《徐仙真录》Vol. 2

Bring stability to the family and state, and ensure smooth success. Have the name carved on a jade tablet and entered in the registers of the sovereign’s palace. Ride the swift wind, fan the light of the sun, and ascend into the vast heavens.

Enter and leave the realm of the dark and hidden; travel and feast throughout the ten directions. Five-colored clouds drift like a ceremonial canopy. Summon the spirits and command the wind gods. Command the myriad spirits to harmonize the upper realm and guard the Immortal Elders.

Strike the ritual drum twenty-four times

(The ritual drum is used in Daoist liturgies to summon spirits and open the ceremony. “Twenty-four times” refers to twenty-four drumbeats.)

Opening the Incense Burner

(A Daoist liturgical invocation performed after incense is burned, summoning the spirits.)

Supreme High Five-Spirit Old Lord, summon forth from within our bodies the Three and Five Merit Officers, the Merit Officers on the left and right, the Incense Officials and Messengers, the Incense Attendants—the Golden Youths—and the Jade Maidens who transmit words and scatter flowers, along with the Incense Officials of the Day, the Merit Officers and Messengers, and the True Spirits of the Three Qi. Hasten to ascend and present our memorial.

Investigate and summon the five great marshals Bian, Wei, Zhao, and Diao, together with the two marshals Yue and Xu, the Heavenly Strongmen and Mighty Warriors, and the divine officials on the left and right. I now ascend the altar to perform the rites. With reverence, I express my wishes and establish this altar to repay grace and pray for blessings. Every sincere intention has been fully set out in the written memorial. May this ritual cause the vital energy of the True and Righteous to flow into our bodies, and may the words in my memorial swiftly ascend to the Supreme Three Treasures Heavenly Lords.

The True Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Golden Palace, Illustrious in the Dao and Abundant in De, Manifesting numinous power, Universally Delivering Aid, Pure and Subtle, of the Grotto Mystery, Empty and Profound, Wonderfully Responsive, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, Exalted in Blessings and Great Grace;

The High Immortal of the Nine Heavens’ Jade Palace, Who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teachings, Manifesting numinous power and Broadly Delivering Aid, Lofty and Clear: hasten to transmit the memorial to the Supreme Three Treasures Heavenly Lords.

The True Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Golden Palace, Illustrious in the Dao and Abundant in De, Manifesting numinous power, Universally Delivering Aid, Pure and Subtle, of the Grotto Mystery, Empty and Profound, Wonderfully Responsive, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, Exalted in Blessings and Great Grace;

The True Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Jade Palace, Who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teachings, Manifesting numinous power and Broadly Delivering Aid, Lofty and Clear, Vastly Still and Profound, Wonderfully Responsive, Benevolent and Gracious, Aiding the State and Blessing the People, Bringing Abundant Blessings and Great Grace. The sacred ranks are above.

So-and-so, holding an authorized Daoist office, together with the altar officials and all present, sincerely submits this memorial:

The sacred ones of the Nine Heavens’ Golden Palace, whose sacred ranks are as listed above.

With reverence, we say: Goulong could govern the land, and Zhu could preside over grain; therefore shrines were established to sacrifice to the spirits of the land and grain. The Zhou valued fragrance, while the Shang valued music, using these to communicate with the virtue of the spirits. Must offerings to the spirits necessarily involve sacrificial animals and blood offerings? Even wild greens such as ping and fan may be presented to princes and dukes. When a sage cannot be understood by people, he is called a spirit; when a spirit leaves behind a name, he too enters the ranks of the sages. With reverence, we reflect…

The Perfected Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Golden Palace, Great Immortal Who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Manifesting Spiritually to Aid All, Pure and Subtle, Profound and Mysterious, Empty and Wondrous, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, Esteemed for Blessings and Great Grace; and the Perfected Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Jade Palace, Supreme Immortal Who Proclaims Transformation and Supports the Teachings, Manifesting with Numinosity to Aid All, Lofty and Brilliant, Vast and Tranquil, Profound and Clear, Wondrously Responsive, Humane and Benevolent, Assisting the State and Blessing the People, Exalted in Blessings and Great Grace.

The two Perfected Lords take uprightness as their De. They can move people through the blessings and misfortunes they bring. Their numinous power lies hidden deep within the earth, and the earth responds by revealing it; it manifests in the heavens, and the heavens answer in turn. Its mysteries are beyond measure. When they declare that the sky will clear, it clears; when they say rain will fall, rain descends, as though they alone held the power to shape Heaven and Earth. Their renown is illustrious, their grace far-reaching, and they seem to be right before us.

The two Perfected Lords take uprightness as their De. They can move people through the blessings and misfortunes they bring. Their numinous power lies hidden deep within the earth, and the earth responds by revealing it; it manifests in the heavens, and the heavens answer in turn, its mysteries beyond measure. When they declare that the sky will clear, it clears; when they say rain will fall, rain descends, as though they alone held the power to shape Heaven and Earth. Their renown is illustrious, their grace far-reaching, and they seem to be right before us. In the North Pole, they assist the True Lord of the Dipper, the revered deity of the Northern Dipper palace; in the East Florescence, they quietly cultivate the profound learning of Daoism. One with the Dao, they devote themselves to upholding the Way of the divine.

Their names are inscribed in the Golden Palace, the dwelling of the Celestial Emperor, where they have received investiture with titles of three or four characters. Their divine offices shine in the jeweled halls, worthy of the cultivation of three thousand meritorious deeds. Responding to the right moment and to the pleas of humankind, they vow to deliver all beings. Having received the grace of divine protection and nurture, how could we dare forget the rites for seeking blessings and dispelling calamity?

On this auspicious occasion, the Perfected Lords’ sacred procession arrives at the ritual precinct. At times they wear immortal adornments, their bearing solemn, with eight phoenixes singing as they follow behind; at times they don court robes, their appearance dignified, with a hundred mounted attendants welcoming them in front. Their immortal retinue and ceremonial guard line up in solemn array above and below, while spirit officials cluster around them on either side to protect and attend them. Though the rites by which we welcome the Perfected Lords are modest, we still beseech the deities to recognize our humble yet sincere intentions, as slight as celery. With the utmost reverence and earnestness, we perform the rite of bowing our heads twice and respectfully welcome the Perfected Lords’ descent.

Inviting the Sages

We respectfully make this invitation:

The Perfected Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Golden Palace, Great Immortal Who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Manifesting Spiritually to Aid All, Pure and Subtle, Profound and Mysterious, Empty and Wondrous, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, Esteemed for Blessings and Great Grace;

The Perfected Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Jade Palace, Supreme Immortal Who Proclaims Transformation and Supports the Teachings, Manifesting with Numinosity to Aid All, Lofty and Brilliant, Vast and Tranquil, Profound and Clear, Wondrously Responsive, Humane and Benevolent, Assisting the State and Blessing the People, Exalted in Blessings and Great Grace.

With utmost sincerity and earnestness, we perform the rite of bowing our heads twice and respectfully welcome the sacred arrival of the Perfected Lords.

Inviting the Sages

We respectfully make this invitation:

The Perfected Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Golden Palace, Great Immortal Who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Manifesting Spiritually to Aid All, Pure and Subtle, Profound and Mysterious, Empty and Wondrous, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, Esteemed for Blessings and Great Grace.

We reverently invite this holy immortal to descend to the ritual altar. You were invited before and graciously descended; now we ask you to return to the ranks of the immortals, where the assembled immortals sit in order.

The officiant presiding over the purification ritual reverently bows, offers incense, presents the first round of wine, and performs the scattering of flowers.

Your disciple, [name], together with the assembly, respectfully submits this petition:

We have heard that the Holy Lord was renowned for benevolence and righteousness, and descended from King Yan of Xu. Loyal, brave, upright, and steadfast, he inherited the noble rank of the state of Qi through generations. The Holy Lord’s renown for benevolence arose in Fujian, and his virtue and prestige spread throughout the land. His achievements were engraved on bronze vessels, and his deeds recorded in the histories.

The Holy Lord was once ordered to guard the lands south of the gorge and river, allowing local officials and people to live in peace as before. He then raised his banner at Aofeng and crushed the remnants of the bandits, restoring peace to the region so that all could share in the blessings of a prosperous age. How could the people ever forget the Holy Lord’s kindness? They cherish the memory of this worthy one through the sweet crabapple tree. He was ennobled in life and received offerings after death. He blessed the people and helped secure the state, and to this day his praises endure.

In former times, even the plants and trees seemed to reveal the Holy Lord’s efficacy; today, farmland is spared the ravages of floods. When a civilian boat struck a reef, the sound of a yellow banner came to summon rescue. When a neighboring house caught fire, the wind shifted, saving the homes from burning. In the Jiading era, locusts did not enter the territory; in the Baoqing era, drought did not bring disaster. After a red serpent appeared, heavy rain fell; when a divine dragon from the Nine Heavens appeared, thunder roared. Across a vast distance, no figure could be seen, yet at night a celestial lamp appeared. There was plainly no sound, yet in broad daylight one seemed to hear the music of flutes and strings.

The Holy Lord’s deeds have remained engraved on stone for a thousand years. His titles have been augmented through the generations and entered in golden registers. Scholars and common people come from a thousand miles away to take refuge in him, and worship him devoutly in every season. In upholding virtue, the Holy Lord values more than the fragrance of offerings; he will not partake of offerings made to those who are not their proper recipients, and especially esteems offerings that are clean and abundant. Through achievements, accumulated goodness, precepts, and purification, one may ascend to the ranks of the immortals only if one’s virtue accords with the will of Heaven. We respectfully make this offering.

Having received the emperor’s gracious command, we respectfully embraced the teachings of the Daoist tradition. He especially bestowed the names Golden Gate and Jade Gate, and granted the honored titles Great Immortal and Supreme Exalted One. The Dao is the Way we practice; De is the Virtue we follow. Advancing the teachings of the divine does not merely bring renown in the present or glory to individuals: it also honors the radiance of our forebears and renews the generations to come. The kin live in harmony, the teachings are well conducted, and the household gathers for joyful feasts. Above, we look up to the dignity of the Sacred Father and Sacred Mother; below, we recount the distinction of the Sacred Sons and Sacred Grandsons.

The teachings of the divine do not merely bring renown in the present or glory to individuals: they also honor the radiance of our forebears and renew the generations to come. The kin live in harmony, the teachings are well conducted, and the household gathers for joyful feasts. Above, we look up to the dignity of the Sacred Father and Sacred Mother; below, we recount the distinction of the Sacred Sons and Sacred Grandsons. The Sacred Maternal Uncle’s title is entered in the Purple Palace, the celestial administration; the Sacred Elder Brother receives offerings at his temple in Jinling. The Divine Empress presides over the registers recording births, while the Sacred Consort and the immortal [text unclear] stand among the ranks of the inner attendants. Some oversee the granting of blessings and increases in official emoluments; others serve as high ministers and officials. The Five Marshals hold exalted authority and are peerless in valor among the three armies. Skilled in both military strategy and literary arts, they take their places on the left and right.

The temple guards the Seven Min region, and its splendor and merit are without equal. It stands alongside the divine powers of the Five Sacred Peaks; who but the most holy could attain such distinction? Its achievements are outstanding, its fame resounding, and its beneficence extends to all. By the protection of the divine, we live in peace; we dare not forget the blessings we receive in our daily food and drink. Again and again, we bathe and burn incense, offering our devotions with reverence as though the divine were before us. We respectfully welcome the sacred procession and ask the divine to look kindly upon the sincerity of those making offerings. To carry out the Zhaijiao purification ritual with devotion, we have gathered Daoist priests and respectfully offer the auspicious “Empty-Sky Songs of the Azure Heavens”—hymns of praise to the gods and words of blessing sung in Daoist ritual.

We, your subjects, bow a hundred times and respectfully pray that the reigning emperor enjoy boundless longevity. May he protect his descendants like a parent, receive a thousand emoluments and a hundred blessings, rule as sovereign of all under Heaven, and ensure that the dynasty’s foundations endure in strength. We respectfully proclaim and present all the petitions.

Proclaiming the Petitions

In accordance with the petitions, their contents have now been read in full. We respectfully ask the immortals and perfected beings to look down with compassion. May the divine guard and protect us, repel calamities, and bring peace to all under Heaven; may they grant the sovereign a thousand emoluments and a hundred blessings, and preserve the dynasty’s foundations for ages to come. We respectfully proclaim and present all the petitions.

Proclaiming the Petitions

The preceding memorial has stated everything fully. We respectfully pray that the Immortals, in their compassion, look kindly upon us and condescend to inspect our petition. Their protection of the people from calamity and their defense against disaster merit solemn recognition in the rites of sacrifice; in gratitude for their achievements and reverence for their virtue, the divine Immortals should also be elevated in the celestial ranks. May they receive the edict from the Golden Palace of Heaven, and honorably attend the incense altar of the Jade Emperor.

May the Immortals understand deeply the art of breathing in and out the two Qi (the Yin and Yang Qi), and master the path of cultivation that proceeds from the Azure to the Mysterious. May the Seven Fluids (the bodily fluids described in cultivation) circulate freely, and may they grasp the mysteries of embracing Yellow and returning to Purple. In cultivating themselves, may they fulfill the virtue of improving themselves alone; in aiding the world, may they put into practice the merit of benefiting all. When sincerity is fully felt, communication follows; when something is earnestly sought, a response is granted.

The Immortals relieve the people’s suffering without need of Bian Que’s medical skill. In divining the Yin-Yang configurations of the land, they can silently impart the learning of Guo Pu, courtesy name Jingchun. May those who ask about marriage find harmony in their households; may those who pray for children see their descendants flourish. To those seeking official careers, may they counsel diligence and filial devotion. To those making their way in the world or earning a living through trade, may they teach that benevolence and righteousness are the foundation of profit. May farmers labor diligently in their fields and artisans refine their skills. May people from afar come gladly, and those nearby live in peace; may benevolence be held within and made manifest through practical action.

All who turn their hearts toward the Dao receive the blessing of the Immortals’ inspiration and guidance. From white-haired elders to young children, all depend upon their protection. Today we have established this ritual altar to repay their kindness and pray for blessings. We again offer fragrant incense and invite the Immortals to descend; we then perform the offering of wine and pray that their sacred presence come before the altar. We respectfully pray:

The True Lord of the Nine Heavens and Golden Palace, Bright in the Dao and Attained in De, Manifesting Spirit, Universally Relieving All, Pure and Subtle, Profound and Mysterious, Empty and Transcendent, Wonderfully Responsive, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, Exalted in Blessings and Vast in Grace,

descend from the Nine Heavens. We again offer pure wine and pray that your sacred presence arrive. We respectfully pray:

The True Lord of the Nine Heavens and Golden Palace, Bright in the Dao and Attained in De, Manifesting Spirit, Universally Relieving All, Pure and Subtle, Profound and Mysterious, Empty and Transcendent, Wonderfully Responsive, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, Exalted in Blessings and Vast in Grace;

and the True Lord of the Nine Heavens and Jade Palace, Proclaiming Transformation and Supporting the Teaching, Exalted Immortal, Illustrious in Spirit and Broad in Relief, Eminent, Vast, Serene, Transcendent, Subtle in Response, Benevolent and Kind, Assisting the State and Protecting the People, Abundant in Blessings and Vast in Grace.

May blessings and good fortune descend, so that all may long enjoy the abundance of the offerings. May the land of Hua remain peaceful and settled, and may the foundations of the imperial dynasty endure securely.

We respectfully bow, offer incense, and present the second round of wine. We raise the cups and scatter flowers.

I, the undersigned, together with the officials of the altar and others, now sincerely submit this petition and respectfully invite the sacred beings named above.

The heroic integrity recorded on the stele beside Luo Pond is said to endure through all ages, impossible to erase. Donghua Cave has stood for a thousand years; who today can carry on its true tradition? We honor this deity, who protects the land and has accumulated boundless merit. His appearance and bearing rival Guanghui, and his literary talent stands alongside Lord Liu. If he was not formed from the essence of the stars, then he must have been nurtured by the numinous beauty of mountains and rivers.

His deeds can be told in poems, songs, and rhapsodies, and deserve to be recorded again and again with due solemnity. Whenever people seek to know good or ill, fortune or misfortune, his guidance is never wrong. Even after asking once or twice, they still respectfully ask again a third time. He sees clearly the principles that connect the hidden and the manifest, and knows in advance the signs that misfortune and fortune depend on one another and change is approaching. His bearing is grave and dignified, commanding awe like hard frost and a blazing sun. His cultivation reaches high and inspires reverence, like the Northern Dipper and Mount Tai. His abundant De shines forth brilliantly, and his divine radiance gleams.

Today we establish this ritual altar to repay the deity’s grace and pray for blessings. We respectfully pray that the sun, moon, and stars move in harmony; that cold and heat, and the four seasons, arrive in due course; that the Five Grains yield abundant harvests and the people live in peace and raise their families; that all beings be spared calamity and illness; and that good fortune descend upon the state. May all that Heaven and Earth bring forth and sustain return to the Great Dao.

We bow respectfully, offer incense, set out the wine offerings, and perform the final presentation. We scatter flowers, recite the scripture, and read the petition. Then we proceed to the Seven Luminaries lamp rite, make our vows, and perform the Great Thanksgiving.

The officiant, [name], together with the altar officers, once more burns fragrant incense and makes offerings together. The sacred positions served are as stated above.

I have heard that Aofeng rises high and steep, as though one could reach out and pluck the stars from heaven; the Dragon’s Head stands lofty and majestic, sending down abundant rain and dew to nourish the human world. Since I have long received your gracious blessings, how may I repay them now? With reverence, I have laid out pure offerings, though I am ashamed to lack fine wine served in a jade vessel and golden sweet liquor. The fare of the immortals is no more than such celestial fruits as fire dates and intertwined pears.

Now the precious seal-script incense is nearly burned away, and the flame of the silver lamp has gone cold. The perfected immortals, wearing star crowns and feather robes, tread to the sound of the steps of emptiness and gradually depart for the Jade Palace. The mist-borne palanquins, cloud chariots, and retinue, too, are about to return to the Golden Gate. My heart clings to them and cannot bear their departure; I can only earnestly pray that the deities send down abundant blessings.

Offering the Ten Prayers

First, may body and mind be pure, tranquil, and at peace. Second, may innate nature and wisdom become perfect and radiant. Third, may the Dao be revered and De lofty. Fourth, may cultivation reach completion and its work be accomplished. Fifth, may the hun and po spirits be clear and upright. Sixth, may the demon kings protect and welcome me. Seventh, may the heavenly officials bestow blessings. Eighth, may the underworld authorities erase my name from their registers. Ninth, may I avoid falling into the suffering paths of the netherworld. Tenth, may I be reborn in a pure realm and attain long life.

