《太上三洞神咒》Vol. 4

Swift as statute and ordinance: the command must be carried out at once.

Sword-Enchantment Spell

I am the Lord Taiyi of the Cavern, a revered Daoist deity. I wear the Seven Stars upon my head and tread among the Four Spirits, divine guardians symbolizing the four directions. I hold a dragon blade and stand in awe-inspiring power, patrolling from the Xun position to the Li position, then onward to the Kun position. I pass through the Dui Gate and proceed to the Qian-Hai direction; from afar I gaze upon Heaven’s Gate and pay homage to the Emperor Lord. Then I pass through Kan-Zi and the summit of Mount Heng, descend straight to the Gen Palace, and seal the Gate of Ghosts. Whoever fails to obey my Daoist methods shall be driven beneath my sword and reduced to dust. Swiftly, in accordance with statute and ordinance.

Demon-Expelling Spell

Lord of the Vermilion Heaven in the south, you hold the great bell of flowing gold and fire. Its flames sweep across the sky and the Five Sacred Peaks, churn the seas, and shake Heaven and Earth. You travel throughout the Six Directions, commanding the celestial troops. At the sound of my summons, come at once and do not delay. Subdue and destroy the fierce gods and evil ghosts; swiftly seize them and send them to the City of Fire, where fire subdues evil forces. Swiftly, in accordance with statute and ordinance.

Great Thunder-Fire Spell of the Celestial Capital

Om, Hum, Hum! Swiftly set in motion the command of the Nine Heavens’ Celestial Fire, transformed from the essence of the Flame Emperor. Holy Ones of Flowing Gold and the divine troops of the Fire Crows, cast your blazing fire and act at once; do not delay. Subdue and destroy the fierce gods and evil ghosts; swiftly seize them and send them to the City of Fire. Swiftly, in accordance with statute and ordinance.

“Om Hum Hum Jiu!” I issue the command, summoning the Nine Heavens’ Great Fire and calling forth the essence of the Flame Emperor, the Holy One of Flowing Gold, and the divine troops of the Fire Crows. Flames are hurled ten thousand li, sweeping away the breath of demons and burning bandit ghosts. Fierce winds rise from the Palace of Li, the southern seat of Fire; fire ropes reaching to heaven come with black flames and black winds. Flying fires blaze bright and hot, and the Great Gods answer the summons at once.

I perform the Fire Rite. The assembled gods each take up an imperial bell and shake the Three Realms, leaving demons nowhere to hide. I respectfully summon the Star Lord Yinghuo, the Fire Virtue of the South, and a million hosts of Fire who command the primordial true gods: the Fire Star Boy, the Messenger of Rank Smoke, the Iron-Faced God King, and the Three-Five Generals. I call upon them to drive fire wheels, fire chariots, fire dragons, fire horses, fire bows, and fire arrows, and to serve the True King of Jade Clarity and the Great Emperor of Vermilion Mound, Lord of Long Life, wielding the might of wind and fire to burn heaven and earth. The Nine Rivers boil and the Four Seas surge; rivers and seas are cooked as if in a cauldron. With fierce flames, temper, scorch, and blast the evil spirits until they are burned away. Destroy mountain sprites, forest spirits such as the Wood Guests, demons, ghosts, and foul influences. Lady Wu You hunts down evil demons throughout the Three Realms. The Five Chang, evil shamans, ghosts, monsters, and plague-bearing spirits flee a thousand li at the first touch of Bing-Ding fire, the Heavenly Stems that symbolize the Fire Virtue of the South. The Xun wind and thunderclaps burst forth together; the bodies of ten thousand ghosts are utterly destroyed and reduced to dust. Let the command be carried out with all haste, in accordance with the statutes.

Incantation for Setting Camp and Concealing the Body

Raise a wooden city in the East, a fire city in the South, a metal city in the West, a water city in the North, and an earth city at the center. Let the divine troops of each direction command their soldiers and officers, arraying themselves in camps across the Five Directions to stand guard and protect. May I hide within the Palace of the Sun and the Palace of the Moon. Let me wield the art of concealment, so that water and fire, plague, ghosts and spirits, and every kind of calamity cannot harm me. Let my body be hidden within the palace of the Great Sage. Om, guard and sustain my body; protect me. I summon the Rakshasas and Yakshas to aid me and keep me safe. Fire wheel, quickly cover my body! Fire wheel, quickly hide me! Fire wheel, quickly transform me and make me disappear!

Incantation for Commanding Water

Pure water reflects the radiance of the sun and moon. Visualize the Northern Dipper within the water, with the Three Platforms—the name of a star asterism—reflected inside it. Sprinkle this sacred water to dispel misfortune and calamity. Swiftly, in accordance with the statute, put this into effect.

Body-Consecration Incantation

With reverence, I issue this command: swiftly transform my body.

Water-Consecration Incantation

Pure water reflects the radiance of the sun and moon. Visualize the Northern Dipper within the water, with the Three Platforms reflected inside it. Sprinkle this sacred water to dispel misfortune and calamity. Swiftly, in accordance with the statute, put this into effect.

Body-Consecration Incantation

With reverence, I command the five viscera and six bowels within the ailing body; the Nine Palaces and Seven Luminaries, the stations and spirits within the human body that correspond to the stars; the twelve spirit chambers; the limbs, sinews, and bones; the skin and blood vessels; the nine apertures, the body’s nine openings; and the nutritive and defensive Qi that circulates within and protects the body. I also command the 180 numinous gates, the 360 bone joints, and the 84,000 pores. The Three Hun souls on the left and the Seven Po souls on the right, the Three Divisions and Eight Radiances—the systems of spirits and vital essences within the body—and the twenty-four spirits: from this moment, withdraw and cease protecting the ailing body.

You are the Supreme One’s son and the Dark Emperor’s grandson: you wear a vermilion phoenix on your head and tread upon the Black Tortoise. The Azure Dragon guards you on the left, and the White Tiger stands watch on the right. The Vermilion Bird leads the way before you, holding banners and pennants; the Black Tortoise follows behind, carrying bells and drums. The Azure Dragon supports and welcomes you; the White Tiger attends and escorts you.

Now I command this ailing body: let the heart remain untouched by evil intrusion, the liver undisturbed by illness, the lungs unharmed by evil, the kidneys free of confusion, the spleen free of alarm, and the stomach free of filth. Let the whole body be pure; may no evil force intrude. Let spirit officials and troops lead the way, and the spirits of the five directions stand beside the body, accompanying the sacred water as it is applied.

Chamber-Consecration Incantation

Next, I command the sickroom: first, let the wood of the east wither and break; second, sprinkle toward the southern position of Wu, so that the fire is extinguished.

Chamber-Consecration Incantation

Next, I command the sickroom: first, let the wood of the east wither and break; second, sprinkle toward the southern position of Wu, so that the fire is extinguished; third, sprinkle toward the west, so that metal and stone shatter; fourth, sprinkle toward the north, so that the sea dries up; fifth, sprinkle toward the center, so that the earth splits apart. Sprinkle a person, and that person will live forever; sprinkle a ghost, and that ghost will be annihilated. A thousand kinds of evil Qi and ten thousand strange manifestations will all dissipate and diminish with the sacred water. Swiftly, in accordance with the statute, put this into effect.

Plague-Ending Incantation

Essences of the five directions, spirits of the lands of the five directions: you roam through the four seasons, bringing cold and heat, and red and blue Qi. By the command of the Celestial Emperor, I sever your forms. You must depart at once and may not remain. Wind and thunder roar; swords and halberds stand like a forest. Your names have been entered in the registers of Fengdu, the Daoist underworld, and your titles have been reported to the Northern Office, the government bureau of the dead. Swiftly, in accordance with the statute, put this into effect.

The four realms—Heaven, Earth, humanity, and ghosts—are all cut off and blocked. The Celestial Gate clamps the head, and the Earth Axis clamps the tail; head and tail join, bringing everlasting extinction and severance. The spell ends with “Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands,” declaring that the order must be carried out without delay.

Spell for the Overall Command of the Five Thunders

By command of the Celestial Emperor, summon the thunder gods. The Celestial Gate clamps the head, and the Earth Axis clamps the tail; head and tail join, bringing everlasting extinction and severance. The order must be carried out at once.

Spell for the Overall Command of the Five Thunders

By command of the Celestial Emperor, summon the thunder gods. The thunder gods reach upward to the Limitless and govern the netherworld below. They harmonize Yin-Yang and set the Kui and Gang stars in motion—the stars of the Northern Dipper that symbolize authority. Their thunderous might is resplendent, their punitive force fierce, and their thunderclaps shake the world. All three realms obey their commands; the sun, moon, and stars move according to their orders. Mists surge, and rivers and seas roar.

I summon the generals and command them to descend swiftly to the ritual altar and receive their orders: destroy evil influences and spirits. Mountain demons, sprites, and other monsters must all turn to fine dust. Even if mountains are moved and peaks toppled, all must proceed in accordance with the Way of Heaven. The Fire-Wheel Divine General must not linger or delay. Wherever the talismanic command reaches, it must be carried out at once.

Spell for Summoning the Merit Officer

The jade script of the Mysterious Bureau refers to documents and divine offices of the Daoist gods. The Merit Officer oversees meritorious deeds, administers affairs in the Jade Clarity realm, and submits reports to the Three Heavens—the three celestial realms in Daoist cosmology. The Supreme Emperor has already issued his command. Divine radiance should appear swiftly; the order must be carried out at once.

Spell for Summoning the Golden-Fire Heavenly Troops

Fire Bells of the South Pole and Golden-Fire Heavenly Troops, leave the Xun Palace—the southeast direction among the Eight Trigrams—and descend to the Li Gate, the south. Bring your blazing, radiant fire might and descend swiftly to manifest your power. Let intention be the commander and Qi (vital energy) the divine force. Three Heavens. The Supreme Emperor has already issued his command. Divine radiance should appear swiftly; the order must be carried out at once.

Spell for Summoning the Golden-Fire Heavenly Troops

Fire Bells of the South Pole and Golden-Fire Heavenly Troops, leave the Xun Palace and descend to the Li Gate. Manifest swiftly with your blazing fire might. Let intention be the commander and Qi the divine force. I now bring them together, congealing and transforming them into form. Gather them in, and they can become an Elixir; release them, and they can transform into a spirit. The virtue of Heaven and Earth joins in harmony, while the radiance of the sun and moon is drawn in. Descend swiftly and unite with me in accord with the true Dao. The order must be carried out at once.

Spell of the Golden-Fire Heavenly Troops

The Perfected Lord of Thunder and Fire commands the celestial Fire Division and is a deity who carries out the Mandate of Heaven. He leads the Fire Division’s celestial troops, including the Golden Fire Celestial Soldiers, fire troops, and fire officers, with blazing flames at his side. They ring bells and beat drums, wave fire bells, and send thunderbolts flashing as wind and fire surge through the air. They expose and defeat evil spirits, leaving them nowhere to hide, until they are burned away and reduced to fine dust. May this prayer be carried out swiftly in accordance with the laws of Heaven.

Perfected Lord of Thunder and Fire, Golden Fire Celestial Soldiers, I now summon you: reveal your true forms at once. Seize all demonic forces, heterodox practitioners, venomous dragons, and monstrous spirits, and drive them together into the wheel of fire. Burn and destroy them until they are reduced to fine dust. May this prayer be carried out swiftly in accordance with the laws of Heaven.

Perfected Lord of Thunder and Fire, Golden Fire Celestial Soldiers, I now summon you: reveal your true forms at once. Seize all demonic forces, heterodox practitioners, venomous dragons, and monstrous spirits, and drive them together into the wheel of fire. Burn them to ashes so they can never be reborn. May this prayer be carried out swiftly in accordance with the laws of Heaven.

Invocation to the Two Emissaries Cui and Xiang

Qingling, Qingling, General of the Fire Bell, you have received my talismanic command and ritual authority. I now summon you to appear. You hold a radiance of fire in your hand, its brilliance reaching straight to the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing), the three highest deities honored in Daoism. Wherever your divine sword points, thunder descends at once; countless wheels of fire fill heaven and earth. All spirits and monsters must submit, and the mountain demons and forest ghosts must vanish and perish. Come swiftly to the ritual altar with the speed of wind and fire. May this prayer be carried out swiftly in accordance with the laws of Heaven.

Second Spell for Urging Birth by the Celestial Soldiers

The Spirit of Yellow Radiance from Nanchang nourishes the fetus with the light of his jade eyes. When the ten months are complete, the fetus’s bones have fully formed. The birth-protecting emissary Han, the Elder, together with the Director of Destinies, the Director of Registers, and the holy spirits guarding the birthing chamber, have all received talismanic commands from the Nine Heavens. They watch over and protect the mother, helping the child to be born safely. The talismanic command enters the five organs, so that the fetus swiftly leaves the mother’s body. May this prayer be carried out swiftly in accordance with the laws of Heaven.

The wondrous true spirit of the Fire Bell dwells in the heavens and watches over and protects childbirth. The Lord Han, who holds talismans and oversees assistance in childbirth, together with the Five Emperors, the Three Terraces (celestial star officials), the Seven Primordial Ones (deified figures of the Northern Dipper), and other divine beings, each aid the fetus’s soul and life force. Corpse demons and other evil influences draw near, seeking to trouble the birth; the gods must preserve human life and drive away these malign forces. May the divine talisman cover and protect them, keeping the mother and newborn as pure and serene as ice and jade. May this prayer be carried out swiftly in accordance with the laws of Heaven.

Spell for Transformation of Form

General Tianpeng and the Divine Lord of the North Emperor patrol the four directions, hunting down lustful ghosts and evil influences, preserving human life, and eradicating traces of wickedness. May the divine talisman cover and protect the person, keeping them as pure and serene as ice and jade. May this prayer be carried out swiftly in accordance with the laws of Heaven.

Spell for Transformation of Form

The General Tianpeng, a Daoist protector deity, and the Divine Lord of the Northern Emperor, the principal deity of the north, patrol the Three Realms of heaven, earth, and humanity, widely aiding all living beings. They destroy evil ghosts, reducing them to dust. Swiftly, in accordance with the law.

Purification of the Body Incantation

I cleanse my body with the moon’s radiance and refine and nourish my true nature with sunlight. Immortals assist me, and Jade Maidens protect my form. The Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions, the twenty-eight stellar groups that encircle the heavens, move at my command. On my left are the Six Jia divine generals; on my right, the Six Ding divine generals. Thunder and lightning are before me; wind and clouds are behind. A thousand kinds of evil Qi and ten thousand kinds of impurity depart with the turbid Qi, and my body is thereby purified. Swiftly, in accordance with the law.

Purification of the Mouth Incantation

Tianpeng, Tianpeng, holding a precious sword across your chest. You bear the command of the Northern Emperor and possess great supernatural powers. Please purify my mouth and tongue, and make me cautious in speech, so that no impure Qi may intrude. The Great Dao commands the Six Jia and Six Ding divine generals to overturn mountains and block seas, carrying out their orders without pause, day or night. Swiftly, in accordance with the law.

Purification of Heaven and Earth Incantation

Heaven and earth are clear and open; the four directions encircle and protect like garments. Mysterious Water, sacred water with purifying power, washes away impurity and drives off ill omens. Two youths guard the gates, and the Seven Spirits protect the chamber. With earnest cultivation, I refine numinous Qi, gathering the Qi of all things into firm strength. Within and without, all is upright and harmonious; blessings and emoluments endure. Swiftly, in accordance with the law.

Transformation of the Deity Incantation

Lingbao, a revered Daoist deity, issues a command, transforming the spirits within my body. I carry out Heaven’s commands and marshal thunder; I govern the Three Realms and direct the myriad spirits. I now transform my appearance; may the form of the true deity descend swiftly. Swiftly, in accordance with the law.

Protection Incantation

The Azure Dragon guards my left, and the White Tiger my right; the Vermilion Bird stands before me, and the Black Tortoise behind. The Yellow Dragon guards my lungs, and the Big Dipper rests in my hands. I sit upon a Jade throne, accompanied by Taiyi, a revered Daoist deity. I now summon the celestial gods and earthly spirits, together with the divine generals and officials of this altar, to surround me before and behind, on the left and right, above and below, and to protect and aid me. Fierce gods and evil ghosts can hear only my voice; they cannot see my form. Should any offender intrude, bind them and send them to Fengdu, the underworld’s seat of judgment, to be sentenced according to the law. Swiftly, in accordance with the law.

Seven Whites Incantation

The First White Star enters the position of Greedy Wolf; the Second White Star lies beside Great Gate; the Third White Star occupies the position of Wealth Store; the Fourth White Star takes the place of Literary Star; the Fifth White Star is within the position of Chaste Virtue; the Sixth White Star occupies the direction of Martial Song; and the Seventh White Star lies beneath Army Breaker. The three souls return together to their hidden abode. Only when the Five Stars and Five Shadows—the star spirits and their corresponding shadow spirits—are joined does the Jade Emperor command that the Celestial Dipper (the stellar spirit of the Northern Dipper) be worn. The Upper Terrace guards my body, the Middle Terrace guards my life, and the Lower Terrace slays evil ghosts. The Seventh White Star lies beneath Army Breaker; the three souls return together to their hidden abode. Only when the Five Stars and Five Shadows are joined does the Jade Emperor command that the Celestial Dipper be worn. The Upper Terrace guards my body, the Middle Terrace guards my life, and the Lower Terrace slays ten thousand ghosts. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Incantation for Summoning the Fire Rhinoceros

The Supreme Lord issues the command to summon; Zhu Yan descends. Thunder crashes on the left, and lightning follows on the right. Black mist wells up from the nostrils, spreading across Heaven and Earth. Wind is summoned and rain called forth; ghosts and monsters swallow in terror, and even the spirits are shaken. The Great Celestial Dipper manifests its true form, holding an iron staff and beating the yang soul—the soul of the living. The Black Tiger charges past, treading upon wind and clouds. Turn the Qian position and stabilize the Xun position, plunging Heaven and Earth into darkness. Let wicked beings perish at once—what ghosts would dare remain? Those who defy the command will face no light punishment. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Five Thunder Incantation

Heavenly thunder rumbles faintly; divine thunder crashes with a mighty roar. Dragon thunder erupts, and water thunder surges. Thunderfire of the She Command, governed by the She Command deity, and bolts of lightning crisscross. Once divine might is unleashed, evil spirits and monsters are cut down and destroyed. The Supreme Lord issues the command: carry it out at once, with all haste.

Fire Canopy Incantation

The source of the sun, the ancestral source of flame, is the vital energy of the Fire Court of Zhul­ing, the legendary abode of the fire deity in Daoist lore. The Fire Bell deity and the Fire Wheel deity use the power of the fire god to enclose the ghosts in a fiery canopy. Form the thunderfire command, and let bolts of lightning crisscross. Once divine might is unleashed, evil spirits and monsters are cut down and destroyed. The Supreme Lord issues the command: carry it out at once, with all haste.

