《高上神霄玉清真王紫书大法》

Before Heaven and Earth took shape, when primordial Qi—the fundamental breath at the beginning of the cosmos—had not yet arisen, the Celestial King of Primordial Beginning was the source of vast chaos and the Great Brahma Qi. He gathered his spirit and formed a womb, bringing chaos into being. Once chaos divided, the Qi within and beyond Heaven and Earth became manifest; this state was then called “the Void of Chaos.”

The Celestial King of Primordial Beginning transformed and ordered Heaven and Earth, revealing the scene of their creation: his form shone like golden light, and his bearing was celestial. He nurtured wondrous Qi and opened up Heaven and Earth. Later, he descended from Mount Yujing and met the Grandmother of the Myriad Qi, the Supreme Jade Limit Primordial Radiance, Natural Nine Heavens, High Profound Jade Pure Divine Mother. With her, he cultivated the Way of the Upper Clarity Great Cavern, in which the male and female principles of the Three Ones merge and transform, and they had eight sons. The eldest was the Great Emperor of Southern Pole and Long Life, also called the Great Emperor of the Nine Dragons, Fusang, and the Sun Palace, and the Lofty Jade Pure King of the Divine Empyrean. These titles all refer to the same holy deity.

The True King of the Divine Empyrean gathered his spirit in the Golden Palace, a celestial hall, and reflected with compassion on all living beings in the world. They met the Three Calamities and Eight Hardships and endured every kind of suffering. The souls of the dead in the Nine Dark Springs and Feng—the underworld—were likewise bound by karmic retribution. Through long ages of tribulation, they sought one another out and suffered without end. Living beings passed repeatedly through birth and death, like a wheel turning without pause. The True King of the Divine Empyrean therefore exercised his miraculous powers and went to the Golden Palace of the Primordial Beginning Supreme Emperor in the Jade Pure Heaven. There he paid reverent homage and asked for a method to save living beings.

From the casket of purple jade and jade blossoms in the Upper Palace of Purple Tenuity, which held precious scriptures, and from the precious registers of the Nine Heavens, he obtained three scrolls of the Secret Method of the True King of the Divine Empyrean. This ritual text was formed from Brahma Qi, the sacred primordial breath, and was a book of cloudlike radiance from the Nine Heavens and the Great Profundity. Its upper scroll concealed the secret methods of the various heavens; its middle scroll recorded the methods by which immortals attain long life; and its lower scroll explained how to govern humans and spirits and protect the state and secure the household.

The Supreme Emperor of Primordial Beginning then commanded the True Lord of the Great Sovereign of Myriad Blessings to transmit the Lofty Jade Pure King of the Divine Empyrean’s Secret Method for Long Life and Protection of the Vital Destiny to the human world. He first transmitted it to me, instructing me to pass it on to those in the world who seek the Dao, so that they might carry and practice the method as a lifelong treasure of protection. Above, it can guard the emperor and stabilize the realm, securing lasting peace for the country. Below, it can prolong the lives of the people, dispel calamities and misfortune, and help those who cultivate the Dao attain the Way and become perfected. By paying homage to the True King, practitioners can drive away the six classes of celestial demons and subdue demonic spirits; they can also perform rites with talismanic dispatches and summon spirits and ghosts.

In accordance with the command of the King of the Divine Empyrean, this method can also free generations of ancestors and relatives of one’s clan from suffering and raise them to higher realms. It brings blessings to oneself and peace and prosperity to one’s family. In time, it enables practitioners to attain the Dao, shed their bodily forms and withdraw into concealment in a Daoist transformation known as corpse liberation, and pass the method down through the generations under its protection, so that the Great Dao may prevail. Those who study the method must observe it with care. Anyone who carelessly discloses it or treats it with contempt will face the torment of wind and blades through ten thousand kalpas, without pardon.

In the Great Luo Purple Palace, the heavenly realm described in Daoism, there are many official residences where the various Heavenly Emperors gather and reside. There are twelve thousand and eighty such offices under its jurisdiction, each with officials in charge of examining good and evil, merit and fault in the human world. On that basis, they reward the good and punish the wicked, keeping written records as well. Poverty or wealth, long life or an early death in the human world are not arbitrarily bestowed or taken away by the gods; they are the corresponding results of people’s own actions.

All these offices take the August Jade Emperor of the Vast Heaven as their founding master. The King of Jade Purity in the Divine Empyrean, a revered deity of the Divine Empyrean, is the person appointed by the Jade Emperor to preside over the Jade Purity Palace of the Divine Empyrean in the human world. The mountain and earth spirits under his authority are governed by a system of talismanic commands distinct from that of the Palace of the Great Emperor Ziwei of the North Pole. This system is also distinct from the secret register of the “Great Master of the Three Heavens, Supporter of the Teaching and Assistant to the Origin,” bestowed by the Emperor of Primordial Unity and Highest Virtue, and from registers of that rank. The Jade Purity Palace of the Divine Empyrean governs the registers of spirits across the land, along with the Divine Officials, spirit clerks, messengers, generals, and clerks and soldiers available for service. This method is also known as the “Numinous Writings of the Jade Office for Examination and Summoning.”

Practitioners of this method should purify themselves through fasting on the third and ninth days of each month. On these days, the divine clerks of the Divine Empyrean Jade Palace descend to attend the sacred assembly. At such times, one must abstain from meat and alcohol, observe sexual abstinence, and fast, taking care to follow these rules scrupulously.

On Registers

The registers of the Divine Empyrean method are divided into seven ranks and circulate in the human world. Since ancient times, these registers have never been revealed to humanity. Those who now obtain them can strengthen themselves, preserve their lives, overcome calamities, and extend their lifespan. Those who uphold the registers can receive the protection of immortal officials and dispel misfortune. Those who practice the registers can destroy evil registers.

The Divine Empyrean registers (the registers of the Divine Empyrean school) are divided into seven ranks and have been transmitted among people in the human world. Since ancient times, they have never been revealed lightly. Those who obtain the registers today can strengthen themselves and preserve their lives, dispel calamities, and prolong their years. Those who uphold them will be protected by descending celestial officials, who dispel misfortune; those who put them into practice can drive away evil and treachery and cut down demons.

Anyone entrusted with transmitting this scripture must swear an oath of alliance to the Divine Empyrean and submit a petition to the ruling deities. Only after receiving a clear response may they put it into practice. They must not skip ranks or use it hastily and on their own initiative. These rules must be followed without fail.

On the Secret Essentials

The Jade Writ of the Divine Empyrean is a secret essential transmitted privately from the Jade Terrace. Its scope encompasses everything and can govern the myriad affairs of the world. If one can carefully govern oneself, put it into practice, and uphold its protections, one can sit at ease and master the wondrous workings of all things; rise to one’s feet, and one can command the spirits. When the mind and spirit are still and settled, they do not stir recklessly; when responding to an influence, they can reach through and communicate. This method differs from others, and its various talismans and registers each have their own distinctions.

To encounter someone who has received the transmission of this scripture is an opportunity that comes only once in countless eons. To meet them through a fortunate affinity is a tremendous blessing, one whose benefits have no end. How could one fail to strive diligently and sincerely pray upward for the blessings of the true spirits? If one begins diligently but later grows lax, or agrees with one’s words while betraying that agreement in one’s heart, the spirit officials and clerks of the method will record one’s merits and faults without the slightest error. When that time comes, the Three Officials—the deities who govern Heaven, Earth, and Water—will take up their brushes to record one’s offenses and show no mercy. The secret formulas must not be transmitted to those who are unfit to receive them. Is this not something to treat with care? One should encourage oneself and keep the precepts firmly in mind.

The secret writings of Divine Empyrean are the subtle instructions of the Jade Bureau, the divine office that oversees affairs in the heavens. They are mysterious and profound, and difficult to investigate fully. Although secret registers have already been transmitted and can be practiced according to the liturgy, the key instructions and guiding principles have not yet been explained. This is like a garment that has been cut out but never sewn together: in the end, it still cannot be worn. The “instructions” are the essentials for sewing the pieces together and making them whole. Now the scriptures secretly transmitted through the ages are being revealed to those who seek the Dao. If they hold firmly to their aims, practice diligently, keep in mind the wish to aid all beings, use the registers and methods to root out evil and return to the right path, and receive the escort and protection of immortal troops, then, through steady practice over time, they can reach the realm of Divine Empyrean. Once their practice is accomplished and their merit and reputation fulfilled, they should ascend to the abode of the Great Kalpa, a sacred realm in Daoism. The methods are set out below. How could those who study and practice them fail to reflect deeply and put them into action?

On the Method

The Divine Empyrean method was originally kept in the Hall of Splendor, a dwelling of immortals or sacred sanctuary, and was not disclosed to the world. Now a prosperous period has arrived in the year jiashen; this is the time when the Dao Lord rules over human sovereigns. Therefore, the wondrous Dao is being explained at this time, and efficacious scriptures are being transmitted in precious registers. People of every rank may receive and uphold them.

On close examination, this method differs from other methods, and the talismans and registers it uses are distinct as well. If practitioners persist over a long period with earnestness and sincerity, and pray reverently for blessings from the spirits, they will accumulate hidden virtue and receive rewards in this life; their efforts will not be in vain. They must not recklessly provoke ghosts and spirits and thereby incur blame. They should act in accordance with the rules of the method and help one another through acts of merit. In this way, perhaps both the underworld and the human world may receive its blessings. Is this not a great benefit?

Rite of Vowing to the Method

Whenever this method is practiced, on the third and ninth days of each month, divine officials of the Jade Palace of Divine Empyrean descend to the human world. At that time, light three lamps and prepare twelve sheets of yellow paper, to be used together with the memorial and its accompanying documents. Seal them with the Memorial-Passing Seal, a ritual seal for conveying memorials, and submit the sealed documents to this court, meaning the relevant divine office of the Jade Palace of Divine Empyrean. After burning the memorial, offer incense, tea, wine, and fruit with reverence. When the lamps go out, put away the offerings. Only after receiving a response should practitioners begin to perform the arts.

The Heavenly King Primordial Beginning said, “I once aided the Perfected Lord of Ten Thousand Blessings, the Great Sovereign, and opened the Purple Empyrean, a celestial domain within Divine Empyrean…” The scripture then repeats the instructions: prepare the memorial together, use the Memorial-Passing Seal to seal it, and submit it to this court. After burning the memorial, offer incense, tea, wine, and fruit with sincerity; when the lamps go out, put away the offerings. Only after receiving a response should practitioners begin to perform the arts.

The Heavenly King of Primordial Beginning said: “I rescued the True Lord of Myriad Blessings of the Great Sovereign and opened the hidden mysteries of the Nine Heavens in the Purple Empyrean’s jade library. I entrusted them to the Jade Emperor’s eldest son so that he might reveal the Way of Heaven, transmit them to the people, and guide them back to the correct path. Whoever obtains this method can naturally become an immortal.

“The Brahma Qi of the Nine Suns—the pure, primordial Qi—numbers eighty-one, symbolizing the cycles of the sun’s course. The Lord of the Nine Suns, Fusang, who governs the sun’s day, gathered primordial Qi and became the True King of the Divine Empyrean. He also served in the office of the South Pole. Together with Han Si, he shaped and taught the people of Heaven, enabling them all to attain the Nine Heavens. Thus they received the secret writings, celestial registers, and cloud-script of the Divine Empyrean, and ascended to Heaven at their appointed time.

“The Scripture of the Flowery Hall gathers precious methods for attaining immortality and includes ten grades of liturgy. If you encounter this scripture, register under the name of Donghua, and you will complete your cultivation and become a perfected being at the appointed time. The scripture is guarded year-round by ten thousand golden-essence spirit youths and a thousand heavenly-essence True Consorts. In your practice, burn incense, scatter flowers, and keep a record of merits and faults. If you commit even the slightest transgression, your seven generations of ancestors and you yourself will continually face interrogation in the divine prisons.

“When transmitting this method, hand it over with a golden dragon, a jade fish, and sacred brocade as tokens, and swear an oath before the heavenly realms in all ten directions. If you fail to observe the fasts and precepts and recklessly divulge it, master and disciple will share the guilt. Your seven generations of ancestors will be taken to the Northern Capital and subjected to every kind of legal examination, with no pardon granted. You must swear an oath to uphold these precepts.

The People of Heaven’s Method for Fasting on Gruel

“When the five grains and five flavors enter the spleen and stomach, they bring peace to the five organs and drive away corpse evils—the impure forces believed to hinder cultivation. Your seven generations of ancestors will thereby be able to ascend to Heaven, and you too will attain immortal rank. You will live long without growing old, ascend to the Nine Heavens, endure through the ages, and attain sacred wisdom. This method must be carried out in accordance with the ordinances of the Most High Immortal Lord Donghua of the Divine Empyrean.

“The method described above is to draw in and swallow the Qi of Donghua, then draw in Qi and blow it out, harmonizing the body’s hundred bones and nine orifices and destroying the Three Corpses and Nine Worms—the Daoist spirits and creatures believed to dwell in the human body and hinder cultivation.”

The People of Heaven’s Method for Combing the Hair

“The Muddy Pellet Palace at the crown of the head—the spirit chamber said to lie within the brain—is where the precious essence, wondrous and splendid, abides in the Scarlet Chamber. The radiance of the Heavenly Emperor endures; the divine light of Wanglin appears in auspicious manifestations. To the right is the Hidden Moon, and to the left the Hidden Sun. Heaven and Earth, the four directions, above and below, are purified and refined; the transformations of the hundred spirits also return to the hidden and subtle. This method must be carried out in accordance with the ordinances of the Most High Great Emperor of the Divine Empyrean.”

The method above calls for facing the direction where life-giving Qi (vital energy) is found, drawing in and swallowing that Qi, and then combing the hair. Visualize your white hair turning back into Qi; this is an auspicious sign.

The Celestial People’s Bathing and Dressing Method

Wear the precious crown of Yuchen on your head and a robe of clouds and rosy mists over your body. A tiger-patterned skirt can subdue evil spirits, while flowing golden light releases essence and Qi. The five turbid energies quickly withdraw, and the radiant scenes of the immortals appear in all eight directions. May I receive the grace of Heaven, have my sins erased, and welcome blessings; may I long remain among the perfected beings of the Divine Empyrean and the spirits of the upper realm. I respectfully obey the commands of the Supreme Five Elders, the Heavenly Lords. Let them be carried out swiftly.

The method above calls for visualizing the Five Emperors and Jade Maidens descending from the moon, with Jade Youths standing in attendance. Draw in life-giving Qi and blow it into the water; only then may you bathe.