Returning the Incense to the Burner

Incense officials and messengers, divine lords to the left and right, and all spirit officials who attend the incense: may the place where I have established this altar and performed the rites naturally bring forth auspicious treasures such as golden liquid, cinnabar, and jade-green mushrooms. May the myriad spirits and perfected beings gather before this incense burner to celebrate. May the immortal boys and jade maidens of the ten directions guide the incense smoke and convey the words of my earlier prayers above, swiftly delivering them before the Most Perfect, the Infinite Great Dao.

The revered deities to whom these prayers are addressed are: the Most Perfect, the Infinite Great Dao; the Great Immortal of the Bright Dao and Manifest Virtue at the Golden Gate of the Nine Heavens, the True Lord of Manifesting Efficacy, Universal Salvation, Pure Subtlety, Grotto Mystery, Soaring Emptiness, Wondrous Response, Compassionate Benevolence, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, and Honored Spirit, Vast Grace; and the Exalted Immortal Who Proclaims Transformation and Supports the Teachings at the Jade Gate of the Nine Heavens, of Luminous Efficacy, Broad Salvation, Lofty Clarity, Vast Stillness, Profound Tranquility, Wondrous Response, Benevolent Grace, and Assistance to the Dao.

We respectfully see off the True Lords of Vast Grace of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens and of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, deities venerated in Daoist worship. The purification ritual (Zhaijiao) has now ended. We gratefully receive the deities’ profound grace, sincerely bow in reverence, and respectfully send off the two True Lords. The cloud chariots of the immortals do not linger, and even cranes bearing them away cannot be held back. When a Jiao ceremony is held again in the future, we will once more respectfully invite them to attend.

Hymn of Farewell:

We respectfully see the deities off as they ride auspicious clouds of five colors and ascend through the nine heavens. Though they dwell far away in the celestial realm, incense fills the ritual sanctuary. Their wondrous, mysterious grace extends throughout Heaven and Earth; blessings and prosperity descend upon mountains and rivers. We envision the path traveled by the immortals as they soar freely to the Great Luo Heaven, the highest celestial realm in Daoism.

The sages’ sacred virtue has bequeathed the rites and liturgical teachings. Through the purification ritual, one may pray for long life and lasting blessings. In accordance with the jade register, we seek to extend people’s years; we submit a golden petition to the Heavenly Court, asking that life be granted. May names be removed from the registers of guilt in the Northern Office, which governs the records of the underworld, and the living be entered into the registers of Nanchang, one of the dwelling places of the immortals. May all who live in this world enjoy long lives, and may the assembled True Immortals bestow auspicious blessings.

We pray that the True Lords grant blessings and grace, so that all may draw upon the merit of good deeds and attain the True Way. May all who reverently honor and follow them receive their protection.

Dedication of Merit:

The Great Dao is boundless and without limit. Kindred companions on the Way follow one another like light and shadow. Prayers offered with utmost sincerity are sure to receive a response, as echoes answer one another in an empty valley. Today we pray on behalf of a certain person: may a sovereign who occupies the exalted seat at the Northern Gate receive protection; may peace prevail throughout the realm, with clear rivers and calm seas; may his lifespan be as enduring as the Southern Mountain, and his blessings last for generations. May civil and military officials alike receive increases in rank and stipend, and may everyone within and beyond the palace remain safe and healthy. May peace reign throughout the realm, and may all living things receive the nurturing grace of its teachings. We respectfully invite the assembled ritual community to draw upon the merit of reciting scriptures and performing rites to forge auspicious bonds for all.

Together we invoke: the Heavenly Worthies of the Three Pure Ones and Three Realms; the Heavenly Worthy of Celebration Bestowed by the Nine Heavens; and the Heavenly Worthy of the Numinous Treasure of the Ten Directions. Their merit is inconceivable.

The liturgy for the True Lords’ jade rites has now concluded.

Liturgy of Vows to the True Lords

Offering Incense:

We now respectfully burn precious incense and sincerely make offerings to the True Lord of Vast Grace, the deity venerated in Daoist worship, whose full title is the Great Immortal of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, Bright in the Dao and Attained in Virtue, Manifest in Spirit and Broad in Salvation, Pure and Subtle, Profound and Mysterious, Empty and Transcendent, Wondrous in Response, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, Esteemed for Blessings and Vast Grace.

Worship is offered to the Supreme Immortal of the Jade Palace in the Nine Heavens, who proclaims transformation and supports the teaching—the Supreme Immortal who dwells in the Jade Palace in the Nine Heavens, spreads its teachings, and assists Daoism. This deity reveals numinous power, offers relief far and wide, possesses lofty virtue, is vast and tranquil, pure, empty, and profound, responds with wondrous subtlety, is benevolent and compassionate, assists the state, and sincerely accepts offerings.

Worship is offered to the Great Immortal of the Golden Palace in the Nine Heavens, who illuminates the Dao and manifests De—the Great Immortal who dwells in the Golden Palace in the Nine Heavens, elucidates the Great Dao, and makes De shine—and to the True Lord whose numinous manifestations bring universal aid, whose purity is subtle and whose insight penetrates the profound mysteries, who is empty and wondrously responsive, compassionate and kind, protects the state and shelters the people, increases their blessings, and bestows abundant grace. This deity manifests numinous efficacy and offers relief far and wide; purity and subtlety, insight into the profound mysteries, emptiness, and wondrous responsiveness; compassion and kindness; protection for the state and shelter for the people; increased blessings and abundant grace.

Worship is offered to the True Lord of Abundant Blessings and Great Grace, who proclaims transformation and supports the teaching in the Jade Palace in the Nine Heavens; reveals numinous power and brings universal aid; is lofty in virtue, vast and tranquil, empty and profound, wondrously responsive, benevolent and kind; and assists the state and protects the people. This deity spreads the teachings and supports Daoism, reveals numinous power, offers relief far and wide, possesses lofty virtue, is vast and tranquil, pure, empty, and profound, responds with wondrous subtlety, is benevolent and compassionate, assists the state and protects the people, increases their blessings, and bestows abundant grace.

The immortals in the palace and all the numinous officials—the divine generals who guard Daoist temples and oversee their affairs—accept offerings together.

It is respectfully said that when divine beings reveal their merit, they are often described as upright and wise. It is human nature to seek comfort and hope for wealth and rank. When people offer sacrifice to divine beings, blessings descend from them; should the rites not therefore be conducted with due solemnity? The Perfected Lord has been worshipped for more than four hundred years, and the incense offerings have flourished ever since. The inscription contains a thousand words, recording deeds worthy of being passed down in song. The Perfected Lord’s fame shines brightly and endures forever; his virtue and righteousness are awe-inspiring, as though he still stood before us. His achievements have safeguarded the state, and his grace has reached the people.

When farmers labor diligently in the fields, they rejoice in abundant harvests of millet, glutinous millet, rice, and sorghum. When craftsmen work with care, their skills accord with rules and standards. Scholars make loyalty and filial devotion the foundation of their lives; merchants conduct their business with benevolence and righteousness. Those who pray for marriage wish for harmony between spouses and a happy home; those who pray for children hope to bear sons and daughters and see their descendants thrive. The Perfected Lord sends wind and rain at the proper times, allowing all things to grow and prosper and fulfilling the people’s hopes for family and livelihood. He also bestows clothing and food, granting everyone the blessings of warmth and nourishment. His grace benefits all things, enabling each to flourish as it should; he regulates the four seasons, keeping the cycle of the year in order.

People look up to the Perfected Lord as they look up to Mount Tai and the Northern Dipper, symbols of figures held in the highest esteem. His radiance is vast, and he has never left us. When he appears, he is like a felicitous star or auspicious clouds, signs of good fortune. People vie to behold him and rejoice in the sight. Therefore, grand rites should be held to display the Perfected Lord’s divine majesty.

In the past, the Perfected Lord was honored with an imperial plaque; now he has received Heaven’s favor as well. His spirit seat has ascended to the Golden and Jade Palaces, the celestial courts of Daoist tradition, and his title has been elevated to Great Immortal and Supreme Immortal. His exalted honorifics are praised, and his retinue is magnificent and imposing. His sacrifices will continue for a hundred generations, making him a model for the gods. The Perfected Lord follows the same way as the cosmic transformation that nurtures all things; he endures from high antiquity without growing old.

Though our hearts admire the Dao, our talent and virtue fall short of those of others. We now offer a small expression of gratitude in return, presenting a humble token of reverence. We respectfully establish this sacrificial assembly and dare to make our prayer known to the divine. We humbly pray that the Perfected Lord will come winding down, jade bells ringing at his waist, borne by eight divine dragons; may he lead the rainbow clouds to welcome him and command the Celestial Gate, the entrance to the heavenly palace, to open. May Feng, the spirit of abundance, go before him to guide the way, and Feilian, the wind spirit, race behind. May the Perfected Lord descend at ease and accept our offerings; may the rite be solemn and pure, and may blessings and long life shine upon us.

We offer cassia wine and pepper-infused liquor, prepare the sacrificial food with sweet basil, and spread orchids for the ritual mats. May the Perfected Lord descend in freedom and ease, lingering to gaze upon the human world. We respectfully and ardently await his manifestation, our hearts sincere and earnest. What follows concerns the Perfected Lord’s original vow and divine incantation, which we respectfully recite and uphold: “Perfected Lord, Perfected Lord, Great God of the Northern Dipper…”

The divine incantations have now been recited. We respectfully invite the sacred father, the True Lord Qi Wang Zhongwu Yiliang; the sacred mother, the Immortal Consort Renshou Shushan; the two True Lords of the Golden and Jade Palaces of the Nine Heavens; and the two Immortal Consorts of Jing and Wei to descend.

We respectfully invite all the divine beings to attend the ritual assembly. The assembled perfected ones take their places in turn and bow. When the bows are complete, each ascends to a ritual seat. The congregation bows in reverence and burns incense.

Extolling the incense, holding the incense burner in both hands.

We say with reverence: To offer virtue to the gods, one need not rely only on offerings of millet and panicled millet to give off fragrance. Those who do good have virtue like orchids and irises, and naturally give off a sweet scent. This incense burner presents auspiciousness; its fragrance curls upward and becomes clouds of smoke. A peaceful, harmonious presence spreads everywhere, as though bringing spring to Heaven and Earth. As we hold the incense, it is as if a messenger stands before us; as we attend the burner, it is as if an attendant youth follows behind.

If this is a Zhaijiao ritual, recite: “We bow our heads and pay homage, offering in reverence.” If it is not a Zhaijiao ritual, say: “The wine is set out; we perform the first offering.” We respectfully present this cup of wine to all the gods. The congregation focuses its thoughts and makes its offering with reverence.

Chanting the incense verse.

A lotus rises from the clouds of Heaven; a mighty wind sweeps across the four seas. In the deep Dragon Palace, precious secrets are kept, and the Sea God presents them to the immortals. Now, with utmost sincerity, we make our offering. Its fragrance curls upward to the Purple Court, the dwelling of the Celestial Emperor. The incense smoke reaches the realm of Wuwei (non-action), and all that is prayed for may be fulfilled.

The congregation responds: “All offer with one heart.” Flowers are then scattered. Incense smoke rises before the ritual altar and circles it once.

Extolling the pure water, holding the water vessel in both hands.

Water is offered to the lords and nobles, with loyalty and sincerity as its foundation. Its source flows without ceasing, day and night. I am aware that the praise my reputation receives exceeds my actual worth. The water is neither turbid nor clouded, but remains clear and pure. In the heavens it becomes rain and dew, caught by copper pillars and golden stems; beneath the earth it becomes sweet springs, which people drink as though tasting jade nectar. Those who understand the Way act without contention, thereby putting the highest good into practice. The waters all flow eastward; from this their source takes its course.

When a Zhaijiao purification ritual is held, one says, “We bow our heads and offer our devout support.” When no Zhaijiao ritual is held, one says, “The wine has been set out; we present the second offering.” We raise this cup of wine, with water assisting the sacrifice; all join their minds in devotion and offer their support with reverence.

Water Hymn

The waters of the heavenly Milky Way brim over, clear and deep, reflecting the four quarters. They become rain and dew and descend, blessing the vast earth and sky; below, they moisten what is parched and nourish all living things. We ladle up water and offer it to express our wholehearted sincerity, cleansing both body and mind. All join in the offering, sincerely scattering flowers in homage.

Water Hymn

The waters of the heavenly Milky Way brim over, clear and deep, reflecting the four quarters. They become rain and dew and descend, blessing the vast earth and sky; below, they moisten what is parched and nourish all living things. We ladle up water and offer it to express our wholehearted sincerity, cleansing both body and mind. All join in the offering and scatter flowers in homage. The water’s source does not lie in the veins of the earth; it flows down in streams from the heavenly river… circling and winding as it courses toward the distance.

Lament for the Flowers and Flower Offering

Layer upon layer of emerald leaves shade the purification rites; flourishing jade blossoms reveal the spirit’s presence in a lush garden. The fragrance of these flowers originally comes from…; their colors, too, are never fixed. Red lotus blossoms in a pond may suddenly turn jade green; white peonies may also be dyed yellow. A branch of osmanthus in the Palace of Vast Cold shines beneath the autumn moon; a thousand peach trees in the grotto of Wuling blossom with laughing faces in the spring breeze. Wishing to express a wholehearted devotion like the sunflower turning toward the sun, we make a modest offering of ping and fan, plants presented in sacrifice.

When a Zhaijiao ritual is held, one says, “We bow our heads and offer our devout support.” When no Zhaijiao ritual is held, one says, “The wine has been set out; we present the final offering.” We raise this cup of wine, with water assisting the sacrifice; all join their minds in devotion and offer their support with reverence.

Flower Hymn

In Xuanpu, the immortal realm where the gods dwell, precious flowers grow thick and lush, their roots intertwined and their branches spreading in every direction. Upright and beautiful, they have endured for eight hundred years, their fragrance reaching the human world. In the radiant realm, splendor shines bright as jeweled flowers drift down in profusion. We gather the purest and finest of them and offer them together today. All join in making the offering. Scatter the flowers. Wherever the flowers fall, fragrance fills the air. All circle around and bow in reverence.

Recite the Scripture of the Perfected Lords; the rites for listening to the scripture proceed as usual.

Reverently, we observe: the spirit roams in the Dao (the Way), unseen and unheard. With the intent of the spirit, we hold fast to the Great Dao, as though seeing it before us. All join in making the offering. Scatter the flowers. Wherever the flowers fall, fragrance fills the air. All circle around and bow in reverence.

Recite the Scripture of the Perfected Lords; the rites for listening to the scripture proceed as usual.

Reverently, we observe: the spirit roams in the Dao, unseen and unheard. With the intent of the spirit, we hold fast to the Great Dao; it seems to be before us, then suddenly behind us. The Great Dao is hidden and without end, impossible to describe fully, so we reluctantly give it a name in order to speak of it.

Since the opening of the celestial realm in the era of Chiming, the celestial charts and registers, the heavenly books, have descended into the human world. Celestial spirits took up their brushes to set down the Mandate of Heaven, and human writing and instruction arose from this as well. Emperor Yu bestowed the scriptures upon the people before the Terrace of Cultivated Virtue, while the Yellow Emperor transmitted them on Mount Emei. One person obtained scriptures at Gouqu, fulfilling King Helü’s wish; another obtained them at Mount Zhong, thereby accomplishing the works of Yu the Great. How much more, then, can these scriptures and teachings, passed down through the ages, enable all beings to understand and awaken?

All this is due to the protection bestowed by the following Perfected Lords:

The Perfected Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Golden Palace, Who Illumines the Dao and Attains Virtue, Manifestly Responds and Universally Aids, Pure and Subtle, Cavernous Mystery, Empty and Profound, Wonderously Responsive, Compassionate and Kind, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, Exalting Blessings and Bestowing Great Grace;

The Perfected Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Jade Palace, Who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teachings, the High Immortal Who Shines with Numinosity and Aids Broadly, Lofty and Bright, Vastly Still, Profound and Deep, Wonderously Responsive, Benevolent and Kind, Supporting the State and Blessing the People, Magnifying Blessings and Bestowing Great Grace.

Above, they assist the perfected spirits of the Northern Dipper at the North Pole; within, they study the mysterious teachings of Donghua. Through hundreds of millions of kalpas, they practiced across age after age. They made fifty-five vows, each one saving living beings. They refined gold to make phoenix-shaped seal script and carved jade to inscribe chapters in the form of dragons. May they join all sentient beings in ascending together upon the supreme Great Dao. All those gathered at the sacred altar bow their heads and take refuge. Through kalpas of practice, each of the fifty-five vows saves beings; refining gold, they made phoenix seals, carving jade, they inscribed dragon chapters. May they join all sentient beings in ascending together upon the supreme Great Dao. All those gathered at the sacred altar bow their heads, take refuge, and praise with undivided attention.

Together, chant the Hymn of the Perfected Lords’ Original Vows.

The assembly respectfully invites the holy deity to ascend to the celestial court and mount the steps to Heaven. The deity’s radiance shines alongside the sun and moon, and the deity governs the Three Terrace star officials. Constellations encircle and guard the deity, while the stars of the Celestial River glitter and wheel overhead. The Dragon Horn star, among the Seven Mansions of the Azure Dragon in the east, stands alone at the head of the Dipper Mansion. The Huagai, Fang Mansion, and Si stars, among other star officials, assist at the deity’s side, each with clearly defined duties. The Feathered Forest generals, celestial guards of the court, guide the deity on the left and welcome the deity on the right. Instruments sound one after another, their melodies blending in harmony. The holy deity returns in glory to the celestial palace, treading a cloud road that stretches ten thousand miles.

Cue: Everyone at the altar should offer reverent praise and bow in worship.

Proceed according to the ritual.

With utmost sincerity, we take refuge and pay homage: the holy deity’s virtue is equal to Heaven and Earth, and the deity’s achievements rival the sun and moon. The deity’s powers of transformation are wondrous and unfathomable; the deity is upright and wise, boundless in compassion, and profound in vows. Responding to circumstances, the deity answers those in need and vows to save the people of the world.

Homage to the Great Immortal of the Golden Gate in the Nine Heavens, Who Illumines the Dao and Attains Virtue, Manifests Power throughout Heaven and Earth: the deity’s achievements rival the sun and moon; the deity’s powers of transformation are wondrous and unfathomable; the deity is upright and wise, boundless in compassion, and profound in vows. Responding to circumstances, the deity answers those in need and vows to save the people of the world.

