《太上三洞神咒》Vol. 3

Thunderbolts transform into ten thousand rays, and the force of thunder surges in every direction. Thunder crashes with a deafening roar, while thunderfire rushes swiftly onward. Thirteen deputy Thunder Gods unleash their power together, shaking mountains and overturning seas, snapping trees and devastating forests. Flying thunder surges with lightning, and the thunderclaps resound with formidable force. Wind rises swiftly from Xun in the southeast, while a tiger’s roar comes from Gen in the northeast. Thunder roars furiously from Zhen in the east, and rain pours down as if from a basin. I now issue the talismanic command, and Heaven and Earth are at once purged and made still. Fierce thunder descends swiftly, displaying the workings of retribution. The forces of the five directions clash with one another, drums pounding thunderously; the five directions answer one another, sweeping away filth, evil, and ill omens. Yellow thunder, bearing green Qi, strikes east and north; white thunder, bearing black Qi, cuts down traces of evil; black thunder, bearing yellow Qi, shakes and subdues the Nine Palaces; red thunder, bearing white Qi, rises aloft to the highest heavens. The Lord of the Celestial Thunder Ministry, the Thunder Duke of All Heaven, displays his awe-inspiring might and shakes wind and thunder. Green thunder, bearing red Qi, unleashes its power together with the thunderclap talisman. Swiftly, carry this out in accordance with the law and command.

End of The Taishang Three Caverns Divine Incantations, scroll five.

The Taishang Three Caverns Divine Incantations, scroll six

Incantations for praying, averting calamity, opening the way, and delivering the dead

Incantation for the Golden City Transformation. Swiftly, carry this out in accordance with the law and command.

End of The Taishang Three Caverns Divine Incantations, scroll five.

The Taishang Three Caverns Divine Incantations, scroll six

Incantations for praying, averting calamity, opening the way, and delivering the dead

Incantation for the Golden City Transformation

The sky is deep blue, the earth dark yellow; my body rises into the realm of Yang. I tread the stars of the Dipper’s handle and transform into the Celestial Ladle, the Heavenly Warrior. Calamities of water and fire all depart from me. My spirit flies to the Golden Palace and faces the Jade Emperor. Above, I face the vault of Heaven, and golden light shines in every direction. I dwell within the protection of golden light. Swiftly, carry this out in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation of the Mysterious Gate

I ride the Heavenly Warrior and travel, tread across the Nine Profound Heavens, pass through the Primordial Dipper, and ascend to immortality. Having attained the Dao, I become a celestial immortal, and all the gods rejoice. I can conceal my form and transform in countless ways. If anyone dares to offend or test me, I will seize and subdue them at the Dipper Gate, the portal governed by the spirits of the Northern Dipper. I sweep away ill omens and distinguish the righteous way from crooked paths. A fire bell appears in my left hand; in my right, I wield a golden pendant, an ornament or bell held by Daoist deities. My awe-inspiring radiance shines for ten thousand miles; with a single call, I summon the divine generals before me. No command issued by the Jade Emperor can fail to be carried out as spoken. Swiftly, carry this out in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation of the Seven Stars and Dipper

Great Kui of Yangming, Wenchang of the Primordial Ultimate. Yin Essence of the Supreme Ultimate, the Jade Pivot of the Most High. With one inhalation, I tread the Dipper’s stars; myriad ghosts hide in submission. Mysterious Brightness and Jade Radiance, Purple Tenuity opening Yang. Cinnabar Origin, supremely true; Shen and Qi exhale their might. Northern Pole Heaven □, turning back to connect with the Mysterious Shen. Yin Essence of the Supreme Ultimate, the Jade Pivot of the Most High. With one inhalation, I tread the Dipper’s stars; myriad ghosts hide in submission. Mysterious Brightness and Jade Radiance, Purple Tenuity opening Yang. Cinnabar Origin, supremely true; Shen and Qi exhale their might. Northern Pole Heaven □, turning back to connect with the Mysterious Shen. The Jade Maiden of the Heavenly Gate attends in honor as the spirit returns. The hun-soul and po-soul become divine; the whole body rises and flies as an immortal. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statute!

Great Kui of Yangming, Wenchang of the Primordial Ultimate, Yin Essence of the Supreme Ultimate, and the Jade Pivot of the Most High are all celestial star spirits or sacred names. As the incantation is recited, the practitioner treads the Dipper’s stars, following prescribed steps that symbolically trace a path among the stars of heaven, and draws in the Qi of Heaven and Earth. The practitioner thereby prays that the host of ghosts will retreat and submit, and that divine might will appear. The Jade Maiden of the Heavenly Gate attends the returning spirits, bringing calm to the hun-soul and po-soul so that the whole body may ascend to immortality. “Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statute!” is a common closing invocation in Daoist spells, signifying that the command must be carried out at once.

Spirit-Invocation Incantation

Spirit-light shines in all directions, radiant and brilliant. I ask you to protect my true nature: if it is in Heaven, return it to Heaven; if it is on Earth, return it to Earth. May the Qi of the Dao fill my body and mind, transforming me into a True Person, one who has attained the Dao.

Eastern Boundary Incantation

Rosy clouds fill the air around Fusang, the divine tree of the East, and clouds gather from every quarter. The Perfected Ones of Primordial Yellow, the beings perfected in Heaven, gather amid the clouds and send forth nine rays of light, joining the Three Blossoms, symbols of the essence, Qi, and spirit or of auspicious celestial radiance. The divine general raises his sword and shakes Heaven; the divine tiger drives away evil influences. Great Emperor Anyang commands the host of demons, sending them up to the Divine Empyrean, where their forms are cleansed and they return to boundless purity. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statute!

Southern Boundary Incantation

The hot Qi becomes flowing vapor and rises into Red Brightness, the celestial realm of the South. The Primordial Sage of Longevity dwells high in Jade Capital, the palace in Heaven, while a mysterious net spreads its light. Heaven issues an edict to deliver all beings; demons are destroyed, and the fire bells are sent flying. May the upright Qi be protected and endure through billions of kalpas. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statute!

Western Boundary Incantation

Pure white radiance and golden numinous blossoms shine through the distant depths. The Qi of Great Brahma spreads throughout, while the force of Primordial Firmness moves in its course. Their lights transform and mingle, rising and appearing in the ten directions. They guard the seven passes, harmonize Yin-Yang, and disperse foul Qi, bringing good fortune to my body. Once the Jade Writ, the celestial edict, has been proclaimed, may the Way of life continue and flourish. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statute!

The Taishui Shuo Dan (a title for the deity or talismanic invocation of the Great Yin) ascends to the Heavenly Emperor. Its Jing and Qi surge and flow like thunder and fire, manifesting in the Jade Void, the Daoist realm of clear emptiness. It assists the Three Realms and reviews the registers and charts of the Primordial Heaven. The true talisman shines forth, securing one’s name in the Clear Capital, the celestial abode. One’s name is entered in the Golden Register, the Daoist roll for recording immortals and granting blessings and deliverance from calamity; all past grievances and enmities are thereby dissolved. The spirit-consciousness flies to the Azure Firmament and ascends beyond to the Great Void, the formless and boundless heavenly realm. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for the Boundary of the Central Palace

The Primordial Void Sovereign, source of all, dwells in the central Earth position. The Three Gai penetrate the Dao of the Primordial Beginning, thereby opening the Great Palace in Heaven. Through seven transformations, Yin and Yang Qi mingle and revolve. Flowers are scattered, the myriad spirits are summoned, and Heaven and Earth are brought into communication. Ascend beyond to the Great Void. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for the Boundary of the Central Palace

The Primordial Void Sovereign, source of all, dwells in the central Earth position. The Three Gai penetrate the Dao of the Primordial Beginning, thereby opening the Great Palace in Heaven. Through seven transformations, Yin and Yang Qi mingle and revolve. Flowers are scattered, the myriad spirits are summoned, and Heaven and Earth are brought into communication. Perform this incantation on an auspicious day, and you will be honored by the innumerable heavenly realms. May it protect you through years of calamity and bring you endless blessings for a long life. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Swallowing a Talisman

Swallow the divine talisman, and the light of the true spirit will shine through. The hundred spirits will heed your command and hurry to your aid, discerning the state of your heart; the Six Jia divine generals will guard your side, their presence deep and luminous. The primordial Qi of the Five Phases is remote and subtle. Nothing can conceal its traces; even before chaos has opened, it can distinguish all things. Hearing a sound, it knows the name at once. This is the wondrous principle between Heaven and Earth, called “Opening the Heart.” Swallowing it brings peace, opens the way to the principle of nature, and raises you to the Purple Court, the celestial realm of immortals. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Communicating with the Spirits

Within the heart dwells the Divine Elixir Lord, three inches tall and seven fen wide. He wears a vermilion robe and a deep-red skirt. Through his might and virtue, he manifests as a spirit, comprehends creation, and reaches the utmost truth. He dwells within the heart; do not let him leave the body. If an urgent matter arises, come quickly and inform me. When the heart memorial is presented to the heavenly spirits, he wears his deep-red skirt; through his might and virtue, he manifests as a spirit, comprehends creation, and reaches the utmost truth. He dwells within the heart; do not let him leave the body. If an urgent matter arises, come quickly and inform me. When the heart memorial is presented, seek the sacred intent of the Most High. Whether it is approved or not, please let me know. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Burning Incense

The Way of Heaven gives aid without partiality; the celestial patterns reach into the hidden and subtle principles. Whether in dark and secret places or in unseen realms beyond perception, nothing goes unknown when there is a response. Wear the talismanic chart, and the divine troops will answer your summons. I am the August Sovereign within the Dao, ranked among the Immortal Capital. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Gathering Thunder and Summoning Lightning

Thunder gods, take your appointed places: the Celestial Officials straighten their bearing, and the sun, moon, stars, winds, clouds, and lightning all obey the command. Thunder crashes, Heaven and Earth tremble, and the myriad stars are awed into submission. Tiangang, the stellar deity of the Northern Dipper, guards me; Kuixing, another deity associated with the Dipper, leads the way. The Celestial Attendants and spirits stand in ranks on either side, while seventy-two generals escort me forward. The Gate of Heaven opens for me, and the Earth Gate—the portal to the underworld—lies open before me. Three thousand human and spirit beings, together with six hundred longevity gods, accompany me, filling Heaven and Earth. Wherever I pass, ghosts and spirits are struck with fear. Setting out from Heaven, I can travel throughout the world of Qian and Kun.

The Perfected Ones of Golden Radiance in the east and the Fire Wheel in the south, the Envoy of Original Destiny in the west, the Spirit Lord of Water in the north, and the Elders of the Five Emperors at the center of Heaven—all the spirits come to protect me. The Jade Maidens honor me, and the gods of the Five Emperors spread throughout the Jade Pool. Lightning flashes, winds and clouds turn, spirits and ghosts quake with fear; trees are snapped and stones swept aloft, while the stars are brought under command. The gods of the eight directions—Qian, Kan, Gen, Zhen, Xun, Li, Kun, and Dui—each receive their orders. Some guard, carry messages, and marshal troops; others seize demons and destroy spirits. The eight generals whom I summon constantly spread the True Qi, the primordial vital energy of Daoism. Once this True Qi is spread, the Five Sacred Peaks answer the command and offer protection, while the stars move as ordered.

Envoys of Kunling in the east, the Fire Bell in the south, Xuanyang in the west, Diaopeng in the north, and Cui Long at the center: hear my command. My spirit and Qi correspond to the brightness and darkness of the sun and moon. I travel alone through the five directions and command Heaven and Earth. At the recitation of the incantation, the five generals carry out their orders: in Heaven, the gods act as commanded; on Earth, ghosts and spirits hear the order and tremble with fear. The Perfected One Taiyi helps me keep the True Qi ever-present. The wind god stops when ordered; ghosts and spirits turn to dust at the command. The gods follow where I go, and Taiyi recognizes my form. I solemnly summon the True Lords of Taiyi of the Five Directions, the roaming and venomous envoys of the heavens, and the rest, ordering them to act with me and subdue ghosts and demons.

The Perfected Ones of Taiyi—Yuanming, Duoming, Yuehua, Yuezhi, Safeng, Mengfeng, Qulei, Leiguang, Pili, Liehuo, Yuebo, and the rest of the gods—come to spread Qi and assist me, so that my True Qi may endure. Kuigang, the stellar deity of the Northern Dipper, becomes its handle, and the command of the Dark Heavens is put into effect. Thunder crashes, and ghosts and demons are brought under control. Wherever Taiyi goes, ghosts and spirits turn to dust. When I recite the incantation once, the myriad ghosts submit. The sun and moon shine clear; the celestial troops are under my command, the heavenly gods obey my orders, and I go forward alone as I please.

The great generals Tianluo, Tiandu, Tiansha, Tianyi, Tianmeng, Tianjian, and the rest convey my orders, while the gods escort me on my travels. The thirty-two heavens gather and direct the powers of all the heavenly gods. Each god keeps to its appointed place, the troops arrive at my command, and thunder roars. The Thunder Emperors of the east, south, west, north, and center, together with the Perfected One Taixuan Who Saves Lives, the Spirit Official Taixuan Who Splits Trees, and the gods of the Five Emperors, are all summoned to protect me. August Heaven brought me forth; the sun and moon shine upon me; rivers nourish me. The gods of the Five Emperors, the stars, the sun, and the moon continually illuminate my form. I carry out the rites, and the myriad troops follow.

Thunder is set in motion. Thunder generals and the spirits who tread the void and carry out Heaven’s will spread throughout the heavenly court. The Wind Earl stirs Heaven and Earth; the Rain Master churns the rivers and seas and sends down rain; the Thunder Duke unleashes bolts of lightning. The envoys of the Five Directions carry out their orders, command wondrous powers, and escort me forward. The heavens collapse and the stars darken; the earth gods immediately spring into action. Heavenly thunder, divine thunder, and demonic thunder each strike as commanded. The Five Thunder Envoys roar with power, reaching up to the Five Sacred Peaks and down to the sea gods. Heaven and Earth, the sun and moon, ghosts and spirits—all are awed into submission. I once more call upon the Thunder Generals to obey my command, and pray that August Heaven send rain, restoring clarity to Yin and Yang, the sun, and the moon.

The gods of the baleful forces—the Great Baleful, Subtle Baleful, Yang Baleful, Spirit of Death, Seven Killings, Nine Luminaries, Lunar Baleful, Poisonous Baleful, Responding Baleful, and the rest—also obey the command and accompany me as I recite the incantation. The great wind-and-hail gods of the Five Directions, along with the gods and envoys of rain and hail, snow and hail, and dew and hail, manifest Heaven’s might. If there are wicked dragons, demons, or other evil beings, seize them and bring them to me. The various envoys of thunder and lightning set out at my command, their voices like thunder. They can shatter mountains and topple peaks, and pacify the gates of the sea. If there is a demonic dragon, seize and bind it.

Acting by Heaven’s command, I govern the gates of the great sea. The Dragon Gods of the Five Lakes and Four Seas must all appear and obey my orders. I summon the envoys of the Eastern, Southern, Western, Northern, and Central Seas, along with the Dragon Kings of the Five Lakes, and order them to manifest at once. The gods of the Five Lakes, the Lords of the Five Dragons, and the Dragon Maidens all act at my command. The Eight Dragons, the Dragon Lords of the Nine Rivers, and even the lesser dragon gods of streams and springs heed my summons. After the incantation is recited, thunder rises: rain may fall like stars, or wind and rain may clear to fair skies. At the thunder command, sweet dew descends. The sky grows dark, the spring gods beneath the earth are stirred, and the spirits escort the sweet dew as it travels to save all living things.

August Heaven sends forth human beings so that the Way may flourish and all things may grow. The Dragon Gods go their separate ways; the Thunder Gods ascend to Heaven; the Wind Earl spreads the clouds; the Rain Master scatters sweet dew; and bolts of lightning shake the heavenly court. The Five Dragons send down rain, the Nine Rivers surge, mist blankets the Five Lakes, and the Eight Winds churn the sea. The dragon gods of streams and springs uphold the thunder command and beat the drums in the heavenly court. Then, with an incantation, I urge the dragons to send down rain and relieve the people. The Five Thunder Envoys shake Heaven and Earth, shatter mountains and topple peaks, so that all things may grow. Shangqing, the highest Daoist heaven, issues the command of deliverance; there must be no delay. Urgent, urgent, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances.

The August Heaven created and endowed me with the power to summon clouds and bring rain. The Five Thunder Messengers obey my command, and thunder shakes Heaven and Earth. Mountains may be shattered, and all things grow in their wake. Shangqing, one of the Daoist celestial realms, will come to aid us; there must be no delay. Act at once in accordance with the command.

The August Heaven gave me life, and the Earth bears me. Thunderbolts assist me; I take my place in the palace of immortals. I can command the sun and moon and govern the stars. Hail descends from Heaven; wind and rain rage together, and thunder rings clear. In the darkness, thunder and lightning roar, shaking Heaven and Earth. In my left hand I hold the celestial writ; in my right, the Jade Numina, a talismanic seal or spiritual token. The seventy-two generals surround me as I advance. The Gate of Heaven opens for me, and the Earth’s portal grants me passage. The seventy-two generals bear my commands and carry them out. Three thousand six hundred spirits are always at my side.

The Golden Flower Fire Wheel and the Primordial-Life Water Spirit, powers invoked in the spell, spread across the Jade Pool, the mythical realm of immortals, and stir into action at a clap of thunder. The spirits called Heavenly Wanderer, Earthly Wanderer, Azure Wanderer, and the Five Wanderers obey the command, bear the ritual rank, and seize the flood dragons. Rivers lend me their force; the Wind Earl raises the winds, and the Rain Master stirs clouds and rain. At the sound of heavenly thunder, all things grow together. The August Heaven sends down rain and opens the Dragon Sea’s gates; quicksand and floodwaters surge forth, and the Seven Baleful Forces move as one.