The Celestial People’s Washing and Rinsing Method

Heaven is clear and Earth bright; the sun and moon shine upon the dawn. May clean water wash my body, making me radiant in the realm of Jade Clarity. May my Qi remain free of impurity, and my five organs flourish with brilliance. May my sins be erased in the Northern Capital, and my calamities dissolve in the realm of the Nine Perfected. May evil beings hide and retreat, and blessings come one after another from Highest Clarity. Today, through this refining bath, I receive every grace; may this body grow feathered robes and ascend to the palace of the Celestial Emperor. I respectfully obey the commands of the Great Emperor of Longevity at the South Pole. Let them be carried out swiftly.

The method above calls for closing the eyes and visualizing immortals and Jade Maidens in robes of five-colored rosy mists, with the Four Beasts, lions, and white cranes before you, while the radiance of the sun and moon shines into the water. Click the teeth thirty-six times, face east, draw in life-giving Qi, and blow it into the water. First recite the Celestial Lord’s command once.

Another account of the same method says: close the eyes and visualize immortals and Jade Maidens in robes of five-colored rosy mists, with the Four Beasts, lions, and white cranes before you, while the radiance of the sun and moon shines into the water. Click the teeth thirty-six times, face east, draw in life-giving Qi, and blow it into the water. First swallow a mouthful, then use the water to wash and rinse the mouth.

The Celestial People’s Method for Going Out and Entering

I serve and assist the Venerable Deity of Jade Purity, wear the divine tiger tally and seal, and take part in divine office. I pass between the sun and moon, bringing light to the scenes in all eight directions. The divine generals of the Six Jia accompany me, and the divine generals of the Six Ding follow me. I bring stability and harmony to Heaven and Earth, and support Gouchen, the revered deity among the Daoist star gods and celestial generals. The Seven Stars guard me and bless me with long life. I command the soldiers and generals of the Five Thunders and stand alongside pure, numinous beings. Swords, weapons, water, fire, and other disasters cannot harm my body. If anyone violates the command of my Heavenly Emperor, the star deity Kuigang will leave his station and go forth. Swiftly, carry out the decree of the High Jade Purity Emperor Who Dispels Demons.

For this practice, at dawn inhale a mouthful of sunlight; at dusk inhale a mouthful of moonlight. Then blow the breaths out to the left and right to drive away evil spirits, disasters, and wicked people, and to put an end to slander, disputes, and curses.

Heavenly People’s Clothing-Removal Method

By the command of the Heavenly Emperor, I ascend to the Nine Heavens. The hundred deities each take their appointed place and line up to serve the immortals. My hun and po souls are harmonized and gentle; my five viscera are full and vigorous. Fluids arise throughout my body, and the Seven Essences are abundant and luminous. The fire decrees shine in concert, destroying ghosts and driving away misfortune and evil. Above, may the divine palace of the Divine Empyrean (Shenxiao), one of the Daoist heavens, preserve its numinous beings forever. Through countless kalpas, may they roam freely, accompany the sunlight, and ascend to the Nine Heavens. The hundred deities each take their appointed place and line up to serve the immortals; my hun and po souls are harmonized and gentle; my five viscera are full and vigorous; fluids arise throughout my body, and the Seven Essences are abundant and luminous; the fire decrees shine in concert, destroying ghosts and driving away misfortune and evil. Above, may the divine palace of the Divine Empyrean preserve its numinous beings forever. Through countless kalpas, may they roam freely, accompany the sunlight, and endure without end. Swiftly, carry out the decree of the High Heavenly Emperor of Taiwei.

For this practice, first strike the Heavenly Bell with the left hand and the Heavenly Chime with the right, then strike the ritual drum with the middle finger; do each three times. Remove your clothes, visualize the Imperial Void Sovereign of Taiwei, a revered Daoist deity, entering your room, and then lie down. This method is said to invigorate the body, strengthen it, and bring auspicious responses.

Heavenly People’s Incantation for Going Out

In Heaven are the Nine Stars; on Earth are the Nine Palaces; in my body are the nine apertures. The ten thousand spirits travel with me. The Three Corpses, spirits said to dwell in the body and hinder cultivation, lie hidden and are extinguished; the Qi of the five viscera flows freely. When the Three Fields—the upper, middle, and lower Dantian—and the four limbs are in motion, keep the body and mind centered and upright. The dragons and tigers of the Eight Trigrams come to guard my body. Demonic spirits, ghosts, and all forms of evil cannot intrude. The true officials remain solemn and still, and evil dreams cannot enter. Swiftly, carry out the protective decree of the High King of the Divine Empyrean Who Dispels Demons.

For this practice, swallow numinous Qi of longevity, strike the ritual drum three times, then go out as you please.

Heavenly People’s Incantation for Taking Medicine When Ill

With reverence, I pray to the exalted Five-Spirit Immortal Lord of Donghua in the Divine Empyrean (the celestial realm of the Divine Empyrean) to summon Bian Que, the True Deity of Heavenly Medicine, and his fifty officials. May this humble Daoist practitioner take medicine without hindrance, and may all that they wish to do go as they desire.

Spell for Heavenly People Who Fall Ill and Take Medicine

With reverence, I pray to the exalted Five-Spirit Immortal Lord of Donghua in the Divine Empyrean to summon Bian Que, the True Deity of Heavenly Medicine, and his fifty officials. May this humble Daoist practitioner, after taking the medicine, be freed from illness, and may the illness swiftly depart. Mount the Dipper Star and tread the astral steps; ascend to the Nine Heavens. Traverse the Nine Earths, and may life, fortune, and rank all flourish. May you live long and see far, preserving your vitality for a long time, and never suffer the pain of death. Swiftly carry out the command of the exalted Long-Life Heavenly Emperor of the Divine Empyrean.

The method is as follows: the practitioner recites the spell, draws in the Qi of the Divine Empyrean, and blows it onto the medicine before having the person take it. This method treats illness and misfortune, dispels stubborn chronic ailments, and extends life and adds years. It should be practiced regularly.

Method for Heavenly People to Tread Through Filth and Enter Darkness

On the left, the Spirit of Virtuous Clarity protects me; on the right, I summon the Heavenly Perfected Spirit. On the left is the Lady Who Governs the Earth; on the right are the five generals who dispel filth. May my name be erased from the register of the dead, and may the Jade Bureau, the celestial office that governs the registers, enter my name among the living. Swiftly, as decreed by the exalted King Who Seizes Demons of the Divine Empyrean’s Thunder Bureau.

The method is as follows: before approaching a filthy place, the practitioner turns the left palm upward and holds up the sun and moon. They visualize the five generals and the Spirit Who Governs the Earth descending, click their teeth seven times, draw in the Qi of the north, and blow it toward themselves before entering the dark, filthy place.

Talisman of Wisdom for Dispelling Demons in Ten Thousand Words

The Azure Emperor of the Divine Empyrean; at the Eastern Well, the True is refined. The Primordial Immortal of the Cinnabar Palace guards and protects, bringing all things into unity. The breaths of the nine apertures flow freely; Jie Lang vanishes with the sun. The light of Di penetrates the azure; the dark and profound opens through the land. Swiftly, by the power of the Mahāsattva, the sun and moon, and the wind; swiftly, in accordance with the decree of the Lord Emperor of the Eastern Well.

This talisman is to be drawn on a Wu-Wu day. Grind cinnabar with Xuan Pearl blood, face east, and recite the spell. On yellow paper, write: “The light of Di penetrates the azure; the dark and profound opens through the land. Swiftly, by Mahāsattva, the sun, moon, and wind; swiftly, in accordance with the decree of the Lord Emperor of the Eastern Well.”

The talisman shown on the right should be selected on a Wuwu day. Grind the blood of the Mysterious Pearl into a cinnabar-colored pigment. Facing east, recite the incantation, then write it on yellow paper. Chew calamus every day and swallow it with water from the Eastern Well. Keep this up for a hundred days, and your mind will become clear. Recite ten thousand characters each day to increase your wisdom. When your heart and spirit remain free of restless thoughts, you will see things clearly and your inner self will be lucid.

Talisman for Dispelling Impurity

By command of the divine general Yuanjue of the Azure Heavens and Purple Mists, assist my original Qi and sever what is inauspicious. The Li Emperor descends; by command, capture and subdue evil impurities.

The talisman shown on the right can dispel all forms of impurity and evil. It may be carried on the person or posted up. If afflicted by an evil yanchong—a harmful entity believed to cause injury—swallowing this talisman will bring relief. Write it using the Qi of the Dipper, the spiritual energy of the Northern Dipper. If you become involved in disputes, lawsuits, or face a malicious person plotting against you, carrying this talisman will avert disaster.

Incantation for Transforming the Spirit

The exalted true spirit comes to rescue and protect me. I wear the stars and drape myself in jade; thunder is on my left, lightning on my right, and I ride the Dragon and Tiger through the skies. All vicious things are destroyed, and all good things are nurtured. I respectfully serve the Jade Emperor; my body and spirit transform swiftly. Hasten to carry out the command of the Exalted King of the Jade Clarity of the Divine Empyrean.

After reciting the incantation, cast out the ritual seal. Visualize the jade boy and jade maiden used in the rite standing on either side. Let golden light envelop your body inside and out, and transform yourself into an immortal official. Then draw in a breath of Divine Empyrean Qi and blow it over your body. Click your teeth seven times, form the Divine Empyrean seal, and silently recite the incantation. This method is used whenever summoning dragons, subduing ghosts and spirits, or submitting memorials.

Divine Light Talisman

Heavenly thunder comes from the Divine Empyrean; earthly thunder comes from the Nine Layers. Water thunder comes from the Grotto Abyss; wind thunder comes from Fusang. Ghost thunder shakes the mountains, and the hundred valleys turn toward the morning sun. By command of the Great One, subdue ghosts and spirits, making them suffer as if burned by fire. Thunder swiftly shakes Heaven and Earth; a hundred kinds of evil spirits are powerless to cause disorder.

Bring divine light into the internal organs, making the flow of Qi smooth and balanced. Hasten to obey the command of the Great One and subdue the evil spirits.

For the talisman on the right, recite the incantation on a day of thunder, facing the corresponding direction. Write the Thunder of Heaven talisman in yellow on blue-green paper; the Thunder of Earth talisman in white on red paper; the Thunder of Water talisman in black on white paper; the Thunder of Wind talisman in blue-green on black paper; and the Thunder of Ghosts talisman in white on black paper. After inhaling, swallow the breath while facing the corresponding direction, taking nine breaths for Heaven, ten for Earth, five for Water, three for Wind, and one for Ghosts, in that order. It is said that swallowing the talisman makes all evil spirits flee at its sight within a day. Its sound is like a sudden peal of thunder, harmonizing and opening the Qi and blood throughout the body’s meridians. For childhood convulsions, or an attack by a “flying corpse” (a kind of evil spirit or illness-causing entity in Daoist belief), bestowing black Qi can bring calm.

Talisman of the True Yin and True Yang Qi of Heaven and Earth

The Qi numbers of Heaven and Earth are eight and nine; those of humans and spirits are six and seven. Once thunder Qi circulates, the hundred meridians can be harmonized and opened. For childhood convulsions, or an attack by a flying corpse, bestowing black Qi can bring calm.

Talisman of the True Yin and True Yang Qi of Heaven and Earth

The Qi of Heaven and Earth is divided into clear and turbid. Metal Qi is pure and bright, and the clear and turbid separate from each other. Take in the clear Qi into my “Spirit Field,” the place where spirit is cultivated and preserved, so that the “Great Granary,” the part of the body symbolizing reception and storage, may receive blessings. Within the Cavern Palace, all is clear and unobstructed; no impure Qi can intrude. By urgent command of the Most High Divine King of Jade Clarity of the Divine Empyrean.

For the talisman on the right, on the Winter Solstice and the day of the Beginning of Summer, face west and swallow Earth Qi eighteen times; on the Summer Solstice, face east and swallow Heaven Qi nineteen times. Recite the incantation and blow onto the talisman. Write it in cinnabar on a yang day and in black on a yin day. Swallowing it is said to coordinate the four limbs and ward off all illnesses.

Talisman of the Nine Qi of the Sun and Moon in Eclipse and Darkness

The sun travels and the moon appears; the Great Yin waxes full and wanes. Cold passes and heat arrives; the sun, too, waxes and wanes, rises and sets. Through inner contemplation, observe the Three Corpses, spirits said to dwell in the body and hinder cultivation, distributed among its many apertures. Once true Qi enters the body, the corpse worms disappear. By urgent command of the Most High Divine King of Jade Clarity of the Divine Radiance.

Use the talisman on the right on a day when the sun is at its strongest and the moon is full, blowing onto it with the tongue. Make the sun talisman by drawing in Qi nine times and the moon talisman by drawing it in ten times. Swallowing and wearing this talisman can drive away the Three Corpses and nine worms. Exhaling can dispel poisonous Qi; blowing Qi toward a ghost makes it vanish.

Talisman of Donghua Mugong: Write in yellow on blue-green paper.

Talisman of the Elder Han Si of the South Pole: Write in yellow on red paper.

Talisman of the Western Numina, Jinmu: Write in yellow on white paper.

Talisman of the Lord of the Northern Mystery: Write in black on yellow paper.

Talisman of the Yellow Elder of the Center: The Yellow Elder talisman for the central direction.

Jade Inscription, Sacred Title: Dragon-Patterned Heavenly Script

The Jade Inscription and Sacred Title is a Dragon-Patterned Heavenly Script. This text comes from the talismanic registers; write it in yellow on red paper.

Talisman of the Western Numina, Jinmu: Write in yellow on white paper.

The talisman of the Lord of the Northern Mystery is written in black ink on yellow paper. The talisman of the Yellow Elder of the Center is made in the same way.

The Sacred Jade Inscription—an exalted divine name written in jade—is also called the Dragon Inscription, the Heavenly Writing, a majestic celestial script like the markings of a dragon. It is said to date from the Red Brightness cataclysm, when the Lord of Heaven bestowed it upon the Eight Sons to guard the heavenly palace. It is kept in the Pavilion of the Assembly of Perfection in the Heaven of Divine Empyrean, where thirty thousand jade maidens and celestial immortals protect it throughout the year. In the event of a severe flood or fire, this text may be written in cinnabar on yellow paper and cast into the water or flames. It is said to keep the body from harm.

If worn or swallowed according to the prescribed rites, this text is said to drive away all manner of evil spirits, dispel illness, make water demons vanish, and cause demon dragons to lie hidden. To deliver the suffering and destitute souls of the Nine Generations of the Mysterious Ancestors and Seven Forebears—that is, ancestors of past generations—one may write it in cinnabar on yellow paper according to the ritual procedure and report the matter to the Three Officials, the deities who govern Heaven, Earth, and Water. The departed souls can then be delivered, reborn in the heavenly realms, and enjoy every kind of ease and happiness.

