water position. He corresponds to the lunar mansions Xu and Wei, and appears in the form of a stove serpent. His divine power extends through the Six Directions—Heaven and Earth and the four quarters—and his might subdues the myriad spirits. No hidden place can escape his keen perception, and no wish lies beyond his power to grant. Through the endings and beginnings of kalpas, demons are shattered to dust. Act with the urgency of a statute.

Divine Incantation of the True Lord You Sheng

The True Lord You Sheng was born from the Qi of Great Yin and is the essence of the Water position. He corresponds to the lunar mansions Xu and Wei, and appears in the form of a stove serpent. His divine power extends through the Six Directions, and his might subdues the myriad spirits. No hidden place lies beyond his perception, and no wish is beyond his power to grant. At the end or beginning of a kalpa, he can destroy demonic essences, protect living beings, and bring peace to families and the state.

When a kalpa nears its end and demonic influences spread through the world, the Supreme Emperor issues an edict, and I descend by command to manifest my divine power. I will proclaim the Orthodox Teaching, sweep away evil, dispel the calamities of war, nurture all living beings, and aid the restoration of the age. Should any petty ghost dare to reveal itself, I need only look upon it once, and the Five Sacred Peaks will collapse. Act with the urgency of a statute.

This completes Volume One of the Supreme One’s Divine Incantations of the Three Caverns.

The Supreme One’s Divine Incantations of the Three Caverns, Volume Two

Incantations for Summoning and Commanding the Thunder Deities

Incantation for Commanding the Thirty-Six Thunders

The perfectly true gods of Heaven’s Cavern blaze with fiery radiance. Divine birds in the heavens guard the four directions, fierce as Generals Ding and Xin. The cold light of the ice wheel flows and turns, transforming into a wheel of fire that shines brightly. Hejia di xi, the Primordial Lord of Great Unity (a Daoist goddess). Biting the Gang constellation, sparrow’s tongue; heavenly thunder, wind chimes. The fire pig, black dog, and fire eagle arrive trailing a rank smoke. The Gate of Heaven resounds with thunderclaps; armored divine generals gallop forth in fierce power. The Immortal Capital sends forth fire and thunder; thunder in the mountains becomes clouds of flame. The primal brightness of wind and fire; the Fire Earl and the gods of wind and thunder. Goulou jili, the Fourth Elder of the Knowing Maiden. Thunder wind chimes. The fire pig, black dog, and fire eagle arrive trailing a rank smoke. The Gate of Heaven resounds with thunderclaps; armored divine generals gallop forth in fierce power. The Immortal Capital sends forth fire and thunder; thunder in the mountains becomes clouds of flame. The primal brightness of wind and fire; the Fire Earl and the gods of wind and thunder. Goulou jili, the Fourth Elder of the Knowing Maiden. Jade Thunder, the Elder of Vast Brightness; hidden spirits of Cavern Yang. The lords and guests of the Four Dark Realms; firelight flows like crystal. The giant god Taihua, with golden eyes and azure thoughts. Blue fangs and an iron face; smoke scatters in thunderclaps. Lord of Thunder, Earl Guan; Woodman Lang, shining like Kui. Sudden Fire, the command; Shaoyang’s fire chariot. Silver-fanged fierce officers; the Six Waves roll up the waters. Eagles fly and hounds run; molten gold and fire bells. All act in accordance with the urgent command.

General Incantation of the Seventy-Two Seasonal Periods

He ga ni, lou zhui qian jie li jiu lu zhao, the numinous and mighty one casts the betel nut. Ning kai ting cao, yuan tan yu nu. □ ji ke lun, gui dong jin si. Zui seng shi mian, guan yu long hao. Qiong ba jiao ba, e chou yuan chi. Gong xiao du shang.

Incantation for Grasping the Thunder Formation

Zhui qian jie li jiu lu zhao, the numinous and mighty one casts the betel nut. Ning kai ting cao, yuan tan yu nu. □ ji ke lun, gui dong jin si. Zui seng shi mian, guan yu long hao. Qiong ba jiao ba, e chou yuan chi. Gong xiao du shang.

Incantation for Grasping the Thunder Formation

As the hand signs are turned, the first circle sends the power of the Gate of Heaven straight ahead; the second sends crisscrossing thunderbolts flying to strike; the third has dragon gods exhale clouds and mist; the fourth spreads thunder and rain far and wide; the fifth sends sand flying and rocks tumbling; the sixth makes mountain spirits submit and flee; the seventh brings the commanders of Yin thunder with their troops. In accordance with my command, subdue the headless, lawless ghosts among the Six Heavens and bring them beneath my Kui-Gang (a divine force associated with the Northern Dipper constellations and invoked in ritual arts) for judgment, so they dare not act.

Incantation of the Five Thunders for Treating Illness

Wood Virtue, the Star of Chen (the star deity of Wood in the East), is a spirit of the East. May you follow the Nine Qi (primordial energy as understood in Daoism) that I summon and drive out evil demons and spirits. If any dare to resist or defy, seize them and escort them to Kui-Gang (a star deity used in Daoism to subdue evil influences). The essence of Fire is a spirit of the South. May you follow the Three Qi that I summon and burn away evil demons and spirits. If any dare to resist or defy, seize them and escort them to Kui-Gang.

General White Tiger (a Daoist divine general) is the righteous deity who guards the palace position. May you follow the Seven Qi that I summon and slay evil demons and spirits. If any dare to resist or defy, seize them and escort them to Kui-Gang. The Generals of Heaven and Earth (divine generals between Heaven and Earth) appear in the form of a tortoise joined with a snake. May you follow the Five Qi that I summon and dispel ill omens. If any dare to resist or defy, seize them and escort them to Kui-Gang.

The Qi of Wu and Ji (Earth Qi corresponding to the central direction) gathers and takes form. May you follow the One Qi that I summon, lie in wait for demons and spirits, and subdue them. If any dare to resist or defy, seize them and escort them to Kui-Gang. Execute this command with utmost urgency, in accordance with the statutes. All who dare to resist or defy are to be seized and taken to Kui-Gang. The Qi of Wu and Ji gathers and takes form; follow the One Qi that I summon, lie in wait for demons and spirits. If any dare to resist or defy, seize them and take them to Kui-Gang. Execute this command with utmost urgency, in accordance with the statutes.

Matching Talisman Incantation

Bi, Fang, Xin, Mao, Zhang, Xu, and Wei are all names of lunar mansions. When drought and dryness strike, bring moisture; when rain falls, clear the skies. May the divine spirits assist in carrying out the Great Dao and draw in the rain clouds. Execute this command with utmost urgency, in accordance with the statutes.

Legacy Incantation

In the underworld there are six spirits, and in the world of the living there are also six spirits. They move swiftly, and their spiritual workings are unfathomable: they are the divine generals of the Six Jia and Six Ding. You are ancestral spirits of the deep and distant realms, formed from the vital essence of Heaven and Earth. By the command of the Celestial Emperor, go at once to the place of Zi-Geng. Let the appointed divine general lead the ranks, marshal the troops, and descend with force, manifesting like thunder and lightning, with power enough to shatter mountains. Take up the talisman, apply the ink, and raise the fire; go there at once without delay. Do not stop—hurry away.

Incantation for Commanding the Ten Thousand Spirits

The jade of Qian wards off poison and harm; it stirs and reveals the Luo spirits. The Eight Immortals wield great axes, receiving the might and numinous power of the Supreme Emperor. Great Mystery sends down the light of the sun; the Seven Spirits charge into the courtyard. Yellow Truth shines forth in horned form; the fire bells blaze as they are cast. Purple talismanic script and jade characters make the four directions shine bright. The spirits of the Nine Heavens, Six Heavens, and Four Heavens send the command of the Mysterious Ancestor outward and guard within the commanders who lead the troops. On the left they bring success; on the right they provide protection. Fire Qi blazes fiercely, and the wind surges and steams. By command, slay the myriad demons; crush and cut down a thousand kinds of evil spirits. Golden Truth stirs its might, and the nine kinds of demons vanish without a trace. I wear and carry the true talisman and command the myriad spirits; I ascend through the Three Realms and meet at the imperial capital. Execute this command with utmost urgency, in accordance with the statutes.

Incantation for Summoning the Five Sacred Peaks

The Celestial Grandson of Mount Tai, a celestial deity of the heavenly court in the Northern Pole. The Southern Cinnabar Heavenly Emperor is honored as lord of the Fire Peak. The Western Splendor Gengyao ascends to the Three Supreme Heavens and unites with the Imperial City. May this be carried out swiftly in accordance with the command.

Incantation for Summoning the Five Sacred Peaks

The Celestial Grandson of Mount Tai is a deity of the heavenly court in the Northern Pole. The Southern Cinnabar Heavenly Emperor is lord of the Fire Peak. The Western Splendor Gengyao shines like the essence streaming from the Great White Star. The Dark Emperor of Mount Heng resides in the Great Void at Central Song. The deities govern the myriad spirits and oversee life and death. The thunder powers have received their orders; enter the talisman at once and await commands. Seize, restrain, and summon.

Incantation for Releasing Thunder

The north wind comes drifting in, and the west wind blows with force. The phoenix of the Southern Cinnabar spreads its wings and soars; the dragon of the Eastern Fire coils and does not depart. The Perfected One holds up the dispatch and tally, summoning you to transform into cloud and thunder. Hurry to the thunder altar and rescue all beings from their suffering. May this be carried out swiftly in accordance with the command.

Incantation of Savage Thunder

In the eastern Jia position, the primal force of Qian flows freely; pure and upright energy circulates swiftly. I receive the mandate of long life, as though I hold Heaven and Earth in my hands. Thunder deities lie concealed and obey my incantation; once summoned to act, thunder and rain surge forth. May the Five Thunders descend swiftly and enter the turning of my thunder wheel, helping me carry out the Great Dao. You must not break your oath. Above the Xun position, heavenly troops form their ranks; cut down your ancestors of seven generations. Descend swiftly, descend at once, and reveal your true form without delay. May this be carried out swiftly in accordance with the command.

Incantation for Slaying Ghosts and Subduing Demons

Heavenly Origin Taiyi, a revered celestial deity, governs Jing and Qi, and commands troops and generals. Guard and cut down your ancestors of seven generations. Descend swiftly, descend at once, and reveal your true form without delay. May this be carried out swiftly in accordance with the command.

Incantation for Slaying Ghosts and Subduing Demons

Heavenly Origin Taiyi governs Jing and Qi, and commands troops and generals. He protects the lands of the world, preserving and harmonizing the vital energies of life. He wears splendid robes and a dignified blue headdress. The Azure Dragon stands to his left, and the White Tiger to his right. He wears a dragon sword and the emblem of the Five Blessings, and commands divine officials and the Three-Five Generals. He slays evil spirits and crushes demons. He bestows blessings and opens the way to understanding the profound Dao. Once the evil spirits and demons have been destroyed, the Five Emperors descend in majesty. They protect the world in lasting peace and make the ruler’s Virtue shine ever brighter. A Yellow Dragon descends from the heavens, foretelling the ruler’s long life. The Jingxiao Cavern Chapter, a scripture of the celestial realm, can dispel demonic obstacles and drive away calamities. May this be carried out swiftly in accordance with the command.

Incantation for Preserving the Order of the Kalpa

After the Five Kalpas—the long cycles of tribulation described in Daoism—have ended, a new cycle of tribulation will come in its turn. Jingxiao, a celestial general, is therefore commanded to uphold and govern the cycle. The fortunes of the Nine Heavens decline; the numbers of Yin and Yang reach their limit; the Five Phases fall into disorder and run contrary to their proper course; and the Six Heavens, the baleful forces described in Daoism, run rampant. The Way of Heaven has changed, and the order of the human world is nearing its end.

Inform Lieque, the Thunder Deity, and command Fenglong, also a Thunder Deity, to direct and deploy the forces. The Five Elders transform into the Five Thunder Lords. They fly and change form, sweeping away the demons. They brandish spears and halberds and wield great axes, ride upon dark clouds, and patrol the Nine Earths, burning evil spirits with blazing fire. They cleanse wickedness and defilement, sweeping away demonic influences. Pian Zhu Lu Hui, He Li Guang Ren. Lu Kan Xian Sheng, Lü Zhao Ji Chui. Mi Cheng Ce Ji, Cun Zhi Zhao Ji. Thus all disasters are removed, and all calamities and disturbances are brought to rest.

The blazing fire of the Five Thunders burns evil spirits, cleanses wickedness and defilement, and sweeps away demonic influences. Pian Zhu Lu Hui, He Li Guang Ren. Lu Kan Xian Sheng, Lü Zhao Ji Chui. Mi Cheng Ce Ji, Cun Zhi Zhao Ji. Thus all disasters are removed, and all calamities and disturbances are brought to rest. The Five Thunders unleash their divine might; the thunder decree shall surely be carried out. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Spell to Extinguish Epidemics

Shiqing, the blue celestial realm described in Daoism, issues the talismanic command; Dongyuan, the realm where Daoist deities or divine officials dwell, carries out the punishments of the righteous law. A golden axe clears the way in front, while thunder drums resound behind. Thousands upon thousands of soldiers and generals follow, transforming and manifesting their true divine might. Among the forces commanded by Jingxiao are awe-inspiring divine generals. Hua You Ye Yong, Miao Chu Shu Gui. Ce Jin Dong Hui, Xi Yuan Zou Ming. Li Gang Da Bian, Tuo Mo Zi Chi.