The August Heaven makes the human way flourish and cuts off the ghostly way. Pan Emperor forms Pan Luo, then forms Po Luo, Luo, and Luo Po Dragon, to rescue the people. Here, thunder, rain, and dragon gods are invoked repeatedly, so that winds and rain may rise, all things may grow, and evil influences may be driven away. Commands to shatter mountains and overturn seas issue from Qingcheng. The spell rings out swiftly and forcefully; winds and rain sweep across the eight directions, and waters rise over seas and streams.

The thunderbolts of the Five Directions unleash their might, striking the dragons and making them surge into flight. The Po Dragon of the Eastern Sea, the Fire God of the Southern Sea, the White Sand of the Western Sea, the Great Waves of the Northern Sea, and the Floodwaters of the Central Sea all respond together. The waters of the Five Lakes are powerful enough to move mountains. The water spirits of Poyang Lake, Jiao Lake, and the twelve streams also come to heed the command. The Poison Dragon gives its cry of command, and Laoyue Baidu, a spirit name or ritual title in the spell, responds. Whatever is summoned by numinous power moves when it hears the voice and incantation.

Mountains and rivers bring forth primordial Qi, and the myriad spirits gather into form. The Water Palace of the Northern Capital, abode of the northern Yin-water spirits, is guarded by Lord Yan. Moon Yin, Moon Radiance, and the Golden Mother, a female immortal revered like the Queen Mother of the West, set out to perform their rites. The Three Officials open the gates, and the Five Emperors respond in accord with their talismanic seals. Dragons fly and lightning races; the Golden Tiger and Fire Command follow into action.

The Vast Master Taihua and Flowing Essence Dongling, spirits or powers invoked in the spell, obey and act. There is no spirit that cannot be commanded, and no order that cannot be carried out. Above is the exalted celestial deity Taiyi; below are the spirit officials of the Ten Lands. The Purple Void Mystery Sage bears the command and puts it into effect. The secret designation of the Golden Register descends from the Roaring Court: those who defy the order are destroyed by thunder, while those who obey prosper and receive honor. The ritual master radiates golden light and ascends to the Imperial Court. There is no spirit that cannot be commanded, and no order that cannot be carried out; above are Taiyi and the spirit officials of the Ten Lands, while the Purple Void Mystery Sage bears the command and acts. The secret designation of the Golden Register descends from the Roaring Court: those who defy the order perish, and those who obey prosper and flourish. The ritual master radiates golden light and ascends to the Imperial Court. Act at once in accordance with the command.

The Incantation of the Three Heavens of Taiyi

I pay homage to the star deities in the central heavens. I open primordial chaos and summon thunder. I assist the Dao of Heaven and establish the pillars that support Heaven and Earth. I split the earth, overturn Heaven and Earth, and shake the portal in the Xun direction.

Cang Tong, under the command of the Azure Emperor (the Eastern Celestial Emperor), issues the order. Heaven delivers its decree, and thunder immediately roars. I now command the star generals, setting the Dipper mansion in motion and shifting the constellations as they clash and race against one another.

Incantation of the Holy Queen Who Masters the Nine Heavens

The Holy Mother of Turtle Terrace, a goddess revered in Daoism, is vast in compassion. She transmits magical arts, grants access to the heavenly realm, and saves all beings. Lunar Yin and Moonlight convey her commands; the Eleven Great Luminaries, star deities who govern the sun, moon, and stars, command the thunder.

The Ji and Bi mansions govern wind and rain; the Yi mansion governs thunder and lightning. The creative power of Heaven and Earth brings forth all things. I now act according to the Six Returns and Mysterious Heavens cycle, dispatching divine talismans through the air and commanding the stars. Moonlight conveys the command; the Eleven Great Luminaries command the thunder.

The Ji and Bi mansions govern wind and rain; the Yi mansion governs thunder and lightning. The creative power of Heaven and Earth brings forth all things. I now act according to the Six Returns and Mysterious Heavens cycle, dispatching divine talismans through the air, commanding the stars, and setting them against one another.

Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Mercury, and Mars each possess wondrous transformations and awe the heavenly court with their might. The beginning and end of conjunctions, along with the cometary stars and broom stars—unusual celestial phenomena named in ancient astrology—are all under the supreme authority of Taiyi.

I now send talismans flying ahead. May all the deities heed the command and act at once.

Incantation for Establishing the Dipper in the North

The northern thunderclap messenger, the Great Thunder God, bears the Dipper banner, destroys evil, and drives away all traces. By Heaven’s decree, descend swiftly to the imperial court! The Five Sacred Peaks and Four Great Rivers, with all their deities, follow me and act according to the Dipper method. Roam freely between Heaven and Earth; all the gods obey the command and move.

Incantation of the Darkened Heavens and Dipper Wall

Darken Heaven and Earth, make thunder and lightning flash; turn the pivot of the Northern Dipper and split Heaven and Earth apart. Three thousand six hundred thunder generals move together with the Three Terraces stars and the other star deities.

Destroy the path traveled by the Sun God and descend straight to the vast sea. Summon the Great Yin, the Moon God, so that the sea reverses its flow and returns to its source. Wield divine powers to make the ghosts and spirits vanish without a trace; send them to the Five Terraces, scattering their souls and separating them from their bodies.

Incantation of the Five Darknesses

The sky is dim and murky, the earth is dim and murky; people are dim and murky, and ghosts are dim and murky. Heaven, earth, people, and ghosts are all sunk in darkness. Heaven, earth, people, and ghosts are all as if their heads had been severed. Heaven and earth, people and ghosts, are deep and shadowy; the great lakes and small lakes are also sunk beyond sight, with no bottom to be seen. All beneath heaven lies in deep gloom.

A raging wind sweeps across ten thousand miles, blocking the ghosts’ way and severing their heads. Heaven and earth, people and ghosts, are all deep in darkness; the great lakes and small lakes are sunk beyond sight, with no bottom to be seen. A raging wind across ten thousand miles blinds the ghosts; a black wind across ten thousand miles cuts off their road, leaving people unable to find a shadow and ghosts unable to trace a path. The roads in all ten directions are sealed, and all nine paths are cut off. Hasten and carry this out in accordance with the law.

Jade Emperor’s Heart Incantation

Among the Five Phases—Metal, Wood, Earth, Water, and Fire—plague spirits are at work. The plague gods of the Nine Springs, Qin Bowen and Yang Bowen; the heat god, Liu Bowen; and the cold god, Mao Wenwu. The Most High (a revered Daoist deity) has issued a command, dispatching envoys to the five directions to relay the order to the gods above the Six Heavens. Let the decree be carried out swiftly. Hasten and carry this out in accordance with the law.

The five directional plague gods and the Qi of pestilence are to be seized and handed over to the Seven Stars. The Eastern Dipper (the divine office governing the stars of the east) records the ghosts’ names and sends them to the heavenly court; the Western Dipper (the divine office governing the stars of the west) gathers in their souls and determines your name. Let them vanish at once—these are the Emperor of Heaven’s officials and troops. Set out nets and raise the wheel of fire; devour demons and evil ghosts, bind malevolent spirits and strange creatures. Which deity would disobey? Which ghost or monster would dare obstruct this? When the evil incantation is cast, divine power is diminished; when it is cast upon a ghost, the ghost perishes. Behead thousands upon thousands of ghosts; cut down tens of thousands upon tens of thousands of evil spirits. Hasten and carry this out in accordance with the law.

Incantation for Expelling Pestilence

With a stern voice, I issue this careful command: The Green Plague Demon of the East is the essence of rotten wood; the Red Plague Demon of the South is the essence of blazing fire; the White Plague Demon of the West is the essence of dead metal; the Black Plague Demon of the North is the essence of a filthy pool; the Yellow Plague Demon of the Center is the essence of dung and earth. They arise and change as the seasons and solar terms wax and wane. When the spirit and Qi are not nurtured within the body, they transform outwardly into malign essences. Now I know your names and see clearly your forms and traces. All the plague demons of the Five Directions, together with Huang Nu, the Seven Sons, Bai Sang, the Brothers, and every other kind of miscellaneous evil spirit, must conceal their traces and remove their forms. Obey this talismanic command at once. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Exorcism Incantation

The Divine King of the Five Thunders drives away ill fortune. At the sound of thunder, evil spirits are destroyed. A fiery chariot ten thousand fathoms long burns away plague and malign Qi; fierce winds sweep through the four quarters, scattering them far away. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Plague-Cutting Incantation

I am like the light of the sun, my might shaking the Nine Heavens. The radiance of metal and fire shines before me, while flying dragons circle the vault of heaven. The Yellow God holds the axe of command and bears the jade seal of the Celestial Pivot. He harmonizes the powers of the Five Planets, the Five Dippers, and the seven spirits of the Yuan stars; subdues the nine kinds of hideous evil and destroys the plague demons of the Five Directions. Sweep away evil and baleful forces; drive out every ill omen. You must depart at once and obey my command of the Kui and Gang stars. Haste! Flying dragons circle the vault of heaven. The Yellow God holds the axe of command and bears the jade seal of the Celestial Pivot. He harmonizes the powers of the Five Planets, the Five Dippers, and the seven spirits of the Yuan stars; subdues the nine kinds of hideous evil and destroys the plague demons of the Five Directions. Sweep away evil and baleful forces; drive out every ill omen. You must depart at once and obey my command of the Kui and Gang stars. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Heavenly spirits who spread plague and the spirits who harmonize plague each have their own duties. When earthly spirits spread plague, the decree of Heavenly Pardon goes first. When demons and malign forces spread plague, their traces must be wiped out and their miasma dispersed. The Supreme One (a Daoist honorific for the highest divinity) issues a command to protect people and grant them long life. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Expulsion Incantation

The Supreme One’s Mysterious Capital (the celestial realm where the Supreme One dwells) issues the flying talismans of the Four Covenants. The divine spirits of the Nine Perfected clear the way ahead, while heavenly troops drive the plague behind. The generals of the Five Thunders, the Eight Generals, and the divine generals of the Six Jia Day Officers all set forth together. They leap through the heavens and cast down to earth, seizing fierce demons and evil spirits; capturing malign beings and attacking wicked kinds. Those who resist are immediately put to death. The plague officials of the year must understand and receive the Emperor of Heaven’s edict, obey the talismanic command, and make no delay. Quickly withdraw the contagion and restore the sick to health; release them from adversity, dispel disaster, and erase their names from the register of the dead. Should anyone dare to defy this order, send them at once under escort to Fengdu (the Daoist underworld where the guilty are punished). Haste, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Plague-Slaying Incantation

In the Jade Clarity of the Divine Empyrean, the celestial troops from the ten directions, clad in blue-jade armor and wearing dragon-patterned headscarves, seize and subdue the myriad demons and hunt down ghosts and spirits. Whenever an order is issued according to the spell, the beings concerned will secretly arrive. Retribution, retribution: whoever dares disobey the command is sent at once to Fengdu, the legendary capital of the underworld. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Spell for Slaying Pestilence

In the Jade Clarity of the Divine Empyrean, the celestial troops from the ten directions, clad in blue-jade armor and wearing dragon-patterned headscarves, seize and subdue the myriad demons and hunt down ghosts and spirits. Whenever an order is issued according to the spell, the beings concerned will secretly arrive. Retribution, retribution; no harm comes to one’s allotted years. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Spell of the Cloud Net

The Cloud Net, the celestial cloud qi and heavenly net imagined in Daoism, descends into the celestial order, while divine light shines brilliantly in the Purple Tenuity Enclosure, the abode of the Celestial Emperor. The Seven Perfected return to the imperial throne; the Nine Dippers, the Northern Dipper and its associated stellar spirits, descend into the jade-like realm of Jade Emptiness. Purple canopies layer above the lofty clouds, and mysterious, refined qi illuminates the eight directions. Above, the Nine Dawn Immortal Guests chant hidden feathered writings. They fly and roam across the northern wilderness, sharing the longevity of Heaven and Earth. Their carriage stops at the Dark Feather Terrace, then they fly onward to the nine heavens.

The grotto-heaven is deep and still; the Cloud Net rises through the air. Below, those who cultivate the Way and seek the truth raise their heads to summon the immortal companions of Jade Dawn. They circle the realm of Yang Radiance three times, then turn back nine times and enter the grotto-heaven. With lofty steps they ascend to the Celestial Emperor’s court, singing aloud the words of the dragon’s flight. The radiance of Jade Dawn shines upon the north, and branches like fine jade appear and disappear among emerald cliffs. The Ninefold Spirit Terrace emerges in the void, its brilliance illuminating distant places.

The heavenly gates turn, revealing layer upon layer of light. In times of calamity, one repeatedly encounters the snares of the net. May I mount a feathered carriage and fly among the Milky Way and the Weaver Girl star. Preserve my spiritual nature, so that body and mind may always transform; may I forever forget the countless disturbances between Heaven and Earth. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Spell for Eliminating Poison

The Great Star Lord of the Central Earth Lodge, the deity of Saturn, personally holds a sword and guards the heavenly gate. When beings below suffer disaster, as soon as a talisman and register arrive in response to their prayer, ghosts and spirits are struck with fear. If stubborn beings defy the command, the fire of the Celestial Net burns their souls. If they offend the baleful Sha of the Earth Sovereign, the command is carried out at once, so that misfortune and good fortune are no longer delayed. If pestilence still refuses to submit, the heavenly eye is opened wide and celestial authority brought down. The dragon-headed messenger carries the talisman to put the order into effect, making retribution manifest and revealing the numinous might of the Emperor Lord. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Spell for Dispelling Calamity

Shi yin, ping ai bei. Chao chuan dan ding fan fu gong han hu.

The August Sovereign of Heaven receives the Three Qi (the three primordial energies that form all things in Heaven and Earth), while the Jade Emperor receives the mandate to govern the celestial realm. He commands the celestial chariot, assists the axis of Heaven, and brings order to the heavenly court.

The gods settle in their places. Incense is burned and an altar is established; they take their positions in the celestial realm of the One Origin, under the protection of the Three Sovereigns. Holding their talismanic mandates, they pay homage to the Highest Clarity (Shangqing), the Daoist celestial realm of pure subtlety. They pray that blessings extend to the Lords of the Five Dippers and that the Three Officials (the Officials of the Upper, Middle, and Lower Origins) descend.

The gods settle in their places. Incense is burned and an altar is established; they take their positions in the celestial realm of the One Origin, under the protection of the Three Sovereigns. Holding their talismanic mandates, they pay homage to the Highest Clarity. They pray that blessings extend to the Lords of the Five Dippers and that the Three Officials descend into the immortal realm.

They restrain and summon ordinary people, and rescue those in distress. They purify the altar with water and write Fulu (talismans and registers). Receiving their ritual offices, they assist the Three Realms (the three celestial realms of the Three Pure Ones), enabling the methods of the Dao to be put into practice.

They secretly chant the names of the High Heavens and select spirit officers and divine generals. Even sinners who have fallen into the consequences of their misdeeds may receive pardon.

Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Talismanic Spell of Compilation by Imperial Edict

The Supreme Dao issues the talismanic mandate of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning. The divine wind subsides, and clouds withdraw among the mountains. The Dao of the Primordial Unity is subtle and inexhaustible, in harmony with the original nature of the cosmos. A single Qi flows through all things, nurturing living beings. Those who obey my command will prosper; those who defy it will suffer. The Most High has issued an edict: may all the gods carry it out as though obeying an imperial proclamation.

General Incantation for Summoning Thunder

By edict, the thunder spell summons the Thunder Gods: “Hum”—through Heaven and into Earth; “Zha”—let the might of thunder appear. By the Jade Emperor’s edict, I summon and command you: quickly reveal your true forms. Om, curse and summon; lai ta suo po, summon. Spirit of the Wood Wolf, Spirit of the Fire Bell, Spirit of Thunderclaps, Spirit of Sudden Fire, Spirit of the Fierce Officials, Spirit of Swiftness—by edict, I summon the Thunder Gods: “Hum”—through Heaven and into Earth; “Zha”—let the might of thunder appear. By the Jade Emperor’s edict, I summon and command you: quickly reveal your true forms. Om, curse and summon; lai ta suo po, summon. Spirit of the Wood Wolf, Spirit of the Fire Bell, Spirit of Thunderclaps, Spirit of Sudden Fire, Spirit of the Fierce Officials, Spirit of Swiftness, Spirit of Jade Brilliance, Spirit Who Raises Clouds, Spirit Who Calls the Wind: om, om, by edict, appear at once; Imperial Shepherd, appear at once; by the Emperor’s command, appear at once. Om san man dong na, summon and call the Spirit Who Calls the Wind; quickly depart from the Xun Palace (the direction associated with wind in the Bagua, or Eight Trigrams). By edict of the Three Heavens (the Daoist celestial realms), I, your servant, have been ordered to summon you. Descend at once. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Incantation for Preparing Paper and Brush

All know: ji she su zha, he nuo mi zha, wu du zha, ju qi zha, bi lai di zha, ye wei ruo zha, wu qi zha, ju luo di zha, lao bei mo zha sha. These are syllables in the incantation. “Swiftly, in accordance with the law and command” means that the order must be carried out without delay.

In the Jade Clarity of the Divine Empyrean, the heavenly realm revered by Daoism, jade and gold are kneaded and refined. The Golden Youth forms talismans, and the Jade Maiden embroiders their sacred script. Their radiance shines in all directions, striking fear into ghosts and spirits; they subdue great demons and reveal evil apparitions. They bring stability to Heaven and Earth and cause the righteous Way to flourish. I now write these talismans, wishing long life for all things. The Golden Youth forms the talismans, and the Jade Maiden embroiders their script; their radiance shines far and wide, striking fear into ghosts and spirits; they subdue great demons and reveal evil apparitions, bring stability to Heaven and Earth, and cause the righteous Way to flourish. I now write these talismans, wishing long life for all things. Should anyone dare to defy this command, let them be punished by thunderbolts. Swiftly, in accordance with the law and command.