The primal source of the sun, the ancestral Qi of fire, is the vital essence of the Zhu Ling Fire Palace, the abode of the fire deity in Daoist belief. The Fire Bell Spirit, the Fire Wheel Spirit, and the Fire God Who Covers Demons join their powers to form a net of fire, covering and capturing evil spirits and monsters. The fiery covering extends through the empty expanse in all eight directions. Blazing flames surge up across the world and transform into an iron net.

The Fire Officials, Fire Lords, Fire Emperors, and Fire Gods—all spirits that cause trouble and harm people, whatever their rank—are to be covered, sought out one by one, and subdued. I set the fiery covering in motion: it reaches upward to the boundless Azure Cloud Heaven and downward to the Dharma Realm of the Wind Wheel, the layer that supports the world in the Daoist cosmos. Eastward, it passes through the Wood Source Realm; westward, it ends at the Heaven of the Metal Ancestor; southward, at the Zhu Ling Palace; and northward, at the Great Luo Heaven.

Spirits above cannot descend, and spirits below cannot ascend. Spirits within cannot leave, and spirits outside cannot enter. Every spirit is within my covering net, inside my cavern abode. I respectfully summon the Great Gods of the Fiery Covering, Xu Zhong, Jiang Ju, Zhao Yu, and Zhai Ning: receive my edict, heed my command, and carry it out at once.

Black Covering Incantation

All four quarters and eight directions are sealed off, and the sky is covered with dark clouds. Darkness stretches upward to the Black Marsh of the Celestial River and downward to the nine depths of the netherworld. Black winds, dense fog, and thunder and lightning rise on every side; black mist surges and billows. Black nets, black ropes, black wheels, black thunder, black hail, and clouds of black Qi appear one after another. I perform the Black Veil spell, using the power of darkness to cover and bind the ghosts. The evil spirits are stricken with fear and anguish; ghosts wail and spirits cry out.

I respectfully summon the black winds, dense fog, thunder and lightning, black mist, nets, ropes, wheels, black thunder, black hail, and clouds of black Qi above the Black Marsh of the Celestial River and below the nine depths of the netherworld. I perform the Black Veil spell and bind the ghosts beneath it, leaving the evil spirits stricken with fear and anguish, as ghosts wail and spirits cry out.

I respectfully summon Marshal Tianpeng, Supreme Commander of the Armies; General Xuanwu Ren-Gui; the Great Black Heaven deity Gou Liuji; the Great God of Black Mist Bi Zongyuan; the numinous officer and spirit steed of Yin Thunder, Ma Zongcai; the Immoveable Honored King Song Wenqing; the seven-rank messengers; the Iron-Crowned Messenger; and the officers and soldiers of the Northern Emperor. They wear black armor and carry black halberds, ride black horses, and command black troops. Black clouds blot out the sun, and black Qi gathers and spreads. They stride upon black dragons and ride black tigers, wave black banners, beat black drums and sound black gongs, raise black earth, wield transformations, and reveal their numinous might.

No matter the target’s rank, and regardless of which family they belong to, even if they are a Golden Immortal or an ancient Buddha, they must be made to vanish without a trace. If a shrine and sacrifice have been established by demons and evil spirits, strike them down without the slightest delay. Uproot bricks and hurl tiles; send stones flying and dust billowing. Make mountains collapse, seas run dry, flames go out, and the earth lie flat. Seize and subdue every target, leaving nowhere to hide. The human world is bright and clear, while the gates of the ghosts are pitch-black. The Great Dao flourishes and the immortal way prospers; the demonic way vanishes, and the ghostly way leaves no trace. Nothing can be seen or heard; for a thousand and ten thousand miles, all sinks into dark gloom. The sky is black, the earth is black, the Yellow River is black; heaven, earth, mountains, and rivers are all pitch-black.

Spread everywhere the great veil that covers heaven and earth, enclosing the souls and spirits of ghosts and deities within it. Swiftly muster the troops and horses, send them racing to the eight directions, seize the targets alive, and escort them to the ritual altar. By the command of the Great Emperor Ziwei, a revered deity of the Northern Pole celestial order, I wield the great Black Veil, spreading across the world to capture and subdue all.

“Fire-Axis Rolling Ghost Incantation.”

The Supreme Lord issues the command and entrusts its execution to the thunder. The Vermilion Mound Fire Court, the divine residence that governs flames, blazes with brilliant radiance. Its fire roars and rises through the Three Realms, sweeping away calamity. The raging flames burn away the vital energy and souls of evil spirits, destroying malign forces and disasters. Their power reaches throughout heaven and earth in every direction, while Taiyi, a Daoist deity, sets the celestial energies in motion. The fiery enclosure drops swiftly, and the iron cage opens high above, driving out possessing spirits and forcing them to confess the facts and reveal the truth. Whoever violates the ordinances shall be judged according to the law. Then, urged on by the sound of the incantation, the command is carried out at once, in strict accordance with the law.

Incantation for Pursuing Ghosts with the Fire Crow

Fire Crow Divine General, Fire Bell General, Messenger of the South, Red Crow General: carry the talismanic command and fly swiftly on your steeds, like red horses galloping through flames. The Black-and-Red Grand Marshal wields his sword like a shooting star, charging into the sky and breaking through the earth, leaving evil ghosts nowhere to hide. Stab out malign forces and destroy calamities; command them to explain their origins at once. The words “Yuan heng shi li, jiu chou kou chen” are ritual expressions whose meaning is unclear in the original. Carry this out at once, in strict accordance with the law.

Incantation for Making Ghosts Tremble

The August Heaven issues its decree, and the wind energy of the Xun Gate, associated with the Xun wind, begins to move. As soon as a ghost or apparition takes form, command it to be destroyed; as soon as a spirit appears, make its traces vanish. Command the ghosts who contend with me to give their names at once. Carry this out at once, in strict accordance with the law.

Incantation for Awakening the Soul

Clear and luminous, the Qi of Ren and Gui, the water-associated Heavenly Stems among the Five Phases, turns toward the true realm. Let the three souls return to the body and the seven Po souls settle. The energies of Taiguang, Ling, and You, terms associated with the soul, quickly return to the child’s body—the body of the person receiving the rite. As soon as a ghost or apparition takes form, command it to be destroyed; as soon as a spirit appears, make its traces vanish. Command the ghosts who contend with me to give their names at once. Carry this out at once, in strict accordance with the law.

Incantation for Awakening the Soul

Clear and luminous, the Qi of Ren and Gui turns toward the true realm. Let the three souls return to the body and the seven Po souls settle. The energies of Taiguang, Ling, and You quickly return to the child’s body. Carry this out at once, in strict accordance with the law.

Incantation for Subduing Evil with the Thunder Duke

The Great Celestial Thunder Duke, commander of the thunder, shakes the void with his thunderous voice. Three hundred thousand elite troops stand arrayed, their baleful force filling heaven and earth. They raise flying sand and rolling stones; lightning strikes down the assembled evil. The iron-faced divine general sweeps away demons and devours pestilence with his wolf-toothed jaws. Thunder drums resound across the dark sky, and within ten thousand miles no trace of malign forces remains. The command is transmitted under Heaven’s decree, and evil Qi disperses in the realm of clear emptiness. From above, the realm of Kui and Gang, associated with the Northern Dipper constellations, to below, the palaces of the Nine Springs, all obey the Great Celestial Thunder and Fire decree, forever keeping the winds and Qi pure. Carry this out at once, in strict accordance with the law.

With one turn, the Six Spirits go into action; with two turns, the baleful spirits of the four directions arise; with three turns, the Kui Star and the Gang Star are set in motion; with four turns, dark clouds surge; with five turns, thunder roars; with six turns, thunder and rain subside; with seven turns, rainbow spirits and the drought demon (a creature said to cause drought) are seized, and the spirits of wind and rain who have caused disorder are intercepted and brought beneath the Five Thunders, where they are put to death and destroyed. Swiftly, in accordance with the law!

End of volume eight of the Taishang Sandong Shenzhou.

Volume Nine of the Taishang Sandong Shenzhou

Thunder Rites and Prayers

Altar-Establishing Incantation

The Venerable Lord of Primordial Beginning (a revered Daoist deity) commands the Three Realms of Heaven, Earth, and Water; the Three Officials (deities who govern Heaven, Earth, and Water); mountains and rivers; the Five Sacred Peaks and Four Great Rivers; the nine lands of Kunlun; the sun, moon, and five planets; the Nine Luminaries and Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions; the Thirty-Six Thunder Deities; the Jade Pivot and Jade Balance (referring to celestial phenomena and the movement of the stars); the Perfected Ones of the Five Dippers; and the countless billions of sages and holy beings. Let them all carry out this command and protect my person. Cut down evil and wickedness, subdue demons and monsters, and seize ghosts and spirits. Spirits who govern the local altars and lands throughout the Nine Provinces, swiftly obey this command.

Altar-Establishing Incantation

The Venerable Lord of Primordial Beginning commands the Three Realms of Heaven, Earth, and Water; the Three Officials; mountains and rivers; the Five Sacred Peaks and Four Great Rivers; the nine lands of Kunlun; the sun, moon, and five planets; the Nine Luminaries and Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions; the Thirty-Six Thunder Deities; the Jade Pivot and Jade Balance; the Perfected Ones of the Five Dippers; and the countless billions of sages and holy beings. Let them all obey the command, protect my person, cut down evil and destroy wickedness, subdue demons and monsters, and seize ghosts and spirits. Spirits who govern the local altars and lands throughout the Nine Provinces, swiftly carry out the command.

Thunder-Summoning Incantation

By the command of the Thunder Court, summon the assembled spirits. Let the command reach upward to the boundless heavens and descend to the netherworld. The Precelestial Moon-Obscurer (a divine general or stellar deity associated with the Moon-Obscurer star), the Deputy Marshal Thunder Lord, the two marshals Kang and Liu, the general overseeing rain, and the envoy Lü Kui must all obey the talismanic command and descend swiftly. The Five Sacred Peaks and Four Great Rivers, the spirits among the mountains and rivers, the spirits who govern the local altars and lands throughout the Nine Provinces, and the spirits who receive offerings must all come at the command. Let thunder roar and sweet rain fall everywhere. By order of the Celestial Emperor, I summon you here. To defy the Celestial Emperor’s command is to defy the Most High Clarity (the celestial realm inhabited by Daoist deities). Swiftly, in accordance with the law!

Incantation to the Spirits Who Govern Local Altars and Thunder

Spirits who govern local altars and thunder, you possess the awe-inspiring power of the Jade Court (the heavenly divine office). You can summon wind and rain and command ghosts and spirits. From Fengdu (the city of ghosts and spirits in Daoist belief) above to the netherworld below, you command thunder, lightning, and bolts, sternly carrying out Heaven’s mandate. You wield authority on Heaven’s behalf, punish the wicked, and carry out their sentences. Your power is majestic: you uphold the state and bring relief to the people. In accordance with my talismanic command, swiftly make the thunder roar. Swiftly, in accordance with the law!

The word “also” indicates that further incantations of the same kind follow.

The Jade Emperor (Yuhuang Dadi) issues a command, its might shaking the thunder. The Five Thunders and the thunder and lightning generals direct the celestial troops to carry out the Emperor’s orders and punish the wicked. Majestic and imposing, they support the state and protect the people. Heed my talismanic command, and let thunder sound at once. Hasten and obey the law!

Again

The Jade Emperor issues a command, its might shaking the thunder. The Five Thunders and the thunder and lightning generals direct the celestial troops. Wind and rain rage, while thunder and lightning surge and roar. The talismanic command has been delivered; let rain pour down in torrents. Hasten and obey the law!

Again

Radiance turns back upon itself: this is the essence and Qi of Taiyi, a name associated with a Daoist deity or the origin of the cosmos. Call forth lightning and summon thunder, making the mountain and river spirits vanish without a trace. If any evil being dares to offend, wind and fire shall not cease. I obey the Jade Emperor’s command and pray to protect life for all time. Thunder, destroy the demons and spirits! Wind, fire, and lightning, destroy the malign beings! Blazing flames burn in front; roaring firelight blazes behind. I command the Lord of Thunder to unleash mighty thunderclaps. The heavenly gate turns left; the earth’s axis rushes right. The Thunder God must spring swiftly into action, without delay or pause. Beat the Thunder God’s drum; let thunder and lightning strike together. Their might is fierce and imposing, their baleful force like a boulder shattering. The Lord of Thunder issues the law: carry it out as commanded. Thunder’s mighty warriors, the Jade Purity realm has issued an order: evil demons and wicked ghosts, unleash thunderbolts at once. Hasten and obey the law!

Spell for Yang Days of Flowing Fire

The star Yinghuo, Mars, also regarded as a star deity associated with fire, sets the wheel of flying fire in motion. Its flames shine for ten thousand miles, and thunderbolts follow. Hasten and obey the law!

Spell for Yang Days of the Golden Tiger

Great God of Thunder, General Golden Tiger, fierce and mighty, lay waste to the forests. Hasten and obey the law!

Spell for Yin Days of the Vermilion Bird

The baleful star Vermilion Bird, the divine beast of the south, here a name for a star deity, destroys demons on behalf of all beings. Leaping through the heavens and turning the earth, it sets thunder in motion. Obey the command at once.

Spell for Yang Days of the Golden Tiger

Great God of Thunder, General Golden Tiger, fierce and mighty, lay waste to the forests. Hasten and obey the law!

Spell for Yin Days of the Vermilion Bird

The baleful star Vermilion Bird destroys demons on behalf of all beings. Leaping through the heavens and turning the earth, it sets thunder in motion. Hasten and obey the law!

Spell for Yin Days of the Golden Tiger

The Jade Emperor issues a command; Taiyi’s thunder roars. Its sound shakes the Three Realms, the Daoist realms of heaven, earth, and humanity, while smoke fills the land for ten thousand miles. Fury bursts forth fiercely, and thunderbolts surge straight into the sky. Demons and malign beings are smashed to pieces. Yuan, Heng, Li, Zhen—the four virtues of the Book of Changes—here words of good fortune and success.

Great Divine Incantation of Sudden Fire

The Great God of Sudden Fire is fierce and mighty, able to make the Five Sacred Peaks tremble and reel. Officers, troops, and divine generals from every quarter, come swiftly to my side. Lord of Thunderbolts, shake Heaven and Earth without delay. In accordance with the law, execute this command at once.

Shaoyang Thunder-Rite Incantation

Revered Celestial Sovereign, may thunder answer in all eight directions, resound through the lofty heavens, and reach the deep and distant realms. The thunder of Heaven and the thunder of Earth roar with force through the Celestial Granary. The Thunder Duke urges them on, while the Jade Maiden holds the Thunder-Rite mudra. Xie Xian raises a finger, and divine light surges forth. Its breath is fine as a thread, and demons and ghosts will disperse. The spirits of the earth come to assist, raising their fingers to set the celestial thunder in motion. Sha, hong, jie, zha—the Four-Eyed Old and Ugly Divine Generals, move swiftly, act at once. In accordance with the law, execute this command at once.

Wealth-Transforming Incantation

In Heaven there is a Star of Wealth; on Earth there is a Spirit of Wealth. Yin and Yang nurture and transform the myriad things, shaping and balancing them as a potter shapes clay. Though forms differ between Heaven and Earth, they can respond to one another. I now refine wealth, stringing the coins together and making every unit and fraction clear. When Fire Dragons and Fire Horses encounter fire, they transform into numinous beings. Within are the Four Symbols; without, they correspond to the Five Phases. Messenger of Whirlwinds, General of Blazing Flames, carry it on the wind and transform it with fire, so that all proceeds smoothly in accordance with the Way of Origin, Flourishing, Benefit, and Firmness. In accordance with the law, execute this command at once.

Incantation Commanding the Thunder Duke

I respectfully summon the Thunder Duke: raise the black wind. Iron drums thunder on all four sides, and the force of the storm surges eastward and northward. The currents of Heaven’s veins stir, guarding the Azure Dragon. Come down with me into the human realm and make all things go smoothly at once. The stars seem to sink, and auspicious Qi grows dense. Swiftly send commands across the Five Seas and answer the Northern Elder. Thunder crashes with a tremendous roar, its power extending through Heaven and Earth. Flying sand and rolling stones: a Fire Dragon descends from the sky. Evil essences and demons will vanish without a trace. In accordance with the law, execute this command at once.

Incantation of the Jade Palace in the Divine Empyrean

Heavenly troops of the Ten Directions from the Jade Palace in the Divine Empyrean, clad in green-jade armor, wearing dragon-patterned sashes and tiger-patterned headscarves: subdue the myriad demons and search out ghosts and spirits. Wherever the talismans and registers reach, Dao Qi moves unseen, seizing souls and pursuing wandering spirits, without diminishing one’s allotted years. In accordance with the law, execute this command at once.

Heavenly Origin Incantation

Sea Spirit of the Heavenly Origin, Cangbo, and Tiger Mother, heed this summons. The flowing Yang Qi descends and brings forth anomalies; the Qi of Earth, Wood, Metal, and Fire also transforms in response. The Wind Master, Rain Master, flashes of lightning, and thunderfire all appear together. The incantation takes effect and reaches the Jade Clarity realm; the divine dragon ascends to the ninth and highest position. In accordance with the law, execute this command at once.

O Lord Axiang, deity who governs the rising of rain—O Lord Axiang, please break open the spring’s source and set the thunder chariot in motion. Let thunder roar and lightning flash; send down nourishing rain everywhere to relieve all things parched and dry. Haste, in accordance with the statute!

O Lord Axiang, O Lord Axiang, please break open the spring’s source and set the thunder chariot in motion. Let thunder roar and lightning flash; send down nourishing rain everywhere to relieve all things scorched and withered. Haste, in accordance with the statute!

Rain-Calling Incantation

The Jade Purity Heaven (the celestial realm where revered Daoist deities dwell) issues its sacred decree, its might shaking the Dragon Court. The Five Thunders and thunder-hail obey the command to marshal the heavenly troops. Wind and rain lash together, and flashes of thunder race like shooting stars. The heavenly talisman carries down the command, and rain pours from the sky. Haste, in accordance with the statute!

Rain-Bringing Incantation

Thunder and lightning govern the movement of water energy and bring forth life in all things. The Four Seas obey the command, and the Eight Seas surge and churn. The order to send rain is swiftly delivered: the wicked perish, while the good are allowed to grow. It rescues the people, benefits all things, and nourishes every living being. Haste, in accordance with the statute!

Land-Pacifying Incantation

The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (a revered Daoist deity) establishes peace and order, proclaiming the decree to all spirits. True officials of the mountains and rivers, earth spirits, the earth deity on the left, and the grain deity on the right must not cause disturbance of their own accord. Guide all things back to the righteous path, and make the inner and outer realms solemn and pure. Each one… Haste, in accordance with the statute!