Gather Yin Qi and harmonize Yang Qi; rectify and restrain the roots of evil. Demons and vengeful ghosts are bound and escorted to the depths beneath the dark springs. Should anyone dare to offend, seize and escort them to Dongyuan, where they will be punished with wind blades. Even if they die ten thousand times, they shall not be pardoned. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Spell to Heal Illness and Preserve Life

The Mysterious Spirit of the Great Void, who dwells in the vastness of the void and in profound mystery; the Origin Lord of the Empty Cavern and Hidden Abyss, who dwells in a place both hollow and deep—born in a subtle, unseen realm, they transform and set all things in motion … and escort them to the depths beneath the dark springs. Should anyone dare to offend, seize and escort them to Dongyuan, where they will be punished with wind blades. Even if they die ten thousand times, they shall not be pardoned. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Within the Great Void there is a numinous spirit of profound mystery, a sovereign deity of hollow depths and primordial remoteness. It is born amid the subtle and boundless, sets creation in motion, and reveals the mysterious source. Tranquil and practicing Wuwei (non-action), it abides in its true nature, turns its light inward, and dispels malign Qi. It can destroy demonic obstacles and drive away calamity, bringing all things into harmony and returning them to the utmost truth. Its wisdom shines like a blade, and its power is enough to subdue demons and fiends. How could the age of the Five Turbidities disturb it? Its radiance is brilliant, appearing like a splendid vision. Wear and uphold the writings of Jingxiao (the High Heavens), and cloudlight will shine from your body; jade talismans guard the inner spirits of the body, while dragons and tigers entwine to protect the embryo-child—the inner vitality spoken of in cultivation. Water, fire, metal, and wood blend together, uniting as one within the honored deity; the hundred channels settle and flow freely, and the Imperial Perfected—the true gods of Heaven—guard your life.

Great Brahmā Sea-Overturning Incantation

In the dark and distant depths, light shines through and purifies all. Observe the first stirrings, proclaim grace, and spread benevolence like ripples widening across the water. The jade-green waters of the immortal realm float expansively along the banks; barriers rise upon the banks, and all is reverent and still. Brahmā Sea-Overturning Incantation.

In the dark and distant depths, light shines through and purifies all. Observe the first stirrings, proclaim grace, and spread benevolence like ripples widening across the water. The jade-green waters of the immortal realm float expansively along the banks; barriers rise upon the banks, and all is reverent and still. Rouse and guard the barriers, sweep away evil and filth, and return all things to their source. Lighten the body and ascend, riding forth to take your place. Let sincerity shine clear and make the request known; the horn sounds, and the waves gradually subside.

Invocation for Summoning the Five Thunders

The Jade Clarity Heaven (a revered Daoist celestial realm) is clear at its beginning; here the true talisman is pledged. Set the Yin and Yang Qi in motion, blending them into one to form the true. O Five Thunders, O Five Thunders, swiftly gather at Huangning (a Daoist deity or sacred realm). Qi swirls and transforms; thunder roars, and lightning strikes in haste. Hear the summons and come at once; swiftly send forth the forceful thunder of Yang. Langming Hubin, Duyu Wei Lu, Chunyi Sha She. (These are secret phrases in the incantation; their sounds and meanings are retained as in the original.) Hasten in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Heavenly Thunder Spirit Incantation

The Three Heavens (the celestial realms in Daoism) nurture primordial Qi, while Jingxiao enacts the orthodox law. Issue the command that brings forth and transforms the myriad things, in correspondence with the constellations above. Summon the Thunder Spirits and set wind and thunder in motion; Great Unity Emperor, summon your true numen. At a single summons, come at once and descend to the Imperial Court.

Earthly Thunder Spirit Incantation

Mysterious Qi circulates back and forth; the Cinnabar Heaven (the red celestial realm) issues its command. Thunder roars through the vast emptiness, and the fire command is proclaimed. Yandu receives the order to cut down evil spirits and protect life. Set the chariot in order, ride the fire chariot, and command your true numen. At a single summons, come at once and descend to the Imperial Court.

Earthly Thunder Spirit Incantation

Mysterious Qi circulates back and forth, and the command of the Cinnabar Heaven is carried out. Thunder roars through the vast emptiness, and the fire command is proclaimed. Yandu receives the order to cut down evil spirits and protect life. Ready the fire chariot and command the thunder troops. Jingxiao comes to rescue and protect, shaking the thunder in Heaven.

Water Thunder Spirit Incantation

In the Celestial Realm of Beginning Azure, the command of thunder is conveyed to Jingxiao, the heavenly realm where the Thunder Gods dwell. The Thunder Gods summon wind and thunder to cut down evil spirits and destroy demons. Thunderclaps roar as the Qi of Yin and Yang converge; lightning circles overhead, and blazing fire rises. The thunder chariot swiftly sets off, descending from the distant horizon.

Divine Thunder Incantation

With the mysterious sounds transmitted from the Nine Heavens, urgently summon the assembled gods. They gather in Jingxiao, directing thunder and racing through the clouds. Golden axes, held by divine generals, clear the way ahead; thunder drums pound, and thunderbolts surge forth. The God Taiyi presides over the execution and commands the thunder troops. The gods arrive in response to the talismanic command, sweeping away evil and monstrous spirits.

Earth Altar Thunder Invocation

Jingxiao, high above, governs thunder and commands the gods of the Three Realms to obey and carry out the execution. The Earth Altar Commanders of the Nine Provinces, together with the deities who receive offerings, assist the movement of Yin and Yang and act through thunder that shakes the heavens. We ask you to come in response to the talismanic command, cut down evil spirits, and protect the living.

Thunder Edict Talisman Incantation

The spirits of fiery power and the radiant spirits of fire blaze with brilliant light. The Qi of Red Radiance shines forth; the Thunder Gods race through the clouds, and bells ring out in a flowing cadence. An edict descends from the Immortal Capital, where the stars appear and vanish. Black clouds gather thickly; lightning flashes like fire, swift as stars. Golden axes sweep in from the four directions, subduing and cutting down evil and monstrous spirits. At the command of Heaven, thunder immediately crashes and roars. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the laws!

Thunder-Summoning Incantation

The incantation begins with syllables such as “Om,” summoning the Celestial Emperor, the Thunderclap, and the gods of thunder and lightning to subdue evil spirits. It then continues with a succession of esoteric syllables. The original contains missing characters and garbled text, so the relevant phrases cannot be deciphered.

Thunder-Driving Incantation

The phrases beginning “Om, Heavenly Emperor, Qieye, Thunderbolt, She” consist of a sequence of incantatory sounds and divine spell language. They are used chiefly to summon and command the thunder forces, and to call upon the power of the Heavenly Emperor to subdue and restrain harmful spirits. Words in the spell such as “she,” “chi,” and “jiusha she” convey the meanings of restraining, commanding, and expelling harmful spirits. The incantatory sounds are generally chanted as part of the ritual and are not translated word by word.

The “Thunder Invocation Spell” is used to activate thunder methods. The continuous syllables “Bozha bojia mazhan jili,” and similar phrases, are primarily meant to be chanted. Terms such as “fire wheel” and “samadhi” belong to the vocabulary of Daoist thunder methods and cultivation, evoking the use of fire and thunder as ritual powers. The passage repeats the same spell phrase several times and concludes with “Juni juni basuozha.”

“Thunder Scripture, Upper Section Spell” means the spell recorded in the upper section of the Thunder Scripture.

O supreme Lord Most High of the Great Clarity! Om, commanders of wind, fire, thunder, and lightning, mighty gods displaying their awe-inspiring power! Om, douluoni □; om, Heisha na □.

August Heaven gives me life and nurtures me; August Earth bears me. The sun and moon shine upon me, and the stars lend me their radiance. The immortals recommend me, and the spirit who governs destiny aids me. The Celestial Worthy Who Relieves Suffering, Great One of the Supreme Unity, serves at my command; the revered spirit Yuchen summons me. The Great Emperors of the Three Offices protect me, and the Five Directions’ Heavenly Emperors guard me. □□ follows me, and the Heavenly Official supports me. Spirit children who have received the teaching, the Earth Official issues you a decree. The divine generals of the Thunder Department attend me, and the Water Official gives the command. Fire Qi—the energy of the Fire Phase in Daoist teaching—gathers and unites; all dragons heed my orders. My magical power reaches the Jade Clarity realm, one of the Three Pure Ones’ realms, and the Five Generals of the Celestial Capital accompany me. Thunder rolls, and the Jade Emperor grants aid. The Star Lord of the Southern Dipper assists me; the Star Lord of the Northern Dipper supports me. Golden youths attend me, and jade maidens follow me. The divine generals of the Six Jia stand guard over me, and the divine generals of the Six Ding help me advance. The Gate of Heaven opens for me, and the Earth Portal clears my way. Mountains and marshes receive me; rivers let me cross. Wind and rain speed me on, and divine music lends me its force. The Four Sages assist me, and thunder and lightning follow me. The Eight Trigrams obey me, and the Nine Palaces provide me with a path of concealment. Yin-Yang takes me as its source; the Five Phases aid me. The four seasons help bring my work to completion. Om, hong, jizha!

Mountains and marshes receive me; rivers let me cross. Wind and rain speed me on, and divine music lends me its force. The Four Sages assist me, and thunder and lightning follow me. The Eight Trigrams obey me, and the Nine Palaces provide me with a path of concealment. Yin-Yang takes me as its source; the Five Phases aid me. The four seasons help bring my work to completion. Om, hong, jizha! Unbind—

With hair unbound, each reveals its true form. Marshal Tianpeng issues orders for me with a seal and written proclamation. Marshal Tianyou guards me with his sword. True Lord Yisheng protects me with his halberd. Mysterious Heaven’s True Warrior, Zhenwu, aids me with the power of water and fire. The Four River Lords protect me, and nine dragons encircle me. Sweet rain escorts me; the Fire God travels with me. Lightning illuminates me, and the Twenty-Four Qi—the system of divine generals that Daoism uses to govern the seasons and the Qi of Heaven and Earth—take turns standing guard over me. The spirits within my body shine forth, bright as the sun and moon in the void; I swear an oath to Heaven. □□□□ om □, luminous spirit, om biliguang: by decree, evil spirits and baleful forces retreat and disperse.

“Incantation from the Middle Section of the Thunder Scripture”

Om mata □, om □□, Auxiliary Star; om ji □ zha, om sheguo zha, om yanqi he. Zhongzhi wo. The spirits within my body shine forth, bright as the sun and moon in the void; I swear an oath to Heaven. □□□□ om □, luminous spirit, om biliguang: by decree, evil spirits and baleful forces retreat and disperse.

“Incantation from the Middle Section of the Thunder Scripture”

Om ma zha, om supporting star, om ji zha, om she guo zha, om yan Qi he. This incantation begins with sounds such as “om.” Some characters and phrases are missing, so its precise meaning is difficult to determine. It says to nurture the Three Hun (the body’s three souls in Daoist teaching) within the heart, so that the Seven Po (the body’s seven corporeal spirits) may be nourished.

The Thunder Lord and the Lightning Mother move with the beat of the drum, unleashing the might of thunder and lightning. The incantation summons the power of Feiyu Maozha and subdues fierce beings with copper teeth and iron claws. Its power fills the north and south and can also command the east and west. It subdues Xingze and cuts down evil beings that fly through the air. It brings the yellow Qi into harmony and circulation, sweeping away darkness; it shakes Dou and Niu, the two lunar mansions, and fills ghosts and spirits with fear. The Three Commands are blocked, while the Six Jia, Daoist divine generals, patrol back and forth.

The Metal Spirit soars through the sky, and the Great God Mulang displays his might. Water Qi fills the Mysterious Gate, a deep and hidden portal; Fire Qi descends upon Liming, a direction associated with the south and fire; Earth Qi steadies the Five Palaces, the palaces corresponding to the five directions or Five Phases, and the sun and moon shine bright. Dragon and tiger cross paths, bringing wind and rain; rivers and seas surge and flow backward, while mountains collapse and topple. The incantation’s power pierces the heavens and breaks through the earth, its might reaching far and high. Whatever is prayed for is granted; wherever it goes, things proceed smoothly; whatever is done is fitting; whatever is planned succeeds.

The Great Sage Tiangang and the Venerable Spirit Hekui, deities associated in Daoism with the Big Dipper and stellar worship, can transform in countless ways and unite with the Great Dao to attain the Real. There is no spirit they cannot command and no order they cannot carry out. To the left is the Azure Dragon, to the right the White Tiger, in front the Vermilion Bird, and behind the Black Tortoise, the guardians of the four directions. Above the head is the Flower Canopy; beneath the feet are Kuigang, the stars of the Big Dipper and related stellar spirits. Their divine might shines with solemn majesty and commands the four directions.