Condense the void and make it into a sacred, pure realm; the original Qi of life and cultivation will arise of itself. The jade characters written in vermilion are the mysterious script of the Eight Majestic Dragons, used in Daoist talismans and registers. They protect Heaven and Earth, stabilize the cycles of calamity, and ensure the heavens endure. They also cure illness, eliminate evil influences, and bring peace to all beings.

Incantation to the Northern Dipper

The nine stars of the Northern Dipper are great deities dwelling in the center of the sky. They ascend to the Golden Palace of Heaven and look down upon Kunlun, ordering the framework of Heaven and Earth and governing the cosmos. Great Dipper, Greedy Wolf, Giant Gate, Storehouse of Wealth, Literary Song, Integrity and Chastity, Martial Song, and Army Breaker are all names of the Lords of the Northern Dipper. The High Jade Emperor and the Thearch of Purple Tenuity rule over the vast heavens and can also enter the tiniest particle. What disaster cannot be dispelled? What blessing cannot be bestowed? May the righteous Qi of the Primordial Beginning join with my body. The Celestial Dipper, the direction in which the Northern Dipper’s handle points, turns without ceasing, day and night. Though I am an ordinary person living in the mundane world, I cherish the Great Dao and seek its efficacy. May I behold the countenance of the revered deity and preserve my life forever. Lords of the Three Terraces, Empty Essence, Six Purities, and Crooked Life, please nurture me and protect my body. □□□□□□□ Revered Thearch. Swiftly, in accordance with the law and command.

General Command Incantation

The Supreme Thearch’s talismanic command, the pivot of the Northern Dipper; divine light blazes and shines upon the clouds and sky. Six Purities and Crooked Life, please nurture me and protect my body. □□□□□□□ Revered Thearch. Swiftly, in accordance with the law and command.

The divine mandate is governed by the Northern Dipper, the Daoist system of star deities who oversee the turning of the heavens and keep watch. Its sacred radiance shines brilliantly, illuminating the celestial road among the clouds. Original Qi, the primal energy between Heaven and Earth, descends quietly, causing all evil spirits to perish. It protects one’s safety and prosperity, bringing blessings and official emoluments; it dispels disasters and carries one through calamities, immediately removing anything strange that appears. The righteous force of Kui-gang, the star-deity power within the Northern Dipper, sweeps away all evil. The divine mandate descends, enabling one to ascend to Yuxu, the celestial realm in Daoism. By urgent command, in accordance with the statutes!

Spell for the Talisman Decreed by Xuandu

The Most High’s Xuandu, the celestial palace of Daoism, sends down the true talisman of the black statutes. The original Qi of the Five Directions transforms and spreads throughout the eight quarters. Kui Xing clasps his hands; □ Lodge supports the carriage; □ assists, while □□ holds the text. Wherever □ Star points, all evil deeds vanish. Drive away evil spirits and uphold the righteous path; destroy baleful forces and demons. Turn the ill fortune brought by fierce gods and baleful stars into good fortune, and send inauspicious ghosts and demons back to the north. Disasters brought by curses and vengeful sorcery will also vanish at once; misfortune caused by Tai Sui and the Earth Deity will likewise become good fortune. By urgent command, in accordance with the statutes!

Spell for Commanding the Five Soils

Three beams and nine pillars, quickly return to your proper place. Nine pillars and three beams, each return to your original direction. Earth spirits of the Five Directions, evil energy within the soil, disperse. Six commands of the statutes.

Spell for Commanding the Five Soils

Three beams and nine pillars, quickly return to your proper place; nine pillars and three beams, each return to your original direction. Earth spirits of the Five Directions, evil energy within the soil, disperse. Six Jia and six Yi, make the scattered earth energy disperse swiftly; six Bing and six Ding, prevent the scattered soil from causing trouble; six Wu and six Ji, command the earth energy to rise swiftly; six Geng and six Xin, suppress the earth energy and make it subside; six Ren and six Gui, release the earth energy and let it hide of its own accord. Earth Lord and Earth Mother, the deities who govern the land in Daoism, and all manner of ghosts, demons, and spirits: I know your names, and today I give you this warning. May all the spirits come to hear the command; may Heaven and Earth be clear and open. Heaven is round and Earth is square; Heaven has nine pillars, and Earth has nine beams. Disperse and subdue every evil force, sending each back to its proper quarter. Protect the gates and household, so that the home may enjoy lasting peace and good fortune. By urgent command, in accordance with the statutes!

Spell for Prolonging Life and Overcoming Calamity

I pray for a longer life, passage through calamity, and the ability to command the spirits. Increase blessings and dispel disasters; enter my name in the register for overcoming calamity. Drive away misfortune and support what is weakened; with divine power, grant special protection to my body. Examine and oversee the talismans that have been written, making them accord with the divine talismans. The ancient sovereign commands the Seven Luminaries, ruling the seven stars of the Northern Dipper, and commands the hidden spirits of the eight directions. Above, devote yourself to guarding the Original Spirit; below, preserve the soul, the Po, and the vital essence. Make me shine with enduring light like the celestial bodies, and make the Earth everywhere stable and unshaken. By urgent command, in accordance with the statutes!

Spell for Summoning the True Lords of the Dipper

Summon the immortals, and the immortals come; summon the sages, and the sages manifest within my body. The divine beings inspect and record the talismans that have been drawn, which accord with the divine talismans. In ancient times, the Seven Primordial Stars were commanded, and the spirits of the netherworld in the eight directions were made to serve. Above, the primordial spirit is guarded; below, the souls and vital essence are preserved. May there be light as enduring as Heaven’s, and may the Earth be made peaceful everywhere, never to collapse. Act swiftly in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Invocation of the Dipper’s True Powers

Summon the immortals, and the immortals come; summon the sages, and the sages manifest their numinous power. Let this talisman bring forth wondrous transformations and accord with Heaven’s heart. The Nine Sovereigns descend; all things proceed smoothly in accordance with the righteous way.

The Yaoguang star of the Northern Dipper is the Primordial Sovereign who dwells in the middle of Heaven. Among the constellations, one star brings forth the Vermilion Writ. I now respectfully summon you: descend swiftly before the altar.

The Great One of the Northern Dipper is the great holy spirit child. At my every call and summons, the hundred gods respond in succession. Act swiftly in accordance with the statutes and commands.

The Lord of Numinous Breath, who governs pure primordial Qi, holds the jade seal that commands the myriad gods. The Way of light is peaceful and vast, illuminating even the dark and endless night. Mysterious affairs are entrusted to the Upper Dipper; the primordial, mysterious forms of the Beginningless One transform into Qi. The Eight Gates draw in and guide the wandering spirits, who scatter flowers and pay homage to the stellar palaces. Formless and colorless, yet clearly manifest, they can dispel the Four Demons, and the gods return in reverence at a single thought. Act swiftly in accordance with the statutes and commands.

The Kui star and the Seven Stars are condensed from the essence and Qi of divine beings. The two stellar deities, the Assistant and the Supporter, shine forth together with the stars of the Three Terraces. The Jade Maidens of the Six Ding, the Four Generals of Ziwei, Tiangang and Tianyuan, the Eight Cords of Kan Water, and the Four-Eyed Immortals—all bearers of commands—are carried by golden boys. Carry out the command according to the statutes.

Spell for Breaking Open the Hells

Amid the boundless Fengdu, the Daoist realm of the netherworld, rise tier upon tier of diamond mountains. The immeasurable light of Lingbao shines through the hells, where blazing fires torment the soul. The Jade Maidens of the Six Ding, the Four Generals of Ziwei, Tiangang and Tianyuan, the Eight Cords of Kan Water, and the Four-Eyed Immortals—all bearers of commands—are carried by golden boys. Carry out the command according to the statutes.

Amid the boundless Fengdu rise tier upon tier of diamond mountains. The immeasurable light of Lingbao shines through the netherworld, where souls are tormented by scorching fires. The ancestors of seven generations and all the departed souls of the netherworld proceed with the incense smoke and ceremonial banners. Through the power of concentration and wisdom, they ascend upon blue lotus flowers to the divine realms above, where they find everlasting peace.

Spell for Offering Nectar and Dharma Food

How sorrowful: the departed souls suffer through the long, dark night, enduring the burning torments of the Three Evil Paths—the hells, the hungry ghosts, and the animals. Blazing fire scorches their throats, and thoughts of hunger and thirst arise without end. Sprinkle a shower of sweet dew, and may it bring coolness amid the scorching heat. May the souls ascend to the Great Luo Heaven, and may this nectar nourish all beings.

Spell for Rebirth through Dharma Food

The golden radiance transformed from merit and virtue faintly parts the darkness. True fragrance streams from the Flower Pond, while lotus blossoms and jeweled canopies drift with the clouds. Immortal beings gather the primal harmony of Qi and dwell constantly within the Twelve-Storied Tower. Swiftly proclaim the intent of Lingbao, and you may roam freely through heaven.

Incantation for Offering Food through the Flowing Essence of the Three Lights (an incantation invoking the essences of the sun, moon, and stars to become offerings)

The wondrous Dao gives birth to the One Qi, and within the One Qi, Yin and Yang divide. The essences of the sun and moon gather, joining and flowing together as the Three Lights. Nine radiances converge along nine paths; eight colors shine across the eight directions. Their brilliance shines forth and stirs the True Body. The essences flow back to Great Obscurity, transform below into life in the Palace of Deep Springs, and array themselves above in the Land of No-Where. The body releases itself, then takes flight; in an instant, all things forget one another. The Seven Treasures flow, pure and immaculate, blending together within splendid palaces. Consume Five-Hued Cloud Powder, and be peaceful and joyful, with happiness without end.

Incantation for Offering Food through the Flowing Essence of the Three Lights

The wondrous Dao gives birth to the One Qi, and within the One Qi, Yin and Yang divide. The essences of the sun and moon gather, joining and flowing together as the Three Lights. Nine radiances converge along nine paths; eight colors shine across the eight directions. Their brilliance shines forth and moves the True Body. The essences flow back to Great Obscurity, transform below into life in the Palace of Deep Springs, and array themselves above in the Land of No-Where. The body releases itself, then takes flight; in an instant, all things forget one another. The Seven Treasures flow, pure and immaculate, blending together within splendid palaces. Consume Five-Hued Cloud Powder, and be peaceful and joyful, with happiness without end.

Incantation for Offering Food through the Sweet Dew of Jade Clarity (an offering incantation named for the sweet dew of Jade Clarity)

I bow and pay homage, gazing up at the Round Canopy that covers heaven and earth. I gather radiance and embrace numinous light. I bind the hun souls and subdue the seven po souls, directing my thoughts so that my spirit settles at the center. Whether walking, sitting, or lying down, I revere the Void; when resting or sleeping, I dwell at ease in the Mysterious Chamber. When hungry, I eat the flowers of yellow sprouts; when thirsty, I drink the nectar of jade roots. With numinous essence, I command the demons that disrupt life and cultivation, uniting body and mind as I refine and nourish the true light. Once more I contemplate the Great Void, forever roaming within emptiness. I become fully integrated and unobstructed, still the waves, and deliver living beings. True transformation knows no hindrance and has no appointed end. Deep and distant, it has neither beginning nor end; practitioners should understand this. Dwelling in stillness and clarity, I forget names, principles, and doctrines. I respond to the moment and proclaim the laws of the Great Dao. When the Dao descends, it does not reveal itself of its own accord; one must first give. In the end, all return to the same realm, naturally coming together and parting as the heart wills.

Divine Incantation of the Five Kitchens

The primordial Qi (original vital energy before the formation of the cosmos) harmonizes and returns to Great Harmony (the vast, harmonious source), and those who attain the Dao can dwell in peace. Within harmony, do not cling to any particular form of harmony. The subtle principle connects with a realm of boundless mystery. Do not use thought to think, and there is no need to pursue a state of complete thoughtlessness. Thoughts may arise, but do not cling to deliberation; simply cultivate in accordance with the method. Do not use the mind to reach out toward another mind, nor remain in a state of deliberately severing such outward reach.

When thoughts appear, do not cling to either “having a mind” or “having no mind.” The true Dao lies in holding to the deep realm of reality. To refine the will, let go of attachment to the will; even in long practice, do not cling to either practice or non-practice. Let the will act without deliberately shaping it. What has already been done need not be kept constantly in mind. Foods and breaths of many kinds may gather and form Qi; gathering Qi does not require only prolonged meditation. Qi returns to the source of Qi, and just as it is drawn in, it should also be breathed out.

Bathing Incantation

The Divine Water of Great Mystery (a symbol of water for cleansing what is profoundly mysterious) is the source from which the Five Phases first arise. It nourishes all things, and can also wash away what is old and remove filth. When thirsty, drinking it can sustain life; those who suffer after death can scarcely encounter such sweet dew. Without great compassion, who could save and deliver living beings? May it cleanse decayed bodies, enabling them to ascend to the immortal Dao.

Incantation for Bathing and Changing Clothes

The Five Turbidities (the various impurities that cloud body and mind) have been washed away, and the Eight Luminaries (the radiant immortal realms or divine visions within the body described in Daoism) have been revealed. Today, through receiving transformative refinement, sins and karmic burdens diminish, and blessings increase. Clothes, headwear, and shoes are used to arrange one’s appearance. Now that you are dressed and adorned, may we ascend together to Shangqing (the exalted celestial realm revered in Daoism).

Incantation for Summoning the Red Heavenly Lord Yuebei

May even bodies that have decayed be able to ascend to the immortal Dao.

The essence of utmost Yin—the Qi of extreme Yin—gathers and gives rise to Metal and Wood. The Jade Pivot, the office that commands the thunder in Thunder Rites, sends down its decree, and the Great One Thunder Lord, a thunder-department general, carries it out. Bare-bodied and with his hair loose, he ranges freely through the Three Realms. He holds a treasured sword, whose strokes flash like lightning and stream with golden light. The thunder obeys his command, and numerous spirits are at his disposal. With one stroke of the divine sword, evil ghosts are subdued.

Om, hum, hum. We respectfully summon the Nine Heavens’ Flying Dipper, a celestial general of Thunder Rites, to seize evil spirits and unleash thunderbolts. We summon the Lightning-Striking Great One and the Moon-Void Thunder Lord, generals of the thunder department. Yang thunder swiftly descends; Yin thunder swiftly rises. Summon the flash of thunderlight; call forth the roar of the thunderclap. We respectfully summon the Yang Thunder envoys Ma, Guo, Fang, Deng, and Tian, and the Yin Thunder envoys Zhang, Xu, Yao, Lei, and Nan. Carry out the command and bring aid without delay. Upon receiving the talismanic order, arrive at once; strike down your targets with force. Let the vital energies above and below communicate, and swiftly track down and apprehend the evil spirits. Act at once in accordance with the laws and commands.

Incantation for Commanding Thunder and Bringing Rain

Wind rises from the Gate of Xun, the southeast direction in the Eight Trigrams. Thunder shakes the Nine Heavens. Clouds sweep across the sky; the talismanic order for rain must be delivered at once. Strike down your targets with force. Let the vital energies above and below communicate, and swiftly track down and apprehend the evil spirits. Act at once in accordance with the laws and commands.

Incantation for Commanding Thunder and Bringing Rain

Wind rises from the Gate of Xun, and thunder shakes the Nine Heavens. Clouds cross the sky; rain falls upon the courtyard of the palace. Lightning shines with dazzling brilliance, supporting the Daoist rites and opening the way to the realms of the immortals. Act at once in accordance with the laws and commands.

Incantation for Returning the Spirits

The master transmits the highest Daoist teachings and carries out the decree of Heaven’s Mysterious Palace. Once the command has been fulfilled, drive away the source of evil. Return to your original post without delay. Then summon the assembled spirits to return and heed the command of the Primordial Mystery, a Daoist name for the Dao or the highest divinity. Act at once in accordance with the laws and commands.

Incantation for Commanding the Attendant Spirits

The Five Directions and Five Mandates: Heaven belongs to Yang, Earth to Yin. When the energies of Heaven and Earth move in harmony, they can set the spirit of thunder in motion. The Five Talismans’ Primordial Mandates, the □ Dipper and □ Star—characters are missing here in the original, so their specific names cannot be determined—act in accordance with the Way of Heaven and manifest in the unseen depths. Swiftly gather in the true Qi, the subtle vital energy of Daoist teaching, and halt the movement of wind and clouds. Await my command, and the Five Thunders will rush forth. Act at once in accordance with the laws and commands.

Incantation for Commanding Thunder

Thunderlight flashes, thunderlight flashes; the Great One lies hidden in ambush. Taibo carries out the wind command, and the Four-Eyed Bright Elder, a spirit’s title, is present. The Emperor Lord guards the Water Palace; Yang essence casts forth flames. Rain Master, why open the way? Wind Commander, why calm it? Divine might shines like moonlight; the Golden Immortal sets out. Water and fire revolve in their cycles; Hanbo bears the boat upon his back. The Three Officials—of Heaven, Earth, and Water—open the realms of the hidden and the manifest. The Five Emperors, celestial rulers of the Five Directions, convey their messages through the underworld. By the decree of the Most High, the dragon soars and raindrops fall. Act at once in accordance with the laws and commands.

Incantation for Raising Thunder

Thunder and lightning chase one another, taking Heaven and Earth as their eyes. The upright Qi of the eight directions gathers, and lightning flashes in every direction. Thunder-Raising Messenger, within the bounds of my altar, set thunder, lightning, and thunderbolts in motion. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

End of Volume Six of the Supreme Taishang Three Caverns Divine Incantations

The Supreme Taishang Three Caverns Divine Incantations, Volume Seven

Incantations for Prayer, Summoning, and Commanding the Spirits

Talismanic Incantation for Commanding Thunderbolts

Spirits of the Horn and Winnowing Basket lunar mansions, deities of the Jia and Yi directions: raise the waves and stir wind and clouds, so that clouds and thunder arise swiftly. Stars of the Well and Chariot lunar mansions, radiant deities of the Bing and Ding directions: release flying fire, let it soar ten thousand miles, with flames rising in its smoke. Spirits of the Legs and Three Stars lunar mansions, deities of the Geng and Xin directions: wield the ritual bells and summon lightning, so that swords and spears crisscross in every direction. Spirits of the Dipper and Wall lunar mansions, star deities of the Ren and Gui directions: raise towering waves and protect those afflicted by calamity.