Land-Pacifying Incantation

The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning establishes peace and order, proclaiming the decree to all spirits. True officials of the mountains and rivers, earth spirits, the earth deity on the left, and the grain deity on the right must not cause disturbance of their own accord. Guide all things back to the righteous path, and make the inner and outer realms solemn and pure. Each one should remain in its proper place and guard the dwelling. The Most High (an honorific for the supreme Daoist deity) issues the command to search out and seize evil spirits. The Dharma-Protecting Divine Kings guard those who recite the scriptures. Take refuge in the Great Dao; may all affairs prosper and accord with the righteous path.

Heavenly Thunder Incantation

Heavenly thunder rumbles softly, as dragon and tiger set out together. The deities of Great Hua and Great Mystery drive thunder and lightning at a gallop. They send sand flying and stones tumbling, overturn the sea and gather clouds. They can clear the skies, bring down rain, and capture souls. The Wind-and-Rain High Minister of the Penglai divine retinue; the numinous elder Hao, who wields the iron axe of thunderclaps; Mulang, who drives away evil and wickedness; the howling Lightning Mother; the galloping Thunder Lord; and General Zhenling, who commands the wind-wheel and fire-chariot—all are ordered to set out. Thunderclaps resound for ten thousand miles and subdue ghosts and spirits. Haste, in accordance with the statute!

Eastern Man Thunder Incantation

The Jade Treasure and Cloud-Thunder Great God of the East wears golden armor and carries a divine spear. He captures demons and ghosts and sweeps away all manner of baleful evil. Wherever the divine talisman reaches, evil spirits vanish without a trace. May divine power take effect swiftly, as though carrying out a command.

Eastern Manlei Incantation

The Jade Treasure and Cloud-Thunder Great God of the East wears golden armor and carries a divine spear. He captures demons and ghosts and sweeps away all manner of baleful evil. Wherever the divine talisman reaches, evil spirits vanish without a trace. May divine power take effect swiftly, as though carrying out a command.

Southern Manlei Incantation

The Mysterious Truth and Lightning Great God of the South transforms in countless ways and comes and goes like a cloud. He wears golden armor and carries a wheel of fire. Wherever the divine talisman reaches, all kinds of monsters conceal themselves. May divine power take effect swiftly, as though carrying out a command.

Western Manlei Incantation

The Greatly Wondrous and Wind-Chasing Great God of the West dwells in a realm of utter emptiness, profound and mysterious. He can drive out chimei—spirits of the mountains and forests—and slay demons. Wherever the divine talisman reaches, evil ghosts leave no trace. May divine power take effect swiftly, as though carrying out a command.

Northern Manlei Incantation

The Mysterious Eminence and Rain-Gathering Great God of the North can ascend to the heavenly realm and descend into the underworld. His divine power fills heaven, earth, and all four directions. He cuts down the wicked and seals off the gates of the ghost realm. Chimei and demons are also slain. Wherever the divine talisman reaches, evil ghosts leave no trace. May divine power take effect swiftly, as though carrying out a command.

Northern Manlei Incantation

The Mysterious Eminence and Rain-Gathering Great God of the North can ascend to the heavenly realm and descend into the underworld. His divine power fills heaven, earth, and all four directions. He cuts down the wicked and seals off the gates of the ghost realm. Wherever the divine talisman reaches, demons are swiftly captured. May divine power take effect swiftly, as though carrying out a command.

Northeastern Manlei Incantation

The Transcendent-Saving, Primordial-Heaven General of the Northeast has an elusive, ever-changing course. Dao Qi—the vital energy of the Dao, as understood in Daoism—accords with the true Dao. He swiftly drives out demons and evil spirits and severs the souls of monsters. Wherever the divine talisman reaches, no demon or evil spirit can remain. May divine power take effect swiftly, as though carrying out a command.

Southeastern Manlei Incantation

The Life-Nurturing, Fire-Burning General of the Southeast has awesome might, reaching up to the heavenly realm and extending into profound mystery. He subdues demons and ghosts, making monsters disappear without a trace. Now I command him: may his divine radiance shine forth and his power blaze anew. May divine power take effect swiftly, as though carrying out a command.

Southwestern Manlei Incantation

In the southwest are the Great Spirit, who governs this direction, and the Great General Who Swallows Demons. The Lord of Numinosity of the Nine Heavens is also among them. The southern deities favor the nurture of life. The Great General Who Burns with Fire is mighty and renowned, reaches directly to the heavenly realm, and corresponds to the Dark Mystery of the South Pole. They can subdue demons and destroy evil spirits, goblins, and strange beings. Now, by command, I dispatch them to make the numinous light shine clear and their divine might manifest. Hasten and obey the laws and commands.

Man-Lei Incantation for the Southwest

In the southwest are the Great Spirit and the Great General Who Swallows Demons. The light of the Lord of Numinosity of the Nine Heavens penetrates both the inner and outer realms. They rouse the divine immortals of the heavenly realm, seize evil spirits, capture ghosts and monsters, and protect all living beings. Let the evil spirits depart at once. Hasten and obey the laws and commands.

Man-Lei Incantation for the Northwest

In the northwest are boundless deities and the Great General Who Drives Out Souls. They can reach heaven and transform themselves, and command the Huo-luo officials and troops, the thunder department’s divine generals. They drive away evil spirits, cut down monsters, and help bring stability to the realm and peace to the people. When they see me, they must vanish; they must harm no one. Hasten and obey the laws and commands.

Incantation for Pursuing the Soul

May the Yin spirit come to my banner, and the Yang spirit return to your ruined body. By the command of Tianpeng of the Northern Dipper, let Xuanwu open the gates of the underworld. Let the soul ride upon my summons and hasten to attach itself to my banner. Hasten and obey the laws and commands.

Incantation for Attaching the Soul to the Banner

May the Yang spirit return to your soul, and the Yin spirit return to your ruined body. Let the soul heed my summons and hasten to attach itself to the numinous banner. Let the workings of Heaven and Earth each follow their proper course; let the soul return to the body. Let the spirits within the five viscera settle, no longer disturbed by the terror of death. Return to the corpse.

Incantation for Attaching the Soul to the Banner

May the Yang spirit return to your soul, and the Yin spirit return to your ruined body. Let the soul heed my summons and hasten to attach itself to the numinous banner. Let the workings of Heaven and Earth each follow their proper course; let the soul return to the body. Let the spirits within the five viscera settle, no longer disturbed by the terror of death. Return to the corpse and restore the spirit, preserving body and peace forever. Hasten and obey the laws and commands.

Incantation for Restoring the Soul

The Three Divisions’ Life-Giving Spirits, who govern human life, have been made manifest, and the Eight Radiances, the inner landscapes or divine realms described in Daoism, have become clear. Now I summon you: return to the spirits and restore your numinous Qi. Let all proceed in accordance with the laws and commands.

By the talismanic command of Tianpeng, pursue and seize the soul. May Yang not restrain the soul, and Yin not constrain the po. Let the three hun arrive swiftly and the seven po descend at once; let them return from the formless to the formed, and clearly restore the original body. Hasten and obey the laws and commands.

Talismanic Incantation for Pursuing the Soul

Marshal Tianpeng, the Daoist guardian deity, descends and manifests his power. He steps the astral pattern, dons his armor, and guards the human body. The thirty-six heavenly generals display their might, ascending to heaven and entering the earth to slay demons, monsters, and spirits. They destroy demonic lairs and eliminate evil forces; even as they range across Mount Tai and the Five Sacred Mountains, they never stop. They pass in turn through all ten halls of Luofeng in the underworld, seizing souls and allowing them no place to linger. They draw the three hun souls back into the body and pursue the seven po souls, gathering them at the Divine Court, where consciousness resides in the head. Even an enemy afflicted by a curse cannot resist. The Jade Emperor’s edict admits no disobedience. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Incantation of the Soul-Pursuing General

Divine might pervades the Five Sacred Mountains; primordial Qi (vital energy) courses through heaven and earth. Flames surge up ten thousand feet; lightning flashes and thunder races across the sky. The imperial bell resounds as if it could shatter Kunlun. By the might of my eight arms, I transform and reveal my form, showing no mercy. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Incantation of the Soul-Pursuing General

Divine might pervades the Five Sacred Mountains; primordial Qi courses through heaven and earth. Flames surge up ten thousand feet; lightning flashes and thunder races across the sky. The imperial bell resounds as if it could shatter Kunlun. By the might of my eight arms, I transform and reveal my form. With four heads and red hair, I strike fear into gods and ghosts. I destroy demonic lairs and seize souls, bringing them to rest. I retrieve the souls and return them to the body, bringing the dead back to life. Above, I uphold Heaven’s De; below, I save the people. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Incantation of the Water-and-Fire Ropes for Pursuing Souls

I respectfully summon the deity of the water rope, the general of the fire rope, the inspectors of the Nine Heavens, and the soul-pursuing envoys Xu Shouzhong, Zhai Shining, and Zhao Ziyu, together with Tianpeng’s Black Fiends and three hundred thousand troops of Dongyuan. In accordance with the ordinances of the Northern Emperor, I command you to bind the evil spirits. Gods of the Southern Dipper, generals of the Northern Dipper, receive this command and swiftly descend with your divine might. Go at once to the places where the sick person ordinarily walks, acts, sits, and rests. Search far and near in every direction for all evil haunts, including demonic shrines, licentious temples, spirit caves, the domains of local rulers and water spirits, and the courts of the underworld. Retrieve the sick person’s souls, bring them back from death, and restore them to health. The emperor’s edict admits no disobedience; not a moment may be lost. Hasten, swiftly go!

Incantation of the She Command

Thunder of the She Command, you contain the might of heroes. Draw upon Heaven’s authority and rely on Heaven’s protection. I command you to come, bringing the dead back to life and restoring them to health. The emperor’s edict admits no disobedience; not a moment may be lost. Hasten, swiftly go!

Incantation of the She Command

The thunder of the Earth Altar is the power of thunder under the Earth God’s command. The Qi of heroes is a fierce and mighty force. By the power and protection of Heaven, I command you to come and destroy evil spirits who defy the Way. Marshal Xuhuo, a general of the Thunder Department, shall escort the summoned divine troops on my behalf. The time ordained by Heaven has arrived: the four quarters of Heaven and Earth will quake, and thunder and rain will descend. In accordance with the decree, carry this out at once.

Incantation of the Four Arrows

Great Thunder God and General White Tiger, fierce and mighty, able to shatter mountains and forests: command the sword-bearing fire wheels and thunder troops to burn the dwellings of ghosts and sweep away demons. The baleful star of the Vermilion Bird, a star deity named for the Vermilion Bird, is charged with attacking evil beings and hunting down spirits. The power of thunder surges forth, bringing evil spirits crashing to the ground. General Official Talisman, a divine general in charge of talismanic commands, sets the troops of the Thunder Department in motion and hastens the thunder decree, carrying out punishment from the underworld with thunder. In accordance with the decree, carry this out at once.

Incantation of Black Thunder

The Celestial Emperor issues the command. A flying sword strikes, and black thunder surges and shakes the heavens. Great Sha, General Heavenly Sha, General Jiachi Earth Sha, General Naye Year Sha, General Molu Month Sha, General Tianjia Day Sha, General Mohe Hour Sha, General Zhaka Water Sha, General Lexia Fire Sha, and the many deities of the Thirty-Six Thunder Sha of Mohe: together, shake Heaven and Earth at this moment and burst through the Thunder City. Summon flying thunderbolts from the sky to destroy evil spirits and demons; send down abundant sweet rain to aid all living beings. Sha spirits who defy the command shall also be struck down in accordance with the talismanic decree. In accordance with the decree, carry this out at once.

Incantation of Thunder Weapons and Sha

Om, thunder roars and lightning crashes—a sound that summons the thunder powers. Summon and dispatch the Flowing-Gold White Tiger, a general of the Thunder Department, with all speed. By Heaven’s might, thunder rages and moves like wind and lightning; its power is fierce enough to shake Heaven and Earth. Thunder gods who defy the command shall be beheaded by the flying sword. If you do not come, you will be transformed into yellow stone. The True King issues the command, pursuing the divine dragon and riding upon the clouds. Om, hum, hum—sounds of the incantation. The assembled gods bow to the command, and demons return to the righteous path. If you still dare to disobey, you will be reduced to dust.

Incantation of the Eastern Demon-Illuminator

The Way of Heaven accords with the True Way; the sun and moon shine in mutual radiance. The sky is clear, the earth at peace, and even the Five Sacred Peaks can collapse. The Bright God assists me; Heaven’s might is enough to drive away the calamities of war. Its force shakes the four quarters, summons fierce winds, and brings the divine troops down swiftly as clouds. In accordance with the decree, carry this out at once.

Incantation of the Southern Fierce Sha

The flames of Heaven pierce through and shine with radiance; the flames of Earth also gleam with awe-inspiring power. Once summoned, the divine attendants spread throughout the four directions. Their light illuminates all around, driving away and sending off the calamities of war. Their might subdues and disperses baleful winds; they descend swiftly, surging like clouds. Hasten and obey the commands.

Incantation of Fierce Sha of the South

The flames of Heaven pierce through and shine with radiance; the flames of Earth gleam with awe-inspiring power. Once summoned, the divine attendants spread throughout the four directions. Their light shines everywhere, driving away and sending off the baleful forces of the Five Directions. Bearing the Qi of the ranked lunar mansions, they reach upward to connect with Tiangang, the Celestial Ladle of the Northern Dipper. Hasten and obey the commands.

Incantation of Blazing Lightning at the Center

Taiyi Yuanhuang, the august heavenly deity, commands Tiangang to carry out its duties. The Central Emperor governs all and carries out the Jade Emperor’s will. Let your wondrous power appear and be established at once in the Five Directions. At my sword’s point, clouds and mist surge high. Hasten and obey the commands.

Incantation of Mighty Fierceness in the West

Heavenly thunder and earthly thunder sound together, their roar shaking the eight directions. Thunderbolts can shatter mountains, their force reaching up to the sky. I now summon you all to come together to where the Emperor Lord resides. Hasten and obey the commands.

Incantation of Fierce Thunder in the North

The deep waters of the eight directions extend throughout all things, linking with Heaven and responding to Earth, revealing numinous signs and the Qi of Tiangang. After the Fire Immortals have absorbed all things, they come together to where Tiangang resides. Hasten and obey the commands.

Incantation for Dispatching Memorials

The mantra sounds om and hum; bani jiuyuan, syllables of the incantation. Set thunder and lightning in motion, making them resound through the Three Heavens, the levels of the heavenly realm in Daoist teaching. Act swiftly; follow at once. From primordial undifferentiation, return to the Qi of the Origin and coalesce into a sacred document. Sweep away all baleful forces and impurities, letting the true Qi circulate freely. Join with Heaven and extend through the Five Sacred Peaks and the rivers and mountains. Let the spirits stand in attendance at my sides and heed my commands. Once my Fulu are issued, they break through the clouds and mist; the memorial is presented straight upward and swiftly delivered before the Dao.

Incantation of the Northern Emperor’s Divine Might

I assist the Primordial Emperor, bringing universal aid to the four directions. I stand in attendance at his sides and heed his commands. Once my Fulu are issued, they break through the clouds and mist; the memorial is presented straight upward and swiftly delivered before the Dao.

I assist the Primordial Sovereign, a revered Daoist deity, and universally save living beings in the four directions. I look up to the Golden Palace in the heavens and attend court before the Jade Emperor. I stand foremost among the perfected ones and am the source of the myriad Dao. No distance is too great for my sight, no darkness too deep for my light. I pass freely through the Three Realms, the levels of heaven in Daoist teaching, and shine upon the remote lands in all eight directions, scattering the demons and extinguishing the myriad ghosts.

I possess a treasured sword, its seven stars shining brightly. It thrusts upward to the Dipper and Ox constellations and subdues demon kings below. The Azure Dragon guards my left, the White Tiger my right, the Black Tortoise my rear, and the Vermilion Bird my front. I serve as commander of the hall, directing all manner of memorials and documents. I am chief of the Five Offices and honored above the hundred spirits. My divine might spreads everywhere, and my sacred De is vast. I govern the mountains and rivers and command the waterways. The sun and moon circle around me; my power is enough to subdue dragons. I wear a canopy crown and hold a golden bell. When I shake the mountains, they split apart; when I stir the sea, its waters open a passage. I govern the celestial heavens, and the earth is joined to me. With a sweep of my hand, I command the source of the myriad transformations. Golden youths serve as guards, and jade maidens attend me. I hold Mount Tai and Mount Hua in my hands and tread upon Mount Kongtong. The myriad forms shine with majesty, and the ninefold heavenly palaces rise in towering grandeur. This method is transmitted from generation to generation and endures as long as Heaven and Earth. Let it be carried out swiftly in accordance with the statutes. The text later repeats that golden youths and jade maidens attend me, that I hold the famous mountains in my hands and tread upon Mount Kongtong, and that the myriad forms shine while the ninefold heavens tower. It then prays that the art be passed down forever and endure as long as Heaven, concluding with the formal command, “Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.”

Incantation of Thunder and Fire for Extinguishing Tomb Disputes

The Most High, Mysterious Origin, a revered Daoist deity, dwells in the Purple Heaven of the Nine Capitals. He orders the souls and protects life. Perfected One of High Purity, I have received and wear the Daoist teachings and have inherited the instructions of the Great Mystery. May I attain long life and enduring vision, and may my body ascend to immortality. May the tomb remain peaceful and free from harm for ages; may disputes among ghosts, haunting spirits, and all acts of evil cease. May the souls be calm and joyful, and may no malign Qi arise. If wandering ghosts or goblins dare to assail my spirit, the Northern Emperor will command them to stop and send their baleful Qi down into the abyss. I have received my register from the August Sovereign and respectfully submit my report to the Jade Purity, a celestial deity or palace title. Those who follow the Great Dao shall be raised up; those who oppose it shall be burned away. Wherever the Northern Emperor casts his gaze, the souls of all demons are seized. The Thirty-Two Emperors drive out evil influences and pestilence. The spirits withdraw, and the cultivator’s body ascends to Kunlun. I devour demons and evil spirits and become an Emperor Lord. I seal the gate of ghosts and open the gate of life for myself. I summon the messengers, who arrive as swiftly as racing clouds. The Thunder Lord subdues baleful forces and utterly destroys the Qi of demons. When I visualize the August Sovereign, the demons and pestilence disperse. After the Directorate records and adjudicates the case, it submits its report to the Emperor Lord. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Blessing the Brush

The spirit brush possesses wondrous power, joining the two Qi of Yin and Yang into one. Tianpeng, a Daoist protector deity, unites with me; the great immortals guard my body. They drive away every illness and grant me a long life. With a sweep of the talisman brush, the people find peace. By command, let this be done at once.

Respectfully, I ask that this be presented to the Lord Emperor. By command, let this be done at once.