Those who care for me may live; those who hate me will suffer calamity. Those who plot against me will die, and those who resent me will perish. Divine boys and maidens, Vajras who break evil, and three thousand six hundred spirits are always at my sides. They carry tally tokens and hold Fulu (talismans and registers), accompanying me wherever I go. The Most High commands the capital; may Heaven and Earth be greatly auspicious. The twenty-four Fulu correspond to the movements of the stars and the calendar. They command dragons and tigers, capture and destroy demons and evil beings. Anyone who so much as disobeys the order will have their documents sent to the Thunder Court for punishment. Carry this out swiftly, without delay.

“Thunder Scripture, Lower Section Incantation” is the title or category label for this passage.

The Supreme Great Clarity August Elder Sovereign (a revered Daoist deity) is above. By means of an incantation, summon the gods and generals: the Northern Emperor Black Fiend, commander of mighty divine troops, displays his awe-inspiring power. Thunder crashes and lightning flashes, shaking the heavenly court; under orders, he subdues evil spirits. The fierce Wind-Bearing Officer, the Wind-Chasing Messenger, the Wind Earl, and other divine generals swiftly raise winds and drive mist, commanding dragons to move the clouds. The Thunder-Calling Messenger sets lightning blazing. Wind rises from Xun, the southeast direction indicated by the Eight Trigrams; the power of the Heavenly Dipper stars is arrayed, and the gods of the Three Terraces lend me their protection. Flying thunder shakes the four quarters. The Wind Earl and Rain Master are summoned once more to bring down dark clouds at speed. The Lord of Thunder and Mother of Lightning wield thunder and lightning; the host of Five-Thunder generals stirs the Qi of heaven and earth and searches throughout the world, making the Five Sacred Peaks tremble.

Wherever I go, nothing can bar my way: when I enter the sea, Heaven’s Gate opens; when I enter a river, Earth’s Portal appears. By the decree of the Nine Heavens, summon the Marshal of the Celestial Capital and thunder gods from every quarter to obey orders: the Five Emperors’ Thunder Lords, the Thunder Lord of Thunderclaps, the Yin-Yang Thunder Lord, the Six Jia Thunder Lord, the Thunder Lord who raises floodwaters, the Eight Winds Thunder Lord, and all the thunder generals who govern wind and rain, mountains, rivers, lakes and seas, clouds, rain, frost and snow, and the driving out of evil and breaking of enemy formations. May blessings and wealth abound like flowing rivers; may gold, jade, and treasures be plentiful, and may every wish be granted. Let me take and use the world’s treasures at will; let the ghosts and gods of the land obey my commands. Any who defy the order shall be swiftly punished with the thunder axe.

On the day the Great God Mingli completes his work, his name will be entered in the registers of the immortals of Highest Clarity. The gods within my body will naturally be purified. Recommended by Great Mystery, I will be listed among the immortals in the Jade Court. Strongmen will clear the way ahead, and heavenly troops will guard behind, driving thunder, thunderclaps, and flying fire-bells at speed. The City God and the local altar officials, protectors of the locality, may not detain them. Then, with another incantation, urge the heavenly troops onward and command the Five Directional Messengers and the Great God of Thunderclaps to carry out the decree without delay. They must act with all possible speed and obey the laws of the Supreme Great Clarity August Elder Sovereign.

Thunderbolt Charm of Qian Heaven

The thunder of the Kui Star, one of the seven stars of the Northern Dipper, resounds, setting the spirits of the Nine Provinces in motion. Its command accords with Heaven and Earth, crosses the celestial waters, and carries out its charge. In reverent obedience to the decree of the Supreme One, the Most High, the Emperor and Elder Lord of Great Clarity, act with all haste.

The thunder of the Kui Star resounds, setting the spirits of the Nine Provinces in motion. Its command accords with Heaven and Earth, flies across the celestial realm, and brings down an amnesty decree. The local earth spirits of the Nine Provinces act at the command of the Way of Jade Clarity. The flying thunder and lightning gods and their officials appear; flames fill the sky and rise ten thousand yards high. General Thunder listens to my command and sends thunderbolts streaking across the sky. The envoys of the gods who array themselves across Heaven, Yan Guang, shake Heaven and Earth; the fierce-faced envoy Jiao Tian makes thunderbolts crash in crossing strikes. The Western command envoy, the Sudden-Fire official Bo Wen; the fierce officer Zhao Gongming; and the swift-running divine officials, who race like meteors, all come to receive orders. Envoy Tian Wenqing; Tian Wenguang, envoy who drives fire and thunderbolts; Feng Yi, envoy who breaks trees; General Thunder Yan Shichong; the local earth spirits of the Nine Provinces; the divine officers of the Great One in the Ten Directions; and the earth gods who patrol the Five Sacred Peaks and summon divine generals all hasten together to carry out the rite. Thunderbolts race across the sky, a divine sword stands upon the earth, and thunder roars. The Heavenly Canopy’s Black Fiend—the Heavenly Canopy general and his Black Fiend troops—also obeys the command. Act with all haste.

Thunder-Driving Charm

Thunderlight blazes fiercely, lightning streams like flowing fire, and meteors race swiftly. I dispatch the divine generals, commanding them to face south and advance valiantly. The hooked-faced envoy immediately purifies Heaven and Earth; the fierce-faced envoy spreads the numinous Qi of the celestial realm. The wide-eyed envoy shakes the thunder gods; the glaring-eyed envoy forms ranks and sets the camp. The Eight Slaughterers unleash their fierce divine might and give chase. The hooked-faced, fierce-faced, wide-eyed, and glaring-eyed envoys receive orders once more and pursue their quarry as far as the Yi star. Divine troops advance in formation under the decree of the Nine Heavens. Whoever dares disobey shall have their body shattered.

Thunder-Pursuing Charm

Heavenly thunder surges mightily, its power filling the Nine Provinces. It shakes Jade Clarity above and reaches down through to Northern Feng, the underworld in the north. The seventy-two generals and the gods of the Five Divisions emerge in formation, with the Golden Court before them and the jade carriage behind. The Primordial Lady of the Purple Court and the Direct-Thunder Envoy Yuanming swiftly obey the Primordial Lady’s command from the Purple Court, driving thunder in a mighty surge as thunderbolts roar. Summon at once the divine generals Xie Dao, Bo Wen, Li Zhongqing, Huang Tianyou, and Guan Bozheng, who pursues the Yi star. Set the divine troops in motion across Heaven and Earth; carry out the urgent command without delay.

Incantation for Establishing the Thunder Report

The sky grows dim, the earth shakes. Divine might descends to guard Heaven and Earth. The Thunder Lord and the Yi Star lend their aid; the Way of Heaven protects the righteous path. I now command you: sound forth at once. Carry this out with all haste.

Incantation of Oath to the Thunder Gods

You Thunder Gods each have your own office and name. Gods who bring the blessing of thunder and fire, each keep to your appointed charge. I hold authority over the mysterious mandate of the Nine Heavens, wield the power of thunderbolts, and command the thunderclaps. My might quells Heaven and Earth; the Eight Baleful Spirits (malign spirits of the eight directions) must all obey my command.

The envoy of sudden fire, Bo Wen, with his fierce face, bears the title Zhongqing; the divine lord Tian Pu, envoy of the Nine Heavens, and the envoy Mo Cuo—all act at my command. By summons, I dispatch the thunder; my might quells Heaven and Earth, and the Eight Baleful Spirits obey. The envoy of sudden fire, Bo Wen, with his fierce face, bears the title Zhongqing; the divine lord Tian Pu, envoy of the Nine Heavens, and the envoy Mo Cuo—all act at my command. I further summon Xie You, the envoy who bears the direct talisman of the Nine Heavens, to make the sound of thunderbolts shake the four quarters and quell Heaven and Earth. I summon you now: you must not disobey.

Incantation for Empowering the Talisman

The Celestial Emperor issues a talismanic command, ordering the thunder to carry it out. Punish evil deeds, cut away harm, destroy wicked temples, and banish evil spirits. Should evil gods or demons dare to obstruct me or appear before me, the General of Thunderbolts will come to aid me in carrying out the Daoist rite. Grant a numinous response without delay.

Another Incantation

Heaven has might, Earth has might, and the spirits have might; divine power manifests its presence. The Primordial Supreme Ones (revered Daoist deities) and the Five Elders, exalted lords, uphold the laws of Great Peace and survey the eight directions. The Five Emperors issue their commands, heard even in the underworld.

Above, I rule over the imperial lords; in the center, I govern Feng Mountain (the mountain seat of the underworld in Daoist belief); below, I command the rivers, seas, and twelve sources of water. By means of the Eight Mighty Spirits Incantation and the numinous tablets and jade texts (sacred writings bearing divine commands), I summon dragons to bear water, gather breath, and draw clouds together; I behead demons and evils, drive off ghosts and spirits, and sweep away the miasma of demons. All manner of spirits and monsters must be subdued; may the divine power I invoke descend swiftly. By means of the Eight Mighty Spirits Incantation and the numinous tablets and jade texts, I summon dragons to bear water, gather breath, and draw clouds together; I behead demons and evils, drive off ghosts and spirits, and sweep away the miasma of demons. All manner of spirits and monsters must be subdued; may the divine power I invoke descend swiftly. Carry this out with all haste in accordance with the ordinances.

Incantation of the Yi Star’s Bloodshed and Slaughter

The divine spirits of the heavenly shadow, the Star Lord of Blood Slaughter, the Star Lord of the Blood Blade, the Star Lord of Blood Poison, and the Star Lord of Blood Inspection: the four Star Lords shine with vast brilliance, while the sun and moon remain bright for ages. The five stars in heaven accord with my will, and the will of the earth accords with mine as well. I now command the gods and issue orders that thunder and lightning shake heaven and earth.

Summon at once the Azure-Mystery Reversed-Growth Thunder Emperor of Jia and Yi Wood in the East, who governs the Wood Qi of the eastern quarter. Blessings are boundless, and the Wing Star travels on without end. The Blood Duke shakes the heavens; thunder and lightning strike without pause, and thunderfire rises continually, shaking heaven and earth. General Yan of the Wing Star, obey the statutes of the Capital of Heaven: swiftly command the power of the cosmos and raise Deng Hua, the general who commands the sun’s true fire. Let flames blaze ten thousand fathoms high and burn across heaven and earth. Song Wuji, the Fire Essence, general of the Fire Division, also sends flames blazing ten thousand fathoms high, illuminating heaven and earth in full clarity. I have three thousand six hundred attendants at my command, as well as seventy-two generals and thirty-six command tokens. The heavenly prisons carry out punishment, and thunder and lightning set things right. Generals of the heavenly thunder, I will not fail you; do not fail me.

The people suffer drought, and rain is long delayed. Their livelihoods have lost their support, and the crops are a cause for grave concern. The earth cracks with dryness, and locusts run rampant: turn them into fine dust. In obedience to the commands of Heaven, Earth, Humanity, and Thunder, I command the true orders that govern the Five Directions. Let the Five Sacred Peaks collapse. All heavenly generals and their assisting spirits, along with the God Lord of the Blood Seal, hear the thunder’s first peal: General Lei Gong then performs his wind art, turning the locusts into fine dust.

In obedience to the commands of Heaven, Earth, Humanity, and Thunder, I command the true orders that govern the Five Directions. Let the Five Sacred Peaks collapse. All heavenly generals and their assisting spirits, along with the God Lord of the Blood Seal, hear the thunder’s first peal: General Lei Gong then raises the wind and sends down rain. Mulang, a divine general of Thunder methods, performs his art, scattering the immortal flowers of the Jade Pool and sending them flying across heaven and earth. When Mulang arrives, thunder and lightning crash forth. I now issue this command: do not linger. Yan Guang, the Nine Heavens’ Dragon-Driving Envoy, can shatter mountains and set the spirits of heaven, earth, and the underworld in motion at his summons. He calls forth the gods of thunder and shaking in heaven and earth; thunder and lightning race through the sky, darkening the sun and moon above and the earth below. Manifest your efficacy at once.

Incantation of the Five Directions

The Azure-Mystery Thunder Emperor of the Daoist methods in the East; the Thunder Emperor of the Shocking Gate of Fiery Light in the South; the Thunder Emperor of the White Slaughter and Hanging Star in the West; the Thunder Emperor of the Shaking Thunder with Loose Hair in the North; and the Thunder Emperor of Wu and Ji in the Center. Each of the Five Directions’ Thunder Emperors has a name. I command the orders of the Five Directions: let them be carried out immediately.

Incantation of Thunder’s Movement in the Nine Heavens

“Om, tan, bi, chi, □, zha, nie” and similar spell sounds are syllables meant to be recited. The original text is missing a character, so their precise meaning cannot be determined. The spell lists titles such as the Celestial Emperor, the Terrestrial Emperor, and the Human Emperor, and declares that it is carried out under the command of the Lord Celestial Emperor.

Nine Heavens Thunder-Rousing Spell

After the spell sounds, the text invokes the Yang Thunder of Heaven and the Yin Thunder of Earth, declaring that ghosts and spirits have nowhere to hide. On hearing the summons, they must descend at once. Invoking the flying fire and shooting stars, along with the might of the Lord Emperor, it commands the thunder deities to carry out the order and swiftly destroy the myriad ghosts. Words such as “hasten” and “swiftly” express commands for the deities to act without delay.