Spirits of the celestial realm, numinous powers of water and fire; Thunderbolt Messengers and Fire-Bell Generals; Three-Heaven Strongmen and Sovereign Lords of the Ten Extremes: swiftly unleash thunder and fire, bringing lightning and hail rushing forth. Swinging axes sharp as flying frost, the ranks of the ceremonial guard surge into action. All treacherous spirits, evil ghosts, malign monsters, and demons who seek blood offerings and prey upon living beings, great and small alike, shall be bound by commands of the netherworld and restraints of the human realm. Let all wandering demons be delivered to the Thunder Court for judgment: thousands upon thousands beheaded, tens of thousands stripped of their forms. Obey my command and live; defy it and be destroyed. The slightest resistance is defiance of the command of the Highest Clarity. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Commanding the Spirits

The might of the Red Heaven sweeps like lightning and rushes like a gale. The Great Deity of Command holds a needle hammer and patrols the Three Realms, dimming the sun and moon, darkening the stars, and extinguishing the light of the Northern Dipper. Let all ghosts and apparitions obey at once. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Commanding the Spirits

The might of the Red Heaven sweeps like lightning and rushes like a gale. The Great Deity of Command holds a needle hammer and patrols the Three Realms, dimming the sun and moon, darkening the stars, and extinguishing the light of the Northern Dipper, so that ghosts weep and spirits grieve. Iron wheels and ornamented spears go forth; even mountains are overturned. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Flying Lightning Talismanic Incantation

The crimson sky and fiery clouds shake Heaven and Earth with their might. Above, they subdue the Qi of demons and evil spirits; below, they cut away wicked forces. Lightning blazes, and the wind never ceases. They communicate with the true spirits, manifest transformations, and proceed to pay court to the Emperor. Hasten and execute this as the law commands.

Incantation for Breaking Evil

The Great God of the Command has a body ten thousand zhang tall, blue from head to toe. His might surges into the ranks of clouds, and his voice shakes the thunder. He wields an axe and an awl, summoning the heavenly troops; riding a chariot of raging fire, he burns ghosts and destroys demons. Heaven and Earth meet above and below; he treads upon wheels of fire. Water and fire crisscross, and the fires of Bing and Ding, the Heavenly Stems corresponding to fire, mingle together. The Dark Fiends of the Deep Caverns, the Perfected Ones of Kui and Gang, the Strongmen Who Remove Calamities, and the Generals Who Subdue Demons move as spirits and spread Qi, patrolling the Three Realms.

Near or far, all evil beings hiding in caves, valleys, or springs, at the entrances to waters, or dwelling in plants and trees; earth monsters and stone spirits; and evil gods sealed by the living and commanded by the dead—if they flatter and deceive, demand offerings of blood and flesh, or cruelly torment living beings, their past misdeeds shall be brought to account. Even if they receive a pardon, they shall not be spared. They seize souls and wreak havoc at will; their evil deeds have grown weighty, so they shall all be cut down and not allowed to remain. Let souls return to their bodies and the sick recover their health. Increase blessings and extend life. Uphold the Daoist tradition and spread the transformation of the Dao far and wide. Hasten and execute this as the law commands.

Incantation of the Sacred Sword

Heaven of Qian sends down essence; Earth of Kun responds, bringing numinous peace to all things. Increase blessings and extend life. Uphold the Daoist tradition and spread the transformation of the Dao far and wide. Hasten and execute this as the law commands.

Incantation of the Sacred Sword

Heaven of Qian sends down essence, and Earth of Kun responds to the numinous powers of the sun and moon. Reveal the forms of mountains and rivers, and set thunder and lightning in motion. With primordial essence, destroy the fierce and wicked, turning evil deeds toward flourishing and steadfastness. The Most High, an honorific title for the supreme deity in Daoism, issues a talismanic command whose might reaches the ten directions. Heaven and Earth obey the command, and orders summon the divine kings; none of the life-governing gods of the Three Realms can resist their authority. The true officials of the lands of the Nine Provinces unite their spiritual powers with the true Dao. Set mountains in motion and command the seas; the Water Emperor comes forth to greet and escort them. Send word to the Five Heavenly Emperors, bidding them protect the cosmic cycle and ensure its continuity. The stars of the heavens, too, come of their own accord to assist and bring prosperity. Hasten and execute this as the law commands.

Incantation of the Dragon Talisman

The golden dragon who commands divine thunder takes form in the heavens. The Immortals and Perfected Ones of the water palaces of the Nine Rivers and Five Lakes give rise to thunder and lightning and command the spirits of the underworld. They ride the wind, hurl fire, and command the heavenly troops; soaring through the clouds, they reach the depths of the hidden heavens. They wield mighty spiritual powers and transformations, and command the Six Jia and Six Ding, the Daoist guardian generals. By the Emperor’s talismanic command, they come to rescue and protect; they must not linger. Hasten and execute this as the law commands.

Incantation of the Messenger of Taiyi

The Azure-Spirit Qi of Heaven commands the sun, moon, and stars. The Five Dippers, the Five Planets, and the Jade Pivot and Jade Balance, which govern the movement of celestial phenomena, all await its orders. The Flying-Step Messenger, clad in iron armor and mighty in divine power, raises Mount Tai with his left hand and holds the Kunlun Mountains in his right. Wherever the true talisman arrives, it can destroy countless ghosts and demons. If any dare resist, let them be reduced to specks of dust. The command must be carried out at once, as swiftly as a statute.

Incantation of the Two Messengers of Taiyi

The northern region is deep and vast; within its ten thousand miles, divine lords are present everywhere. The seven stars of the Northern Dipper and the Seven Regulators—the celestial order revealed through the movements of heavenly bodies—are mysterious and unfathomable. The Flying-Step Messenger, clad in iron armor and mighty in divine power, commands the spirits of the Five Sacred Peaks on his left and the Six Ding—the six yin spirits of Daoist teaching—on his right. Wherever the Direct Talisman Bearer, the divine general charged with conveying talismanic commands, arrives, dust rises into the air. The command must be carried out at once, as swiftly as a statute.

Incantation of the Two Messengers of Taiyi

The northern region is deep and vast; within its ten thousand miles, divine lords are present everywhere. The seven stars of the Northern Dipper and the Seven Regulators are mysterious and unfathomable. The Flying-Step Messenger, clad in iron armor and mighty in divine power, commands the spirits of the Five Sacred Peaks on his left and the Six Ding on his right. Wherever the Direct Talisman Bearer arrives, thunder crashes. If any dare resist, let them be reduced to specks of dust. The command must be carried out at once, as swiftly as a statute.

Incantation of the Three Messengers of Taiyi

The waters are deep and dark, guarded by the Dragon Lords of the Five Sacred Peaks. The Three Terraces—three groups of celestial stars—and the Flower Canopy Star bestow vast divine power. The Flying-Step Messenger, clad in iron armor and mighty in divine power, is joined by the Five Ding, divine generals who devour evil spirits in great gulps at the center, bringing solemn purity to Heaven and Earth. Wherever the Direct Talisman Bearer arrives, he swiftly cuts down demons and spirits. If any dare resist, let them be reduced to specks of dust. The command must be carried out at once, as swiftly as a statute.

Incantation for Driving Away Wind

Taiyi’s Bright Yang, the radiant form of the deity Taiyi, is the essence of the Six Jia. The Vast Messenger stirs up fierce winds, sending sand and stones flying and dust rushing about, and soars through the sky for ten thousand miles. General Shaoyang must obey as soon as the talismanic command arrives, without delay or hesitation. The command must be carried out at once, as swiftly as a statute.

Incantation for Raising Clouds

Taiyi’s essential Qi is the spirit of the Six Yin. The Cloud-Mist Messenger, a divine general responsible for raising clouds and spreading mist, gathers thick clouds to cover the waters in every direction. The Sweeping Messenger stirs up fierce winds, sending sand and stones flying and dust rushing about, and soars through the sky for ten thousand miles. General Shaoyang must obey as soon as the talismanic command arrives, without delay or hesitation. The command must be carried out at once, as swiftly as a statute.

Incantation for Raising Clouds

Taiyi’s essential Qi is the spirit of the Six Yin. The Cloud-Mist Messenger gathers thick clouds to cover the waters in every direction, encompassing all the myriad ghosts. General Shaoyang: as soon as the talismanic command arrives, it must be obeyed without delay or hesitation. The command must be carried out at once, as swiftly as a statute.

Incantation for Driving Thunder

The Perfected One Taiyi is the spirit of the Six Yang. The Chariot of Fire Messenger brings rolling thunder that resounds for ten thousand miles. General Shaoyang must obey as soon as the talismanic command arrives, without delay or hesitation. The command must be carried out at once, as swiftly as a statute.

Flying Thunder Incantation:

Within the dark and mysterious Qi of Taiyi (a Daoist deity) lies the essence of the Fire of Bing and Ding. The Lightning Messenger shines upon Heaven and Earth. General Shao Chang’s power is vast, reaching ten thousand li in a single stroke. Once the talismanic command arrives, it must be carried out as ordered, without delay. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Rain-Driving Incantation:

The numinous essence of the Supreme One’s Cinnabar Origin and the Zhen constellation (a stellar mansion) transforms into the Messenger of Moisture, spreading Heaven’s grace far and wide. General Shaoyang’s power flies across ten thousand li. Once the talismanic command arrives, it must be carried out as ordered, without delay. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Hail-Scattering Incantation:

The jade radiance and primordial essence of Taiyi of the North Pole transform into the Messenger of Water and Hail. Thunder strikes and winds surge, its power extending across ten thousand li. When General Shaoyang receives the talismanic command, he must carry it out as ordered, without delay. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Incantation of Thunderclaps in Formation:

Taiyi Tianchong is a deity who governs striking and warfare. The Thunderclap Messenger moves with boundless speed, and its fiery light shines across ten thousand li. When General Shaoyang receives the talismanic command, he must carry it out as ordered, without delay. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Taiyi Tianchong is a deity who governs striking and warfare. The Thunderclap Messenger moves with boundless speed, and its fiery light shines across ten thousand li. When General Shaoyang receives the talismanic command, he must carry it out as ordered, without delay. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Wood-Lang Incantation for Praying for Clear Skies:

By command of the Five Thunders, who govern thunder, command the generals and officers, and assist the assembled gods: with this true talisman, I respectfully address the Thunder Deity. Immediately withdraw the clouds and stop the rain; do not let the steady drizzle continue without end. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Wood-Lang Incantation II:

By command, let the Three Offices (Daoist divine bureaus) open Heaven’s Gate, withdraw the clouds, and stop the rain, restoring the weather to normal. Let the Five Thunders swiftly carry out Heaven’s command and immediately end the unceasing rain. Do not disobey the order. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Wood-Lang Incantation III:

Wood-Lang, deity of the Jade Palace of Yuqing, obeys Heaven’s command and withdraws the drifting clouds. Disperse the gloom and stop the rain without hesitation; let the sun shine and the sky grow clear. If the command is not obeyed, punishment will follow. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Wood-Lang Incantation IV:

The Five Emperors of the Five Directions and the White Thunder Lord send divine power sweeping across the sky like flying clouds. Withdraw the mist and clouds, and make the sky clear and bright; let the sunlight appear, disperse the gloom, and stop the rain at once. If the command is not obeyed, punishment will follow. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

The Five Directional Emperors (the celestial emperors who guard the five directions), the White Thunder Lord, and the Flying Cloud Spirit all wield awe-inspiring power, towering over the vast heavens. They raise the mists and gather in the clouds, restoring clarity to the sky; the sun shines high at the center of heaven, dispelling the darkness. You must obey this command at once. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Incantation of the True Form of Swift Fire

Great spirit who governs the commands under the statutes of thunder! Thunderfire darts with fierce speed, and lightning follows close at hand. You wield the power of the Heavenly Virtue and the Lunar Virtue, and are supremely efficacious and mighty. You command the seventy-two divisions of spirits, the Water Emperor’s dragon essence, the thunder spirits, and the blazing spirits of heavenly fire. Do not delay or hesitate; answer my wrath. Wind and fire rush downward, and lightning gathers into a divine wheel. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Legacy Incantation of Swift Fire

Black clouds surge and churn, while flames and lightning flash. The Spirit of Light descends with radiance, and the power of thunder rises with it. Thunder crashes, accompanied by wind and rain; demons bow their heads, and mountains collapse. Command the divine generals of the Thunder Bureau to unleash their great power, as Scarlet Heaven’s Swift Fire strides across the sky. Order the dragons to obey the talismanic command at once.

Oath Incantation of Swift Fire

Great spirit who governs the statutes of thunder, the Great One (a revered Daoist deity) holds the true Dao within. Five chariots and eight horses form ranks; the might of thunder can destroy all things. The Supreme Emperor has issued an edict, commanding you to support me, your servant. Reveal your divine radiance and lightning, and manifest your true form without delay. If you dare disobey or delay, you betray the original covenant; if I betray you, may I never know peace.

“Om,” “hum,” and the like are syllables of esoteric incantations; some characters in the original are missing and cannot be deciphered. Subdue the thunder spirits. With the incantatory sounds “om,” “hum,” and the like, command all the spirits to obey. “Om,” “ji,” and other such sounds. In solemn obedience to the Jade Emperor’s edict: let the thunder of heaven and the thunder of earth shake together, their mighty sound resounding in all eight directions; destroy the altar and break open the grotto, with power reaching the celestial granary. Thunder Lord, Thunder Mother, Wind Earl, and Rain Master, hear my summons and descend at once before the altar. Help me cut down evil spirits and destroy the wicked and treacherous. I pray for clear skies or rainfall, to aid the dead and deliver departed souls. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Incantation of the Five Thunder Steps

When I take the first step, the heavenly thunder shakes; with the second, the waters of the earth flow through; with the third, thunder and fire are set in motion; with the fourth, the sound of a thunderclap carries far; with the fifth, I summon the Five Thunder Envoys. Ask them to clear away evil ahead and drive out the dragon that commits misdeeds behind. Spirits, spirits, ascend to the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing, the highest divine realm revered in Daoism). Five Thunders and Lord of Wind, let thunder and lightning carry out the command. Following the star-step pattern, come here and stand before me. Sunlight, sunlight, sweep away evil and misfortune for me. Carry this out at once in accordance with the law.

Incantation for Summoning the Sudden Fire

Great Deity of Command, revered lord of wind and fire: your merit and practice are vast. Follow the star-step pattern here and come stand before me. Sunlight, sunlight, sweep away evil and misfortune for me. Carry this out at once in accordance with the law.

Incantation for Summoning the Sudden Fire

Great Deity of Command, revered lord of wind and fire: your power is profound. You can fly freely between heaven and earth; slay demons and banish evil, destroy sins, seize ghosts and spirits, and gather in souls. In an instant you bring rain; in a moment you clear the skies. You carry out the commands of the Supreme Emperor and are the Primordial Lord who governs the Fire Department. You wield wind and hurl fire, and can also gather water into masses and draw clouds together. When the Thunder Duke and Lightning Mother appear, they strike terror in the darkness; when thunderclaps sound, they can be heard ten thousand li away. At the summons of this incantation, descend through the Xun Gate, the southeast direction in the Bagua (Eight Trigrams). Make sand fly and stones rise, shake Kunlun; govern the Five Directions and the five Qi (vital energies that move through the five directions), command thunder, and subdue the spirits; lead the fire generals and destroy demonic forces; protect all living beings and save the people. By the command of Jade Clarity, one of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing), Five Thunder Swift Generals and True Marshal Lords, carry out this order without delay. Carry this out at once in accordance with the law.

Oath to the Thunder Incantation

Thunder gods, mighty and awe-inspiring, your radiant power shines ten thousand li. Sweep away demons and evil, drive out ill omens. The Supreme Emperor has issued a command; come to my side at once. Destroy their caves and bring them down; slay the ghosts and make them perish. Call back the souls and return them to their bodies; heal the sick and restore them to health. I once swore a blood oath to Heaven to aid those in calamity. Carry this out at once in accordance with the law.

Thunder Command Incantation

Thunder gods of the Five Directions, I know that you can slay ghosts and make them perish; call back the souls and return them to their bodies; heal the sick and restore them to health. I once swore a blood oath to Heaven to aid those in calamity. Carry this out at once in accordance with the law.

Thunder Command Incantation

Five-direction Thunder Gods, who guard the east, south, west, north, and center: I know all your names. At my call, you come at once, swift as lightning and brandishing your whips like thunder. The iron-faced envoy shines with majesty and awe-inspiring power. You relieve the people’s suffering and destroy demons and wicked spirits. At the sound of an invocation, you respond immediately, and all the gods obey your command. You govern the Thunder Ministry, drive the fire chariot, and wield the fire bell. You command the Six Ding and Six Jia, the Daoist protective generals, along with the Thunder Generals and Thunder Soldiers. Your divine power changes in countless ways; let your heart remain unafraid. You have sworn to aid the people and act on Heaven’s behalf, making your divine might manifest so that all things proceed smoothly and reach their proper end. “Swiftly, in accordance with the statute” is a common closing phrase in Daoist talismans and incantations, meaning that the command must be carried out without delay.