Homage to the True Lord of the Golden Gate in the Nine Heavens, Who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teachings, the Supreme Immortal Who Illumines the Sacred, Extends Universal Aid, and Is High and Clear, Vast and Still, Profound and Empty, Wondrous in Response, Benevolent and Compassionate, Protecting the State and Blessing the People, and Bestowing Prosperity, Blessings, and Great Grace.

With utmost sincerity, we take refuge and pay homage: the holy deity’s might shakes the thunder; the deity’s grace falls everywhere like rain and dew. The deity’s powers are freely exercised, and the deity’s blessings and virtue are boundless. The deity is boundless in compassion and profound in vows, responding to the needs of each age and vowing to save the people of the world.

Homage to the True Lord of the Jade Gate in the Nine Heavens, the Supreme Immortal Who Proclaims Transformation and Supports the Teachings, Illumines the Sacred, Extends Universal Aid, and Is Lofty and Clear, Magnanimous and Still, Profound and Serene, Wondrous in Response, Benevolent and Compassionate, Assisting the State and Blessing the People, and Bestowing Prosperity, Blessings, and Great Grace.

The Great Dao is lofty and majestic, beyond the reach of words. The flourishing spiritual energy of the Nine Heavens gathers in the True Lord. From ancient times to the present, the True Lord’s merit and virtue have endured without end; the deity’s transformations are inexhaustible, wondrous, and numinous. All sing together: Today we reverently praise the holy deity’s virtue. May the deity bestow radiant power and witness our sincere hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme Dao.

With utmost sincerity, we take refuge and pay homage: the holy deity’s virtue is equal to Heaven and Earth, and the deity’s achievements rival the sun and moon, and so forth.

“Golden Gate in the Nine Heavens …” (A ritual cue to continue reciting the following text.)

All sing together with utmost sincerity: Today we reverently praise the holy deity’s virtue. May the deity bestow radiant power and witness our sincere hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme Dao.

With utmost sincerity, we take refuge and pay homage: the holy deity’s virtue is equal to Heaven and Earth, and the deity’s achievements rival the sun and moon, and so forth.

“Golden Gate in the Nine Heavens …” (A ritual cue to continue reciting the following text.)

With utmost sincerity, we take refuge and pay homage: the holy deity’s might shakes the thunder; the deity’s grace falls everywhere like rain and dew, and so forth.

(Nine Heavens Jade Palace and Nine Heavens Golden Palace refer to palaces in the celestial realm. The word “clouds,” which appears repeatedly below, indicates that the sung lines have been omitted here.) The ancestors of the Xu family established their foundations and founded a state. A vermilion bow and crimson arrows descended as auspicious signs. Their descendants flourished, and many gifted and renowned people emerged; their deeds are all recorded in the histories.

Chorus: We now devoutly praise the sage’s virtue…

All bow in sincere reverence and submit their lives: Your virtue is matched with Heaven and Earth…

All bow in sincere reverence and submit their lives: Your might shakes the thunder, and your grace spreads widely like rain and dew…

In the Five Dynasties, warlords contended for supremacy. Only one man rose in Huainan and accomplished great deeds. His name, “Loyal and Martial,” has been passed down in the histories; a thousand years later, the state of Qi still inherits his princely title.

Chorus: We now devoutly praise the sage’s virtue…

All bow in sincere reverence and submit their lives: Your virtue is matched with Heaven and Earth…

All bow in sincere reverence and submit their lives: Your might shakes the thunder…

He raised troops in the cause of righteousness and led the royal army to capture the Seven Min lands—the ancient name for the area around Fujian. The Seven Min submitted…

He raised troops in the cause of righteousness and led the royal army to capture the Seven Min lands, which submitted without a battle. Officials and commoners alike lived in peace as before. The people filled bamboo baskets with rice and jars with wine, and joyfully went out to welcome the army.

Chorus: We now devoutly praise the sage’s virtue…

All bow in sincere reverence and submit their lives: Your virtue is matched with Heaven and Earth…

All bow in sincere reverence and submit their lives: Your might shakes the thunder…

The rites and their solemn forms remained as before, as people joyfully welcomed the army from the east. Though the people were as guileless as young children, would they dare to take up arms and rebel? You were born on Mount Aofeng, and have long received offerings in the temple. The court bestowed your title in a vermilion edict, bearing witness that you are a true deity.

Chorus: We now devoutly praise the sage’s virtue…

All bow in sincere reverence and submit their lives: Your virtue is matched with Heaven and Earth…

All bow in sincere reverence and submit their lives: Your might shakes the thunder…

They cleared the thatch and felled the trees to build a shrine. Day and night, people burn incense and pray for your birthday. To receive offerings in a temple and be granted a princely title is the wish of a man; the divine radiance of the imperial house shines down upon you.

Chorus: We now devoutly praise the sage’s virtue…

All bow in sincere reverence and submit their lives: Your virtue is matched with Heaven and Earth…

Clouds of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens.

With sincere hearts, we return to the Way and pay homage. Its might shakes thunder itself. The following text is omitted.

Clouds of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

This sacred mountain retreat, the abode of immortals, stands on Ao Peak; the scene before the ancestral shrine remains as it was. Vines twine together, their green reaching beyond the blue clouds. A dragon pool sends down a flying waterfall, and spring water rushes forth.

Chanted together: Now, with reverent hearts, we praise the sage’s virtue. The following text is omitted.

With sincere hearts, we return to the Way and pay homage: this sacred mountain retreat, the abode of immortals, stands on Ao Peak; the scene before the ancestral shrine remains as it was. Vines twine together, their green reaching beyond the blue clouds. A dragon pool sends down a flying waterfall, and spring water rushes forth.

Chanted together: Now, with reverent hearts, we praise the sage’s virtue. The following text is omitted.

With sincere hearts, we return to the Way and pay homage. His virtue is the equal of Heaven and Earth. The following text is omitted.

Clouds of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens.

With sincere hearts, we return to the Way and pay homage. Its might shakes thunder itself. The following text is omitted.

Clouds of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

Five-colored clouds part, revealing purple banners. The wooden furnace remains unscathed—what wonder is there in that? Heaven sent down a pair of dragons to guard it; surely such a numinous manifestation bears its own proof.

Chanted together: Now, with reverent hearts, we praise the sage’s virtue. The following text is omitted.

With sincere hearts, we return to the Way and pay homage. His virtue is the equal of Heaven and Earth. The following text is omitted.

Clouds of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens.

With sincere hearts, we return to the Way and pay homage. Its might shakes thunder itself. The following text is omitted.

Clouds of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

One day, thunder and rain suddenly arose. A pair of dragons swam upstream along the stream as far as the island. They transformed into a wooden furnace, manifesting a sacred auspice; the villagers therefore built a shrine and worshiped it.

Chanted together: Now, with reverent hearts, we praise the sage’s virtue. The following text is omitted.

With sincere hearts, we return to the Way and pay homage. His virtue is the equal of Heaven and Earth. The following text is omitted.

Clouds of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens.

With sincere hearts, we return to the Way and pay homage. Its might shakes thunder itself. The following text is omitted.

Clouds of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

Since ancient times, local customs have been simple and generous, and people have called this an age of peace and harmony. Whether rain falls or the skies are clear, prayers often receive a response. Please grant the two characters “Queyun” as an honored title.

With sincere hearts, we return to the Way and pay homage. Its might shakes thunder itself. The following text is omitted.

Clouds of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

Since ancient times, local customs have been simple and generous, and people have called this an age of peace and harmony. Whether it rains or the sky is clear, prayers often receive a response. Please bestow these two characters as an honored title.

Chanted together: Now, with reverent hearts, we praise the sage’s virtue. The following text is omitted.

With sincere hearts, we return to the Way and pay homage. His virtue is the equal of Heaven and Earth. The following text is omitted.

Clouds of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens.

With sincere hearts, we return to the Way and pay homage. Its might shakes thunder itself. The following text is omitted.

The Jade Que of the Nine Heavens (the heavenly palace of jade) says:

Long ago, when the temple was moved to Yanxi, it was built on a small hillside beside the stream. Seas changed into mulberry fields, and much in the world has shifted over time. Even now, local elders still call that place the Altar of the Soil, where the Earth God is worshipped.

Response: We now sincerely praise your sacred virtue…

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge in and pay homage to you. Your virtue is matched with Heaven and Earth…

The Golden Que of the Nine Heavens (the golden palace) says:

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge in and pay homage to you. Your might shakes the thunder…

The Jade Que of the Nine Heavens says:

During the Zhenghe era, the shrine was built on a grand scale. Its ridges rose like dragon heads, and the ground before its gates stood high. Wind through the firs beyond the eaves rang clear and bright; in the hall, moonlight swayed through the shadows of the cassia trees.

Response: We now sincerely praise your sacred virtue…

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge in and pay homage to you. Your virtue is matched with Heaven and Earth…

The Golden Que of the Nine Heavens says:

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge in and pay homage to you. Your might shakes the thunder…

The Jade Que of the Nine Heavens says:

The cassia trees are reflected in the moonlight, their shadows swaying softly.

Response: We now sincerely praise your sacred virtue…

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge in and pay homage to you. Your virtue is matched with Heaven and Earth…

The Golden Que of the Nine Heavens says:

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge in and pay homage to you. Your might shakes the thunder…

The Jade Que of the Nine Heavens says:

The Great Dao is formless and soundless, remote and beyond fathoming. The virtue of perfect harmony can reach and move the spirits. At night, auspicious signs appear: doubled radiance shines, and starry lamps glitter. When the nine-part music is performed, the sound of heavenly music can also be heard.

Response: We now sincerely praise your sacred virtue…

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge in and pay homage to you. Your virtue is matched with Heaven and Earth…

The Golden Que of the Nine Heavens says:

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge in and pay homage to you. Your might shakes the thunder…

The Jade Que of the Nine Heavens says:

The place was named for the miraculous manifestation of the dragon banner. The royal official who prayed for rain later rebuilt the shrine. These events are recorded on a stele and passed down by word of mouth. Each autumn and winter, the rites are held at their appointed times to repay the deity’s grace.

Response: We now sincerely praise your sacred virtue…

Here, the stone pagoda is described as rising high into the clouds. When cultivation is complete and merit fulfilled, one departs by way of the bonds formed in the past. May the Dharma body, the cultivated body beyond the flesh, never perish, and may its light shine throughout the three thousand great thousand worlds, the vast universe of Buddhist cosmology.

Response: We now sincerely praise your sacred virtue…

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge in and pay homage to you. We now sincerely praise your sacred virtue…

The stone pagoda rises high into the clouds. When the practice has reached fulfillment and its merit is complete, it is entrusted to the bonds of the past. May the Dharma body never perish, and may its radiance shine throughout the three thousand worlds.

Then everyone joined in praising the sacred virtue: “Now, with reverence, we praise the sacred virtue…” They focused their minds in taking refuge and paying homage, praising his virtue as the equal of Heaven and Earth and honoring him as the deity of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens. They also praised his might, which shook the thunder, and honored him as the deity of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

When Chan Master Dingying was practicing at Pangu Hermitage, I studied with him and gained some insight. Even when one enters directly into suchness—the realm of what is true and free from delusion—the mind can suddenly open into clarity.

Then everyone again joined in praising the sacred virtue and reverently took refuge and paid homage. They praised his virtue as the equal of Heaven and Earth and his might as a force that shook the thunder, honoring him as the deity of the Golden Palace and Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

During the Jiading era, fields were overrun with demonic insects. After people went to the shrine to pray for the disaster to be dispelled and to offer thanks, the infestation moved south. That year, they also dreamed of fish as an auspicious sign; the crops were abundant and the granaries full.

Then everyone joined in praising the sacred virtue and reverently took refuge and paid homage. They praised his virtue as the equal of Heaven and Earth and his might as a force that shook the thunder, honoring him as the deity of the Golden Palace and Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

Salt boats from Guangze encountered a violent wind. In the middle of the river, their mooring ropes snapped, and the boats lost their course. People prayed with a single petal of incense held in sincere devotion, as though the deity stood before them. At once, the boats turned, and the waterway became passable again.

Then everyone joined in praising the sacred virtue and reverently took refuge and paid homage. They praised his virtue as the equal of Heaven and Earth and his might as a force that shook the thunder, honoring him as the deity of the Golden Palace and Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

People throughout the region built shrines in his honor; no one knows when the branch shrines first began to appear. His merit is renowned and endures like the sun and moon. Ask the local elders, and every one of them can bear witness.

Then everyone joined in praising the sacred virtue, extolling his virtue as the equal of Heaven and Earth and honoring him as the deity of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens.

Reverently, we bow before the deity and take refuge in them, praising their might, which shakes the thunder… (“And so on” indicates that the original text is omitted here or that the same wording continues.)

The deity dwells in a jade palace above the Nine Heavens (a palace in the celestial realm)…

The deity has received sacrifices from the human world for four hundred years. People respectfully offer sacrificial dishes cooked with fragrant herbs and osmanthus wine, observing every rite with wholehearted devotion. The divination concerning Rongyun came true, its result fitting like matching tallies. The deity’s grace remains in people’s hearts, and their fame reaches throughout the land.

The refrain praises: Now we devoutly extol the deity’s great virtue…

Reverently, we bow before the deity and take refuge in them, praising their virtue as equal to Heaven and Earth…

The deity has received sacrifices from the human world for four hundred years. People respectfully offer sacrificial dishes cooked with fragrant herbs and osmanthus wine, observing every rite with wholehearted devotion. The divination concerning Rongyun came true, its result fitting like matching tallies. The deity’s grace remains in people’s hearts, and their fame reaches throughout the land.

The refrain praises: Now we devoutly extol the deity’s great virtue…

Reverently, we bow before the deity and take refuge in them, praising their virtue as equal to Heaven and Earth…

The Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens (a golden palace in the celestial realm)…

Reverently, we bow before the deity and take refuge in them, praising their might, which shakes the thunder…

The Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens…

The deity once manifested at Gong Mountain, making the plants and trees display miraculous signs. During the Jiaxi era, an imperial edict bestowed new favor. The court issued a proclamation, conferring on the deity the title “Lingji” in a decree written in gold. The temple has stood for a thousand years, unmatched in size and renown throughout the Eight Min (the Fujian region).

The refrain praises: Now we praise the deity’s sacred virtue, which endures with Heaven and Earth…

Reverently, we bow before the deity and take refuge in them, praising their virtue as equal to Heaven and Earth…

The Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens…

Reverently, we bow before the deity and take refuge in them, praising their might, which shakes the thunder…

The Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens… The Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens…

Reverently, we bow before the deity and take refuge in them, praising their might, which shakes the thunder.

The Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens…

The foolish and ignorant people did not know to guard against danger before it arose. They left the chimney bent instead of repairing it, and failed to move the firewood beside it in time. The deity revealed a shining fire-rescue banner and secretly lent aid, turning the wind around so that the people could rely on divine protection and escape danger.

The refrain praises: Now we devoutly extol the deity’s sacred virtue and praise the Golden Palace…

Reverently, we bow before the deity and take refuge in them, praising their might, which shakes the thunder.

The Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens…

The foolish and ignorant people did not know to guard against danger before it arose. They left the chimney bent instead of repairing it, and failed to move the firewood beside it in time. The deity revealed a shining fire-rescue banner and secretly lent aid, turning the wind around so that the people could rely on divine protection and escape danger.

The refrain praises: Now we devoutly extol the deity’s sacred virtue…

Reverently, we bow before the deity and take refuge in them, praising their virtue as equal to Heaven and Earth…

The Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens…

Reverently, we bow before the deity and take refuge in them, praising their might, which shakes the thunder…

The Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens…

I have heard that during the Baoqing era, drought brought scorching heat like fire. Kuibi, the name of a star lodge, prayed with sincere devotion, and the gods heard. The shape of a red snake appeared on the table. Then thunder boomed like a drum, and torrential rain poured down.

The antiphonal hymn says, “Now we respectfully praise the sacred virtue…” It then turns to wholehearted devotion and reverent homage, praising the deity’s virtue as equal to Heaven and Earth and saying that the deity resides in the Golden Palace of the Ninth Heaven. It also praises the deity’s might as shaking the thunder, and says that the deity resides in the Jade Palace of the Ninth Heaven. These are set phrases repeatedly chanted in praise.

At Cangxia, a boat struck a rocky shoal and lost its oars in midstream. Those aboard were suddenly overcome with fear. They hurriedly called upon the deity, and a divine tiger and yellow banner appeared. The deity then came to their rescue, and in an instant they were safe from danger.

The antiphonal hymn again praises the sacred virtue and offers wholehearted devotion and reverent homage, lauding virtue equal to Heaven and Earth, residence in the Golden Palace of the Ninth Heaven, and might that shakes the thunder, with residence in the Jade Palace of the Ninth Heaven.

In the Zhaoding area, streams and waterfalls rushed along, flooding the fields and causing great concern. People often heard that divine troops appeared in the deep harbor. They also rejoiced that the crops had yielded abundant harvests year after year, every year a year of plenty.

The antiphonal hymn again uses set words of praise for the sacred virtue, lauding virtue equal to Heaven and Earth, might that shakes the thunder, and residence in the Golden and Jade Palaces of the Ninth Heaven.

People all say that customs were simple and wholesome during the Chunxi era, so why did a comet appear in the west? The deity had the power to dispel calamity and quell strange portents. Why, then, blame Baizhangshi, the official in charge of astronomy and the calendar, for these ill omens?

The antiphonal hymn again praises the sacred virtue, lauding virtue equal to Heaven and Earth, might that shakes the thunder, and residence in the Golden and Jade Palaces of the Ninth Heaven.

Since antiquity, literary talent and learning have enabled people to establish themselves and win renown. During the Shaoxing era, prophetic signs revealed the deity’s intent. The two prefects reflected one another’s distinction; now that they have both passed the imperial examinations in the same year, it is worth celebrating that worthy men have been found.

At the end, the antiphonal hymn of praise is repeated, continuing to laud the sacred virtue and the deity’s residence in the Jade Palace of the Ninth Heaven.

Since ancient times, writing has helped people establish great achievements. During the Shaoxing era, divine powers revealed their efficacy through talismanic omens—mysterious signs foretelling good or ill fortune. The reputations of the two prefects shone together; now that their names appear on the same list, this is cause for celebration.

The responses sing: “Now we respectfully praise the sacred virtue…” The following is omitted.

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge and bow: their virtue is worthy to match Heaven and Earth… The following is omitted.

The Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens… The following is omitted.

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge and bow: their might shakes the thunder… The following is omitted.

The Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens… The following is omitted.

The Red-Robed Deity appeared in a dream to deliver a message to two scholars. By the Jiading era, their fame had carried on the glory of the Shaoxing era. After one sexagenary cycle—sixty years—the heavenly cycle came round once more, and the learning and achievements of the Shu and Sun families were passed down from generation to generation.