Heaven-Shaking Fierce Thunder Spell

Kang-gang, a spirit or divine general associated with the Northern Dipper, possesses supernatural power and can unleash thunderous crashes. The Five Sacred Peaks and the Four Rivers tremble, thereby bringing Heaven and Earth to rest. The spell summons them to appear at once, obey the command, and unleash fierce thunder without pause. It concludes with “Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances,” indicating that the order must be carried out immediately.

Nine Heavens Thunder-Running Spell

Above the Nine Heavens, Yang energy surges forth, while the Flying Sword Divine King, a general who commands flying swords, exerts his might in all directions. “Breaking Lu and the Three Terraces,” “Yellow Spirit Hooking Heaven,” and “Winged Virtue, Spirit of Death” are names of deities or titles of power listed in the spell. The text declares that Heaven and Earth overturn and the seas split open, then summons the thunder deities to rush forth and carry out the command.

Five Thunders Command Spell

The first section says that the Thunder of Heaven and the Sword Divine King’s might shake all directions. It repeats the divine names and commands from the preceding text, summoning the thunder deities to rush forth and carry out the order.

The second section invokes the Thunder of Heaven, the Thunder of Earth, the Divine Thunder, and the Water Thunder in turn: the Thunder of Heaven rises from the sky, the Thunder of Earth moves beneath the ground, the Divine Thunder shakes the Five Sacred Peaks, and the Water Thunder surges up from the four seas. The spell commands the might of thunder to be unleashed swiftly this year and its orders transmitted in secret. Wherever the divine talisman reaches, evil spirits dare not take root. The closing phrase, “Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances,” is a common command formula in Daoist spells, meaning that the order must be obeyed at once.

By the command of the West, the direction to which the Daoist divine generals belong, the four quarters of Heaven and Earth are brought to order. Thunderbolts surge forth, and flames descend in an instant. Deng Bowen, the divine general, descend at once and bring the four quarters of Heaven and Earth to order. “Qianluo Dana,” mysterious syllables of the incantation, strikes awe into the myriad spirits. To my left are the Celestial Soldiers, the troops of Heaven; to my right are the Six Jia, the guardian deities. Before me is the Vermilion Bird, the sacred beast of the South; behind me is the Black Tortoise, the sacred beast of the North. Envoys of the Five Directions guard my path, while three hundred thousand troops surround me in ranks upon ranks. Smash the evil spirits and drive them a thousand miles away; swiftly sweep away ill omens. The Gate of Heaven stands open and wide, and the Celestial Soldiers in formation command awe in all ten directions. The Vermilion Bird is before me, the Black Tortoise behind; envoys of the Five Directions guard my path, while three hundred thousand troops surround me in ranks upon ranks. Smash the evil spirits and swiftly sweep away ill omens. The Gate of Heaven stands open and wide; the Celestial Soldiers in formation command awe in all ten directions and strike terror into the Nine Wilds, the farthest reaches of the four quarters. If evil ghosts appear, turn them to dust.

The divine general of the West, the Sudden Flame, Deng Bowen, rides a fire dragon. Its golden eyes flash like fierce lightning; bearing flames, it scorches ten thousand miles. If unrighteous evil ghosts appear, burn them up at once and turn them to dust. Carry this out urgently in obedience to the command.

Thunderclap Incantation

The Thunderclap deity rides a dragon through black clouds. The Six Ding, guardian deities, marshal the thunder as it surges forth from the Emperor’s abode. Thunder roars like ten thousand galloping horses, shaking Heaven and Earth; fire serpents spit flames, making demons flee into hiding. On the left, the Yang energy of the Mysterious Sun sends forth the Jade Almanac, a celestial calendar or command; on the right, the Yin energy of the Mysterious Moon sends forth the Golden Register, a celestial golden book. Oars on the Five Lakes cleave the water as though tearing silk. Thunder crashes three times, and springs surge up in response. Thunder Duke, heed my summons: this command is the authority by which the thunder is called forth.

Twelve paths of heavenly thunder become thunderclaps: “Om, hei hei, [unclear], seize!” Twelve paths of earthly thunder become thunderclaps: “Om, fei fei, gu gu, seize!” Twelve paths of watery thunder become thunderclaps: “Om, wei wei, [unclear], seize!” Here, “seize” means to summon and command within the incantation.

Incantation for the Nine Heavens’ Fierce Strikes

The light of thunder is mighty, the vital essence of wind and rain. Once the thunder and lightning of the Qian Heaven are summoned, they descend at once. To save the primordial life force of the Nine Heavens, thunderbolts fly down and bring the four quarters of Heaven and Earth to order. In the East is the revered Chi Star; in the South, the Fire Wheel Bi; in the West, the White Diao Star; in the North, the Black Zhen Star. Set the wheels of the sun and moon in motion and carry out the summons.

The might of thunder and lightning is fearsome, and even the spirits of wind and rain are subject to its command. Once the thunder and lightning of Qian Heaven are summoned, they arrive at once to rescue and protect the Primordial Life-Breath of the Nine Heavens—that is, the original vital energy associated with the celestial realm—and to steady Heaven and Earth with flying thunder. In the east, the revered deity of the Ji star holds sway; in the south, the Fire Wheel Wall Star; in the west, the White Diao Star; and in the north, the Black Zhen Star. Set the wheels of the sun and moon in motion, and summon the generals and troops. Carry this out at once in accordance with the command.

Incantation for Summoning the Ten Spirits of Taiyi

The spirit and vital energy are wondrous, numinous, and radiant; their power subdues the myriad stars. The Gate of Heaven is linked to me, and the Five Sacred Mountains are linked to humankind. On my left is the Azure Dragon; on my right, the White Tiger. Summon the Ten Spirits of Taiyi—the ten deities of the Taiyi divine host—and have each declare its name. Carry this out at once.

Incantation for Writing Talismans

The celestial brush is wondrous and numinous; the spirit brush is united with the gods. Write the name of a deity, and the deity will arrive; write the name of a ghost, and the ghost’s form will vanish. Shangqing, the honored name of a Daoist celestial realm, issues its decree, turning ghosts to fine dust. The true baleful spirits of the Earth Lodge, associated with Saturn and the terrestrial underworld, descend swiftly in their numinous might. Carry this out at once in accordance with the command.

Incantation for Subduing Evil

The Five Thunder Envoys, the Five Ding Commanders, and the Great Sage Who Hangs in the Void—their thunder roars. They pay homage to Heaven, guard the Five Sacred Mountains, and bring peace to Heaven and Earth. If anyone dares disobey, command that his soul be severed. Carry this out at once in accordance with the command.

Incantation for Binding Evil

The Black-Faced Thunder Lord, the Thunder Envoys, the Five Ding Commanders, and the Great Sage Who Hangs in the Void—their thunder roars. They pay homage to Heaven, guard the Five Sacred Mountains, and bring peace to Heaven and Earth. If anyone dares disobey, command that his soul be severed. Carry this out at once in accordance with the command.

Incantation for Binding Evil

The Black-Faced Thunder Lord and the Black-Killing Heavenly Troops drive out evil in the four directions, patrolling according to the cardinal points or the seasons. The Yang spirits tread the celestial steps, following the stars and constellations in ritual. General of the Northern Dipper, protect my body. Bestow spirit and vital energy so they may endure; send the troops and generals forth with the speed of lightning. The 3,600 revered spirits of the Five Phases bear the sun and moon upon their heads, their light illuminating and dispelling the star camps. Let all the gods of the heavens be summoned by me and take up residence in my body. Carry this out at once in accordance with the command.

Incantation for the Sun

Marshal of the Sun Star, whose might shakes Fusang, the legendary place where the sun rises. Carry out the decree that thunders through Heaven and wield the power of thunder. Receive the flying talisman and summons, and swiftly obey the command.

Incantation for Jupiter

The Wood Virtue of the Year, the divine aspect of Jupiter, shakes the thunder with its might. Make all things grow and awaken the numinous energy lying dormant. Send the generals and troops swiftly forth, in accordance with the spirit script and talismanic command.

Incantation for Mars

Yinghuo, the planet Mars, acts in accordance with the law and holds supreme authority over fire. Its radiance is boundless, and it burns away spirits. Let it descend and answer as the talismanic command directs; summon it and attach it to the human body.

Incantation for Venus

The Star Lord of Great Whiteness (the divine general of Venus) governs the West. His authority is illustrious, he presides over warfare, and his bright white light shines brilliantly. He carries out the commands of Thunder, subduing and dispelling calamities.

Mercury Incantation

The Star Lord of Water Virtue, the star deity who governs the Water phase, keeps watch at dawn and carries out the commands of Thunder as ordered.

Venus Incantation

The Star Lord of Great Whiteness governs the West. His authority is illustrious, he presides over warfare, and his bright white light shines brilliantly. He carries out the commands of Thunder, subduing and dispelling calamities.

Mercury Incantation

The Star Lord of Water Virtue keeps watch at dawn and carries out the commands of Thunder as ordered. He commands the hidden water palaces of the Yin Caverns and the nine rivers and nine deep seas. Obeying talismanic decrees, he proclaims commands to destroy and diminish the evil spirits that bring calamity.

Saturn Incantation

The central Earth star deity commands the four directions, using the central yellow Qi to harmonize Heaven and Earth, and carries out the commands of the sovereign lord. Descending from Heaven, he swiftly subdues calamities.

Spirit Head Incantation

The Spirit Head at the beginning of the celestial conjunction takes its place in the middle of the sky. Where its radiance shines, mountains collapse and stone is pierced. Its supernatural power is vast, and it swiftly comes before the ritual altar.

Spirit Tail Incantation

The Spirit Tail at the end of the celestial conjunction shakes mountains and rivers with its might. Black Qi surges and swirls, filling the nine heavens. I now summon it silently; the spirit’s valiant power will naturally appear.

Purple Qi Incantation

The purple star, revealed through the Dao’s Qi, descends and brings boundless blessings. The true command of Thunder shakes Heaven and Earth, subduing ghosts and evil spirits and driving away misfortune. Wherever the divine light shines, it reaches up to the distant, mysterious heavens and summons the spirits to descend.

Moon’s Hidden Adversary Incantation

The Moon’s Hidden Adversary, an ominous star in traditional astrology, is as fierce as a comet and shakes the nine heavens. The divine sword sweeps down, destroying ghosts and evil spirits in the depths of the Nine Springs. Carry out the commands of Thunder; do not linger.

Turning the Dipper Incantation

The seven stars of the Northern Dipper awe the four directions and bring peace to the spirits. The seven stars of the Northern Dipper: the Perfected of Orthodox Unity shines down and descends from the distant, mysterious heavens.

Moon’s Hidden Adversary Incantation

The Moon’s Hidden Adversary is as fierce as a comet and shakes the nine heavens. The divine sword sweeps down, destroying ghosts and evil spirits in the depths of the Nine Springs. Carry out the commands of Thunder; do not linger.

Turning the Dipper Incantation

The seven stars of the Northern Dipper: the Perfected of Orthodox Unity. The seven stars of the Northern Dipper: Greedy Wolf and Great Gate. The seven stars of the Northern Dipper: the Star Lord of Literary Song. The seven stars of the Northern Dipper: they shake Heaven and Earth above. The seven stars of the Northern Dipper: Thunder roars. The seven stars of the Northern Dipper: they issue the commands of the Five Thunders. The seven stars of the Northern Dipper: they spread a net across Heaven and Earth. The seven stars of the Northern Dipper: they protect the sick and grant them long life.

The Seven Stars of the Northern Dipper obey commands and act. They are the power through which Heaven brings forth human beings, and they move in alignment with the Five Stars (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water).

The Seven Stars can summon thunder and drive away ghosts and demons. They tread the Dipper constellation and reach straight to Heaven’s Gate. They bring stability to Heaven and Earth and to the four quarters.

Hurry and obey, as swiftly as the law requires.

Incantation of the Six Jia Divine Generals

The Six Jia Thunder Lords command awe and guard the four quarters of Heaven and Earth. The Six Ding Divine Generals subdue evil forces in the sea; they are the honored deities among the host of Six Ding spirits. Heaven and Earth grow dark, mountains and rivers tremble, and troops and generals are mobilized throughout the Six Directions.

The great sage between Heaven and Earth is the Six Jia Divine General. Thunder roars across the Yellow Heaven. The divine generals travel along the thirty-six paths in the sky and transform as they come and go through the thirty-six directions.

When the gods issue a command, it must be carried out at once. Hurry and obey, as swiftly as the law requires.

Heaven-Shaking Incantation

The stars of the Dipper and Ox mansions, the vital energies of the Willow and Ghost mansions: the Twenty-Eight Mansions—the twenty-eight regions into which the sky was divided in ancient times—stir the celestial signs and descend. Destroy evil spirits and cut down ghosts and demons; restore the light and make bodies and spirits manifest. When the gods issue a command, it must be carried out at once. Hurry and obey, as swiftly as the law requires.

Heaven-Shaking Incantation

The stars of the Dipper and Ox mansions, the vital energies of the Willow and Ghost mansions. The Twenty-Eight Mansions stir the celestial signs and descend, destroying evil spirits and cutting down ghosts and demons, restoring the light and making bodies and spirits manifest.

Set the sun and moon in motion; gather and marshal ten thousand troops and generals. The commanders and officers of all the heavens must obey the order. Hurry and obey, as swiftly as the law requires.

