《洪恩灵济真君礼愿文》

A vow is the heart’s wish of those who cultivate the True, and it is also a wish that anyone may form. In each kneeling and each bow, what matters is singleness of mind; singleness of mind means that the thought of goodness reaches its depths. The goodness of human nature is like water naturally flowing toward lower ground. What I fear is an unwillingness to correct what is not good. Thus this vow text is set forth to urge people to do good—how could it serve merely for the making of wishes?

Looking up to observe the patterns of Heaven, one obtains the number twenty-five; looking down to examine the earth, one obtains the number thirty. The two numbers combined come to fifty-five. The vow text is composed according to this number. Were it not in accord with the Dao (the Way) of Heaven and Earth, how could it attain such a realm? The good person embodies the guiding order of Heaven and Earth. If there is even a trace of falseness or slackness in one’s thoughts, that is not what I call forming a vow; how can such a person be set beside the good?

The Commentary says: “Goodness has no fixed master; what matters is to practice goodness with single-minded constancy from beginning to end.” This means that only by persevering from start to finish, without giving up halfway, does one fulfill goodness completely. Goodness is the root of blessing, and blessing is the result of accumulated good deeds. Gao Ying of the Tang dynasty said: “Accumulate good deeds so as to invite blessed recompense; one need not spend wealth to seek blessing.” If blessing can be sought without spending money, how could doing good be a waste of wealth? When good deeds are seen, they are shown to one another; when good words are heard, they are passed on to one another. Those who share the same purpose ought to encourage one another in this way, so as to stand unashamed before Heaven and Earth and unashamed before the True Lord. This, too, is the great vow of the True Lord of Vast Grace.

Now, reverently burning precious incense, we devoutly make offering:

The Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Illumines the Dao and Attains De (Virtue/Power), Manifests Numinous Power and Widely Delivers, Pure and Subtle, of the Cavern of Mystery (Dongxuan), Penetrating Emptiness and Marvelously Responsive, Kind and Gracious, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, the True Lord of Vast Grace (a title of a revered Daoist deity, praising his protection of the nation and succor of the people and his wide bestowal of grace).

The exalted immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens (the celestial palace), who proclaims moral teaching and assists the Daoist tradition, whose spiritual efficacy is manifest and who widely bestows relief, whose virtuous conduct is lofty and enlightened, vast and tranquil, profound and lucid, who responds to the world through the wondrous Dao (the Way) and benefits the people with benevolence, assisting the state and protecting the common people, is titled the Perfected Lord of Vast Grace (Hong’en Zhenjun).

The assembled immortals and spirit officers (Lingguan—the deities and guardian divine generals of the temple) of the Palace of Numinous Succor (Lingji Gong) are all together enshrined to protect the state and shelter the people, and they honor the Perfected Lord of Vast Grace.

Once more this exalted immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens is praised: he proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, manifests spiritual power to succor the world, and with the virtue of benevolence and kindness assists the state and protects the people; he is titled the Perfected Lord of Vast Grace.

The assembled immortals and spirit officers of the Palace of Numinous Succor all together honor and make offerings to the Perfected Lord of Vast Grace.

With reverence, let it be heard: the gods make virtue manifest, and it appears as uprightness and intelligence. It is only human to wish for an easy life and the enjoyment of wealth and rank. Sacrifice to the gods brings blessing and protection; how, then, could the rites be allowed to grow too slight?

For more than four hundred years the True Lord (Zhenjun) has received sacrifice in his temple, and the offerings of incense have remained abundantly flourishing. The stele inscription runs to a thousand characters, and the deeds it records have been handed down. His fame shines bright and illustrious, enduring without decay; the moral force of his way commands awe, as if still present before the eyes. His achievements benefit the state, and his virtuous grace extends to the people.

When farmers till with diligence, there comes the joy of abundant harvests of glutinous millet, broomcorn millet, rice, and sorghum. When artisans perfect their craft, the objects they make conform to the standards marked by the plumb line, the compass, and the square. Scholars establish themselves through loyalty and filial piety; merchants seek profit through humaneness and righteousness. Those who pray for marriage wish for harmony between husband and wife and peace in the household; those who pray for heirs wish to bear sons and daughters and to see their line continue without end. With timely winds and favorable rains, every hope for the growth of the myriad things can be fulfilled. The True Lord gives us clothing, so that we have garments to wear, and food, so that we may be warm and fed—all this is his benevolent favor. His grace reaches the myriad things, so that each finds what is fitting; he orders the four seasons, so that their sequence remains regular.

People revere the True Lord as they look up to Mount Tai and the Northern Dipper; how vast is his radiance! He has not cast us far aside. When he appears, the sight is auspicious: stars and auspicious clouds vie to show themselves, and people are granted a first glimpse, their hearts filled with joy. We ought to worship him with solemn rites and thereby make his divine power manifest.

In former times the True Lord received the honor of a plaque bestowed by the court; now he is further favored by the grace of Heaven. His spirit-seat has ascended into the Golden Portal and the Jade Portal (the celestial palaces of Daoist legend), and his title has been raised to Great Immortal and Supreme Immortal. His venerable honorific is praised, and his divine bearing is majestic and resplendent. Sacrifice to him will continue for a hundred generations, and he will stand as a model among the gods. Ranked with the creative work of Heaven and Earth, he endures through the ages since high antiquity, untouched by decline.

Although my heart aspires to the Dao (the Way), my talent and learning fall short of others’. I venture only a brief expression of thanks and offer a slight token of respect. I have reverently convened a ritual assembly—a Zhaijiao (purification ritual) conducted according to Daoist liturgy—and I presume to pray that the True Lord will deign to hear.

Humbly we pray that the True Lord, wearing jade luan-bells that sound clear and ringing, will drive eight divine dragons, winding on their way, and lead clouds and rainbow mists to come and receive us. Let He (the gate god of myth) open the Gate of Heaven; let Fenglong (the thunder god of legend) clear the way in front, and let Feilian (the wind god of legend) gallop after in attendance. May the True Lord descend at his ease, accept this offering, and enjoy blessings and long life that are pure, fair, and enduring. We present cassia wine and a pepper libation, steam fragrant dishes of melilot, and spread thoroughwort for a mat. May he linger in tranquil ease, pacing and turning his regard toward the human world.

With a heart full of earnest entreaty, I look upward and await the True Lord’s descent. I shall now reverently recite the Divine Spell of the True Lord’s Original Vow.

O Zhenjun (Lingji Zhenjun, a venerated deity of Daoism)—O Zhenjun! You are the great deity of the Northern Dipper, assisting Heaven and Earth in transforming and nurturing the myriad things, and shining upon the world together with the sun and moon. Below, you govern Fengdu (the underworld realm of which Daoism speaks); above, you attend audience with the Celestial Emperor. You uphold the orthodox law and cut down evil spirits and monsters. Invested with the honorific title “Lingji,” you extend blessings to all the people. When people offer a prayer, you are sure to respond, like an echo in a valley; when resonance arises, you are sure to commune with it, as a shadow follows form. Those who oppose you meet with calamity; those who accord with you are able to live. Om (the syllable uttered when chanting an incantation)—manifest your numinous majesty and broadly succor all living beings. Qian, Yuan, Heng: display the honorific title Lingji and extend blessings to all the people. When people offer a prayer, you are sure to respond, like an echo in a valley; when resonance arises, you are sure to commune with it, as a shadow follows form. Those who oppose you meet with calamity; those who accord with you are able to live. Om—manifest your numinous majesty and broadly succor all living beings. Qian, Yuan, Heng, Li, and Zhen (the five virtues in the Classic of Changes): reverently obey the ordinances and carry them out with all speed.

We pray that Lingji Zhenjun descend swiftly. Your virtue of cherishing life has won the deep recognition of the people. Please preserve and nurture the two Qi (vital energy) within my body—that is, the Qi of fiery Yang and of watery Yin. May you dispel calamity and deliver people from peril, so that the good receive blessings and evildoers suffer disaster. Reverently obey the ordinances and carry them out with all speed.

O Zhenjun, O Zhenjun! Born of the Northern Dipper, you carry out teaching and moral transformation on Heaven’s behalf, supporting the state and saving the people. You spread the orthodox law and cut down evil spirits and monsters; the demon kings, too, reverently guard you, and your true Qi endures. Reverently obey the ordinances and carry them out with all speed.

The divine incantation recited above has now been fully proclaimed. We now respectfully invite the Holy Father, King of Qi, Zhongwu Yiliang Zhenjun; the Holy Mother, Immortal Consort Renshou Shushan; and the two Lingji Zhenjun together with the two immortal consorts. Please descend to the ritual assembly and, together with all the divine perfected ones present, take your places in ranked order for courtly homage. When the homage is complete, please each ascend your ritual seat. With devout hearts, all present bow and offer incense.

Praise of the incense.

We humbly ask to offer to the spirits with bright De (Virtue/Power). Whether the sacrificial gifts are abundant does not decide whether the fragrance is sweet; those who do good, their De like iris and orchid, naturally possess a fine reputation. Now this stick of incense is burned: the jade censer shows auspicious signs, and the golden cauldron manifests good omens. The scent coils upward and gathers into cloud and mist; spreading soft and moist, it seems to fill heaven and earth with the air of spring. When the incense is held, it is as if an envoy has come before me; when the deities are served, it is as if a youth attendant stands behind me.

When the Zhaijiao (purification ritual) is held—the Daoist ceremony of setting up an altar and praying—one chants: “We bow our heads in reverence and make offerings with devotion.” When the Zhaijiao is not held, one says: “The wine has been set out; we first offer the first cup, and with it we honor the deities. The ritual assembly, of one heart, devoutly makes the offering.”

Verse on the Incense

The cloudy Qi (vital energy) of heaven falls into the seas of the four directions, and fierce winds blow across the great ocean. In the deep and hidden dragon palace, the sea god offers incense to the host of immortals. Now, with fervent and earnest hearts, we present the incense; its fragrance rises in delicate trails toward the Purple Court, the dwelling of the Celestial Emperor. It reaches the dark and far-off realms, and whatever is prayed for can be fulfilled as wished.

The assembly offers with one heart. Flowers are scattered. Incense smoke rises from the censer on the offering table, as if a grove of blossoms were spreading. The fragrance of Wuwei (non-action), of the Dao (the Way) and of De, fills the whole ritual space and is offered to the True Lord.

In Praise of Water

We humbly ask to offer clear water. Even foul water may be presented to princes and lords; what matters is loyalty and good faith. The source flows day and night without cease, yet I am ashamed that reputation exceeds reality. This water is neither turbid nor murky; it remains clear and pure throughout. In heaven it becomes rain and dew, received by bronze pillars and golden stalks; beneath the earth it becomes sweet springs, and to drink it is like jade nectar. Those who understand follow what is natural and do not act willfully. The highest good is like this water: it nourishes the myriad things and does not contend. No current fails to run toward the east; its source comes from the north.

When the Zhaijiao is held, one chants: “We bow our heads in reverence and make offerings with devotion.” When the Zhaijiao is not held, one says: “The wine has been set out; we offer the second cup, and with it we honor the deities. The ritual assembly, of one heart, devoutly makes the offering.”

Verse on the Water

The waters of the heavenly Milky Way brim full, clear and luminous, shining in all directions. The Milky Way becomes rain and dew that descend into the human world, and its grace spreads throughout heaven and earth. The rain moistens withered plants and nourishes all living beings. We ladle water and offer it up, thereby expressing sincere reverence, so that both body and mind are made pure.

With one heart, all dedicate the offering and scatter flowers. The source of the flowers does not lie in the water channels of the earth; they are irrigated by the celestial river. The flowers fill the ritual space (daochang) and are presented as offerings before the True Lord (Zhenjun).

In Praise of the Flowers

Layer upon layer of emerald leaves form deep shade beside the cool water; blossoms white as jade grow thick and luxuriant, radiant with vitality across the broad courtyard. The fragrance of these flowers arises from the veins of the earth. Irrigated by the celestial river, they spread throughout the ritual space and are offered before the True Lord.

In Praise of the Flowers

Layer upon layer of emerald leaves form deep shade beside the cool water; blossoms white as jade grow thick and luxuriant, radiant with vitality across the broad courtyard. These flowers have a fragrance of their own, and their colors have no fixed, unchanging form: the red lotus in the pond suddenly turns emerald, and the white peony may be dyed yellow. In the Moon Palace the shadows of cassia branches mirror the autumn moon, and in the grotto of Wuling a thousand peach trees smile in the spring breeze.

Wishing to express our wholehearted longing, we lodge our reverence in this rite. When a jiao rite is performed—a Daoist ritual of prayer and offering to the deities—one intones, “I bow my head and, with a devout heart, dedicate this offering.” When there is no repentance rite—a liturgy of worship and confession—wine is used for the final offering: this cup of wine is presented as an accompanying rite, and the ritual assembly gathers its intention in devout offering.

Chanting the Flower Gatha

In the Xuanpu, the legendary realm of the immortals, precious flowers flourish; their roots coil and spread toward the four directions. Graceful and upright, they have endured eight hundred years, and their fragrance has come down into the human world. In the bright immortal realm the flowers are especially resplendent, and precious blossoms drift down in colorful showers like rain. I pluck the purest and finest among them and now present them as an offering.

With one heart, all dedicate the offering and scatter flowers. Myriad blossoms arise; flowers descend from heaven, fluttering and scattering through the ritual space, and are offered before the True Lord. Colorful precious flowers fall like rain; I pluck the purest and finest among them and now present them as an offering.

With one heart, all dedicate the offering and scatter flowers. Myriad blossoms arise; flowers descend from heaven, fluttering and scattering through the ritual space, and are offered before the True Lord.

Spirits roam within the Great Dao (the Way); the eyes cannot see them, and the ears cannot hear them. Holding fast to the Dao with a mind of spiritual clarity, one seems to find it in front, and then suddenly it is behind. The Dao is hidden and subtle, yet it is without end; as for its name, how could human beings force a name upon it?

Since Chiming (a legendary ancient epoch) opened the heavens and established the cosmic charts, celestial scriptures have descended from that time. The Tianzhen (Perfected who have attained the Dao) took up the brush and wrote them, and from this the civilizing power of writing in the human world also arose. Diyu received the celestial scriptures before the Mude Terrace, and the Yellow Emperor transmitted their teaching on Mount Emei. Some scriptures came forth from Mount Juqu, fulfilling the wish of King Helü; some descended upon Mount Zhong, accomplishing the achievements of Yu of Xia. These scriptural teachings have been handed down so that all living beings may understand and awaken. Now we respectfully welcome and invite:

the Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who illumines the Dao and attains De (Virtue/Power), manifests numinous power and broadly brings succor, of Qingwei (Pure Tenuity) and Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery), charging the void and wondrously resonant, compassionate and beneficent, protecting the state and sheltering the people, True Lord of Vast Grace (Hong’en Zhenjun)—a venerated Daoist deity, enshrined at the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who protects the state, blesses the people, and widely bestows grace;

and the Supreme Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, illumines the numinous and widely brings succor, lofty and bright, vastly serene, profound and limpid, wondrously responsive, humane and beneficent, assisting the state and aiding the people, True Lord of Vast Grace—a venerated Daoist deity who proclaims transformation, upholds the Daoist teaching, and protects the state and its people.

The two True Lords, above, assist the Dipper Perfected of the North Pole (stellar officials of the Northern Polestar); within, they study the mysterious learning of Donghua (the Eastern Florescence). Through a million million kalpas, they have cultivated themselves life after life; they made fifty-five vows, and every vow has been fulfilled. They smelted gold into phoenix-formed talismanic seals, and carved jade to write dragon-formed chapters. They wish, together with all sentient beings, to cultivate and attain the unsurpassed Great Dao. All those in the ritual arena (Daochang) bow their heads and take refuge, devoting themselves wholeheartedly to praise.