The responses sing: “Now we respectfully praise the sacred virtue…” The following is omitted.

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge and bow: their virtue is worthy to match Heaven and Earth… The following is omitted.

The Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens… The following is omitted.

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge and bow: their might shakes the thunder… The following is omitted.

The Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens… The following is omitted.

A man with lofty aspirations boldly seeks fame and achievement. And as a court gentleman, he ought to hold a place among the stars. A revelation in a dream points to Fu Yan, where the worthy minister Fu Yue was said to have been discovered in the Shang dynasty; in time, he will surely be entrusted with important duties. In this ancestral temple, the deity has shown its efficacy.

The responses sing: “Now we respectfully praise the sacred virtue…” The following is omitted.

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge and bow: their virtue is worthy to match Heaven and Earth… The following is omitted.

The Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens… The following is omitted.

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge and bow: their might shakes the thunder… The following is omitted.

The Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens… The following is omitted.

Within the Jade-water Hall, scholars are plentiful and neatly arrayed in their robes and caps. Two families have each had a son, and all rejoice, foreseeing that they will become men of virtue. In the Jiaxi era, the two families sat for the examinations together, as if in accord with Heaven’s design. Auspicious dreams arrived, foretelling the happy occasion of writing fine prose and gaining distinction.

The responses sing: “Now we respectfully praise the sacred virtue…” The following is omitted.

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge and bow: their virtue is worthy to match Heaven… the Jade Palace.

Within the Jade-water Hall, scholars are plentiful. The two families have each had a son, and all rejoice, foreseeing that they will become men of virtue. In the Jiaxi era, the two families sat for the examinations together, as if in accord with Heaven’s design. Auspicious dreams arrived, foretelling success in literary composition.

The responses sing: “Now we respectfully praise the sacred virtue…” The following is omitted.

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge and bow: their virtue is worthy to match Heaven and Earth… The following is omitted.

The Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens… The following is omitted.

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge and bow: their might shakes the thunder… The following is omitted.

The Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens… The following is omitted.

In the Xianchun era, the sovereign issued an edict to select candidates through the prefectural examinations. The deity who governs examination success had its own arrangements. Heaven’s design was revealed through talismanic signs, making the auspicious omens known; it also appeared at the tip of the brush, lending brilliance to the writing.

The responses sing: “Now we respectfully praise the sacred virtue…” The following is omitted.

With single-minded devotion, we take refuge and bow: their virtue is worthy to match Heaven and Earth…

With reverent hearts, we take refuge and bow. Divine might shakes the thunder. Within the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, clouds and mist swirl.

With reverent hearts, we take refuge and bow. Divine might shakes the thunder. Within the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, clouds and mist swirl.

One who delights in goodness and generosity, and regards wealth lightly, is called an elder. It is said that he secretly aided others, and his good name endured through the ages. For six generations, his descendants passed the examinations and entered official service, rising to the rank of Senior Grand Master.

Chanted together: Now we devoutly praise the virtue of the sage, and so forth.

Within the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, clouds and mist swirl.

One who delights in goodness and generosity, and regards wealth lightly, is called an elder. It is said that he secretly aided others, and his good name endured through the ages. For six generations, his descendants passed the examinations and entered official service, rising to the rank of Senior Grand Master.

Chanted together: Now we devoutly praise the virtue of the sage, and so forth.

With reverent hearts, we take refuge and bow. Sacred virtue is a match for Heaven and Earth, and so forth.

Within the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, clouds and mist swirl.

With reverent hearts, we take refuge and bow. Divine might shakes the thunder, and so forth.

Within the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, clouds and mist swirl.

His example seems still to shine in the Dou family of Yanshan. Household after household of its sons passed the examinations, like osmanthus blossoms opening, while the five branches of the family flourished. Since someone in the family had accumulated good deeds, an auspicious dream came, foretelling the birth of an outstanding child.

Chanted together: Now we devoutly praise the virtue of the sage, and so forth.

With reverent hearts, we take refuge and bow. Sacred virtue is a match for Heaven and Earth, and so forth.

Within the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, clouds and mist swirl.

With reverent hearts, we take refuge and bow. Divine might shakes the thunder, and so forth.

Within the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, clouds and mist swirl.

Blue cloth is woven into fine silk, its pattern interlaced with emerald hues; the mortal world becomes brocade, and blossoms are added to the brocade. The prophetic signs that appeared at night portend good fortune. May the spirits reveal their blessings and protect every household.

Within the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, clouds and mist swirl.

Blue cloth is woven into fine silk, its pattern interlaced with emerald hues; the mortal world becomes brocade, and blossoms are added to the brocade. The prophetic signs that appeared at night portend good fortune. May the spirits reveal their blessings and protect every household.

Chanted together: Now we devoutly praise the virtue of the sage, and so forth.

With reverent hearts, we take refuge and bow. Sacred virtue is a match for Heaven and Earth, and so forth.

Within the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, clouds and mist swirl.

With reverent hearts, we take refuge and bow. Divine might shakes the thunder, and so forth.

Within the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, clouds and mist swirl.

The source and course of the Great Dao are vast and boundless, beginning in Heaven. The River Chart and the Luo Writing, ancient auspicious diagrams of legend, have been handed down through the world. Heaven protects this text, so that its literary lineage has not been severed. People vie to speak of it: the Lingbao is a divine immortal of letters.

Chanted together: Now we devoutly praise the virtue of the sage, and so forth.

With reverent hearts, we take refuge and bow. Sacred virtue is a match for Heaven and Earth, and so forth.

Within the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, clouds and mist swirl.

With reverent hearts, we take refuge and bow. Divine might shakes the thunder, and so forth.

“Tranquil, detached, and inwardly empty, one naturally nurtures the spirit; by accumulating merit and practicing good deeds, one can become a perfected being.” This means that by keeping the heart calm, detached, empty, and free of desire, one naturally nurtures the spirit. Only through continually accumulating merit and cultivating good conduct can one become a perfected being.

“Quietly receiving the secret of long life from the Yellow Court, I am free to ascend on a jade carriage.” This means that through silent cultivation of the Yellow Court Scripture (a Daoist classic), one receives the secret of longevity and may thereby ascend to heaven, riding a jade carriage, a symbol of the conveyance of the immortals.

“His name is entered in the Golden Palace, his title shines in splendor; the ancestor of Zhengyang received instruction from Donghua.” These lines praise the person being honored: his name is listed in the Golden Palace of the celestial realm, the residence of the Celestial Emperor, and he received Daoist teachings from the Donghua Emperor and Patriarch Zhengyang. “Above, he oversees the offices of celestial astronomy; his appointed duties include managing the registers of official rank and assisting Wenchang,” the deity who oversees literary achievement and honors.

“Silently he studies the profound learning of the Donghua Grotto; at court in the Jade Palace, he pays homage to the Purple Tenuity Emperor. The Southern Pole deity, who records births, grants him authority as a chief minister; his duties also extend to governing the offices of the underworld.” These lines praise the person being honored for devoting himself to the study of profound Daoist teachings in the Donghua Grotto and appearing at court in the Jade Palace to pay homage to the Purple Tenuity Emperor, a revered celestial deity. He also assists the Southern Pole Immortal Elder, a deity associated with longevity and the recording of births, oversees the affairs of birth registration, and shares responsibility for the offices of the underworld.

“The ninth month brings the Longevity Festival; the clouds part, and the Golden Palace rises above the blue heavens. I now bow in homage at the Hall of Long Life, and together we pray that the honored one may enjoy a million years of blessings, revered like Emperor Yao.” This means that the Longevity Festival falls in the ninth month, when the clouds disperse and the Golden Palace appears high in the blue heavens. I perform a deep formal bow in the Hall of Long Life, and everyone joins in wishing the person being honored enduring happiness and longevity, revered like Emperor Yao and granted a lifespan of ten thousand years.

The “Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens” and “Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens” refer to palaces in the celestial realm. “With focused sincerity, I take refuge and pay homage” is a reverential formula used in Daoist liturgy (Keyi), expressing wholehearted, sincere devotion and homage. Phrases such as “Now I offer this sincere praise of the sacred one’s virtue,” “whose virtue is matched with Heaven and Earth,” and “whose might resounds like thunder” are conventional expressions of praise in ritual, extolling the deity’s virtue and power with sincere devotion.

On the joyful occasion of the grand Zhongyuan Festival, held on the fifteenth day of the seventh lunar month, the divine beings descend upon Mount Song and reveal the sacred energy of the earth. Incense smoke rises in curling wisps from the golden burners in the palace halls, while colorful clouds bear the Star of Longevity into view.

Chanted response: Now, with reverent hearts, we praise her sacred virtue in these words.

With sincere hearts, we take refuge and pay homage: In Lingji Hall, within Yanxi Hall, there is an immortal consort, by nature humble and gentle, whose virtue is as generous as the earth. Diligent in her duties, she aided the sovereign through her profound virtue, secretly performing good deeds and accumulating merit. Clad in feathered robes and rainbow-hued garments, she was admitted among the female immortals of Goushi; before the Lady of Mount Heng, she received instruction in the Yellow Court Scripture, a classic of Daoist cultivation. Her grace extends to all beings, and the incense offered in her worship will continue for a hundred generations. Most sacred and most numinous, supremely gentle and still, she is the Lady of Jing, the Immortal Consort of Harmonious Assistance, Benevolence, and Responsive Grace.

A golden crown adorned with the Seven Stars rests upon her head, as seven dragons and five phoenixes gather to welcome her. May we offer jade nectar and golden wine, praying that the most sacred and numinous, supremely gentle and still Lady of Jing, the Immortal Consort of Harmonious Assistance, Benevolence, and Responsive Grace, descend to bestow blessings.

A golden crown adorned with the Seven Stars rests upon her head, as seven dragons and five phoenixes gather to welcome her. May jade nectar and golden wine become rain and dew for the human world, spreading benevolent grace throughout all under heaven.

With sincere hearts, we take refuge and pay homage: In Lingji Palace, within Yanxi Hall, there is an immortal consort who herself practiced frugality and governed diligently. Through her virtuous conduct, she aided the sovereign and made the inner palace a source of upright example. When a worthy woman is chosen to assist in governing, there is no desire for improper private favor. As the Book of Songs says, rising at the crow of the cock to fulfill one’s duties brings a worthy consort. Thus we see that admonition and assistance, working together, can bring virtuous achievement to completion. Through her contributions in support of the sovereign, she accomplished great deeds, and her virtue nourishes all beings. Most sacred and most numinous, supremely gentle and still, she is the Lady of Wei, the Immortal Consort of Benevolent Assistance, Compassion, and Reverent Serenity.

The jade maidens who attend at her side convey her prayers, bringing peace and joy to the inner palace and completing the four forms of instruction for women: virtue, speech, appearance, and domestic skill. All things depend on her for growth, and none fail to be nourished. Supremely gentle and still, her virtue is matched with that of the earth.

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence, we take refuge and bow in worship. In the Hall of Kinship at Lingji Palace, a father’s grace is most exalted. Heaven itself knows the noble rank accorded to the father; the kindness of parents can never be fully repaid, and rites for honoring one’s elders have long been established. Moreover, by imperial command he assisted the sovereign, making the achievements of civil officials and military officers shine. He founded the state and established the family, shouldering alone a great responsibility like that borne by Yi Yin and the Duke of Zhou. His accomplishments safeguarded the state, and his blessings extended to his descendants. The spirit father, the True Lord Qi Wang, Loyal and Martial, Assisting and Illustrious, most sacred and numinous, supremely exalted and august, is indeed worthy of reverence.

In the courtyard, the father earnestly instructed his children in poetry, books, and ritual propriety; the mother managed the household with discipline and good order. Before the hall, we should learn from the filial conduct of Lao Laizi, who wore brightly colored clothes to amuse his parents. Let us raise our cups and wish our parents a thousand years of life.

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence, we take refuge and bow in worship. In the Hall of Kinship at the Spirit Palace, the mother was wise and virtuous, gentle and serene. She upheld the ways of a wife, occupied the central palace in its proper place, and accomplished the work of supporting the family and the state. Through her virtue of frugality she guided her household; her abundant goodness was recorded in song. She cultivated and practiced the inner teachings of ritual propriety, and her fine name was handed down in the histories. In gratitude for our mother’s loving kindness, we hold this family celebration. The spirit mother, the Immortal Consort of Benevolence, Longevity, Purity, and Goodness, most sacred and numinous, supremely compassionate and loving, is truly worthy of reverence.

We dare not forget the hardships our mother endured in raising her children. Her Kun virtue—the vast, generous, and steadfast virtue of the feminine, like the earth—is boundless. We will forever follow our loving mother’s teachings, carry on the family traditions, and recite the four stanzas of the poem “Si Qi.”

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence, we take refuge and bow in worship. In the Hall of Kinship at Ji Palace, brothers are like the xun, an ancient clay instrument, and the chi, an ancient bamboo instrument, sounding in harmony: they support one another and achieve things together. The mother’s Kun virtue is boundless. We will forever follow our loving mother’s teachings, carry on the family traditions, and recite the four stanzas of the poem “Si Qi.”

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence, we take refuge and bow in worship. In the Hall of Kinship at Ji Palace, brothers live in harmony, like the xun and chi playing together, and support one another. They combine literary talent with military skill and uphold the bonds of affection and respect between elder and younger brothers. The court granted them lands to guard as princely fiefs and increased their stipends as a mark of favor. Because their virtue was lofty and their achievements outstanding, they were ceremonially invested as kings on the same day. They loved one another as brothers, without resentment; they were harmonious, generous, and magnanimous. The spirit brothers, the assembled princes, most sacred and numinous, supremely affectionate and loving, are worthy of reverence.

Before the Hua’e Tower, families known for accumulated goodness lived together in one village. On the same day in years past, many members of the clan received honors and were ennobled as princes. The family was renowned for filial devotion to parents and affection among brothers, and its noble integrity was publicly praised. The legacy of kindness preserved in the Hall of Kinship has been celebrated for a thousand years.

With sincere hearts, we bow in homage: in the Yanxi Hall of Lingji Temple, curtains and robes are arranged with dignity, and screens of fine silk stand in solemn rows. The women of the household faithfully observe the rites of womanhood. Lady Zhong was known for her loving virtue, and her deeds were recorded in writing. She was always renowned for her talent and ability, and praised for her moral conduct. She embodied Lady Zhong’s virtues and personally practiced the “Four Teachings” of women: virtue, speech, bearing, and work. Her blessings were bestowed upon the people. Utterly sacred and numinous, gentle and composed, she is a revered lady of the divine clan.

She served her elders and cherished her kin, bringing harmony to the whole hall and joy to everyone. The household’s ranks and relations were ordered, and its rites passed down through generations. Only those who met the requirements of ritual could approach the sacred brazier to pay their respects. With sincere hearts, we bow in homage: in the Hall of Kinship at Lingji Temple, descendants inherit their forebears’ blessings and pass down the family’s good name from generation to generation. The descendants are wise and distinguished, graceful as orchids and lilies. The flourishing virtue and achievements of their ancestors bring comfort, for their descendants still cherish the old traditions. Thus we sing the poem “Gelei,” praising the bonds of mutual support among kin, and celebrate the virtue symbolized by the “Shijiu” (written as “Shisi” in the original). All descendants of the divine clan are dukes and marquises.

The family’s upright traditions endure, its reputation resplendent and its household radiant with honor. A family of dukes and marquises naturally has worthy descendants: this is the fruit of the ancestors’ accumulated virtue and the blessings they bestowed on their heirs. With sincere hearts, we bow in homage: in the Hall of Kinship at Lingji Hall, people are taught to uphold the great principles of human relations and to maintain harmony among the three clans—the paternal, maternal, and marital families. Thus they receive Heaven’s good fortune, enjoy generous stipends, and are granted fiefs. Among relatives, they first draw close to those of the same surname, then extend their care to those of other surnames. They have received the deep affection of General Liu Hong and know to follow the careful, virtuous example of Fu Bi, a distinguished Northern Song minister ennobled as Duke of Zheng. Their renown flourished in their own time, and imperial favor extended to later generations. Those in the divine clan who are close and compassionate toward one another are all dukes and marquises.

The maternal uncle of Weiyang belonged to the mother’s kin. His talents shone brightly like pearls and jade. He also wrote a preface to the Changli Collection, Han Yu’s collected works, and in doing so helped make Li Han’s writings widely known.

With reverent hearts, we bow and entrust our lives: within Yanxi Hall at Lingji Palace, the inner court is orderly in appearance, with clear rules and customs. Though they dwell behind the women’s quarters, they devote themselves to women’s proper duties, gathering water plants such as duckweed and algae, and teaching the virtues of women as their first priority. In matters of propriety, they honor their parents-in-law; in filial devotion, they do not forget their own parents. They are supremely holy and numinous, supremely reverent and compliant: revered divine women, divine wives, and ranks of immortal consorts.

The seven admonitions in the Instructions for Women should all be followed earnestly; one’s parents-in-law should be honored as one’s own parents. Wearing fragrant orchids is like receiving a gift from the gods; diligent in womanly virtue, they conduct themselves with dignity and gentleness. In matters of propriety, they honor their parents-in-law; in filial devotion, they do not forget their own parents. They are supremely holy and numinous, supremely reverent and compliant: revered divine women, divine wives, and ranks of immortal consorts.

With reverent hearts, we bow and entrust our lives: within Lingji Hall and Yanxi Hall, they roam freely among the clouds, amid splendor and beauty like that of the Moon Palace. Their garments and adornments are immaculate and brilliant; they wear robes patterned with osmanthus blossoms and carry themselves with elegance. Bright pearls adorn them, while gold ornaments and kingfisher feathers crown their hair. Beautiful and noble, they are gentle, warm, and radiant. May they reveal the numinous grace of the goddess of Mount Wu and forever become auspicious spirits of this blessed place. They are supremely holy and numinous, free and unrestrained: the sacred consorts of the halls.

Pearl slippers and golden hairpins adorn the palace courtyards. Their bearing is richly beautiful, their feelings profound, their natures gentle and pure. Like the women of old who gathered duckweed from the pools, they undertake the ritual duties of noble households. They are praised not merely for living in the inner palace and receiving imperial favor.

With reverent hearts, we bow and entrust our lives: within Lingji Hall and Yanxi Hall, the light of the sun and moon transforms into souls. The star deity Taiyi oversees and protects childbirth; the star deity Tianyi records those destined to be born. The stars gather their essence, moving the Star of Longevity to appear in dreams; the mountains and rivers nurture numinous grace, rejoicing as the sacred spirit of the Imperial Peak descends. They welcome heavenly qilin and give birth to earthly luan birds. They are supremely holy and numinous, responding to every invocation: the Divine Queen of Taiyi, who oversees births; the Divine Queen of Tianyi, who records births; and the consorts who preside over the various lands.