Incantation for Settling the Spirits

By the decree of the presiding deity and the Celestial Emperor, cleanse the four quarters of Heaven and Earth. The Twenty-Eight Mansions stretch across the sky, and the Seven Stars take their places. Heaven and Earth open and close; the Northern Dipper turns, and the Celestial Wolf flies.

The lords of Kan and Li—Water and Fire—lead the heavenly troops forward in formation. To the left is the Celestial Covenant; to the right is Celestial Balance. The troops and their assistants of the Thunder Department must not linger; they must act at once.

Hurry and obey, as swiftly as the law requires.

General Command Incantation

The Yellow Spirit gathers the assembled generals. As its command goes forth, Heaven shakes. The Eleven Great Luminaries, governed by strict discipline, each receive their orders, attack evil forces, and act as commanded.

Those who disobey will be punished. May all the gods carefully receive and carry out the command.

Incantation of the Star Marshal

The Supreme Unity Star Marshal, commander of the stars, has a reputation that shakes the Nine Heavens. Receiving the earth-shaking command, he transforms and moves according to the natural way. At his call, wind and rain arise, and mountains, rocks, and rivers tremble.

The divine general sweeps across the sky and fights with courage; flying dragons race through the heavens. The earth shakes, and thunder booms in the ears. Rahu and Ketu, celestial bodies in Daoist tradition and traditional astrology, clash with one another as Water and Fire surge and churn.

The comet and the broom star muster their power; Venus rises through the Nine Heavens… Receiving the earth-shaking command, he transforms and moves according to the natural way. At his call, wind and rain arise, and mountains, rocks, and rivers tremble.

They whirl and dance across the sky like flying dragons, racing in all directions. The earth shakes and thunder roars overhead; Rahu, Ketu, and the other celestial bodies clash with one another as water and fire surge.

The Broom Star and the Comet rise up with fierce force, while Venus and Mars blaze across the four directions. Jupiter and Saturn set transformations in motion, issuing commands from the hidden and mysterious realms. Carry out the order at once, in accordance with the rules.

The Marshal of the Sun Star, who commands the stars of the sun, holds authority and supports Fusang. The sun’s disc shines across ten thousand miles, its radiance reaching throughout the east. The true talisman rises, and flames scatter in every direction.

Jupiter, the Star of the Yearly Cycle, governs the east and presides over the Zhen trigram, the eastern direction among the Bagua (Eight Trigrams), and the season of Awakening of Insects. It sets the Thunder Department in motion. The true talisman rises, and the power of thunder surges forth.

Yinghuo, the planet Mars, administers punishment and speeds along in its chariot. Its might commands the Three Realms and inspires fear in ghosts and spirits. The true talisman rises, and blazing fire rushes swiftly onward.

Taibai, the planet Venus, crosses the River of Heaven and patrols the seas in all eight directions. Its radiance spreads everywhere, driving away the calamities of weapons and warfare. The true talisman rises, and wicked spirits lose their vital energy.

The Star Lord of Water Virtue watches over the dawn and commands the water spirits, including the dragon gods of the Three Rivers, the Nine Rivers, lakes, and seas. The true talisman rises, and floodwaters surge toward the four directions.

The central Earth Lodge commands the Qi of Yellow Origin. The Emperor Lord determines the span of life and sets the Four Forms, symbols of the four directions or seasons, each in its proper order. The true talisman rises; the earth shakes and the mountains tremble.

The Divine Head Rahu is honored by the Five Emperors. At its angry glance, mountains collapse. The true talisman rises, and the earth’s Qi surges upward.

The Divine Tail Ketu sends black Qi surging into the sky, obscuring the sun and moon; its divine might cannot be resisted. The true talisman rises, and thunder and rain follow.

Tianyi Purple Qi, a Daoist star name, is as honored as the luminaries of the Dao. It can resolve harmful clashes, dispel evil, and turn aside calamities and distress. The true talisman rises, and the great rite is put into effect.

The Broom Star, the Comet, and the shooting stars display divine valor and power. They cry out toward the south, their voices rumbling like thunder. The true talisman rises, and rocks split as mountains collapse.

Qingyang is compassionate, a revered deity who examines and issues commands. An edict sends down talismanic orders, releasing the influence of the Ten Spirits. Once the true talisman has been proclaimed, their wrath quickly subsides.

None may disobey; all must act in accordance with the edict. The Emperor of the Nine Heavens issues the command, requiring all the gods to carry it out. I wield the true talisman to strike at the stars.

Their Qi runs counter to its proper course and collides, setting the force of slaughter in motion on every side. An edict is now being issued: each must remain at their appointed starry gate. By urgent command, so ordered.

Divine Incantation of the Flying Dipper

Supreme Taiqing (the pure realm where Daoist deities dwell), Mysterious Origin Emperor Lord (a revered Daoist deity): please preserve my life and protect my vital essence, and command that my three souls be gathered in. Let a numinous talisman guard my souls, and make the ghosts and spirits appear at once.

Command that I pay homage at the Heavenly Gate (the abode of the Heavenly Emperor), and guide me across into the Mysterious Gate (the path of Daoist practice). Let me ascend to the Jade Court, meet and serve the High Perfected (high-ranking immortals who have attained the Dao), and travel freely, with clear passage and no obstruction. May I respectfully present a report of my sincerity and carry out the Jade Emperor’s edict. By urgent command, let it be done.

Incantation for Taking the Talisman of the Five Spirits

Within the Mysterious Palace of the Jade Office (a dwelling of the immortals), purple Qi first arises. Through inward cultivation, let the three souls be refined and Tai Guang (one of the souls) be at peace. The Divine Treasure dwells in the Jade Chamber and lives together with me. Do not move recklessly; keep watch over the Yellow Court (the dwelling place of the spirits within the human body). The Great Numinous Spirit guards and protects me. If I wish to soar to the heavens, my body can reach Yuqing (the Daoist heaven called the Clear Subtlety Heaven). When hungry or thirsty, I swallow and drink the Jade Essence (the crystalline essence symbolizing the energy of the immortal realm). By urgent command, so ordered.

Incantation for Flying with the Spirit

The sky is bright and the air clear; the three lights of sun, moon, and stars shine brilliantly. In the Golden Chamber and Jade Hall, the Five Zhi (immortal herbs) grow luxuriantly. The purple canopy of the Mysterious Spirit shines upon my body. Jade youths and maidens summon the spirits for me. The Nine Emperors (nine Heavenly Emperors) appear together and travel alongside the three lights. I am able to ride beneath a splendid canopy and ascend to the Heavenly Emperor’s court. By urgent command, so ordered.

Incantations for Praying to the Thunder Court, Averting Calamities, and Commanding Spirits: Various incantations that call upon the power of thunder to avert calamities and command divine generals.

Incantation of the Yang Dipper and Celestial Dipper Pattern

The mysterious Dipper Pace, the orientations and steps traced by the moving stars of the Northern Dipper, encompasses the changes of the twelve double-hours. Treading the Celestial Dipper, one manifests awe-inspiring power. The breath stirs faintly, like drifting clouds, changing nine times in response to the patterns of Heaven. By understanding these changes, one can determine good and ill fortune; by joining with the vast Dao, one can also discern their distinctions. Enter the star positions of the Dipper Lodge and pass beyond Heaven’s Gate. Align the practice with the six yang pitches among the ancient twelve tones, proceeding according to the Heavenly Stems such as Jia and Yi. Tread across the position of Tianying and ride upon Tianren; even a cold, deep abyss can be crossed as though it were level ground. Pass Tianzhu, encircle and guard Tianxin, cross over from there, and ascend to Tianqin. Lean on Tianfu, approach Tianchong, enter Tiannei, then emerge through Tianpeng.

The Way of the Dipper Pace is unobstructed, with firmness and gentleness complementing one another. The people’s blessings and prosperity can thus be passed down to later generations. Set forth from a dark and remote place, and endure for ten million years. After chanting once, walk the six positions; chant nine times and walk three circuits, and life may be prolonged for three hundred years. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation of the Yin Dipper Pace

The sun and moon shine bright, and Heaven and Earth are joined in harmony. The human way flourishes, while the way of ghosts declines. The Way of the Dipper Pace is unobstructed, with firmness and gentleness complementing one another; the people’s blessings and prosperity are passed down to later generations. Set forth from a dark and remote place, and endure for ten million years. After chanting once, walk the six positions; chant nine times and walk three circuits, and life may be prolonged for three hundred years. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation of the Yin Dipper Pace

The sun and moon shine bright, and Heaven and Earth are joined in harmony. The human way flourishes, while the way of ghosts declines. I enter Tiannei through the position of Tianpeng, pass Tianchong, and retreat after encountering Tianfu. Then I return to Tianqin, facing Tianxin; Tianzhu, Tianren, and Tianying are brought together. With pure and upright spiritual intent, I proceed through the steps of the Dipper Pace. The human way flows freely, while the way of ghosts is blocked. Every kind of evil Qi and every sort of impurity must keep away. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Summoning the Thunder Deity of the East

Thunder Deity of the eastern Zhen direction, true lord of thunder and lightning: summon the wind with a low rumble, and command Juluo Zhen. The fierce wolf-fanged officer drives a chariot and wheels of fire. Xuhuo Bowen charges ahead like a thunderclap; his radiant might roars and shakes Heaven and Earth. The marshal and great general break up evil forces and subdue ghosts and spirits. He can clear the skies and bring down rain, punish wicked shrines, and destroy demons. He rises into Heaven and splits the earth with thunder, his might shaking the spirits of the Dipper stars. Yaoling Taihua, sacred radiance and wondrous spirit, descend to my ritual altar from the four seas and the realm of Dongyang. The Three Pure Ones have issued their decree; the command of the Jade Pivot is now in force. The revered deities of the Five Sacred Peaks shake the mountains and command wind and rain, churning the seas and driving the clouds. By this talismanic command, I summon the marshal. May the Jade Scepter of the Primordial Beginning rescue and protect all living beings; descend through the gate of Xun. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Summoning the Thunder Deity of the South

The luminous radiance of the south shines brightly, and Bingjiuluo Zhen (a title of the Thunder God) appears. The True Essence Yang Spirit (a deity of the Thunder Department) brings warm, blazing light to illuminate the abodes of the spirits. Thunder from the five directions booms, as Shi’a Xiongsheng (a title of the Thunder God) utters a mighty roar. The lightning shifts and commands the local deities of the nine provinces. Holy light shines upon all living beings and descends at the Xun Gate (the gate of the southeast). Act at once in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation for Summoning the Thunder Gods of the South

The luminous radiance of the south shines brightly, and Bingjiuluo Zhen appears. The True Essence Yang Spirit brings warm, blazing light to illuminate the abodes of the spirits. Thunder from the five directions booms, as Shi’a Xiongsheng utters a mighty roar. The lightning shifts and commands the local deities of the nine provinces. Holy light manifests its might, unfurling a vast wheel of fire. Clouds of fire rise ten thousand feet high; eight chariots with eight wheels arrive, the conveyances of the Thunder Department’s divine generals. Thunderbolts surge forward, carrying out the command of the August Heaven (the celestial emperor). Dutian Zhenlei (a deity of the Thunder Department) and Yuchen Dongling (a divine title) manifest together. The water deities are bound and subdued, and fire demons are destroyed without a trace. Chunqiu Zhenjun and Zixu Tongshen (divine titles) descend; the great general who smites evil carries out the command at once. Act at once in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation for Summoning the Thunder Gods of the West

The divine generals are commanded to speed here, and Liujin Taihua (a title of the Thunder God) appears. Duobo Zhen’er and Xuzhi Guiye (titles of Thunder Gods) descend. The three-five iron-faced divine generals ride with torches and chariots of fire, treading the Hualuo astral steps (a Thunder Department ritual step pattern or star designation) as they come. Thunderbolts surge like snakes. The generals are fearsome, with tiger heads, as lightning and rosy clouds streak across the sky. The envoy in the Dipper rides with a thunder array and thunder chariot, devouring demons and attacking evil forces. Act at once in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation for Summoning the Thunder Gods of the North

Heavenly thunder rumbles faintly, and dragons and tigers cross paths. Between Taihua and Taiji (divine or Thunder Department titles), lightning darts forth. Sand and stones fly; seas churn and clouds tumble. The thunder chariot devours demons and attacks evil forces. Act at once in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation for Summoning the Thunder Gods of the North

Heavenly thunder rumbles faintly, and dragons and tigers cross paths. Between Taihua and Taiji, lightning darts forth. Sand and stones fly; seas churn and clouds tumble. They can clear the skies and bring rain; they can also gather in the Po and Hun (the bodily and ethereal souls, which Daoism regards as constituting a person’s spiritual life). From the divine ranks of Penglai, the High Minister of Wind and Rain descends. The thunderbolt axe and Haoweng Lingzun (a title of a Thunder Department deity) display their divine might. Mulang Zhenyun (a title of the Thunder God) drives out evil and smites wickedness; Dianmu Danhou and the Thunder God surge forward. The wind wheel turns, thunder roars, and exalted divinities ten thousand feet high appear. General Xialei (a title of a Thunder Department general) shatters demonic barriers and subdues evil spirits. Act at once in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation for Summoning the Thunder Gods of the Center

The Holy Spirit’s divine might is fierce, shaking Heaven and Earth. The Three Origins, the Seven Luminaries, the Nine Powers, the Eight Spirits, and the other gods are all mighty divine generals. There are also the Wolf-Fang Fierce Officials, the Flowing-Gold Fire Bells, the Great Immortal Jade Morning, and the Lords of the Six Spiritual Powers. As they scatter through the air, their radiance blazes; they churn the seas and gather clouds. They tread the Dipper’s stars in prescribed steps, symbolically mobilizing the powers of Heaven, then punish evil and destroy demons and monsters. The Iron-Faced Five Thunders and the General Who Breaks the Enemy’s Ranks all obey their commands.