Together the assembly chants the Hymn on the Original Vows of the True Lords:

The True Lords ascend in audience before the imperial throne and mount the heavenly stairs. Their radiance shines in concert with the sun and moon, and they preside over the stellar officials of the Three Platforms (Santai). The host of stars encircles and guards them, and the Silver River gleams in splendor. Stationed at the Dragon Horn in the east, they alone occupy the bowl of the Dipper. The stellar officials of the Huagai (Celestial Canopy), the Fangsi (Room Quadriga), and others assist at their side, majestic and upright. The generals of the Feathered Forest attend to left and right, guiding and receiving them. The xun and the chi sound in turn, their tones harmonious and in accord. The True Lords return in glory to the Celestial Treasury and set foot upon the cloud road of ten thousand li.

All those in the ritual arena should each, with sincere devotion, offer praise and homage and perform the rites according to the ceremony.

With utmost sincerity we take refuge and pay homage. The True Lord’s De (Virtue/Power) matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared to the sun and moon. His spiritual powers are vast; he is upright and wise, holds compassion in his heart, and his great vows are profound and far-reaching. He can come in response to the prayers of all living beings, and he has sworn to save and deliver the people of the world.

The Hong’en (Vast Kindness) True Lord of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, Great Immortal Who Illumines the Dao (the Way) and Attains De, Who Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Succors, Clear and Subtle, of Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery), Empty and Void, Wondrously Attuned, Kind and Beneficent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People (the Hong’en True Lord who dwells in the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, manifests numinous power and universally succors, and protects the state and shelters the people).

With utmost sincerity we take refuge and pay homage. The True Lord’s awesome might shakes thunder and lightning, and his gracious favor falls everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and his merit and De are boundless. His compassion is vast and his great vows profound and far-reaching. He can come in response to the prayers of all living beings, and he has sworn to save and deliver the people of the world.

The Hong’en True Lord of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, Superior Immortal Who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Who Manifests Radiant Numinous Power and Broadly Succors, Lofty and Brilliant, Vast and Tranquil, Profound and Limpid, Wondrously Responsive, Benevolent and Beneficent, Assisting the State and Aiding the People (the Hong’en True Lord who dwells in the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, proclaims moral transformation and upholds Daoism, manifests numinous power and broadly succors, and assists the state and aids the people).

The Great Dao is lofty and vast and cannot be named in words. The flourishing, auspicious Qi (vital energy) of the Nine Heavens belongs to the True Lord. From ancient times, through countless months and years, the True Lord has been able to assume hundreds and thousands of transformations, wondrous and spiritually penetrating.

In chorus they chant: Now we devoutly praise the sacred virtue of the True Lord. May the True Lord bestow his awe-inspiring radiance and examine our sincerity. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the unsurpassed Great Dao.

With utmost sincerity we take refuge and pay homage, praising the True Lord’s De as vast as Heaven and Earth, his achievements comparable to the sun and moon, wondrous and spiritually penetrating.

In chorus they chant: Now we devoutly praise the sacred virtue of the True Lord. May the True Lord bestow his awe-inspiring radiance and examine our sincerity. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the unsurpassed Great Dao.

With utmost sincerity we take refuge and pay homage, praising the True Lord’s De as vast as Heaven and Earth and his achievements as comparable to the sun and moon, his spiritual powers wondrous in their workings, upright and wise. His compassion is vast and his great vows profound and far-reaching. He can come in response to the prayers of all living beings, and he has sworn to save and deliver the people of the world.

The Hong’en True Lord of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, Great Immortal Who Illumines the Dao and Attains De, Who Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Succors, Clear and Subtle, of Dongxuan, Empty and Void, Wondrously Attuned, Kind and Beneficent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People.

With utmost sincerity we take refuge and pay homage. The True Lord’s awesome might shakes thunder and lightning, and his gracious favor falls everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and his merit and De are boundless. His compassion is vast and his great vows profound and far-reaching. He can come in response to the prayers of all living beings, and he has sworn to save and deliver the people of the world.

The Hong’en True Lord of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, Superior Immortal Who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Who Manifests Radiant Numinous Power and Broadly Succors, Lofty and Brilliant, Vast and Tranquil, Profound and Limpid, Wondrously Responsive, Benevolent and Beneficent, Assisting the State and Aiding the People.

The founding ancestor of the Xu clan (the remote ancestor of the surname Xu) established the family enterprise and laid the foundation of the state’s destiny. A vermilion bow and crimson arrows descended as an auspicious omen. Descendants multiplied and flourished, and persons of talent emerged in great numbers; many outstanding figures have been recorded in the historical annals.

In chorus they chant: the Hong’en True Lord, Wondrously Responsive, Benevolent and Beneficent, Assisting the State and Aiding the People.

Our Xu ancestors founded their patrimony in this place and became meritorious ministers of the founding of the state. A vermilion bow and red arrows (a red bow and arrows, symbolizing auspicious omen) descended, bringing propitious signs. The descendants of the Xu clan multiplied and flourished, and people of talent appeared generation after generation; their deeds were entered into the historical annals.

Response: Now, with reverent hearts, we praise the sage’s De (Virtue/Power), and pray that the holy Perfected One bestow numinous power and perceive our sincerity. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme Dao (the Way).

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship: Your De matches Heaven and Earth, and your achievements may stand shoulder to shoulder with the sun and moon; your numinous powers and wondrous functioning are upright and clear-sighted; greatly compassionate and greatly merciful, your vows are vast. You come in response according to the conditions of sentient beings, and you vow to deliver the people of the world.

Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens Who Illumines the Dao and Attains De, Perfected Lord of Vast Grace Who Manifests the Numinous and Universally Succors, Pure and Subtle, of the Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery), Penetrating the Void and Wondrously Responsive, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People (an honorific title of a revered Daoist deity, extolling his manifestation of numinous power in saving the world, his compassionate benevolence in protecting the state, and his sheltering of the common people).

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship: Your majestic power shakes the thunder, and your gracious favor falls everywhere like rain and dew; your numinous powers are free and unhindered, and your blessings and De are boundless; greatly compassionate and greatly merciful, your vows are vast. You come in response according to the conditions of sentient beings, and you vow to deliver the people of the world.

Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens Who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Perfected Lord of Vast Grace Who Manifests the Numinous and Broadly Succors, Lofty and Brilliant, Vastly Serene, Penetrating and Profound, Wondrously Responsive, Benevolent and Kind, Assisting the State and Protecting the People (an honorific title of a revered Daoist deity, extolling his proclamation of teaching and transformation, his upholding of the Daoist teaching, and his salvation of the world and protection of the state).

In the period of the Five Dynasties, powers on every side rose to contend for supremacy; he alone rose in Huainan and established distinguished achievements. His honored name for loyalty and martial valor was entered into the historical annals; the noble title of King of Qi was inherited generation after generation, enduring through a thousand years.

Response: Now, with reverent hearts, we praise the sage’s De, and pray that the holy Perfected One bestow numinous power and perceive our sincerity. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme Dao.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship: Your De matches Heaven and Earth, and your achievements may stand shoulder to shoulder with the sun and moon; your numinous powers and wondrous functioning … were entered into the historical annals; the noble title of King of Qi was inherited generation after generation, enduring through a thousand years.

Response: Now, with reverent hearts, we praise the sage’s De, and pray that the holy Perfected One bestow numinous power and perceive our sincerity. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme Dao.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship: Your De matches Heaven and Earth, and your achievements may stand shoulder to shoulder with the sun and moon; your numinous powers and wondrous functioning are upright and clear-sighted; greatly compassionate and greatly merciful, your vows are vast. You come in response according to the conditions of sentient beings, and you vow to deliver the people of the world.

Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens Who Illumines the Dao and Attains De, Perfected Lord of Vast Grace Who Manifests the Numinous and Universally Succors, Pure and Subtle, of the Dongxuan, Penetrating the Void and Wondrously Responsive, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People (an honorific title of a revered Daoist deity, extolling his manifestation of numinous power in saving the world, his compassionate benevolence in protecting the state, and his sheltering of the common people).

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship: Your majestic power shakes the thunder, and your gracious favor falls everywhere like rain and dew; your numinous powers are free and unhindered, and your blessings and De are boundless; greatly compassionate and greatly merciful, your vows are vast. You come in response according to the conditions of sentient beings, and you vow to deliver the people of the world.

The Supreme Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, whose numinous power is manifest and whose relief is broad, lofty and bright, vast and still, profound and limpid, wondrously responsive, benevolent and gracious, who assists the state and protects the people—the True Lord of Vast Grace (Hongen Zhenjun) (the supreme immortal who dwells in the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, proclaims moral transformation, and upholds the Daoist teaching, whose spiritual efficacy is illustrious and who widely bestows relief, who is benevolent and benefits the people, assisting the state and sheltering the common folk—the True Lord of Vast Grace).

The righteous army, acting under orders, marched south into the Seven Min (the region of present-day Fujian). The people of the Seven Min submitted and gave their allegiance, and no war occurred. Officials and commoners alike remained peacefully settled as before. The people filled bamboo baskets with rice and pots with thin rice broth, and went out joyfully to welcome them.

In response: Now we devoutly praise the De (Virtue/Power) of the Holy Lord, and pray that the Holy Lord bestow his majestic numinous power and clearly discern the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme Dao (the Way).

Taking refuge and paying homage with utmost sincerity: the Holy Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements shine as brilliantly as the sun and moon; his spiritual powers are wondrous in their working, and he is upright and wise; his compassion is vast and his vows profound; he is able to come to the rescue in sympathetic response to living beings, and he swears to save and deliver the people of the world.

The Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who illumines the Dao and attains De, who manifests the numinous and universally brings deliverance, pure and subtle, Dongxuan (of the Three Caverns), empty and void, wondrously responsive, compassionate and gracious, who protects the state and shelters the people—the True Lord of Vast Grace (the great immortal who dwells in the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens and extols the great Dao and its De, who manifests the numinous and broadly saves, compassionate and gracious, protecting the state and sheltering the people—the True Lord of Vast Grace), upright and wise, of vast compassion and profound vows, able to come to the rescue in sympathetic response to living beings, and swearing to save and deliver the people of the world.

The Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who illumines the Dao and attains De, who manifests the numinous and universally brings deliverance, pure and subtle, Dongxuan, empty and void, wondrously responsive, compassionate and gracious, who protects the state and shelters the people—the True Lord of Vast Grace.

Taking refuge and paying homage with utmost sincerity: the Holy Lord’s majesty shakes like thunder, and his grace falls everywhere like rain and dew; his spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and his blessings and merit are boundless; his compassion is vast and his vows profound; he is able to come to the rescue in sympathetic response to living beings, and he swears to save and deliver the people of the world.

The Supreme Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, whose numinous power is manifest and whose relief is broad, lofty and bright, vast and still, profound and limpid, wondrously responsive, benevolent and gracious, who assists the state and protects the people—the True Lord of Vast Grace.

The grand ceremony of welcome proceeded just as before, and everyone joyfully received him from the east. The people were as simple and pure as newborn infants, yet they dared to drill troops and horses beside the pond. The Holy Lord grew up at Aofeng, a truly blessed land; in an instant the crowing of chickens and the barking of dogs sounded once more, and the peaceful life of former days was restored.

In response: Now we devoutly praise the De of the Holy Lord, and pray that the Holy Lord bestow his majestic numinous power and clearly discern the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme Dao.

Taking refuge and paying homage with utmost sincerity: the Holy Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements shine as brilliantly as the sun and moon; his spiritual powers are wondrous in their working, and he is upright and wise; his compassion is vast and his vows profound; he is able to come to the rescue in sympathetic response to living beings, and he swears to save and deliver the people of the world.

Kun of the Nine Heavens: his achievements shine as brilliantly as the sun and moon; his spiritual powers are wondrous in their working, and he is upright and wise; his compassion is vast and his vows profound; he is able to come to the rescue in sympathetic response to living beings, and he swears to save and deliver the people of the world.

The True Lord of Vast Grace (Hongen Zhenjun), Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who illumines the Dao (the Way) and attains De (Virtue/Power), manifests the numinous and universally succors, of the Clear and Subtle, Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery), the Empty Void, wondrous resonance, and compassionate kindness, protector of the state and shelter of the people (a deity revered in Daoism who guards the nation and blesses the people):

With sincere hearts we reverently worship and take refuge. The True Lord’s might shakes thunder and lightning, and his grace falls everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are vast, free, and unobstructed, and his blessings and De are without limit. Supremely compassionate, the True Lord has made a great vow to come in response according to what living beings need, and has sworn to save the people of the world.

The True Lord of Vast Grace, Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, illumines the numinous and broadly succors, lofty and bright, vast and still, profound and deep, of wondrous response and humane kindness, who assists the state and protects the people:

People cut reeds and trees and raised a shrine; day and night they burn incense to wish the True Lord long life. The True Lord receives the offerings of the temple and the titles conferred by the dynasty. His divine might is illustrious, and his radiance blazes bright.

Chanted in unison: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the sacred De of the True Lord. May the True Lord send down his awesome light to examine our sincerity. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme Dao.

With sincere hearts we reverently worship and take refuge. The True Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared with the sun and the moon. His spiritual powers and wondrous workings are upright and clear-sighted. Supremely compassionate, the True Lord has made a great vow to come in response according to what living beings need, and has sworn to save the people of the world.

Take refuge in the supreme Dao.

With sincere hearts we reverently worship and take refuge. The True Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared with the sun and the moon. His spiritual powers and wondrous workings are upright and clear-sighted. Supremely compassionate, the True Lord has made a great vow to come in response according to what living beings need, and has sworn to save the people of the world.

The True Lord of Vast Grace, Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who illumines the Dao and attains De, manifests the numinous and universally succors, of the Clear and Subtle, Dongxuan, the Empty Void, wondrous resonance, and compassionate kindness, protector of the state and shelter of the people:

With sincere hearts we reverently worship and take refuge. The True Lord’s might shakes thunder and lightning, and his grace falls everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unconstrained, and his blessings and De are without limit. Supremely compassionate, the True Lord has made a great vow to come in response according to what living beings need, and has sworn to save the people of the world.

The True Lord of Vast Grace, Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, illumines the numinous and broadly succors, lofty and bright, vast and still, profound and deep, of wondrous response and humane kindness, who assists the state and protects the people:

The True Lord alone occupies a grotto-heaven on Ao Peak (a wondrous realm where immortals dwell). The scenery before the shrine remains to this day as it was. Vines and creepers interlace, and unbroken green stretches beyond the blue clouds; there are also the waterfalls and flying springs of the Dragon Pool (a deep pool where, according to legend, a dragon dwells).

Chanted in unison: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the sacred De of the True Lord. May the True Lord send down his awesome light to examine our sincerity. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme Dao.

With my whole heart I reverently take refuge and bow in worship. The True Lord’s De (Virtue/Power) matches Heaven and Earth, and his merits shine as brightly as the sun and moon. His spiritual powers and wondrous workings are inconceivable; in character he is upright, intelligent, and clear in discernment. Great in kindness and great in compassion, he established a vast sacred vow, coming forth to respond according to the affinities of living beings, and he swore to save the people of the world.

The Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, Illuminating the Dao (the Way) and Attaining De, Manifesting Numinous Power and Universally Succoring, of Pure Subtlety and Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery), Void-Penetrating and Wondrously Responsive, Kind and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, True Lord of Vast Mercy (an honorific title praising his manifestation of numinous power in succoring the world, and his protection of the state and sheltering of the people).