What does an auspicious dream foretell? It means that, in their joy, they are about to give birth to a son. The beautiful spirit of Ao Peak shines forth with auspicious light. Sons beget grandsons, and grandsons in turn beget descendants; the lineage continues for a hundred generations, the family flourishes, and the Divine Queens and the consorts who preside over the various lands are thereby honored.

A dream of an auspicious sign foretells the joy of having a son. The beautiful numinous energy of Ao Peak, a sacred place where immortals and perfected beings manifest their power, shines forth in a glow of good fortune. A son has a son, and that grandson in turn has children: the family line continues through the generations, flourishing and prospering.

With utmost sincerity, we take refuge in and pay reverence to the deities of the Dragon Head temple courtyard and the sacred realm of Ao Peak. Each of you has a charge and stands among the ranks of heavenly officials. You govern the fortunes of office and rank, as Wenchang measures scholarly achievement and official standing; you govern blessings as well, serving as the sovereign in charge of childbirth. You follow the standards of blessing and virtue set forth in the Hongfan, granting long life, wealth, health, and peace. We respectfully offer this hymn to the gods, praying that the family grow in numbers and prosper for generations, that all enjoy long life, and that all under Heaven celebrate together and receive blessings everywhere. You, deities, are supremely sacred and numinous, answering swiftly, like voices responding to a call. You divide your duties between left and right, and command the perfected divine sovereigns who govern blessings and official fortune.

The Stars of Blessing and Rank appear together among the stars of the Northern Dipper, dividing their duties between left and right and presenting the registers of worthy and able people. A household that has accumulated good deeds through generations may be called a home of exemplary people; its descendants, too, will enjoy blessings and celebrations that continue without end.

With utmost sincerity, we take refuge in and pay reverence to the deities of the Dragon Head temple courtyard and the sacred realm of Ao Peak. You flash with lightning as clouds rise high. Though Heaven does not speak, it displays its anger through the crash of thunder. Earth gives life to the myriad things, and, with rain and dew, enables them to nourish one another. The wondrous workings of fate unfold beyond all prediction; subtle transformations take place where there is neither form nor trace. Your grace extends across the world, nourishing all living beings. You, deities, are supremely sacred and numinous, able to transform things. Among you are the Thunder Duke and Lightning Mother, the Wind Earl and Rain Master, the palace’s Illustrious and Responsive Spirit, the Dragon King who Grants Aid, the Five Directions’ She Altars’ Lords, who govern the local earth altars in each direction, and the Dragon Gods who bring rain. Riding the clouds, the dragon can naturally display its numinous power; the rumble of thunder shakes even places ten thousand li away. The people of the world all hope for a timely, abundant rain, and pray that the gods swiftly bring them recognition and reveal their exceptional talents.

With utmost sincerity, we take refuge in and pay reverence to the sacred gods of the realm of Ao Peak and the Dragon Head temple courtyard. Some of you stand to the left, others to the right: some present the art of Youzhan, the skilled performer of song and dance; others excel in the divinatory art of Guan Lu, famed in ancient times for his skill in prognostication. The deities who oversee food use a variety of precious ingredients, while those who govern music perform melodies of harmony and beauty.

With sincere hearts, we take refuge and pay homage. In the sacred precincts of Aofeng, within the temple courtyard of the Dragon’s Head, the gathered holy beings and spirits stand in solemn ranks on either side. Some offer performances like those of Yuzhan, an ancient entertainer known for song and dance; others are skilled in divination like Guan Lu, a famous ancient occult practitioner. Those in charge of the food prepare a full array of the eight delicacies, while those in charge of music ensure that the melodies conform to the six yang pitch standards among the twelve ancient pitch pipes. The generals commanding the sixteen guards are all capable military leaders, and the three hundred cavalry under their command each possess the bearing of a marquis. Their spiritual power shines forth; their images are fierce and dignified. They are supremely sacred and potent, yet stern and orderly. The entire temple and all its attendant deities radiate awe-inspiring spiritual power.

Through their toil, they brought peace to the state and protected its people. In gratitude, the people honor them in the temple courtyard through the bond of incense offerings. The fame of these generals and ministers endures in the world: even a thousand years later, people still praise their images, calling them extraordinary as qilin.

The assembly steps forward, kneels together, and sincerely repents.

With sincere hearts, we take refuge in the True Lord of Nine Heavens and Numinous Aid, a Daoist deity, and in all the potent immortals in the temple. We entrust our bodies, minds, nature, and life to them. We beseech the sages’ wisdom and compassion: may they extend their blessings widely and bestow their abundant grace upon all. Today, with purified and devout hearts, we make our offerings, take refuge, submit ourselves, and repent for our transgressions. I have heard that calamity and blessing do not come by any fixed path; people bring them upon themselves. As for good and ill fortune…

With utmost sincerity, we take refuge in the mighty and wondrous immortals who dwell in the Hall of Harmony of the True Lord of Numinous Aid of the Nine Heavens. We earnestly ask the holy assembly to show great compassion, spread blessings far and wide, and bestow abundant grace. Today, with hearts purified through fasting, we pray with reverence, turn toward the gods, and repent of our faults.

We have often heard that misfortune and good fortune follow no fixed path: people bring them upon themselves. Good and ill fortune also show signs in advance, like a shadow following the body. Good deeds serve as a warning against wrongdoing, while evil deeds warn us to do good. Those who do good receive the support of the Qi of the Five Phases, and the gods who govern human fate protect them. Those who do evil are enveloped by baleful Qi and watched over by inauspicious stars. The punishments of Heaven’s Dao are difficult to evade, yet the human heart can still discern good from evil.

Now, mindful of all living beings, we should turn our hearts toward the Dao, reach the gods through utmost sincerity, and bow in person before the true deities. First, we lay out our own faults: from past lives through this present one, we have been ashamed of doing wrong yet continued to commit evil; turned away from the right path and followed what was perverse; acted stubbornly and deceitfully, taking advantage of others in times of hardship. We have secretly plotted and cruelly harmed people; become obsessed with profit, rank, and fame, our minds confused, while our thoughts remained fixed on killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, and other evils, sinking into greed, anger, and delusion. In great matters, we have deceived Heaven and Earth; in secret, we have betrayed the gods. We have complained about the heat and cold, and berated the wind and rain. Some have relieved themselves while facing the stars or exposed themselves before the sun and moon; some have sworn by the rainbow or made vows by mountains and seas. Others have damaged temples and shrines and defiled sacred sites, unaware that their bodies, hearts, speech, and intentions were all at fault, and failing to keep to the proper duties of scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants.

We have not honored the Three Treasures—the Daoist objects of reverence: the Dao, the scriptures, and the teachers—and have not practiced the Five Constant Virtues: benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness. We have served others without loyalty and dealt with friends without keeping faith; failed in our filial duty to our parents, turned against our masters, and forgotten their kindness. Though wealthy, we have lacked generosity, valuing possessions above righteousness. We have claimed that offerings are useless and that violence brings no harm; that honoring the gods need not be put into practice, and that words carry no responsibility. We have rebelled against those above us, gloried in fighting, and bullied the poor and weak. We have driven out and harmed the loyal and upright, oppressed the vulnerable and alone, diverted public resources for private gain, and treated others harshly while showing ourselves favor. We have provoked lawsuits and made enemies. Arrogant and cruel without restraint, we have failed to distinguish right from wrong or cultivate ourselves with sincerity.

“Xiao Bian” and “Tang Di” are titles of poems in the Book of Songs; here they lament the breakdown of family bonds: at times, the affection between parent and child is damaged, and at times, the bond between brothers is severed. When the customs of a state decline, satirical poems such as “Gu Feng” arise; when kin turn against one another, poems such as “Jiao Gong” are written. Knowing that our sins have grown grave and numerous, we now stand in reverence before the compassionate gods and repent with deep sorrow.

Who is without fault? When we have erred, we should correct ourselves and remain ever watchful and cautious. The gods do not accept offerings as a matter of course; only sincerity can bring a response. We therefore pray with earnest and heartfelt devotion. We beseech the supremely benevolent gods to protect us, and the Great Dao to show compassion: forgive our past faults and grant blessings in the days to come, so that all regions may rejoice together and all under Heaven receive grace. May peace prevail in the world today, with no disasters or upheavals, and may every kind of blessing and goodness descend. May the old be vigorous and the young strong. We will forever honor the radiant power and virtue of the gods, and we also aspire to devote ourselves to relieving the people’s suffering. With utmost sincerity, we bow our heads twice in homage and offer our thanks.

The Two Perfected Lords of Lingji, enshrined at Lingji Palace.

With single-minded devotion, this disciple bows and gives thanks to the Perfected Lord of Great Grace in the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens. With single-minded devotion, this disciple bows and gives thanks to the Perfected Lord of Great Grace in the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens. With single-minded devotion, this disciple bows and gives thanks to the Perfected Lord, the Sacred Father, Loyal and Martial, Helper and Illuminator. This disciple states these sincere wishes and respectfully begs the sacred compassion to look upon them.

First wish: May the present emperor enjoy long life, with a lifespan equal to Heaven’s, and remain in perpetual spring for ten thousand years.

Second wish: May officials receive salaries and rank; may peace endure throughout the realm, and may good fortune and prosperity come everywhere.

Third wish: May scholars attain wealth, honor, and distinction, be listed in the Celestial Registry, and become ministers and high officials.

Fourth wish: May farmers diligently till the fields and look forward each year to abundant harvests of the five grains. “Three harvests” means bountiful crops.

Fifth wish: May artisans refine their skills, enter the court in service, and hear the Son of Heaven’s commands. “The hundred crafts” refers to artisans in all trades; “Lu Ban’s school” refers to the paths of craftsmanship.

Sixth wish: May the pursuit of wealth prosper, and may those who are wealthy and eminent rival enfeoffed lords.

Seventh wish: May wind and rain be well balanced, and may people throughout the realm celebrate peace.

Eighth wish: May incense offerings and worship flourish for ages, may temples endure for a thousand years, and may the gods’ numinous power shine forth.

Ninth wish: May the Nine Heavens bestow an investiture decree; may those who receive it wear jade pendants, walk with reverent steps, and proceed to the Purple Palace, the sovereign’s residence, to pay homage.

Tenth wish: May all believers in the ten directions take refuge in the Three Treasures—the Dao, the scriptures, and the teachers revered in Daoism—and may everyone uphold them with devotion.

The rites of worship and praise have already been performed, and their merit is complete. All those gathered at the ritual altar now devoutly make their petition once more: We have heard with reverence that even when we act with care and respect, never slackening in our devotion, we are still ashamed to have intruded repeatedly upon you. Now, as we stand before the deities, they seem close at hand, their august presence clear to behold. We remember your kindness and are filled with gratitude; we bow our heads and make our plea.

The deities’ virtue is manifest, and they are called “Manifesting Spirits” and “Radiant Spirits”; their deeds extend widely among all beings, and they are called “Universally Delivering” and “Broadly Relieving.” Like ferries and bridges, the deities help beings escape hardship and bring light to those lost in confusion. Today we establish the “Ritual Altar for Receiving Grace and Praying for Blessings.” In reverence before the deities, we proclaim their wondrous teachings, offer the modest respect of bathing and burning incense, and bow in worshipful contemplation. The deities listen and observe with impartial justice, and our intentions are clear to them. May the sins of past and present lives be washed away, and may wholesome causes be cultivated for this life and those to come. May good conduct endure from beginning to end; may we do no evil and turn away from no good.

Wisdom may reach such heights that even the wise cannot fully comprehend it, while the ignorant find it still harder to understand. The deities impart their teachings so that the people may each find what is fitting for them. When cultivation is complete and merit fulfilled, one may enter the Jade Chamber and Cinnabar Terrace, an immortal realm in Daoist teaching. When one’s vital essences and Qi are abundant and the spirit is upright, one may open the brocade cloud bag of Purple Yang, a symbol of precious Daoist teachings or immortal treasures. May all faithful men and women attain long life, and may the ancestors of countless generations be delivered. May grace also reach all manner of beings in the netherworld, so that they may enter the wondrous Great Vehicle. These are auspicious ties of great importance. Let everyone recite and chant the sacred title of the Celestial Worthy.

The ritual program for the True Lord’s vow is now complete.

Ritual Liturgy of the Star Lamps for the Seven Luminaries of the Celestial Pivot (a star-lamp liturgy arranged in accordance with the motions of the heavens and the celestial bodies of the Seven Luminaries)

Now we burn incense in offering:

To the True Lord of Great Grace and Abundant Blessings, Protector of the Nation and Shelter of the People, the Great Immortal of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, who illuminates the Dao and embodies its virtue, manifests numinous power, universally delivers, and responds wondrously with compassion and kindness through the Cavern Mystery of the Azure Tenuity;

To the True Lord of Great Grace and Abundant Blessings, Benefactor of the Nation and Guardian of the People, the Transcendent of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, who proclaims transformation and supports the teachings, shines with numinous power, broadly relieves, and responds wondrously with benevolence and kindness through supreme brightness, vast calm, deep stillness, and purity;

And to the immortals and multitude of spirit officials within the palace. May they all accept this offering.

We respectfully hear that when the Dragon-Han era—the primordial age of calamity in Daoist lore—opened the registers of the celestial realm, the Qi of Mystery, Origin, and Beginning, the primordial source-Qi in Daoist teaching, thereby divided.

Universal offerings are respectfully presented to the Perfected Lord of Abundant Blessings and Vast Grace, High Illumination and Great Stillness, Deep Serenity and Wondrous Response, Benevolent Aid to the State and Protection of the People, who Transformed the teachings at Aoji and Upholds the Immortals, as well as to the immortals in the palace and all the divine officials.

I respectfully hear that at the beginning of the Dragon-Han era, when Heaven and Earth were first opened, the three original forms of primordial Qi (vital energy) emerged through differentiation. After the beings of Aoji took form, the places of the three realms—Heaven, Earth, and humanity—were established in turn. It is not easy for people to encounter the Great Dao (the Way), and being born in the Central Land is exceedingly rare. People receive Yang Qi and bear Yin Qi; their limbs and bodies are already complete. They should therefore cherish their bodies and preserve their lives, so that the myriad forms of Qi within them may endure. People are always anxious about aging, death, and illness, each burdened by their own worries; they often take pride in growing up and becoming attractive. Yet though people have desires, Heaven favors no one: why are some wealthy and honored while others are poor? Why did Peng Zu live so long, while Yan Hui died young? Rather than be misled by the decree of fate, one should turn inward and seek the answer in oneself.

At that time, the Perfected Lord of Numinous Aid was feasting and wandering in the sacred realm of Jade Clarity, serving the affairs of the sovereign and following the radiance of the Heavenly Dao. He formed a great bond with all living beings and offered this teaching: “I regulate the Five Celestial Bodies; sometimes they wax, sometimes they wane, and their changes are never constant. I set the sun and moon on their courses, so that heat and cold each come in their proper season. Follow the Heavenly Dao, and auspicious prosperity and joy will come; go against it, and danger and calamity will bring sorrow. Only utmost sincerity can move the spirits. Therefore, those who accumulate good deeds will surely leave behind blessings and good fortune.”

Having received the illumination of the spirits, how could we dare forget to show reverence and gratitude? Today, a certain devotee of the Dao respectfully establishes a numinous altar and lays out simple offerings. Following the rites of the Primordial Yang Jade Calendar, they burn incense and recite the scriptures. In accordance with the Lingbao liturgical regulations for Daoist purification rites, they observe the fast and keep the precepts, proclaim the formal procedures for memorial petitions, and light the sacred lamps. They look up at the celestial signs formed by the interwoven courses of the sun, moon, and stars, and contemplate from afar the order of the heavens displayed by the Jade Pivot and Jade Balance, instruments for observing the skies in ancient times.

The orchid-scented lamp wick flares into flame: one can see it burning brightly, but not its gradual rise from a faint glow. The iron basin holds the lamp oil: one can see the level increasing, but not its slow decline. The lamplight shines upward, illuminating the vast expanse of the Thirty-Two Heavens; below, it allows countless thousands of people to behold it and take refuge. Many good deeds arise from the light, and many evil deeds dissolve in it. Bowing again and again, the mind and spirit grow clear and open. From the first offering of incense at the top through the third, the chants ring out in full voice.

We respectfully ask the spirits to look upon us and bestow their gracious light. We further pray that the spirits of the Three Realms descend together, and that ten thousand people worship with reverence. May baleful stars withdraw, leaving the four seasons free of calamity; may auspicious stars arrive at the door and bestow the Five Blessings—good fortune and long life. With bowed heads, we take refuge in the Heavenly Worthy of the True, Wondrous Dao, whose light of De (Virtue and Power) shines forever.

The assembly and others sincerely turn toward and venerate Lingji Palace, a Daoist temple dedicated to Lingji Perfected One and other deities.

The True Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Golden Palace, who illuminates the Dao and embodies De, manifests with numinous power, universally aids and saves, is pure and subtle, profound and mysterious, empty and transcendent, wondrous in response, compassionate and benevolent, protects the state and shelters the people, and bestows abundant blessings and great grace;

the True Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Jade Palace, who proclaims transformation, supports the teachings, is an exalted immortal, manifests numinous power, widely aids and saves, is lofty and bright, expansive and still, deep and clear, wondrous in response, humane and benevolent, assists the state and blesses the people, and bestows abundant blessings and great grace;

together with the immortals of the palace and its divine officials, who guard Daoist temples and carry out divine duties. With solemn care and reverence, we light the sacred lamp of the Seven Luminaries of the Ji Heng, symbolizing the Sun, Moon, and the five planets, and set forth above it the image of the Sun.

We respectfully hear that the Dao precedes the Taiji, the Supreme Ultimate, the source from which the cosmos first takes shape. It is vast and far-reaching, yet subtle and concealed. The Sun is the honored center of all Yang Qi; there is no prayer that cannot be fulfilled through it, and no hidden, shadowed place it cannot illuminate. Its wondrous workings are beyond measure and reveal the power of the numinous. Its numinous might shines with awe-inspiring force, inspiring fear like Zhao Dun. Now we set forth the image of the Sun in order to perform this rite.

Reverently we hear that the Dao existed from the beginning of Taiji (the Supreme Ultimate). It is vast and profound, impossible to see directly; it is subtle and hidden, difficult to perceive. The sun is revered as the source of the many Yang energies, and every wish can be fulfilled through it. There is no dark or secret place beyond its illumination. Its wondrous workings are unfathomable, and what it holds is a numinous power.