The black-faced Wolf-Fang holds a volcanic brazier of fire. Flowing golden light stretches for ten thousand miles, and thunderbolts race forth. The Jade Pivot issues its command; the Fire-Cavern General carries it out, shaking mountains, gathering clouds, breaking demonic obstructions, and subduing evil spirits. The Lord on High has given the order: carry it out at once, swiftly and in accordance with the statutes.

Incantation for Summoning the Barbarian Thunder Gods

This passage consists mainly of spell sounds. Many of its characters are phonetic transcriptions or specialized words used in incantations, so they are difficult to translate word for word into ordinary language. It ends: “Swiftly and in accordance with the statutes.”

Prayer for Driving Away Thunder

The Lord of Toxic Power who wards off the Qian direction commands awe in the realm of Luo. The Eight Immortals wield battle-axes, symbols of authority, and carry out the will of the Lord on High and the Five Spirits. The Great Profound falls upon the landscape, and the Seven Gods guard the courtyard. The Yellow Perfected One reveals talismans and registers, sending light in every direction and casting forth fire bells. The divine tiger roars, and poisonous winds surge in tumult.

The Purple Bo and the Two Principles, together with the Four Tassels, gaze up toward the light; the primal source of the Nine Heavens and the vital energies of the Four Heavens converge. Within, the original Qi of mystery envelops and protects; without, generals, commanders, and troops stand guard. They wield power on the left and hold the line on the right, attacking with wind and fighting with fire. They command the slaughter of ten thousand demons and the destruction of a thousand kinds of monsters.

Once the Golden Perfected One’s seal of suppression is activated, evil spirits vanish without a trace. The might of Northern Feng, the underworld realm of Daoist gods, descends, and all it suppresses are overthrown. I bear the true text, the sacred talismanic script, and command the Five Spirits. The Three Origins unite with the True Lord and answer the Emperor’s decree. The Great Emperor of the Upper Subtlety reports upward to the Three Pure Ones. Swiftly and in accordance with the statutes.

The text that follows again says, “May the South Pole be overturned … swiftly and in accordance with the statutes.” Its general meaning remains the same: bearing the true text and commanding the Five Spirits, it calls down the might of Northern Feng and reports upward to the Three Pure Ones.

Incantation of the Southern Pole Fire Bell

Southern Pole Fire Bell, Heavenly Soldiers of the Great One, mighty warriors of the Nine Heavens …

Five hundred female soldiers wear celestial crowns, their bodies blazing with red flames. With a righteous heart, I destroy evil and drive out spirits and monsters. The divine beings of the four directions patrol all around, circling the city as they keep watch. The Eight Might Gods, the Belly-Poison God, and the Elder of a Thousand Eyes guard the place together. They drive away every kind of demon and apparition, laying a heavenly net so that evil gods are struck with fear and spirits have nowhere to flee. They wield weapons of execution and wear crowns of the Seven Stars. They darken the sun and moon, shake Heaven and Earth, and shine their light across the world, leaving even the most cunning, swift-fleeing monsters nowhere to hide.

They command the Local Shrine Officers, who oversee the affairs of local altars, and manage the registers of all spirits. They can shatter the Five Sacred Peaks and topple Kunlun. They glare in fury and slay demons; the gods of Heaven come to their aid, with thunder and lightning in their wake. If evil influences enter the earth, they are utterly eradicated; if they enter the water, even the deepest abyss is cleared. Weapons and blades all vanish from sight. Mountains are burned to ashes, and waters boiled into scalding broth. What god would not fear them? What ghost or monster would dare stand against them?

Three thousand Marses, portents of calamity and fire, and eighty thousand fire disasters are gathered up and confined within the official residence. Then they scatter away to the ends of the earth, like stars dispersed across the sky. A vast blaze rises ten thousand fathoms high, its flames spreading across the heavens. In an instant it stretches ten thousand miles and burns through the Three Thousand Worlds. Even the seas dry up, and weapons turn to dust. This is the law decreed by the Supreme God; the orthodox law shows no favoritism. Fire can melt gold into water and iron into mud. When it is used to extinguish you demons, who would dare approach? By the Supreme God’s command, carry out the order at once.

Incantation for Demolishing Temples and Summoning Thunder

The August Heaven gave me life; the August Earth bears me. The August Heaven nurtures me; the August Earth raises me. The ritual seal is in my hand, and the incantation issues from my mouth. I wear Tiangang, the divine name of the Northern Dipper constellation, upon my head and tread upon the Northern Dipper. Wind Master and Rain Master, heed my command; Thunder Lord, roar in fury. I shall demolish evil temples and drive out the gods within them. Gods and ghosts must flee at once. The force of thunderbolts descends, with lightning close behind. Gods and ghosts are slain and reduced to dust; demons and evil influences are eradicated forever. By the Jade Emperor’s command, I shall sweep away the gates of the ghosts. Heaven and Earth grow dark, the sun and moon lose their light, and spirits, evil ghosts, and bandits have nowhere to hide. Destroy them at once and wipe out every trace of demonic energy. Urgently obey and carry out this decree.

Incantation for Sealing the Gates of an Evil Temple

Lord Gongming, Lord Gongming, manifest your numinous power on Mount Qingcheng. The Most High (a revered Daoist deity) has issued a decree, and the Celestial Master’s command has been carried out. If the Master betrays me, may the sun and moon lose their radiance; if I betray the Master, may thunder strike me down. I make this oath with the Master, pledging that together we will save all living beings. May the heavenly gods, the earthly deities, and all beings in the human and ghost realms come and obey. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation of the Four Administrators of the Dipper

The Northern Dipper’s starlight is numinous and efficacious; it commands and governs the myriad spirits. The Greedy Wolf Star presides over baleful affairs and can devour ghosts and absorb their vital essence. The Great Gate Star shines brilliantly, illuminating all things and making them clearly visible. The Stored Prosperity Star surges like rolling clouds and commands the celestial troops. The Rosy Glow Star and the Literary Song Star shine brightly, illuminating the Upright Chastity Star. The Martial Song Star stands in awesome majesty, guarding the south, assisted by the Perfected Ones and the Auxiliary Star. The Great Sage of the Celestial Dipper and the revered Star of the Army-Breaker also display their power. May true light descend everywhere and help you manifest numinous might. Wherever the Dipper’s Ladle Star points, travel ten thousand li in a single day. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Dispatching Talismans

When the celestial gods are commanded to carry out a talisman, it is the natural working of the Dao of Heaven; when the earthly gods are commanded to carry it out, they can destroy ghosts and spirits. Know that if you are not a true god, you must not impersonate my true god; know that if you are not a spirit, you must not impersonate my spirit. Those who withdraw must not be harmed; those who resist will be destroyed. Throughout the heavens and across the earth, follow the talisman’s command, reveal your true form, and make the consequences of cause and effect manifest. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Minor Incantation for Subduing Demons of Marici

“Namorotatarayaye tayetaci aluo tuluo geluo sazuoluo sanbamuoladie luozan younou, shali hashali hasa xiaozha□liba boye ba saliba ya bateluo ya bateluo□ ya bala geluo ya yeye xiebi suohe.” Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

This is a demon-subduing incantation rendered phonetically, syllable by syllable. It is mainly used to invoke divine power and drive away baleful influences.

Oath Incantation of the Heavenly General Xin

A valiant divine general of the Thunder Department, whose might commands the Nine Heavens. You enter and leave the Three Realms—the heavens, the human world, and the netherworld—and loyally and diligently assist the Imperial Lord. You can manifest a body tens of thousands of zhang tall. Known as a revered deity of the Thunder Department, you command the various Thunder Offices. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

The mighty generals and divine officers amid the thunder guard the Nine Heavens with their formidable power. They move between the realms of Heaven, Earth, and humanity, loyally and diligently assisting the imperial lords. They can manifest in bodies ten thousand zhang tall and are honored as gods of the Thunder Department. They command the various thunder offices, as well as the gods of wind, rain, thunderclaps, and lightning, and the many mighty yakshas. In accordance with Heaven’s mandate, they assist the Venerable Lords of the Five Thunders.

By the Jade Emperor’s decree, I can rescue people in this world. Whoever recites and upholds this incantation will see me appear at once. If summoned to Heaven, I will pay my respects to the imperial lords and report to them. If summoned to the underworld, I will go straight to its palaces. If summoned to the Water Court, the waves across the four seas will surge. If summoned to assist in the world of the living, I will immediately rescue its people. If summoned to seize spirits and monsters, destroy the lairs of ghosts, or command generals and their troops to deploy, they will all swiftly manifest their power. If summoned to drive out illness, the sick will find peace; if summoned to deliver the dead, they will ascend to a higher realm.

I will remain by your side always, and together we will become servants of the Jade Emperor. If Heaven’s laws are violated, nine generations of ancestors will be punished. If I fail you, the sun and moon in Heaven will grow dim, the springs beneath the earth will run dry, and no plants or trees will grow. I will be condemned forever to roam as a ghost in the netherworld, unable to pay homage in Shangqing, the pure realm where Daoist exalted deities dwell. I will descend on Ren and Gui days, and those who uphold this incantation must be diligent. Offer pure tea and jujube broth, and burn peachwood incense; then I will manifest at your side. Be at ease and do not be afraid. Together we have made a great vow: to save all living beings. Hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Oath Incantation of Envoy Zhang

Envoy Luan of the Three Heavens, a divine general of the Thunder Department, is swift and mighty. He assists the commander, raises thunder, and subdues spirits and monsters. I make this vow and burn incense in a censer filled with a hundred fragrant aromatics. May you descend at once to my side and help me display your numinous power. If I break this vow even slightly, let Heaven’s punishment fall upon me. If you disobey my command, may you fall forever into delusion. By the command of the Supreme Lord, I travel through mist and raise the clouds. Descend on a Jiaxu day, record the document, and present it to the Heavenly Court. If you break the vow, may disaster befall nine generations of your ancestors, and may good fortune never come to them. Hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation of the Sworn General

You are the essence-energy of the celestial realm, and I am the numinous energy of the earthly realm. Separate your essence-energy and join it with my form. Once we have merged, we can become gods and spirits. You may go forth to raise wind and bring rain, or return within the body and enable people to live forever. You must obey my commands and serve my summons. If you defy me, you will suffer the punishment of wind-blades; if I defy you, my rank will not rise. Messenger Zhang, listen carefully, and never forget this covenant. Act swiftly in accordance with the law!

Incantation for Transformation

My head bears the round sky above it, and you obey my summons. If you defy me, you will suffer the punishment of wind-blades; if I defy you, my rank will not rise. Messenger Zhang, listen carefully, and never forget this covenant. Act swiftly in accordance with the law!

Incantation for Transformation

My head bears the round sky, and my feet tread upon the square earth. The nine Qi (nine kinds of vital energy) form my cap and sash, woven together into garments. The sun becomes a round image, and the moon becomes a bright, rounded radiance. I wear the Big Dipper (the seven stars of the northern constellation) upon my back and carry the Six Jia and Nine Chapters (names for Daoist divine generals and talismanic registers). The River Chief (a star deity) assists me on the left, while I lean upon the Celestial Lattice (a star deity) on the right. Thus I can subdue all kinds of evil and cunning beings and dispel ill fortune. Act swiftly in accordance with the law!

Incantation Inviting General Tianpeng

I respectfully pray to and take refuge in General Tianpeng, the Daoist guardian deity. May this mighty god, who destroys hordes of demons, descend. His majesty is like that of the Kui dragon; as he enters the ritual ground, his brilliance shines forth and his awe shakes heaven and earth. The lords of the Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions and the great gods of the Thirty-Six Divisions accompany him. He wields a golden sword to slay demons and holds a precious seal to dispel calamity and evil. He swings his battle-axe to smash the underworld and shakes the celestial palace with the peal of the Emperor’s Bell. He drives thunder and lightning in their courses and leads a vast army of armored celestial troops bearing spears and halberds. The Fire Officials of the Southern Dipper purge poison and harm; the Water Deities of the Northern Dipper eradicate disaster. He subdues the great demons of injustice in the Nine Heavens and sweeps away plague and calamity in the Ten Directions. When he grows wrathful, even the sun and moon lose their light; with a single breath, mountains and rivers seem to boil. Purple Qi (purple clouds symbolizing divine authority) rides across the heavens, and three hundred thousand celestial troops come to his defense. Act swiftly in accordance with the law!