With my whole heart I reverently take refuge and bow in worship. The True Lord’s awesome might shakes the thunder, and his grace falls everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers move in perfect freedom, and his blessings and De are vast without bound. Great in kindness and great in compassion, he established a vast sacred vow, coming forth to respond according to the affinities of living beings, kindly and benevolently protecting the state and sheltering the common people.

With my whole heart I reverently take refuge and bow in worship. The True Lord’s awesome might shakes the thunder, and his grace falls everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers move in perfect freedom, and his blessings and De are vast without bound. Great in kindness and great in compassion, he established a vast sacred vow, coming forth to respond according to the affinities of living beings, and he swore to save the people of the world.

The Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, Proclaiming Transformation and Upholding the Teaching, Manifesting Spiritual Radiance and Broadly Succoring, Lofty and Brilliant, Vastly Serene, Deeply Limpid, Wondrously Responsive, Humane and Kind, Assisting the State and Aiding the People, True Lord of Vast Mercy (an honorific title praising his proclamation of transformation and moral instruction, his support of the Daoist teaching, and his assistance to the state and aid to the people).

Five-colored auspicious clouds part, revealing purple banners. A wooden incense burner, though passed through the tempering of fire, remains undamaged—how extraordinary this auspicious omen! A pair of dragons descends from Heaven to stand guard; truly these are numinous objects in which divine spirits abide.

Recited in unison: Now we devoutly praise the De of the holy True Ones. May the True Lord bestow his awesome radiance and look upon the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme great Dao.

With my whole heart I reverently take refuge and bow in worship. The True Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his merits shine as brightly as the sun and moon. His spiritual powers and wondrous workings are inconceivable; in character he is upright and clear in discernment. Great in kindness and great in compassion, he established a vast sacred vow, coming forth to respond according to the affinities of living beings, and he swore to save the people of the world.

The Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, Illuminating the Dao and Attaining De, Manifesting Numinous Power and Universally Succoring, of Pure Subtlety and Dongxuan, Void-Penetrating and Wondrously Responsive, Kind and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, True Lord of Vast Mercy.

With my whole heart I reverently take refuge and bow in worship. The True Lord’s awesome might shakes the thunder, and his grace falls everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers move in perfect freedom, and his blessings and De are vast without bound. Great in kindness and great in compassion, he established a vast sacred vow, coming forth to respond according to the affinities of living beings, and he swore to save the people of the world.

The Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, Proclaiming Transformation and Upholding the Teaching… The True Lord’s spiritual powers move in perfect freedom, and his blessings and De are vast without bound. Great in kindness and great in compassion, he established a vast sacred vow, coming forth to respond according to the affinities of living beings, and he swore to save the people of the world.

The Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, Proclaiming Transformation and Upholding the Teaching, Manifesting Spiritual Radiance and Broadly Succoring, Lofty and Brilliant, Vastly Serene, Deeply Limpid, Wondrously Responsive, Humane and Kind, Assisting the State and Aiding the People, True Lord of Vast Mercy.

One day a thunderstorm broke out suddenly, and two dragons, swimming against the current of the stream, came all the way to the center of the island. They transformed into a wooden furnace and manifested a sacred auspicious omen; the local people therefore built a shrine in which to offer worship.

The assembly chants in unison: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the sacred De (Virtue/Power) of the True Lord (Zhenjun), and we pray that the True Lord bestow the bright radiance of his awe-inspiring spirit and clearly discern our sincerity. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme Dao (the Way).

With sincere hearts we entrust our lives and bow in worship: The True Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be ranked with the sun and moon; his numinous powers and wondrous functions are upright and discerning; great in compassion and great in mercy, he has established a vast sacred vow, coming to respond according to the conditions of living beings, and he swears to save the people of the world.

Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Succors, of Qingwei (Pure Tenuity) and Dongxuan (one of the Three Caverns), of Penetrating Emptiness and Wondrous Resonance, of Compassionate Kindness, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, of Vast Grace and compassion—great in holiness and great in vows, he hastens to respond as the occasion arises, and swears to deliver humankind.

True Lord of Vast Grace, Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Succors, of Qingwei and Dongxuan, of Penetrating Emptiness and Wondrous Resonance, of Compassionate Kindness, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People.

With sincere hearts we entrust our lives and bow in worship: The True Lord’s majesty shakes the thunder, and his grace descends like rain and dew; his numinous powers are free and unhindered, his blessings and virtue without bound; great in compassion and great in mercy, he has established a vast sacred vow, coming to respond according to the conditions of living beings, and he swears to save the people of the world.

True Lord of Vast Grace, Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Illumines the Numinous and Broadly Succors, of Lofty Brightness and Vast Stillness, of Penetrating Clarity and Wondrous Response, of Benevolent Kindness, Assisting the State and Blessing the People.

From ancient times the customs of the people were plain and sincere, and that age was known as a flourishing era of harmonious prosperity, when all under Heaven was at peace. Whether in rain or in clear weather, the True Lord has always responded; let the two characters “rain” and “yang” (clear, sunny weather) be included as part of the honorific title.

The assembly chants in unison: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the sacred De of the True Lord, and we pray that the True Lord bestow the bright radiance of his awe-inspiring spirit and clearly discern our sincerity. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme Dao.

With sincere hearts, in reverent admiration, we entrust our lives and bow in worship: The True Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be ranked with the sun and moon; his numinous powers and wondrous functions are upright and discerning; great in compassion and great in mercy, he has established a vast sacred vow, coming to respond according to the conditions of living beings, and he swears to save the people of the world.

May the nine together take refuge in the supreme Dao.

With sincere hearts, in reverent admiration, we entrust our lives and bow in worship: The True Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be ranked with the sun and moon; his numinous powers and wondrous functions are upright and discerning; great in compassion and great in mercy, he has established a vast sacred vow, coming to respond according to the conditions of living beings, and he swears to save the people of the world.

True Lord of Vast Grace, Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Succors, of Qingwei and Dongxuan, of Penetrating Emptiness and Wondrous Resonance, of Compassionate Kindness, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People.

With a heart of utmost sincerity I take refuge and bow in worship: the True Lord (Zhenjun), a venerated deity of Daoism, whose majestic power shakes the thunder, whose grace descends everywhere like rain and dew; whose spiritual powers move freely, whose blessings and merit are boundless; whose compassion is vast and whose vows are grand and profound, able to come in response to the prayers of living beings, and sworn to save the people of the world.

I bow in worship to the Upper Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, the True Lord of Immense Grace (Hong'en Zhenjun) who manifests the numinous and broadly delivers, lofty and bright, expansive and still, profound and limpid, wondrously responsive, benevolent and gracious, assisting the state and protecting the people.

In former times, in the region of Yanxi, the temple for sacrificing to the True Lord was moved and rebuilt. Beside the temple, at the edge of the stream, there was a small sloping plot of ground. Through the turning of seas into mulberry fields and the changes of worldly affairs, down to the present day the local elders still call that place the shetan, the site for sacrificing to the god of the soil and the spirits of the locality.

In chorus: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the holy virtue, and pray that the True Lord bestow the radiance of his divine majesty and clearly perceive our sincerity. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme and unsurpassed Dao (the Way).

With a heart of utmost sincerity I take refuge and bow in worship: the True Lord’s virtue matches Heaven and Earth, and his merit may be compared to the sun and moon; his spiritual powers and wondrous functions are upright and perceptive; his compassion is vast and his vows are grand and profound, able to come in response to the prayers of living beings, and sworn to save the people of the world.

I take refuge in the Unsurpassed Dao of the Nine Heavens, the supreme and unsurpassed Dao.

With a heart of utmost sincerity I take refuge and bow in worship: the True Lord’s virtue matches Heaven and Earth, and his merit may be compared to the sun and moon; his spiritual powers and wondrous functions are upright and perceptive; his compassion is vast and his vows are grand and profound, able to come in response to the prayers of living beings, and sworn to save the people of the world.

I bow in worship to the Great Immortal of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens who illumines the Dao and fulfills De (Virtue/Power), the True Lord of Immense Grace who manifests the numinous and universally saves, pure and subtle, of the Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery, one of the Three Caverns), penetrating emptiness, wondrously responsive, compassionate and kind, protecting the state and sheltering the people.

With a heart of utmost sincerity I take refuge and bow in worship: the True Lord, whose majestic power shakes the thunder, whose grace descends everywhere like rain and dew; whose spiritual powers move freely, whose blessings and merit are boundless; whose compassion is vast and whose vows are grand and profound, able to come in response to the prayers of living beings, and sworn to save the people of the world.

I bow in worship to the Upper Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, the True Lord of Immense Grace who manifests the numinous and broadly delivers, lofty and bright, expansive and still, profound and limpid, wondrously responsive, benevolent and gracious, assisting the state and protecting the people.

The shrine built during the Zhenghe reign was grand in scale, its roof ridges reared high like dragon heads, its gates and courtyards broad. Beyond the eaves the wind among the firs sounded clear and pleasing, and before the hall the cassia trees cast swaying shadows in the moonlight.

In chorus: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the holy virtue, and pray that the True Lord bestow the radiance of his divine majesty and clearly perceive our sincerity. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme and unsurpassed Dao.

With a heart of utmost sincerity I take refuge and bow in worship: beyond the eaves the wind among the firs sounded clear and pleasing, and before the hall the cassia trees cast swaying shadows in the moonlight.

In chorus: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the holy virtue, and pray that the True Lord bestow the radiance of his divine majesty and clearly perceive our sincerity. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme and unsurpassed Dao.

Devoutly taking refuge and offering worship: the True Lord’s De (Virtue/Power) matches Heaven and Earth, and his merits may be compared to the sun and moon; his divine powers work wondrously, and he is upright and wise; his compassion is vast, and, sagely enlightened and possessed of a great vow, he comes in response to the prayers of all living beings and has sworn to save the people of the world.

The Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens Who Illuminates the Dao (the Way) and Attains De, Manifesting Numinous Power and Bringing Universal Relief, Clear and Subtle, of Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery, one of the Three Caverns), Penetrating the Void in Wondrous Resonance, Compassionate and Beneficent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People—the Hong’en True Lord (a revered deity of Daoism, whose honorific title means one who dwells at the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, makes manifest the great Dao and virtuous conduct, displays numinous power and brings universal relief, and with compassion and beneficence protects the state and safeguards the people).

Devoutly taking refuge and offering worship: the True Lord’s majestic power shakes the thunder, and his grace descends everywhere like rain and dew; his divine powers are free and unhindered, and his blessings and merit are boundless; his compassion is vast, and, sagely enlightened and possessed of a great vow, he comes in response to the prayers of all living beings and has sworn to save the people of the world.

The Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens Who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Illuminating the Numinous and Bringing Broad Relief, Lofty and Brilliant, Vastly Still, Deep and Limpid in Wondrous Response, Benevolent and Kind, Assisting the State and Protecting the People—the Hong’en True Lord (a revered deity of Daoism, whose honorific title means one who dwells at the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, proclaims moral transformation and upholds Daoism, displays numinous power and brings universal relief, and with benevolence and kindness assists the state and protects the people).

Without form and without sound, his deeds are hidden, profound, and hard to fathom, as he saves the people of the world.

The Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens Who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Illuminating the Numinous and Bringing Broad Relief, Lofty and Brilliant, Vastly Still, Deep and Limpid in Wondrous Response, Benevolent and Kind, Assisting the State and Protecting the People—the Hong’en True Lord.

Without form and without sound, his deeds are hidden, profound, and hard to fathom; through the De of supreme harmony he communicates with the divinities. At night a radiance appears, shining like stars and lamps; when the music of the nine performances is offered, it is as if the music of Heaven can be heard.

Voices in harmony sing: Now we devoutly praise the De and deeds of the Holy True Lord, and we pray that the True Lord bestow his awe-inspiring numinous power and clearly discern the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the unsurpassed great Dao.

Devoutly taking refuge and offering worship: the True Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his merits may be compared to the sun and moon; his divine powers work wondrously, and he is upright and wise; his compassion is vast, and, sagely enlightened and possessed of a great vow, he comes in response to the prayers of all living beings and has sworn to save the people of the world.

The Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens Who Illuminates the Dao and Circulates De, Manifesting Numinous Power and Bringing Universal Relief, Clear and Subtle, of Dongxuan, Penetrating the Void in Wondrous Resonance, Compassionate and Beneficent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People—the Hong’en True Lord.

Devoutly taking refuge and offering worship: the True Lord’s majestic power shakes the thunder, and his grace descends everywhere like rain and dew; his divine powers are free and unhindered, and his blessings and merit are boundless; his compassion is vast, and, sagely enlightened and possessed of a great vow, he comes in response to the prayers of all living beings and has sworn to save the people of the world.

The Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens Who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Illuminating the Numinous and Bringing Broad Relief, Lofty and Brilliant, Vastly Still, Deep and Limpid in Wondrous Response, Benevolent and Kind, Assisting the State and Protecting the People—the Hong’en True Lord.

The True Lord once left a record of his deeds when a dragon banner manifested his numinous power, and the place took its name from this. Later, rain was prayed for in the royal palace, and a shrine was built for sacrifice. These matters are recorded in stele inscriptions and have long been passed down by word of mouth among the local people. In the autumn and winter seasons, people offer sacrifice at the proper times in order to repay the True Lord’s grace.

The congregation chants in unison: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the De (Virtue/Power) of the sage. May the holy perfected ones bestow their awesome radiance and examine the sincerity of our intentions. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme Dao (the Way).

With wholehearted devotion we take refuge and offer worship: Your De is commensurate with Heaven and Earth. The deeds concerned are recorded on stone steles and are widely recited among the people. When autumn and winter come, people perform sacrifice according to the season, in order to repay this grace.

The congregation chants in unison: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the De of the sage. May the holy perfected ones bestow their awesome radiance and examine the sincerity of our intentions. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme Dao.

With wholehearted devotion we take refuge and offer worship: Your De is commensurate with Heaven and Earth; your achievements may be compared with the sun and moon; your spiritual powers and wondrous functioning are inconceivable. You are upright in person and clear-sighted in the principles of affairs. Great in compassion and mercy, you have established a vast vow, coming in response according to the conditions and affinities of living beings, and you have sworn to save the people of the world.

Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Relieves, of Qingwei (Pure Subtlety), Dongxuan (Cavern Mystery), Penetrating Void, and Wondrous Response, of Kindness and Beneficence, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, Perfected Lord of Vast Grace (Hongen Zhenjun) (a Daoist honorific title, meaning the Perfected Lord who resides in the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, makes manifest the great Dao and De, displays numinous power and widely relieves, and protects the state and shelters the people).

With wholehearted devotion we take refuge and offer worship: Your majestic power shakes the thunder; your grace, like rain and dew, extends over all living beings. Your spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and your blessings and merit are without limit. Great in compassion and mercy, you have established a vast vow, coming in response according to the conditions and affinities of living beings, and you have sworn to save the people of the world.

Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Manifests Numinous Radiance and Broadly Relieves, of Lofty Brightness, Vast Stillness, Penetrating Depth, and Wondrous Response, of Benevolence and Kindness, Assisting the State and Protecting the People, Perfected Lord of Vast Grace (a Daoist honorific title, meaning the Superior Immortal who resides in the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, proclaims teaching and transformation and upholds Daoism, and who manifests numinous power, widely relieves, assists the state, and protects the people).

In all four quarters and every locality, shrines have been built for sacrifice to you; the lines of branching transmission are beyond counting. The radiance of your merit shines forth clearly and endures like the sun and moon. If one asks the local elders, they too, just as the stele inscriptions do, will recount your deeds.

The congregation chants in unison: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the De of the sage. May the holy perfected ones bestow their awesome radiance and examine the sincerity of our intentions. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme Dao.