This text must not be transmitted to those with shallow cultivation. If practitioners devote themselves wholeheartedly to upholding and wearing it, they may be admitted to the ranks of the celestial immortals. But if they carelessly reveal it or show it disrespect, they will fall into the Northern Feng, the underworld of Daoist belief, after death.

Genealogical Chart of the Eight Emperors of Hundun:

Great Emperor of Jade Clarity; King Zuochen of Jade Clarity; King Chenjing of Jade Clarity; King Xiaomo of Jade Clarity; King Gaochen of Jade Clarity; King Yuanshi of Jade Clarity; Lord Lao, the Supreme; King Jiuzhen of Jade Clarity; King Dahe of Jade Clarity; King Qingjin Danhuang; King Baojing of Jade Clarity; King Taisu of the Jade Household; Emperor of Jade Clarity; King Sijin of the Lord on High; King Jade Clarity of the Divine Empyrean; Great Emperor of Qinghua; Emperor of the Numinous Sea of Penglai; Great Emperor of the Western Origin; King Yuanshi; Jade Emperor; Great Emperor of the Eastern Well; Great Emperor of Qingdu; Great Emperor of Qingxiao; Lord Zhonghuang, Arbiter of Destiny; Jade Name of the Lesser You; Great Emperor of Fusang; Lord Ziwei of Jade Clarity; Lord Qingtong of the Jade Treasure; Lord Baoxian of Jade Clarity; Lord Taiyi Yuanjin; Lord Mingzhao of Jade Clarity; Lord Sanyuan of Jade Radiance; Lord Sanyuan of Jade Clarity; and Lord Dao of Highest Clarity.

The Lord of Commanding Life of the Nine Sovereigns is the Great King of Primordial Purity, while the Primordial Lord of Golden Radiance is the Great Lord of the Dao of Primordial Purity. The Worthy Lord of the Sun is the Purple Primordial Lord of Primordial Purity, and the Lord of Purple Yang of the Three Origins is the King of Inner Effulgence of Primordial Purity. There is also the August Jade Emperor.

The eight sons of the Primordial Beginning received their titles and appointments:

The eldest son, the Great Emperor Lord of Longevity at the Southern Pole, born from the Primordial Beginning Above the Heights, served as the King of Jade Purity in the Divine Empyrean Above the Heights. He also served as the Worthy Lord of the Sun’s Nine Qi and the King Who Protects the Immortals of Primordial Purity. His name was Hundong, and his courtesy name was Yaohua.

The second son was invested as the Great Lord Who Protects Life. He served as the Eastern Florescence Emperor and also as the Azure Florescence Emperor and the King of Great Harmony of Primordial Purity. His name was Yongdong, and his courtesy name was Yaoyan.

The third son was invested as the Great Lord Who Directs Destinies. He served as the Lord of the Numinous Sea of Penglai. His name was Mengdong, and his courtesy name was Yaojing.

The fourth son was invested as the Great Lord Who Protects Life and Nurtures the Great. He served as the Great Emperor Lord of the Western Primordial Realm of Penglai. His name was Fandong, and his courtesy name was Yaowen.

The fifth son was invested as the Great Lord of the Bright Emperor. He served as the Great Emperor Lord of the Eastern Well. His name was Mudong, and his courtesy name was Yaoling.

The sixth son was invested as the Great Lord of Feiqing. He served as the Emperor Lord of the Pure Capital. His name was Qingdong, and his courtesy name was Yaoji.

The seventh son was invested as the Great Lord of the Southern Pole. He served as the Emperor Lord of Pure Numinous Radiance. His name was Wodong, and his courtesy name was Yaoshen.

The eighth son was invested as the Great Lord of the Northern Terrace. He served as the Great Lord of the Central August, Purple Purity, Jade Empyrean, and Capital Guard of the Nine Heavens. His name was Shendong, and his courtesy name was Yaoyuan.

Among the eight Emperor Lords’ titles, ranks, and offices, the eldest son is also listed as the Heavenly King of Jade Purity in the Divine Empyrean and the Emperor Lord of Numinous Peace in the Crimson Empyrean. His name is given as Wodong, and his courtesy name as Yaoshen. The eighth son remains listed as the Great Lord of the Northern Terrace, serving as the Great Lord of the Central August, Purple Purity, Jade Empyrean, and Capital Guard of the Nine Heavens; his name is Shendong, and his courtesy name is Yaoyuan. The eldest son also serves as the Heavenly King of Jade Purity in the Divine Empyrean and the Heavenly Emperor, Dao Master of Responsive Transformation and Great Peace in the Crimson Empyrean, while holding from afar the office of Lord of the Sun’s Nine Qi at Fusang in the Eastern Pole.

The second son is the Heavenly Emperor of Azure Firmament, the Primordial True One of Auspicious Sounds and Precious Radiance, who remotely presides over the Great Lord of Eastern Florescence. The third son is the Heavenly King of Jade Firmament, who Opens the Void and Transmits the Teaching, and who remotely presides over the Immortal Lord of Penglai. The fourth son is the Heavenly King of Luminous Firmament, of Supreme Mystery and Transforming Emptiness, who remotely presides over the Western Origin Green-Gold Elixir Emperor. The fifth son is the Heavenly King of Jade Firmament, who remotely presides over the Azure Emperor, the Jade-Treasure High-Morning Master of the Eastern Pole, the Lord of the Azure Lad. The sixth son is the Heavenly King of Lang Firmament, who Opens the Six Gates and Transmits Salvation, and who remotely presides over the Lord of the Azure Capital. The seventh son is the Heavenly King of Purple Firmament, who Opens the Two Gates and Transforms into Bodies, and who remotely presides over the Lord of the Azure Capital of the Lesser Abode, the Jade True One of Ten Thousand Florescences. The eighth son is the Heavenly King of Great Firmament, whose Flowing Radiance Transforms the Scene, and who remotely presides over the Jade Emperor Lord of the Central August One of the Nine Heavens. “Remotely presides” means governing from afar and also holding that office.

The Jade Emperor has eight sons. At the time when primordial chaos first opened and transformed, Yuanshi, a revered Daoist deity, and the Brahma-Qi Ancestral Mother, a deity symbolizing primordial Brahma-Qi, practiced the great-cavern way of female and male. Through the method of blending with returning wind, they united and condensed eighty-one streams of pure Yang Qi, giving birth first to the King of Divine Firmament and then to the Jade Emperor Lord of the Central August One.

The Jade Emperor has eight sons. In ancient times, the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning and the Venerable Mother of Brahma Qi, a high deity representing Brahma Qi, performed the Great Cavern’s method of male and female union, through which Yin and Yang join to bring forth the myriad things. They set the wind Qi in motion, blended and mingled it, and first condensed eighty-one portions of pure Yang Qi, giving birth to their eldest son, the King of Divine Empyrean. They then condensed, in turn, seventy-two portions of pristine Yang Qi, sixty-three portions of true Yang Qi, fifty-four portions of Brahma Yang Qi, forty-five portions of flourishing Yang Qi, thirty-six portions of radiant Yang Qi, twenty-seven portions of rosy-cloud Yang Qi, and eighteen portions of precious Yang Qi, giving birth to the remaining seven sons.

All eight were generated through the mingling of Great Cavern Qi and the nine transformations of Yin and Yang enacted by the Primordial Father and Mysterious Mother, divine parents embodying the source of Yin and Yang. Yin and Yang mingled and returned to the single Qi of the Nine Yangs. Rosy-cloud Qi condensed to form the hun soul, while wind Qi gathered to form the po soul. Thus the Imperial One became an infant and gave rise to nine sovereigns. The principle by which seven and nine combine can produce transformations without end. The Jade Emperor, supreme among all the heavens, is likewise known by different titles as one of the eight royal lords. This is the principle of the Nine Yangs of Heaven’s Truth, all of which comes from the Thirty-Nine Chapters of the Great Cavern. The method consists precisely in turning back the wind, blending the Qi, and bringing the Imperial One to life.

Those who cultivate the Dao should turn their gaze inward, returning body and mind to their origin in Heaven. Without understanding this, how could they allow impure fluids to stain the body, form an embryo, and give birth? Those who cultivate the Dao and understand this way can ascend to Heaven in broad daylight; those who lose it will sink forever into a realm of darkness. Consider this carefully: even the Jade Sages and the myriad emperors do not depart from the Great Cavern’s Dao if they are to enter the Realms of Truth. How much less, then, can ordinary people cultivate into immortal kings, united as one and attuned to the wondrous Dao, without knowing the Dao of the True One?

The Nine Masters of the Divine Empyrean

When the Shenxiao tradition first descended into the human world, the three revered masters gathered in the Azure Heaven. Today, each of the three masters transmits the Shenxiao tradition, and together they preside over Shenxiao Thunder Rites, alongside the Great Emperor, Ancestor of Thunder. The cycles of tribulation and fate are governed by the Supreme Jade Emperor of the Clear Heavens, a high-ranking Daoist deity who rules the celestial realm.

The Founding Master is the Celestial Worthy, the High and Supreme True King of Jade Purity in the Shenxiao Heavens, who Preserves Life and Protects Destiny; he governs fair weather and rain. The Lineage Master is the Celestial Worthy, the Great Emperor of Green Radiance, Lord of Settled Blessings; he is responsible for dispelling plagues and malevolent spirits, and for commanding and summoning the myriad numinous beings. The True Master is the Celestial Worthy, the True Lord Han, Elder of the Nine Heavens’ Office of Augmenting the Reckoning and Directing Destiny, who Cherishes Life and Bestows Blessings. He commands the Celestial Worthies who Ferry Souls and Capture Spirits. He dispels plagues and malevolent spirits, commands and summons the myriad numinous beings, and oversees the transformation and deliverance of souls.

In addition, each of the six other revered masters has a distinct ritual office and acts within its jurisdiction. The Numinous Master is the Celestial Worthy, the True Lord Who Answers the Primordial Call and Settles the Registers of Destiny; he controls the command plaques used in Thunder Rites and issues orders summoning the divine generals of the Thunder Ministry. The Mysterious Master is the Celestial Worthy, the True Lord Who Preserves Life and Transforms It into Being; he governs the spirits and Dragon Gods of the Five Sacred Peaks, rivers and lakes, the Huai and the sea, and pools and caves. The Sacred Master is the Celestial Worthy, the True Lord Who Directs and Oversees All, bringing peace to the myriad; he governs the capture of souls, the deliverance and refinement of the dead through Zhaijiao rites, and the apprehension of malevolent spirits. The Precious Master is the Celestial Worthy, the True Lord of Primordial Florescence Who Preserves Life and Stores Auspiciousness; he governs the laws of the Nine Heavens and oversees the thirty-six categories of violent and untimely death. The Celestial Master is the Celestial Worthy, the True Lord Who Holds the Dharma and Presides over the Registers, and Who Blesses the Harvest; he governs the numinous Qi talismans of the Shenxiao Heavens’ thirty-six celestial realms and specializes in cultivating the methods by which ritual officials attain the Dao. There is also the Divine Master of the Thunder Register, the Celestial Worthy, the True Lord Who Holds the Command and Issues Decrees; he governs the demons and spirits throughout the world, the five mountain demons of valleys, and the Five You and other unrighteous spirits.

When the Sacred Master takes part in a Zhaijiao purification ritual, he should be addressed as “the Celestial Worthy Who Preserves Life and Delivers Souls.” Each of the nine revered masters has a Heart Seal. When asking whether a ritual official has cultivated the path to attainment, if it has not yet been established whether they have received the Shenxiao lineage, one should first take as the primary concern the talismans of the Jing, Qi, and Shen of the five viscera.

When the body’s Jing and Qi have been depleted, how can the Shen and Qi return to their original state without drawing on the primordial numinous Qi of the Origin to replenish what has been lost? One must therefore begin by cultivating the inner self. In this way, the Shenxiao tradition brings the myriad spirits to fulfillment. “Shenxiao” refers to the guiding principles of the Great Dao of the celestial heights; it does not mean that the Original Spirit must leave the body.

Talisman for the Descent of the High Immortal King

Talisman for Summoning the Spirits of the Primordial Sovereign

Incantation for Empowering the Talisman

The celestial network of the Primordial Beginning spreads and moves through the world, governing and commanding the ten directions. It summons the perfected immortals and divine spirits, whose authority and power are boundless. The talisman is dispatched to the farthest reaches of the eight directions, bringing security and longevity, good fortune and ease. It safeguards life and destiny and dispels calamities, so that even those ten thousand miles away may be safe and well. This command must be carried out swiftly, in accordance with the ordinances of the High True King of the Jade Clarity of the Divine Empyrean.

To perform this method, form the Jade Clarity mudra with your fingers, recite the incantation, draw in Qi from the southeast, and blow it into the talisman. Then burn the talisman in a fierce fire or over incense. Afterward, recite:

May I reach the divine spirits and penetrate the mysteries, so that my mind and spirit become clear and pure, keenly perceptive and bright. I summon the Golden Boy who summons the perfected ones, and the Jade Maiden who summons the spirits. Let them make a report on my behalf, bringing down true Qi, manifesting the Dao’s teachings, and assisting its transformation of the world, so that my Dao may accord with the divine spirits.

In this practice, summon the Highest Perfected in the first month, the Middle Perfected in the seventh month, and the Lowest Perfected in the tenth month. On the eight seasonal nodes—the four beginnings, two equinoxes, and two solstices—summon the Highest Spirits; on the day of one’s birth year, summon the Middle Spirits; and in the tenth month, summon the Lowest Spirits. At the same time, visualize in your mind the scene of the ritual altar. If you study and practice without steadfast faith, the spirits of the Five Sacred Peaks will test you.

Incantation for the Jade Talisman of Paying Homage to the Perfected

The perfected spirits of the empyrean rescue and protect me as I carry out the great decree of the Nine Heavens. This method is bestowed upon me and received by me, enabling me to behold the radiance of the divine beings. My form was refined in Nanchang, and my true substance obtained in Taiwei. The Azure Dragon corresponds to Jia and Yi; the White Tiger to Geng and Xin; the Vermilion Bird to Bing and Ding; and the Black Tortoise to Ren and Gui. Divine officers and troops guide and escort me, while the true gods’ names follow one another in protecting me. I ascend to the Divine Empyrean and take refuge in the treasure palace. This command must be carried out swiftly, in accordance with the ordinances of the High King Who Preserves the Immortals.