Incantation for Destroying Demons

The Qi of the Dark Heavens spreads across the sky, while purple clouds like the Milky Way wheel overhead. Mysterious Qi seems to boil within a cauldron. Purple Qi rides across the heavens, and three hundred thousand celestial troops come to its defense. Act swiftly in accordance with the law!

The Northern Heaven stretches across the sky, while purple clouds swirl beside the Celestial River, the Milky Way. The wondrous primordial Qi, the vital energy at the source of the cosmos, illuminates the Three Mornings—the sun, moon, and stars of the heavens. Vermilion clouds shine upon the Purple Tenuity, the abode of the Celestial Emperor. The heavens unfurl their numinous radiance, and clouds billow high above. Divine lamps illuminate the Longgeng Star, Venus, as the celestial constellations emit bright light. High clouds encircle the mountains in the four directions, while mysterious vital essence covers the eight quarters. The Three Pure Energies open the lofty gates of heaven, and the palace gates of the Orchid Towers swing open one after another. The Golden City shines upon Jade Clarity, the highest heaven honored in Daoism. Splendid clouds reveal the solemn grandeur of the celestial capital. The winds of the eight directions surge through the air, and fierce beasts race upon the clouds.

The Three Cavern palaces, celestial seats corresponding to the Three Caverns of Daoist scriptures and methods, are filled with wondrous sights, as perfected beings—immortals who have attained the Dao—come and go among them. Above are thousand-mile essences, numinous spirits of unfathomable clarity and towering majesty. Taiyi, the exalted celestial deity, devises plans, gathers and captures, and wields divine might. Zhengyi, the Daoist system of registers and offices, receives the mandate of flourishing and long life, and summons the myriad spirits to return. The perfected immortals Gongzi Yiji Yuan, Dongyang Chongxuanji, and others enter and leave the profound and mysterious realms. Once the first stage of ingesting elixirs is complete, one becomes one with the Dao. Dragon Qi rises and continues to coil in the air. The Seven Radiances unite with the Spirit King; swift winds turn, opening a ladder to the mysterious. With agile form, one ascends to the Mysterious Ford, the crossing to heaven. Flying immortals pass over lofty ridges, no longer relying on a ladder to reach the sky. Bearing staves, they enter the ranks of the divine troops, their crystalline garments gleaming. The Qi of the netherworld meets the clouds, and the scene of ascent is joined to divine power. On the clear peaks, immortals gather; splendid sights converge and rise straight into the sky. Golden blossoms encircle the chariot in the void, where an immortal elder stands with solemn bearing. Myriad chariots spread through the void, and dense clouds gather at the mysterious skylights. The divine lords meet with the Lord of Radiance, whose title among the Central Kings is Nurturer of Light. As radiance condenses, spirits are first born from it; the Nine Perfected merge into a pair. The wondrous scene opens into pure light. Following the abundant numinous Qi, it reveals the source of the spirit, while the Muddy Pellet, the upper Dantian within the head, releases the light of the Primordial Beginning.

Pearl-like radiance shines steadily upon the Crimson Palace, the inner palace of the heart, as primordial Yang Qi joins with the Gate of Life, where the body’s vital energy is rooted. Three spirits, accompanied by purple youths, restrain and direct the myriad things, guiding them back to the proper path. Beside the palace towers, they keep watch at luminous windows; light and shadow face one another, opening a realm of perfect clarity. Radiance shines toward the abode of the Three Spirits, filling and extending it so that it may guide all beings and return them from old age to childhood. Swift winds and dazzling brilliance shake the nine heavens. Pure Qi circulates and penetrates the Cinnabar Chamber, the inner palace where one cultivates spirit and refines Qi. Clouds wind around the horizon, their shifting forms reflected in the sleeping chamber. The spirit travels through the netherworld and realms of empty transformation, finally returning to meet the King of Divine Empyrean, the exalted deity of the thunder heavens.

The immortal path delights in the enduring life; the ghostly path ends in calamity. People should seek the exalted immortal path and not allow the ghostly path to flourish. The hymn joins with Heaven’s primordial Qi, while Jia Sheng recites the Primordial Correct Chapter. Divine Wisdom receives the command to lead the Vermilion Troops, and the Five Emperors are clad in the frost-like authority of winter. Bearing banners, they subdue the myriad demons and guide all sentient beings up to the peaks of heaven. The ritual procession advances slowly, while the luminous scripture inspects the Northern Feng, the northern realm of the dead. Practitioners embody the natural Great Dao; vanquishing demons and destroying evil is their merit. Riding upon radiance and urging the mighty winds, they endure the heavenly tribulations without end.

True visions arise in the wondrous realm; at a glance, lights and shadows dart in the four directions. When the mind joins with the true vision, one can draw near to sublime treasures. One spreads one’s wings in flight, hoping to meet the mysterious realm; discerning the depths of its mysteries, one’s heart nevertheless turns to compassion. With sharp cries, shouts, and commands, one passes through the nine gates of heaven in an instant. One gathers primordial Qi and returns it to its beginning, uniting with the subtle radiance of the profound mystery. The Nine Perfected descend, radiance comes to rest, tier upon tier of barriers opens, and a hundred streams of Yang Qi flow freely. Thunder rolls forth amid lightning and hail, while the Five Phase luminaries race against one another. Holding a tally to command numinous Qi, one acts with undivided concentration.

The battle is over, and the demons can no longer block the way; the fierce tiger displays its mighty power. The Demon Master destroys the monsters, and the copper-headed divine generals drive out evil. The generals ascend to heaven to annihilate ghosts and monsters. Pure white radiance shines down, and the wicked are shattered one after another. The myriad spirits bow in reverence, and all the sages take refuge. Those who violate the laws of the Great Dao are beheaded at once. Tianpeng, Heisha, and the other generals follow Heaven’s mandate and uphold the true way. The Three Celestial Enclosures’ upright Qi and the Qi of the True and Correct shine high and bright like the sun. Mountains and rivers are overturned, and the sun and moon lose their light; fierce cries and flying divine beasts are shaken down and destroyed. The Five Emperors stand in ranks, girded with sashes in the divine realm, while the myriad numinous beings receive their titles in Taiwei, the celestial enclosure where the Celestial Emperor dwells. The High and Exalted Deities patrol the Cinnabar Cliffs, and the perfected immortals of the Eight Radiances ride their chariots toward the gates of heaven. Having witnessed the wondrous transformations of the Cavernous Origin, the numinous beings turn toward my Dao and come to pay homage.

With urgent haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

“Om, chi, hum, zha” are syllables in the incantation. Heaven and Earth are originally clear and pure; foul Qi should dissipate, opening a passage to the Cinnabar Cliffs, an immortal realm or grotto-heaven in Daoist usage. The Eight Sacred Sights enter and leave through the Gate of Heaven on their chariots. Let me contemplate the transformations revealed by the Grotto-Origin, the profound and mysterious source, so that the Great Dao to which I return may welcome the descent of the gods. This command must be carried out at once, in accordance with the law.

Let the foul Qi of Heaven and Earth disperse, revealing within the grotto a mysterious realm of emptiness and clarity. Let its radiance illuminate the Great Mystery, the vast and profound celestial realm. Let the august spirits of the eight directions each hold their appointed place. In the east, the Lord of Azure Qi, General Yang Fang, and the deity of Wood virtue command ninety thousand troops and the Azure Dragon General. Bearing azure banners as their signal, they patrol the east, destroying the azure plague Qi and the essence of rotten wood. In the south, the Lord of Vermilion Qi, General Wang Xiang, and the deity of Fire virtue command thirty thousand troops and the Fire Dragon General. Bearing vermilion banners as their signal, they patrol the south, sweeping away the vermilion plague Qi and evil essences within the flames. In the west, the Lord of White Qi, General Zhou Liang, and the deity of Metal virtue command seventy thousand troops and the White Dragon General. Bearing white banners as their signal, they patrol the west, driving off the white plague Qi and suppressing the essence of dead metal. In the north, the august spirit of the north, the Lord of Qi Qi, General Zhang Gang, and the deity of Water virtue command fifty thousand troops and the Black Dragon General. Bearing black banners as their signal, they patrol the north, cutting down the black plague Qi and burning up foul essences.

In the northeast, the Lord of Azure-Black Qi and General Yuan Yi command the forces. Bearing azure-black banners as their signal, the divine troops patrol the northeast, destroying ghostly essences formed from azure-black Qi. In the southeast, the Lord of Azure-Vermilion Qi and General Gao Guang command the forces. Bearing azure-vermilion banners as their signal, the divine troops patrol the southeast, destroying ghost demons and evil essences formed from vermilion-azure Qi. In the southwest, the Lord of White-Vermilion Qi and General Xiao Chang command the forces. Bearing white-vermilion banners as their signal, the divine troops patrol the southwest, destroying ghost demons and evil essences formed from white-vermilion Qi. In the northwest, the Lord of White-Black Qi and General He Dang command the forces. Bearing white-black banners as their signal, the divine troops patrol the northwest, destroying ghost demons and evil essences formed from white-black Qi.

Let all calamities and evils between Heaven and Earth be swept away, so that the place where I dwell may be made pure again and the authority of this command may subdue the eight directions. At the utterance of the incantation, swiftly seize, bind, and destroy all inauspicious beings. Let the sacred talismanic command of the Lingbao tradition be proclaimed throughout the Nine Heavens: Qianluo Danuo, Donggang Taixuan—cut down demons, bind evil spirits, and destroy the multitude of ghosts. Let thunder and lightning descend. Let the Three Realms and Four Offices, the mountains and peaks, rivers and seas, all heed this command together. As the stars move and the spirits of the Dipper turn, evil ghosts must be destroyed; wherever the talismanic command reaches, it must be obeyed.

The Divine Incantation of Zhongshan joins with Taiyi Xuanzhen to form awe-inspiring spiritual power. Its mysterious force moves of itself, summoning wind and shaking clouds, bringing forth thunder, and sweeping away the spirits that defy the righteous Way throughout the Three Realms. Once the jade text of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning has been transmitted, it must be obeyed and made to accord with the movements of the sun and moon. The Qi of the five directions gathers and surges forth, swiftly shattering demonic and evil Qi and purifying the eight directions. Heaven and Earth grow clear, the breath of Qi pure; stars and constellations shine together, and thunder displays its might, destroying the wicked. Thunder and lightning roar, capturing and subduing evil spirits so that they cannot remain.

Reciting this incantation once can drive away ghosts and prolong life. When the Five Sacred Peaks are patrolled, even the Eight Seas must heed the command. The Demon King bows toward the east and guards my person. Foul and baleful forces disperse; the Dao’s Qi endures forever. This command must be carried out at once, in accordance with the law.

The Great Dao arose from the obscure and mysterious source, spreading its blessings far and wide as it descended upon Shangqing, the Daoist heaven. The gods of the Nine Heavens stood in ranks with weapons in hand, while the spirits of the Five Sacred Peaks arrayed themselves to welcome it. Winds and clouds gathered across ten thousand miles; grasses and trees across a thousand mountains bowed low. The divine generals’ might descended upon the North Sea, while ranks of rain surged across the South Sea. The Black Dread God guarded the central camp, and Marshal Tianpeng appeared among the outer ranks. The Spirit Palace God held a jade seal; the God Taiyi bore a golden treasure. A fierce general rode a red tiger into battle.

Winds and clouds gathered across ten thousand miles; grasses and trees across a thousand mountains bowed low. The divine generals’ might towered over the North Sea, while ranks of rain surged across the South Sea. The Black Dread God guarded the central camp, and Marshal Tianpeng appeared among the outer ranks. The Spirit Palace God held a jade seal; the God Taiyi bore a golden treasure. A fierce general rode a red tiger, and the vanguard crossed the sea astride a giant whale. Lightning blazed into fierce flames; thunder drums shook the heavenly court. Orders were delivered to the three divine generals, and the Six Ding spirits—the six Yin deities of Daoist tradition—were summoned for the campaign. The gods of the four quarters appeared, and the young attendants shone with brilliance. The net of Earth spread all around, while Heaven’s net descended in close formation. A wheel of fire rose in red flames; a rain canopy billowed with green smoke. Heaven and Earth shook, and the cosmos churned. In thirst, they could drain the vast sea; with a single exertion, they could topple Mount Tai. The White Tiger corresponded to the Qi of Geng and Xin; the Azure Dragon rode upon the Qi of Jia and Yi. They cut down violent demons and destroyed poisonous spirits. How could the ghosts who stir up mischief in the lower realm dare contend with the divine troops? All evil spirits were swept away, and peace came at last to the human world. Hasten and carry this out in accordance with the statutes. So commanded.

Spell for Marshal Tianpeng to Decapitate Demons

Ten thousand ghosts scatter; the divine sword strikes down. Evil beings are destroyed, and the heavens are cleared. Their bones are shattered, and the four quarters are bright. How could the ghosts who stir up mischief in the lower realm dare contend with the divine troops? All evil spirits are swept away, and peace comes at last to the human world. Hasten and carry this out in accordance with the statutes. So commanded.