With wholehearted devotion we take refuge and offer worship: Your De is commensurate with Heaven and Earth; your achievements may be compared with the sun and moon; your spiritual powers and wondrous functioning are inconceivable; you are upright and intelligent. Great in compassion and mercy, you have established a vast vow, coming in response according to the conditions and affinities of living beings, and you have sworn to save the people of the world.

Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Relieves, of Qingwei, Dongxuan, Penetrating Void, and Wondrous Brightness: great in compassion and mercy, you have established a vast vow, coming in response according to the conditions and affinities of living beings, and you have sworn to save the people of the world.

Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Relieves, of Qingwei, Dongxuan, Penetrating Void, and Wondrous Response, of Kindness and Beneficence, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, Perfected Lord of Vast Grace (a Daoist honorific title, meaning the Perfected Lord who manifests numinous power and widely relieves, who is kind, beneficent, and humane, and who protects the state and shelters the people).

With wholehearted devotion we take refuge and offer worship: Your majestic power shakes the thunder; your grace, like rain and dew, extends over all living beings. Your spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and your blessings and merit are without limit. Great in compassion and mercy, you have established a vast vow, coming in response according to the conditions and affinities of living beings, and you have sworn to save the people of the world.

The True Lord of Vast Grace (Hong'en Zhenjun), Superior Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Manifests the Numinous and Broadly Saves, Lofty and Brilliant, Vast and Serene, Void and Profound, Wondrously Responsive, Benevolent and Gracious, who Assists the State and Protects the People—an honorific title of a revered Daoist deity, extolling his propagation of teaching and transformation, his protection of the state and the people, and his gracious salvation of the world.

For four hundred years the True Lord has received the people’s offerings and worship. With sacrificial gifts made from fragrant hui-grass and with osmanthus wine, they offer devout worship. When they pray for rain, the omens obtained by divination are often fulfilled as surely as matching tallies; the True Lord’s grace and De (Virtue/Power) are rooted deep in human hearts and resonate in sympathy with Heaven and Earth.

In chorus: Now we devoutly praise the sacred De of the True Lord. May the True Lord bestow his divine majesty and numinous light, and look down upon the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, return to the supreme Dao (the Way).

With one heart, in sincere reverence, we take refuge and bow in worship: the True Lord’s De is the match of Heaven and Earth, so that the people of the world hold him in grateful remembrance, and he resonates with Heaven and Earth.

In chorus: Now we devoutly praise the sacred De of the True Lord. May the True Lord bestow his divine majesty and numinous light, and look down upon the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, return to the supreme Dao.

With one heart, in sincere reverence, we take refuge and bow in worship: the True Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared with the sun and moon; his numinous powers are wondrous in their working, and he is upright and wise; with great loving-kindness and great compassion he has established a vast vow, coming to respond according to the conditions and affinities of sentient beings, and swearing to save the people of the world.

The True Lord of Vast Grace, Great Immortal of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens who Illumines the Dao and Attains De, Manifests the Numinous and Universally Saves, Pure and Subtle, Penetrating the Mysterious, Empty and Void, Wondrous in Sympathetic Response, Kind and Gracious, who Protects the State and Shelters the People—another honorific title, extolling his manifestation of numinous power and his universal salvation, his kindness and grace in protecting the state, and his sheltering of the common people.

With one heart, in sincere reverence, we take refuge and bow in worship: the True Lord’s awesome power shakes the thunder, and his grace, like rain and dew, reaches all living beings; his numinous powers are free and unobstructed, his blessings and De boundless; with great loving-kindness and great compassion he has established a vast vow, coming to respond according to the conditions and affinities of sentient beings, and swearing to save the people of the world.

The True Lord of Vast Grace, Superior Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Manifests the Numinous and Broadly Saves, Lofty and Brilliant, Vast and Serene, Void and Profound, Wondrously Responsive, Benevolent and Gracious, who Assists the State and Protects the People.

The True Lord once caused the plants and trees of Gongshan to manifest numinous wonders, and thus received commendation in an imperial edict of the Jiaxi reign, his honor and favor made still greater. By a decree written in golden script, the court enfeoffed the True Lord as “Lingji” (Numinous Salvation). The temple that was built has endured a thousand years and stands supreme throughout the Seven Min (the region of Fujian).

In chorus: Now we devoutly praise the sacred De of the True Lord. May the True Lord bestow his divine majesty and numinous light, and look down upon the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, return to the supreme Dao.

With one heart, in sincere reverence, we take refuge and bow in worship: the True Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared with the sun and moon; his numinous powers are wondrous in their working, and he is upright and wise; with great loving-kindness and great compassion he has established a vast vow, coming to respond according to the conditions and affinities of sentient beings, and swearing to save the people of the world.

Of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, Qian and Kun… (Here the hymn continues in praise of the True Lord, whose De matches Heaven and Earth, whose merit joins that of the sun and moon, whose numinous powers are wondrous in their working, who is upright and wise, of great loving-kindness and great compassion, and who establishes a vow to save humankind.)

The Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens who Illumines the Dao (the Way) and Attains De (Virtue/Power), Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Brings Deliverance, of Qingwei and Dongxuan (the Cavern of Mystery), Penetrating the Void and Wondrously Responsive, Compassionate and Beneficent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People—the True Lord of Vast Grace, Hongen Zhenjun (he who resides at the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens and is renowned for promoting the Dao, bestowing De, and protecting the state and blessing the people).

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence I take refuge in the True Lord and bow in worship. The True Lord’s majestic power shakes the thunder; his grace spreads far and wide like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, his blessings and De without bound. His compassion is vast and his vows profound and deep; he comes in response according to the conditions of living beings, and he vows to deliver the people of the world.

The Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Displays Numinous Power and Broadly Brings Succor, Lofty and Luminous, Vastly Serene, Profound and Limpid, Wondrously Responsive, Humane and Kind, Assisting the State and Protecting the People—the True Lord of Vast Grace, Hongen Zhenjun (he who resides at the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, proclaims transformation and instruction, upholds the Daoist teaching, and assists the state and protects the people).

The towering stone pagoda rises straight into the clouds. The True Lord’s cultivation is complete and his meritorious work accomplished; through the karmic bonds of former days he has taken his lodging here. May only his Dharma-body (the body of Dharma-nature that transcends the fleshly body) abide forever without perishing, its light shining universally upon the three thousand worlds.

Chorus: Now I devoutly praise his holy De, and pray that the True Lord bestow his awe-inspiring radiance and look into the sincerity of my heart. May I, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme Great Dao.

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence I take refuge in the True Lord and bow in worship. The True Lord’s conduct in De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared with the sun and moon. Wondrous is the working of his spiritual powers; he is upright and perspicacious. His compassion is vast and his vows profound and deep; he comes in response according to the conditions of living beings, and he vows to deliver the people of the world.

The Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens who Illumines the Dao and Attains De manifests. May all together turn toward the supreme Great Dao.

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence I take refuge in the True Lord and bow in worship. The True Lord’s conduct in De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared with the sun and moon. Wondrous is the working of his spiritual powers; he is upright and perspicacious. His compassion is vast and his vows profound and deep; he comes in response according to the conditions of living beings, and he vows to deliver the people of the world.

The Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens who Illumines the Dao and Attains De, Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Brings Deliverance, of Qingwei and Dongxuan, Penetrating the Void and Wondrously Responsive, Compassionate and Beneficent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People—the True Lord of Vast Grace, Hongen Zhenjun.

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence I take refuge in the True Lord and bow in worship. The True Lord’s majestic power shakes the thunder; his grace spreads far and wide like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, his blessings and De without bound. His compassion is vast and his vows profound and deep; he comes in response according to the conditions of living beings, and he vows to deliver the people of the world.

The Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Displays Numinous Power and Broadly Brings Succor, Lofty and Luminous, Vastly Serene, Profound and Limpid, Wondrously Responsive, Humane and Kind, Assisting the State and Protecting the People—the True Lord of Vast Grace, Hongen Zhenjun.

Chan Master Dingying (an honorific title for a Chan master), the Buddha Pangu—from this I once discerned the principles of Chan. Letting myself enter straight into the realm of Suchness (the realm of true reality spoken of in Buddhism), the place of numinous clarity within the mind all at once opens into brightness.

Chorus: Now I devoutly praise his holy De, and pray that the True Lord bestow his awe-inspiring radiance and look into the sincerity of my heart. May I, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme Great Dao.

I once discerned the principles of Chan within it. Letting myself enter straight into the realm of Suchness, the place of numinous clarity within the mind all at once opens into brightness.

The chorus sings: Now we devoutly praise the grace and virtue of the sage. May the sage bestow majestic numinous light to illuminate and examine our sincere hearts. May we, together with all living beings, turn toward the supreme Dao (the Way).

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship. His sacred virtue matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared with the sun and moon. His spiritual powers and wondrous functions are upright and clear-sighted. Great in compassion and great in mercy, he has established vast vows, able to come in response as living beings require, and he has sworn to save the people of the world.

Of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, Illuminating the Dao and Attaining De (Virtue/Power), Great Immortal of Manifest Numinosity and Universal Succor, of Qingwei (Clear and Subtle) and Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery), of Penetrating Emptiness and Wondrous Resonance, of Compassionate Beneficence, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, True Lord of Vast Grace (honorific title of a revered Daoist deity).

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship. His divine majesty shakes the thunder, and his grace descends everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and his blessings and merit are boundless. Great in compassion and great in mercy, he has established vast vows, able to come in response as living beings require, and he has sworn to save the people of the world.

Of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, Proclaiming Transformation and Upholding the Teaching, Superior Immortal of Radiant Numinosity and Broad Succor, of Lofty Brilliance and Expansive Stillness, of Penetrating Limpidity and Wondrous Response, of Benevolent Beneficence, Assisting the State and Protecting the People, True Lord of Vast Grace (honorific title of a revered Daoist deity).

During the Jiading period, baleful insects filled the fields. People went to the shrine to pray that the disaster be averted and to repay the deity’s grace, and the calamity then moved south. That year, people dreamed of the omen of fish. Thereafter the five grains ripened in abundance, the granaries were heaped full, and it seemed this plenty might endure for ten thousand years.

The chorus sings: Now we devoutly praise the grace and virtue of the sage. May the sage bestow majestic numinous light to illuminate and examine our sincere hearts. May we, together with all living beings, turn toward the supreme Dao.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship. His sacred virtue matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared with the sun and moon. His spiritual powers and wondrous functions are upright and clear-sighted. Great in compassion and great in mercy, he has established vast vows, able to come in response as living beings require. May we, together with all living beings, turn toward the supreme Dao.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship. His sacred virtue matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared with the sun and moon. His spiritual powers and wondrous functions are upright and clear-sighted. Great in compassion and great in mercy, he has established vast vows, able to come in response as living beings require, and he has sworn to save the people of the world.

Of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, Illuminating the Dao and Attaining De, Great Immortal of Manifest Numinosity and Universal Succor, of Qingwei and Dongxuan, of Penetrating Emptiness and Wondrous Resonance, of Compassionate Beneficence, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, True Lord of Vast Grace (honorific title of a revered Daoist deity).

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship. His divine majesty shakes the thunder, and his grace descends everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and his blessings and merit are boundless. Great in compassion and great in mercy, he has established vast vows, able to come in response as living beings require, and he has sworn to save the people of the world.

Of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, Proclaiming Transformation and Upholding the Teaching, Superior Immortal of Radiant Numinosity and Broad Succor, of Lofty Brilliance and Expansive Stillness, of Penetrating Limpidity and Wondrous Response, of Benevolent Beneficence, Assisting the State and Protecting the People, True Lord of Vast Grace (honorific title of a revered Daoist deity).

At night the salt boat of Guangze met a great wind. The cables broke, and the boat lost its direction. With devout hearts the people burned a stick of incense, as if the deity stood before their eyes. The boat soon turned, and the waterway was open once more.

Now we sincerely praise the Sage’s gracious De (Virtue/Power), and pray that the Sage bestow awe-inspiring numinous power and perceive our sincerity. May all living beings together turn toward the supreme Dao (the Way).

With a single heart we take refuge and pay homage: your De matches Heaven and Earth, and your achievements may be compared with the sun and moon; your spiritual powers work wondrously, and you are upright and wise; with great compassion and great mercy you proclaim the sacred great vow, responding as living beings are moved, and you vow to save the people of the world.

The True Lord of Vast Mercy (Hong’en Zhenjun) of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens—Great Immortal Who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Who Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Brings Succor, of Qingwei (Pure Subtlety) and Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery), Empty and Profound, Wondrously Responsive, Compassionate and Beneficent, Who Protects the State and Shelters the People (the honorific title of a revered Daoist deity, in praise of his virtue of manifesting numinous power to aid the world and of protecting the state and sheltering the people).

With a single heart we take refuge and pay homage: your awesome might shakes the thunder, and your grace is spread everywhere like rain and dew; your spiritual powers are vast, and you have made the great vow to save all living beings, responding as living beings are moved, and you vow to save the people of the world.

The True Lord of Vast Mercy of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens—Great Immortal Who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Who Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Brings Succor, of Qingwei and Dongxuan, Empty and Profound, Wondrously Responsive, Compassionate and Beneficent, Who Protects the State and Shelters the People.

With a single heart we take refuge and pay homage: your awesome might shakes the thunder, and your grace is spread everywhere like rain and dew; your spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and your blessings and De are without bound; with great compassion and great mercy you have made the sacred great vow, responding as living beings are moved, and you vow to save the people of the world.

The True Lord of Vast Mercy of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens—Superior Immortal Who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Who Displays Numinous Power and Broadly Brings Succor, Lofty and Brilliant, Vast and Serene, Profound and Limpid, Wondrously Responsive, Benevolent and Beneficent, Who Assists the State and Protects the People (the honorific title of another True Lord of Vast Mercy, in praise of his proclaiming the teaching and transforming others, and of his protecting the state and sheltering the people).

Ignorant common people often fail to understand what is right. They will not rebuild a crooked chimney, nor move away the firewood piled beside it. Here the allusion to “bending the chimney and shifting the fuel” is used to show that people often will not heed advice, and regret it only when disaster is upon them.

Now the banners raised to fight the fire flash into view. The spirits lend secret aid, turning the wind and helping people escape danger.

Now we sincerely praise the Sage’s gracious De, and pray that the Sage bestow awe-inspiring numinous power and perceive our sincerity. May all living beings together turn toward the supreme Dao.

With a single heart we take refuge and pay homage: your De matches Heaven and Earth, and your achievements may be compared with the sun and moon; your spiritual powers work wondrously, and you are upright and wise; with great compassion and great mercy you proclaim the sacred great vow, responding as living beings are moved, and you vow to save the people of the world.

Of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, Illuminating the Dao and Attaining De, greatly taking refuge in the supreme Dao.

With a single heart we take refuge and pay homage: your De matches Heaven and Earth, and your achievements may be compared with the sun and moon; your spiritual powers work wondrously, and you are upright and wise; with great compassion and great mercy you proclaim the sacred great vow, responding as living beings are moved, and you vow to save the people of the world.

Hong’en Zhenjun, the True Lord of Vast Grace, Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens who illuminates the Dao (the Way) and fully realizes De (Virtue/Power), who manifests numinous power and brings universal aid, pure and subtle, of Dongxuan (one of the Three Caverns), of profound emptiness and wondrous response, of kindly grace, protector of the state and shelter of the people (Hong’en Zhenjun, who resides in the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens and whose office is to protect the state and bless the people)—his awesome might shakes the thunder, and his favor falls everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, his blessings and merit without bound. His compassion is vast and his vows profound; responding as conditions arise, he vows to save and deliver all people.