Jade Talisman of Paying Homage to the Perfected

The talisman on the right is made on yellow silk and written in blue. Wearing it allows one to summon the King of the Divine Empyrean to descend. Each day, according to the ritual procedure, pay homage to the Perfected and visualize the blue Qi of the east gathering to form the talisman. This talisman is also called the “Boundless Talisman.” If confronted by fierce demons or evil spirits that are difficult to expel or subdue, respectfully gaze toward the Divine Court and recite the master incantation. Blow toward the Xun direction (southeast), then take the talisman to the Stove God’s (Siming, Director of Fate) altar in the home of the sick person. When the night is deep and all is quiet, prepare a serving of wine and food and a bundle of paper money. Burn the talisman, visualizing the blue Qi of the east gathering to form it. It is said that the effect will soon appear.

Days of the Holy Ones’ Descent

The ninth day of the eighth month is the day the Azure Effulgence descended into the world, and the tenth day of the tenth month is the day the True King descended into the world. On the third and ninth days of each month, as well as on the Three Primal Days and the Eight Seasonal Festivals, one may recite the complete incantation a thousand times, swallow twenty-one talismans, and then pray. It is said that the effect will soon appear.

Whenever a holy being descends, light three lamps, prepare twelve sheets of yellow paper, and present one petition. Make offerings of five kinds of fresh seasonal vegetables. Once the lamps have burned out, put away the offerings. Avoid meat and fish, alcohol, and other impure things.

End of the Great Method of the Purple Writings of the High and Supreme Jade Clarity True King of the Divine Empyrean, Volume One

Great Method of the Purple Writings of the High and Supreme Jade Clarity True King of the Divine Empyrean, Volume Two

Homage Ritual

Whenever performing the method, burn incense on days that fall on the ninth—such as the ninth, nineteenth, or twenty-ninth—or on a day when a holy being descends. First face northwest and make nine bows to the highest holy ones of the Three Pure Ones, the perfected ones of the Ten Extremes, the August Thearch of Heaven, and the teaching lord, the Daoist Sovereign Emperor. Next face due south and make nine bows to the patriarch, the Great Emperor of Longevity of the Southern Pole, the Heavenly Worthy Who Prolongs Life and Preserves Destiny, and to the true master, the True Lord Han, Elder of the Nine Heavens Who Adds Years and Cherishes Life.

Then face due east and make nine bows to the ancestral master, the Great Emperor of Azure Effulgence of the Eastern Pole, the Heavenly Worthy of the Great One Who Rescues from Suffering in the Divine Empyrean. Next face southeast and make nine bows to all the perfected holy ones and immortal officials in the Divine Court of the High and Supreme True King of the Divine Empyrean. After this, offer incense three times, kneel facing east, and begin to state your petition and make your request:

During the formal rite, the ritual master announces his rank and surname, then respectfully bows before the perfected saints of the Most High Jade Clarity Court. Following the Great Thunderclap Method of the Divine Empyrean, he prays that the spirits of his deceased ancestors may ascend to the heavens. He also prays for his own safety and lasting good fortune, and vows to cultivate the Dao, attain immortality, meet the gods of the Divine Empyrean, and roam freely through the heavens. When the prayer is complete, he makes nine bows and withdraws. Those who are elderly or frail and unable to perform the ritual may bow in their hearts.

Gathering and Absorbing the Black Practice of the Divine Empyrean

Each morning at sunrise, face southeast, bow inwardly thirty-six times, and click the teeth thirty-six times. Envision the true Qi (inner spiritual breath) condensing into the Sovereign of the Divine Empyrean. Then visualize the blue Qi of the golden terraces of jade in the thirty-six heavens. Amid radiant light, see the True King of the Divine Empyrean, with the sun on his left and the moon on his right, breathing blue Qi from his mouth. Inhale the blue Qi through the mouth sixty-four times, sending it to the upper Dantian (the upper region of internal cultivation) and imagining a sun forming there. Next, inhale thirty-six times, sending the breath to the middle Dantian (the middle region of internal cultivation), and imagine a blue pearl forming there, with the Sovereign seemingly within it. When finished, bow seven times and recite:

Sovereign of Azure Radiance, True King of the Divine Empyrean, Solar Emperor of Fusang, Lunar Sovereign of the Western Pole: may the four perfected ones and three Qi unite to form a clear blue radiance.

Station and array them to guard the three Dantian. Hold the True Sovereign in your mind. Consume and absorb the essence of sunlight, ascending into golden radiance. The sun and moon move within the body, and the jade chambers of the cinnabar palaces (inner chambers visualized during cultivation) shine with blue-green light.

Exhale, condensing into a body of jade; inhale, taking in numinous light like fine jade. Demons and ghosts vanish of themselves, and the Three Corpses (spirits said in Daoism to dwell in the human body and hinder cultivation) perish. Three times three makes seven; behold and bow before the Immortal King.

In accordance with the command of the Most High Jade Clarity King of the Divine Empyrean, carry this out swiftly.

According to this method, gathering and absorbing Qi for one hundred days can lead to the practice of corpse liberation (a Daoist state of cultivation in which the body is shed and the spirit ascends to immortality). This Qi can subdue many demons and evil spirits and drive away pestilence and epidemic diseases.

Diagram of the Nine Heavens Arranged in the Grotto of Yang

Diagram of the Jade Calendar of Brahma-Origin, Mixed Brightness, and the Five Eons of Creation

Diagram of the True Form of the Most High King of the Divine Empyrean

A practitioner of this method should write the talisman on yellow paper with cinnabar. Visualize the red-and-black true form (the image of a deity) depicted in the talisman coiling around the Mudball (the upper Dantian in the head). Then gaze toward the clouds in the southeast, where lightning and purple light intertwine, and visualize a red true form appearing, with immortal officials and their attendants standing guard beside it. Next, visualize the Divine Empyrean (the celestial realm venerated by the Divine Empyrean school) amid clouds of five-colored Qi. The clouds descend and flow into the diagram. Wear the diagram above the topknot.

Then visualize true Qi as red, shining forth in radiant brilliance, so that nothing lies beyond its power to govern. When true Qi descends, evil spirits are naturally subdued. Wearing it on a long journey or when entering the mountains will keep tigers and wolves away. It can also ward off weapons and warfare and drive away epidemics. After wearing it for three years, the numinous officers will descend into the bedroom and be able to expel ten thousand demons and a thousand spirits.

Diagram of the Domains of the Divine Empyrean Palace

Each morning, enter a quiet chamber and visualize and contemplate this diagram, transforming yourself into an immortal white crane. Perform the thirty-six steps of treading the Dipper and the stars (a prescribed stepping pattern symbolizing movement among the constellations), enter the Divine Empyrean Palace, and pay homage to the True King. After cultivating in this way for nine years, your practice will be complete and you will take your place among the ranks of the immortals.

Visualize golden light enveloping your whole body. With each step, enter a gate and become an officer of the Golden City (a celestial official who guards the Golden City). If the divine light fades, form the “Golden City Transformation Body Mudra”: press the middle finger against the middle joint of the thumb, then extend the thumb and the other fingers in the prescribed mudra. Step forward, kneel as you enter the palace, sit down, and recite the incantation:

Heaven is vast, Northern Sovereign; my body ascends into Yang.

I tread the Dipper and the stars, transforming my body into the Heavenly Dipper.

The slander of evil people, weapons and warfare, water and fire—

May every calamity depart from my side.

Then extend your fingers in the prescribed mudra, step forward, kneel as you enter the palace, sit down, and recite the incantation:

Heaven is vast, Northern Sovereign; my body ascends into Yang.

I tread the Dipper and the stars, transforming my body into the Heavenly Dipper.

The slander of evil people, weapons and warfare, water and fire—

May every calamity depart from my side.

My spirit flies to the Golden Palace, facing the True King.

Above, I stand before the Divine Empyrean; golden light shines in all ten directions.

Urgently, urgently, in accordance with the command of the Divine Empyrean King.

The scripture says that when performing ritual arts, one may draw the boundary of an altar on the ground. Evil ghosts and fierce spirits will then be unable to enter, and the place becomes a blessed ground. This ritual altar represents the realms of the Thirty-Six Heavens. Through diligent cultivation of merit and virtue, one may ascend to the Divine Empyrean Heaven. This talisman may be used while observing a purification fast or entering a quiet chamber to perform ritual practices. Place it on the ground and visualize the place transforming into golden towers and jade palaces, divided into thirty-six gates. Golden radiance will naturally arise, entwined with a jade-colored glow. To ward off evil, place the talisman on the ground in the same way; it is said that the gods will then dare not approach.

The Treatise on Preserving Life through Pure Truth in the Great Empyrean: Diagram of the Thirty-Six Heavens says: The lofty Thirty-Six Heavens correspond to thirty-six regions of the terrestrial realm, with thirty-six ramparts below them guarding the layered lands. Each region contains the Nine Yang Brahma Qi, the harmonious, numinous energy described in Daoism, corresponding to the thirty-six Qi divisions of the year. Each period of ten days constitutes one Qi division. In the heavens, each division corresponds to one day and is governed by a Heavenly Emperor. The merits and transgressions of celestial immortals, spirits, and ghosts are examined through the celestial diagrams belonging to their respective heavens: those with merit are entered into that heaven’s register, while those who have transgressed are imprisoned in its heavenly jail. As for affairs in the lower realm, the Imperial Lords of the thirty-six ramparts report them to the divine offices for review.

The scripture also says that to command ghosts and spirits, one may issue a heavenly talisman, informing and summoning the Imperial Lords, heavenly gods, and earthly deities, who will arrive at once. The associated talisman diagrams should be entrusted to the practitioner’s Wheel of Heaven diagram and must not be disclosed casually. If ghosts or spirits cause trouble, or one faces calamity from dragons and monsters, or danger from water or fire, form the ritual mudra, point toward the Celestial Eye—the ritual point used to sense and summon spirits—and lower the heavenly talisman. Facing the corresponding direction, call out: “Heavenly Emperor, come at once and swiftly drive them away.” To summon them, one must first observe a purification fast for ninety days and perform a rite of deliverance for the dead. Then report and entrust the matter to them, after which one may ascend to heaven. The original text then repeats the instructions for placing the heavenly talisman, calling upon the Heavenly Emperor, and observing the fast and performing rites of deliverance for the dead.

The talisman diagrams above should be written in cinnabar on yellow material and arranged in accordance with one’s Original Qi, the primal energy one has received. They are said to cure every kind of illness, harmonize and dispel malign Qi and pestilence, and command the obedience of all the gods.

The diagram labels the Celestial Eye, and shows nine heavens in each of the east, south, west, and north, making thirty-six heavens in all.

The “Thirty-Six Heavenly Talisman Names” are the names of thirty-six celestial realms, in this order: Revered August Heaven, Dao’s Stillness Heaven, Yangqi Heaven, Grotto Radiance Heaven, Purple Surge Heaven, Jade Spirit Heaven, Clear Emptiness Heaven, Subtle Fruit Heaven, Upright Heart Heaven, Spirit Transference Heaven, Dao Origin Heaven, Great August Heaven, Mysterious Surge Heaven, Supreme Truth Heaven, Brahma Bile…o Emperor Heaven, Mysterious Ancestry Heaven, Transformation Through the Ages Heaven, Jade Spirit Heaven, Left Presentation Heaven, Mastery of Transformation Heaven, Talisman’s Arrival Heaven, Preservation of Splendor Heaven, Essence Stability Heaven, Azure Splendor Heaven, Scenic Lang Heaven, Cinnabar Blue Heaven, Spirit’s Ultimate Heaven, Peaceful Dread Heaven, Vast Ancestry Heaven, Vast Emperor Heaven, Rarity of the Mysterious Heaven, Celebration Abode Heaven, Heavenly Lou Heaven, Immortal Transformation Heaven, and Ascending Mystery Heaven.

The “Method of Taking the Thirty-Six Talismans” refers to the way of cultivating or practicing the Thirty-Six Heavenly Talismans. The method text states: The thirty-six talismans above are to be written in talismanic script on jadeite, then stored in a box made of gold. The High Sage, Great Perfect Jade Emperor hid them in a vermilion chamber and jade room within the Divine Empyrean Palace complex, where treasures such as jade groves, purple stones, and sacred mushrooms are found.

The scripture says: The thirty-six celestial talismans described above were written in seal script on jasper and placed in a golden casket. The Supreme High Sage, the Most Perfect Jade Emperor, treasured them in the vermilion chambers, jade rooms, and jeweled pavilions of the Divine Empyrean Palace, where eight hundred Taihe Jade Maidens guarded them. These talismanic writings were passed down from the mysterious antiquity of the Great Beginning. They appear only once in countless kalpas and contain the subtle principles of the natural Dao.

The Great Emperor’s purple characters serve as proof of the union between the Divine Empyrean and the sages. The Lord of Immortals, the Eastern Flower Chancellor, Qing Tong, sealed one talisman away in the Thirty-Six Heavens and the Nine Empyrean Palaces. There it would endure through countless millions of kalpas without fading, remaining as fresh as ever despite the passage of ages. Anyone who encounters these talismans has a wondrous affinity with the immortals from a former life. The scripture says that possessing them can avert the calamities of the Three Demons and the tribulations of the Five Sufferings, free departed souls from confinement in the underworld of Northern Mountain, and enable the bearer to command the myriad spirits by divine decree. Above, they can rescue the souls of seven generations of ancestors; below, they can dispel resentments in the Nine Yin. Without these talismans, those who study the way of immortality toil in vain, probing its mysteries without being able to transcend on their own.

If a practitioner obtains this method, their spirit and soul can become clear, and Yin and Yang can come into accord. The thirty-six talismans are said to enable one to become an immortal without receiving a transmission from a teacher, and to dispel calamities and trials. They may be received, ingested, swallowed, or worn by the practitioner. The scripture also says that the hundred immortals will enter the practitioner’s name in their registers, while the underworld will erase it from its records.

The rite is performed in a clean room, facing east. Make nine prostrations, click the teeth thirty-six times, swallow the saliva seven times, and then recite the incantation. Clicking the teeth and swallowing saliva are practices in Daoist rites for visualizing the spirits and regulating the breath.

The incantation means:

O supreme sacred realm of the Divine Empyrean, great Jade Maiden!

May the numinous talisman deliver souls and protect body and spirit.

Through three refinements and nine completions, the Six Directions naturally come into harmony.

May I forever leave Northern Feng, the northern underworld, and be freed from all suffering.

May I myself be delivered and become an immortal of the Jade Court.

May my name be inscribed on the green bamboo register of immortals and ranked among the Highest Sovereigns.

By the jade registers and cinnabar script, may I ascend to the immortal realm of the Dao.