The ranks of ghosts scatter, and the divine generals at once swing their blades to kill them. The evil beings are wiped out; their corpses burst apart and are exposed everywhere. White bones lie arranged like the Northern Dipper, and blood blazes like the fire of the Emperor. Ghosts from the five directions are cut down as the celestial gods wield their great axes. Demons and evil spirits reveal themselves and flee in every direction; even the smallest ghosts dare not offend. Calamities, omens, and evil influences have nowhere to hide: within a thousand li, every corpse ghost is struck down. I am surrounded by layers of protection, with tens of thousands of soldiers and generals standing in formation. Blades carry the might of the north, and their ferocity surpasses the power of Heaven. The fierce force of the south is subdued, while the celestial soldiers fight with all their strength. The divine generals of the four directions have piercing gazes, green teeth, and dark blue tongues. They stand against the wind, devouring ghosts and demons. Flames bright as red clouds rise into the sky, and celestial gods arrive riding purple clouds. The traces of evil spirits are erased, and the Divine King sweeps away demons with his sword. Dragons and Kui—mythical numinous creatures—arrive in awesome majesty; three divine generals appear like owls. The Emperor Lord holds his weapon, while the great beasts raise their heads high. The mighty gods rise into the heavens; the numinous officials of the eight directions and the star deities of the Seven Luminaries each perform their duties. The northern generals tower above, commanding the divine troops of the five directions. A youth slays the chief culprit, and the Peng generals of the Nine Heavens descend. Let this be carried out swiftly in accordance with the statutes and commands.

With reverence, I raise my head and invite the Zhengyi Xuantan Generals, protectors of the Daoist tradition; Marshal of the Golden Wheel, General Zhao; the thirty-six great Divine Kings; and the boundless celestial troops of the Five-Thunder Great Cavern. They command thunder and lightning, illuminating Heaven and Earth. Flying talismans shatter the lairs of evil spirits and capture ghosts and monsters. They swiftly seize and bind demons, monsters, and spirits, restore their souls to their bodies, and convey their affairs and intentions. They move mountains, uproot trees, and shake Heaven and Earth. Wielding whips and ropes, they make ghosts and gods tremble with fear. They capture thieves, expose them for questioning, and judge disputes; they reward good and punish evil, and restrain wronged souls. When people suffer from every kind of illness, prayer brings recovery; all the many things I seek can also be granted as I wish. The eight mighty royal generals serve as the vanguard, while the powerful gods of the four directions gather like clouds. At the Celestial Master’s command, the divine troops obey swiftly, forming ranks and raising their banners. On hearing my summons, they answer at once. When their service is complete, they ascend to the celestial court. Let this be carried out swiftly in accordance with the statutes.

Danluo Weilu, Wuxu Liuduo. Supreme Vacuity and the Supreme Ultimate; Yin and Yang embrace in harmony. It emerges from being and enters nonbeing, its workings beyond the divination of ghosts and spirits. It passes out of death and enters life, transforming naturally. The primordial, undifferentiated Qi is mystery within mystery. Above, it reaches forbidden realms; below, it penetrates the Great Abyss. Recite it once, and chronic illness heals of itself. Refine the hun and nourish the po, and true Yang is preserved. After purification, bow and recite with reverence; when practice is complete, ascend as an immortal. This supreme secret incantation is ceaselessly upheld by the myriad spirits. The innermost heart mantra should be proclaimed again and again. Join the covenant of the Tanluo Cavern and unite with the Dao in truth. Above the Jade Clarity, primordial sacred Qi billows. Spiritual Qi is distributed and descends into my body. Form and spirit alike become wondrous; through transformation, I ascend on high. I pay court at the Mysterious Capital and command the myriad numinous beings. Hasten and obey this command, in accordance with the statutes.

Heavenly Marshal Tianpeng’s Command Incantation

Tianpeng commands the gods. His majesty is vast as he patrols the great void. He takes his station within the Southern Dipper, stands amid the Northern Dipper, and commands the myriad numinous beings. Hasten and obey this command, in accordance with the statutes.

Heavenly Marshal Tianpeng’s Command Incantation

Tianpeng commands the gods. His majesty is vast as he patrols the great void, taking his station in the Southern Dipper and standing amid the Northern Dipper. He is the great marshal of the Purple Tenuity, endowed with divine power by the Celestial Emperor. He commands the celestial armillary sphere and rules the Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions. His single Qi encompasses all things, joining Heaven and Earth as one. The Five Directions, the Five Dippers, and the demon kings of the Three Realms all fall under his command. His divine Qi is unmatched; he dwells in the golden towers and jade chambers of Heaven and wields immense power. When angered, he shakes Heaven and Earth and dims the sun and moon; he swallows the Qi of the Five Sacred Peaks, causing the four quarters to topple and collapse. Those who obey the incantation must hasten to submit; those who defy it will be overthrown and destroyed. Hasten and obey this command, in accordance with the statutes.

Incantation for Summoning the Great Immortal

With reverence, I summon Tianpeng, the Daoist divine general, and ask him to preside over this ritual. The great immortal’s powers are beyond measure; his majesty is renowned, his name resounding in all directions and throughout the Nine Heavens. He commands the orders of the Northern Emperor and wields the Emperor’s authority, driving out demons and cutting down ghosts and evil spirits, charging ahead like a falcon and hound. Near or far, he must execute and destroy every demon and evil spirit. He patrols the world, shaking mountains and rivers. Black clouds surge, and the vermilion crest atop his helmet wheels about.

Dispatch officials, officers, and troops to carry out their duties, charging forward with the courage of falcons and hounds. Should petty ghosts commit evil and transgress, let falcons devour them and hounds tear them apart; cut them down with swords and pierce them with spears. I now summon Tianpeng and ask him to descend from the Three Heavens. The Marshal of the Peng Stars commands awe without limit and leads three hundred thousand troops. May he aid me in exercising the power of the rite, curing illness, averting calamity, and destroying evil and misfortune. Once the great immortal descends, the sick will find peace. Let this be done swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for the Eight Trigrams’ Celestial Steps

I descend as a celestial deity into the Kun position, and patrol the Zhen position. I summon thunder and kindle fire; its flames blaze red. From the Xun Gate I issue my command and summon the assembled gods. I perform the Yu Steps, joining at the Qian position and ascending to the bright realm of Yang. I send rain down upon the Kan region to sweep away demons and evil spirits. I rise into Heaven and turn the Earth upside down, slaying demons. The golden blades of the Dui position and the divine generals of the Eight Trigrams proceed straight to the Gen Palace and seal the Ghost Gate. At that moment, Heaven and Earth grow dark, and the sun and moon lose their light; no evil gods or ghosts can hide. Let this be done swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Summoning the Thunder Gods

With reverence, I summon the chief marshal, his deputy, and the celestial troops who guard the palaces in the eight directions: thousands upon thousands of mighty warriors, tens of thousands of elite soldiers, the Five Thunder Divine Generals, and the divine generals of the Six Jia and Six Ding. Hear my summons and descend at once. Raise clouds and mist; let thunder roar. Hurl flames whose power reaches ten thousand miles, leaving ghosts and spirits nowhere to flee or hide. Descend from Heaven and patrol the four quarters of Heaven and Earth. Search out and capture the rebellious ghosts pursued by the Six Ding Divine Generals, and seize the demons. Near or far, search thoroughly; bind and bring in every kind of evil spirit and every manner of monster. Let this be done swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

The myriad gods belonging to Lingbao, an important title within Daoist systems of revered deities and scriptures, gather at the Three Palaces. The Supreme Emperor issues his command, and the assembled gods swiftly descend at the portals of the eight directions. Golden divine light shines brilliantly, its radiance filling the sky. The Five Spirits answer the summons at once: the Qi of Li Fire blazes upward, Zhen Wood grows lush and flourishing, and Dui Metal reveals its keen edge. The Qian trigram unfurls the net of Heaven, while the Xun trigram sends forth fierce winds; Kun Earth guards above and below, leaving no trace at the gate of the ghosts. The great gods of the Eight Trigrams, divine officials, troops and generals, numinous youths, and the winds, clouds, thunder, lightning, and thunderclaps all surge forth to seize the spirits and monsters. Should anyone dare to resist, let them hear my command and descend at once from the sky. If they violate Heaven’s laws, let them be swiftly escorted to Beifeng, the place of the underworld in Daoist lore. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Purification Spell

Yuan, Heng, Li, Zhen—the four auspicious virtues of the Book of Changes—mighty and vast Divine Lord. The sun and moon move in their courses, shining brilliantly; thunderclaps surge forth. The spirits and monsters are seized—who would dare disobey? Let them hear my command and descend at once from the sky. If they violate Heaven’s laws, let them be swiftly escorted to Beifeng. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Purification Spell

Yuan, Heng, Li, Zhen, mighty and vast Divine Lord. The sun and moon move in their courses, shining brilliantly. Light illuminates the Three Realms—the worlds of Heaven, Earth, and humanity, together with all that lies within their domains. The stars respond together with the Northern Dipper. The upright force of Tiangang, the Northern Dipper’s firm and righteous energy, sweeps away demonic influences. The Nine Phoenixes dispel defilement, making spirits and malign presences vanish without a trace. The following lines contain missing characters and cannot be fully interpreted from the surviving text. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Water Consecration Spell

Heaven and Earth move in their courses, gathering the essence of the sun and moon. Their radiance shines across the Four Seas, able to cut through demonic influences, dispel defilement and avert calamities, and make the human body and dwelling bright and pure. Once the divine water has been prepared, all ghosts submit and become calm. The following lines contain missing characters and cannot be fully interpreted from the surviving text. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Spell of the Divine Ruler of Tianpeng

The heavens are clear and bright, the earth is richly endowed, and the worlds in the ten directions are deep and dark. Within the void dwells primordial essence—the primordial vital energy spoken of in Daoism. It contains the myriad things and commands all spirits, silently setting creation in motion; its transformations are unfathomable. From it, Heaven and Earth were formed, and brightness was separated from darkness. Only after the unhewn nature dispersed could the myriad things grow and flourish.

Heaven, Earth, and humanity each took their proper place, and benevolence and righteousness arose. Ritual and music appeared in succession, and treachery and evil took root alongside them. The Five Constants—benevolence, righteousness, ritual, wisdom, and trustworthiness—fell into disorder. Scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants quarreled among themselves; those above refused to show forbearance, while those below lacked loyalty. Demons, ghosts, monsters, and spirits then ran rampant, harming people and disrupting their lives. They brought illness upon entire families, scattered relatives, ended family lines, and even caused fathers, elder brothers, and other kin to die. Innocent people’s lives were cut short, their souls returning to the underworld. The Dao’s Qi became muddled, and good and evil were hard to distinguish.

The Northern Emperor, ruler of the north and a deity often associated with the Fengdu divine realm, took pity on all living beings and commanded divine officials to destroy ghosts, monsters, and malevolent spirits. Though many had suffered injustice, the good were still able to find peace. Marshal Tianpeng, a Daoist guardian general, manifested in many forms and received from the Supreme Emperor the honored title “Primordial Essence.” He assisted Heaven in spreading its teachings and revealed his divine might. The Jade Emperor issued his command once more, descending from Heaven to protect all beings and bring peace to the world.

The Great Sage Marshal Tianpeng commands three hundred thousand soldiers and generals. Turning back the light and dispelling darkness, they descend from the celestial court and patrol the human world, hunting down monsters and spirits. They subdue wind and fire and continually seize evil beings; wherever there is evil, they cut it down, and wherever there is a ghost, they destroy it. Even the plague gods are bound and bow their heads in obedience. Thus Heaven becomes clear and Earth peaceful; the people find rest, and all things sprout and grow. Evil is driven away, the gods reveal their numinous power, and even the underworld is delivered, allowing the souls of the dead to be reborn. The people are well, and the realm is at peace.

By command, Marshal Tianpeng sends down a divine ruler, a ritual implement for warding off evil and protecting the body, and grants it spiritual power. It can guard the body and life and restrain the myriad spirits. The Three Platforms, a name for a group of stars, are within the ruler; above it are the Seven Stars, and divine talismans are set on all four sides to govern the underworld. Wherever the ruler points, even mountains tremble. Thirty-six generals and the divine troops who guard the ruler attend it; they soar through the air to examine people’s destinies and communicate with the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing), the three highest deities revered in Daoism. The ruler can deliver people, prolong life, protect the body and preserve life, and calm disasters. It cuts down evil spirits and harmful forces, making ghosts and monsters hide themselves. Those who wield it may ascend to immortality and attain sagehood, rising with the ruler to shine alongside the sun and moon and keep the Dao’s Qi everlasting. They can also turn evil back toward the right, subdue impurity, and heighten clarity.

The six classes of ghostly bandits and evil spirits, as Daoism describes them, are defeated and destroyed at the sight of the divine ruler. The Daoist methods have no ranks of superiority or inferiority, yet those who wield the ruler and serve the Dao will prosper. When they climb mountains, fierce beasts submit; when they enter the sea, flood dragons rise. By day they travel as swiftly as morning dew vanishing; by night their bodies move with ease. The generals of the four directions—divine generals such as Bing, Ren, Jia, and Geng—can summon clouds and rain and unleash thunder. There is no deity who will not submit, no ghost or monster that will not tremble. Those who resist the divine ruler perish; those who uphold it live. Those who hate it are disgraced; those who honor it gain glory. Those who pay it reverence enjoy long life; those who defy it die. This is the Marshal’s command and the Northern Emperor’s covenant. Its divine power moves through the transformations of creation…