Hong’en Zhenjun, Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, who displays numinous power and broadly brings relief, of lofty grandeur and stillness, of limpid depth and wondrous response, of benevolent grace, who assists the state and protects the people (Hong’en Zhenjun, who resides in the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, proclaims moral transformation, and protects the state and its people).

It is said that Baoqing once suffered a severe drought, the fierce sun scorching the land as though it were consumed by fire. The people prayed with devout sincerity, offering gui and bi (jade vessels used in ancient sacrifice), and the deity, moved to respond, made himself manifest. The form of a red snake appeared upon the table; then thunder sounded, and rain poured down in torrents.

Response: Now we devoutly praise the merit and virtue of the Holy Lord, praying that the Holy Lord bestow his majestic radiance and look down upon our sincere hearts. Hong’en Zhenjun, of limpid depth and wondrous response, of benevolent grace, who assists the state and protects the people.

It is said that Baoqing once suffered a severe drought, the fierce sun scorching the land as though it were consumed by fire. The people prayed with devout sincerity, offering gui and bi, and the deity, moved to respond, made himself manifest. The form of a red snake appeared upon the table; then thunder sounded, and rain poured down in torrents.

Response: Now we devoutly praise the merit and virtue of the Holy Lord, praying that the Holy Lord bestow his majestic radiance and look down upon our sincere hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, alike turn toward the supreme Dao.

We devoutly take refuge in Hong’en Zhenjun: his De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared with the sun and moon; his spiritual powers and wondrous workings are upright and clear-sighted. His compassion is vast and his vows profound; responding as conditions arise, he vows to save and deliver all people.

Hong’en Zhenjun, Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens who illuminates the Dao and fully realizes De, who manifests numinous power and brings universal aid, pure and subtle, of Dongxuan, of profound emptiness and wondrous response, of kindly grace, protector of the state and shelter of the people.

We devoutly take refuge in Hong’en Zhenjun: his awesome might shakes the thunder, and his favor falls everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, his blessings and merit without bound. His compassion is vast and his vows profound; responding as conditions arise, he vows to save and deliver all people.

Hong’en Zhenjun, Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, who displays numinous power and broadly brings relief, of lofty illumination, expansive and still, of limpid depth and wondrous response, of benevolent grace, who assists the state and protects the people (Hong’en Zhenjun, who resides in the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, proclaims moral transformation, and protects the state and its people). His vows are great; responding as conditions arise, he vows to save and deliver all people.

Hong’en Zhenjun, Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, who displays numinous power and broadly brings relief, of lofty illumination, expansive and still, of limpid depth and wondrous response, of benevolent grace, who assists the state and protects the people.

It is said that at Qiangxia the people were traveling by boat through a perilous rapid strewn with reefs. When they reached the middle of the river, the oars came away, and at once a chill of fear seized them all. They hastily cried out the deity’s sacred name, and a yellow banner immediately appeared. No sooner had the call for help gone forth than rescue quickly arrived.

We now, with devout hearts, praise the merits of the Holy Lords. May the Holy Lords bestow their majestic radiance and clearly discern our sincerity. Together with all sentient beings, may we take refuge in the supreme Dao (the Way).

With sincere hearts we take refuge and pay homage: the Holy Lord’s virtue matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared with the sun and moon. His spiritual powers and wondrous workings are upright and keenly perceptive; his compassion is vast and his vows profound and far-reaching. He comes in response according to the needs of living beings and vows to save the people of the world.

He is the Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De (Virtue/Power); the True Lord of Vast Mercy who Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Brings Relief, of Pure Tenuity and Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery), Penetrating the Void, Wondrously Responsive, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and pay homage: the Holy Lord’s majestic power shakes the thunder, and his grace is spread abroad like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unconstrained, and his blessings and virtue are boundless; his compassion is vast and his vows profound and far-reaching. He comes in response according to the needs of living beings and vows to save the people of the world.

He is the Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching; the True Lord of Vast Mercy who Manifests Radiant Numinosity and Broadly Brings Relief, Lofty and Brilliant, Vast and Still, Empty and Profound, Wondrously Responsive, Humane and Kind, Assisting the State and Protecting the People.

During the Shaoding period, the waters of Yan Creek surged forth like a waterfall. The fields were flooded, causing deep anxiety. Later it was heard that divine troops set out and opened the waterways; and there was joy that a rich harvest was gained that year, with good yields of grain for three years in succession.

We now, with devout hearts, praise the merits of the Holy Lords. May the Holy Lords bestow their majestic radiance and clearly discern our sincerity. Together with all sentient beings, may we take refuge in the supreme Dao.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and pay homage: the Holy Lord’s virtue matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared with the sun and moon. His spiritual powers and wondrous workings are upright and keenly perceptive; his compassion is vast and his vows profound and far-reaching. He comes in response according to the needs of living beings and vows to save the people of the world.

He is the Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De; the True Lord of Vast Mercy who Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Brings Relief, of Pure Tenuity and Dongxuan, Penetrating the Void, Wondrously Responsive, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and pay homage: the Holy Lord’s majestic power shakes the thunder, and his grace is spread abroad like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unconstrained, and his blessings and virtue are boundless; his compassion is vast and his vows profound and far-reaching. He comes in response according to the needs of living beings and vows to save the people of the world.

He is the Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching; the True Lord of Vast Mercy who Manifests Radiant Numinosity and Broadly Brings Relief, Lofty and Brilliant, Vast and Still, Empty and Profound, Wondrously Responsive, Humane and Kind, Assisting the State and Protecting the People.

The world enjoys clear and upright governance, and its customs are pure and fair—why, then, has a comet appeared in the west?

To still calamities and dispel anomalies depends on the power of the deities. Why, merely because an inauspicious omen has appeared, should blame fall on the officials who keep the astronomical calendar and observe the heavens? This is praise of the divine power of the True Lord of Vast Grace, benevolent and kind, who assists the state and protects the people.

Chorus: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the holy virtue, and pray that the True Lord bestow his majestic radiance and clearly discern our sincerity. May all of us, together with every sentient being, take refuge in the supreme Dao (the Way).

With sincere hearts we take refuge and pay homage: The True Lord’s De (Virtue/Power) matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be set beside the sun and moon. His spiritual powers work wondrously; he is upright and wise, vast in compassion, and far-reaching in holy virtue. He vows to save living beings, coming in response according to what beings require, and pledges to deliver all people universally.

The True Lord of Vast Grace of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens—Great Immortal who clarifies the Dao and attains De, who manifests numinous power and broadly bestows relief, of the Qingwei and Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery), empty and subtle in wondrous response, benevolent and kind, protecting the state and sheltering the people (the Great Immortal who dwells in the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, illuminating the Great Dao and the practice of De, broadly bestowing relief through divine miracles: the True Lord who, benevolent and kind, protects the state and shelters the people).

With sincere hearts we take refuge and pay homage: The True Lord’s majesty shakes thunder and lightning, and his grace spreads as widely as rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, his blessings and De boundless, his compassion vast, his holy virtue far-reaching. He vows to save living beings, responding as conditions arise, and pledges to deliver all people universally.

The Supreme Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, whose numinous manifestation is illustrious and whose relief is broad, lofty in brilliance, vast in stillness, deep and clear in wondrous response, benevolent and kind, assisting the state and protecting the people, of Vast Grace—free and unobstructed, of boundless blessings and De, of great compassion, of great holiness and great vows, who comes to respond as circumstances require and vows to deliver people (the Supreme Immortal who dwells in the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, proclaiming moral transformation and supporting the Daoist teaching, whose spiritual responses are manifest and who broadly bestows relief, benevolent and kind in protecting the state and sheltering the people).

The True Lord of Vast Grace, Supreme Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, whose numinous manifestation is illustrious and whose relief is broad, lofty in brilliance, vast in stillness, deep and clear in wondrous response, benevolent and kind, assisting the state and protecting the people.

From ancient times, study and literary composition have been the way to rank and fame. The prophetic talismans and verses that appeared in the Shaoxing era (talismanic mandates and prophetic sayings foretelling good and ill fortune) manifested the revelation of the spirits. The governing achievements of the two prefects reflect one another; now they have both succeeded on the same examination roll, which is worthy of celebration.

Chorus: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the holy virtue, and pray that the True Lord bestow his majestic radiance and clearly discern our sincerity. May all of us, together with every sentient being, take refuge in the supreme Dao.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and pay homage: The True Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be set beside the sun and moon. His spiritual powers work wondrously; he is upright and wise, vast in compassion, and far-reaching in holy virtue. He comes in response according to what beings require, and pledges to save the people of the world.

The True Lord of Vast Grace of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens—Great Immortal who clarifies the Dao and attains De, who manifests numinous power and broadly bestows relief, of the Qingwei and Dongxuan, empty and subtle in wondrous response, benevolent and kind, protecting the state and sheltering the people.

I wholeheartedly take refuge in the Perfected Lord of Vast Grace. The Perfected Lord’s awe-inspiring might shakes the thunder, and his grace, like rain and dew, is bestowed throughout the human world. His spiritual powers are vast, and he manifests his numinous presence freely, bringing universal relief to all living beings. Of utmost purity and subtlety, he penetrates the Dongxuan (one of the Three Caverns); wondrous in his responses, loving, humane, and beneficent, he guards the state and shelters the people.

I wholeheartedly take refuge in the Perfected Lord of Vast Grace. His might shakes the thunder, and his grace is like rain and dew; his spiritual powers move in perfect freedom, and his blessings and De (Virtue/Power) are without limit. His compassion is vast and his vows profound. He comes in response according to the conditions of living beings, and he vows to save the people of the world.

He is a superior immortal of the Jade Palaces of the Nine Heavens (the palace halls of the celestial realm), who proclaims the transforming teaching and upholds Daoism, who makes spiritual efficacy manifest and widely dispenses relief, whose character is lofty, brilliant, and grandly upright, whose realm is clear, still, and profound, whose responses are mysterious and wondrous and whose kindness is humane and loving, who assists the state and protects the people: the Perfected Lord of Vast Grace.

Tradition tells that a man in vermilion robes conveyed a dream to two scholars. The Perfected Lord of Vast Grace rose to renown in the Jiading reign, carrying forward the deeds of the Shaoxing reign. After one jiazi (a jiazi being sixty years), Heaven’s destined reckoning was fulfilled, and the transmission of the Shusun line continued from generation to generation.

Chorus: Now we devoutly praise the sacred De of the Perfected Lord. May he bestow his awe-inspiring light and clearly discern the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, return as one to the supreme Dao (the Way).

I wholeheartedly pay homage to the Perfected Lord of Vast Grace. His De is matched with Heaven and Earth, and his achievements are as manifest as the sun and moon. His spiritual powers work wondrously, and he is upright and clear-sighted. His compassion is vast and his vows profound. He comes in response according to the conditions of living beings, and he vows to save the people of the world.

He is a great immortal of the Golden Palaces of the Nine Heavens (the palace halls of the celestial realm), who illumines the Dao and fully attains De, who manifests his numinous power and universally saves, who is of utmost purity and subtlety and penetrates the Dongxuan, wondrous and numinous in response, loving, humane, and beneficent, who guards the state and shelters the people: the Perfected Lord of Vast Grace.

I wholeheartedly pay homage to the Perfected Lord of Vast Grace. His might shakes the thunder, and his grace is like rain and dew; his spiritual powers move in perfect freedom, and his blessings and De are without limit. His compassion is vast and his vows profound. He comes in response according to the conditions of living beings, and he vows to save the people of the world.

I wholeheartedly pay homage to the Perfected Lord of Vast Grace. His might shakes the thunder, and his grace is like rain and dew; his spiritual powers move in perfect freedom, and his blessings and De are without limit. His compassion is vast and his vows profound. He comes in response according to the conditions of living beings, and he vows to save the people of the world.

He is a superior immortal in the Jade Palaces of the Nine Heavens, who proclaims the transforming teaching and upholds Daoism, who makes spiritual efficacy manifest and widely dispenses relief, whose character is lofty, brilliant, and grandly upright, whose realm is clear, still, and profound, whose responses are mysterious and wondrous and whose kindness is humane and loving, who assists the state and protects the people: the Perfected Lord of Vast Grace.

A man of true worth is ardent and magnanimous of heart, and sets his will on establishing merit and winning a name. How much more, then, as a gentleman-official of the court, ought he to bear responsibility as the constellations of heaven do. Receiving his charge in a dream, he rose, and in the end was given high employment as Fu Yue had been. Here the ancestral temple manifests the awe-inspiring efficacy of the divine.

Chorus: Now we devoutly praise the sacred De of the Perfected Lord. May he bestow his awe-inspiring light and clearly discern the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, return as one to the supreme Dao.

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence, I take refuge and bow in worship to this True Lord. His De (Virtue/Power) may be matched with Heaven and Earth, and his achievements stand alongside the sun and moon. His spiritual powers and wondrous functions are vast; he is upright and intelligent, deep in compassion, and great in holy virtue and vows. He comes in response according to the conditions of all living beings, and he has vowed to save the people of the world.

I bow in worship to the Great Immortal who Illumines the Dao (the Way) and Attains De, of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens (the celestial palaces)—who Manifests Spiritual Efficacy and Universally Aids, of Pure Subtlety and the Cavern of Mystery (Dongxuan), of Empty Void and Wondrous Response, of Kind Benevolence who Protects the Nation and Shelters the People, the True Lord of Vast Grace.

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence, I take refuge and bow in worship to this True Lord. His awesome might shakes the thunder; his grace descends like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and his blessings and merit are boundless. He is deep in compassion, great in holy virtue and vows, able to come in response according to the conditions of all living beings, and he has vowed to save the people of the world.

I bow in worship to the True Lord of Vast Grace of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens (the celestial palaces), who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds Benevolence, and who Protects the Nation and Shelters the People.

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence, I take refuge and bow in worship to this True Lord. His awesome might shakes the thunder; his grace descends like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and his blessings and merit are boundless. He is deep in compassion, great in holy virtue and vows, able to come in response according to the conditions of all living beings, and he has vowed to save the people of the world.

I bow in worship to the Superior Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching—who Manifests the Numinous and Broadly Aids, Lofty and Brilliant in Vast Stillness, of Penetrating Depth and Wondrous Response, of Humane Benevolence who Assists the Nation and Protects the People, the True Lord of Vast Grace.

Within the Circular Waters (a symbol of the ancient academy), figures in caps and robes flourished. Two families gave birth to worthy sons and congratulated one another. In the Jiaxi years, clever innate talent was revealed in the combined examinations. An auspicious dream conveyed an omen, and so this poem was written in praise of delighting in Heaven.

Chanted together: Now we devoutly praise the De of the sage. May the True Lord bestow the radiance of his awesome spiritual power and look down upon our sincere hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme Dao.

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence, I take refuge and bow in worship to this True Lord. His De may be matched with Heaven and Earth, and his achievements stand alongside the sun and moon. His spiritual powers and wondrous functions are vast; he is upright and intelligent, deep in compassion, and great in holy virtue and vows. He comes in response according to the conditions of all living beings, and he has vowed to save the people of the world.

May the True Lord bestow the radiance of his awesome spiritual power and look down upon our sincere hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, take refuge in the supreme Dao.

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence, I take refuge and bow in worship to this True Lord. His De may be matched with Heaven and Earth, and his achievements stand alongside the sun and moon. His spiritual powers and wondrous functions are vast; he is upright and intelligent, deep in compassion, and great in holy virtue and vows. He comes in response according to the conditions of all living beings, and he has vowed to save the people of the world.