May I shine alongside the Three Luminaries—the sun, moon, and stars—and take my place among the Nine Emperors.

May I ride the purple celestial carriage and ascend to heaven.

May blessings extend to seven generations of my ancestors, so that they too may become exalted immortals.

Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

The text later repeats the prayer: May I be delivered, be entered in the register of immortals, and ascend to the realm of Daoist immortals; may I take my place alongside the Three Luminaries and the Nine Emperors, ride the purple carriage up to heaven, and grant immortal rank to all seven generations of my ancestors.

By the urgent command of the High Supreme King of the Divine Empyrean.

After reciting the incantation, write the talisman in cinnabar on yellow paper. Swallow the saliva in your mouth twenty-four times. Visualize five-colored clouds and rosy mists coming from afar to surround you, then flames blazing around your whole body. Next, swallow the talisman with clear water. It is said that after practicing this way for three years, the Lord Emperor and the immortals will descend; after nine years, the practice will be complete and you will be able to ascend to audience in the Divine Empyrean. Then form the Supreme Emperor’s hand seal, gather the Qi associated with the hour, and write the talisman. Recite the general incantation, face southeast, and pray with sincerity, asking the Heavenly Emperor to whom you belong and the assembled immortals to bestow their descending, true Qi and let it enter your body. It is said this can cure all kinds of illness. If you encounter baleful spirits, you may also write and post the talisman; it can also ward off disasters involving water and fire.

The domain governed by the High Supreme Jade Purity King’s Mansion of the Divine Empyrean is called the Heaven of the Divine Empyrean. It contains thirty-six levels of heaven, each with its own dragon deity. The scripture says these dragon deities summon thunder, support good deeds, and punish evil and violence; they are in charge of all affairs. The thirty-six talismans are wondrous and secret. It is said they form from flowing Metal Qi and accumulated Jade Qi. Their inscriptions can deliver messages to the underworld offices and the aquatic realm, and reach up to the Three Heavens. Swallow a talisman each day; after one hundred days, your face will have a jade-like sheen and your features will glow with golden radiance. After nine years of practice, a cloud carriage will descend of its own accord. Each talisman corresponds to one Heavenly Lord; after three years of practice, you can ascend to the Jade Mansion.

Taking the Thirty-Six Heavenly Talismans

The Divine Empyrean has its laws, and the Five Mansions receive numinous Qi. Taking the talismans can connect and harmonize the Qi, bringing clarity to the ears and eyes.

Sun Soul Talisman

Sun Soul Incantation

Within the sun is the deity who presides over birth; the Heavenly Lord who Directs Life governs the span of life. The radiance of the Nine Emperors gathers together, and the three lights of sun, moon, and stars ride in one cloud carriage. May I ascend to heaven with them and swiftly rise to the Three Heavens. By the urgent command of the Jade Purity King of the Divine Empyrean.

When writing this talisman, form the hand seal with the upper joints of two fingers on your left hand, gather the Qi associated with the hour, and write the talisman. At sunrise, face southeast, toward the Xun direction, one of the Bagua positions. Recite the Sun Lord’s name. Visualize golden light within the sun, direct that light into the tip of the brush, and then draw the talisman. Men who take it for one hundred days are said to develop a purple rosy glow over their bodies; women who take it are said to attain a form of gold and jade and give birth to noble sons.

Moon Soul Talisman

Moon Soul Incantation

As the moon approaches fullness, meditate on the honorific name of the Sun Lord within the moon, then visualize the golden radiance within the sun. Infuse this radiance into the brush and use it to draw the talisman. If a man takes this talisman, after a hundred days his body will emit a rosy glow like purple clouds. If a woman takes it, her body will become lustrous and radiant like gold and jade, and she will bear a noble son.

Moon Soul Talisman

Moon Soul Incantation

As the moon approaches fullness, the Moon Emperor Primordial Sovereign appears, the revered deity who governs the moon. Scenes from the eight directions spread out before him, and precious radiance encircles his body. Jade liquid arises within the body, nourishing the inside and purifying and clarifying the outside.

Hasten, hasten, obey the command of the High Lord, King of the Jade Clarity of the Divine Empyrean.

For this talisman method, form the Youwen hand seal with the five fingers of the left hand, gather Qi, and then write. When the moon rises, face northwest, recite the Moon Lord’s honorific name, and visualize the jade radiance within the moon entering the brush. Then draw the talisman. In this way, the myriad perfected beings will descend to bestow their aid, and jade radiance will appear on your body.

The instructions say: At sunrise or moonrise, close your eyes and tap your teeth eighty-one times. Face east or west, write the talisman in yellow and white, then place it in water. Inhale through the nose thirty-six times, hold your breath, and swallow the talisman. Then rinse your mouth with clean water and wash your ears and eyes. This is said to give the face a golden-jade luster, restore youth, and treat chronic ailments. If a woman drinks the talisman water, she is said to be able to bear a noble son. As divine water circulates according to the instructions, it steadies the hundred pulses. Through this practice, the Qi of the sun and moon will swiftly rise and develop.

The longevity secret of the High Lord, King of the Jade Clarity of the Divine Empyrean, should be written on yellow silk on a Jiazi or Gengshen day and worn beside the left ribs; this brings the protection of the myriad spirits. It must not be worn except when paying homage to the Celestial Emperor. If ghosts and spirits refuse to submit, burn the talisman register with register fire, tap your teeth twelve times, and face southeast to invoke the Perfected King. He will descend, and the myriad demons will be subdued.

The Nine Yang Brahma Qi of the High Lord of the Divine Empyrean

The Qi of One Yang, Blended □□ Huang

For this talisman method, at midnight on the winter solstice, face north and write in esoteric script, the secret writing used in Daoism, on an object of azure color. Tap your teeth three times and recite the incantation:

The Divine Empyrean’s One Yang emerges from the Nine Heavens. The primordial essence, Xuan Yu…

For the talisman method above, on the day of the Winter Solstice at midnight, face north and write in black on green material. Click the teeth together three times and recite: “The First Yang Qi of the Divine Empyrean emerges from the Nine Heavens; the primordial Qi moves through the lofty and subtle realm. Place the talisman to secure the left kidney, enabling one to ascend to the Jade Pavilion.” In practice, receive the Qi from the northwest with the base of the left ring finger, then swallow it. After nine years of practice, Imperial Zhi and Jade Blossoms will emerge; one will ascend in broad daylight and roam in the Golden Palace.

“The Qi of the Second Yang, whose blossoms spread through Purple Tenuity” refers to the Divine Empyrean’s Second Yang Qi, associated with Purple Tenuity.

For the talisman method above, on the day of the Beginning of Spring at the hour of the Ox, face northeast and write in black on green material. Click the teeth together five times and recite: “The Second Yang Qi of the Divine Empyrean emerges from the Nine Heavens, its Tai Su blossoms spreading; the Qi of Purple Tenuity moves through the subtle realm. Place the talisman to secure the right kidney, enabling one to ascend to the Jade Heaven.” In practice, receive the Qi from the northeast with the middle joint of the left middle finger, then swallow it. After nine years of practice, golden light will descend upon the body, and one will be able to command the myriad spirits. The Purple Emperor will register one’s name in the Immortal Palace, granting one a place among the Immortal Lords.

“The Qi of the Third Yang, of the Heavenly Tower and Phoenix Chariot” refers to the Divine Empyrean’s Third Yang Qi, associated with the Heavenly Tower and the Phoenix Chariot.

For the talisman method above, on the day of the Spring Equinox at the hour of the Tiger, face east and write in green on green material. Click the teeth together nine times and recite: “The Third Yang Qi of the Divine Empyrean emerges from the Nine Heavens; the Jade Pavilion of the Heavenly Tower and the Qi of the Phoenix Chariot move through the subtle realm. Place the talisman to secure the Gate of Destiny, an important point in the lower back, enabling one to ascend to the Nine Heavens.” In practice, receive the Qi from the northeast with the bases of two fingers on the left hand, then swallow it. After seven years of practice, a phoenix cloud and jade chariot will arrive at night in response to an edict, escorting the practitioner into the Divine Empyrean.

“The Qi of the Fourth Yang, of the Middle Daughter and the Evil-Queller” refers to the Divine Empyrean’s Fourth Yang Qi, associated with the Middle Daughter and the Evil-Queller.

For the talisman method above, on the day of the Beginning of Summer at the hour of the Hare, face the direction of “coming” and write in white on red material. Click the teeth together seven times and recite: “The Fourth Yang Qi of the Divine Empyrean emerges from the Nine Heavens; the Middle Daughter nurtures radiance, and the Qi of the Evil-Queller moves through the subtle realm. Place the talisman to secure the Crimson Palace, where the heart is located, enabling one to ascend to the Cinnabar Heaven.” In practice, use the left hand to recite the same incantation: “The Fourth Yang Qi of the Divine Empyrean emerges from the Nine Heavens; the Middle Daughter nurtures radiance, and the Qi of the Evil-Queller moves through the subtle realm. Place the talisman to secure the Crimson Palace, enabling one to ascend to the Cinnabar Heaven.”

The oral instructions say: With the left hand, press the middle joint of the index finger with the “foil” position—a specific position in the hand sign. Draw in Qi from the southeast, then blow it out. Persist for three years to dispel bodily illnesses and keep all manner of evil spirits from intruding.

The Qi of the Five Yangs, Great Sovereign, Subtle and Enduring

The talisman shown at the right should be written in red characters on red paper at the hour of the Dragon on the day of the Summer Solstice, while facing south. Knock the teeth fourteen times, then recite the incantation:

“The Qi of the Five Yangs of the Divine Empyrean comes forth from the Nine Heavens. The Qi of the Jade Emperor, Great Sovereign, endures without end. The talisman’s command guards the spleen palace, enabling one to ascend to the realm of Primordial Mystery.”

The oral instructions say: With the left hand, form the sign at the Dragon position on the index finger. Draw in Qi from the Xun direction (southeast) and swallow it. Persist for five years, and your name will be entered in the Yellow Emperor’s register of immortals; no illness can harm your body. Taking this talisman on the first day of the fifth lunar month can subdue snakes, insects, and centipedes; even tigers, wolves, and other fierce beasts will not dare harm you. For a year, all manner of strange beings will be unable to intrude, and a jade-like radiance will appear on your body.

The Qi of the Six Yangs, Transforming into Truth, White and Enduring

The talisman shown at the right should be written in white characters on red paper at the hour of the Snake on the day of the Start of Autumn, while facing southwest. Knock the teeth seven times, then recite the incantation:

“The Qi of the Six Yangs of the Divine Empyrean comes forth from the Nine Heavens. It transforms into true Qi and enters the realm of brightness; the white, enduring Qi continues without end. The talisman’s command guards the lung palace, enabling one to ascend to the realm of Jade Origin.”

The oral instructions say: With the left hand, press just below the nail of the index finger. Draw in Qi from the southeast and swallow it. Persist for seven years to invigorate the blood, replenish Jing (essence), remove white hair, and restore a youthful appearance. The body will become light and healthy, radiance will appear, and evil spirits will not dare approach.

The Qi of the Seven Yangs, Crimson Fruit, and Enduring Zi Radiance

The talisman shown at the right should be written in white characters on white paper at noon on the day of the Autumn Equinox, while facing west. Knock the teeth thirty-six times, then recite the incantation:

“The Qi of the Seven Yangs of the Divine Empyrean comes forth from the Nine Heavens. Crimson fruit and vermilion branches, Zi radiance enduring without end. The talisman’s command guards the liver, enabling one to ascend to the realm of Great Mystery.”

The oral instructions say: With the left hand, form the sign at the middle position of the middle finger. Draw in Qi from the Xun direction (southeast) and swallow it. After seven years of cultivation, one can attain the Nine Heavens. The Qi of the Seven Yangs of the Divine Empyrean, crimson fruit and vermilion branches, and Zi radiance endure without end; the talisman’s command guards the liver, enabling one to ascend to the realm of Great Mystery.

“The Method” says: With the left hand, pinch the middle section of the middle finger to draw in the breath from the Xun direction (southeast), then swallow it. Persist for seven years, and the body will regain the appearance of youth; the five viscera and six bowels will become clear and bright, and the blood vessels throughout the body will gather and flow freely. At night, ten thousand rays of divine light will shine forth, and no ghosts or evil spirits will dare approach.

The Qi of the Eight Yangs, the Celestial Perfected of Destiny and Immortality

On the day of the Beginning of Winter, during the hour of the Goat, face northwest and use black ink to write on white talisman paper the talisman shown on the right. Knock the teeth five times and recite the incantation:

“Eight Yangs of the Divine Empyrean, arising from the Nine Heavens. The Celestial Perfected descend; a jade warrant grants the destiny of an immortal. The talisman guards the Muddy Pellet Palace, enabling one to ascend to the Jade Origin.”

“The Method” says: With the left hand, pinch below the nail of the ring finger to draw in the breath from the southwest, then swallow it. Persist for eight years, and the Celestial Perfected will descend, inspect the fruits of your cultivation, and enter your name in the registers of the immortal officials, enabling you to ascend to the Divine Empyrean.

The Qi of the Nine Yangs, the Great Sovereign of Supreme Stillness and Mystery

At sunrise on the first day of the first lunar month, face the sun and use cinnabar to write on yellow talisman paper the talisman shown on the right. Knock the teeth sixteen times and recite the incantation:

“Nine Yangs of the Divine Empyrean, the sun’s nine kinds of breath. From among eighty kinds, take one and return to the Jade Chamber of the Great Sovereign; enter the realm of the Unmanifest in stillness, and ascend to court at the Jade Chamber.”

“The Method” says: With the left hand, pinch below the nails of all five fingers and draw in the sun’s Qi eighty-one times. Trace the seal script with the tongue, then swallow it. Persist for nine years, and the physical form will dissolve; you will ascend to Heaven and pay court to the Jade Emperor.

Incantations for Writing the Brain Talisman in the Register of True Images and Transformation Preserved in the Great Cavern Secret of the Divine Empyrean, Jade Purity

The red talismanic incantation in the Muddy Pellet Palace reads: “With the left hand, pinch below the nails of all five fingers and draw in the sun’s Qi eighty-one times. Trace the seal script with the tongue, then swallow it. Persist for nine years, and the physical form will dissolve; you will ascend to Heaven and pay court to the Jade Emperor.”

Incantations for Writing the Brain Talisman in the Register of True Images and Transformation Preserved in the Great Cavern Secret of the Divine Empyrean, Jade Purity

The red talismanic incantation in the Muddy Pellet Palace reads: “Lord of the Primordial Cavern, come with a breathy ‘xū, xū.’ By the command of Jade Purity, swiftly send down primordial Qi and bring it to fulfillment.”