Incantation for Blessing the Brush

The spirit brush possesses wondrous power, joining the two Qi of Yin and Yang into one. Tianpeng unites with me; the great immortals guard my body. They drive away every illness and grant me a long life. With a sweep of the talisman brush, the people find peace. By command, let this be done at once.

Incantation for Inviting the General

Upright Qi rises into the heavens, while the essence of Earth’s origin shines forth. The power of the eight directions becomes clearly manifest; few know this ten-character spell. As the brush touches down, divine power moves with it; the stars of Kuigang radiate numinous energy. They drive away every illness and ensure that all remains safe and auspicious.

Incantation for Covering the Altar

Heaven covers me; Earth supports me. The mystic stars of the Northern Dipper become my garments. I conceal and protect the disciple [name] within the palace of the Seven Primordial Stars, in the land of flowing fire. The Heavenly Stems cannot intrude; the Earthly Branches cannot harm. The sun protects me; whoever does not protect me shall perish. By command, let this be done at once.

Incantation of the Three Luminaries

The Yin and Yang of Heaven and Earth move in mutual exchange, gathering the subtle essence of Qi. Seven spirits protect life and enable me to ascend to the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing), the three highest deities revered in Daoism. The Two Yellow Mysteries descend to guard the talisman. The Black Soul Rakshasa leads an army of three hundred thousand; a hundred-zhang beast exhales and draws in essence. I wield my sword to drive out evil and banish demonic spirits. The divine talisman circulates, and a thousand kinds of demons are utterly destroyed. The Northern Emperor commands that evil spirits may not linger. By command, let this be done at once.

Wind-Raising Incantation II

The four seasons move in due order; divine power and true Qi are harmonized. I perform the Fire-Flying Formula, and Heaven and Earth are at once shrouded in darkness. The celestial realms in all four directions close and darken into this form. The Northern Emperor commands that evil spirits may not linger. By command, let this be done at once.

Wind-Raising Incantation II

The four seasons move in due order; divine power and true Qi are harmonized. I perform the Fire-Flying Formula, and Heaven and Earth are at once shrouded in darkness. The celestial realms in all four directions close, their color like clouds. Fine and beautiful substance is refined into form, shining brightly in support of the Heavenly Truth. By command, let this be done at once.

Wind-Raising General and officers, officials, and troops of every division, heed my command: turn contrary winds into favorable winds; array the wind and clouds; make Heaven and Earth shine bright and the mountains tremble. In all directions, above and below, let everything move as the seal of the rite points. When I press my seal, wind and fire race ten thousand li. Thunderlight blazes; the Fire Lord of the South appears, and every kind of flying venom rises with him, shaking the four quarters. The numinous talisman transforms into a divine form, swiftly revealing its divine radiance. Fengyi and Guanbo, spirits of the wind, stand beside my altar. They pass through the woods, erase every trace, and send sand and stones swirling through the air.

Om, hum, hum; om, command, command; om, numinous, numinous. Divine tigers and tiger spirits, act at once and with all speed. Sky-shaking flames and thunder subdue the myriad evils. Today I summon you: swiftly reveal your true forms. The wind blows from Gen, the northeast; at the Earth Gate, where earthly energy enters and departs, array the troops. Let Xun, the southeast, be the road ahead; summon the fierce baleful wind. Let all things serve as signs of verification, and let Kun, the north, subdue the myriad evils. Today I summon you: swiftly reveal your true forms. The wind blows from Gen; at the Earth Gate, array the troops. Let Xun be the road ahead; summon the fierce baleful wind. Let all things serve as signs of verification, gathering in the Kun and Zhen palaces, the north and east. The Supreme Emperor has issued his command: guard the thunder forever. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Cloud-Raising Incantation

The Four Seas return to the Primordial One’s Qi; the spirits of the Five Sacred Peaks hurry forth to obey. Let mountains and rocks split apart, blocking those who resist and defy. If strange creatures with exposed scales appear, subdue them as well. Set the clouds and Qi in motion, gather form and substance, and refine them into true forms. Six Ding and Six Jia, the guardian generals revered in Daoism, swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Thunder-Summoning Incantation

Heavenly thunder and earthly thunder resound together, shaking the eight directions; they shatter mountains and surge fiercely straight to the Celestial Granary. The Thunder Lord drives his forces, while the Jade Maidens wield the firm Qi of the astral patterns. Today I summon you all: hasten together to the Imperial Realm, where the Heavenly Emperor dwells.

The Heavenly Emperor issues his command, which answers to the Celestial Granary above. In accord with changing things, meet each moment; let signs of verification reach all eight directions. Thunder rolls through the highest heavens and rumbles into the distant depths. Kunzi subdues the left and rouses the spirits of astral thunder, unleashing the full might of thunder. The Chief Thunder General and the Directing Thunder General appear; ten thousand rays of thunderlight blaze as baleful energy surges everywhere. Thunder roars, lightning races; destroy evil influences, slay ghosts and demons, and cut down monstrous spirits. Wherever my command reaches, Heaven and Earth become solemn and pure.

Axiang, spirit of thunder, quickly open the road to the springs below. Set the thunder chariot in motion and let its thunder resound mightily. Send down abundant sweet rain and swiftly relieve lands parched by drought. The divine generals issue forth from the Kan Gate in the north; thunder shakes the four quarters. Mulang Taiyi, a divine general of the Daoist Thunder Ministry, swiftly raises the thunder. Thunder and fire erupt at once, striking the mountains without delay; their might is resplendent, shaking Heaven and Earth. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

After the Taiqing Joining Hand Seal (a thunder ritual performed with a hand seal), the Marshal Mulang Taiyi must erupt into action at once. Thunderfire bursts forth swiftly and strikes the mountains, its awesome force shaking Heaven and Earth. Act at once, in accordance with the statutes!

Rain-Driving Incantation

With the Taiqing Joining Hand Seal, I follow the myriad chapters of the Jade Laws. Bright spirits join forces to assist, so that the Great Dao may flourish forever. Snow crosses the Northern Sea, and rain descends in all directions. The Five Thunders fall swiftly and must not linger in the abyss. Act at once, in accordance with the statutes!

Incantation for the Five Thunders’ Generative Cycle

The Thunder Lord of the Celestial Capital rides the clouds and sets the winds in motion. The Azure Thunder carries Red Qi upward to the highest reaches of the sky; the Red Thunder carries Yellow Qi, turning the thunderous energy back toward the center; the Yellow Thunder carries White Qi, passing through and settling the Nine Palaces, the directional system that symbolizes the order of Heaven and Earth; the White Thunder carries Black Qi downward to Yuanfeng, the realm of the underworld; the Black Thunder carries Azure Qi and turns the thunderous energy back toward the East.

Incantation for the Five Thunders’ Transformation

The Five Thunder Envoys manifest as many true spirits. Now I become one with you. The Most High personally transmitted the formula and seal, enabling me to bring forth another form beyond my own—that is, to summon the divine generals and unite them with myself.

Incantation for Summoning the Envoys

Five Thunder Envoys, destroy evil spirits and punish wrongdoing. Wherever your divine light shines, all ghosts are subdued. I shake the flowing bell, a ritual implement for summoning spirits, and summon you swiftly; thunderfire surges here. Hong ji zha li—Four-Eyed Old Ugly, the name or appearance-title of a divine general. Strike the thunder and set its drums beating, bringing forth another form beyond my own.

Incantation for Summoning the Envoys

Five Thunder Envoys, destroy evil spirits and punish wrongdoing. Wherever your divine light shines, all ghosts are subdued. I shake the flowing bell and summon you swiftly; thunderfire surges here. Hong ji zha li, Four-Eyed Old Ugly. Strike the thunder and beat its drums, making them resound in all directions. Descend swiftly to the ritual altar and do not disobey the command.

Incantation for Empowering the Talisman

Five Emperors of Thunder, Four Sages of Wind, the Sun, Moon, stars, and constellations—the Three Luminaries and celestial bodies—the Two Dragons of Dongge, a specialized name in the source referring to spirits or ritual forms in thunder rites—the True Emperor of the Primordial Origin, and the cloud qi of the Nine Darknesses: all of you, obey my command. I am the True Master, acting under the Jade Emperor’s decree. Do not delay. Iron-Faced General, you possess the power to lash dragons; flowing flames circle your body. Let the dispatched envoy come to my aid. Act at once, in accordance with the statutes!

By Heaven’s mandate, I come into the human world in the form of a king of demons to rid it of every kind of calamity on Heaven’s behalf. I stand a thousand zhang tall, with a square-set mouth, copper teeth, iron claws, and lightning flashing across my body. Thunder leads the way before me, while cauldrons of boiling water follow behind. Thunder and lightning strike in an instant, surging straight toward the Celestial Dipper. Plants are scorched, trees torn down, mountain peaks split, rocks shattered, and even the Yellow River seems to overturn. My eyes blaze, casting light across Heaven and Earth; when I grow angry, the seas boil and the mountains collapse. I behead demons and devils, devour evildoers, and root out the violent and arrogant. I raise up and protect the loyal and upright, while striking down all wickedness and calamity. I can clear the skies, or bring rain in an instant; the thunder and lightning of the Five Directions rise at the command of my talisman. I command the spirits and ghosts, and none dare resist. The demons, specters, and evil spirits perish at once. By urgent command, in accordance with the statutes!

Sheling Spirit Incantation

The celestial radiance above is like jade, with Taiyi, a revered Daoist deity, hidden within it. The Fire Master, the Earl of Wind, and the venerable White-Haired Elder with four eyes each fulfill their duties. The Lord of Flame guards the ice, while the deity who commands fire seizes the flames and sends forth their light. Why is the rain command blocked? Why does the wind command come so often? Divine power appears like moonlight, and the Golden Immortal sets out under orders. Water and fire move together; Lord Guan bears a boat upon his back. The Three Officials, deities who govern Heaven, Earth, and Water, examine the way and open it, while the Five Emperors swiftly sweep away the darkness. The Most High issues a command of aid; the Dragon God soars, and sweet rain descends. By urgent command, in accordance with the statutes!

Sheling Prayer for Rain Incantation

Great Worthy Who Conquers Heaven, Taiyi Primordial Lady, a revered Daoist deity, the Master of Rain, the Earl of Wind, and the divine officials who keep the registers: swiftly command the Six Jia and Six Ding, spirit generals summoned to serve, and all the mighty celestial spirits. Drive away the venomous Dragon God, and summon the divine officials of every direction to come and obey. Let the Five Emperors swiftly sweep away the darkness. The Most High issues a command of aid; the Dragon God soars, and sweet rain descends. By urgent command, in accordance with the statutes!

Sheling Prayer for Rain Incantation

Great Worthy Who Conquers Heaven, Taiyi Primordial Lady, the Master of Rain, the Earl of Wind, and the divine officials who keep the registers: swiftly command the Six Jia and Six Ding and all the mighty celestial spirits. Drive away the venomous Dragon God, and summon the gathered deities to the ritual altar to obey. Let the mountains collapse and the seas surge, until the seas run dry and the trees wither. Wherever my talismanic command reaches, which spirit would dare disobey? By urgent command, in accordance with the statutes!

The divine person acts under orders to command the spirits; the Six Jia and Six Ding await the signal. The Taiyi celestial soldiers swiftly bring the power of the spirits to bear, while the divine officials who govern the registers and the span of life move like flashes of lightning and bursts of thunder. By urgent command, in accordance with the statutes!

With a command, thunder shakes the heavens. The Great White Tiger (a mighty Daoist divine general) roars and surges forward; its long howl summons the wind. It bares its fangs and claws, and exhales clouds. I now command you as the first to be sent forth among the Arrow Gods. Shoot at a mountain, and it collapses; shoot at water, and it dries up; shoot at fire, and the flames rise; shoot at stone, and it is pierced through; shoot at a tree, and it falls; shoot at livestock, and they die; shoot at a person, and they die; shoot at a ghost, and it is destroyed; shoot at a house, and it collapses, its tiled roof shattered. Even temples and monasteries fall into ruin when struck by it. After countless millennia, even the sea may become mulberry fields.

Sword-Bearing Great Fiend (a baleful divine general who wields a sword as his command), I order you to make it change its form and slay all things without turning aside. Third Fiend, the Vermilion Bird (the divine beast representing the south), I order you to send it in the appointed direction to deal with disputes, lawsuits, and such matters. Thunderfire and the pestilential Qi, follow my guidance and fly swiftly. Fourth Fiend, the Official Talisman (a baleful spirit symbolizing government documents and litigation), I order you to go in the appointed direction and unleash thunder at once. Near or far, what could possibly dare to resist where the Official Talisman arrives? Thunderfire and lightning, act immediately in accordance with the command. As urgently as the statutes decree.

Incantation for Driving Back Fiends

I command the Three Platforms and Kui-Gang (officials of the Northern Dipper and their associated divine generals), the qilin and phoenix, the Official Talisman Envoy, and the Sword God: at the sound of this incantation, be destroyed. Vermilion Bird and White Tiger, at the sound of this incantation, retreat. Today I walk the Yu Steps (a Daoist ritual step used by masters to tread the astral pattern), and the Way of Heaven becomes auspicious and smooth. Whoever blocks my path will surely die; whoever defies me will surely perish. Evil sorcerers and petty people will suffer calamity, while upright believers and gentlemen will see their family fortunes restored. Qian, Yuan, Heng, Zhen (the words of the Qian hexagram in the Classic of Changes, expressing vigor, fulfillment, and steadfastness in what is right): may auspiciousness descend everywhere. Thunder and lightning conceal their radiance; the four Arrow Gods lie in hiding. As urgently as the statutes decree.

Incantation for Summoning the Earth Altar

Om, li, chi, she (mantric syllables used as a command to summon and direct). Three Officials of the Great Origin (revered deities who govern the three domains of Heaven, Earth, and Water), Five Sacred Peaks and rivers, the Nine Provinces’ Nine Qi (primordial energy spread throughout the Nine Provinces), numinous powers of earth and wood: I now summon you. Descend swiftly. As urgently as the statutes decree.

Another Incantation

I command water and fire to follow the ritual steps from the Zi position to the Wu position. Bring darkness and brightness, Yin and Yang, into union with the Three Lights of the sun, moon, and stars. Luo and Ji Qi Bo (astrological terms in Daoist star lore, referring to Rahu, Ketu, Qi, and Bo), the celestial Qi of Po Jun (associated with the Northern Dipper’s Po Jun star and the primordial Qi of Heaven), numinous powers of earth and wood: I now summon you. Descend swiftly. As urgently as the statutes decree.

I command the Water and Fire Deities to tread the Dipper pattern, following specific steps to summon divine power. Let Yin and Yang shift through hidden darkness, and let the Three Luminaries—the sun, moon, and stars—merge. The star deities Rahu, Ketu, Qi-Bo, Po Jun, and Tiangang, together with the Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions and all the stars, shall lend their aid. Command the Lü Kui Envoy to depart swiftly from the Xun direction, the southeast. Bring down a great thunderclap and lightning strike; destroy evil forces and calamities. Hasten, in accordance with the law!

Incantation for Summoning Wang Lingguan

Wang Lingguan, whose divine might shines forth, wears golden armor; the Yellow-Turban Strongman holds an iron whip. Clad in a red robe and green boots, with ribbons streaming in the wind and eyes like a tiger’s, he wears a dragon cord around his waist. By command of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing), he pursues and captures evil spirits. Bind them swiftly and bring them before me. If they refuse to obey, I shall order them cut to pieces, inch by inch, until they are like dust. Hasten, in accordance with the law!

Another version

Qian, Yuan, Heng, Li, Zhen—the words of the Qian hexagram in the Book of Changes—assist me in capturing demons. I respectfully summon the mighty General Huoluo; appear swiftly in your true form. Whoever dares defy this command, I shall send a flying dispatch to report it to Shangqing, the celestial realm where the supreme Daoist deities dwell. Hasten, in accordance with the law!

Incantation for Summoning General Chen

The Northern Emperor proclaims this command in person, shouting to summon the Four On-Duty Generals. Quickly summon the Northern Pole General; ride the wind and drive fire down into the human world. Unite with the numinous covenant of Original Truth, joining mortals and sages as one. Rise boldly in awe-inspiring power; destroy demonic obstacles and cut down dark, evil forces. Personally transmit the command of the Great Dao; whoever disobeys…

Incantation for Summoning General Chen

The Northern Emperor proclaims this command in person, shouting to summon the Four On-Duty Generals. Quickly summon the Northern Pole General; ride the wind and drive fire down into the human world. Unite with the numinous covenant of Original Truth, joining mortals and sages as one. Rise boldly in awe-inspiring power; destroy demonic obstacles and cut down dark, evil forces. Personally transmit the command of the Great Dao; punish those who disobey with thunder and lightning. Hasten, in accordance with the law!

Incantation for Summoning the Two Generals of Fengdu

Heaven and earth, sun, moon, and stars: I summon the divine generals of Fengdu, the Daoist underworld. Che Zi, Xia Kui, and Wang Jing, come as well. They wield golden hammers and iron staffs at will, sparing neither gods nor ghosts and overlooking no demons, monsters, or spirits. At the sound of my command, seize them and make the evil spirit possessing its host immediately declare its name. Whoever dares defy me, behead them and make the truth plain. Hasten, in accordance with the law!

Incantation for Summoning the Five Thunders

The Jade Emperor reveals his true form and commands the thunder chariot to set out. Heaven’s thunder roars and shakes the world; earth’s thunder bursts forth with force; human thunder resounds; ghost thunder… Ziwei receives the command, and the Jade Emperor reveals his true form. Hasten, in accordance with the law!