I bow in worship to the Great Immortal who Illumines the Dao and Attains De, of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens—who Manifests Spiritual Efficacy and Universally Aids, of Pure Subtlety and the Cavern of Mystery, of Empty Void and Wondrous Response, of Kind Benevolence who Protects the Nation and Shelters the People, the True Lord of Vast Grace.

With wholehearted sincerity and reverence, I take refuge and bow in worship to this True Lord. His awesome might shakes the thunder; his grace descends like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and his blessings and merit are boundless. He is deep in compassion, great in holy virtue and vows, able to come in response according to the conditions of all living beings, and he has vowed to save the people of the world.

The Upper Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, the True Lord of Vast Grace—luminous and numinous, broadly succoring, lofty and brilliant, vast and serene, empty and profound, wondrously responsive, benevolent and kind—who assists the state and protects the people (Hong’en Zhenjun), a divine perfected being venerated in Daoism for protecting the country and blessing the people.

During the Xianchun reign, the emperor issued an edict putting into practice the local recommendation of talent (the system by which localities recommended able persons). Deities of their own preside over examination success and official honor. Over two months, auspicious omens were borne out month after month; Heaven’s hidden design seemed to spill from the tip of the brush, bringing with it the breath of spring.

Recited in chorus: the True Lord of Vast Grace who protects the country and blesses the people.

During the Xianchun reign, the emperor issued an edict putting into practice the local recommendation of talent. Deities of their own preside over examination success and official honor. Over two months, auspicious omens were borne out month after month; Heaven’s hidden design seemed to spill from the tip of the brush, bringing with it the breath of spring.

Recited in chorus: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the sacred De (Virtue/Power) of the True Lord. May the True Lord grant his divine majesty and numinous light, and clearly perceive the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme Dao (the Way).

With utmost sincerity we take refuge and bow in worship. The True Lord’s De is commensurate with Heaven and Earth, and his merit may be set beside the sun and moon. The wondrous working of his spiritual powers is upright and discerning. Of great mercy and great compassion, he has made a mighty vow: he comes and responds according to the opportunities of living beings, and he swears to deliver the people of the world.

The Great Immortal of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens who illumines the Dao and attains De, the True Lord of Vast Grace—manifesting numinous power and universally succoring, pure and subtle, fathoming the Cavern Mystery (Dongxuan), empty and void, wondrously sensitive, kind and gracious—who protects the country and shelters the people, a divine perfected being venerated in Daoism for protecting the country and sheltering the people.

With utmost sincerity we take refuge and bow in worship. The True Lord’s majesty shakes like thunder, and his grace descends upon all like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and his blessings and De are without bound. Of great mercy and great compassion, he has made a mighty vow: he comes and responds according to the opportunities of living beings, and he swears to deliver the people of the world.

The Upper Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, the True Lord of Vast Grace—luminous and numinous, broadly succoring, lofty and brilliant, vast and serene, empty and profound, wondrously responsive, benevolent and kind—who assists the state and protects the people.

With utmost sincerity we take refuge and bow in worship. The True Lord’s blessings and De are without bound. Of great mercy and great compassion, he has made a mighty vow: he comes and responds according to the opportunities of living beings, and he swears to deliver the people of the world.

The Upper Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, the True Lord of Vast Grace—luminous and numinous, broadly succoring, lofty and brilliant, vast and serene, empty and profound, wondrously responsive, benevolent and kind—who assists the state and protects the people.

He delighted in giving and set little store by wealth, and so was known as an elder. Some talk idly that the spirits of the unseen world do not come to lend their aid; yet the names in the ancestral shrine have been passed down through the ages. In six generations of the family, members attained success in the examinations, and five rose to the rank of grandee.

Recited in chorus: Now, with devout hearts, we praise the sacred De of the True Lord. May the True Lord grant his divine majesty and numinous light, and clearly perceive the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme Dao.

With utmost sincerity we take refuge and bow in worship. The True Lord’s De is commensurate with Heaven and Earth, and his merit may be set beside the sun and moon. The wondrous working of his spiritual powers is upright and discerning. Of great mercy and great compassion, he has made a mighty vow: he comes and responds according to the opportunities of living beings, and he swears to deliver the people of the world.

The honorific “Great Immortal of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, Who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De (Virtue/Power), Manifests Spiritual Power and Broadly Saves, of Qingwei (Pure Subtlety), Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery), and Chongxu (Empty Void), Wondrously Responsive, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the Nation and Sheltering the People, True Lord of Vast Grace” is a title of reverence for Hong’en Zhenjun (the True Lord of Vast Grace). It praises him for manifesting spiritual power to rescue all living beings, protecting the nation and bringing peace to the people, while also embodying such sacred Daoist realms as Qingwei, Dongxuan, and Chongxu.

With sincere hearts we take refuge in and pay reverence to Hong’en Zhenjun: your awesome power shakes the thunder, and your grace is bestowed everywhere like rain and dew. Your spiritual powers are free and unimpeded, and your blessings and virtue are without limit. Your compassion is vast, your holy virtue profound, and your vows magnificent. You can respond according to what all beings need, and you vow to save the people of the world.

“Supreme Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, Who Proclaims Transformation and Supports the Teaching, Manifests Spiritual Power and Broadly Saves, Lofty and Brilliant, Vast and Still, Profound and Limpid, Wondrously Responsive, and Benevolent” is another honorific of Hong’en Zhenjun. It extols him for proclaiming moral transformation and supporting the Daoist teaching in the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, for manifesting spiritual power to save the world, for virtue that is lofty, brilliant, and vast, for a mind that is deep, secluded, and clear, and for responses that are wondrous, together with benevolence and loving-kindness. He nourishes all beings with grace like rain and dew; his spiritual powers are free, his blessings and virtue boundless, his compassion vast, and his vows magnificent. He manifests in response to the prayers of all beings and vows to save the people of the world.

“Supreme Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, Who Proclaims Transformation and Supports the Teaching, Manifests Spiritual Power and Broadly Saves, Lofty and Brilliant, Vast and Still, Profound and Limpid, Wondrously Responsive and Benevolent, Assisting the Nation and Protecting the People, True Lord of Vast Grace” means that this supreme immortal manifests spiritual power to save the world and supports moral transformation, assists the state, protects the common people, and bestows vast and great grace.

Your regulations and exemplary model are like those of the Dou family of Yanshan, handed down from generation to generation; the red osmanthus blooms one after another, its five branches flourishing. The family accumulates goodness and has worthy successors; auspicious signs are conveyed in dreams, and excellent children are born. Here the allusion to the Dou family of Yanshan, whose accumulated virtue brought distinction to their descendants, is used to praise the long-enduring blessings of a household that accumulates goodness.

Chanted in unison: Now, with devotion, we praise your holy virtue and pray that you bestow divine majesty and radiance and discern the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all living beings, take refuge in the supreme Great Dao.

With sincere hearts we take refuge in and pay reverence to Hong’en Zhenjun: your virtue matches Heaven and Earth, and your merit may be compared with the sun and moon. Your spiritual powers work wondrously, and you are upright and clear-sighted. Your compassion is vast, your holy virtue profound, and your vows magnificent. You respond according to the needs of all beings and vow to save the people of the world.

“Great Immortal of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, Who Illuminates the Dao and Attains De, Manifests Spiritual Power and Broadly Saves, of Qingwei, Dongxuan, and Chongxu, Wondrously Responsive, Compassionate and Benevolent, Protecting the Nation and Sheltering the People, True Lord of Vast Grace” is an honorific for Hong’en Zhenjun. It praises him for manifesting spiritual power to save all beings, for compassion and benevolence, and for guarding the nation and sheltering the people.

With sincere hearts we take refuge in and pay reverence to Hong’en Zhenjun: your awesome power shakes the thunder, and your grace is bestowed everywhere like rain and dew. Your spiritual powers are free and unimpeded, and your blessings and virtue are without limit. Your compassion is vast and your vows magnificent. You manifest in response to the prayers of all beings and vow to save the people of the world.

With sincere hearts we take refuge in and pay reverence to Hong’en Zhenjun: your awesome power shakes the thunder, and your grace is bestowed everywhere like rain and dew. Your spiritual powers are free and unimpeded, and your blessings and virtue are without limit. Your compassion is vast and your vows magnificent. You manifest in response to the prayers of all beings and vow to save the people of the world.

“Supreme Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, Who Proclaims Transformation and Supports the Teaching, Manifests Spiritual Power and Broadly Saves, Lofty and Brilliant, Vast and Still, Profound and Limpid, Wondrously Responsive and Benevolent, Assisting the Nation and Protecting the People, True Lord of Vast Grace” means that this supreme immortal proclaims moral transformation and supports the Daoist teaching, manifests spiritual power to save the world, assists the nation and protects the people, and bestows vast and great grace.

A fine net is woven of blue cloth, its azure threads interlaced like gauze; the red dust of the world is transformed into brocade, and upon the brocade still more splendor is added. From ancient times, Fuchen (talismanic mandates and portents that foretell good fortune) have often displayed auspicious signs. May the spirits bestow their grace, so that blessings descend upon thousands of households.

Together, all chant: Now, with reverent hearts, we praise the De (Virtue/Power) of the Sage, and pray that the Sage’s majestic numinous power may look upon this sincerity. May we, together with all living beings, turn toward the supreme and unsurpassed Great Dao (the Way).

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship: Your De matches Heaven and Earth, and your achievements may be compared with the sun and moon. Your spiritual powers are wondrous in their workings; you are upright and wise; your compassion is vast, and your great vows are profound. In accord with the conditions of living beings, you come forth in response, and you have vowed to save the people of the world.

Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who illumines the Dao and attains De, who manifests the numinous and universally succors, of Pure Tenuity, Dongxuan (Cavern Mystery), penetrating emptiness, and wondrous resonance, of compassionate favor, who protects the state and shelters the people: True Lord of Vast Grace (Hongen Zhenjun).

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship: Your majestic power shakes the thunder, and your gracious favor descends like rain and dew. Your spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and your blessings and De are boundless. Your compassion is vast, and your great vows are profound. In accord with the conditions of living beings, you come forth in response, and you have vowed to save the people of the world.

Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens, who proclaims transformation and upholds the teaching, who displays the numinous and broadly succors, lofty and brilliant, vast and still, empty and profound, of wondrous response and benevolent favor, who assists the state and protects the people: True Lord of Vast Grace.

The source of the Dao is vast and without limit, and it comes from Heaven above. The River Chart and the Luo Writing (legendary diagrams and texts said to reveal the patterns of Heaven and Earth) have been transmitted from generation to generation. Heaven protects civilization, so that the Dao of the sages and worthies has not been lost. People eagerly praise and pass it on, calling Lingbao (Numinous Treasure) the immortal perfected one who fully comprehends culture and teaching.

Together, all chant: Now, with reverent hearts, we praise the De of the Sage, and pray that the Sage’s majestic numinous power may look upon this sincerity. May we, together with all living beings, turn toward the supreme and unsurpassed Great Dao.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship: Your De matches Heaven and Earth, and your achievements may be compared with the sun and moon. Your spiritual powers are wondrous in their workings; you are upright and wise; your compassion is vast, and your great vows are profound. In accord with the conditions of living beings, you come forth in response, and you have vowed to save the people of the world.

Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens, who illumines the Dao and attains De, who manifests the numinous and universally succors, of Pure Tenuity, Dongxuan, penetrating emptiness, and wondrous resonance, of compassionate favor, who protects the state and shelters the people: True Lord of Vast Grace.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship: Your majestic power shakes the thunder, and your gracious favor descends like rain and dew. Your spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and your blessings and De are boundless. Your compassion is vast, and your great vows are profound. In accord with the conditions of living beings, you come forth in response, and you have vowed to save the people of the world, and with benevolence and gracious favor to protect the state and shelter the people.

With utmost sincerity we take refuge in and reverently honor the True Lord of Vast Grace (Hong’en Zhenjun). The True Lord’s majestic power shakes the thunder; his grace descends everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and his blessings and virtue are vast. Boundlessly compassionate, lofty in sacred virtue, and profound in his vows, he is able to come to the rescue in response to living beings, and he has sworn to save the people of the world.

In the Jade Palaces of the Nine Heavens (the palaces of the celestial realm), the superior immortal who proclaims the transformative teaching and upholds Daoism bears the title Illustriously Numinous, Broadly Delivering, Lofty and Brilliant, Vastly Still, Profoundly Clear, Wondrously Responsive, and Benevolent and Kind, Assisting the State and Protecting the People, True Lord of Vast Grace.

When the mind within is tranquil, plain, and empty, the wondrous naturally manifests; only by continually accumulating merit and cultivating good deeds can one become a Perfected Person (Zhenren). In silence he transmits the secrets of longevity in the Huangting Jing (Scripture of the Yellow Court, an important Daoist classic), leaving me free to mount the jade wheel and ascend to the celestial realm.

We now devoutly praise the sacred virtue of the True Lord. May the True Lord bestow his awe-inspiring numinous power and examine the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme and unsurpassed Dao (the Way).

With utmost sincerity we take refuge in and reverently honor the True Lord. The True Lord’s virtue matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements may be compared to the sun and moon; his spiritual powers are wondrous in their application, and he is upright and wise. Boundlessly compassionate, lofty in sacred virtue, and profound in his vows, he is able to come to the rescue in response to living beings, and he has sworn to save the people of the world.

With utmost sincerity we take refuge in and reverently honor the True Lord. His virtue matches Heaven and Earth and his achievements may be compared to the sun and moon; he possesses wondrous spiritual efficacy and is, in his person, upright and wise. Boundlessly compassionate, lofty in sacred virtue, and profound in his vows, he comes in response to living beings and swears to save the people of the world.

In the Golden Palaces of the Nine Heavens (the palaces of the celestial realm), the great immortal who illuminates the Dao and cultivates De (Virtue/Power) bears the title Manifestly Numinous, Universally Delivering, Pure and Subtle, Penetrating the Mystery, Empty and Void, Wondrously Resonant, and Compassionate and Kind, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, True Lord of Vast Grace.

With utmost sincerity we take refuge in and reverently honor the True Lord of Vast Grace. The True Lord’s majestic power shakes the thunder; his grace descends everywhere like rain and dew. His spiritual powers are free and unhindered, and his blessings and virtue are boundless. Boundlessly compassionate, lofty in sacred virtue, and profound in his vows, he is able to come to the rescue in response to living beings, and he has sworn to save the people of the world.

In the Jade Palaces of the Nine Heavens, the superior immortal who proclaims the transformative teaching and upholds Daoism bears the title Illustriously Numinous, Broadly Delivering, Lofty and Brilliant, Vastly Still, Profoundly Clear, Wondrously Responsive, and Benevolent and Kind, Assisting the State and Protecting the People, True Lord of Vast Grace.

The True Lord’s name is recorded in the Golden Palace, and his appellation shines with illustrious splendor. He studied under the Imperial Lord of Eastern Florescence (Donghua Dijun) and received the instruction of Patriarch Zhengyang (Zhengyang Zushi). In Heaven he oversees celestial patterns and related affairs, holds charge of the registers of emolument, and assists the Imperial Lord Wenchang (Wenchang Dijun, the deity who presides over literary fortune and official rank).

We now devoutly praise the sacred virtue of the True Lord. May the True Lord bestow his awe-inspiring numinous power and examine the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme and unsurpassed Dao.

With utmost sincerity we take refuge in and reverently honor the True Lord, praying that the True Lord’s virtue may be matched with flourishing prosperity.

We now devoutly praise the sacred virtue of the True Lord. May the True Lord bestow his awe-inspiring numinous power and examine the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme and unsurpassed Dao.