Incantation for Activating the Talisman

“The red talisman in the brain, in the Muddy Pellet Palace: Lord of the Primordial Cavern, come with a breathy ‘xū, xū.’ Summon and gather the many Yangs; let the image at the Hundred Meetings point appear clearly. Above, preserve the primordial Qi of the whole body; below, regulate the palace of the five sense organs.”

The talisman shown on the right should be drawn on white paper in red. As you write, form the Chen hand sign with your fingers, draw in the Qi from above, and visualize the deities remaining in their appointed places while the Primordial Light shines over your whole body. This talisman is used to strengthen the brain and is said to relieve headaches. After carrying it for one hundred days, the various gods will come to pay homage and protect you. To use it, click your teeth nine times, swallow saliva three times, then drink water in which the talisman has been dissolved. You may also wrap the talisman in silk and carry it with you.

Incantation for Inscribing the Talisman

The eyes and spirit are clear and penetrating; numinous light appears. Use “Mysterious Reality” as the ruling word. By command of the Jade Clarity (the celestial realm revered in Daoism), swiftly send down primordial Qi and bring the talisman’s power to completion.

Incantation for Activating the Talisman

The eyes and spirit are clear and penetrating; numinous light appears. Use “Mysterious Reality” as the ruling word to gather and contain it. The gaze is bright as pearls and jade, unobscured by dimness or haze. Dust and darkness cannot stain it; consciousness remains clear at all times.

“Reality. By command of the Jade Clarity, swiftly send down primordial Qi and bring the talisman’s power to completion.”

Incantation for Activating the Talisman

The eyes and spirit are clear and penetrating; numinous light appears. Use “Mysterious Reality” as the ruling word to gather and contain it. The gaze is bright as pearls and jade, unobscured by dimness or haze. Dust and darkness cannot stain it; consciousness remains clear at all times.

The talisman shown on the right should be drawn on white paper in blue-green ink. Form the hand sign above the middle finger, then guide the sign between the index and middle fingers, and write with the Qi of the Xun direction, associated with the southeast. Take it with clear water. It is said to let you see clearly at a distance of one hundred paces and remain free from eye ailments.

Incantation for Inscribing the Tongue Talisman

The spirit of the tongue soars in radiant Yang; use “Upright Life” as the ruling word. By the command of the Jade Clarity, swiftly send down primordial Qi and bring the talisman’s power to completion.

Incantation for Activating the Talisman

The spirit of the tongue soars in radiant Yang; use “Upright Life” as the ruling word to gather and contain it. The Cinnabar Lord’s vermilion talisman bears the divine name Upright Order. Keep away from meat, fish, and other rich foods; contemplate the subtle flavor of purity and truth.

The talisman shown on the right should be drawn on yellow paper in cinnabar red. Form the Chen hand sign and write with the Qi of the Xun direction. Take it with clear water. It is said to harmonize all toxins, promote the flow of saliva, and moisten the mouth and tongue.

Incantation for Inscribing the Heart Talisman

The heart spirit is a mysterious pearl; use “Mystery upon Mystery” as the ruling word. By the command of the Jade Clarity, swiftly send down primordial Qi and bring the talisman’s power to completion.

Incantation for Activating the Talisman

Harmonize the Qi of the heart, so that it can dispel all toxins, promote the flow of saliva, and moisten the body.

Incantation for Inscribing the Heart Talisman

The heart spirit is a mysterious pearl; use “Mystery upon Mystery” as the ruling word. By the command of the Jade Clarity, swiftly send down primordial Qi and bring the talisman’s power to completion.

Incantation for Activating the Talisman

The Heart Lord, the deity who governs the heart spirit: the heart spirit is like a mysterious pearl. Use “Mystery upon Mystery” as the ruling word to gather and contain it. The Celestial Lord is calm; the fire Qi shines with a brilliant light. Set the body and mind upright and single-minded, leaving no opening for malevolent Qi to intrude. Guard and stabilize every part of the body, keeping each in its proper place.

This talisman is written in cinnabar on a blue-green background. While writing it, pinch the upper section of the middle finger with the left hand, draw in Qi from the southeast, and write. It can nourish the heart and Shen, steady the mind, and make one’s awareness keen enough to sense good and ill fortune in advance. Take it continuously for one hundred days to see results. Tap the teeth nine times and swallow saliva three times; it may be taken internally or worn.

Incantation for Writing the Liver Talisman

The liver deity is named the Azure Emperor, with the courtesy name Mengxian. By the command of the Jade Clarity (the realm where Daoist deities dwell), I ask that primordial Qi descend swiftly and make this talisman effective.

Incantation for Activating the Liver Talisman

I ask the Lord of the Liver, the liver deity Azure Emperor Mengxian, to descend. The liver is the organ that stores blood. It belongs to Wood, and its form embodies the virtue of Wood. One should care for the eyes so that vision remains clear; do not lose self-restraint through deviant thoughts or let anger run unchecked.

This talisman is written in blue-green on a white background. Form the Mao hand seal, a Daoist gesture made with the fingers, and face the direction called the King’s direction in the source text. Take it for one hundred days while visualizing the liver deity appearing and radiating blue-green light. It is said to improve vision and prevent eye ailments. It can also nourish the liver, strengthen the bones and sinews, and keep one from growing old. Tap the teeth and swallow saliva before wearing or taking it.

Incantation for Writing the Spleen Talisman

The spleen deity is named Purple Court, with the courtesy name Yannian. By the command of the Jade Clarity, I ask that primordial Qi descend swiftly and make this talisman effective.

Incantation for Activating the Spleen Talisman

I ask the Lord of the Spleen, the spleen deity Purple Court Yannian, to descend. The spleen assists the heart, transforms food and drink, and nourishes the body. Rely on Daoist Qi to bring peace to body and mind; even without the Heavenly Kitchen (the food that nourishes the body), remain diligent in cultivation.

This incantation for activating the spleen talisman is repeated once in the source text.

This talisman is written in yellow on a white background. Pinch the middle section of the middle finger with the left hand, draw in Qi from the center, and take it. Visualize the spleen deity surrounded by yellow Qi. It is said to generate the myriad things, preserve primordial Qi, and dispel illness. To use it, tap the teeth and swallow saliva, then take it.

Incantation for Writing the Lung Talisman

The lung deity is named Bright Grotto, with the courtesy name Licheng. By the command of the Jade Clarity, I ask that primordial Qi descend swiftly and make this talisman effective.

Incantation for Activating the Lung Talisman

I ask the Lord of the Lungs, the lung deity Bright Grotto Licheng, to descend. The lungs govern the virtue of Metal, and their Qi flourishes in autumn. The lungs are honored as the “ornamental canopy,” a symbol that covers and protects the body; when properly cultivated, they bring the benefit of fragrance.

This talisman is written in white on a blue-green background. Pinch the middle section of the ring finger with the left hand, draw in Chen Qi, and face west while writing. Visualize the lung deity appearing and radiating a light like white jade. After taking it, one is said to be free from coughs and phlegm.

The Kidney spirit is named Great Abyss, with the courtesy name Seeking the Capital. By the command of the Jade Clarity, I summon you to descend swiftly with primordial Qi (the vital energy at the source of life) and bring this talisman spell to completion.

When performing the spell, recite: “Lord of the Kidneys, Kidney spirit Great Abyss, courtesy name Seeking the Capital, come and lend your protection. The kidneys govern the body and are the foundation of its vital energy. The Kidney spirit dwells in the Water Palace, the water-associated domain corresponding to the kidneys; keep it pure and clear. Then ascend to the Palace of Li, the palace corresponding to the Heart’s fire, so that Water and Fire may harmonize.”

Write this talisman on white paper with Qi, reciting, “Lord, courtesy name Seeking the Capital, gather and command.” As you write, make a hand seal with the left hand at the base of the middle finger, gather the Qi of the north, and visualize dark Qi filling the room. According to the scripture, this method replenishes Jing and Qi, strengthens vital energy, keeps Yang Qi from waning, secures the foundation, and invigorates the life force.

The Yin spirit is named Continuing Life, with the courtesy name Strong Earl. By the command of the Jade Clarity, I summon you to descend swiftly with primordial Qi and bring this talisman spell to completion.

When performing the spell, recite: “Lord of Yin, Yin spirit Continuing Life, courtesy name Strong Earl, come and lend your protection. The Yin spirit dwells in the hidden palace of the spirit and is the source of nature and life. It is linked to longevity and purity, and can also put an end to thoughts of sexual impropriety.”

Write this talisman in cinnabar on a Qi-ground. Make a hand seal with the left hand at the base of the middle finger, then move it to the middle joint, and gather the Qi of the northwest. As you write, visualize the spirit dwelling amid clouds of three colors. According to the scripture, taking the talisman brings forth vitality in the Five Organs, enriches Qi and blood, and restores life to the body.

The Womb spirit is named Original Constancy, with the courtesy name Autumn Master. By the command of the Jade Clarity, I summon you to descend swiftly with primordial Qi and bring this talisman spell to completion.

When performing the spell, recite: “Lord of the Womb, Womb spirit Original Constancy, courtesy name Autumn Master, come and lend your protection. The womb is the foundation of life’s formation and the starting point of bodily transformation. It stores and nurtures primordial Qi, transforming it into spirit, while protecting the Life Palace and gathering upright Qi.”

Write this talisman in cinnabar on white paper. Make a hand seal with the left hand at the middle joint of the middle finger, gather the Qi of the southeast, then exhale three times before taking the talisman. Visualize yourself amid clouds of three colors, united as one with the hundred spirits.

The Lord of the Embryo, the Embryo spirit, is named Containing Life, with the courtesy name Harmony of Yin. By the command of …

By command of the Jade Pure One (Yu Qing), one of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing): swiftly send down primordial Qi, the original innate energy, so that the talismanic method may be accomplished.

Incantation for Activating the Talisman

The Fetal Lord and Fetal Spirit nurture life. The Fetal Lord is named Yinhe and, in obedience to the command, summons and gathers. Heaven and Earth bear all things; Yin and Yang harmonize and flow smoothly. Recite this incantation to make it manifest among the myriad spirits. Life is held within it, and grows according to its own order.

Make this talisman on yellow paper and write it in white. With the left hand, form the Chenwen mudra, a finger gesture in which Chenwen marks a position or symbol. Gather the Qi of the original spirit, face the Qi of the five directions, and swallow it. Visualize yourself within clouds of Qi in three colors. Take it regularly over a long period, and you will be able to transcend the ordinary and attain sagehood.

Incantation for Writing the Knot Talisman

The Knot Spirit is Jiuhua; the Knot Lord is named Yanxia. In obedience to the command of the Jade Pure One: swiftly send down primordial Qi so that the talismanic method may be accomplished.

Incantation for Activating the Talisman

Knot Lord and Knot Spirit Jiuhua, the Knot Lord named Yanxia, obey the command and summon and gather. Breath winds and turns in looping courses, coiling all around. Expel the impure so the body becomes light and nimble; make body and mind clear, pure, and fragrant, and nourish the body.

Make this talisman on vermilion paper and write it with Qi, using the intention of Qi in the writing. With the left hand, form the Chenwen mudra, gather three breaths of Qi from the original spirit, and write facing northeast. Then swallow it to disperse stray thoughts and concentrate the spirit.

Incantation for Writing the Joint Talisman

The Joint Spirit is Xianghao; the Joint Lord is named Kongyou. In obedience to the command of the Jade Pure One: swiftly send down primordial Qi so that the talismanic method may be accomplished.

Incantation for Activating the Talisman

Joint Lord and Joint Spirit Xianghao, the Joint Lord named Kongyou, obey the command and summon and gather. Govern the muscles and bones, joining the sinews, vessels, and bones. Move in accordance with the changes of the seasons, allowing original Jing to open and extend.

Make this talisman on yellow paper and write it in white. With the left hand, form the mudra by moving from the base of the middle finger to its middle joint. Gather the Qi of the northwest and write with it. Regular use in this way is said to make Qi and blood flow freely. Also visualize divine light shining brightly and enveloping the whole body.

Incantation for Writing the Blood Talisman

The Blood Spirit is Zhongyou; the Blood Lord is named Liangbi. In obedience to the command of the Jade Pure One: swiftly send down primordial Qi so that the talismanic method may be accomplished.

Incantation for Activating the Talisman

Blood Lord and Blood Spirit Zhongyou, the Blood Lord named Liangbi, obey the command and summon and gather.

Incantation for Writing the Blood Talisman

The Blood Spirit is Zhongyou; the Blood Lord is named Liangbi. In obedience to the command of the Jade Pure One: swiftly send down primordial Qi so that the talismanic method may be accomplished.

Incantation for Activating the Talisman

The spirit of the blood resides within the body and governs the circulation of blood. “Liangbi” is the name used to summon and hold this blood spirit. Blood circulates throughout the body and nourishes the limbs; when it flows in an orderly way, it can prevent illnesses caused by stagnation and blockage.

Write the talisman shown on the right in cinnabar on blue paper. Press the base of the middle finger with the left hand, then move the finger to its middle joint. Face south, call out three times, and then swallow it. The scripture says this will allow Qi and blood to flow freely through the body’s channels. The effects are said to appear after one hundred days of practice.

Incantation for writing the Jing talisman

“Let the original spirit be freed of obstacles; let the words of the lord be blessed. I obey the decree of Jade Purity; swiftly descend and form the original Qi.”

Incantation for activating the talisman

“Lord of Jing, let the original spirit of Jing be freed of obstacles; let the words of the lord be blessed and held. Take on a great form, sustained by the original Qi. May this accomplish the work of replenishing the brain and forever aid the wondrous nourishment of the spirit.”

Write the talisman shown on the right in cinnabar on blue paper. Form the zi hand-seal with the left hand, one of the Daoist hand gestures, and face due north. Welcome and visualize the mysterious Qi, the deep and subtle vital energy. Call out three times, then swallow it. The scripture says the effects may appear after one hundred days of practice, and that it can replenish deficiency and nourish the marrow and brain.

Incantation for writing the Qi talisman

“May the spirit of Qi be without limit; may the lord’s words be auspicious. I obey the decree of Jade Purity; swiftly descend and form the original Qi.”

Incantation for activating the talisman

“Lord of Qi, let the spirit of Qi be without limit; let the lord’s words be auspicious and be held. Dispersed, may it become firm and upright; endowed at birth, may it be vast and abundant. Fill the four limbs, bringing peace and well-being. Fill the hundred bones, bringing ease and comfort.”

Here, “Qi” refers to the original vital energy on which the functioning of life depends. The scripture says that once dispersed, this vital energy makes a person firm and upright, filling the limbs and the whole body and bringing stability and comfort.