Chaos Method Incantation

I am a divine officer of the Golden Palace of Primordial Yang, transformed from a mass of primordial Qi born at the beginning of chaos. As Heaven and Earth turn and the cosmos revolve, the Primordial Ancestor saves and protects me, summoning the star deities. The Iron Master brandishes his golden sword, sweeping away demons and evil spirits. He commands thunder and lightning, making their power resound through the Great Clarity Heaven. Whoever arrives even one step late will have his body destroyed first. Quickly, quickly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

With hair unbound, I tread the Dipper steps and search out baleful Qi. I touch the sword’s tip to flame and refine the true script. The Venerable Lord Lao sets Heaven and Earth spinning. The Primordial Ancestor saves and protects me, summoning the star deities. The Iron Master brandishes his golden sword, sweeping away demons and evil spirits. He commands thunder and lightning, making their power resound through the Great Clarity Heaven. Whoever arrives even one step late will have his body destroyed first. Quickly, quickly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

With hair unbound, I tread the Dipper steps and search out baleful Qi. I touch the sword’s tip to flame and refine the true script. The Venerable Lord Lao teaches me the method of chaos, enabling me to command the star deities and the Six Ding spirits, Daoist protective generals. Recite this in one breath seven times, and Heaven and Earth will grow dark. At the third watch, at the third quarter, summon the Thunder Deity. The key secret for summoning thunder is mysterious and profound, known to few. Cook porridge with poria to refine and nourish the star deities, always keeping a little strength in reserve to summon the Thunder Deity. In an instant, all eight quarters of an hour are as though filled with fire at your command. When the spirit talisman and the subtle workings of the method align, one can become a celestial divine being. Quickly, quickly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

This is the essence of Heaven and Earth, the vital energy of Yin-Yang. As Heaven and Earth turn, the star deities are summoned and dispatched. The Eleven Luminaries, eleven star deities, govern affairs together with the Celestial Emperor. Vast and boundless chaos: from it, a mass of primordial Qi first divided. Thus Heaven was opened and Earth formed; ghosts and monsters were subdued, evil spirits driven away, all things brought into being, and the myriad numinous beings nurtured. Once the command of chaos is issued, all the gods must obey. Quickly, quickly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for the Chaos Command Talisman

I act on behalf of the Most High Lord Lao. The Most High Lord Lao is a Heavenly Worthy above the Nine Heavens, with the Thirty-Two Heavens as his crown and the Thirty-Two Heavens as his body. I enact the command of chaos, and all the gods must obey. Quickly, quickly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for the Chaos Command Talisman

I act on behalf of the Most High Lord Lao, wielding the Great Method of Chaos to govern the sun, moon, and stars. All the sages obey my summons, and the thousand perfected ones follow the ritual methods of the altar. Before the mountains, rivers, and Five Sacred Peaks had yet taken shape, the Mysterious Origin Lord Lao already existed. I carry out the Primordial Ancestor’s command: I behead ghosts, cut down evil, and destroy demons. Whoever disobeys my command will have his head severed and his body destroyed, left with nowhere to turn. When I pray for rain for the state, the rain must fall swiftly; when I behead ghosts for the people, they must be captured swiftly as well. If a Thunder Deity defies the command, he will be punished by being sent to the underworld to serve as a Yin soldier. Quickly, quickly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Commanding and Sending Forth:

The emerald river ripples with autumn waves, clear and deep. A thousand-catty iron axe feels weightless in the hand. The willows by the river bend beneath the wind, yet even holding Chang’e would cause no disturbance. Light as dust in the air when light, heavy as a thousand-catty iron when heavy. White as snow in the heavens when white, red as an ape’s blood when red. The Weaver Girl’s fourth brother sinks beneath the earth, plunged in darkness; Gou Lou Jili (a celestial configuration or divine name) veils the moon. “Ascending Monk Attains New Color Beneath the Night Moon”; “Great Simplicity, Primordial Beginning, Water-Fire Cavern” (terms in the incantation whose precise meanings are unclear). Kunlun reaches completion through water and fire, filling the mountains and rivers; at this moment, even Heaven and Earth dare not speak.

Command Heaven, Earth, clouds, and thunder. When the incantation is complete, the numinous talisman summons the Nine Capitals, where Daoist spirits dwell. Whoever masters the art of commanding Heaven can command the Nine Sovereign Lords of the Southern Bureau, deities who govern the affairs of the Celestial Court. Cloud dragons surge and coil, carrying out the command to direct the Five Thunders. Fengyi, the river god, beats and stirs the waters, swallowing and chewing the Nine Dragons. Thunder rolls across Heaven and Earth; the sun and moon shift, and mountains are made to move. Lightning flashes, thunder cracks; great rocks split apart, springs burst forth, and mountains and seas shake and overturn. Waters roar, dragons cry, and stones resound; mountains collapse and rocks split, while even the local land deity is struck down. If the City God defies the command, he is beheaded on the main road. Heaven and Earth turn upside down three thousand times. Hasten and obey the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Refining the Body:

The primal Qi of Heaven and Earth brings forth life; Yin breath and the Yang spirit unite. Primal Qi descends from above, and the two Qi of Yin and Yang meet and rise in a surge. What descends from above sounds below, like a thunderclap. The Three-Five Thunder Gods and the General of Slaughter move at the command. Thunder’s power extends everywhere; Yuan, Heng, Li, and Zhen—the four auspicious virtues of the Classic of Changes. Hasten and obey the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Transforming the Spirit:

The Celestial Worthy of Original Beginning divides the One Primordial Qi into true spirits and pours them into your body, causing me to transform into my true form. Thunder’s power extends everywhere; Yuan, Heng, Li, and Zhen. Hasten and obey the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Transforming the Spirit:

The Celestial Worthy of Original Beginning divides the One Primordial Qi into true spirits and pours them into your body, causing me to transform into my true form. Riding the wind and harnessing primordial Qi, another body appears beyond my own. My transformed body takes the form of Jingxiao and becomes the Perfected One of Baohua. Divine beasts guard the four directions, while the stars shine down from above. Thunder gods go forth at the command to destroy demons. Hasten and obey the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Opening the Chart of the Five Tribulations: Only the title of this section is given; its contents are not present.

The Longhan era opened the cosmic pattern of Heaven and Earth, and all things came into being in accord with nature. The Chiming age ushered in a new cycle of destiny, as the Way of purity and stillness spread throughout the Nine Heavens. The Shanghuang revealed numinous clarity and subtly responded to the source of Heaven and Earth. In the age of Yankang, clarity and brightness unfolded, and the myriad spirits ascended to the realm of Great Mystery. As the calamity-cycle of Kaihuang came to an end, all forms of primordial Qi returned to the immortal Way. The radiance of the Cinnabar Spirit illuminated the dawn, while flowing golden light subdued demons and evil influences. Haoling turned back to deliver living beings; Danlin rode the swift wind. Qingling gathered all perfected beings under its command and received its mandate in the Divine Empyrean. Yuanling governed primordial Qi, and wondrous, mysterious energy filled the realm of empty stillness. The Five Spirits dispelled demonic obstacles, and flowing fire condensed into radiant flames. The ritual practitioner calls upon the deities to obey the command and act swiftly.

Edict Talisman Incantation of Jingxiao

Jingxiao, the lofty realm of Heaven, issues its edict, and the Fulu summon the Thunder Deities. The Monthly General, a divine commander assigned to serve each month, conveys the summons and hastens here through the clouds. The command spreads through the Three Realms and swiftly reaches Xuncheng, a direction or divine domain associated with the spirits of wind and thunder. Xuwei, Mengsu, Yaozong, Yaoping, Zheshi, Mizhao, and the other deities all respond to the command. The ritual practitioner calls upon the deities to obey the command and act swiftly.

Thunder Incantation of Jingxiao

Jingxiao governs the central pole, commands primordial Qi, and joins with the immortals and perfected beings to ascend in flight. Treading the astral steps and pacing the Dipper, the practitioner moves above wind and clouds; the Azure Youth receives the command to open the passage to Heaven. Numinous light shines through the hidden divine realms, turning back into radiance and ascending to Taiwei, the celestial realm where the star officials dwell. The Five Thunders are summoned to descend swiftly in divine power and respond to Heaven and Earth’s hidden workings.

Incantation for Summoning the Direct Talisman Officer of Jingxiao

The flying talisman speeds forth to assist the divine command of the Nine Heavens. The deity patrols the heavens, riding the clouds and summoning the wind. Ordered to carry a message, the deity receives the command of the Lord on High. Summoned to command the Thunder, you act in accordance with its regulations and numinous power. Diying rises and swiftly descends within the Three Realms. The ritual practitioner calls upon the deities to obey the command and act swiftly.

Incantation for Summoning the Direct Talisman Officer of Jingxiao

The flying talisman speeds forth to assist the divine command of the Nine Heavens. The deity patrols the heavens, riding the clouds and summoning the wind. Ordered to carry a message, the deity receives the command of the Lord on High. Summoned to command the Thunder, you act in accordance with its regulations and numinous power. Diying rises and swiftly descends within the Three Realms. The ritual practitioner calls upon the deities to obey the command and act swiftly.

Incantation of the Monthly General

Heaven and Earth are tranquil and clear; the energies of Yin and Yang meet and unite. Hear my summons and descend at once. General appointed to serve this month, come immediately before the ritual altar. The ritual practitioner calls upon the deities to obey the command and act swiftly.

Incantation of Jingxiao’s Astral Qi

Sit upright and guard the position of the Celestial Dipper—the direction indicated by the handle of the Big Dipper—as it points toward the four quarters. In spring, dwell in the Zhen position (east); in summer, occupy the Fire direction (south); in autumn, approach the Dui position (west); in winter, remain in the Zi direction (north). The Ancestral Qi, the primal vital energy, gives rise to the four quarters, while the assisting Qi follows the Celestial Dipper’s movement. As the Big Dipper turns with the seasons, primal Qi also circles around Kui and Gang, the stars of the Dipper. Facing the direction indicated by the Celestial Dipper, draw in Qi that belongs to Yin; with your back to that direction, draw in Qi that belongs to Yang. The days of Jia, Geng, Ding, and Gui are suitable for choosing a time to perform the method. At the winter and summer solstices, draw in the Qi of Lian Gang. To draw in Qi, sit facing the corresponding direction.

Visualize black and red appearing before your eyes. The two currents of Qi surge upward and meet, then descend from Heaven and join with your own true light, the inner radiance. Receive them with the crown of your head and let the Qi penetrate into the hidden depths. Feel the Qi strike the crown, as though it were being scorched by fire and scalded by boiling water. The crown bone seems to open of its own accord, allowing Qi to enter and leave; guard this opening. Do not block or hinder it. Only then can you behold the powers above and become their master. Celestial Dipper Qi has six colors and is divided into Yin and Yang. It can be used to seal talismans and settle the breath, and to drive away ghosts, baleful influences, and Gang Qi. It can protect the body and nourish the life force, as well as protect a pregnancy and strengthen Gang Qi. Yang Qi governs Yin Qi, and Yin Qi governs Yang Qi. Only one who can gather these currents of Qi may be called a Dharma King.

Golden Light Edict Mantra

The Jade Emperor, the sovereign of Heaven revered in Daoism, issues his edict, and the Perfected Ones carry out its commands and perform their arts. Above the nine heavens, clouds of five-colored auspiciousness surge forth; golden light interweaves, illuminating Heaven and Earth in all four directions. Drive out demons and evil, destroy malign spirits, and subdue the myriad numinous beings. The gate of the Xun direction, the southeast portal, bursts open at once, crushing evil spirits with a thunderous crash. The Three Realms heed the command, and the Nine Offices of the underworld know of it as well. Emperors Yuan, Heng, and Zhen, swiftly reveal your true forms.

Deity Summoning Mantra

I command my body; I command my spirit. I am the Lord of the Masters and Ministers of Jade Void, the divine general of the Jade Void Palace, who commands the hundred thousand troops of the Mysterious Heavens. The Great Rainbow and the Lion come amid thunder; the Heavenly Pass and the Earth’s Axis guard and surround the dark clouds. The Eight Baleful Ones and the Six Ding, divine generals by name, cast their fire bells and patrol the Three Realms below, capturing demons and spirits. If anyone dares to arrive late, first destroy his body and spirit. Swiftly obey this command.

On the left is the Sun, the Lord of the Masters and Ministers of Jade Void… This divine general commands the hundred thousand troops of the Mysterious Heavens. The Great Rainbow and the Lion come amid thunder; the Heavenly Pass and the Earth’s Axis guard and surround the dark clouds. The Eight Baleful Ones and the Six Ding cast their fire bells and patrol the Three Realms below, capturing demons and spirits. If anyone dares to arrive late, first destroy his body and spirit. Swiftly obey this command.

On the left is the Lord of the Sun; on the right, the Lord of the Moon. Before me is thunder; behind me, wind and clouds. Obey my command and follow my orders. Shake Heaven and Earth; let the twelve generals each take their places in ceremonial array, and swiftly descend with your numinous power. Hasten and obey the ordinance.

The Taishang Sandong Shenzhou, fascicle nine, ends.

The Taishang Sandong Shenzhou, fascicle ten

Spells for praying for blessings, averting calamity, summoning, and dispatching divine generals

Spell for Summoning General Liu

Great General of Heavenly Thunder, you excel at subduing evil and are wondrously efficacious. Seize spirits and monsters; pursue and capture demons and malign beings. When the Supreme Emperor descends, I now summon you: come at once before the hall. Hasten and obey the ordinance.

Spell for Summoning General Li

Great General of Earthly Thunder, you possess countless transformations, can divide your form and work the transformations of creation, rescue those in danger, and dispel misfortune. Obey my command and unleash a mighty peal of thunder. Hasten and obey the ordinance.

Spell for Summoning General Zhou

Great General of Central Thunder, you move like lightning sweeping swiftly through the sky and arrive like the wind. The thunder awl flashes; the fire command flies aloft; clouds and Qi surge in its wake. When you hear my summons, assist me in carrying out the ritual. Hasten and obey the ordinance.

Spell for Summoning General Zhou

Great General of Central Thunder, you move like lightning sweeping swiftly through the sky and arrive like the wind. The thunder awl flashes; the fire command flies aloft; clouds and Qi surge in its wake. When you hear my summons, assist me in carrying out the ritual. Hasten and obey the ordinance.

Spell for Summoning General Song

Great General of Water Thunder, you travel through the sky and arrive riding the clouds. At the Jade Clarity Supreme Ultimate—the highest realm of the Daoist Qingwei tradition—metal and iron lead the way. Accept my command and come bearing the golden slips and jade writings. Hasten and obey the ordinance.

Spell for Summoning General Zhu

Great General of Human Thunder, your silver teeth gleam and your eyes shine brightly. Ride a dragon at full speed and command the directions and boundaries of the celestial realm. Assist me in carrying out the ritual, and protect the cultivation and gathering of power in the human world. Hasten and obey the ordinance.

General Summoning and Command Spell

This passage consists of esoteric syllables, and the surviving text also contains marks for missing characters, so it cannot be translated word for word into ordinary language. As a whole, the spell is used to summon all the generals and issue the chief command.

Spell for Commanding the Generals

When the Wind Earl and Thunder Host, divine generals who command the wind and thunder, roar, the winds and clouds change. A single shout shakes the seas and mountains; flying flames race like baleful stars. Thunder crashes, and Zhou Lie, Xin Hanchen, and the other thunder department generals unleash the force of the lightning. The divine incantation also recites syllables such as “Na zhuan a na mo, hong □ wu li zha,” then commands the spell to be carried out swiftly.

When the Wind Earl and Thunder Host roar, the winds and clouds change; a single shout shakes the seas and mountains, and flying flames race like baleful stars. Thunder crashes, and Zhou Lie, Xin Hanchen, and the other divine generals unleash the force of the lightning. Then they recite spell sounds such as “Na zhuan a na mo, hong □ wu li zha, ji ji feng Mo ye, Mo luo nan suo ye suo he,” commanding the divine generals to act swiftly, turn the power of thunder, and draw in baleful forces.

Another spell says: Lightning flashes forth, and thunderfire blazes fiercely over the celestial court. Commands are sent throughout the Three Realms, mobilizing the Six Ding—the six divine generals of Daoism—to carry out punishment. The Five Thunders sweep through together like flashes of lightning, leaving evil spirits nowhere to hide and no place to linger. Act swiftly in accordance with the law.

Demon-Subduing Spell

The Great Thunder Duke of the Capital Heaven, who commands the thunder department, shakes the four quarters with his might; thunderclaps resound through the void. Armed hosts abound, and baleful forces guard Heaven and Earth. The thunder generals Jie Shi and Fei Chao Shi wield their power, while lightning strikes down the gathered evils. The iron-faced divine general seizes demons; the wolf-toothed divine general devours pestilence. The mighty divine general sets mountains in motion, and heavenly power sweeps away the black wind. As the Black Heaven Thunder method shakes the world, every trace of the myriad ghosts vanishes. The command conveys the celestial court’s edict; blazing flames drive out evil energies and disperse them within the Purple Cavern. Those who refuse to obey will receive no leniency under the law. From the Kui and Gang star spirits of the Dipper down to the Nine Springs, all must heed the command. The Great Thunder Fire of the Capital Heaven subdues evil spirits and transforms them into a pure breeze. Act swiftly in accordance with the law.

Summoning-and-Commanding Spell

Fiery lightning fiercely subdues evil spirits, and the Fire Lord of the South moves at the command. Soaring flames and thunderous power shake the eight directions. The true talisman, invested with spiritual power, takes form, and the divine presence appears swiftly. Act swiftly in accordance with the law.

Evil-Spirit-Subduing Spell

Heaven displays its signs, and Earth reveals its forms. Towers and pavilions are conjured, and prison generals are summoned. The gates of the prison are set in place; an iron bed appears, along with a thousand-catty lock and a ten-thousand-catty staff. The divine generals Pang Ling, Liu, and Tong are commanded to seize evil spirits and imprison them, then question and deal with them according to the severity of their offenses. Act swiftly in accordance with the law.

Talisman-Commanding Spell

Fierce and baleful Qi rises into the sky, and the might of Heaven is revealed within it. Heaven shows mercy and pardons the young and innocent, while cutting down and pursuing the traces of demons and evil spirits. The Thunder Gods of the Five Directions display their majestic power. Poisonous dragons and fierce beasts, flashes of lightning and Thunder Gods, celestial troops and mighty warriors, and ferocious Fire Gods clash with one another. Rain and hail fall together; thunderbolts come with the wind. The messengers of the Nine Heavens wield halberds and spears, driving the celestial elephants down together from above to suppress and shatter demons and evil spirits. Mighty flames blaze the way before them. Act swiftly in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Swallowing a Thunder Talisman

Thunder God of Heavenly Fire, Thunder God of Earthly Fire, Thunder God of Yin Fire, Thunder God of Yang Fire, Thunder God of the Central Earth: I beseech the Thunder Gods of the Five Directions to send down their thunderous might, search out and remove the evil, foul Qi in the stomach and intestines, and seize the evil Jing.

Incantation for Swallowing a Thunder Talisman

Thunder God of Heavenly Fire, Thunder God of Earthly Fire, Thunder God of Yin Fire, Thunder God of Yang Fire, Thunder God of the Central Earth: I beseech the Thunder Gods of the Five Directions to send down their thunderous might, clear away the evil, foul Qi in the stomach and intestines, and seize the evil Jing. Evil Jing, depart at once; let the sick person recover peace. This is carried out under the command of the Emperor Lord, without mercy or leniency. Act swiftly in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Seizing Evil Spirits

Thunder roars, and thunderbolts shake the earth; thunderfire bursts forth, and ghosts and spirits are struck with terror and perish. Evil Jing is destroyed, and demons vanish. The Six Jia and Six Ding (protective divine generals in Daoism), celestial troops and messengers, Thunderfire Generals, the Wind Earl and Rain Master, the Thunder Duke and Lightning Mother—all display their power together, sealing the way above against the wind and below against the water. Every fierce and evil creature is cut down by a force like blades of wind. Act swiftly in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation to the Lightning Mother

Namo (an expression of reverence and taking refuge) … [the following is a phonetic transcription of the incantation]. The incantation repeatedly recites sounds such as “ma li zhi xi,” and concludes with “Namo sanman duo mo duo nan, om ma li jie mang suo he.” These characters mainly record the sounds of the incantation and are difficult to translate word by word into ordinary language.