With sincere heart I take refuge and bow in homage: the True Lord’s De (Virtue/Power) matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements shine as bright as the sun and moon. His divine powers work with wondrous effect; he is upright and wise, vast in compassion, and profound in his vows. He comes in response to the conditions of all living beings and vows to save the people of the world.

He is the Great Immortal of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens (the abode of the Celestial Emperor), who illuminates the Dao (the Way) and fully attains De; who manifests efficacious signs and bestows relief on all; of pure subtlety and Dongxuan (the Cavern of Mystery), of empty stillness and wondrous resonance; of compassionate kindness, protecting the nation and sheltering the people—the True Lord of Vast Grace (Hong’en Zhenjun).

With sincere heart I take refuge and bow in homage: the True Lord’s majestic power shakes the thunder, and his grace spreads as widely as rain and dew. His divine powers are free and unhindered, his blessings and merit without bound; he is vast in compassion and profound in his vows. He comes in response to the conditions of all living beings and vows to save the people of the world.

He is the Superior Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens (the palaces of the celestial realm), who proclaims transformation through teaching and upholds the Daoist tradition; whose miracles are illustrious and who widely bestows relief; lofty and bright, broad and still, deep and purely empty; of wondrous response and benevolent kindness, assisting the state and protecting the people—the True Lord of Vast Grace.

In silence he penetrates the mysterious learning of the Dao, cultivating in the Cavern of Eastern Florescence. He takes his place among the court ranks of the Jade Palace and pays homage to Ziwei (the palace where the star officials of the celestial realm and the Imperial Lord reside). The Immortal Elder of the South Pole presides over the recording of births and the extension of life; he holds the rank of chief minister and also oversees the various offices of the Earth Prefecture.

Recited in unison: Now, with devotion, we praise the De of the holy True One. May he bestow the radiant light of his divine majesty and examine the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, alike take refuge in the supreme Great Dao.

With sincere heart I take refuge and bow in homage: the True Lord’s De matches Heaven and Earth, and his achievements shine as bright as the sun and moon. His divine powers work with wondrous effect; he is upright and wise, vast in compassion, and profound in his vows. He comes in response to the conditions of all living beings and vows to save the people of the world.

The Great Immortal of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, who illuminates the Dao and fully attains De, manifests spiritual power and universally saves; of pure subtlety and Dongxuan, of empty stillness and wondrous resonance. His divine powers work with wondrous effect; he is upright and wise, vast in compassion, and profound in his vows. He comes in response to the conditions of all living beings and vows to save the people of the world.

The Great Immortal of the Golden Palace of the Nine Heavens, who illuminates the Dao and fully attains De; who manifests spiritual power and universally saves; of pure subtlety and Dongxuan, of empty stillness and wondrous resonance; of compassionate kindness, protecting the nation and sheltering the people—the True Lord of Vast Grace.

With sincere heart I take refuge and bow in homage: the True Lord’s majestic power shakes the thunder, and his grace spreads as widely as rain and dew. His divine powers are free and unhindered, his blessings and merit without bound; he is vast in compassion and profound in his vows. He comes in response to the conditions of all living beings and vows to save the people of the world.

The Superior Immortal of the Jade Palace of the Nine Heavens, who proclaims transformation through teaching and upholds the Daoist tradition; whose miracles are illustrious and who widely bestows relief; lofty and bright, broad and still, deep and purely empty; of wondrous response and benevolent kindness, assisting the state and protecting the people—the True Lord of Vast Grace.

The ninth month falls precisely at the Festival of Extended Longevity. The clouds and mists part, and the Golden Palace appears above the blue heavens. Now, in the Hall of Eternal Life, I respectfully bow in homage, wishing that the Holy Lord’s auspicious clouds, like those of Emperor Yao, may long protect the world, and that blessings and longevity may extend for a million years.

In chorus: Now we devoutly praise the sage’s De (Virtue/Power), praying that the sage bestow divine majesty and radiance and look upon the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme and unsurpassed Dao (the Way).

With sincere hearts we take refuge and pay homage: Your De is matched with Heaven and Earth, and your achievements may be compared with the sun and moon. Your numinous powers and wondrous workings are inexhaustible, and in character you are upright and wise. Your compassion is vast and your vows profound and far-reaching. You come in response according to the conditions of living beings, and you vow to save the people of the world.

We respectfully pay homage to the Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens who Illumines the Dao and Attains De, and to the one who Manifests Numinous Power and Universally Delivers, of the Clear and Subtle Dongxuan (Cavern of Mystery), Penetrating Emptiness and Wondrous Response, compassionate toward Qian and Kun; whose merit partakes of the sun and moon, whose numinous powers and wondrous functions are proclaimed, who is upright and intelligent, of great compassion and great mercy, of great holiness and great vows, who comes in response as conditions arise, and who vows to deliver humankind.

Great Immortal of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens who Illumines the Dao and Attains De, Manifesting Numinous Power and Universally Delivering, of the Clear and Subtle Dongxuan, Penetrating Emptiness and Wondrous Response, of Compassionate Grace, Protecting the State and Sheltering the People, True Lord of Vast Grace.

We respectfully pay homage: Your awesome might shakes the thunder, and your grace is bestowed as widely as rain and dew. Your numinous powers move in freedom, and your blessings and merit are boundless. Your compassion is vast and your vows profound and far-reaching. You come in response according to the conditions of living beings, and you vow to save the people of the world.

Superior Immortal of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens who Proclaims Transformation and Upholds the Teaching, Manifesting Numinous Power and Broadly Delivering, of Lofty Brilliance and Vast Stillness, Penetrating Depth and Wondrous Response, of Benevolent Grace, Assisting the State and Blessing the People, True Lord of Vast Grace.

Joyfully we meet this grand occasion, the Zhongyuan Festival. The gods descend upon Mount Songgao and bring forth the numinous Qi (vital energy) of the great earth. Incense smoke curls from the golden censer of the Jade Portal, and colored clouds bear up the Old Man Star.

In chorus: Now we devoutly praise the sage’s De, praying that the sage bestow divine majesty and radiance and look upon the sincerity of our hearts. May we, together with all sentient beings, turn toward the supreme and unsurpassed Dao.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and pay homage: You dwell in the Hall of Numinous Deliverance and within the Hall of Festive Joy. By nature humble, gentle, and yielding, your grace is as deep and thick as the earth. Diligent in ordering the household, you bring inner De and meritorious virtue to fulfillment. Clad in feathered adornments and a carriage canopy, dressed in colored robes, you are ranked among the female immortals of Goushi; and in golden houses and jade chambers you once received the Huangting Jing (Scripture of the Yellow Court) before the Lady of the Southern Marchmount. Your grace reaches all living beings, and offerings to you will continue for a hundred generations. Supremely holy and supremely numinous, supremely yielding and supremely still, you are the Immortal Consort, Lady of the State of Jing, Compliant Aid, Benevolent Grace, and Chaste Response.

A golden crown is worn upon the head, adorned with the seven stars; seven dragons and five phoenixes come in succession to offer welcome. May sweet immortal waters, like jade liquor and golden nectar, be sprinkled forth and transformed into the gracious rain and dew of the human world.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship. In the Hall of Festive Joy of the Lingji Palace (the temple enshrining the Lingji True Lords and other deities), the lady personally upholds frugality, and in managing affairs she is diligent and burdened with care. By her worthy De (Virtue/Power) she becomes a fine model for later generations and also a support to the ceremonial exemplar of the empress. What the “Guanju” praises is the obtaining of a virtuous and gentle woman, one who harbors no heart of perversity or private solicitation; a worthy consort who assists the ruler at cockcrow likewise embodies the principle that admonition and warning bring one another to completion. She assists in the affairs of the palace; her merit is accomplished, and her gracious De extends to all living beings. The Lady of the State of Wei—most holy and most numinous, most yielding and most still—is skilled at supporting the ruler, kind and benevolent, respectful and composed: she is an immortal consort.

We specially request the Jade Maidens (female immortals who attend the deities) to convey this on our behalf, wishing that she occupy the proper seat of the inner palace and possess the four forms of instruction within the palace. The myriad things depend on her in order to grow, and nothing fails to receive her benefit; she is most yielding and most still, matched with the fundamental De of the earth.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship. In the Hall of Kinship and Concord of the Lingji Palace, the father’s sternness has nothing that can compare with it; what the father is paired with is Heaven. One ought to know that the kindness of father and mother is hard to repay in full, and that there is of itself the principle of honoring parents and respecting elders. Moreover, he was invested as a king, making manifest the achievements of civil ministers and military officers; in founding the state and establishing the family, he alone bore a weighty charge like that of Yi Yin and the Duke of Zhou. His merit preserved the state and its altars, and his blessings extend to sons and grandsons: the Divine Father, True Lord Qi Wang Zhongwu Yiliang—most holy and most numinous, most exalted and most stern.

Before the father’s courtyard we respectfully hear the teachings of the Odes and Documents; the rules of the household, under the mother’s assistance, are especially strict and clear. For a time in the hall we emulate Laizi, donning colorful robes and playing to delight our parents, wishing them a longevity of ten thousand years, and we raise the sigong (an ancient ritual vessel for holding wine) to offer a toast of blessing.

With sincere hearts we take refuge and bow in worship. In the Hall of Kinship and Concord of the Lingji Palace, the mother is worthy, wise, and good; she vows to uphold the De of yielding compliance, gentle composure, and single-minded devotion, dwelling upright in the proper seat of the inner palace and accomplishing the merit of assistance. By the De of frugality she instructs the many, and her great achievements are set down in song; she cultivates the rites and regulations of the court so that moral transformation may be carried out, and her fragrant name shines in the historical records. Mindful of the mother’s loving kindness, we respectfully express the household’s celebration through ritual: the Divine Mother, Immortal Consort Renshou Shushan—most holy and most numinous, most compassionate and most loving.

The toilsome grace of the mother’s nurturing we dare not forget; her Kun De (the broad, generous, yielding, and compliant virtue of the earth) is vast without limit. Forever we follow the teachings of our loving mother, transmit the rules of the household, and chant the four stanzas of the poem “Si Qi.”

With wholehearted reverence we honor the supremely compassionate Jun’ai Divine Mother, the Immortal Consort of Benevolent Longevity and Virtuous Goodness.

The grace of a mother’s toil in raising her children we dare never forget. Great Kun De (Virtue/Power as broad and generous as the earth) is vast without limit. We forever follow our compassionate mother’s teachings, hand on the rules of the household, and chant the odes in the Shijing (Classic of Poetry) that praise worthy mothers.

With wholehearted refuge and ritual reverence we honor the commandery princes in the Qinmu Hall (Hall of Kinship and Harmony) of Lingji Palace. Among the brothers there is intimacy and concord: they answer one another as the xun and chi sound in concert, and they support one another like wings that bear each other up. They combine literary talent with military strategy; elder brothers are amiable and younger brothers respectful, and affection and duty are fittingly measured. Granted lands and each entrusted with a domain, they enjoy the honor of guarding their fiefs and increasing their stipend estates. Their virtue is lofty and their achievements conspicuous; invested as princes on the same day, their glory is extraordinary. Among the kin there is harmony and mutual closeness, no resentment between them, and generosity to spare. We pay homage to the supremely sacred and supremely numinous, supremely friendly and supremely loving divine elder brothers, the commandery princes.

Before the Hua’e Tower, the Tower of Flowering Calyxes, lies the homeland of accumulated goodness. In that year the brothers were enfeoffed as princes on the same day, in glory beyond compare. The whole household was renowned for filial piety, fraternal respect, and mutual affection, and it left behind noble integrity; their favor has been transmitted for a thousand years, and for this reason the Qinmu Hall endures in people’s hearts.

With wholehearted refuge and ritual reverence we honor the holy consorts in the Yanxi Hall (Hall of Festive Joy) of Lingji Palace. Their garments are neat and dignified, and curtains of fine silk are arranged in due order; within the household they are honored as its mistresses and receive the regard shown to Lady Zhong. Famed for literary talent, they long possessed the reputation of Xie Daoyun, a gifted woman of the Eastern Jin; distinguished also for virtue, they share the moral excellence of Lady Zhong, a woman known for worthy conduct. They themselves observe the Four Teachings proper to women—virtue, speech, bearing, and needlework—and their blessings extend to the people. We pay homage to the supremely sacred and supremely numinous, supremely gentle and supremely serene consorts of the divine elder brothers.

They serve their compassionate mother and bring her joy; the brothers love one another, and the whole hall is filled with mild harmony, laughter, and cheerful voices. Within the household, high and low stand in order, and the family code is transmitted from generation to generation. The slightest lapse of propriety is like wearing a cap contrary to ritual and therefore being unable to enter the gate of the home. This sentence takes as its comparison the saying that a cap worn awry does not enter the cottage, stressing that the ritual law of the household must not be transgressed.

With wholehearted refuge and ritual reverence we honor the descendants of dukes and marquises in the Qinmu Hall of Lingji Palace. Later generations receive the blessings of their forebears, and a fragrant name endures for a hundred generations; among sons and nephews the worthy arise one after another, as graceful and fragrant as irises and orchids. The splendor shared by grandparents and grandchildren brings joy, and the honor handed down through the ages still continues. Thus we sing the poem “Getan,” which praises the womanly virtue of diligent care of the household, and we chant the virtue of “Zhongsi,” in which the locust’s many offspring symbolize descendants in abundance. We pay homage to the supremely sacred and supremely numinous, supremely compliant and supremely reverent divine sons and grandsons, the dukes and marquises.

A pure family tradition still instructs those who come after; their reputation is illustrious and casts glory upon the household. The lineages of dukes and marquises have their own transmission of worthiness and goodness, and this blessed virtue is found, in the end, embodied in sons and grandsons.

With wholehearted devotion I turn toward and reverently honor the deities within Lingji Hall and in the Hall of Kinship and Concord (Qinmutang). They teach the great principles of human relationships and urge people to treat the members of their clan with closeness and harmony. They receive and enjoy the emoluments bestowed by Heaven, rising from a thousand zhong to ten thousand zhong; in the granting of fiefs they rank among the feudal lords—those of the same surname were enfeoffed first, and later those of different surnames as well. They both received the deep affection of General Liu and understood the worthy virtue of Duke Fu of Zheng, who cultivated himself with caution. In their time their reputations were illustrious, and the grace of their rewards extended to later generations. Supremely holy and supremely numinous, supremely close in kinship and supremely benevolent, they are the Divine Maternal Uncles and the Divine Sons-in-law, ranked among dukes and marquises.

The maternal uncle of Weiyang is kin on the mother’s side. I have known his virtue to be as bright and pure as pearl and jade, cautious and worthy, his reputation illustrious, the grace of his rewards extending to later generations. The supremely holy and supremely numinous, supremely close in kinship and supremely benevolent Divine Maternal Uncles and Divine Sons-in-law rank among dukes and marquises.

He once understood virtue as bright and pure as pearl and jade, and he also composed a preface for the Collected Works of Changli, so that the writings of Li Han thereby circulated widely.

With wholehearted devotion I turn toward and reverently honor the deities in Lingji Palace and within the Hall of Festive Joy (Yanxitang). They set the inner chambers in order and make the rites and regulations strict and clear. They weave cloth both coarse and fine, devoting themselves to women’s needlework; they gather duckweed and water plants, and teach others by placing wifely virtue first. In ritual propriety one ought to serve one’s parents-in-law, and in filial devotion one does not forget one’s own parents. Supremely holy and supremely numinous, reverent and gentle, they are Divine Daughters and Divine Wives, ranked among the immortal consorts (xianfei).