The sun’s divine might is awe-inspiring, and people revere it as they revere Zhao Dun. Its radiance shines forth above, and the people look up to it as they honor the Duke of Zhou. Its De (Virtue/Power) is brilliant and magnificent; its integrity is pure and bright, flawless as the moon. The solar carriage is solemn and majestic, its full retinue assembled as it circles the palace of audience. The sun chariot driven by Xihe is likewise solemn and majestic. People set a banquet in the Hall of Dongyang to honor it. The sun releases a boundless radiance, illuminating the three thousand worlds.

Enter my Dharma gate, and you need no longer fear having nowhere to dwell. Follow my Dao teachings, and you can be freed from the hardship of losing your way. When I think of all beings sunk in the world of dust, laboring in vain as they chase shadows, and of everything in this world as fleeting and unreal as hail or dew, I can only lament how swiftly life passes. From now on, turn your gaze inward and illuminate yourself, so that the heart and the Dao may remain bright.

I offer prayers for all: may merchants, whether traveling to trade or selling from home, gain wealth and profit; may those who labor find contentment in farming and earn their livelihood by digging wells. May those skilled in crafts be as exact in their work as the ancients who used the gnomon to measure the sun’s shadow; may those diligent in their duties be as industrious as scholars who replenished their lamps with oil and studied through the night. May readers write works of splendid literary beauty; may those who enter government attain renown and become outstanding figures. Even in old age, may they remain evergreen like the pines and cypresses; even if their light is as faint as a firefly’s, may it grow brighter and receive the blessing of grace.

I offer what little sincerity and reverence I can, and pray that radiant grace may descend. Let the assembled Daoist community respectfully follow the Divine Incantation of the Sun Emperor, spoken by the Most High, bow their heads in refuge, and praise with devotion.

With single-minded refuge and reverence, I pay homage to:

The True Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Golden Palace, Illuminator of the Dao and Expounder of De, Manifesting Spirit, Universally Saving, Pure Subtlety, Cavern Mystery, Transcendent Emptiness, Wondrously Responsive, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, Exalting Blessings and Bestowing Great Grace.

With single-minded refuge and reverence, I pay homage to:

The True Lord of the Nine Heavens’ Jade Palace, Proclaimer of Transformation and Supporter of the Teachings, Supreme Immortal, Illustrious Spirit, Broadly Saving, Lofty and Bright, Vastly Tranquil, Transcendent and Profound, Wondrously Responsive, Benevolent and Kind, Assisting the State and Blessing the People, Exalting Blessings and Bestowing Great Grace.

While reciting the incantation, form the “noon” hand sign, a Daoist mudra, and draw in the Qi of the noon hour. From afar, visualize the True Lord in the Palace of Dongyang and Yuyi, as though present before you.

Facing east, gaze into the distance toward Fusang Palace, the palace of the rising sun, and bow reverently to Yuyi, the sun deity in Daoist belief. The sun’s radiance is clear and brilliant, vast and still. What thoughts could the heart hold? Let me bow toward the golden light, await what comes from Heaven, and envision the deity’s handsome countenance. Inhale the breath of midday and imagine the Perfect Lord in Dongyang Yuyi Palace as if standing before you.

Facing east, gaze into the distance toward Fusang Palace and bow reverently to Yuyi. The sun’s radiance is clear and brilliant, vast and still. What thoughts could the heart hold? Let me bow toward the golden light, await what comes from Heaven, and envision the deity’s handsome countenance. At this moment, Huanghua Jiang the Jade Maiden, an immortal attendant who serves the deity, arrives and descends before the hall. All present sing in response and offer their prayer: May the light of these lamps be dedicated to the Perfect Lord. Scatter flowers in praise. The Celestial Worthy of the Great Sun and Perfect Ultimate.

All the ritual participants present wholeheartedly take refuge in the deities of Lingji Palace:

The Great Immortal of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, Who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De; the Perfect Lord of Manifested Efficacy, Universal Deliverance, Pure Subtlety, Mysterious Mystery, Empty Tranquility, Wondrous Response, Compassionate Grace, Protection of the State and Shelter of the People, Esteemed Blessings, and Vast Benevolence;

The Supreme Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, Who Proclaims Transformation and Supports the Teachings; the Perfect Lord of Revealed Efficacy, Broad Deliverance, Lofty Clarity, Vast Stillness, Deep Tranquility, Wondrous Response, Benevolent Grace, Assistance to the State and Protection of the People, Abundant Blessings, and Vast Benevolence;

as well as the immortals of the palace and all the spirit officials, the celestial guardians and generals.

With care, light the Divine Lamps of the Seven Regulators of the Jade Balance, which symbolize the movements of the heavenly bodies, and above, set out the image of the Moon’s Yin Radiance, symbolizing the moon’s divine seat or likeness.

Hear this with reverence: Tanh Qi, a term in the original referring to the Qi of outer space, dwells within the cosmos, without form or trace. The moon’s essence radiates beautiful light, endowed with both spirit and feeling. When the moon passes the lunar mansion Ji, wind arises; when it leaves the lunar mansion Bi, rain falls. This is the working of Heaven. The deities make these transformations subtle and clear. Passing through the Moon Palace, the Toad Palace, for eighty-three thousand…

The scenery is serene and secluded, and the clear radiance seems almost within one’s grasp. The Crane-Viewing Terrace has stood for fifteen hundred years. Though the perfected sages have long since departed, they seem still close at hand. Liu Yue-shi (Liu Kun, whose courtesy name was Yue-shi) drove back the enemy siege and at last fulfilled his wish to climb a tower and gaze into the distance. Cao Meng-de (Cao Cao) built his hegemony, yet could still play the se and sing. One gathered Jing and Qi and bestowed a heavenly mandate upon the Han dynasty; another poured forth radiance in response to an auspicious sign for the state of Wu. Their names were upright and renowned, and their achievements clear for all to see.

I humbly pray that all sentient beings will not obscure their own numinous clarity or steal another’s radiance, nor become trapped in worldly bonds and lose the brilliance they were born with. Those who magnify the failings of others while concealing their own are bound to leave blemishes behind; those who use words to disguise their faults are bound to sink into confusion. May everyone repent sincerely and rejoice in having encountered the light.

I humbly pray that wild geese gather in the marshes, with no more alarm caused by crows flying in; that roosters crow at dawn throughout the land, and that there be no more troubles like the labored panting of an ox. By pounding the Jade Rabbit’s elixir in the moon, one may gain long life; by gathering the luminous pearl from within the mussel, one may attain abundance. May those seeking office be selected soon, and those arranging marriages at last find the matchmaker beneath the moon. May auspicious stars appear and bring the birth of a bright and gifted child; may the jade axe shape and refine, bringing skill and craftsmanship to perfection. All await the moon’s course and determine the proper hour. Gazing at its light, they feel less carefree than the Gold Star, Taibai, raising a cup to admire the moon.

I ask the Daoist assembly gathered here to follow with care the Great Yin Emperor’s Divine Incantation, spoken by the Most High, to bow and take refuge, and to praise it with devotion.

With one mind, I take refuge and respectfully pay homage:

The True Lord of Great Grace and Abundant Blessings, Loyal and Unfailing, Who Protects the Nation and Shelters the People; the Great Immortal of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, Who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Manifests the Numinous, Extensively Aids All, and Is Pure, Subtle, Cavernous, Mysterious, Unbounded, and Miraculously Responsive.

With one mind, I take refuge and respectfully pay homage:

The True Lord of Great Grace and Abundant Blessings, Loyal and Unfailing, Who Protects the Nation and Shelters the People; the Supreme Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, Who Proclaims Transformation and Supports the Teachings, Reveals the Numinous and Widely Aids All, Is Lofty and Clear, Expansive and Still, Profound and Tranquil, Miraculously Responsive, Benevolent and Generous, and Assists the Nation and Blesses the People; Who Is Cavernous, Mysterious, Unbounded, Miraculously Responsive, and Pure, Subtle, and Compassionate.

With one mind, I take refuge and respectfully pay homage:

The True Lord of Abundant Blessings and Great Grace; the Supreme Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, Who Proclaims Transformation and Supports the Teachings, Reveals the Numinous and Widely Aids All, Is Lofty and Clear, Expansive and Still, Profound and Tranquil, Miraculously Responsive, Benevolent and Generous, and Assists the Nation and Blesses the People; Who Is Cavernous, Mysterious, Unbounded, Miraculously Responsive, and Pure, Subtle, and Compassionate.

As you recite the incantation, roll your fingers, inhale clear Qi, and visualize the True Lord of the Officials of Cavernous Yin and Binding Luminescence (the divine being who governs the Great Yin and the moon’s radiance) standing before you.

Look up in all directions, and one sees only the moon nurturing the subtle essence of Yin. Within the moon is the August Sovereign Taisu, a revered Daoist deity, whose Lady rides in a green carriage. Her radiance shines upon the two poles of Heaven and Earth, while the clear, bright Qi envelops the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing), the three supreme deities revered in Daoism and the realms they inhabit. We sincerely seek the Great Dao, and clouds of five-colored Qi descend from Heaven to welcome us.

The assembly sings in response: May the light of this lamp dedicate its merit to the Perfected Lord. Flowers are scattered. Celestial Venerable of the Perfect Mirror, whose insight penetrates and illuminates all.

The ritual assembly wholeheartedly takes refuge in and dedicates itself to the Nine Heavens’ Golden Palace and Jade Palace within the Lingji Palace, as well as to all the immortals and numinous officers residing there. We respectfully light the Seven Luminaries Lamp of the Celestial Pivot, which symbolizes the movements of the sun, moon, and five planets. Upon the lamp we arrange the stellar image of the Eastern Wood Virtue, the Year Star (Jupiter).

We respectfully declare: The Dao-heart is one, subtle and profound, beyond words. The Wood deity governs benevolence; its wondrous power lies in nurturing and transforming the myriad things, allowing life to flourish without end. In the seasons, it corresponds to spring, when the spring breeze makes all things grow; in virtue, it corresponds to “Origin,” like primordial Qi bringing all things to life. All beings receive its grace as it sustains their growth, yet still need the force that trims and shapes them. We look up to the high mountains: reverence for benevolence is the same wherever one may be.

Xie Shi received the aid of Wood Virtue and revealed the numinous signs of Gong Mountain; the Duke of Zhou received the aid of Wood Virtue and cleared his name of slander concerning Jinmeng. Yi Yin, who harmonized the soup and assisted the king, was eventually entrusted with high office after someone appeared to him in a dream, coming from the fields. Tang of Shang, who encountered a woman from the state of Xin while gathering mulberry leaves, likewise received the aid of a spirit’s descent. Their achievements shone in their own time, and their fame has been handed down to later generations.

Consider all living beings: they settle into their allotted place and are content with the shelter they receive, yet often repay kindness with ingratitude. Even those of ordinary and unpromising nature, like the useless trees chu and li, dull-witted and lacking refinement, can still be put to use: willow wood may serve in sacrifice, and wooden cups and trays have their purpose. Timber must be straightened against an ink line to become true; without rules and measures, it is difficult to fashion it into a useful object.

May those who hold office be substantial and refined like the pu and yu trees; may those who hear lawsuits govern with the benevolence of the Earl of Shao beneath the sweet pear tree. May people follow the way of the bridge and catalpa trees, a tale of mutual respect between father and son, so that fathers are loving and children filial. May they recite the “Flowers and Calyxes,” a poem that stands for harmony among brothers, so that elder brothers are caring and younger brothers respectful. May the young members of each household stand out like the Sage’s Younger Brother and grow upright like the five branches of the cassia tree. May they befriend those who set aside differences in age, with an affection enduring like a thousand-year-old pine. When peach blossoms bloom, may households enjoy harmony; in autumn, may they present fruit in reverence for their ancestors and kin.

We offer a few fresh jujubes as a token of respect; this is not an imitation of the grand ceremony of burning firewood in sacrifice to Heaven. We ask the ritual assembly to follow the divine incantation of the Star Lord of Wood Virtue as spoken by the Most High, bow their heads, take refuge, and praise with reverence.

With wholehearted devotion, take refuge in and pay homage to the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, the golden celestial palace among the Nine Heavens.

With wholehearted devotion, take refuge in and pay homage to the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, the jade celestial palace among the Nine Heavens.

While chanting the spell, form the Yin-Hai hand seal, recite the sacred spell of the Yin-Hai Star Lords, bow your head in taking refuge, and offer praise with sincere devotion.

With wholehearted devotion, take refuge in and pay homage to the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens.

With wholehearted devotion, take refuge in and pay homage to the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

While chanting the spell, form the Yin-Hai hand seal and draw in the Qi of Yin and Hai. Visualize the official Perfected Lord of the azure sky of Qinghua as if standing right before you.

The Year Star, Jupiter, rides upon the Qi of Wood’s virtue and travels, casting its light across the East. Its radiance nourishes the lofty heavens; five colors mingle in brilliant splendor. Seeking flowers, we sing with swelling voices; scooping up water, we chant of the mushroom chamber. After a time of repeated prayers and invocations, blessings will naturally endure. All chant together: May the merit of this lamp’s light be dedicated to the Perfected Lord. Scatter flowers in reverence. Celestial Worthy of Wondrous Wisdom and Perfect Radiance.

The assembly of Daoist ritualists, with wholehearted devotion, entrusts itself to the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, and all the immortals and divine officials within Lingji Temple. With due care, they light the Seven Luminaries Lamp of the Celestial Mechanism, symbolizing the movements of the sun, moon, and five planets, and set above it the stellar image of the Southern Fire Virtue Star, Yinghuo (Mars).

I respectfully hear that Fire embodies the virtue of the South and that its authority is held by the Flame Emperor, the ancient god of fire and deity of the South. This deity rules over the maritime frontier, and the Perfected Lord bestowed upon him an honored title. His soul was forged from jade essence, and his body refined from golden liquid. He studied texts beyond the mortal world and did good deeds as brilliantly as light and shadow appearing. Following the changes of the seasons, he vowed to save all people, leading those sunk in suffering to a place of safety. He took pity on worldly people enduring torment and enabled them to turn toward lives filled with song and joy.

Through diligent governance, he brought forth the appearance of Liuwu, the auspicious bird. By resisting calamity and dispelling disasters, he turned the winds of Huilu, the god of fire, to still their harm. His renown ushered in brightness, and his numinous power shone forth. Yet the desires of living beings have not ebbed, and their understanding of the Dao remains unclear. If they curry favor with the powerful, they are bound to flatter them; if they offer counsel, how could they stoop to treachery and deceit, spreading harm?

Pouring boiling water onto boiling water to stop it from seething is truly foolish. To wait until the fire has burned out before cleaning up may be too late. Fortunately, there is the warning to “bend the chimney and move the firewood”—change the chimney’s course and shift the fuel to prevent a fire. We should take precautions in advance and seize the fleeting moment, like a snowflake on a blazing furnace, to awaken in time. Anxiety is like being scorched by smoke and fire; who could endure such heat for long? Once the blaze has spread into a disaster, how can we expect to put it out easily? And how could we let fine jade burn along with everything else?

May weapons be laid aside and the alarms of beacon fires cease forever. May the people be relieved of hardship, without further need for moxibustion to treat their suffering. May those who earn their living by cooking food be able to nourish life, and may those who cut wood and tend fires each pursue their work in peace. Heaven witnesses a heart wholly sincere. Thus, sincerity brings clarity, and clarity can return to sincerity. Good deeds summon many kinds of auspiciousness, bringing you prosperity and flourishing fortune.

A single stick of incense offered from the heart can reach the heavenly realm. When the sacred lamp is lit three times, numinous light appears upon the altar. Those gathered to receive the rite respectfully invite the Incantation of the Star Lord of Fire Virtue, spoken by the Most High. They bow their heads, take refuge, and offer praise and homage.

With utmost sincerity, I take refuge and pay homage to the Golden Gate of the Nine Heavens.

With utmost sincerity, I take refuge and pay homage to the Jade Gate of the Nine Heavens.

Make the hand signs for Mao and Xu and recite the “Mao-Xu Text,” drawing in the Qi of Mao and Xu. Visualize the palace of fiery refinement at Zhuling, the Daoist realm of immortal fire, as though the True Lord were standing before you. Angular rays of light appear and transform into dragons and phoenixes; their majestic radiance shines in all ten directions.

The cinnabar-colored light illuminates the five night watches, and crimson flames shine across three directions. The numinous light is clear and bright, revealing upright energy. Swords and halberds stand arrayed, signifying command over troops. The ominous stars known as Canqiang, Bei, and Hui should all be destroyed as they draw near, daring not to block the way.

Everyone sings in unison, “May this lamplight be dedicated to the True Lord.” Flowers are then scattered. They recite again, “Heavenly Worthy of the Radiant Torch of Wisdom.” The ritual assembly together sincerely takes refuge in the Nine Heavens Golden Palace and the Nine Heavens Jade Palace of Lingji Temple, names for palaces in the Daoist heavens.

In the hall, we respectfully invite the immortals and the assembled spirit officials, and carefully light the Seven Governors’ lamps of the Ji Heng constellation, which symbolize the sun, moon, and five planets. The lamps are arranged according to the position of the central Earth Virtue star, Zhenxing, or Saturn.

We respectfully hear that the ancients established altars to the soil deity to honor the land, in keeping with the principles of the earth. The virtue of the spirits accords with the Way of Heaven. Auspicious writing appeared on a stone and secretly aided the Tang dynasty; a clod of earth in the wilderness revealed an omen of good fortune, and the spirits once supported the Jin dynasty. If the state of Qin could acquire Shu, then the strange signs that appeared around the Baogu Pass would be no surprise. Since the Liu family had already annexed the Huan family, could the dream of the Xianbei people really have been mere chance?

The filial son Zong used this power to bury his father, revealing merit accumulated in secret. The Iron-Wheel King used it to give alms and bring karmic consequences to fruition. Hong Gui’s boat could be borrowed to help carry out a task; Xu Jiang’s virtuous governance has been handed down through the ages. Lei Huan’s precious sword could add luster to this; the sacred traces at Huayin, though a thousand years old, still seem to lie before our eyes.

Someone once steeped sand in wine and passed on to Prefect Gao a method for curing illness. Another person made pills from dust and obtained from an immortal a formula for saving lives. Huang Shangde’s efficacy was wondrous and renowned, making the spirits’ awe-inspiring virtue plain to see.