Incantation to the Yin Wood General

The Mansion of Divine Heaven (the celestial court where the thunder deities dwell) is where thunder gathers. It governs the transformations of all things and commands Yin-Yang. The Great Master of Supreme Mystery and Radiant Whiteness sends down light and brings rain; the Master of the Highest Clarity raises his might and nourishes the earth. Han Bo commands thunder and lightning, while Lord Yuan raises clouds and mist. The Messenger governs water, and divine intent subdues stubborn illness. The Immortal Xie raises flames, and the Wood Officer opens the gates. There are also General Guarding the Chariot, the Five Elders and Youths, the Six Jia Generals, and the Six Ding Jade Maidens.

The Thunder Deity displays his might, and thunder crashes like a great axe striking down. Heaven appointed Emperor Xi as the ancestor of thunder. Commands resound across the boundless realms, and thunder shakes Heaven and Earth. Blue Qi rises; red Qi brings scorching heat; white Qi brings frost; black Qi gathers into snow. Yellow Qi at the center descends with the four seasons. The lands south of Mount Taihua are under my command. Above is the Vermilion Bird, below the Black Tortoise; to the left is the Azure Dragon, to the right the White Tiger. I wear the thunder seal and drive the thunder drum, commanding them to act swiftly, as Shaoyang drums and dances. Haste, haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Cursing Jujubes to Treat Illness

Draw in the Qi of the sun and moon; the sun consumes blood and Qi. Yin and Yang are cleft apart, and Heaven and Earth seem to collapse. The Black Tortoise arrives at once, with the Azure Dragon on the left and the White Tiger on the right. I wear the thunder seal and drive the thunder drum, commanding them to act swiftly, as Shaoyang drums and dances. Haste, haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Cursing Jujubes to Treat Illness

Draw in the Qi of the sun and moon; the sun consumes blood and Qi. Yin and Yang are cleft apart, and Heaven and Earth seem to collapse. Haste, haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Primordial Unity Incantation

Clear, still, numinous, and bright: within the heart, visualize the fire of Bing and Ding. On the right, contemplate the Lord of the Southern Dipper; on the left, contemplate the seven stars of the Northern Dipper. I can bring all things back to the Qi of Primordial Unity and cause all things in Heaven and Earth to flourish. Reciting this incantation once can treat every kind of illness. Haste, haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Cursing Water to Treat Throat Ailments

Heaven moves while Earth remains still; the light of the sun and moon shines through. The Most High Lord Lao is here. Haste, haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Thunder-Summoning Incantation

Heavenly thunder rumbles. Mighty Thunder Officers and True Lords, hear this command and answer the summons; descend swiftly and display your divine power. Raise clouds and mist, and hasten at once to the altar. Lead the five commanders to patrol and search the mountains and rivers. Seize and bind all manner of spirits, monsters, and ghosts, and bring them here to report. All shall be carried out swiftly in accordance with the Emperor of Heaven’s command.

Seal-Descending Incantation

The primordial ancestral Qi (the source energy before Heaven and Earth were separated), which existed before Heaven and Earth were formed, can let the dead return to death and the living attain life, granting the efficacious power of longevity. It raises clouds and exhales mist, swiftly arriving before the ritual altar. It commands the five divine generals, searches among the mountains and rivers for all manner of spirits and ghosts, captures and binds them, and brings them here to await judgment. All is carried out at once in accordance with the commands of the Celestial Emperor.

Seal-Setting Incantation

The primordial ancestral Qi, which existed before Heaven and Earth were formed, can let the dead return to death and the living attain life; the power of longevity lies here. The Jade Emperor’s heart teachings and decrees compel ghosts and spirits to retreat. Carry them out swiftly, and do not defy the laws of Heaven.

Thunder-Raising Incantation

By command of the Azure Radiance Emperor, a revered Daoist deity, the true Qi and primordial Jing—the source essence—provide the power. Yin radiance shines through the caverns; wisdom reaches far, and an aura of benevolence and harmony appears in a drifting haze. The two Qi of Yin and Yang unite and form a numinous embryo, which then returns to the Yellow Court and sinks into the realm of the netherworld. Its light is vast and wondrous, its numinous beauty filling the eight directions and seas. The Eastern Florescence’s precious book illuminates the nine levels of Heaven. Summon the Dragon Spirits to bear water and raise thunder and lightning; wind and thunder surge mightily as the essences of water and fire clash. The constellations of the four directions gather with the Qi of the Five Phases, and all six directions of Heaven and Earth descend together. Recite the formula of Golden Light and mobilize the divine generals of the six Yellow and Red camps. The Heaven-Crossing Mighty Spirit, the Flowing-Gold Fire Bell, and other divine generals, together with the host of Giant Poison and the Nine Uglies, draw in primordial Qi and contain numinous light. Let the Qi of the Three Realms gather and unite with the hundred spirits. The constellations Jiao, Fang, Ji, Bi, Kui, and the rest await their orders; all the gods must carry out together the commands conveyed by the jade talisman. Recite the formula of Golden Light and mobilize the divine generals of the six Yellow and Red camps. The Heaven-Crossing Mighty Spirit, the Flowing-Gold Fire Bell, and other divine generals, together with the host of Giant Poison and the Nine Uglies, draw in primordial Qi and contain numinous light. Let the Qi of the Three Realms gather and unite with the hundred spirits. The constellations Jiao, Fang, Ji, Bi, Kui, and the rest await their orders; the jade talisman issues its command, golden metal and fire clash, and thunder roars. Carry it out swiftly, and do not defy the laws of Heaven.

General Incantation of Thunder

The Central Suppressing Star, the stellar deity who dwells at the center and guards the five directions, takes primordial astral essence as its foundation. Eight dragons gather, and Yin radiance fills the expanse. A high immortal bestows a purple mandate, and a crimson phoenix spreads its white wings. Divine power brings forth the myriad things, and I share its traces. The Six Poisons, Eight Spirits, Tianyi, Taiyi, and the other divine hosts respond to the summons above and below, meeting in the east and west. The deities of the Green-Wave Sea and the South Sea, bearing halberds and spears, answer together. A great deity sits enthroned in the divine palace, named Xuanyi. Zhongshan revolves, and the spirits of the Dipper’s astral stride and the Piao star are summoned together. Its might shakes the eight directions, and hosts of soldiers surge forth. It assists Heaven in carrying out punishment, and also rewards the immortals and perfected beings and records their celestial offices. It governs the registers of those whose lives are to be transcended, and commands the constellations Ji and Yi. Primordial essence flies forth, bringing thunder and lightning crashing down. Whoever dares defy the command will be destroyed by Heaven’s axe. Carry it out swiftly, and do not defy the laws of Heaven.

Incantation for the Western Perfected to Command Thunder

The seven White Gods who attend the Western Perfected One (the Western True God) reveal magnificent radiance and the power of Metal De. The Elder of Radiant Spirits descends, sounding the words of the spell. The divine might is stern and lethal, bringing down punishment. The Moon’s Essence (the essence of Great Yin) shines clear and bright, illuminating the four directions and shaking the heavens with thunder and lightning. Whoever dares defy the command will be destroyed by the heavenly axe. Hasten and obey the statutes!

Spell for Sending the Thunder of the Western Perfected One

The seven White Gods who attend the Western Perfected One (the Western True God) reveal magnificent radiance and the power of Metal De. The Elder of Radiant Spirits descends, sounding the words of the spell; divine might, stern and lethal, brings down punishment. The Moon’s Essence shines bright, its light reaching through the four directions. Its radiance rises among the clouds, directing the Qi of the spirits. Within the palace are seven divine generals, sounding mighty incantations; Helouli bears the Fulu (talismans and registers) and wields the tally. The sun shines high, burning demons and wicked beings and cutting down rebels. Ten thousand ranks of divine troops, bearing golden hammers and with bronze heads and iron brows, assist the fierce generals of the Thunder Bureau. They beat the heavenly drum and set the thunder in motion, shattering ghosts and demons and erasing your ghostly traces. The Western Spirit issues a purple edict, and the Jade Emperor bestows a precious proclamation; the spirits swiftly manifest with the breath, and their true might shines forth. Quickly display your power and strike down your foes with force. This is the command of the Jade Clarity Emperor, conveyed by the divine messengers of wind and fire. Hasten and obey the statutes!

Spell for Commanding Thunder

The vital essence and spirits of Heaven are transferred and summoned to act under command. Summon the spirits of the four lunar lodges—Well, Ghost, Willow, and Star—and all the assembled gods. Under command, come swiftly. Hasten and obey the statutes!

Spell for Gathering the Clouds

Nian nian, hong hong, Dark Heavenly Gods! Set Heaven and Earth spinning; summon the spirits of the four lunar lodges—Well, Ghost, Willow, and Star—and all the assembled gods. Under command, come swiftly. Hasten and obey the statutes!

Spell for Gathering the Clouds

Nian nian, hong hong, Dark Heavenly Gods! Set Heaven and Earth spinning, and extinguish the light of the sun and moon. The baleful forces of Rahu and the Earth Lodge rise up. With incantatory sounds such as “an wu” and “zha,” summon the forces of darkness that fill the sky; descend swiftly.

Spell for Summoning the Dragon

Messengers of thunder and fire, lead a million azure dragons. Let thunder shake the heavens and lightning roar; enter the talisman swiftly. Hasten and obey the statutes!

Spell for Stirring the Waters

Sea Gods of the Celestial Origin, Cangbo, and the Tiger Mother, bring down flowing Yang Qi and calamities, and set in motion the forces of Wood, Metal, Fire, and Earth. The Rain Master and Wind Earl ride the clouds and drive thunder and fire. Under command, startle the realm of Jade Clarity; flying dragons arrive in accordance with the number nine-five. Hasten and obey the statutes!

Spell for the Thunder Lord’s Strikes

The Celestial Thunder Marshal, who governs the thunderbolts of the heavens, summons the clouds and sets the winds in motion. The Azure Thunder carries white Qi and is intoned, “Om gou di luo na.” Thunder’s power courses through and guards the Nine Palaces, the nine directions or palace positions. The Vermilion Thunder carries black Qi and is intoned, “Dao di li na”; it rises upward to the highest heavens. The White Thunder carries red Qi, and cloud and wind move together. It is intoned, “Yun feng ju na,” and reaches downward to the Dark Feng, the land of the netherworld. The Black Thunder carries yellow Qi and is intoned, “Han su lu na,” harmonizing in opposition with the primordial Qi of the Taiji. The Yellow Thunder carries azure Qi and is intoned, “Tan jia qing na.” It spreads throughout the void and fills the fiery realm that extends across the whole cosmos, manifesting a blazing, awe-inspiring power.

The Thunder Deity unites with the divine spirits and connects with primordial Qi. Swiftly summon the constellations Jiao, Ji, Dou, Zhen, Zhang, and Yi, along with the other star officials. Which divine spirit will not submit? Which demon will not obey? Those who defy me must die; those who obey me will surely prosper. Northern Spirit Hei Li and the Nine Ugly Purple Youths, generals commanded in thunder rituals, along with the Wind Earl and Rain Master, all come to drive the thunder and summon the wind. Wherever the thunder-fire reaches, every trace of the myriad ghosts is wiped away. Urgently! Those who defy me must die; those who obey me will surely prosper. Northern Spirit Hei Li and the Nine Ugly Purple Youths, the Wind Earl and Rain Master, drive the thunder and summon the wind. Wherever the thunder-fire reaches, every trace of the myriad ghosts is wiped away. Urgently, urgently, in accordance with the statutes! This Daoist command formula declares that the order must be carried out at once.

Incantation of the Celestial Emperor

The Great Emperor of Heaven, a revered deity of the celestial realm, is the Supreme Lord of the South Pole and the progenitor of fiery power, transformed from the vital essence of Gou Chen, a celestial star deity. He has a red head, a black face, eight heads, and a serpentine body. Black Qi issues from his mouth and coils around Mount Kunlun. He governs the transformations of all things and can also subdue the Thunder Deities.

Above, he reaches the Nine Heavens and commands the sun, moon, and stars. In the middle, he rules the Five Sacred Peaks, the City Gods who protect walled cities, and their divine power. Below, he connects with the rivers and seas and the twelve gates of the netherworld’s springs. The nine levels of the Northern Feng underworld, its waters and lands, and both the world of the living and the realm of the dead all fall under his authority.

Should divine spirits resist, they will be destroyed; should demons resist, they will be annihilated. Wherever his command reaches, no one dares disobey. If anyone dares to defy it, a thunderclap will punish them, shattering their heads and reducing them to dust. Urgently, urgently, by the power of the Celestial Emperor’s “ka □ pili she” [incantatory syllables and character as written in the original].

Incantation for Commanding the Thunder Deities

Amid the primordial chaos of the celestial realm, the spiritual power of the divine incantation manifests. Its utterance summons the wind, accompanied by the roar of thunder and lightning and flashes that shake the heavens. Divine generals, thunder gods, and yakshas (protective spirits) appear one after another. The spell repeatedly calls the spirits by name, then summons the Lord of Thunder, the gods of thunder and lightning, the Earl of Wind, the Weaver Girl, and other deities, commanding them to rush forth and display their power.

The incantation also contains many mysterious strings of syllables used to summon and command the spirits. At the end, it declares that the Jade Emperor, a revered Daoist deity, has issued his decree and that the Celestial Emperor must act as commanded, swiftly and without delay. It closes with “Urgently, urgently, in accordance with the statutes,” signaling that the command must be obeyed at once.

Spell for Concealing the Sunlight.

In the Darkening Spell, the practitioner calls upon darkness to descend and shroud Heaven and Earth: the sky grows dark, the land grows dark, and even the Yellow River turns black. Mountains and rivers stretching for ten thousand miles are covered by darkness and black winds. Clouds, thunder, rain, and lightning rise in turn, and the sky deepens to black. Black dragons, black winds, and thunderclouds intertwine as rain sweeps across the vast sky, and the Great Dark Heaven deity is also summoned. The phrase “Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands” at the end of the spell is a set expression in Daoist talismanic incantations, urging the deities to act promptly as ordered. “Youth of Taiwei” and “Luo Tusu” are the names of deities invoked in the spell.

Spell of the Rain Lord

The spell invokes deities including the Five Emperors’ Thunder Lords, the Four Sages’ Wind Masters, and the stars of the Three Terraces, directing Heaven and Earth to turn and summoning clouds, thunder, wind, and rain. “Numinous Qi of the Ninefold Depths” refers to the spiritual energy of profound hidden places; “Boyuan” is the name of a deity or divine being mentioned in the spell. The practitioner identifies themself as a Wind Master and, by imperial command, summons the Five Thunders, setting clouds rushing and lightning flashing to aid the display of their power.

The spell then entreats the deities to sweep away demons and evil influences and subdue the forces of darkness, so that every ghost and demon touched by divine light is brought under control. It also urges thunder and lightning fire to descend at once. In its final section, the spell gives orders through sounds such as “sha, hong, ji, zha,” invokes divine names including “Four Eyes and Nine Uglies,” and commands thunder and lightning to sound like drums and arrive swiftly, without disobeying the order.

Spell for Commanding Thunder by the True King

The spell declares that the “True King within the Radiance” commands awe across the nine heavens, holding the “Three Su” in his hands and treading upon the “Nine Mysteries.” A golden tiger guards the sun’s orb, while flying dragons circle the heavens. The Yellow Spirit wields an axe, and the Green-Toothed deity carries a whip. The True King surveys the regions of the Five Dippers and harmonizes the stellar lodges of the Seven Primordial Stars.

The practitioner declares that they act by the command of the Supreme Emperor, have received the gift of prolonged life, and have been entrusted with talismans and authority. Wind and thunder arise together; thunderclaps rumble, day and night are made clear, and ghosts and demons can be investigated down to their origins. The True King commands the Thunder Bureau impartially. Acting under orders, the practitioner commands the thunder, so that the requested matter comes to pass as spoken. The spell ends by urging the command to be carried out: “Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.”

Spell for Ascending the Altar and Commanding the Five Thunders

The practitioner ascends the altar to perform the rite and calls upon the Thunder Lords of the four directions: the Thunder Lord of the Green Emperor unleashes thunderclaps, the Thunder Lord of the White Emperor commands the spirits, and the Thunder Lord of the Black Emperor opens the Gate of Heaven. The Fire Qi of the south then flows, enabling the practitioner’s ritual power to operate.

The Central Earth Star occupies the center and has twenty-six deities. Mobilize the true secret power and cut down demons, evil spirits, and monsters.

Secret Five Thunders Incantation

Om, Liu-gui-hu-bi-zhao-mo-ming; om, fu-luo-jun-ni-di-he. Demons and spirits, come swiftly and reveal your fierce divine power. Om, ni-ye-nao-luo-li-sa-he, fierce fiends; om, qi-tu □, sva-ha, sva-ha, flashing lightning; om, duo-he-nuo □, sva-ha, booming thunder; om, yun-li, sva-ha, sva-ha. Carry this out at once in accordance with the law and command.

Rain-Prayer Incantation

I summon the Water God of the Zhen lunar mansion. The Shen and Bi mansions bring wind and rain. The leopard god of the Ji mansion stirs clouds and wind; the dragon god of the Kang mansion dances with the horned dragon. The Five Stars set the Yang Court in motion, and the Long God dwells in the Kan position. Guan Bo turns the waterwheel, aided by the Ox Star and the maiden Axiang. The dog god of the Lou mansion is a spirit of the waters; the sheep god of the Gui mansion can quell fires. Let sweet rain fall within the Dantian, so that a single drop spreads across the shores. Make the drought demon vanish and reveal the might of the Five Thunder Gods. Carry this out at once in accordance with the law and command.