Incantation of the Oath of a Hundred Transformations

Brave divine officers of the Three Realms—the Great God of Sudden Fire. You were the protecting general during the reign of Xuanyuan. On the wu-wu day of the fifth month, you ascended to the Southern Palace and became the principal deity in charge of the fire command, able to transform Heaven and Earth. You make thunder resound and ascend through the air in fire, riding a dragon through clouds and mist, with the Yellow Spirit Talisman at your side. You patrol the directions of wu and ji and travel through the lands of bing and ding. Prepare pure tea and clean water, and burn peach incense. Draw my true likeness and record my true form. At the call for my divine power to manifest, I shall descend.

You govern the Thunder Ministry, drive the fire chariot, and wield the fire bell. Under your command are the Fire-Headed Strongmen, the Six Jia and Six Ding, the Black Fiends of the Caverns and Abysses, generals of Daoist thunder rites, along with the Thunder Generals and Thunder Soldiers. You patrol the Three Realms and rise and descend with me. Your power can dry up rivers and drain the seas; you can also hurl blazing fire and melt metal and stone. You ride the fire chariot of burning strikes as thunder roars. You break open caverns and punish wicked shrines, slay monsters and destroy evil spirits, pursue and seize souls, and display your mighty divine power. You wield an axe and awl; your face is iron and your eyes are bronze. You can settle grudges and undo entanglements, disperse curses, drive out pestilence, and destroy demons. You relieve the people’s suffering, restore the sick to health, and bring prosperity and flourishing to all things.

May your creative power accord with mine; the Jade Emperor shall record my name for this. The exalted Perfected Ones of the Three Palaces and Five Offices are all present, and I attend and wait upon you at your side. If anyone falsely claims or violates my oath, thunder and fire shall burn them to ashes. If you break your oath to me, Heaven’s punishment shall also fall upon you: you shall suffer the torment of wind-blades, and the Six Heavens shall cut away your form. Swear your oath to Heaven with blood, and never forget the covenant. “Swiftly, in accordance with the statute”: let the command be carried out without delay.

Incantation of the Oath of Universal Aid

The Fierce Thunder General, the God of Sudden Fire, who governs thunder and lightning and displays his might through blazing flames, served as a general in the age of the Yellow Emperor. He died in battle against Chiyou and distinguished himself through his valor. The Jade Emperor therefore commanded him to govern thunder and lightning. He spreads both wings, sending flames bursting forth; his teeth are like sharp swords, and his scorching fire burns fiercely. His eyes blaze like fire, lighting up Heaven and Earth. When angered, he can make the seas boil and mountains collapse. Riding a chariot of fire and accompanied by thunderclaps, he strikes fear into evil and rebellious beings. He can reduce wood and stone to powder and burn iron to dust; he destroys the lairs of demons, burns down shrines to evil forces, and slays malevolent spirits.

He is also charged with driving away wasting illnesses, lurking corpse spirits (malignant energy associated with the dead), and lingering sickness, and with dispelling epidemics and calamities. A phrase in the scripture, “wen gua dao ruan K qu fen,” appears to be corrupt and cannot be interpreted with certainty. The God of Sudden Fire can resolve enmities and untangle conflicts, freeing people from entanglements. He can also avert legal troubles and settle lawsuits, helping people through calamity.

Record my true form and recite my name. Burn my talisman so that I may manifest. At your call, I will come at once, following your voice without hindrance. Be at ease; do not be afraid. I vow to aid the people and dispel every kind of disaster. Changing my form, I travel through the Three Realms to save living beings. Evil ghosts and treacherous spirits dare not attack; at one furious glance from me, all malign forces are overturned. Act with all haste, in accordance with the statutes. (A phrase in Daoist talismans and incantations commanding that an order be carried out immediately.)

The Universal Salvation Incantation, a prayer for the universal deliverance of living beings.

Fierce officers of thunder and the mighty gods of sudden fire—the generals of thunder and fire—the Lord of Thunder and the Lady of Lightning, the Earl of Wind and the Master of Rain, Marshal Shaoyang, the Iron-Faced General, and the envoys of the Five Directions’ barbarian thunder are all to obey my command. I have long since received the Daoist tradition’s decree, taken charge of the Celestial Emperor’s talismanic mandates, and assumed the office of thunder, charged specifically with destroying evil. You gods of thunder, spirits of wind and rain, marshals and generals, and envoys of the Five Directions: all of you are to obey my command.

Carry out the orders and come to my aid: cut down demons and monsters, dispel epidemics; cure chronic and deep-rooted illness, and settle grudges and entanglements; avert disasters and misfortune, and release those in bonds. Free from prison those seized by officials and ghosts and plunged into suffering. Destroy wicked temples, burn licentious shrines, and seal off forests, mountains, caves, and grottoes. Seize demons and phantoms, pursue and capture the souls of the dead, and relieve the people’s suffering. Whenever anyone prays for help, do all you can to assist them. Let wind and fire never cease, and let each of you fulfill your appointed duty.

I solemnly swear, in accordance with the covenant of the Mystery, taking blood in pledge. You must not disobey the Jade Emperor’s decree. Go swiftly and return swiftly; display the full might of thunder. I stand before the ritual altar, sword in hand, awaiting an immediate sign of your response.

Incantation of Vast Response

The Supreme Emperor issues the decree; the Thunder Ancestor makes the covenant. The Sudden Fire of the Central Heaven and the mighty god of Commandments blaze with fire throughout their bodies, their forms towering like blue divine statues ten thousand feet high. Their divine breath surges straight into the ranks of clouds, and their voices shake the Court of Thunder. They wield axe and drill, summoning the heavenly troops to assemble. They answer one another above and below, treading upon wheels of fire. Water and fire surge in every direction, as the Perfected Ones of Kui and Gang, the warriors who dispel calamities, and the generals who subdue demons all set out together.

Break spells and curses; help people pass through calamity and eliminate disaster. Settle disputes brought about by official documents, and keep harm from approaching the body. Drive away epidemics, insect plagues, and illnesses that spread from one family member to another. Subdue the evil ghosts and wicked spirits in mountain cliffs, caves, and valleys. What is called “a divine fetus and ghost pregnancy” must also be reduced to dust. The spirits move and spread divine breath throughout the four quarters of Heaven and Earth; they issue commands to support the state and save the people. Display divine might to the fullest and mete out punishment far and wide. With the Emperor’s decree in hand, range freely across ten thousand miles; bring an immediate response, and let wind and fire never cease. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

The spirit of Mount Tai descends by command, wielding thunder to strike down the wicked as thunder crashes. The eastern Azure Thunder sends forth azure flames and rises as azure thunder, destroying the eastern Azure Plague and the essence of decayed wood. The Gong tone, one of the Five Tones and associated here with Wood among the Five Phases, curses my enemy, turning all wood spirits and wood demons in mountain crags, valleys, and caves to dust.

The southern Crimson Thunder sends forth crimson flames and rises as crimson thunder, destroying the southern Crimson Plague and the essence of blazing fire. The Shang tone, one of the Five Tones and associated here with Metal among the Five Phases, curses my enemy, turning all fire spirits and fire demons in mountain crags and caves to dust.

The western White Thunder sends forth white flames and rises as white thunder, destroying the western White Plague and the essence of dead metal. The Jue tone, one of the Five Tones and associated here with Wood among the Five Phases, curses my enemy, turning all metal spirits and metal demons in mountain crags and caves to dust.

The northern Black Thunder sends forth black flames and rises as black thunder, destroying the northern Black Plague and the essence of polluted pools. The Zhi tone, one of the Five Tones and associated here with Fire among the Five Phases, curses my enemy, turning all water spirits and water demons in mountain crags and caves to dust.

The central Yellow Thunder sends forth yellow flames and rises as yellow thunder, destroying the central Yellow Plague and the essence of dung and soil. The Yu tone, one of the Five Tones and associated here with Water among the Five Phases, curses my enemy, turning all earth spirits and earth demons in mountain caves and valleys to dust.

The Great God of Sudden Fire, who commands the heavenly thunder and fire and carries out orders, scatters primordial Qi and commands divine generals. Thunder rises and fire blazes; clouds are drawn together and smoke and flames kindle, as lightning and hail pour down and thunder crashes. The Year Star in the Zhen Palace (the East) unleashes thunder; the Fire Star in the Li Palace (the South) kindles flames. The Metal Star in the Dui Palace (the West) stirs up clouds; the Water Star in the Kan Palace (the North) brings rain; and the Earth Star at the center stirs up wind, sweeping away every ill omen.

Wherever I walk or sit, the Lord of the Taiyi and Yuebei stars brings down thunder and lightning, destroying demonic Qi, the lingering Qi left by the dead, and all manner of calamity. Heavenly fire, earthly fire, and Samadhi True Fire, the true fire spoken of in Daoism, shine together upon the thunder of the five directions, setting the stars in motion and raising thunder. The Fire Gods Wen, Zhao, Zhu, Ma, and Chen are commanded to destroy gods who violate the Dao. Demons of every rank are battered by thunder and their forms destroyed by lightning. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the law and command!

Primordial Beginning manifests as the awe-inspiring power that commands the Five Thunders. It opens Heaven and Earth and subdues the fearsome stars. Ranks of blazing fire and hosts of yakshas—fierce spirits and demons—arrive together. They have four heads and eight arms, huge mouths and golden eyes, and rise ten thousand feet high, devouring demons and strange creatures. A breath from them brings wind and rain; their shouts shake the thunder. The Thunder Lord unleashes thunderclaps, the Lightning Mother casts golden light, and wind and thunder surge until Heaven and Earth grow dark.

They slay flood dragons and cut down monsters without rest, day or night. The celestial gods fold their hands and obey; the earth spirits come to welcome and serve them. The celestial signs above the nine heavens, the sun, moon, and stars, and the flying god-kings all heed their commands. Below the nine earths, the mountains and rivers, springs and sources, and realms of the dead—including Beidu Luofeng, the legendary capital of the underworld; the Four Dark Deeps of Dongyuan; and the terrestrial and aquatic bureaus—keep close watch on the movements of the ghostly host.

The spirits constantly follow the righteous Dao and nurture all living beings. If evil forces commit wrongs and harm the living, the summoned thunder, called forth by talismanic command, carries out its orders: it slays and burns them until they become dust. Its divine might cannot be resisted, and its judgment cannot be escaped. The spirits aid the people and deliver the world from suffering, and so they are ranked among the nine heavens. The heavens sing their names, and their divine power grows ever greater. Their might shakes the Three Realms, and they command the myriad spirits; when they strike down demons and monsters, thunder, lightning, and stars rush to their aid.

The following passage lists a series of syllables and divine names, such as “Poluoweiyun,” “Danlichuihui,” and “Aquchengai.” These are mysterious taboo names or ritual sounds within the incantation. The chanter recites them as they appear in the original to summon the thunder generals. At the end, it says that reciting and upholding this incantation ten thousand times brings one into accord with the spirits and aligns one with the radiance of the sun and moon, strengthening the spirits’ protection. This scripture should be recited on Ren and Gui days and during the Zi and Hai hours. The true spirits will grant protection, enabling the reciter to unite with the Dao and attain its truth. The ritual concludes with “Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands,” meaning that the order is to be carried out without delay.

“Incantation for Quelling Demons”

The nine kinds of primordial Qi (the fundamental breath between Heaven and Earth) of the Nine Heavens converge, and a million celestial troops come at their command. Above, they command the heavenly demons; below, they survey the netherworld. A thousand deities clasp their hands and obey, while ten thousand kinds of demons lead the way and clear a path. They can swallow stars and devour the moon; they are revered deities who command the Three Realms. Blazing fire bursts from their mouths, and they unleash molten-gold fire bells. Thunder, lightning, wind, and rain strike together as blades and swords flash in every direction. The deities protect the household with their divine powers and bring it prosperity. Demons cannot intrude; ghosts, monsters, and spirits vanish without a trace. Plagues and evil influences retreat, and the ritual altar grows still and pure. The Five Thunder Divine Generals guard the residence. The Great Emperor of Jade issues his decree: show no leniency; obey the statutes and act at once.

Incantation for Gathering All

Yin spirits gather, and Heaven and Earth tremble and darken. Their divine powers are vast; they can swallow the sun and devour the stars. The Qi of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing) fills them, and the divine spirits of the Five Emperors are pure and upright. They command the Three Realms and govern thunder. The local earth deities of the Nine Provinces stand ready for dispatch, and those in every direction, east and west, can be put to service. The true deities of the Five Lakes, the Four Seas, and the Twelve Streams, the spirits assigned to the regions of mountains and rivers, and the deities of famed mountains and grotto-heavens—all must come at the command. So too must the spring spirits, the officials of the underworld, and the Nine Earths and their nine spirits. Above, they attend court at the Golden Palace, where the Celestial Emperor resides; below, they save the people of the mortal world. The great deities beneath the Three Heavens and of the Five Sacred Peaks, along with the water palaces of the Four Rivers, must all be summoned by name, one by one. Those who defy the thunder command will be punished; those who obey it will live. With the Jade Emperor’s righteous Qi, refine and command the thunder, dispel evil, slay demons, and save all beings. Obey the statutes and act at once.

Incantation of Awe-Inspiring Power

The thunder deities of the heavens are revered gods who command the Three Realms. Their might shakes even the Supreme Emperor, and they execute the wicked. Whether in Heaven or on Earth, or in the northern capital of the netherworld, they can subdue demons and monsters and pursue and seize wandering souls. The Three Realms act on their command—who would dare disobey? The fierce officers of the Five Thunders rush forth like thunderbolts.

Incantation for Fierce Demon Kings

The thunder deities of the heavens are revered gods who command the Three Realms. Their might shakes even the Supreme Emperor, and they execute the wicked. Whether in Heaven or on Earth, or in the northern capital of the netherworld, they can subdue demons and monsters and pursue and seize wandering souls. The Three Realms act on their command—who would dare disobey? The fierce officers of the Five Thunders rush forth like thunderbolts. The demon kings bow their heads, and ghosts, monsters, and evil spirits are wiped from sight. The deities uphold the Dao and save the people; the Perfected Ones in Heaven recommend them, and the gods on Earth come forth to welcome them. Obey the statutes and act at once.

Incantation of Awe-Inspiring Brilliance

The Mighty Divine General is a Thunder Deity commanded by the Lord on High. Flames blaze ahead to clear the way, while heavenly troops guard behind. Wind, thunder, rain, hail, and lightning roar together. Wherever demons and evils appear, cut them down; wherever ghosts and monsters appear, make them vanish. The Thunder Duke, Lightning Mother, Wind Earl, and Rain Master all obey the Jade Emperor’s decree and must not delay. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Thunderbolt Divine General Incantation

The Three Primordial Lords and Nine Elders, deities of the heavenly realm, emerged through differentiation from the primordial Qi. Heavenly troops number in the tens of millions, capturing demons, monsters, spirits, and evil beings. The Mighty Spirit leads ten thousand companies of soldiers and horses, while the yakshas number in a thousand hosts. They devour and eliminate demons and evils, destroy wrongdoing, and command the myriad deities. The Jade Emperor issues his command to protect and save the people, make evil spirits bow their heads, and bring peace and long life to the human world. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Water Essence Incantation

Water deity, water deity, you are the essence of the Five Qi, the five primordial energies that make up all things in Heaven and Earth. You flow through the Three Realms, connecting a hundred passes and crossings. Draw away the poison of fire and drive back the Fire Deity. Your divine Qi surges vast and powerful. Water Qi flows into the stomach and the five viscera, clearing the spirit and settling the hun and po souls. Sweep away the myriad demons, moisten the body, and benefit both body and mind. The Jade Emperor issues his command to subdue the Fire Star. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Fire-Subduing Incantation

The Jade Emperor issues his command: summon the Thunder Deity to subdue the Fire Star and follow my orders. You receive the mandate of Heaven and command the myriad spirits; pursue and seize souls, and subdue the essence of fire. You are the sovereign of the Sun Palace and a revered deity of the Star Court. By the Jade Emperor’s command, I protect and save the people. Holding Fulu, I guard the ritual altar. Whoever refuses to obey shall be cut down with the sword and destroyed by fire. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Untying Grudges and Entanglements

Untangle every bond between Heaven and Earth, and between Yin and Yang, and release the fixations and attachments left by the parents of past lives. The grievances and entanglements involving seven generations of ancestors and eight generations of adversaries, along with those caused by curses, must all be released. So too must the entanglements formed through curses among one’s parents and in-laws in this life.

All debts of life and death, and all enmities formed between people, must be resolved. The debts of love between men and women, secret affairs, and the resentments and attachments that arise from them must also be released. Complaints, curses, and oaths born of resentment—whether made beside the kitchen stove or before the gods and Buddhas—must all be dispelled.

The calamities and entanglements caused in mountain caves by wicked gods, evil ghosts, and demons must also be released. So too must the grudges and fixations carried over from past lives that involve the Blood Lake, the Narrow Stone Gorge, and the Thirty-Six Departments and Seventy-Two Clerks—the underworld officials who manage its records.

Whether already released or not, all must be released at once, without delay. If they remain unresolved, and you delay or defy the command and talismanic order, the Iron-Faced Thunder God will show no mercy: your evil form will be destroyed, your evil vital energy severed, and you will be struck with the thunder axe until reduced to ashes. Carry this out at once, in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation to Urge Birth, the Five Thunders

With the first step, heavenly thunder sounds; with the second, earth, water, and wind stir into motion; with the third, thunder crashes; with the fourth, lightning strikes through; with the fifth, the Five Thunder Envoys are set to work. Before me, with sincere intent, I dispel the poison of harmful spirits; behind me, I drive away the wicked dragons that cause trouble. Spirits, spirits, carry this plea up to the heavenly court. The Five Thunders and Fengbo (the god who governs the wind) unleash their power together, as thunder and lightning surge. I tread the Thunder-Bearing Steps, Daoist ritual steps such as the Bugang and Tado, making the myriad ghosts vanish without a trace. I destroy caves and attack illicit shrines, behead demons, and annihilate spirits.