They follow the teachings in the seven chapters of the Nüjie (Admonitions for Women) and comply in accordance with ritual; they reverently serve their parents-in-law and also honor and love their own parents. Wearing the kerchiefs and fragrant herbs bestowed upon them, they diligently manage the household, reverent and compliant, their bearing solemn and dignified.

With wholehearted devotion I turn toward and reverently honor the deities within Lingji Hall and in the Hall of Festive Joy. They roam freely among the cloud curtains and enjoy wealth and honor like that of the Moon Palace. Their dress is orderly and splendid: they wear embroidered robes and are draped in skirts patterned with cassia wood; their bearing is lofty, they are adorned with bright pearls, and they wear gold ornaments and kingfisher jade upon their heads. They are beautiful and magnificent, gentle, refined, and radiant. May they manifest a numinous grace like that of the Goddess of Mount Wu, and long remain an auspicious blessing of the blessed land. Supremely holy and supremely numinous, free and at ease, they are the various Ladies of the Holy Kin (shengjuan furen) of the hall.

Throughout the courtyard they wear pearl-studded shoes and golden hairpins; their features are full and lovely, their aspirations lofty, and their character worthy, gentle, chaste, and upright. Like the noblewomen of antiquity who gathered duckweed at the water’s edge and attended to ritual affairs, they are unlike the Lady of Guo and the Lady of Qin, who relied upon the power of the empress’s kin.

With wholehearted devotion I turn toward and reverently honor the numinous Ladies of the Holy Kin.

Throughout the courtyard they wear pearl-studded shoes and golden hairpins; their features are full and lovely, their aspirations lofty, and their character worthy, gentle, chaste, and upright. Like the noblewomen of antiquity who gathered duckweed at the water’s edge and attended to ritual affairs, they are unlike the Lady of Guo and the Lady of Qin, who relied upon the power of the empress’s kin.

With wholehearted sincerity I take refuge and offer worship: within Lingji Hall and in Yanxi Hall, the Sun is in charge of the hun soul and the Moon is in charge of the po soul; the deity Taiyi administers the statutes that watch over life, and the deity Tianyi holds the office of registering life. The stellar mansions coalesce their Jing (essence), and by resonance with the star Changgeng a dream is granted; the mountains and rivers nurture spiritual excellence, and there is joy that Mount Song sends down its spirit. Heaven sends an auspicious omen like the qilin, which becomes a beloved infant in the human world. The Divine Consort Taiyi who supervises birth, the Divine Consort Tianyi who registers birth, and all the ladies who belong to them are supremely holy and supremely numinous; every prayer is answered, and they come as soon as feeling stirs.

An auspicious omen is received in dream, and with joy a boy is born; the elegant spiritual Qi (vital energy) of Aofeng shines forth with auspicious light. Sons beget grandsons, and grandsons in turn beget sons; the family flourishes and prospers through the generations.

With wholehearted sincerity I take refuge and offer worship: in the temple court of Longshou and the sacred realm of Aofeng, they hold authority over the hundred officials and rank among the Nine Ministers (high officials of antiquity). Silu (the divine office in charge of salary and of the blessings of rank and fortune) is the deity by whom the Stellar Lord Wenchang weighs emolument and allotted fate, protecting the family’s prosperity generation after generation.

With wholehearted sincerity I take refuge and offer worship: in the temple court of Longshou and the sacred realm of Aofeng, they hold authority over the hundred officials and rank among the Nine Ministers. Silu is the deity by whom the Stellar Lord Wenchang weighs emolument and allotted fate, while Sifu (the divine office in charge of one’s share of blessing) is the sovereign who registers birth. Following the auspicious blessings spoken of in the Hongfan (a chapter of an ancient classic that discusses governing the state and blessings and virtue)—longevity, prosperity, and health and peace—and offering praise with the Bi Gong (a song of ancestral-temple sacrifice), one wishes the family to flourish and prosper, with life long and enduring. Every person may share in joyous celebration, and every place receives gracious favor. All the presiding lords of the True Offices who govern blessing and emolument are supremely holy and supremely numinous; every prayer is answered.

The Star of Blessing and the Star of Emolument both appear at the pivot of the Northern Dipper. Dividing the charge of left and right, they present letters of commendation for the worthy and capable. Households that accumulate goodness through the generations are called houses of the gentleman; sons and grandsons alike enjoy blessings and felicity that continue without end.

With wholehearted sincerity I take refuge and offer worship: in the temple court of Longshou and the sacred realm of Aofeng, lightning flashes and cloud Qi rises high. Heaven does not speak, yet it gives warning with the shaking voice of thunder; the great earth nourishes the myriad things and, by means of rain and dew, causes the myriad things to bring one another forth. Divine and marvelous power operates where it cannot be fathomed, and subtle transformation is carried out in the formless realm. Grace extends throughout the Nine Provinces and benefits all living beings. The Duke of Thunder, the Mother of Lightning, the Earl of Wind, and the Master of Rain, together with the Zhaoling and Fuji Dragon Kings of this palace, the Sheling of the Five Directions (deities in charge of the land sacrifices of each quarter), the dragon gods who send rain, and the host of other spirits, are supremely holy and supremely numinous, able to transform and to bestow transformation.

The dragon rides the cloud Qi and of itself displays numinous majesty; the thunder shakes, and even ten thousand li away one is stirred to alarm. The common people of the world long for sweet rain to moisten them; in an instant it can rouse people to rise up and reveal their abilities.

With wholehearted sincerity I take refuge and offer worship.

Riding the clouds and Qi (vital energy), the dragon is indeed divinely extraordinary. Its roar shakes the thunder, and even lands ten thousand li away are stirred to alarm. When the common people under Heaven long for sweet rain to fall, he can in an instant reveal his dragon horns, his sacred might towering and severe.

With the utmost heart we take refuge, devote our lives, and bow in worship before the sacred beings of the holy realm of Aofeng and of the temple court of the Dragon’s Head. Attendants to left and right each attend to their own office. Some offer arts like those of You Zhan (an entertainer of antiquity distinguished for humorous performance); others are adept in skills like those of Guan Lu (a man of antiquity famed for divination). Those who oversee the meals prepare every rare delicacy; those who direct the music bring the tones into accord with the six lü (the six yang pitches among the twelve pitches of antiquity used to set musical pitch). The sixteen guard commanders are, every one, men able to lead troops in battle; the three hundred mounted attendants each bear the air of nobles enfeoffed as marquises. Their numinous power is illustrious, and their sacred images are solemn and fierce. Supremely holy and supremely efficacious, they are at the same time grave and strictly composed. We respectfully pay homage to all the spirits of the whole hall and of all who belong to it.

By their merit these spirits bring peace to the state, and according to established rule they bestow favor upon the people. Generation after generation the incense fire continues, and a bond of affinity is formed with the temple court. A renown like that of generals and ministers long endures in the world; after a thousand years, people still inscribe praises for their sacred images, extolling them as auspicious as the qilin.

When all have finished their homage, each kneels at length and repents with sincere devotion.

With single-hearted sincerity and reverence, we take refuge in the True Lord of Numinous Succor of the Nine Heavens (Jiutian Lingji Zhenjun), a venerated deity of the Daoist tradition, and in all the mighty spirits and immortal hosts assembled in the hall. We earnestly beg that, in sagely clarity and compassion, they bestow vast favor everywhere and send down abundant grace. Today we carefully establish a Zhai (purification rite), devoutly take refuge, and confess our faults.

We have often heard that fortune and misfortune have no fixed gate, but are brought on by people themselves, and that signs of good and ill fortune appear beforehand, just as a shadow follows the body. Good conduct is a warning against evil conduct, and evil conduct can also become the means of turning toward the good. Those who do good are protected by the Qi (vital energy) of the Five Phases (Wuxing: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water), and the Director of Destinies (Siming) also aids them; those who do evil are shrouded by baleful Qi, and malign stars shine upon them. Although the net of the Heavenly Dao (the Way) is hard to escape, the human heart can discern its own deeds. We now understand that good and ill fortune follow one’s conduct, and that blessing and disaster are invited by oneself.

We further reflect that if living beings turn with one heart toward the Great Dao and, through utmost sincerity, move the spirits to respond, they should personally pay homage to the True Lord and first declare and examine their own faults. From past lives down to this present life, we have often been ashamed of our errors and yet still done wrong. We have turned against the right Dao, attached ourselves to power and influence, changed our original hearts as circumstances shifted, and advanced by fraud and scheming. In secret we have practiced treachery and wickedness, harming others by vicious and cruel means. We have been sunk in profit, rank, reputation, and cunning calculation, until mind and spirit grew confused. We have committed such faults as killing, theft, and sexual misconduct, and fallen into greed, anger, and delusion.

In great matters we have deceived Heaven and Earth; in secret we have failed the spirits. We have complained of summer heat, blamed the cold, and rebuked wind and rain. At times we have relieved ourselves beneath the stars and exposed our bodies beneath the sun and moon; at times we have sworn oaths while pointing at the rainbow, and at times made pledges to the mountains and seas. We have damaged temples and altars of the soil and defiled sacred ritual grounds, yet we have not recognized that body, mind, speech, and intention are all at fault, nor have we been content with the duties proper to scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants.

We have not revered the Three Treasures—the Jing (scripture/classic), the masters, and the Dao, which Daoism honors—nor have we observed the Five Constants: humaneness, righteousness, ritual propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness. When acting on behalf of others we have not been fully loyal; in our dealings with friends we have not kept faith. In serving our parents we have been unfilial; we have forsaken our masters and forgotten kindness. Though wealthy, we have not been humane; we have prized wealth and disregarded what is right. We have thought that sacrifice brings no benefit, that violence brings no harm, that reverent caution is unnecessary, and we have not feared the consequences that words may bring. We have defied superiors and stirred disorder, flaunted bravery and delighted in fighting, hated the poor, pushed aside and framed the loyal and worthy, and oppressed the orphaned and the weak. We have enriched ourselves at public expense, treated others harshly while favoring ourselves, instigated lawsuits, and formed enmities. We have been arrogant and overbearing, and have abused people at will. We have not distinguished good from evil, nor have we been able to correct ourselves with a sincere heart.

What poems such as “Xiaobian” express is the harm done to affection between father and son; when brothers fall into discord, there is the plight lamented in the poem “Changdi.” When the customs of the state decay, it calls forth the satire of “Gufeng”; when flesh and blood resent one another, there is the sorrow of “Jiaogong.” We now know that our offenses have accumulated and grown grave, and so we reverently face the compassionate spirits and repent. Who among people is without fault? If one has faults and can reform, one should always keep a heart of watchful awe. The spirits do not enjoy sacrifice unconditionally; only when the human heart is sincere and reverent does sacrifice have meaning. Therefore we ought to do our utmost to express earnest and genuine intent.

We humbly beg the supremely benevolent spirits to protect us, and the Great Dao to extend its compassion, pardoning the faults of the past and granting blessings for the time to come. May all regions rejoice together, and may the people of the world receive grace. May the present age be at peace, with disasters not arising and calamities not stirred; may every blessing and good thing come to pass, the elderly be robust, and the young safe and well. We have long revered the majestic De (Virtue/Power) and radiance of the True Lord of Numinous Succor, and we wish to make of this a work that brings succor to the people. We, your servants, with single-hearted sincerity and reverence, knock our heads to the ground and bow again, offering homage and thanks to the True Lord of Numinous Succor.

Two True Lords, please accept three prostrations.

This disciple sincerely prostrates in thanks to the True Lord of the Golden Portal of the Nine Heavens; this disciple sincerely prostrates in thanks to the True Lord of the Jade Portal of the Nine Heavens; this disciple sincerely prostrates in thanks to the Holy Father, True Lord Yiliang.

The rites of worship and thanksgiving have been completed, and our repentance has been frankly declared. Reverently performing the rites in accordance with the profound scriptures, we venture to beg the True Lords to hear us. Now, with hearts of pure sincerity, we set forth our wishes and respectfully ask that holy compassion look upon them.

First, we wish the reigning emperor long life, a lifespan equal to Heaven, ever flourishing through ten thousand years.

Second, we wish the ministers and officials of the court their stipends and offices, the realm a fortunate meeting of wind and cloud, and a thousand years of prosperity and peace.

Third, we wish that scholars gain wealth and honor in abundance, that their reputations become illustrious, and that they ascend to the celestial offices and take their places among the dukes and ministers.

Fourth, we wish that farmers till the fields with diligence, and that from this time forward every year bring a rich harvest, with years of plenty coming one after another.

Fifth, we wish that craftsmen of every trade possess consummate skill, that they have the opportunity to be summoned by the court, and that within the palace gates they hear the emperor’s commands.

Sixth, we wish that the common people have rightful ways of making a living, grow rich and flourishing, and stand comparable to enfeoffed marquises of a thousand households.

Seventh, we wish that wind and rain come in their proper seasons, and that every region under Heaven together celebrate an age of great peace.

Eighth, we wish that the incense of sacrifice long continue to flourish, that the temples endure for a thousand years, and that the divine majesty and efficacious power of the True Lords be made manifest.

Ninth, we wish that the Nine Heavens bestow titles and mandates, so that those who receive them, their pendant jades chiming, may go to Zichen—the imperial residence, which also denotes the court—to pay homage.

Tenth, we wish that all who believe and practice goodness throughout the ten directions take refuge in the Three Treasures—the Dao (the Way), the Jing (scripture/classic), and the Master, as revered in Daoism—each one devout and reverent in faith.

The foregoing liturgy of praise has been reverently recited to completion, and the merit is fulfilled. All those present in the ritual space, each with a devout heart, once more respectfully set forth their prayers.

With awe in our hearts, and with careful reverence, we know that to prostrate ourselves and petition again and again is truly presumptuous. Now, gazing in reverence upon the majestic countenances of the deities, it is as if they stood before our eyes. Mindful of the kindness we have received, and with gratitude rising within us, we bow our heads and make this address.

Where the De (Virtue/Power) of the deities shines forth, it is called xianling and zhaoling, “manifest efficacy” and “luminous efficacy”; where their merit extends to all living beings, it is called puji and boji, “universal relief” and “broad relief.” The deities are like ferries and bridges, rescuing living beings from suffering, and like the sun and moon, giving light to those who have lost the way.

On this day, reverently carrying out the sacred decree, we establish a ritual space in which to repay kindness and pray for blessing and protection (the place and assembly in which the Daoist rite of Zhaijiao, or purification ritual, is held). Facing the deities with reverence, we proclaim the profound teaching; with the devotion of repeated bathing and purification, we perform the rites of veneration with our whole hearts. The deities hear and examine without partiality, and our intentions are all clearly discerned. We pray that the offenses of former lives and of this life may be washed away, and that good fruits may be planted for this life and the life to come. May every matter be carried through from beginning to end: may we do no evil, and may we not abandon good deeds.

Those who understand can grasp the principle in this, while the foolish can hardly grasp it. Through their teaching and transformation, the deities bring the people ease and peace. When cultivation is complete and merit fulfilled, one may enter the Jade Chamber and Cinnabar Terrace (the immortal realm of which Daoism speaks); by guarding primordial Qi (vital energy) and keeping heart and Shen (spirit) upright, one may open the Purple Yang cloud-brocade pouch (a Daoist image symbolizing the secret treasury of the immortals and the Perfected). May devout men and women all attain long life, and may the ancestors of every generation be delivered; may beings of every kind in the dark netherworld likewise be saved and return to the lofty and mysterious Dao (the Way).

This is the highest of wholesome affinities. With sincere hearts, let all invoke together:

the Celestial Worthy Who Bestows Felicity from the Nine Heavens, the Celestial Worthy of Myriad Blessings Who Protects the Body, and the Celestial Worthy Who Invites Heaven to Certify the Fruit. With one voice, all offer this praise: inconceivable merit.