Great Transformation Incantation

My body is no mortal body; it is the true body of the Northern Emperor. My head is like dark clouds, and my hair like a host of troops in disarray. I reach upward to the realm of Yang and extend downward through the netherworld; the ten directions are filled with dense, baleful Qi. My brows are like centipedes, spreading poison. My nose is like an iron bell, its thunder shaking the vast sky. My ears are like fire bells, and my mouth like the Gate of Heaven. My left eye is the sun, shining upon the Heavenly Pass; my right eye is the moon, turning the axis of the earth. My upper lip is the Wind Master, able to uproot mountains and forests; my lower lip is the Rain Master, able to raise mists and bring down hail. My teeth are like pillars of swords, my chill like frost and snow; my ten fingers are hooks, shining with the light of Taiji. On my left cheek are the five demon chiefs of the directions; at my right flank are the awe-inspiring gods of the Five Sacred Peaks. My front feet command the Five Thunders to form their ranks; my rear feet command the Five Thunders to marshal their troops. I am Marshal Tianpeng, Great Commander, leading the demon troops of the Five Emperors. Whoever dares defy my command will be bound backward and swallowed up. Carry this out at once in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation for Summoning the Merit Officer

The numinous writ of Ziwei, the celestial realm of the Purple Tenuity, is conveyed and proclaimed by the Censor. The demon commanders of the Six Palaces listen to this numinous writ with reverence and swear an oath firm as mountains and seas. All spirits, gods, and ghosts must carry it out. Whoever dares to violate the statutes and laws shall be escorted to Beiyin, the Northern Underworld. Spirits and gods, rise into the sky and ride the clouds; descend swiftly to the altar. Lu. The demon commanders of the Six Palaces listen to the numinous writ with reverence and swear an oath firm as mountains and seas. All spirits, gods, and ghosts must carry it out. Whoever dares to violate the statutes and laws shall be escorted to Beiyin. Spirits and gods, rise into the sky and ride the clouds; descend swiftly to the altar. Lu sees Wang An: come at once, riding the clouds, receive my words, and report them to the Celestial Emperor. When your merit is complete, please recommend me and present a report to the Great Clarity, the Daoist realm of pure emptiness. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Summoning the Generals

The Northern Emperor issues the numinous writ; Tianpeng, the Daoist guardian general, obeys the command. Above, the Dipper stars wheel; below, the wind wheel turns. Black banners veil the sky, and weapons crisscross like clouds. The demon host of the Six Palaces exhales dense mists, while black Qi fills the air. The celestial troops rush to the scene, and ghost officials move in every direction. The Demon King stands with hand on sword, and the mountain gods of the Five Sacred Peaks come forth to receive him. Their imposing force shakes heaven and earth and topples mountains and forests; rivers, springs, seas, and rocks all sink into darkness. Those who violate the Black Statutes shall be escorted to Beiyin. Come here swiftly and heed my command. I reverently summon a certain general: descend at once. Whoever dares to violate the Black Statutes defies the Great Clarity. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Pursuit and Capture

I come from Mount Fengdu, the Daoist abode of the underworld. As my vermilion-sand hair strands stir, the Gate of Heaven opens. By command of the Northern Emperor, escort the person to Beiyin. Come swiftly and heed my command. I reverently summon a certain general: descend at once. Whoever dares to violate the Black Statutes defies the Great Clarity. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Pursuit and Capture

I come from Mount Fengdu. By command of the Northern Emperor, I seize and capture unrighteous ghosts and direct the troops and generals to command wind and thunder. The mighty general rides the clouds at full speed; demons who have broken the precepts are immediately seized and brought to justice. The Five Emperors’ Great Demon commands nine hundred million troops, calling the wind and summoning the rain, and wielding Yin thunder. Heaven, earth, and the human world will all be plunged into darkness, as a net of heaven and earth is cast from every side. I possess the Jiewei Xuandan, a ritual object or implement named in the original, which can record merit and transgression and destroy evil and calamity. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Summoning the Fierce Generals of Fengdu

The numinous writ of the Northern Emperor, divine ruler of the northern underworld, and the precious talisman of Tianpeng, a Daoist guardian general, can command wind and fire, topple mountains, and wither plants and trees. They can dry up rivers and extinguish raging flames, leaving Heaven and Earth dark and void. Yin Qi sinks down to the Nine Earths, and the divine generals rush to obey. I wield the commands of the Orthodox Law and lead the troops that subdue demons. The Big Dipper is above my head, and rivers and lakes lie beneath my feet. When ghosts and monsters hear my command, they are destroyed; evil spirits, too, are punished. The celestial generals arrive at once to drive out baleful forces for me. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances.

Incantation for Summoning Strongmen and Messengers

In the palace of the Northern Emperor, Tianpeng is the commander. Strongmen and messengers, come swiftly to the ritual altar. On receiving the command, act at once and drive out baleful forces for me. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances.

Incantation for Summoning Strongmen and Messengers

In the palace of the Northern Emperor, Tianpeng is the commander. Strongmen and messengers, come swiftly to the ritual altar. On receiving the command, act at once: let thunder roar and thunderbolts race, let the sky grow overcast and Heaven and Earth turn dark, and let the sun and moon dim. Let the myriad demons bow their heads and obey; when the talismanic command arrives, let them submit. Divine troops come in ranks, transforming into fierce and valiant forms. They devour demons, cut down evil, and destroy baleful beings. Should anyone dare to violate the Black Statutes, the laws of the underworld, let them be taken to Sangtong and confined in the Black Prison, never to escape. There, the long night is deep, and blades and swords bristle. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances.

Incantation for Summoning the Eight Flying Generals

Xi jian e, lou mang ni—incantatory syllables from the original. The Eight Majestic Generals are honored divine officers among the ghost clerks. They wear the Black Statutes and administer the mysterious laws. They command the troops and cut away the qi of demons and evil spirits. Above them is the Northern Yin Emperor of Fengdu, ruler of the northern underworld. They can ascend to Heaven and descend to Earth, flying through the vast sky; they bind ghost hordes and take evil souls into custody. At a call, they arrive at once; at a command, they obey. Hearing my righteous command, descend swiftly to the ritual altar. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances.

Incantation for Summoning the Various Talismanic Messengers of Fengdu

By the command of Tianpeng, the summoned spirits arrive as soon as they are called and obey whenever commanded. Hearing my righteous command, descend swiftly to the ritual altar. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances.

Incantation for Summoning the Various Talismanic Messengers of Fengdu

Tianpeng, the Daoist guardian deity, comes by command. The Censor, Zheng, solemnly issues the order. In accordance with the Great Mystery’s Black Statutes, capture and deal with the ghosts and spirits. The Fulu, talismans and registers bearing divine symbols, fly swiftly through the air, carrying orders straight to the clouds. Heaven and earth, the seas, forests, mountains and rivers, wind and rain all grow dark. The Nine Depths sink into gloom without a glimmer, and even the sun and moon lose their light. Envoy of the Black Talisman, General in Black Armor: hear my true command, reveal your true forms at once, heed my orders, and swiftly seize the wicked spirits. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and decrees!

Incantation for Summoning the Four Spirits of Jingyang Palace

Gou, Bi, Tian, and Sun, the four spirit generals of Jingyang Palace, are supremely sacred and numinous, unmatched in might, without shadow or form. They come with the wind, gathering vital essence and energy to reveal their true forms. They uphold the Black Statutes, aid all living beings, assist the Censor, and command the demon troops. Black banners and black tallies, emblems of the generals’ authority, advance in formation. The assembled demons bow their heads, fall silent, and submit. Heed my true command: at my first bow and summons, descend at once. I uphold the Black Statutes and govern all ghosts and spirits. What wicked being would refuse to submit? Whoever dares to defy me will have their body destroyed. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and decrees!

Incantation for Summoning the Two Divine Officers Ma and Song

By true command, I urgently summon the great gods to descend, seize the mountain spirits and other evil beings, and have them devoured and subdued. At a single thunderous roar, the gods shake heaven and earth. What wicked being would refuse to submit? Whoever dares to defy me will have their body destroyed. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and decrees!

Incantation for Summoning the Two Divine Officers Ma and Song

By true command, I urgently summon the great gods to descend, subdue the mountain spirits and other evil beings, and have them devoured and subdued. The Immovable Venerable Deity, steadfast in might and unmoved by external forces, manifests in multiple forms. The two gods appear, their supernatural powers boundless, filling heaven and earth. They tread through fire and travel on clouds, pass through mountains and enter valleys, leaving nothing unsearched. Hear my true command, swiftly seize the wicked spirits, and come at once to receive your orders and carry them out. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and decrees!

Incantation for Summoning the Two Perfected Lords Jiao and Zeng

The Northern Black Emperor, the principal deity of the north revered in Daoism, is the honored deity of Fengdu, the underworld in Daoist legend. He commands Fengdu and governs the constellations in the heavens. Grant me the Black Emperor’s command so that I may command the gathered demons. The two deities at his sides, the Gods of Prohibition and Punishment, subdue demons, monsters, and strange creatures, dispel calamities, and bind ghosts and spirits. They lift mountains in their hands and shatter demonic creatures and spirits. Their eyes are like gold, their faces like iron; clad in black armor, their forms are shadowy and mysterious, and they wear black garments. They are the Black-Armored Generals. They draw in the clouds, their presence vast and open; they breathe out black Qi, deep and dense. They lift mountains and shatter demonic creatures and spirits. Their eyes are like gold, their faces like iron; clad in black armor, their forms are shadowy and mysterious, and they wear black garments. They are the Black-Armored Generals. They draw in the clouds, their presence vast and open; they breathe out black Qi, deep and dense. The gathered demons all prostrate themselves and hide; ghosts and specters dare not show themselves. They cross mountains and enter fire, traversing Heaven and Earth; they enter water and ride the wind, capturing ghosts. I strike the ritual instrument, sounding a righteous tone like thunder, and the two divine generals descend at once. Whoever disobeys my command shall be as one who defies the Black Emperor’s decree from Xuandu, the celestial palace of Daoist legend. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Great Incantation for Summoning the Censor

The Northern Emperor’s Censor, a divine official under the Northern Emperor, is Fengdu’s great general, the commander of Xuanming, the deity of the underworld, and the honored god who commands the great demons. His face is the color of indigo; he holds the authority to command the gods. Acting under orders, he commands the destruction of demons, evil spirits, and wicked forces. The True Elders of the Five Spirits, honored deities in Daoism, bestow upon me the True Writ, a talismanic script invested with power. He holds the commands of the Nine Springs, the depths of the underworld, and carries the True Writ of Xuanyuan, the original Qi in Daoist thought. His long sword points across the Dipper constellation, and his gaze surveys Heaven and Earth. The river gods raise the waves; the sea gods churn the winds and tides. The sky is dark for ten thousand miles, and layer upon layer the earth grows black. The Marshal Who Commands the Armies is followed by nine serpents. He descends together with the divine general to assist me in wielding my power. Black. He holds the commands of the Nine Springs and carries the True Writ of Xuanyuan; his long sword points across the Dipper constellation, and his gaze surveys Heaven and Earth. The river gods raise the waves; the sea gods churn the winds and tides. The sky is dark for ten thousand miles, and layer upon layer the earth grows black. The Marshal Who Commands the Armies is followed by nine serpents. He descends together with the divine general to assist me in wielding my power. The sound of the Black Command thunders like a storm, swift and fierce in its might. He commands the gods and shakes the Gate of Heaven above. Hasten from Yujue, the dark and sealed place, and descend to my ritual altar. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Summoning the Generals and Soldiers of the Entire Altar

I serve by the command of the Celestial Emperor and carry out the decrees of Ziwei, the divine system of the North Star. The nine springs—the underworld below—are all governed by the Black Statutes. I patrol the Three Realms and subdue demons and monsters. I now summon the Four Duty Generals, who serve by day, by the hour, and in other appointed turns, to assemble at the ritual altar. The deities under the authority of the Three Officials, the Nine Offices, and the Four Departments, together with the Great Heavenly Strongmen, the punishment-enforcing divine troops, the Lords of Destiny, Records, Merit, and Slaughter, must all leave the underworld at once and hasten forth. Each is to fulfill their appointed duty and depart together from the Nine Shades, the realm of the dead. Let this command travel like wind and fire, and arrive swiftly at the ritual altar. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Spell for Summoning the Demon Kings of the Six Palaces

O Tianpeng, Tianpeng! You are foremost among the myriad gods and administer the Celestial Emperor’s code of laws. At once, issue orders to the Six Palaces. Let the demon kings of the Six Caverns swiftly emerge through the gate of the underworld, lead an army of a hundred thousand, wield their powers of transformation, ascend to heaven and descend into the earth, and hasten to the ritual altar.

Along the road to Changhe, the Gate of Heaven, black Qi fills the sky. The stars fall from heaven, and the rivers run dry. Mountains lie flat as whetstones; the pillars of heaven break, the earth’s veins grow clear, and the four quarters fall silent as black Qi surges upward. The sun and moon grow dim, and all beings in the world ascend to Taiqing, the Daoist realm of pure, empty heavens. Demons and monsters destroy themselves; ghosts perish of their own accord; evil beings dissolve, and malign spirits injure themselves. Wind sweeps them away, fire consumes them, and they turn into a boiling cauldron of broth. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Great Oath Spell of the Divine Command

I serve by Ziwei’s command and hold sole authority over this office. Fengdu, the underworld, extends upward to the Nine Heavens, downward to the Nine Springs, and across the Nine Provinces. All gods and spirits between heaven and earth, strange celestial stars and portents, demons that fly or walk, mountain sprites, ghosts and monsters, and every kind of baleful Qi—whether or not they are listed in the sacrificial registers, and whatever the severity of the harm they cause—if they dare defy the rightful command, shall be punished by the Censor, the divine official charged with carrying out penalties. The divine troops are ordered to mobilize swiftly and pursue and seize them throughout the eight directions.

All who hide in mountains and rivers, forests, caves, springs, or grottoes, and have come forth to harm the people, are to be arrested together. If strange gods in ancient temples, ancient Buddhas or perfected immortals, malevolent spirits clinging to bones in old tombs, mountain and stone spirits, or sprites of ancient trees dare to hide, the Censor shall lead the troops there in person to slay and capture them. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances!

Ritual Command Spell

All transformations and changes arise through the division of a single Qi (vital energy), the fundamental energy that Daoism says gives rise to all things. The One divides into Three, forming the Three Qi; the Three then divide into Five, becoming the Five Spirit Lords. Northern divine generals, act swiftly in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation for Issuing the Sacrificial Command

All transformations and changes arise through the division of a single Qi: the One divides into Three, forming the Three Qi; the Three then divide into Five, becoming the Five Spirit Lords. The Northern Great General and the mighty spirit Li Yisha, together with Marshal Tianpeng, a Daoist guardian general, command the multitudes of the Nine Yin. The Lord of the Nine Yin acts in accordance with the command, and the chiefs of the demons from the Six Caverns enter the Celestial Palace together. Within the palace, shadowy prisons connect in layer upon layer, with mountains of knives and pillars of swords, their spears and blades keen-edged; they crisscross in every direction, cold and dim. Quickly transform this place into a celestial prison and confine the wicked demons and evil things within it. Act at once in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation for Gathering the Spirits Back to the Palace

Marshal Wei Boxian, chief of the demons, hear my command and act at once. Divide your forms and send down your Qi; carry out my orders. Command countless soldiers and generals, with countless ghost officials accompanying you on either side. Summon wind and rain, and enter my ritual altar. Guard and follow the divine command; do not stray far. Heed my orders and instructions. By the decree of the Dark Elder of the Five Spirits, a revered Daoist deity, I command you to act immediately. Act at once in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation for Summoning the Fengdu Deity in Transformed Form

The Perfected One of the Northern Emperor, sovereign of the North, governs the laws of Fengdu, the underworld in Daoist belief. Divine might appears, and all things flourish in their proper measure. A canopy crowns his head, and his feet tread the Kui-Gang, the asterisms of the Northern Dipper and their ritual steps. The Six Jia spirits stand to his left, while the Six Ding spirits guard his right; the Azure Dragon Mengzhang stands to the left, the White Tiger Jianbing guards the right, the Vermilion Bird Lingguang stands before him, and the Black Tortoise Zhiming keeps watch behind. The Great Ugliness of the Nine Springs and the Demon King Zhou Wei uphold the law. Should anyone dare defy my decree, escort them to the Divine King who wields the awe-inspiring sword for judgment. Act at once in accordance with the law and command.

Purification Incantation

The Celestial Yuan spirit, the Old Man with Four Eyes, and the Eight Sha of the Celestial Dipper sweep away the Qi of demons and evil. At my gaze, even mountains collapse; with a spray of water, I reach across Heaven and Earth. A hundred kinds of evil spirits bow their heads and retreat; the host of demons is cut off, and every impurity is washed away, leaving mountains and seas clear and bright. The heavenly law of the Great Heaven Above has descended. Demons and spirits have nowhere to return and no path of escape. Act at once in accordance with the law and command.

Incantation for Treading the Dipper

I am the spirit of the Azure Emperor of the East, formed from the nine Qi (vital energies) of Primordial Unity. In harmony with Heaven and Earth, I bring forth and nurture the myriad things, assist the Three Terraces (three star officials in Heaven), and protect the Northern Dipper. I uphold the celestial signs and command a thousand troops. The stars Jiao, Kang, Di, and Fang lend their aid as I carry out my orders; the stars Wei and Ji are joined with me as one. I wear the Sun and Moon as my robe and the stars as my crown. From here I command the celestial troops and drive the wind chariot, thunder chariot, water chariot, and fire chariot. Thunder crashes, winds and clouds rise, and a thousand troops and generals guard me. From then on, all affairs between Heaven and Earth proceed smoothly, in accord with the Way of flourishing, benefit, and steadfast rectitude.

Incantation for Summoning Generals to Respond at Once

Moonlight, like a mirror, shines upon the water; people throughout Huaxia and the four quarters can all see it. For whatever I seek, Great Spirit of Vast Beneficence, please help me display my might. Marshal of Thunder, commander of troops and horses and master of the arts, appear at once in your true form. Hasten to obey; do not disobey the command.

Incantation to the Earth Spirits

The spirit of Eastern Peak is upright and discerning. Zhang and Xu, the two Thunder Envoys, appear at once in your true forms. Evil spirits are causing disorder and harming the people. Place them in cangues, seize and arrest them. Take them all, regardless of rank or kinship. Mountain sprites, one-legged ghosts, and spirits transformed from things of metal, wood, and stone, as well as heavenly demons, heterodox outsiders, and wicked gods absent from the orthodox sacrificial rites, must all be bound with heavy cangues and chains and brought before the ritual altar. Spirits of Eastern Peak, Supreme Lord Dongqing, and Zhang Xun and Xu Yuan, appear swiftly in your true forms. Hasten to obey; do not disobey the command.

The senior general of the Central Palace’s Earth Lodge has a tiger’s head. He specializes in cutting down demons and pestilence and guarding the Celestial Prison. He has received the command of the Celestial Emperor and must not delay. Hasten to obey; do not disobey the command.

Senior General Wudong has a blue-black face and eyes like gold. He commands dragons and tigers and leads ghost troops. He can overturn mountains and earth, send rocks flying and dust rising, and lay out iron nets, iron mesh, iron chains, and iron bells. Mountain sprites and spirits must not hide or escape. May the divine general go swiftly to seize them, bind them, and bring them here to be reported. Hasten to obey; do not disobey the command.

Incantation of Azure Spirit

The nine Qi of the deep blue essence are the divine spirit of Taihao, the ancient emperor of the East, and can cause all things to spring forth and grow. Lay out iron nets, iron mesh, iron chains, and iron bells, so that mountain sprites and spirits have nowhere to hide. May the divine general go to seize them, bind them, and bring them here to be reported. Hasten to obey; do not disobey the command.