When we consider that all living beings scramble to survive like ants, and remain confined to their lot like insects on a wall, with many evil deeds and few good ones, could a lack of even one basket of earth not cause the whole endeavor to fail at the last moment? Even the Thus Come One, who made the deeds of ages past manifest, could not avoid taking form among the myriad things of the world. Could the dung that calms unrest and drives away malign spirits truly be useless? Is earth, simply because it is filthy, to be cast aside?

From now on, we shall follow the right path. How could we fail to raise our reverence as high as a wall and serve with respect? May Mount Hua gather vital energy, so that scholars are born wise and perceptive; may its worth be equal to gold, so that merchants prosper in trade and grow wealthy.

A craft must be mastered before an artisan can earn a living by skill; when the seasons turn and the waters flow, farmers labor diligently in the fields. Here we briefly present the rites of music and ceremony with bells, chimes, and drums. We offer flowers with pure water, ashamed that we have no Qinghua—blue-green blossoms or precious offerings—to present. May the assembled ritual community follow the divine spell of the Lord of the Earthly Virtue Star, transmitted by the Most High, bow their heads in refuge, and praise with reverence.

With sincere hearts, we take refuge in and pay homage to the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens.

With sincere hearts, we take refuge in and pay homage to the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

Recite the divine spell of the Lord of the Nianzǐ Star; bow your heads in refuge, and praise with reverence.

With sincere hearts, we take refuge in and pay homage to the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens.

With sincere hearts, we take refuge in and pay homage to the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

As you recite the spell, form the Zi-Chou hand gesture, drawing in the Qi of the Zi and Chou hours. Visualize the Perfected Lord in the palace of the primordial Qi at the center of Yellow as though standing before you.

Above the lofty heavens, the Qi of the two Earthly Stems, Wu and Ji, gathers and forms a talisman; the earth rises up, reaching to the highest heavens. Among the Five Phases, the honored hidden luminary moves in its course; above the Nine Heavens, its radiance appears. Gan De and Shi Shen, ancient astronomers, calculated the stars’ appearances, disappearances, and movements; Tao Hongjing and others explored the subtle and far-reaching signs of the heavens. The High Immortal descends with blessings, moistening all like rain and dew. We bow low in prostration, and Heaven and Earth tremble in response. In harmonious voices, we praise: May this lamplight be dedicated to the Perfected Lord. Scatter flowers. We pay homage to the Celestial Worthy of Radiant Spiritual Light.

With sincere hearts, the ritual community entrusts its life to the Golden Palace and Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens within Lingji Palace, to the palace’s immortals, and to all the divine officers. We respectfully light the Seven Luminaries of the Ji-Heng lamp rite, symbolizing the observation and courses of the sun, moon, and five planets, and arrange above us the image of the Metal Virtue of the West, the Taibai Star. We declare with reverence: Metal Qi gives birth to the essence of the Taibai Star, which manifests as the asterisms of the West. Its divine rank is among the immortals of Highest Clarity, and it takes form as the Northern Dipper. Its name endures in the Golden Palace and Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

The immortals and the assembled spirit officials in the palace carefully kindle the “Seven Luminaries Lamp of the Pivot and Balance,” a sacred lamp symbolizing the movements of the celestial bodies, including the sun, moon, and five planets. Above, they arrange the astral image of the Virtue of Metal in the West and the Star Lord of Great White.

With reverence, we say: The Virtue of Metal gave birth to the essence and Qi of the Star of Great White, and the West has its own symbol. The Star Lord of Great White holds rank among the immortals of the Upper Clarity. His manifested form corresponds to the Northern Dipper. His writings have long been celebrated on Mount Tiantai, and their lineage comes from Lishui. His poems and hymns ring with graceful beauty; his name is engraved on bronze bells and ritual vessels, and his character is upright and unyielding. Li Shaojun drew on the power of the Virtue of Metal to refine elixirs, and Fu Yue of the Shang dynasty used it as a whetstone. As a treasure, the Virtue of Metal is truly worth cherishing; as a material for objects, it must never be taken lightly. The more we look up to it, the higher it seems; the more we study it, the more solid it appears. Its patterns are clear, and its inner principle is whole and complete.

When we think of all living beings, we are ashamed that we lack sincerity, and in our daily lives we admire the virtue of Yang Zhen. We often lament our own inadequacy and can only envy Tao Zhugong’s wealth. If we can now mend our ways, we truly depend on the spirits to shape and instruct us. We respectfully pray that the teachings of the scriptures will not be abandoned, and that people may be fortunate enough to receive a full chest of instruction; that the spirit of the writings will not be lost, and that words with weight and resonance may still be heard. May words be put into practice and reputations be established; may all keep their promises like the people of Chu and be as faithful as Ji Bu. The sages look up to the Dao of Heaven, and the worthy look up to the sages. Was Yan Hui the only one among Confucius’s disciples? We rejoice in receiving a chest full of teachings, and pray that the writings will endure and their words remain forceful and resonant; may people keep their word and live up to their names, honoring promises like Ji Bu. May the worthy follow the sages, and the sages model themselves on the Dao of Heaven.

Ashamed that we have no precious Hongbao to present, we have prepared only a modest wine vessel as an offering. We ask the assembled ritual community to follow the divine incantation for the Star Lord of the Virtue of Metal as spoken by the Most High: bow your heads, take refuge, and praise with reverence.

With focused hearts, we take refuge, believe, and pay homage:

The Golden Gate of the Nine Heavens.

With focused hearts, we take refuge, believe, and pay homage:

The Jade Gate of the Nine Heavens.

As you form the incantation mudra, pinch the positions of Chen and You to gather the Qi of the Chen and You hours. Visualize the Perfected Lord in the Palace of Pure Spirit in the Golden Heaven, as though he stood before you.

The Star of Great White rises above the clear Celestial River, its frosty radiance soaring and reflecting a pure white brilliance. Its body appears serenely, surrounded by auspicious light, bright as the Morning Star. Its blade-like brilliance towers high and can repel invaders; its gentle luster often brings weapons to rest. In tracing the cycles of Heaven’s mandate, it accords with the Dao and can therefore endure forever. All join their voices in prayer: may the light of this sacred lamp be directed back to the Perfected Lord of Great White. Then scatter flowers and praise the “Heavenly Worthy of Nurturing the Luminous True and the Pure.”

The ritual community devoutly gives its life in homage to the spirits dwelling in the Palace of Lingji:

The Golden Gate of the Nine Heavens,

The Jade Gate of the Nine Heavens.

The immortals in the palace and the assembled spirit officials carefully light the “Seven Luminaries Lamp of the Armillary Sphere,” a ritual lamp symbolizing the sun, moon, and five planets, and arrange above it the celestial image of Chenxing, the star that embodies the northern virtue of Water—that is, Mercury. Reverently we say: the spirit of Water is called Xuanming. Water’s source is deep and far-reaching, and its currents flow without end. The spirit is like water beneath the earth: there is nowhere it cannot reach, nowhere it cannot pass. Water’s force is vast and surging, beyond words; its depths are unfathomable, truly impossible to investigate.

In its benevolence, Water gives fish and giant turtles a place to dwell; in its might, it can reveal the divine power of dragons. It once raised flying sand and sent waves surging, bringing forth the wondrous vision of the “dream of the Three Mountains.” It can also raise clouds and send rain, which is why people honor the shrines of the Four Rivers. In the depth of winter, crossing the Tuo River over ice—how wondrous were Wang Ba’s words! In heavy snow, Li Su pacified Huai Xi and Cai Zhou; surely his achievement received Heaven’s aid.

All living beings receive Water’s grace as it nourishes the myriad things. We therefore respectfully pray for the Water spirit’s protection. We reflect that some beings are like those who slake their thirst with water from a forbidden spring: insatiably greedy and having lost their proper way. Others are like the turbid Wei River, flowing on and on as filth gathers and stinks. Living beings should wash away defilement and no longer sink into indulgence.

We respectfully pray that the government be stable and peaceful, and that pearls and treasures return to Hepu, an ancient place famed for its pearls. May talented people flourish, and may journeys across the great river by boat be safe. May the mulberries and fruit in the woods by the school ripen and be gathered early. Once the treasured sword from the marsh has been sold, may cattle be bought and raised. May sources of wealth and profit grow deep and abundant; may the people, already prosperous, become more prosperous still. May descendants continue to flourish, and may the families that accumulate De have heirs who rise to distinction. May benevolence spread far and blessings grow deep.

We offer this small ritual with a sense that our gift is as scant as water gathered in an animal’s hoofprint. All those taking part in the rite respectfully follow the divine incantation of the Star Lord of Water Virtue transmitted by the Most High, bowing their heads in refuge and offering devout praise.

With undivided mind, we take refuge in and sincerely pay homage to the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens.

With undivided mind, we take refuge in and sincerely pay homage to the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens.

Silently recite the incantation of the “Si-Shen Text,” drawing in the Qi from the Si and Shen directions. Visualize the Perfected Lord of the Palace of Mysterious Spirit and Great De appearing as if right before you.

The talismans gather Qi from the Five Directions—how wondrous! In a hazy vision, it seems the true gate has appeared. The Chou position rises steeply and high; in the Ren and Gui directions dwells the Lord of Grottoes and Spirits. Divine light spreads out and gathers into a clear, pure radiance. The Perfected Lord beholds and receives this offering, entering the practitioner’s visualization. The immortals begin to sing, soon to dance in the Jade Palace.

Silently recite the incantation of the “Si-Shen Text,” drawing in the Qi from the Si and Shen directions. Visualize the Perfected Lord of the Palace of Mysterious Spirit and Great De appearing as if right before you.

The talismans gather Qi from the Five Directions—how wondrous! In a hazy vision, it seems the true gate has appeared. The Chou position rises steeply and high; in the Ren and Gui directions dwells the Lord of Grottoes and Spirits. Divine light spreads out and gathers into a clear, pure radiance. The Perfected Lord beholds and receives this offering, entering the practitioner’s visualization. The immortals begin to sing and dance in the ritual arena; after a long while, they descend to the Golden Heaven. The assembly responds, “May the merit of this lamp’s radiance be dedicated to the Perfected Lord.” They then scatter flowers and praise the Celestial Worthy of Universal Illumination through Dragon De.

Recite the scripture and incantation.

The merit from lighting the lamps earlier is now complete. We respectfully declare: by observing the celestial signs and examining human affairs, the future may be foreseen; by bringing order to human affairs and aligning them with the celestial signs, good fortune and success will follow. This requires the illumination of divine lamps and the proclamation of the teachings in accordance with the liturgical texts. We now dedicate this merit to the Perfected Lord and respectfully pray for the blessings of the spirits. May the Perfected Lord’s efficacy become ever more manifest from this day onward.

We respectfully pray: may the stars gather at Kui, ushering in anew an age of flourishing literary culture; may radiance dwell within the jade disc, restoring the simplicity of ancient ways. May those above discern Heaven’s intent, and those below fulfill the people’s hopes. We further pray that after the lamps are lit, the Five Planets move smoothly and the sun and moon shine more brightly; that the four seasons of cold and heat remain true to their appointed times, bringing the people long life and good health; and that rain and sunshine come in due season, ensuring a bountiful harvest of the hundred grains. May all living beings receive the nourishment of transformation. We invite the assembly to use this merit to form a bond of goodness with the upper realm. Then recite:

Celestial Worthy of the Three Pure Ones and Two Realms; Celestial Worthy of Blessings Bestowed by the Nine Heavens;

Celestial Worthy of the Numinous Treasure of the Ten Directions; inconceivable merit.

The Liturgy of the Star Lamps of the Seven Governors and the Pivot and Balance is now complete.

Secret Canon of the Immortal Consort

Enter the ritual arena.

Perform the Steps of Emptiness and recite: “Celestial Worthy of Blessings Bestowed by Heaven; Celestial Worthy of the Numinous Treasure of the Ten Directions; inconceivable merit.”

The Liturgy of the Star Lamps of the Seven Governors and the Pivot and Balance is now complete.

Secret Canon of the Immortal Consort

Enter the ritual arena.

Perform the Steps of Emptiness.

As primordial chaos first opened, Yin and Yang brought forth the myriad things. The Nine Heavens accomplished the transformation of the Dao, bringing peace to the nations beneath Heaven. The throne descends into the golden hall; rosy clouds and a jeweled crown shine above the jade pavilion. The myriad Perfected Ones pay homage where the Emperor resides; flying he flowers and colored buds store their roots.

Incense smoke curls upward, forming auspicious cloud patterns, while propitious energy gathers in the air. The disciple gazes up toward the blue heavens to express sincere devotion, then faces the Purple Clarity—the celestial realm—to bow and pay respects. Reverently, the disciple offers incense of the Dao, incense of De, incense of Wuwei, incense of Wuwei and purity, incense of purity and naturalness, wondrous incense of the Grotto of Truth, numinous incense of the Numinous Treasure, and incense that transcends the Three Realms. The incense fills jade towers and palaces, drifting out to the celestial realms. With a devout heart, the disciple respectfully petitions and makes offerings to the Supreme Empress and Primordial Sovereign, Mother of the Dao of the Nine Heavens; the Empress and Sovereign of the Earth, who receives Heaven’s mandate and follows its model; the Empress and Sovereign of the Eight Poles, Holy Mother of the Benevolent Abode who governs the rites; and the Eastern Pole’s Holy Mother, Protector of Life and Nurturer.

The Supreme Empress of the Dao Mother of the Nine Heavens; the Empress Houtu, Sovereign Earth Deity, who receives Heaven’s mandate and brings it to fruition; the Empress of the Eight Extremities, Holy Mother who governs the teachings and benevolently shelters; the Azure-Robed Empress, Holy Mother who protects life at the Eastern Pole; the Flame-Radiant Empress, Holy Mother who nurtures life at the Southern Pole; the Golden-Radiant Empress, Holy Mother who investigates and corrects wrongdoing throughout the Eight Extremities; the Mysterious-Truth Empress, Holy Mother who presides over the great assembly in the Great Luo Heaven; the Demon-Subduing Empress, Holy Mother who inspects and adjudicates by order of the Nine Heavens; and the Six-Powers Empress, Holy Mother Mingyu Tonggong, Earth Goddess who governs Yanfuti, the human world.

Also included are the Benevolence-and-Virtue Consort, who opens, transforms, nurtures, and gives life in the Nine Heavens; the Consort Wang; the Azure-Virtue Consort; the Consort Wan; the Loyalty-and-Virtue Consort, who opens and transforms in the Nine Heavens; the Consort Yan; the Immortal Consort of Lady of the State of Jing, who is compliant, helpful, benevolent, kind, and responsive; the Immortal Consort of Lady of the State of Wei, who is virtuous, helpful, compassionate, gracious, respectful, and serene; the Immortal Consort of the Holy Mother of the Hall of Kinship, who is benevolent, long-lived, refined, and kind; the Immortal Consort of the Tang King’s Queen, Mingxiao; the Immortal Consort of the Hong King’s Queen, Renci; the Immortal Consort of the E King’s Queen, Shunyi; the Immortal Consort of the Guangling King’s Queen, Shanqing; and the Holy Maidens Chongyi and Mingyi.

There are also the Holy Ladies and Madams Shan Yi, Renrou, Huishun, Zhaoyi, Shungong, Mingzhe, Gongyi, Jingyi, Zhaomu, and Cixiao; the Inner Court Madams Shuncheng, Zhaohua, Ronghua, Xiurong, Xiuyi, and Zhaoyi; and the ranked Madams and Noblewomen serving as directors of the inner court, women’s work, silk and hemp, stores of rush mats, curtains and furnishings, and revenue administration, as well as women officials, female scribes, female ritual officiants, and female attendants.

Also included are the Celestial One who bestows births, the Divine Empress; the Great One who oversees births, the Auspicious Empress; the Lady Chancellor who administers official rank and destiny; the Madams who guard the fetus and protect the birthing chamber, and who preserve pregnancy and safeguard life; the Left and Right Madams of Compassionate Instruction; the Madams who protect and transmit; the Left and Right Madams who oversee the assembly; the Madams who hold seals in the various palaces; and the Madams who carry, nurse, and raise infants, together with the midwives who assist their rebirth and transformation. The Madams in the eastern and western rows of the Hall of Joyful Birth are listed as well, along with the Midwife Officials Wangsheng, who bestow blessings, rank, and longevity; the Midwife Official who presides over judgment and dispatch; and the Midwife Official who guards the fetus and protects the birthing chamber. The seven thousand disciples in the Queen Mother’s palace receive investiture beside the waters. Other titles include Lady Chen Fifteen of Guangfu and the midwives of the Thirty-Six Palaces.

This passage chiefly lists female deities, Madams, and divine offices responsible for birth, protecting pregnancy, childbirth, and infant care. “Bestowing births” and “overseeing births” refer to offices that govern the arrival of children and protect those giving birth. The original repeats some names; they are interpreted here according to their titles.

I also reflect that what is sacred and beyond human understanding is called “spirit.” When people make a request, the spirit responds accordingly, and even today we continue to receive its blessings. How could we forget? Now that we have been able to bring about such a fortunate occasion, I dare not disobey the will of the Lord of Heaven.

Your servant is overwhelmed with awe, bows his head, and prostrates himself twice, respectfully listening: The Dao, without form or image, is the subtle essence of the Great Way. The Yellow Emperor Xuanyuan opened its key and its gate; the Most High Lord Lao passed down the torch, continuing the lineage of the Dao. The Dao possesses De (Virtue/Power) yet does not claim it as its own. Clear and still, empty and void, it is wondrous and unfathomable. It is silent, without a fixed origin. Profound beyond profundity, vast and open, it pervades all things; amid their ceaseless birth and transformation, its mysteries are at work. The Dao moves through every quarter of Heaven and Earth without pause. It governs all things and leaves none beyond its reach. Its grandeur is supreme, its achievements without equal, and its awe inspiring power beyond words.

Your servant reflects that he has devoted himself wholeheartedly to seeking the Dao, yet his abilities are no better than those of an ordinary person. I now lay before you what is in my heart and earnestly ask that it be conveyed upward. May I carry out my duties with reverence and not offend the majesty of Heaven. I further reflect that those appointed to preside over the purification rites serve the spirits with all their devotion and pray for their protection. Their efficacy is therefore made manifest under the title of a shrine of blessing, and they have received distinguished honorific titles. Their reputation is renowned and their numinous power clear; their palaces and temples are solemn and majestic. Even in their native villages, they should be reverently worshipped, with offerings such as water plants presented in sacrifice.

This is the auspicious morning of the Zhongyuan Festival, when blessings gather, and also the birthday of the High Minister, a revered spirit or divine being. Heaven and Earth show signs of good fortune, and joy spreads through the villages. At the midpoint of the month, let the hymn celebrating Mount Song’s gift of birth to Shen Bo be sung. May the spirit’s life endure as long as Heaven, and may we join in expressing the sincere wish for long life offered by the people of Huafeng.