Write the talisman shown on the right in white pigment on yellow paper. Press the upper joint of the middle finger with the left hand, then move the finger to the lower joint. Welcome the Qi of the hour of Chen, face northwest, call out three times, and then swallow it. The scripture says that taking it for one hundred days can strengthen the spirit and build up the original Qi so it does not decline or become exhausted.

Incantation for writing the Shen talisman

“Spirit, spirit, born of Heaven; the lord’s words are the numinous father. I obey the decree of Jade Purity; swiftly descend and form the original Qi.”

Incantation for activating the talisman

“Lord of Shen, spirit, spirit, born of Heaven; let the lord’s words of the numinous father be held. Let Qi serve as its form, and let Jing join with it. Manifest numinous De, and dwell in peace. Let light shine upon the body and reveal itself.”

When Shen joins with Qi and combines with Jing, its numinous De can manifest, bringing peace to body and mind and making the body radiant.

Write the talisman shown on the right in cinnabar on blue paper, and write “Numinous Father” on it. Then recite: “I obey the decree of Jade Purity; swiftly descend and form the original Qi.” Next, recite the activation incantation: “Lord of Shen, spirit, spirit, born of Heaven; let the lord’s words of the numinous father be held. Let Qi serve as its form, and let Jing join with it. Manifest numinous De, and dwell in peace. Let light shine upon the body and reveal itself.”

The Divine Lord receives and embodies the qi of the gods and spirits, and is named “Lingfu She.” Qi serves as form, while Jing and qi work together. His numinous, luminous virtue brings people peace. Light shines from his body and appears of itself.

Write the talisman above in cinnabar on blue paper. With the left hand, pinch the middle finger and draw in qi from the Xun direction, which represents the southeast. Take this talisman, and after one hundred days of practice its effects will appear: the spirit and qi become clear, the mind and body feel refreshed, the heart is at ease, and everything brings pleasure.

Incantation for writing the life talisman

The life spirit dwells at the center. I respectfully invoke: “With the character Jun, may I live long; I offer myself.” Yuqing, the Pure Realm where Daoist deities dwell, issues its command: swiftly send down primordial qi and bring the talisman and incantation to completion.

Incantation for activating the talisman

The Life Lord and life spirit dwell at the center, held in place by “With the character Jun, may I live long.” Where there is life, there is form; where there is a response, the numinous appears. Understand the many ways in which transformation takes form, and reveal how precious the human body is.

Write the talisman above in blue on white paper. With the left hand, pinch the upper section of the middle finger, draw in qi from the Xun direction, and exhale three times. Take the characters “Changsheng She” from the talisman. The scripture says that where there is life, there is form, and where there is a response, the numinous appears. Understanding the many ways transformation takes form makes it possible to reveal the preciousness of the human body. After one hundred days of practice, one can attain long life, preserve one’s life, and transcend the ordinary to become a sage.

For all the talismans above, hold the breath and focus the mind. Form the hand seal while writing the talisman. After taking it, practice for one hundred days. According to the scripture, light shines within and without, illuminating the whole body. Visualize the hundred spirits gathering and merging; the Great Cavern, a realm in Daoist inner cultivation and visualization of spirits, then becomes clear of itself. One gains long life, and the hundred spirits descend into the self. With diligent practice, one can sit and behold the myriad spirits and command them, accomplishing one’s aims wherever one goes.

The Nine Qi True Form was formed from the sun’s eighty-one streams of pure Yang Qi and the radiance of purple clouds and jade light. It belongs to the secret, forbidden arts of the Nine Heavens and is not disclosed to the mortal realm because the Lord on High is majestic and exalted. Only those who have seen the Jade Emperor’s true form, who were born with a mysterious and wondrous spiritual constitution, and whose names were entered in the register long before the time of tribulation are qualified to encounter it.

This talismanic image has a white jade ground with characters in gold. Wearing it when entering the mountains causes evil people, wolves, and tigers to keep away. Within a radius of a hundred li, it can bring people honor and prosperity and protect them from weapons, fire, flood, and unexpected harm. When danger or calamity arises, one should burn incense and pray with reverence. The True King will then dispatch a hundred thousand Great Gods Who Remove Calamities, together with Jade Youths and Jade Maidens, to guard the talisman’s wearer and keep every kind of disaster from reaching them.

Wear this talisman in person for a hundred days, and the immortal officials of mountains and rivers, the spirits and ghosts of the Six Heavens, and the Earth Deities will accompany and escort you. After nine years, you will be able to ascend to heaven in broad daylight. In daily practice, often visualize the True King in the heavenly court to discern the future in advance; when paying homage each day, also visualize the True Form. Wear and cherish this talisman for a hundred days, and you will align with Heaven’s intent and attain the natural way of longevity: visualizing it brings immortality, while wearing it brings freedom from illness. If the art is carelessly disclosed to unsuitable people, all the gods will despise you. Therefore, guard it with care.

The Great Cavern Generals of the Jade Clarity King

Ten thousand Female One Generals and ten thousand Female One Youth Lords; ten thousand Male One Generals and ten thousand Male One Youth Lords; ten thousand Great Cavern Generals and ten thousand Great Cavern Youth Lords.

In each of the arts above, one copies the stellar script, gathers Qi from the Xun direction, writes the talismans and registers, and summons the divine generals. Among the attendant ritual officials, the Female One General carries a jade casket, while the Female One Youth Lord holds its lid. The text then lists again the names of ten thousand each of the Male One and Great Cavern Generals and Youth Lords.

For the rites described above, one must separately trace the stellar talismanic forms, gather Qi from the Xun direction (the southeast), and then write Fulu to summon the divine generals. Among the attendant guardian officers, the Female One General carries a jade casket, while the Female One Youth Lord bears a box; the Male One General carries an axe, while the Male One Youth Lord holds a jade flute. The Great Cavern General carries an axe, and the Great Cavern Youth Lord carries ceremonial objects such as banners, flowers, pennants, and staffs. They all wear five-colored robes and ride clouds of five colors. The divine generals described here wield immense power and must not be summoned casually, or the resulting calamity and punishment will be severe.

Whenever one cultivates the Way of Guarding the One through the Female and Male and practices the thirty-nine chapters of the Great Cavern Perfect Scripture, one must first use the six talismans of the Female and Male Great Cavern Youth Lords and Generals. Each time one ingests the Great Cavern talisman and the talismans of the thirty-nine chapters, one must burn the talismans and summon the divine generals to guard the practitioner’s body.

There are ten thousand Yellow Chamber Generals and ten thousand Yellow Chamber Youth Lords; ten thousand White Cloud Generals and ten thousand White Mist Youth Lords; ten thousand Hidden Way Generals and ten thousand Hidden Way Youth Lords; ten thousand True Taboo Generals, ten thousand True Taboo Youth Lords, and ten thousand True Taboo soldiers; and ten thousand Left Upper Generals and ten thousand Left Upper soldiers.

These talismans must all be adorned in gold and accompanied by weapons and equipment of various colors. Each group has one hundred and twenty members, all riding green clouds. To summon them, face the Xun direction and visualize their arrival, make the Chen hand seal used in finger gestures, and gather Qi from the Xun direction.

There are ten thousand Right Upper Generals and ten thousand Right Upper soldiers. To summon these two groups of divine troops, make the Chen hand seal, gather Qi from the Xun direction, then burn the talismans and summon them. One group appears in the form of generals, with one hundred and twenty bearing standards; the other appears as soldiers, with one hundred and twenty carrying bows.

There are ten thousand Front Division Tiger Generals, ten thousand Rear Division Tiger Generals, and ten thousand Rear Division Upper soldiers. To summon these two groups of divine troops, likewise make the Chen hand seal, gather Qi from the Xun direction, then burn the talismans and summon them. One group appears in the form of generals, with one hundred and twenty bearing standards; the other appears as soldiers, with one hundred and twenty carrying bows.

First, hold in visualization the two talismans described above. Form the Chen hand-seal (a Daoist ritual gesture made with the fingers), draw in the Qi from the Xun direction, then write the talismans to summon the divine generals. Each summoned general appears like a military commander, holding a precious sword and leading a hundred and twenty troops.

The Dragon-Riding General commands ten thousand troops; the Phoenix-Chariot General commands ten thousand troops.

After forming the Chen hand-seal and drawing in the Qi from the Xun direction, write the two talismans above to summon the Dragon-Riding General. He appears like a celestial general clad in golden armor, commanding one hundred thousand golden-armored soldiers and riding in a dragon-and-phoenix chariot. The general holds a colored banner, and another hundred thousand arrive in phoenix chariots.

The Drum-and-Pipe Corps Commander commands ten thousand troops; the Gong-and-Cymbal Corps Commander commands ten thousand troops.

The troops summoned by the two talismans above ride in dragon-and-phoenix chariots. The general holds a colored banner, and another hundred thousand arrive in phoenix chariots.

The Drum-and-Pipe Corps Commander commands ten thousand troops; the Gong-and-Cymbal Corps Commander commands ten thousand troops.

Form the Chen hand-seal, draw in Qi from the Xun direction, and write the two talismans above to summon the generals.

Talismans for the Shenxiao Garment of the Great Cavern’s Thirty-Nine Chapters, Blending the Hundred Spirits

When practicing the talisman method of the Great Cavern’s Thirty-Nine Chapters, a Daoist cultivation method centered on the thirty-nine chapter talismans, first write the six talismans of the paired male and female Great Cavern Youth Lords and Generals, then burn them to summon the spirits. Next, in a purified room, visualize and arrange the Three Officials (of Heaven, Earth, and Water), letting each figure appear in turn as the myriad Qi gather. Then face east and knock the teeth thirty-nine times.

The incantation says:

The jade talisman gives forth a wondrous sound, bringing the order of life to stability and ensuring its long continuance. The precious, true Qi of the Three Caverns makes the root of Jade Radiance firm.

The Three Palaces are filled, reaching upward to the Mud Pill (the upper Dantian in the head). The thirty-nine joints gather Qi, which nurtures and gives birth.

Transform into a perfected being and ascend to the Emperor’s Dawn. Deliver seven generations of ancestors, granting them new life in the Southern Hall.

Roam freely through the realm of Great Mystery, gladly receiving deliverance.

In solemn obedience to the command of the High Lord, King of Jade Purity in the Divine Empyrean, act with urgency.

Then swallow the saliva thirty-nine times and begin writing the talisman.

Talisman for Blending the Hundred Spirits

Write this talisman on yellow paper in purple ink, using black ink for the star-shaped design within it. After writing it, sit on the talisman and recite the preceding incantation. This talisman is to be ingested and held in cultivation alongside the method of the Thirty-Nine Chapters.

True Talisman of the High Lord, Divine Empyrean, Jade Purity, for Blending the Hundred Spirits

Write this talisman on yellow paper in purple ink, using black ink for the star-shaped design within it. After writing it, sit on the talisman and recite the preceding incantation. This talisman is to be ingested and held in cultivation alongside the method of the Thirty-Nine Chapters.

The Great Method of the Purple Writ of the True King of Jade Purity, Most High of the Divine Empyrean, Volume Three

The Subtle Wonders of the Great Cavern

The Edict says: The Flying-Space Secret Talisman of the Great Cavern’s True Mystery and Cavern Seal should be written in cinnabar on blue paper at dawn, then swallowed with clear water. This will naturally bring peace to the heart and spirit. On each Jiazi day, Gengshen day, one’s birth-sign day, one of the Eight Nodes, or an auspicious day, write and take it in the same way as before. If ordinary people are troubled by impure Qi, taking it continuously for one hundred days will enable them to attain long life, and spirits will also descend into their bodies. This method is unfailingly effective in treating illness.

The incantation says:

“By command, the jade talisman guards and protects; the power of the Great Cavern naturally shines forth. White clouds spread like a sea; the Great Cavern General descends. What has gathered dissolves with the talisman’s spell; illness recedes with the water, and the body finds peace. The numinous power of the immortals of long life descends into the body. Swiftly, in accordance with the laws of the Most High Jade Purity, King of Great Harmony.”

For this method, also take the Heaven Gate Talisman and recite: “By command, guard and suppress; the Great Cavern shines forth on its own. White clouds spread like a sea; the Great Cavern General. What has gathered disperses with the talisman; illness departs with the water, and peace follows. Immortals of long life, numinous spirits descend into the body. Swiftly, in accordance with the laws of the Most High Jade Purity, King of Great Harmony.”

For this method, also draw in the Qi of the Heaven Gate and blow it onto the talisman. The male and female generals of the Great Cavern—the Yellow Chamber and White Cloud Generals—and the Youthful Lords each command ten thousand attendants to protect this talisman. Do not disclose it casually. The prohibition against revealing this secret method is extremely strict; you must clearly understand the consequences of violating it.

The Subtle Method for Transforming Appearances and Merging with the Divine Generals

Whenever you are to pay homage to the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning, enter a quiet chamber to perform the rite, and tread the Flying-Space Dipper Steps, face north and, with clean…

Spread out a mat and prepare a serving of food and wine, then click the teeth together nine times. Visualize dense white Qi rising from the five zang organs and the body’s many apertures. After a while, the white Qi transforms into the General of the Female One and ten thousand child lords. Next, visualize dense yellow Qi rising from the five zang organs and the body’s hundred apertures. After a while, it transforms into the General of the Male One and ten thousand child lords.

Then visualize golden chambers and jade gates within the five zang organs, the six fu organs, and the three Dantian energy centers. Purple Qi rises from them and transforms into ten thousand Great Cavern generals. Also visualize the yellow chamber of the Mud Pill Palace—that is, the Yellow Court of the Lower Origin. Yellow Qi rises from it and transforms into ten thousand child lords of the Yellow Chamber. Next, visualize white Qi rising from the nose and transforming into the White Cloud General. From the ears, hear the child lords speaking, beating gongs and drums, their sound shaking Heaven and Earth. After a while, the assembled deities enter the golden palace of the Mud Pill Palace.

Visualize countless troops and horses in the golden palace transforming into a precious pearl, bright as the sun and moon. Recite, beat gongs, and strike drums; let the sound shake Heaven and Earth. After a while, the pearl enters the golden palace of the Mud Pill Palace. Then draw the pearl in through the mouth and send it into the lower Dantian, where it transforms into an infant. At this point, see the spirits of the Three Corpses and Five Desires—symbols of cravings that obstruct cultivation and impurities within the body—emerge from the jade stalk. Then draw in another breath and bring it into the heart.