When Yin and Yang unite and the ten months have run their course, the child should be born—why delay? Drive evil influences from the infant and cleanse the blood of demonic afflictions. Suppress and dissipate the demons; clear away the conditions that give rise to malign spirits. Sweep away the signs of childbirth calamity, such as the Blood Lake and the Stone Gorge, without pause. Immediately distinguish the divine embryo from a ghostly pregnancy. Let the parents from past lives leave the laboring woman; let former adversaries part from one another, and let curses no longer entangle them. Let the child be born quickly and safely, with the afterbirth delivered as well. Whether labor is easy or difficult, let it flow smoothly, like water pouring forth.

On an auspicious day and at a propitious hour, the bright star Chang Geng, the planet Venus, shines down. The ten months have passed; why has the child not yet been born? Siming, the god who governs people’s records of destiny, stands at the gate; Taiyi, a Daoist deity, is in the courtyard. They assess each person’s allotted fate, and all the gods come to receive their orders. May the Lord of the Nine Heavens bestow good fortune, record blessings and prosperity, and determine the years of life. Issue the command at once. Whether the child has already been born or not, let the birth come soon and safely.

Father Jia and mother Yi, may parents and children alike be at peace. Let debts cease to burden them, and let both sides of old grievances be released. Untie the knots within the womb and drive away calamity. Save the people who face danger in childbirth, and bring mother and child to peace and flourishing life. The Six Ding and Six Jia, Daoist protective generals, the Fire-Headed Vajra, the Thunderclap officials and soldiers, and the Mighty Sword Divine Kings must all obey the command. Cast flames as far as ten thousand li; let lightning sweep through the eight directions. O sun, O sun, join me in cleansing away evil and misfortune. Those who obey the thunder command shall live; those who defy it shall perish. Carry it out at once, without delay.

Incantation for Delivering a Safe Birth

True Thunder of the Jade Direction, Lord Thunder and Mother Lightning, the True King, Master of Fire, and the many thunder gods, together with Fengbo and Yushi, the Rain Master: all obey my command. Destroy evil caves, attack illicit shrines, drive away evil and cure illness; behead demons, annihilate spirits, and untie the knots within the womb. Open the way for Yin and Yang, so that mother and child may both be safe. Bring auspiciousness at the time of birth, as thunder issues the command. Let each respond to the other in the space of a breath, carrying out this order on Heaven’s behalf. Carry it out at once, without delay.

Incantation for Loosening the Knot of Birth

By the command of Heaven, loosen the bonds between the child and the mother, so that Yin and Yang may flow freely and mother and child remain safe. May the birth proceed smoothly when labor begins. At Heaven’s command, the gods of thunder carry out their orders, bringing the mother and child’s breathing into harmony. I transmit Heaven’s command: carry it out at once according to the laws.

Incantation for Loosening the Knot of Birth

Heaven’s mandate is efficacious; Earth’s decree is clear. Thunderous power rises, and swift, fierce divine fire blazes. Thunderclaps erupt, and fiery clouds surge forth; clouds roar, and lightning streaks across the sky. Heaven and Earth quake, and the celestial troops obey their orders. Loosen the bonds around the child; cut away the evil impurities in the blood and Qi. Sever the ties that bind the swaddled infant. Let the mother give birth at once, and keep both mother and child safe. Answer my command swiftly; heed my voice at once. To defy my decree even slightly is to defy the Highest Clarity (Shangqing), the revered heavenly realm of Daoism. Carry it out at once according to the laws.

Incantation for Clearing the Way

A fiery crystal, a flying crow; a phoenix’s beak, a dragon’s scales. Let the talisman fly along the road ahead and cut away the Qi of demons and evil spirits. If demonic beings cause trouble, sever their tracks and destroy their forms. Wherever divine might reaches, it devours ghosts and vanquishes spirits. Carry it out at once according to the laws.

Incantation to Hasten Birth

Great Spirit Who Oversees Birth, divine officer who presides over childbirth; Soul-Hastening Boy and Lords of the Seven Po (Daoist divine titles), by the Shangdi’s decree, protect the mother’s body. Cut down evil spirits and let the child be born swiftly. Carry it out at once according to the laws.

Incantation for Delivering a Stillborn Child

If you are my child, why have you died before your time? If you hold a grievance against me, you should not harm me without cause. Child of the Most High, guarded by the Northern Emperor: let the child be born swiftly and bring down no calamity. Gates of Heaven and locks of Earth, open at once. Let the principles of Heaven and Earth flow freely, and let my Daoist magic manifest. Quickly release this grievance; do not harm me without cause. Child of the Most High, guarded by the Northern Emperor: let the child be born swiftly and bring down no calamity. Gates of Heaven and locks of Earth, open at once. Let the principles of Heaven and Earth flow freely, and let my Daoist magic manifest. Carry it out at once according to the laws.

Incantation to Ward Off Fire

The vital essence of Bing and Ding Fire comes from primordial Qi; bright and belonging to Yang, let its power be revealed throughout the world. Drive out and destroy the Fire God. Carry it out at once according to the laws.

Incantation for Treading the Dipper

With the first step, the stars in Heaven turn; with the second, evil spirits and wicked ghosts are subdued; with the third, water flows backward; with the fourth, baleful forces are destroyed; with the fifth, the Thunder Duke resounds; with the sixth, the Six Ding divine generals (Daoist guardian deities) descend; with the seventh, the Azure Dragon and Lord Taiyi lend their aid. Form the sword sign with the fingers and flick it to summon thunder and fire, whose power reaches ten thousand li.

The Yang Qi shines brightly in all directions, and the ghosts of the underworld recede. The divine cinnabar—used in Daoist ritual as cinnabar or a vermilion talisman—burns with vivid intensity, its radiance reaching Taiwei, the celestial region of star officials. I now perform this rite, and all evil will be destroyed. The Three Qi transform into flames; the Seven Qi transform into a high terrace. The three stars shine together. As soon as the talisman arrives, malign spirits are swiftly hunted down. Hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Facing the Dipper

The Seven Stars of the Northern Dipper are the essence of all spirits. The Assistant and the Supporter are like two attendants, while the Three Terraces shine forth in their celestial forms. The Six Ding Jade Maidens, the Purple Tenuity Star, and the stars of the four seasons; the Celestial Ladle, the Celestial Origin, and the Eight Mysteries of Kan Water, powers linked to the north, water, and the stars; the four-eyed immortals and the golden youths who carry messages—all are summoned by this incantation.

Recite it one hundred times, and the Seven Perfected Ones will appear and respond. It can prolong life, dispel danger, cut off poison, and destroy demons and evil spirits. All prayers may be fulfilled; one may preserve oneself and attain wealth and honor. The body fills with radiance; Qian, the Origin, brings success and benefit. Hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Inviting the Water

Recite it one hundred times, and the Seven Perfected Ones will appear and respond. It can prolong life, dispel danger, cut off poison, and destroy demons and evil spirits. All prayers may be fulfilled; one may preserve oneself and attain wealth and honor. The body fills with radiance; Qian, the Origin, brings success and benefit. Hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Inviting the Water

Great Unity of the Five Directions, divine essence of the Northern Emperor: grant the Jade Nectar of Taihua, and let it come with my true Qi, the inner vital energy wielded by a practitioner, so that it may manifest for me. The nectar of Kunlun flows forth, carrying the wondrous fragrance of the Emerald Realm. The gods look down and keep watch; all ghosts hide and flee. Hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Treating Illness with Blessed Water

The divine water surges forth, containing the essence and radiance of ten thousand miles. The Five Thunders spread divine Qi and cut off every inauspicious influence. Let the divine water enter the spleen and stomach and pass through the gallbladder and intestines. Let all illnesses quickly recede, and let the medicine’s power reach the urinary bladder. Hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Taking a Talisman

To the Most High Great Dharma Masters of the Three Heavens and the deities of the Supreme One and Purple Tenuity: a certain person now suffers from a certain illness and requests a talisman to take as medicine. May the divine power of this numinous talisman be beyond measure and accord with Heaven’s will. Whether swallowed, worn on the person, or posted up, may it destroy evil influences and slay demons, stop ghosts and apparitions from causing harm, sever their traces forever, and eliminate poison created by sorcery, making both its traces and forms disappear. Once the patient has swallowed it, may the five viscera be at peace.

We respectfully summon the mighty generals of the four quarters: the Thunder of Heaven, Thunder of Earth, Wind Thunder, and Fire Thunder; along with the great generals who Pacify Heaven, Pacify Earth, Pacify Demons, Seize Demons, and Set Ghosts in Motion. They link Heaven and Earth and set the Five Phases in motion; they beat bells and drums, their sound shaking distant places. The heavenly troops, earthly troops, divine troops, water troops, and ghost troops number in the billions of mounted warriors. Above, they spread the net of Heaven; below, they lay the net of Earth. They destroy ghostly demons and seize demons and evil influences. By the command of the Celestial Emperor, this must be carried out at once.

Incantation for Summoning the Messenger

Red Crow, Red Crow, you are the messenger who rides a chariot of wind and fire, the crow spirit amid the thunder and the yaksha beyond the clouds, a deity of myth. You receive the command of the Northern Emperor and obey the summons of Cinnabar Dawn. Come quickly, report, and make your efficacy manifest! Xia-xia, jia-jia; swiftly, swiftly, cha-cha; jia-jia, ya-ya. Kang Minzi Hua, you are the son of Imperial Glory and grandson of Zhuanxu. I summon you now: hasten to the Thunder Office. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for the Swift Messenger

Swift Messenger, you are in charge of conveying talismanic commands. Your numinous might is manifest and your movements swift; your divine powers reach throughout the Great Void. Your reports of efficacy pass freely between Heaven above and Earth below. Please carry the written dispatch and convey the talismanic command to report to the Thunder Office. Please descend to the ritual altar at this hour today.

Incantation of the Eight Thunder Deities

The essence of primordial chaos gathers the original Qi and disperses its refined essence. Twelve immortal youths stand in ordered ranks around the court of the Emperor. The masters and commanders of the Three Yang lead the five divisions of Thunder. Please carry the written dispatch and convey the talismanic command to report to the Thunder Office. Please descend to the ritual altar at this hour today.

The vital energy of Hundun (the primordial state before Heaven and Earth were separated) gathers the breath and radiates numinous brilliance. Twelve immortal youths stand arrayed around the imperial court. The Three Yang Masters command the five divisions of thunder, driving thunder and lightning and setting the flowing-gold fire bells in motion. They shake the pillars of Heaven, split open the mountain ridges, sweep away the nine kinds of evil, and command the myriad spirits. Their orders are never issued rashly; to sentient beings, they manifest the awe of punishment. Their divine power shines brilliantly, striking and subduing, so that none who lie dormant remain undisturbed. From the four seas and eight directions, all come to pay homage at Jade Capital, the city of Heaven. Swiftly, in accordance with the laws and commands!

Incantation for Summoning the Four Spirits

The energy of the East corresponds with the liver, and the energy of the South with the heart; the energy of the West corresponds with the lungs, and the energy of the North with the kidneys. Thunder rumbles faintly in Heaven, and the gates of the four directions appear clearly. Lord of Thunder, Mother of Thunder, Earl of Wind, and Master of Rain: at the sound of the summons, come at once. Do not linger or delay.

Incantation for Summoning the Lord of Thunder

Marshal Tianpeng has received the command and leads the Lords of Thunder. The Great Spirit of Sudden Fire travels with the Eight Generals; the fierce officers of thunder and the Generals of the Eight Trigrams set out as well. The True Ruler of Great Unity commands the mighty troops of the Five Thunders. I now issue the summons: come swiftly to the Palace of Gen, the northeastern palace among the Eight Trigrams. Swiftly, in accordance with the laws and commands!

Incantation for Raising the Wind

The wind of Xun rises swiftly, and thunder follows. Fengyi stirs the wind, his fury unceasing; Guanbo shakes Heaven and Earth, darkening the sky as flying sand and rolling stones sweep through the forests. Generals, True Ruler of Great Unity, and mighty troops of the Five Thunders: I now issue the summons. Come swiftly to the Palace of Gen. Swiftly, in accordance with the laws and commands!

Incantation for Raising the Wind

The wind of Xun rushes forth, and thunder rises. Fengyi stirs the wind, his fury beyond restraint. Guanbo shakes Heaven and Earth, darkening the four directions as flying sand and rolling stones sweep through the forests. Thunder roars, clouds churn, and cries shake the sky; the wind surmounts the mountains and pours into the waters, raising towering, raging waves. Swiftly, in accordance with the laws and commands!

The Great Emperor once commanded, “The Two Marshals are my divine generals.” The Great Black Heaven God, the Great God of Black Mist, and the two marshals Gou and Bi came to the ritual altar. They set their war chariots in motion, shook the mountains, and seized demons and goblins. Their voices thundered like lightning; they struck with startling speed. They slew evil spirits and punished the wicked, and could clear the skies after rain. Their might seemed to drag Heaven and Earth and make thunder roar.

They could ascend to the golden gates of the heavenly court and descend into the netherworld. In the human realm and the watery palaces, they never ceased carrying out their commands. You are the essence and Qi of Heaven; I am the numinous Qi of Earth. I unite my true Qi—the primordial vital essence spoken of in cultivation—with your true essence, joining Yin and Yang, descending into the human realm and entering the netherworld to carry out assignments in the human realm and the watery palaces without pause. You are the essence and Qi of Heaven; I am the numinous Qi of Earth. I unite my true Qi with your true essence. Bing and Ren unite in intercourse—the stems symbolizing the union of Yin and Yang—toppling mountains and overturning Heaven and Earth. At the sound of my summons, descend at once, devour demons, and sweep away the Qi of evil. The Three Officials’ gods come to the aid; the gods of the Five Emperors set forth. The celestial and terrestrial baleful gods, together with the gods who seize ghosts, hold golden hammers and race like bolts of lightning. They patrol the Three Realms, striking fear into ghosts and gods. I now summon the divine generals of the Thunder Gate: swiftly reveal your divine might and true forms, and immediately seize the unrighteous gods throughout the world. Hasten in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation to the Black Baleful God

The spirit of the Black Baleful God; black Qi surges upward. The fire bells and fire commands blaze with ten thousand rays of light. The celestial baleful god, the terrestrial baleful god, the Black Baleful General, the Eight Baleful Generals, and all the baleful gods before and behind: Om, hum, hum □□. By the power of thunderfire, lightning fire, water thunder, and the yang thunderbolt, subdue evil spirits.

Incantation to Pray to the Imperial Net

With fearsome majesty, freeze evil spirits as though with ice. Swiftly send down the celestial dragon and set true Qi in motion. The Nine Ramparts—symbolizing the layered heavens or earth—raise their might; the south wind rises, and the north wind stirs. Hasten in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Another

The High Minister of the numinous realm in the east, a noble divine officeholder, dwells in a place of auspiciousness. He gathers gold and jade and sends down heavenly blossoms like precious jade. He oversees the relief of fire calamities and sweeps away goblins and evil spirits. Compassionate and benevolent, he aids all things, responding in good time without fail. May auspicious snow descend and cover the whole land of China. The south wind rises, and the north wind stirs. Hasten in accordance with the statutes and commands.

The Eastern Numinous High Minister, the revered deity of the eastern spirit realm, dwells amid auspicious radiance. He gathers essences like gold and jade, bringing forth heavenly flowers like precious jade. He governs the clearing of fires and pestilences, sweeps away spirits and monsters, and destroys evil influences. With compassion and benevolence, he saves all beings, answering promptly and without fail. May he send down auspicious snow to blanket the whole land of China. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the law!

Again

The golden essence of the Supreme Ultimate; jade radiance shines forth. He commands thunder and lightning, setting wind and fire surging together. The Radiant Marshal issues the fire command, bringing auspicious blessings to the vast sky. The Great Clarity Supreme Ultimate, the High Perfected, issues edicts and commands without end. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the law!

Incantation for Praying for Clear Skies

Fire Bell, Fire Bell, revered deity of the Fire Department. Break through the five directions, gather in the mist, and sweep away the clouds. Clear Qi descends, while turbid Qi returns underground. Blazing fire surges ten thousand feet high, burning away evil spirits. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the law!

Again

Fire Chariot, Fire Chariot, wherever the thunder command is present. The Three-Five Marshal shines with boundless radiance. He drives raging fire across ten thousand miles, skimming over clouds and rosy mists. They assist the Supreme Emperor, gleaming bright as silver fangs. Huoluo Shuiling moves swiftly and without fail. Bowen receives the command and immediately brings the sunshine of a clear day. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the law!

Shaoyang Incantation

The Supreme Emperor issues his edict, commanding the Shaoyang Thunder Duke to act. Thunder flashes bright and fierce, while dark clouds surge. Thunderclaps resound, and the sunshine of a clear day arrives at once. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the law!

Shaoyang Incantation

The Supreme Emperor issues his edict, commanding the Shaoyang Thunder Duke to act. Thunder flashes bright and fierce, while dark clouds surge. Thunderclaps resound; as soon as the talismanic command arrives, act at once. Fire Chariot, Fire Torch, the Eight Numina and Eight Fierce Ones, summoned generals of the Thunder Department. The Jade Maiden of Flying Lightning and the Divine King Who Hurls Fire, summoned deities. Thunder and lightning roar violently across the sky; winds race, mists scatter, and awe-inspiring spiritual power shakes the world. Shaoyang Thunder Duke, act swiftly, act swiftly.

The sky is lofty and far-reaching; the deep earth lies in shadow. The Supreme Emperor, a revered Daoist deity, issues a command, and thunder at the Kan position sounds at once. The celestial realm of Shenxiao, associated in Daoist thunder rites with the offices of thunder, transmits an order that must be carried out with all speed. The Shaoyang Thunder Lord and General of the Fire Chariot bear fire gourds and tread on wheels of flame, driving wind and thunder until dark clouds fill the sky. The fire hawk spits out a foul, smoky vapor; the thunder chariot roars ahead. The Red Cāi Iron Dog shakes heaven and earth. Dark clouds scatter, then gather again, and Nanling trembles. The crash of thunderclaps resounds across the dim sky, and the thunder formation rises into the heavens. Shaoyang Thunder Lord, act at once in accordance with the talismanic command; everything must comply with the law.