This is because we have the good fortune to honor the august Jade Emperor, the Lord of Heaven, whose fundamental charge is to govern the Ten Directions. Over billions of kalpas, he has established a vast and mighty achievement; far and near alike lie within the radiance of his light. Among all living beings in the nine provinces who possess blood and breath, there is none who does not honor and revere him. Your servant lays bare his heart and respectfully declares: I live in the dusty world, humble and limited in understanding, and keep myself cautious day and night. Ashamed of my ignorance, I dare not claim to have grasped the will of Heaven above. I can only purify myself through fasting and bathing, and reverently serve the Lord of Heaven. Facing the celestial realm, I look up in reverence to the spirits, for they are wise, perceptive, just, and upright. Your servant stands devoutly before the divine seat, as if parting the clouds to see the sun, and as cautiously as one standing at the edge of an abyss or walking on thin ice.

I earnestly ask the Lord of Heaven to protect us continually, even without manifesting voice or sign, and to watch over us continually, even without revealing his presence. May the spirits bestow their protection, so that the people may prosper, live in abundance, and enjoy long and peaceful lives; may their blessings be granted to all. Your servant looks up toward the heavenly countenance and reverently serves the sacred and wise. The depth of my sincerity is truly beyond words.

We respectfully invite the assembled immortals of the Official Three Yuan, the various Lady Officials, all the immortals present at the ritual altar, the City God’s wives of the prefecture and county, the local Lady, the blessing-bestowing Lady who presides over the temples of Jinao, all the Lady Officials belonging to this altar, the incense officials of the Three Realms, and the officials on duty. By means of this true incense, may you all partake of this offering.

The incense gives off a radiance like jade flowers; purple Qi gathers into smoke, and clouds of incense fill the air, reaching the Ninth Heaven. We pray that the Golden Boy who attends the incense convey our words, and the Jade Maiden who scatters flowers carry our intentions. May they open a formal petition for a certain person, so that all that is sought may be fulfilled. We respectfully lay bare our intentions and pray for compassionate protection, that blessings may extend to all the people.

Now the ritual ground is opened for the Daoist service. The formal petition is presented, bows are made, and we take refuge in the boundless Great Dao.

Chanting the Dao

All those at the ritual ground, each focusing their thoughts, take refuge together in the Three Treasures of Daoism—the Dao, the scriptures, and the teachers—and recite the corresponding liturgical texts.

Cold Altar

Next, recite liturgical texts beginning “The Most True Curtain, and so forth,” “The Spell for Contending with Heaven and Earth, and so forth,” and “The Mysterious Void within the Cavern, and so forth.” The original uses “and so forth” to omit the specific spells.

Invocation

Invoke the Primordial Lady Who Cleanses Impurity with Flame.

Kneeling before the Incense Burner

All kneel before the incense burner and recite “The Dao is learned through the heart, and so forth,” followed by the Five Stars Spell, praying for the protection of the five stars as they shine upon the world.

The incense burner is then activated, and the ritual drum is raised and beaten twenty-four times. The drumbeat begins or advances the ritual.

The Most High Lord Lao, Primordial Origin of the Three Qi of the Mysterious Origin of the Three Heavens, one of the highest deities revered in Daoism, summons the Three-and-Five Merit Officers within our bodies, divine functionaries who convey memorials; the left and right incense-official messengers; the left and right courier dragon-riders who bear incense; the golden boys who attend the incense; the jade maidens who transmit words and scatter flowers; and the direct talisman officers and day-on-duty officials and generals of the Five Directions, twenty-six of each kind. All the divine functionaries who emerge in response to the summons must conduct themselves with solemn reverence. Then report to the true officials and proper deities of the local land and district, who govern this place.

I now burn incense and perform the Dao rite, carefully submitting a memorial concerning a certain person and matter. The matters I sincerely present in my heart have all been set out in detail in the memorial. I now respectfully submit this petition, praying that the upright, life-giving Qi of the Most High and the Ten Directions—originating from the true deities of the Ten Directions—descend and flow into our bodies, so that the matters in my petition may be conveyed swiftly and presented directly before the throne of the Supreme Empress Primordial Lady, the Dao Mother of the Nine Heavens.

Announce the ritual rank.

The qualified officiant respectfully proceeds with this invocation.

The Empress and Sovereign Mother of the Nine Heavens, Supreme Emperor and Empress: Their sacred titles are as listed above. Reverently, we say that after Heaven, Earth, and humanity first divided into the Three Powers, humanity came to stand between Heaven and Earth. The assembled sages and perfected beings each took charge of their appointed duties, managing on behalf of the Heavenly Emperor and Empress the registers of the growth and transformation of all things. Human beings are the most precious, and the duties entrusted to them are especially honored.

Nurturing the hun and po souls and refining the physical form were first overseen by the Spirit of Life Bestowed from the South Pole. Thereafter, the duties of honoring good deeds and punishing evil ones were assigned to divine officials in the Heavenly Palace. We revere the thirty-six honored deities, who in truth govern the lifespans of countless beings. A person’s wealth or poverty, rank or low station, is allotted from the very beginning of gestation; the length of one’s life, too, is in the hands of the honored deities. They carry out the commands of the Celestial Court—the heavenly agency that oversees divine offices and registers—and respond to the prayers of descendants in the human world.

A person’s wisdom and prosperity must come from a family that has accumulated good deeds. Early death, poverty, and lowly circumstances are retribution for accumulated faults. The honored deities discern good and evil with the impartiality of a balance, overlooking nothing, however slight. At the mere arising of an intent to take refuge, one will surely come under the clear witness of the hundred deities.

Now there are people with prayers to make. They observe the rites with reverence and bow in sincere devotion. They specially establish an offering altar and perform a Zhaijiao purification ritual, giving their whole hearts to reverence and respect. They entrust their lives to the thirty-six Emperors and Empresses in Heaven, as well as to the Immortal Consort of Numinous Aid and the perfected spirits of the inner attendants. We beseech the deities to ride clouds and cranes, set their retinue in order, and descend here; to ride phoenixes through the air and answer the earnest prayers of mortals. The ritual assembly, with sincere hearts, entrusts itself to them and respectfully invites them.

All the immortals from the inner and outer palaces invited earlier have now descended. We ask you all to arrange the immortal ranks and respectfully welcome the divine procession. I humbly submit this petition:

May the Earth King, Bright King, Unified Vast Holy Mother, and Empress of the Six Penetrations, who govern the world of Jambudvipa, mercifully descend to the throne.

Holy Mother of the Nine Heavens, Empress Who Directs and Inspects and Subdues Demons;

Holy Mother of the Heavenly Register of the Celestial Net, Jade Perfected Empress;

Holy Mother Who Inspects and Corrects the Eight Extremities, Golden Radiance Empress;

Holy Mother Who Protects and Nurtures from the South Pole, Fiery Radiance Empress;

Holy Mother Who Preserves Life from the Eastern Pole, Green Robe Empress;

Holy Mother Who Governs the Law and Gathers the Good, Empress of the Eight Extremities;

Holy Mother of the Heavenly Register Who Inherits Heaven, Jade Perfected Empress;

Holy Mother Who Inspects and Corrects the Eight Extremities, Golden Radiance Empress.

Empress of the South Pole, Holy Mother of Nurturing, Lady of the Radiant Flame (the goddess who presides over childbirth and offers protection).

Empress of the Eastern Pole, Holy Mother of Life’s Protection, Lady in Blue (the blue-robed goddess who protects life in the Eastern Pole).

Empress of the Eight Directions, Holy Mother Who Upholds the Laws and Practices Goodness (the goddess who governs ritual order and protects the eight directions).

Empress Houtu, Sovereign Earth Deity Who Receives Heaven’s Mandate and Models Herself on the Earth (the goddess Houtu, who receives Heaven’s mandate and takes Heaven and Earth as her model).

Primordial Lady, Mother of the Dao, Supreme Sovereign of the Nine Heavens (the exalted and supreme Mother of the Dao who dwells in the Nine Heavens).

The deities have already been petitioned above, and we have been graced by their arrival. With reverent hearts, everyone performs the ritual and presents offerings.

Dragon-shaped seats have been arranged in the Jade Hall. May the deities of the heavens swiftly descend.

With our humble sincerity, we take refuge in the Great Dao. Whatever we pray for will accord with our wishes.

Fresh flowers stand in the vases, giving off their fragrance; incense smoke curls up from the burners.

We raise the Wisdom Incense high and offer three prayers, asking that abundant blessings and grace descend.

Xubu (ritual music performed with walking and chanting)

The throne descends into the Golden Hall. Its crown, glowing like rosy clouds, illuminates the Jade Hall with a pure and radiant light. The immortals of the heavens come to pay homage where the sovereign resides, while colored clouds bear the immortals’ shoes as they drift into view.

Hymn for Taking the Seat (praise chanted as the deities are invited to be seated)

On the throne of the deities of the Nine Heavens are a jade table and a dragon-shaped seat. Golden light shines, and precious jewels gleam. The deities of the heavens descend, and the ritual flourishes. We respectfully invite the deities to accept this cloudlike seat.

On the throne of the deities of the Nine Heavens are a jade table and a dragon-shaped seat. Golden light shines, and precious jewels gleam. The deities of the heavens descend, and the ritual flourishes. We respectfully invite the deities to accept this throne and keep our elder brother safe and well. We offer immortal pears, fiery dates, jade-like nai fruit, and Peaches of Immortality. We light candles like jade blossoms and present sweet dew and ambrosia, a precious, cheese-like drink. There are also auspicious dew from jade springs, phoenix tea, and dragon-bud tea, along with fragrant delicacies prepared in the Heavenly Kitchen. Each is offered in turn with sincere intention.

Clear Qi and turbid Qi separate, and Yin and Yang each take their proper place. Qian and Kun (Heaven and Earth) unite and give birth to six children; when Heaven and Earth are harmonious and at peace, they nurture all things. How much more, then, does the Empress Primordial Sovereign, the goddess who oversees childbirth and protection, alone hold authority over Yin instruction, the teachings concerning women and childbirth. The pregnancies and births of ordinary people in the lower realm depend entirely on the protection of sacred grace. Every form born in the Three Realms first shows signs at the beginning of the Six Yin. When good deeds accumulate, descendants flourish; when evil deeds pile up, later generations decline. Prayers surely receive a response, and every request is fulfilled. Pray for a son, and a clever, wise child is granted; pray for a daughter, and a daughter of fine appearance is granted. In an instant, the sacred gods can rescue those in mortal danger and swiftly dispel calamities. Fortune and misfortune follow their established order: they punish evil and bestow blessings on the good, wield the scales of judgment, set right right and wrong, correct what is crooked, and save and protect the lives of all beings. Those who devoutly venerate the Nine Gods will surely reach a spiritual communion with them.

We are fortunate to have been born human and to live in a peaceful age, receiving the teachings of the gods and spreading the Great Dao in the subtle and numinous realm. Therefore, we have specially purified the sacred altar and respectfully invited the divine perfected ones to descend. Incense smoke rises like a jeweled canopy, auspicious Qi billowing before the terraces of the Jade Palace; fresh flowers scatter like fine jade, their fragrance reaching across Jade Capital Mountain. We offer sacrifices with sincerity and present our virtue as their fragrance, looking up in gratitude for sacred grace, then setting forth our own faults. May the sacred gods sustain us for a long time and protect all pregnancies and births, keeping them safe from harm. We have therefore arranged a sumptuous banquet to express our plea for great blessings. We respectfully invite auspicious radiance to descend and protect the sacred consort and all beings; we respectfully invite the divine retinue from among the clouds to descend upon the Zhaijiao rite, the Daoist ritual for establishing an altar and praying for blessings, and bear witness to its merit. We welcome the gods with fragrant incense and express our reverence with utmost sincerity. The sacred gods’ creative power is impartial, and their insight is clear and discerning. Now we respectfully pray for the reigning emperor, the empress, and all the gods: may their lives endure as long as Heaven, may their descendants flourish, and may their lineage continue through distant generations.

Now the Emperor, Empress, and all the officials enjoy long lives, and their descendants flourish. Their family line stretches far into the future, its glory joined like the branches and leaves of a jade tree. The court’s teachings spread to the lands of shifting sands, and war has ceased along the northern frontier. The people live in peace and contentment, celebrating timely rain and wind and a good, harmonious year. The peoples of the borderlands turn toward benevolence and virtue; there is no more warfare within the four quarters or along the frontiers. Lingzhi grows as an auspicious offering, and near the purple bamboo, signs of good fortune appear. All under Heaven submit to a government guided by the Dao. We respectfully present our offerings, bow low in reverence, and offer incense, tea, and wine. We perform the first offering and scatter flowers in devotion to the perfected ones, the revered Daoist deities.

We now state the sacred ranks once more and respectfully address the holy seats, following the same rites as before. We have heard that no place on earth is without living beings, and that above the earth dwell the exalted gods who govern fate and life. In their palaces, they oversee the registers of the living, administer the length of each person’s life, judge good and evil, and determine whether years are added or taken away. They divide Yin and Yang and arrange men and women. Everyone’s allotted fate is clearly set down, with no partiality even in the smallest matter. Now, a certain person prays for every blessing to gather and a thousand auspicious signs to arrive together. May their descendants’ fortune, prosperity, and longevity increase; may the household flourish, with worthy people in every generation and a promising line of descendants. We respectfully pray…

The Primordial Lady, Empress of the Nine Heavens (a revered Daoist deity), the Immortal Consort of Lingji, and the immortals who serve them oversee the registers of human birth. We rely on their abundant grace and pray that they preserve life, protect the people, and rescue the world. We ask them to pardon the sins already entered into the records and to protect children as they grow in safety, so that raising them brings no worry or hardship.

With sincere hearts, we cultivate merit and implore the gods to protect us with compassion. We also pray that the Nine Generations of the Mysterious Ancestors and the Seven Generations of Ancestors, together with our relatives from past lives, may leave the underworld and ascend to a blessed realm. May their names be entered in the register of life in the Southern Palace, and may the sins recorded in the Northern Office be erased. May the gods bestow auspicious peaches that symbolize longevity, extending life by three thousand years, and fire dates that add ten cycles to one’s years. May our relatives near and far, and all those bound to us by affinity, receive their protection.

The sponsor of the Zhaijiao rite, the person presiding over this Daoist prayer ceremony, reverently offers incense, tea, and wine. Now comes the second offering of wine. The sponsor’s heart is full of sincerity, though there is nothing else to offer.

The ritual rank is declared once more.

The officiating ritual master submits this petition to the gods; the divine recipients are the same as those named above.

We have heard that the Great Gods of the Four Rivers govern the preservation of life and protection of its duration, while the vital essences of the Five Sacred Peaks record and gather the spiritual abundance of the human world. Though the Water Palace is distant and deep, it is where infants are conceived and brought into being. Whenever people make a plea, the gods respond; when the heart is moved, prayers receive an answering response.

Now, a certain person has received the gods’ grace and for a long time has seen their wishes fulfilled. May blessings descend upon the children, and joy continue through the family. May boys be intelligent and prosperous, and girls poised and beautiful. May evil spirits be unable to intrude, and illness unable to harm them. May all receive protection as they are nurtured, and grow up safely, each in their own way. With a single thought of devotion, we look up to the compassionate gods and ask them to witness and heed our plea.

We respectfully offer our devotion to:

The Supreme Primordial Lady, Empress of the Nine Heavens; the Intelligent and Auspicious Immortal Consort … May girls be poised and beautiful, evil spirits unable to intrude, and illness unable to harm them. May all receive protection as they are nurtured and grow up safely, each in their own way. With a single thought of devotion, we look up to the compassionate gods and ask them to witness and heed our plea.

The Supreme Empress Primordial Sovereign, Mother of the Dao of the Nine Heavens, the Immortal Consort of Numinous Aid, and the host of immortals who attend them:

We respectfully pray: May you, from your palace atop the Jade Terrace, pardon the wrongs accumulated over past lives; and, in the Heaven of the Thirty-Three, bestow blessings and official rank upon us in this life. Protect our family, that it may prosper from generation to generation, enjoy wealth and honor, and have many children. May our descendants continue without end and our clan grow large. Keep the whole family safe and blessed, with mother and child free of worry. Let no evil spirits disturb us, and may the myriad spirits ever stand guard.

Again and again, we presume to make our plea. Our hearts are filled with awe and reverence, and we sincerely bow our heads in homage. We now present incense, tea, and wine, and scatter flowers. All those gathered to take part in the rite, please each focus your mind and recite according to the liturgy.

The Scripture of the Southern Pole for Granting Birth has now been recited.

Read the petition aloud, then perform the great thanksgiving bow.

The petition just read has been announced before the assembly. The sacred will is wise and impartial. All those present, please each focus your mind and recite according to the liturgy.

The Scripture of the Southern Pole for Granting Birth has now been recited.

Read the petition aloud, then perform the great thanksgiving bow.

The petition just read has been announced before the assembly. The sacred will is wise and impartial, and surely will look with favor upon our prayer. We now once more burn precious incense and reverently make our supplication:

Empress Primordial Sovereign, Mother of the Dao of the Nine Heavens; Immortal Consort of Numinous Aid; and the Perfected Sovereign presiding over this Zhaijiao purification rite.

It is said that Yin and Yang joined, and all things took shape. The Qi of Heaven and Earth blended, and many spirits appeared from it. The cosmos began with the One, then divided, giving rise to the two Qi of Yin and Yang. The Dao Mother is the source of the gods of all Yin, while the Empress of the Gods is the mother of the heavens. They govern the growth and reproduction of all things, protect the birth of life, and watch over infants. They drive away epidemics and dispel calamities, aid those in distress with compassion, show mercy to all beings, vow to protect the people, and spread their blessings far and wide.

We are fortunate to have been born in an age of peace and prosperity, to witness human relationships and worldly affairs, and to grow under the protection of the gods. We earnestly ask the gods to grant us their unseen protection, so that we may uphold the wondrous Dao of the primordial state and save the people of the lower realm. All who serve with complete sincerity will receive a response and protection.

We humbly present our petitions and respectfully offer fragrant sacrifices. The virtue of the sage gods is impartial; their merit, carried out unseen, makes no claim for itself. We earnestly ask the gods to look upon us with understanding and bestow profound and abundant grace. We humbly pray that they pause their phoenix carriage and crane palanquin, forgive our faults, and keep mother and child safe; may they grant grace and blessings, bringing joy to our household.

Now, I and the ritual officials who practice together at this altar have karmic causes reaching back to former kalpas and continuing into this life: some of us have committed wrongs through envy and harming others; others have incurred guilt through illicit sexual conduct.