The nine Qi (primordial energies) gather into a blue-green essence. This is the numinous Qi of Taihao, an ancient sovereign and deity of the East. It brings all things to life, and grasses and trees flourish together. The Emperor of Luminous Origin is charged with examining and summoning or dismissing spirits and deities. Yin and Chen correspond to the Dragon and Tiger; Mao and You symbolize Yin and Yang. Kui and Lou are constellations, while wolves and dogs symbolize their might. Bing and Ding are the fire deities.

Their divine power shines in its full splendor. The assembled gods are of one mind, their courage and inner organs in harmony; water and fire mingle, and tortoise and serpent unite as one. Three thousand officers and soldiers stand in disciplined, fearsome array, showing no mercy. They assist the deity who patrols and inspects as he travels, obeying the commands of the Grand Protector, a divine general. From the eastern blue-green peak of Daiyue (Mount Tai), they come to the altar of the Azure Court. You must obey my command: seize the violent ghosts who died untimely deaths and the demons causing mischief, and help my talismanic mandate bind and capture them. You fierce generals must respectfully carry out your orders. The slightest breach of the statutes and laws will bring your merits to nothing. Heaven’s laws are severe; do not defy or neglect them. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Summoning Grand Protector Wen

Wen Qiong, the formidable and illustrious Grand Protector Wen, is charged with purging evil influences. His hair is purple, his eyes golden; he wears a black robe and iron armor, with a blue-green face and yellow brows, and safeguards the Dao. When the divine general descends, Heaven and Earth grow dark. Three thousand officers and soldiers obey his commands, rewarding the good and punishing the wicked. He governs life and death, patrolling, inspecting, and discerning evil spirits. He carries a black staff and black banner, an iron axe and iron halberd. He opens the upright Qi of Yin and Chen, gathers the true essence of the Dragon and Tiger, wields the wondrous power of the Kui and Lou constellations, and commands the mighty spirits of wolves and dogs. The fire deities Bing and Ding rush to Kan, the position of Water, as black clouds surge. He captures demons and suppresses poisonous evils, and can even bring the dead back to life. The Sovereign Lord of the Eastern Peak commands the Grand Protector: carry out the orders without fail. Haste, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Om, jie di maha, da lian su tuo, pan tou jia duo yin, su tuo ji ti hong hong zha, sa e zhe mi mu, li li □ hong, □□ ha bi jin li maha chi sha she.

Incantation of Fierce Thunder

Om! Sujulu daili sa! Yiyin chipan zhuo shenmi hui! Hong! Duhe mo zhu qi biye! Nanu jia zhe qian he ming wei jie! Lu chengye mu gou wei! Huan ge ga jia □! Wei ti tuo ti! Wa shi da hu! Di huan qin hong sha you ban zha suoha she!

Qionghua Incantation

Om! Summon and bind! Lu chengye mu gou wei! Huan ge ga jia □! Wei ti tuo ti! Wa shi da hu! Di huan qin hong sha you ban zha suoha she!

Qionghua Incantation

Om! Summon Wenqiong! Great primordial purity, mysterious and balanced! Command the soldiers and generals to assist in the ritual, and the Three Primordial Ladies, Daoist deities. Om ma zhi ti! Zha hong ji ti! □□ lou ji! Li zha □□□! Seng jin zha duo nuo zha! Gu lu zha □□! Nan fou bi suoha!

Assist the spirits of infants, and gather the cloud-sealed jade registers—documents preserving treasured talismans and scriptures—and the cloud scrolls in jade cases, precious Daoist texts. Ascend to the celestial realm and descend into the underworld. Subdue and destroy pestilence spirits and wicked, lawless ghosts; tear out their marrow and pull out their entrails. Carry out Heaven’s clear command and eradicate calamities and misfortunes. Om! Hou zha duo zha! Fire Star, Golden Jia! Know and understand from the moment of birth; reveal your might and descend swiftly, come at once! Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Summoning the Generals of Fengdu

By the command of Fengdu, the Daoist underworld, all the gods must obey. Above, to the Nine Heavens; below, to the netherworld: officials, soldiers, and generals who receive this command must not delay. Those who defy or disobey it will be severely punished according to the law. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

The great general Mingling has four arms and three heads. His left assistant wears his hair loose and a skull upon his head; his face is indigo blue, and he commands the assembled soldiers and generals. They line up before and behind him, surging forward like flowing water. The chief officials of the Nine Hells each wield a spear and halberd; with a breath they can raise clouds and bring rain, and their fearsome presence terrifies ghosts and spirits. Their faces are indigo blue, and they command the assembled soldiers and generals; their ranks stream forward like water. The chief officials of the Nine Hells each wield spears and halberds, summoning clouds and rain with their breath, making ghosts and spirits wail in grief and terror.

By command, inspect, summon, and seize the evil ghosts without delay. By the talismanic decree of Fengdu, capture and take them into custody at once. I now perform this rite; be sure to uncover their traces and the reasons behind them. With talismans, summon the generals and troops, and first reward them with offerings. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Issuing the Command

To my left are the Lord of the Sun, the solar deity; to my right, the Lord of the Moon, the lunar deity. Thunder and lightning are before me, wind and clouds behind. They shake Heaven and Earth and rebuke the dragon spirits. Receiving my true Qi, the source energy spoken of in Daoism, the perfected adepts who have received registers and authorization to practice the rites, together with thirty thousand warriors and the generals of the Six Jia, assemble at my sides and rush to meet me from before and behind. The transformations of Yin-Yang and the creative workings of Heaven and Earth respond to the gestures of my hands. Summon at once your thousand chariots and ten thousand horsemen. Obey my restraints and carry out my commands. At a single order, ghosts and bandits are subdued with me. Act at once, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation of the Six Palace Demon Spirits

The Emperor of the Marked Dawn of Zhoujue; affairs are understood and the lofty halls are joined together. Their blazing power rises like smoke and clouds high in the sky; their radiance shines forth, brilliant as sunlight. Wucheng bears the divine blade, gazing down in stillness and swallowing Qinghe. Yanhe stands near the Cinnabar Well; the Cloud Gate towers above the mountain crags. The Seven Unorthodox Ones lead to a strange portal, while Lianwan spreads out into a demonic realm. The Six Heavens stretch across the northern road: this is where ghosts and spirits dwell.

Incantation of the Six Palace Demon Spirits

This incantation is composed of images of divine names, palaces, and the directions associated with ghosts and spirits. It depicts a realm inhabited by such beings, with towering Cloud Gates and Cinnabar Wells, roads to the north, and portals leading to strange places or demonic realms.

Incantation of the Eight Generals

Heaven and Earth, sun and moon, stars and constellations: I summon the spirits of Fengdu, the underworld. Come with the Qi; once summoned and drawn in, appear at once. Whether god or ghost, demon or essence, all must heed the call. The Eight Generals hear my command and immediately reveal their true forms.

Incantation for Gathering at the Fengdu Altar and Seizing

Om, jialoucha, diloucha, om, yicha, lulicha, jiabacha, fengleicha, huoleicha, qichicha, dayinluocha, wutu chi she. Jiliucha, diliucha, fengleicha, huoleicha, jiashucha, dashiluochacha, bilulei wuluntu chishe. Jiane, loumang.

This passage consists mainly of incantatory words transcribed by sound. It is used to summon and subdue ghosts and spirits; many of its phrases are mantra sounds and cannot be interpreted word for word as ordinary Chinese.

Grant me mighty authority. Hold the treasured sword before my chest, fierce as thunder. Let righteous energy join Heaven and Earth, and let my fame reach the celestial realm. The spirits on the sword’s blade swiftly reveal their power; ghosts and spirits all submit in reverence. You, holy Luomang, and the eight generals, display your divine powers; demons and evil forces dare not flee. First seize the Nightglow Ghost and escort it to the Four-Eyed Elder. Then execute the unrighteous spirit, leaving the evil of Kui and Gang nowhere to hide. By the decree of the Supreme Lord, I attach myself to the one summoned and declare my name. Hasten in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Summoning Marshal Sang

Tianpeng is mighty and martial, a valiant general under the Northern Emperor. I summon you to descend to the palace of Fengdu in the underworld, inspect the Six Prisons, and carry out orders as soon as you hear them. Sang Tong, hearing the summons, come at once to the ritual altar. The Skull-Headed Envoy, borne by wind and fire, hurry swiftly here; arrive at once upon command, and drive the tigers and dragons. Know all the prohibitions of the Great Emperor of Ziwei. If anyone dares not to come, escort them to Luofeng and imprison them forever in the dark prison, through countless kalpas without end. Hasten in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Oath Incantation of Fengdu

By the command of the Great Emperor of Ziwei, I alone uphold the Northern Emperor’s sacred text and govern below the Six Heavenly Palaces of Fengdu. Let the great demons of all six palaces come at my command. Tianpeng, guard me and join your strength to mine. The blades endure through countless kalpas; sword pillars rise tier upon tier. Copper serpents breathe fire, and iron hounds charge. Tortures of every kind follow one another without pause; inspection and interrogation have no end. Those who uphold the righteous commands shall be rewarded according to their merit, and their names reported to the Celestial Court, to be entered in the imperial palace’s registers. In accordance with my will, pursue and seize the souls at once. Hasten in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Incantation for Dispatching Generals

The Black Book of the Great Mystery is the talismanic command by which Tianpeng directs his generals. Let the fierce generals gather at the ritual altar and seize the evil shamans. Let the malevolent spirits run wild… At the command, pursue and seize the souls at once. Hasten in accordance with the statutes and commands!

The Great Black Book of the Mysterious Mystery is the master talisman commanded by Tianpeng, a Daoist guardian deity. Brave generals gather at the ritual altar to seize wicked sorcerers, troublesome ghosts, and vicious members of heterodox sects. The Arhats of the Three Caverns and the troops of the Five Divisions set out together, swiftly pursuing and subduing every evil spirit. Whoever dares to resist is slain with an iron battle-axe. The world is restored to clarity and peace, and evil creatures vanish. The Censor patrols the realm, while divine light surrounds and protects it. Those who violate the Black Laws are made to vanish, body and shadow alike. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Spell for Opening the Command Pouch

Tianpeng drives away the dark mist, and Mount Fengdu—the netherworld in Daoist tradition—appears at once. The six caverns shine with light, and the prisons of the netherworld open once more. The Great Demon stands firm as guardian. Hear my command and carry it out. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Spell for Opening the Heavenly Gate

I carry out Tianpeng’s decree and command Xuanwu, a Daoist guardian deity, to open the gate of the netherworld. Let the prison officers pause their interrogations and tortures for a time; let the Yin troops surround the four quarters and stand guard. The Demon King, enraged, grips his sword and guards the six caverns, subduing demons and monsters. Hear my proclamation of the decree: let the Heavenly Gate open toward Black Mountain. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Spell for Opening the Prison

The divine might of the Heavenly Prison is magnificent. The Spirit Lords of the Five Qi, deities who govern the Qi of the Five Phases (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water), command a million troops. The Demon King, enraged, grips his sword and guards the six caverns, subduing demons and monsters. Hear my proclamation of the decree: let the Heavenly Gate open toward Black Mountain. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Spell for Opening the Prison

The divine might of the Heavenly Prison is magnificent. The Spirit Lords of the Five Qi command a million troops and help me display my divine power. Patrol the eight directions; seize and capture them alive. I command the divine generals Jin Tou Na, Tie Tou Na, and the others: use the spell to keep them in place and make them obey. Seize all the targets together and deliver them to the prisons of the netherworld, where they shall never be reborn. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Spell for Preserving Life

Tianpeng, Tianpeng, Ninefold Mystery Killing Lad, a divine general serving under Tianpeng. He takes on the form of an ordinary person while retaining his fierce and mighty strength. He communicates with Heaven above and reaches the underworld below; he passes freely through fire, wind, water, and the netherworld. He also reaches the realms indicated by missing characters in the scripture, as well as the void. He goes everywhere, through the orthodox and the heterodox alike, and his transformations are without limit. He transforms into nine hundred million beings and gathers their souls, enabling life to arise. Several characters are missing from the scripture; the original names them in sequence as “□ Star” and so on. They shine with radiant light, ride dragons, bring great good fortune, and soar through the sky; auspicious light spreads in every direction and fills the four quarters. The assembled deities rise upward, and □ Star displays its divine powers. Enter the souls into the register of life and set them at rest; cultivate the Jing and Qi, let the breath flow freely, settle the Shen, and strengthen the body’s Four Great Elements—the earth, water, fire, and wind that constitute the human body. Act swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Spell for Summoning the Old Man with Four Eyes

Tianpeng, the divine general who commands celestial troops and dispels evil and subdues demons in Daoism, is the lord of the gods and possesses immense power. Even the four-eyed elders are under his command. His gaze surveys the four directions, seeing all; as he patrols the world, he swiftly seizes evil beings. Those who refuse to obey are escorted to Beifeng, the netherworld in the north. He comes and goes with the speed of wind, carrying out commands. May he descend swiftly and display his divine might. By urgent command, in accordance with the law.

Incantation for Summoning the Demon King

The Great Sage of the Nine Uglies, the red-haired Demon King, knows all things. As he patrols the world, he swiftly seizes evil beings; those who refuse to obey are escorted to Beifeng. He comes and goes with the speed of wind, carrying out commands. May he descend swiftly and display his divine might. By urgent command, in accordance with the law.

Incantation for Summoning the Demon King

Great Sage of the Nine Uglies, red-haired Demon King, make the assembled demons fear and submit, and the monsters hide themselves. You possess the six supernatural powers and can destroy fierce evils and calamities. Summoned in accordance with my incantation, descend at once to the ritual altar. By urgent command, in accordance with the law.

Incantation for Subduing Demons

By the command of the Northern Emperor, the deity who rules the north and governs the netherworld, I am charged exclusively with this office. Fengdu, the Daoist netherworld, is under my authority; I judge the demonic spirits. Gods and ghosts, obey my command: act with the speed of sparks from the stars. Rush here at once; when performing your arts, be swift as wind and thunder. Heed my summons and instructions. Whether ascending to heaven or descending to earth, climbing mountains or crossing waters, act according to my spoken commands. Go swiftly and return swiftly. By urgent command, in accordance with the law.

Incantation for Fighting Baleful Forces

Tianpeng is the exalted divine general between Heaven and Earth. He ascends to the Golden Palace, the dwelling of the Heavenly Emperor, and descends to Kunlun. The Nine Heavens and the Five Sacred Peaks are in his power; he also governs the primordial Qi contained in the Three Origins and Eight Seasonal Nodes, important dates in the Daoist calendar. He sets the celestial Dipper in motion, making demons and ghosts vanish without a trace. The King of the Celestial Dipper is mighty, like a hero ten thousand feet tall; the King of the Black Baleful Force can command tigers and dragons. They patrol the Eight Seas and extend their authority to the Six Palaces, the vast regions governed by the spirits, making great demons fear and submit as they ride forth in a stately procession with the Kui dragons, mythical beasts. Three hundred thousand divine troops come to guard the celestial court. Their baleful force, surging to the heavens, will forever put an end to evil and malevolent spirits. By urgent command, in accordance with the law.

Incantation for the Merit Officer

Tianpeng commands tigers and dragons, patrolling the Eight Seas and extending his authority to the Six Palaces. Great demons fear and submit; the Kui dragons draw up in orderly formation for the procession. Three hundred thousand divine troops come to guard the celestial court. Their baleful force, surging to the heavens, will forever put an end to evil and malevolent spirits. By urgent command, in accordance with the law.

The Celestial General Tianpeng gives the order: the meritorious officers and generals must arrive at once. Lu Jian and Wang An, come immediately! Quickly summon and pursue the local earth god, and come together to descend upon the ritual altar. Hear my command and come at once. You are under the command of the Celestial General Tianpeng; do not violate the laws of the Heavenly Court. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Incantation of the Mighty General Sang

Mighty skull-headed general, responsive and efficacious General Sangtong, come swiftly from the realm of the Nine Yin and descend upon the ritual altar like a shooting star. Go a thousand miles away to pursue and seize the soul of the deceased; capture the hun and po spirits as swiftly as the wind. The star Kui turns, thunderbolts surge, and the light of the Dipper stars darkens all around. When you hear my command, you must carry it out. Do not violate the laws of Fengdu, the judicial authority of the underworld, or the retribution for your offenses will never end. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

Incantations for Prayer and Spirit Summoning

Incantation for Raising Thunder

Thunder Lord, who governs all beneath heaven, summon thunder and set wind and rain rumbling. Blue thunder carries red Qi, piercing through and subduing the Nine Palaces; red thunder carries white Qi, rising upward to the vault of heaven; white thunder carries black Qi, descending to control Northern Feng, the northern underworld; black thunder carries yellow Qi, filling the mysterious realm of Taiji; yellow thunder carries blue Qi, spreading throughout the void. The entire cosmos is filled with blazing red winds. Thunder joins with the spirits and connects with the Great Dao.

The lunar mansions Jiao, Ji, Dou, Zhang, and Yi turn swiftly. Which spirit will not be subdued? Which demon will not obey? The generals Beiling, Heili, Jiuchou, and Zitong, along with the Wind Earl and the Rain Master, all heed the command, dispersing thunder and drawing in rainbows. When the divine talisman arrives, the myriad ghosts vanish without a trace. Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes!

General Incantation for Summoning Thunder

The Jade Clarity Heaven issues its command and summons the assembled spirits. The Highest Saints amid the thunder, the swift-flying divine beings; the fierce officers of the Five Thunders and the mighty spirits of the Han ministers; Thunder Lord He Chong and Lightning Mother Wen Ying; Wind Earl Dao Zhang and Rain Master He Qing, together with the Barbarian Thunder Envoy—all are commanded to come.

By command of the Jade Clarity (Yuqing), the heaven where the Daoist high deities reside, I summon and direct you gods. Holy Ones of the highest rank amid the thunder, swiftly call forth the gods and dispatch them. Fierce officers of the Five Thunders; mighty spirits of the Han; Lei Gong He Chong; the Mother of Lightning, Wen Ying; the Earl of Wind, Dao Zhang; and the Rain Master, He Qing—all await their orders.

The Eastern envoy of the savage thunder, Mo Ming; the Southern Lie Sha and torch-bearing god; the Western He Meng and spirit of the fire barricade; the Northern envoy and god of the black dog; and the Central envoy, Huang Hun E Hong—all act under command. Black flames surge and churn; at the order, black clouds billow up. The local shrine officials of the Nine Provinces spread fire wheels everywhere; flying generals lead the heavenly troops. Dense black clouds blot out the sky, as a million divine officers and soldiers gather.

Now, by Heaven’s mandate, swiftly subdue the evil spirits. Turn Heaven and Earth upside down; let thunder crash and lightning roar, from the Taiji (Supreme Ultimate) above to the underworld below. With divine light and lightning eyes, search them out carefully; behead them by the thousands and destroy their bodies by the tens of thousands. If they dare disobey, grind them to dust. This command must be carried out at once, in accordance with the law.

Thunder Talisman Incantation: Great Lei Gong, who commands all beneath Heaven, thunderclap…