Shenxiao issues its command, transmitting it to the gateway and pivot platform at the Xun position, the southeast direction among the Eight Trigrams (Bagua). Marshal of Sudden Fire, a fire-and-thunder general in thunder rites, summons wind and thunder with a howl. The celestial pass and the axis of the earth must race forth and press the matter forward; dark clouds roil and shift, and a fierce wind suddenly arrives. The barbarian thunders of the five directions beat their drums and strike; the cloud thunders of the eight directions shake the nine heavens and the four quarters. The great gods of the four seas must not hesitate or linger. The Flying-Heaven Thunder Lord burns ghosts to ash; the Across-the-Sky Thunder Lord blows temples to ash. A violent wind sweeps in like flying crows, opening and closing before and behind; thunder formations surge fiercely to either side, unleashing thunderclaps. Today you carry out this command; you must not disobey or delay. Those who defy it will not be spared, even if cut limb from limb and reduced to dust. General Shaoyang, act at once in accordance with the talismanic command. I await you before the ritual altar and will immediately observe the response. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Shaoyang to Raise Thunder

The seven stars of the Northern Dipper pour forth the power of thunder. Wherever the Celestial Ladle, a star spirit or position within the Northern Dipper system, points, the Five Thunders erupt at once. Wherever the Supreme Emperor grants protection, thunderclaps immediately resound. Summon wind and thunder with a howl; let sand fly and stones roll. Once the thunder chariot is set in motion, it answers the call and arrives. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Shaoyang to Raise Thunder

The Seven Stars of the Northern Dipper pour down the power of thunder. Wherever the Tiangang stars—the stars used in Daoist arts to determine direction—point, the Five Thunders rise at once. When the Lord on High comes to the rescue, lightning strikes immediately. I cry out and summon wind and thunder, sending sand and stones flying. At the first call, the thunder chariot rises; at the second, lightning flashes; at the third, thunder roars; at the fourth, all trembles; at the fifth, sand and stones fly; at the sixth, fierce winds and great thunderbolts arise. Fourth Brother of the Weaver Girl, Gou Lou Ji Li, Deng Seng De Se (syllables in the spell or names of spirits; their precise meanings are unclear). Heavenly thunder, earthly thunder, divine thunder, water thunder, and Sheling thunder (thunder governed by local earth deities) sound together; water, fire, metal, wood, and earth thunder (thunder arts classified according to the Five Phases: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water) strike together. Metal and wood clash; water and fire collide. I summon the Five Thunders: let thunderbolts descend swiftly. Let all be carried out in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Spell for Withdrawing the Tiangang

Heaven and earth tremble; sun and moon shine bright. Rivers and seas run dry; mountains collapse. Tiangang Qi (the vital energy of the Tiangang stars) rises to shield my body. Thunder and lightning break forth; wind and fire arise. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Spell for the Five Purifications

By the power of Danzhu Zhenglun, let all be gathered into stillness; Taiguang, Youjing, and Shuangling (the names of the three souls in the human body) depart from impurity. Pengju, Pengjiao, and Pengzhi (the names of the three corpses within the human body) must not leave my body. May the power of the Supreme Three Heavens, of emptiness and naturalness, gather and hold them; may the power of Shangqing Lingbao, of emptiness, Danzhu Zhenglun, and stillness gather and hold them. Taiguang, Youjing, and Shuangling depart from impurity; Pengju, Pengjiao, and Pengzhi must not leave my body. May the power of the Supreme Three Heavens, of emptiness and naturalness, gather and hold them; may the power of Shangqing Lingbao, of emptiness, gather and hold them.

Spell for Wind and Fire to Rush Ahead

Fire spirits, flying crows; phoenix beaks, dragon teeth. Talismans and registers fly ahead to clear the way and cut down evil spirits. Should any demon dare to attack my thunder chariot, wherever divine might reaches, fierce winds will rise and sand and stones will fly, mountains will shake and trees will be uprooted, and all will soar into the sky. Thunderbolts are jade tigers; lightning flashes are purple serpents. The commanders and officers of the Three Offices (divine agencies in Daoism) stand in formation today to receive their orders. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

End of Volume Seven of the Supreme One’s Divine Spells of the Three Caverns

Volume Eight of the Supreme One’s Divine Spells of the Three Caverns

Various spells for warding off calamity, driving away evil, and punishing malevolent spirits

Spell for Visualizing and Refining the Fire Bell

The Jade Emperor of Azure Radiance (the emperor of the eastern realm of azure radiance), the True King of the Divine Empyrean (the true king of the celestial realm of the Divine Empyrean), the Sun Emperor of Fusang (the emperor of the sun palace at Fusang), and the Moon Sovereign of the Western Pole (the sovereign of the western moon palace)—these four true gods, together with the three kinds of primordial Qi (the fundamental vital breaths that constitute Heaven, Earth, and all things), coalesce into a clear, bright light. Let this light fill and guard the upper, middle, and lower Dantians (the body’s three sites of cultivation), so that the inside and outside take on hues of azure and yellow. At dusk, swallow the sunlight and absorb the moon’s radiance; golden light will then rise. The Qi of the sun and moon circulates within the body, flowing through the Cinnabar Palace and Jade-green Chamber (inner chambers of cultivation). As you exhale, the jade body appears; as you inhale, draw it into the Hall of Jade (an inner chamber of the spirits). Demons and monsters will vanish of their own accord, and the Three Corpses (spirits said in Daoism to dwell in the body and hinder cultivation) will be destroyed. After completing the practice sequence of “three nines yielding seven,” you will be able to meet and pay homage to the True King.

The True King of the Divine Empyrean cultivates the external light of azure and yellow. At dusk, swallow the sunlight and absorb the moon’s radiance, causing golden light to rise. The Qi of the sun and moon circulates within the body, flowing through the Cinnabar Palace and Jade-green Chamber. As you exhale, the jade body appears; as you inhale, draw it into the Hall of Jade. Demons and monsters will vanish of their own accord, and the Three Corpses will be destroyed. After completing the practice sequence of “three nines yielding seven,” you will be able to meet and pay homage to the True King.

The True King of the Divine Empyrean cultivates golden light. The Jade Emperor of the Void Sovereign (a revered Daoist deity) releases nine rays of light, which coalesce into a fire bell containing primordial Jing (the fundamental essence of life and the cosmos). This is the root of primordial Qi and the source of the Golden Fire Celestial Troops (heavenly generals who command the powers of metal and fire). At a movement of the mind, the spirits take on visible form. Draw them into the Cinnabar Origin (the body’s Dantian), and you will unite with the Dao and realize the true. Inwardly, you are complete and encompass the myriad forms; outwardly, you subdue all spirits. Evil forces and ghosts are filled with fear and submit, fleeing in panic. Golden light and fiery clouds constantly envelop me. By command of the Law, swiftly!

The Jade Pure One of the Divine Empyrean sends down the decree of the fire bell, granting me the Jade Marshal (a divine general of metal and fire) and the Golden Fire Celestial Troops. Metal Qi rises and fire blazes; together they refine the original Shen (the fundamental spirit of a person). Inwardly, they protect the body; outwardly, they subdue demons, monsters, ghosts, and spirits. Ghosts and spirits are filled with fear and submit; when I speak, my words carry the power to awe them. By command of the Law, swiftly!

Fire Bell Incantation

Fire Bell of the Southern Pole, Golden Fire Celestial Troops: swiftly leave the Xun Palace (the Bagua direction of the southeast) and descend upon the Li Gate (the Bagua direction of the south). Descend swiftly in your true spiritual form; let the mind serve as commander and Qi as divine power. Now I unite mind, spirit, and Qi, coalescing and transforming them into form. Draw them in, and they become an elixir; breathe them out, and they transform into spirits. Heaven and Earth unite; the sun and moon conceal their radiance. Descend swiftly and unite with me as one in truth. By command of the Law, swiftly!

Fire Bell Incantation

Jade Maidens of the Flying Flame-Light, Fierce Fire Generals of Thunder, Great Generals Who Bring Down Fire in Taiwei (a region of the celestial realm), Fire Hurlers, and Vanguard Gods of Flying Fire: Heaven and Earth unite; the sun and moon conceal their radiance. Descend swiftly and unite with me as one in truth. By command of the Law, swiftly!

Fire Bell Incantation

The flame-gliding Radiant Jade Maiden, the Thunderbolt Fierce-Fire General, and the Great General Who Brings Down Fire from the Supreme Subtlety, together with other divine generals, drive and hurl flames, sending flying fire surging forward. There are ten thousand fire wheels and a thousand herds of fire beasts; the blazing fire of fire-crows and fire-horses fills heaven and earth. The Flame Emperor Lord, the Thunder-Fire Perfected, the Great General of the Volcano, the Primordial Lord of Wind and Fire, the Great Yin True Fire, the Sun-Essence Flame Lord, the Southern Pole Fire Bell, and the Golden-Fire Celestial Attendants all wield fire swords and command fire troops. Great Sage of the Fire Crystal and Great God of the Fire Bell, swiftly burn the evil ghosts, leaving no trace of them forever. Luo-fei-tan, bright and blazing sunlight, swiftly send down true fire to seize and subdue evil spirits.

Again

The Fire Official, Fire Emperor, and Fire Bell God come flying in fire carts and upon fire wheels. Song Wuji, Great General of the Fire Bell, is the Southern Celestial Gate God of Fire’s Virtue. Great General of the Heavenly Thunder, Great God Liu of the Fire Bell, swiftly burn the evil ghosts, leaving no trace of them forever. Luo-fei-tan, bright and blazing sunlight, swiftly send down true fire to seize and subdue evil spirits.

Again

The Fire Official, Fire Emperor, and Fire Bell God come flying in fire carts and upon fire wheels. Song Wuji, Great General of the Fire Bell, is the Southern Celestial Gate God of Fire’s Virtue. Great General of Heavenly Thunder, Liu Zhong, comes to seize and subdue them; flames reach the sky, darkening even the sun and moon. Great General of Earthly Thunder, Li Yongzhi, seizes the myriad ghosts and casts them into a pit to be burned. Great General of Fire-Thunder, Zhou Wenqing, establishes fire citadels across the Four Great Continents. Great General of Wind-Thunder, Zhu Yongan, flies in with true fire to seize and subdue evil spirits. The golden-eyed serpent stretches a million zhang, spewing fierce flames across ten thousand li to burn ghosts and spirits. The vermilion phoenix carries flames in its beak and comes from the Nine Heavens, pursuing evil spirits until they have nowhere to hide. Evil spirits and malign influences, leave at once. If you do not leave, drive them away and burn them to ashes in the fire. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Heavenly Dipper Incantation

The Celestial Emperor issues a written command; I bear the power of the Heavenly Dipper. Why have the wicked ghosts of the five directions not yet perished? A flying immortal draws in breath and blows once, and the myriad ghosts go into hiding. Om, hum, hum, yun, □, xi, li, soha.

Sun Lord Incantation

The sun’s soul, Vermilion Radiance, shines with brilliance, gathering in and revealing a blue-green glow. Whirling rosy clouds respond to the Red Child; wondrous, blazing radiance manifests its form. Rushing wind; Yuyi, the sun’s divine name; red rays shine brilliantly. Om yu □□ yue, Perfected One Yuanhui. Om wa dan la yun, □ li □ he.

Moon Lord Incantation

Moon □ xi li soha.

Sun Lord Incantation

The Sun’s soul, Zhu Jing, shines with radiant light, concealing darkness and revealing a blue-green hue. A red youth circles alongside the rosy clouds, while flames in the depths shine forth. The wind rushes onward, and Yu Yi, the sun’s divine name, appears in dazzling red light. The incantation summons the Perfected One, Yuan Hui, and secretly invokes his numinous power.

Incantation of the Moon Lord

The moon’s vital essence is wreathed in clouds and Qi, fragrant and beautiful, veiling the tranquil sky. The numinous orchid unfurls, while Yu Hua, a divine name associated with the moon, gathers a lovely radiance. Moonlight is clear and bright as pure gold; the moon deity’s countenance is serene, revealing a pure and unadorned glow. The incantation uses secret sounds to invoke the moon deity’s numinous presence.

Thirty-Six-Character Celestial Dipper Incantation

A sequence of secret incantation syllables summons the power of the Celestial Dipper. It ends with “Command, expel evil, and contain,” ordering evil forces to be driven away and their Qi subdued.

Xuantan Commanding Talisman Incantation

Zhao Gongming, Great General of Xuantan, God of Wealth and protective deity in popular belief: having sworn your oath, you must not break it. Hear my summons and descend at once. The Great General of Xuantan is the vital essence of the stars of the Northern Pole, able to command the power of dragons and tigers and suppress wicked beings. He burns down evil shrines and leads troops and generals; he answers prayers for rain or clear skies and sets thunder and lightning in motion. He arrives as soon as he is summoned, fulfills every request, and makes retribution clear. The Celestial Master has already issued the command; it must be obeyed at once. Act swiftly, in accordance with the ordinances.

Incantation for Treating Cold Illness

Gods of the Fire Bell and Fire Mountain, burn the illness demons until they turn to dust. Wind illness, scatter with the wind; Qi illness, be removed at its source. Plague, every kind of poison, and all disorders of cold and heat must quickly leave the body. Let pain now disperse, and let men and women alike be safe. Act swiftly, in accordance with the ordinances.

Incantation to Reduce Fever

Water Emperors of the Nine Rivers and Lords of the Sources of the Four Rivers, send heavy snow down from the sky and spread severe frost across the earth. Let the north wind cut like an arrow, restoring men and women to safety. Act swiftly, in accordance with the ordinances.

Incantation to Reduce Fever

Water Emperors of the Nine Rivers and Lords of the Sources of the Four Rivers, let heavy snow fill the sky and severe frost cover the earth. Let the north wind cut like an arrow, and hail, sleet, and snow pour down. Dispel the evil heat and protect the sick so they may be safe. Let snow mountains rise ten thousand ren high, their icy power destroying evil spirits. Act swiftly, in accordance with the ordinances.

Incantation for Summoning Thunder

Before primordial Chaos divided, there was no form or image. Original Qi (vital energy) brought forth the myriad things. From it, Heaven and Earth were created, and Thunder began to move. [The text is damaged in several places below, including syllables that imitate shouted incantations.] Recite this once, and Thunder will descend. Hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Sending Forth Generals from the Cavern Mystery

I take purity and uprightness as my foundation, and integrity as my power. I command the ghosts and spirits to stand at attention with fists clenched, ready for my use; I make the winds and clouds gather and disperse according to their appointed times. With every breath, I discern the hinge of Heaven and Earth’s workings; with every action, I follow the restraints of the Primordial Sovereign, so that the majesty of the Three Heavens (the celestial realms in Daoism) may be made manifest.

I command the ghosts and spirits to stand at attention with fists clenched, ready for my use; I make the winds and clouds gather and disperse according to their appointed times. With every breath, I discern the hinge of Heaven and Earth’s workings; with every action, I follow the restraints of the Primordial Sovereign. Thus, above the Three Heavens and below the Nine Earths, all must follow the statutes and commands and obey my orders.

The Divine Generals, including Liu Tianjun, are formed from the essential Qi of Heaven, and you among them are the most efficacious. I command you to ascend to Heaven and hasten to the Imperial Court; I command you to enter the earth and reach the deep Springs of the Netherworld; I command you to enter the waters and swiftly arrive at the Dragon Palace. I command you to unleash thunder and lightning, setting Thunder in motion with true Qi (the original, primordial energy in Daoism); I command you to seize demons and monsters, bind them swiftly, and bring them here to reveal their true forms.

I uphold Heaven’s mandate and act according to its commands. Those who are guilty should be put to death; those who are innocent must not be arbitrarily pursued. With the power of Qian Yuan, Heng, Li, and Zhen, and of the sun and moon, join me in carrying out this command. Summon the Iron-Faced General and swiftly reveal your true form. Do not become mired in trifles, or you will betray the true covenant yourself. I now swear an oath at the mouth of the Dipper; return swiftly when summoned.

Incantation for Dispelling Obstacles and Resolving Disputes

Heavenly spirit, heavenly spirit! Yuluo (the celestial realm in Daoism) is vast and radiant. I ask the Great God of the Pivot Office to dispel disorder and avert calamity, sweep away evil, and protect the Original True Qi (the primordial energy in its original state). Hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Another

All things receive the One Qi and come into being; the transformations of the spirits have no fixed form. I ask you to descend from the abode of Thunder and sweep away every inauspicious thing. Hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation of the Fire Bell’s Majestic Radiance

The Flowing Gold Fire Bell is transformed from the essence and Qi of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning. It assists in the Northern Pole Palace of Heaven and serves in the Jade Purity realm. Its numinous power is supremely exalted: it wears the Seven Stars upon its head and breathes flames from its mouth, illuminating ten thousand li. Qingling descends at command to save all beings. Its virtue accords with Heaven and Earth. It assists in the Northern Pole and serves in the Jade Purity realm; its numinous power is supreme. Wearing the Seven Stars upon its head, it breathes flames from its mouth and illuminates ten thousand li. Qingling descends at command to save all beings. Its virtue accords with Heaven and Earth; its might shakes the thunder, and its Qi courses through the cosmos, causing Yin Qi to lie hidden and Yang Qi to arise. The Six Jia spirits clear the way before it, while heavenly troops guard it from behind. It rides the clouds and flashes like lightning, wielding the Fire Bell to seize Yin and evil forces and destroy malevolent spirits. Thunder crashes, and Heaven and Earth are cleansed. As soon as an order comes from the Jade Purity realm, it must be carried out with all speed. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

The Thunder God of All Heaven is a revered deity who governs the Three Realms. His might can shake the Supreme Emperor and slay the violent and wicked. In Heaven, among humankind, and in the shadowy underworld, demons and monsters must be subdued, and earthly spirits brought under control. The Three Realms carry out his commands—who would dare disobey? The fierce officers of the Five Thunders move as swiftly as lightning; demon kings bow their heads, and ghosts and monsters are punished. The Thunder God guards every territory and saves the people. The perfected beings in Heaven receive the command, while the deities on Earth report their response. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

The Great Immortal of Sudden Fire, a divine general who governs thunder and fire, patrols from Xun, the southeast, to Qian, the northwest, toppling mountains and overturning Heaven and Earth. All the gods answer as one, and the sages summoned to appear obey the command. Should demons, monsters, or ghosts show disrespect and refuse to obey, they are to be slain with the yellow battle-axe and cut down with the Heaven-cleaving mattock. Holding the Emperor Lord’s edict, he forever commands authority from Xun to Qian. Cast out the command tablet. If it does not reach its destination on the first attempt, pass it on through the chain of command. If it still fails to arrive on the second attempt, there is to be no reprieve, even if an amnesty is granted. If it fails on the third attempt, erase its trace forever. Once the order is issued, it must move as swiftly as a spark; none of the Three Realms may delay. All officers and generals, come at once to the ritual altar and make the retribution manifest for me.

Spell for Opening the Passages

At the beginning of the Taiji (Supreme Ultimate), cloud-script—the ancient, mysterious cloud-shaped writing used in Daoist talismans and registers—filled the Great Void. The Three Qi condensed into talismans, becoming the jade writings transmitted by the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning. The gates of Heaven governed the passes. The various emperors and divine lords received talismans and commands, then reported those orders to the heavenly court. The fierce winds and the Nine Ugly Demons, malevolent spirits in Daoist belief, were to vanish at once when commanded. Anyone bold enough to offend or disobey would cause the winds and fires to rage without cease. All were to follow the commands of the Heavenly Emperor and act swiftly.

Incantation for Dispelling Calamity

The Seven True Lords of the Northern Dipper command the myriad spirits, protecting people wherever they may be—in the east, west, south, or north—so that they remain safe and travel in peace. The sun’s radiant image at midday shines upon all beings and sweeps away demonic influences, preventing them from disturbing the heavenly realm. The vitality of Heaven and Earth flourishes, and all things are able to grow. This incantation calls upon the gods to save the human world, support the weak, help people pass through calamities, and return evil spirits to the proper way. It asks them to govern the mountains, harmonize Heaven and Earth, enrich the four seas, and bring all things into accord. It also calls upon the gods to strengthen the root Qi, nourish the spirit, and command the Dragon and Tiger—divine generals or protective powers in Daoism—to pursue and capture ghosts and spirits. Return to the origin, preserve life, and govern all beings. Proclaim the precious registers, records of divine commands, and let the myriad saints guard and protect. The gods answer people’s wishes and arrive at their call, so that their actions accord with the natural Way. Hasten in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Pacing the Dipper

Kuei and Kang, most sacred and divine, I now step upward and ascend, taking my place at Yangming. I turn Heaven and Earth and walk according to the steps of the Seven Stars, pacing the celestial pattern to increase my years and lifespan. The gods assist me as I pay homage to the Heavenly Emperor, while many divine officials and generals guard my body. Let no calamity come near me; may I live long, and may all things go favorably.

“Pacing the Dipper” refers to walking according to the positions of the stars during Daoist liturgy, symbolically ascending to Heaven and summoning the gods.

General Incantation for Summoning the Divine Officers

Divine Officer, your nature is fierce, and your might surpasses that of Nezha. You have three heads and nine eyes, and your transformations are wondrous: you can divide yourself and change form, turning one body into three. Black mist pours from your nostrils, shrouding Heaven and Earth. When you hear my summons, leave the gates of Heaven at once. Drive out evil, seize demons and ghosts, and search everywhere, near and far. Capture the mountain demons and spirits and bring them here. Descend swiftly and possess the body; announce your name. If you dare disobey this command, you will be escorted to the Northern Court for punishment.

The Ancestor of Fire Virtue in the South is the divine figure Bing-Ding, the Flame Emperor, who governs Fire Virtue. He has three heads, nine eyes, and nine arms, and appears with a golden body. Golden light bursts from his eyes, while a thunderous voice rises with fire and lightning. He cuts away evil and guides people back to the right path; when summoned, he appears in his true form. He subdues evil demons and spirits, and, under command, swiftly captures and brings them under control at the Gate of Qian (here, the Daoist altar or the site of a Daoist ritual). Swiftly, in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation for Raising a Fire Canopy to Capture Evil

The sun’s light is the source of fire. Bind iron into branches, then weave them into a net. Blazing red flames rise in every direction, reaching up to the blue sky and down to the gates of the underworld. To the east they reach the source of Wood; to the west, the ancestor of Metal; to the south, Zhu Ling, the Daoist fire court of the South; and to the north, Fengdu, the legendary realm of the dead. Whatever its size, every region of the twelve lands is enclosed by the canopy of fire: ghosts above cannot descend, ghosts outside cannot enter, and ghosts within cannot escape. Generals with disheveled hair, yellow-haired generals, prison generals, yaksha generals, and fire-wheel generals, together with the ghost-capturing generals of the Five Directions, the swift-capturing generals on the left and right, and the beheading, blood-dripping generals, must at once capture and subdue the evil spirits. Swiftly, in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation of the Thunder Lord of All Heaven

The Thunder Lord of All Heaven disperses thunderclaps, drinks the rainbow, and swallows the rainbow. Wherever the celestial talisman’s command arrives, evil spirits may not remain. To save people suffering through famine and drought, the mighty divine officers of the Thunder Bureau display their power. Should evil spirits disturb the human world, Heaven’s command will never permit it. Swiftly, in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation for Seizing and Expelling Possessing Spirits

Tianpeng and Tiangang, help me restore order and enforce the law. The three Qi of Bing-Ding, associated with fire, burst from my mouth as flames, helping me seize evil spirits and leaving them nowhere to hide. Once captured, they are struck down with the sword, their brains burned away. Reclaim the three souls and return them to the child’s body from which the spirit was expelled. Swiftly, in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation of the Fire Prison

Divine generals of the Flame Essence, let the Vermilion Bird, symbol of the fire deity of the South, soar aloft. With a stroke of the divine brush, it joins with the fire Qi of Bing-Ding. The blazing goddess holds the Emperor’s bell, and the Threefold True Fire, the mighty divine fire of Daoism and Buddhism, swiftly descends upon Zhu Ling. The divine generals of the Three Terraces lend their aid, and the messenger brings down the divine spirit. Song Wuji, general of the fire wheel, hurry and wield the fire wheel to burn the ghosts and destroy their forms. Swiftly, in accordance with the law and command.

I respectfully invoke the Marshal of the Cinnabar Heaven Fire Rhinoceros Court, the Red Glow Bing-Ding Deities (divine generals of Metal and Fire), the King of the Golden-Headed Iron-Flame Great Fire Wheel Deities, the King of the Blazing Woman Deities, the Red-Brained Red Glow Messengers, the Greatly Awesome Yang-Essence Messengers, the Vermilion Bird, and the other divine generals and messengers. Let true fire descend swiftly and burn away evil spirits and monsters. The golden fire wheel spins rapidly, its flames linking Heaven and Earth. Three divine beings soar and shine within the fire. The flames do not harm the righteous gods; they burn only ghosts and bandits. They reduce ghosts to ashes and refine them into liquid. When all evil gods hear my command, the raging fire grinds them to dust. This command must be carried out at once.

Incantation for the Divine Officials to Subdue Evil

The Great General of Zhengyi (a deity who commands troops and generals in the Golden Palace) holds a golden brick and a fire ladle, commanding attendants and troops. Bearing swords, halberds, spears, and knives, he patrols the mountains above and reaches the clouds below. The White Serpent reveals its form and devours ghosts, monsters, and evil spirits; it pierces through mountain demons and all ghosts, cutting off their roots. I tread the stars to perform the rite, and the ghosts and monsters wail. Seize the wicked ghosts and deliver them all to the Merit Officer (a divine clerk who conveys and handles affairs in the spirit realm). This command must be carried out at once.

Incantation for the Fire Bell to Subdue Evil

I respectfully invoke the Star Lord Yinghuo (the deity of Mars), the Fire Bell General, the Fire Bell Deity, the Fire Bell Boy, the Fire Bell Troops, and the Great Fire Bell General Song Wuji. Set the fire thunder in motion, shake the Fire Bell, and summon the Bing-Ding fire until fiery clouds rise. These clouds surround the evil gods above, below, and in all eight directions: those within cannot escape, and those outside cannot enter. Whoever dares to defy the command will be burned to ashes by the raging flames. This command must be carried out at once.

Incantation to Summon the Flowing-Gold Fire Bell

The Three Upper Pure Realms (the Upper Pure realm in Daoist teaching) gather and govern the Qi of the Upper Origin. The radiance of the eight directions joins with the energy of the netherworld, while the assembled gods attend beside the Celestial Emperor’s carriage. Among them is a great general who assists the Great Mystery and commands eighty-four thousand heavenly soldiers. His supernatural powers and transformations are irresistible, and his might shakes the Dark Heavens. Hearing the summons now, he swiftly comes before the altar. With all urgency, in accordance with the law!

Binding Incantation

The Upper Pure realm sends down its command, and I array the troops and generals. The Star Dipper gods obey the order and assist Heaven in carrying out its punishments. They track down and interrogate ghost bandits, compelling them at once to give their names. Om, hong, zha, li: assemble the divine troops and swiftly seize them.

Soul-Awakening Incantation

Open the Heavenly Court, enabling people to attain long life. Restore the Three Hun and Seven Po (the souls that Daoism holds to constitute human spirit and life) to their divine awareness, and return them to an infant’s original purity. Destroy ghosts and apparitions, drive away evil demons, and summon the many numinous spirits to come. Rise to the realm of the Most High and unite with the light of the sun. Repeat this incantation three times. The Three Hun dwell on the left, and the Seven Po guard on the right. They quietly heed the commands of the gods and watch for inauspicious events. Let evil demons depart swiftly, and let body, mind, nature, and life be peaceful and sound. With all urgency, in accordance with the law!

Purification Incantation

The upright Qi of the Dark Heavens, the essence of the Yellow Emperor and Laozi (revered in Daoism). Spit forth ten thousand fathoms of pure water to wash away the foul energy of demons and evil spirits. Let the Three Hun guard the body and the Seven Po be calm and undisturbed, so that body and spirit attain a wondrous state and unite with the Dao in truth.

Incantation for Summoning the Horse Marshal

The essence of the south is called Bing and Ding. The divine spirit is one, yet has three bodies, and bears nine eyes. Clad in golden armor, he treads upon a wheel of fire. Hearing my summons, come and unite with me as one. Drive away evil, destroy baleful spirits, and save and protect all beings. With all urgency, in accordance with the law!

Golden City Incantation

Mighty spirit of the golden bricks, hear the summons and descend to reveal your power. Spit forth the Samādhi True Fire (the divine fire spoken of in Daoism); let the golden bricks shine brilliantly as you tread upon a wheel of fire. Hearing my summons, come and unite with me as one. Drive away evil, destroy baleful spirits, and save and protect all beings. With all urgency, in accordance with the law!

Golden City Incantation

Mighty spirit of the golden bricks, hear the summons and descend to reveal your power. Spit forth the Samādhi True Fire, and let the golden bricks shine brilliantly. Let one golden brick become a thousand, surrounding us on every side to form an impregnable golden city. Let blazing flames draw near and roast the ghosts and gods. The Emperor of Primordial Beginning issues his decree, and demons, evil spirits, and monsters turn to dust. Om, □ ye, fu, li, ye.

Incantation for Absorbing the Qi of the Clouds

I receive the true Qi (vital energy and divine power) of the Thunder Lord and the mighty voice of the Lightning Goddess. I use them to drive away the many illnesses afflicting the body, so that the people, too, may use them to restore their health. I command the generals of the Five Phases and the soldiers of the Six Jia (divine generals and troops in Daoist belief) to obey my orders, sever every evil influence, and destroy the many demons. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Summoning Marshal Wen

The breath of Heaven is vast; the breath of Earth is pure. Marshal Wen takes form on the Eastern Peak (Mount Tai and the domain under its deity), commanding the ghost troops. Grant me mighty power and manifest the power of the divine. Follow my command and swiftly descend into the talisman. By the command of the Supreme Emperor, come to the aid of the living; swiftly obey the order.

Incantation for Summoning Marshal Wen

The breath of Heaven is vast; the breath of Earth is pure. Marshal Wen takes form on the Eastern Peak, commanding the ghost troops. Grant me mighty power and manifest the power of the divine. Follow my command and swiftly descend into the talisman. By the command of the Supreme Emperor, come to the aid of the living; summon the Grand Protector (a guardian deity general) at once. Commander So-and-so, pursue and capture the evil forces of illness.

Incantation for Concealment

Heaven covers me; Earth conceals me. The seven stars of the Northern Dipper are my robe. The sun protects me; whoever does not protect me shall perish. My body is hidden in a deep and secret place, within the realm of the Nine Zhen (the realm of true deities in Daoist belief), in the land of flowing fire. Weapons cannot invade me; blades cannot harm me. Ghosts and spirits cannot see me; calamity cannot befall me. Wherever I go, Heaven and Earth present an auspicious sign of great prosperity.

Incantation for Wuyang to Burn Away Evil

Wuyang (the name of a divine general or deity in this incantation), you draw in the essence of iron and the blood of the southern Red Phoenix. Draw them together into the talisman, so that ghosts and spirits are terrified and their brains split. The Perfected One descends from the south; dragon and tiger cross paths and roar. The sun’s blazing light burns the Yin ghosts—where can ghosts and spirits flee? The sun rises with true radiance; earth-fire blazes in the Li direction (the south in the Bagua). Thunder-fire issues from the Gen direction (the northeast in the Bagua), burning away all inauspicious things. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Wuyang Talisman Incantation

The Fire Bell and Fire Command lead the troops of the south. One hundred thousand elite soldiers each transform into the true form of a deity. Bing and Ding (the Heavenly Stems associated with Fire in the Five Phases) stand on the left, while the White Tiger (the divine beast of the west) receives them on the right. The Bing and Ding gods, generals, strongmen, youths, officials, and soldiers—one hundred thousand elite troops—each transform into their true forms; Bing and Ding stand on the left, and the White Tiger receives them on the right. Bing and Ding divine generals, strongmen, youths, officials, soldiers, and commanders, descend with your true Qi into my talisman and protect all living beings. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Wuyang Incantation for the Healing Talisman

The sun rises in the east, blazing with light. Fusang, the legendary divine tree from which the sun rises, surges with radiance, illuminating ten thousand miles. The true Qi of the south drives away ill omens; thunder roars, and sharp blades gleam like frost. The Yin ghosts of the Li position, the true Yang of the Kan position, the stars in their proper places, and the Northern Dipper’s Tiangang stars are all summoned into the spleen and stomach, to scour the liver and intestines. Drive out the myriad ghosts and open the flow of Qi in the bladder. May every prayer be fulfilled, every wish prosper, every plea answered, and every illness cured. Seize the demons and heterodox forces and escort them to Kuigang, the name of a constellation and also a spirit that exorcises evil. With all haste, obey this command.

Spell for Stopping Headaches

Five Thunders, Five Viscera. May every prayer be fulfilled, every wish prosper, every plea answered, and every illness cured. Seize the demons and heterodox forces and escort them to Kuigang. With all haste, obey this command.

Spell for Stopping Headaches

Let the Five Thunders strike as one: the Divine Thunder of the Black Banner, associated with the deity who commands the black standard. The little ghost causing the headache—seize it at once and make it obey. The Northern Emperor’s majestic wheel spreads its numinous power everywhere to seize evil spirits. Zeng-ti-du-lu seizes them; Zha the spirit falls to the ground, and the ground falls as Zha the spirit cries out. The Most High prolongs life, bringing the Tai Guang and Shuang Ling, names of two of the three human souls, to calm and brightness. Drive out Yin ghosts and cut off evil essences. Let numinous clarity remain pure and undimmed, enduring without end in long life and peace. Expel Yin energy and preserve the three souls through Yang energy. Let no evil Qi enter; let true Qi remain for a long time. In accordance with my command, present this to the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing). With all haste, obey this command.

Spell for Healing with a Fan

The Most High’s fan is pure and efficacious; it fans away all manner of evil Qi. I need only fan once, and the sick person will be at peace. With all haste, obey this command.

Spell of the Black Sun and City of Fire

Red Emperor, King of Fire, set bright flames all around. Let swords and blades rain down, slaying the ghostly demons and the King of Fire. When the talismanic command arrives, carry it out at once: seize swiftly, with boundless power. I respectfully summon the Star Lord Yinghuo, the southern deity of Fire Virtue; the Fire Bell General, the Fire Bell Divine General, the Fire Bell Lad, the Fire Bell Officers and Soldiers, and the Fire Wheel and Fire Chariot Generals. Send forth the light of thunder, sound the Fire Bells, command Bing and Ding, the Heavenly Stems that represent fire, and ride upon fiery clouds. Swiftly seize everything in the eight directions, above and below, with boundless power. I respectfully summon the Star Lord Yinghuo, the southern deity of Fire Virtue; the Fire Bell General, the Fire Bell Divine General, the Fire Bell Lad, the Fire Bell Officers and Soldiers, and the Fire Wheel and Fire Chariot Generals. Send forth the light of thunder, sound the Fire Bells, command Bing and Ding, and ride upon fiery clouds. Enclose all eight directions, above and below. As soon as an evil ghost appears, turn it to dust. Quickly.