After a while, a brilliant light shines from the heart and emerges through the mouth, transforming into ten thousand Hidden Way generals. They draw their bows and brandish their swords, cutting off the heads of the Three Corpses and transforming them into True Taboo child lords. Close the eyes and visualize white Qi rising from the crown of the head, accompanied by generals, officials, and troops. Then transform into your own form, ride upon white clouds, and call the attendant officials and soldiers on either side. Together, travel to the Jade Palace and pay audience to the Jade Emperor. The generals and others then transform into golden light and are all swallowed at once. Only after this should the method be performed.

To summon and command deities, first write the Talisman for Summoning the Perfected and Bringing Forth the Deities. Then summon the Merit Officer, the Chief of the Palace, and the relevant officials and soldiers, and pay audience to the Jade Emperor. Next, transform all the generals into golden light and swallow them at once. This method is highly efficacious.

Hand Configurations

Taiwei Star Dipper (the pattern of steps used when performing the rite)

Star Dipper for the Spirit’s Ascent and Flight (the pattern of steps used to visualize the spirit’s ascent and flight)

The Pattern of Round Heaven and Square Earth

The Great Cavern Method for Blending the Five Qi (a Great Cavern method for combining the five vital energies)

Sit quietly and visualize the spirits, gathering and restraining the hun-souls and po-souls. Keep the foundation of the Dantian (energy center) settled, swallow the saliva in your mouth, and harmonize the breath. Let the spirits of the five viscera merge as one and together pay homage to the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning. Then no evil Qi (vital energy) can assail the righteous Qi, and illness will not arise. Guard the Jing (essence) and Qi in the Gate of Life, and you can prolong your years and increase your longevity. Long life and far-reaching vision both reside in the Heavenly Court.

The revered spirit Taiyi dwells in the Mudball Palace (the upper Dantian inside the head), and from his mouth shines a light like the sun and moon. The deity Tianpeng is also like a child. The Director of Destiny resembles you in appearance, wears a vermilion robe and a golden crown; Taokang also resembles you, and wears yellow. The Young Lord of the Mudball Palace wears blue and carries himself like a nobleman; the revered spirit Baiyuan wears white and carries himself like a nobleman as well.

If your mind and spirit are unsettled and you fear calamity is approaching, place your left hand over your heart and recite this incantation:

“Lord Director of Destiny of the Central Heavenly Court, please extend your disciple’s life. Bind me with a golden cord, so that I may endure a thousand autumns and ten thousand springs, with a lifespan without end.”

Recite it seven times, and the affliction of an unsettled mind and spirit will be cured.

Incantation for Fumigating Illness

“Revered spirit Taiyi, please strive to plan your return. Destroy every kind of madness, and sweep away evil Qi and filth.”

Recite it seven times, and symptoms of disordered breathing and an inability to nourish Jing and Qi will be cured.

By nurturing the Jing embryo (the Jing and Qi gathered and cultivated through practice) over a long period, you can experience years without end. Recite it seven times, and the affliction of an unsettled mind and spirit will be cured.

Incantation for Fumigating Illness

“Revered spirit Taiyi, please strive to plan your return. Destroy every kind of madness, and sweep away evil Qi and filth.”

Recite it seven times, and symptoms of disordered breathing and an inability to nourish Jing and Qi will be cured.

Nurture the Jing embryo over a long period. If the changing seasons of spring and autumn stir your desires and you fear an involuntary loss of seminal fluid, visualize Taokang, hold the Celestial Emperor’s emblem (a talisman representing the deity Celestial Emperor), and recite this incantation:

“Child Dao Kang, Lord Tao of the Gate of Life, harmonize and sustain the Jing and Qi, directing them toward the Mudball Palace. If evil spirits assail the righteous teaching, send the Flowing Gold and Hurling Fire charging into the Bridal Chamber (the place within the body where spirits are housed) to drive them out.”

In this way, you can avoid the affliction of seminal leakage. Abstain from meat and pungent foods, and also avoid blood and impure things. This method treats various illnesses and nourishes the spirit. Reciting the incantation and regulating the breath can clear the mind and spirit and make the breath fresh and free.

When troubled by nightmares or the intrusion of evil spirits, invoke the names of your own souls and visualize the spirits of the five viscera as alert; then recite this incantation:

“Great Cavern True King, open and refine the Three Souls. First Soul, swiftly seize and restrain the Seven Po; Second Soul, swiftly guard the Mudball Palace; Third Soul, obey the command of the mind and spirit, and swiftly set the breath in motion.”

In this way, the mind and spirit will become clear and the breath fresh and free.

When troubled by nightmares or malevolent spirits, first invoke the names of the souls. Visualize the spirits of the five zang organs awakening to protect you, then recite the incantation:

“Great Cavern True King, please refine and govern my three souls. First soul, swiftly seize and restrain the seven po; second soul, swiftly guard the Mudball Palace; third soul, obey the direction of the heart spirit and swiftly report to the Three Primal Lords Most High. Whenever an inauspicious dream occurs and the seven po seem to wander like corpses, drawn by evil Qi, quickly summon Taokang to protect me and eliminate the source of evil, turning misfortune into good fortune and sparing me death and calamity.”

Then hold your breath according to the instructions. This method may also be used when the disturbance does not come from a dream.

Method for Eliminating the Three Corpses

The upper, middle, and lower corpses (the Three Corpses, spirits or wormlike beings said in Daoism to dwell in the human body and hinder cultivation).

The talisman on the right should be written in cinnabar on a Jiazi or Gengshen day. Take it seven times in succession late at night, when all is quiet; it is said that the corpse worms will then leave of their own accord. Each morning and evening, stroke the heart with the left hand while silently reciting the incantation, and they will be unable to cause harm. The incantation says:

“Emperor of the Nine Heavens, Eight Spirits of the Four Gates, Seven Luminaries and Two Mysteries, Three Purities and Nine Greens, Great One and Taokang, please ascend to the Three Pure Ones. Please report on my behalf to the Lord Emperor. Gather my thoughts and return them to Yellow Tranquility. At night summon the seven po; at dawn call the three souls, so that spirit and Qi may settle and become full. If anything inauspicious appears, send the divine troops of the Seven Stars. At the mere invocation of the True Spirits, cleanse the turbid Qi, refine and nourish the body, and destroy evil spirits and goblins. Bring the three spirits into harmony, gentle and at peace; subdue the blood corpse and return the spirits to the Crimson Mansion, the dwelling of the heart spirit, so that every action and direction may be proper and auspicious. Harmonize body and mind, enable me to become an immortal, and preserve my life and spirit for long ages. Swiftly, in accordance with the command of the High Supreme Jade Pure King of Divine Empyrean.”

Another text records this incantation:

“Jade Emperor of the Nine Heavens, Four Purities and Eight Radiances, Seven Mornings and Two Mysteries, gods of the Three Purities, please report to the Celestial Court through Taiwei and the Emperor One. Taokang and Heyan, please summon the three souls and raise them to the Jade Empyrean. Let the spirits return to the Golden Office and sweep away all inauspiciousness. If evil spirits dare to resist, send forth the divine troops in fire armor to do battle. May the immortals protect me and preserve my primordial Qi for long ages. Swiftly, in accordance with the command of the High Supreme Jade Pure True King of Divine Empyrean.”

The method of the Great Cavern Perfected One for refining the body with Jade Liquor.

First choose a Gengshen day, one of the days in the traditional sexagenary cycle. At sunrise, tap the teeth seventy-two times and draw in the dark and yellow qi from the southeast—the primordial energy spoken of in cultivation practice. Send it into the lower Dantian, the Neidan practice site below the navel, and visualize it changing into an infant. After reciting the incantation, press the tongue against the roof of the mouth and move it around until jade fluid forms there—the term for saliva in cultivation practice. When the mouth is full, swallow it and send it to the infant visualized above the stomach. At this point, keep the mind’s intent below the heart. Wait until the Lord opens his eyes before sending him the jade fluid. After ten days, practice again in the same way. Continue for ten days, and jade-like radiance will appear on the face; the body will regain its luster and no longer suffer from the hundred illnesses.

The incantation says: “Lord Taiyi, Perfected One of Fate: in the Han Palace, refine and nurture the spirit; in the Southern Palace, grant me a title. May the Three Terraces gather their essence, so that I may begin to be born. Pour jade fluid into the golden fluid, and let Metal Qi return to the Azure Perfected. By day, ascend through the air and rise to the Jade Lord. Hasten to obey the command of the Most High King of the Divine Empyrean.”

The Method for Refining the Body in Nanchang, bestowed by the Celestial Worthy of the Primordial Beginning upon the Celestial Officials of the Divine Empyrean:

“Heavenly spirit, heavenly spirit, entrust my original spirit to me. The Li position, one of the Bagua directions, is naturally free from illness; the Kan position, another Bagua direction, has neither form nor spirit. Cut away evil qi, open all the hundred gateways, wash away fiery qi, and unite the true qi. I follow the Way of Reverent Virtue; the water qi of the heavenly palace is clear and pure. Refine with fire, so that the womb palace, where the original spirit is nurtured through inner refinement, may be brought to completion. As I practice this method, the radiance of fire courses through my whole body. May the Five Emperors guard me and help me ascend to the Imperial Dawn. Hasten to obey the ordinances of the Elder Lord Han of Nanchang.”

Practice this method facing south during the six yang periods of the day, when yang energy is at its height, and recite the incantation. Draw in one breath, gather and swallow the qi, and repeat this three times seven, or twenty-one times.

Method for Constraining the Three Hun Souls, a practice for gathering and stabilizing them:

The method says: On the nights of the third, thirteenth, and twenty-third of each month, the Three Hun Souls leave the body and wander outside it. To gather them, lie on your back without a pillow, stretch out your legs, and fold your hands over your chest. Close your eyes, hold your breath for three breaths, and tap your teeth three times. Visualize a mass of red qi in your heart, about the size of an egg, rising from within your body into your mouth. This mass of qi is like a flame and covers your whole body; feel your body grow slightly warm. Then call out to the Three Hun Souls. The incantation says:

Within the Mysterious Palace of Great Tenuity, blue-green appears at the center, newly born. Inwardly, I refine the Three Souls so that Fetal Light, the soul that governs life and consciousness, may be at peace. The Spirit Treasure Jade Chamber comes into being together with me; I must not disturb it recklessly. The Guardian Spirit dwells in the Yellow Court, the palace of the spirits within the body, while the Great Spirit protects me. If I wish to ascend and travel far, I may go only to Jade Clarity, the abode of the Daoist honored deities. If I feel hunger or thirst, I swallow and drink jade essence, the jade-like fluid envisioned in cultivation. I must urgently and reverently obey the commands of the Perfected One of Great Unity, the Three Terraces, and the Jade Emperor.

Talisman for Subduing the Souls

For this talisman, strike the Heavenly Drum seventy-two times, using the fingers to tap the head or behind the ears as a cultivation practice. Write it in white on two sheets of yellow paper. For another talisman, sound the Golden Bell thirty-six times and write it in cinnabar on yellow paper. Then sound the Jade Chime twenty-four times. I must urgently and reverently obey the commands of the Perfected One of Great Unity, the Three Terraces, and the Jade Emperor.

Talisman for Subduing the Souls

For this talisman, strike the Heavenly Drum seventy-two times and write it in white on two sheets of yellow paper. For another talisman, sound the Golden Bell thirty-six times and write it in cinnabar on yellow paper. Then sound the Jade Chime twenty-four times and write it in black on white paper.

Method for Subduing the Corporeal Souls

On the first, fifteenth, and thirtieth days of each month, and on the twenty-ninth day of shorter months, the Seven Corporeal Souls are prone to wander and consort with ghosts and spirits. Use the method for subduing the souls and returning the corporeal spirits: on these days, lie on your back with your legs straight, cover both ears with your palms, and press your fingers together atop your head. Close your eyes, hold your breath for seven breaths, then tap your teeth seven times.

In your mind, envision a mass of white Qi the size of a bean at the tip of your nose. In a short time, it gradually grows larger and encircles your whole body in nine layers. Suddenly it transforms into two blue-green dragons, one in each eye; a White Tiger in the nostrils; a Vermilion Bird above the heart; a numinous serpent at the left foot; and a dark tortoise at the right foot. Below are two women in brocade robes, holding flames and guarding the entrances to the ears.

Swallow saliva seven times, then call the Seven Corporeal Souls by name: Corpse Dog, Hidden Arrow, Sparrow Yin, Swallowing Thief, Flying Poison, Removing Filth, and Stinking Lung. Recite the incantation:

“Pure Qi revolves nine times, subduing the Seven Corporeal Souls and driving back evil. The Heavenly Generals guard the doors, and the lovely maidens keep watch at the gates. Refine the Seven Corporeal Souls, making them gentle and compliant, so they may dwell peacefully with me. They must not move recklessly; they must attend to the body’s source. If they are hungry or thirsty, they may drink Yellow Elixir, the elixir fluid spoken of in Daoist cultivation.”

Recite the incantation before going to sleep.

At bedtime, visualize four divine beasts appearing to guard the body, restore the circulation of primordial Qi, calm the hun and po, and drive away harmful influences. The Heavenly Generals guard the gates, while the Maidens guard the passes. Let the hun and po be peaceful and gentle, at ease within you. Do not move recklessly; observe the body’s source. If you feel hungry or thirsty, you may drink yellow elixir (a name for an alchemical substance used in Daoist cultivation).

Bedtime Incantation

At bedtime, visualize four divine beasts appearing to guard the body.

The Azure Dragon emerges from my liver and guards my left; the White Tiger emerges from my lungs and guards my right; the Vermilion Bird emerges from my heart and guards my front; and the Black Tortoise emerges from my kidneys and guards my back. You four beasts, sharpen your teeth and take up your sharp swords. Guard me on every side, drive away all evil spirits and demons, and send them a thousand li away. Do not let them approach or invade my Jade Chamber (in Daoist usage, the inner sanctuary of cultivation within the body). Let me sleep peacefully, untouched by nightmares or spirits. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Incantation for Visualizing the Spirits

The liver governs the storing of the hun; the lungs govern the storing of the po; the heart governs the storing of Shen; the spleen governs the storing of intent; and the kidneys govern the storing of Jing. May the Azure Dragon return to my liver, the White Tiger to my lungs, the Vermilion Bird to my heart, and the Black Tortoise to my kidneys. May the Yellow Dragon guard my spleen and make my abdomen full and strong. Let no evil spirit or demon enter and dwell in my body. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Another Method

At bedtime, place your hand over your heart and pray:

Heavenly spirit, flourish and be honored; may I be protected and live long. Lords of the Five Viscera, may you all be at peace.

Male officials recite this seven times; female officials recite it twenty-four times. Then, keeping your hand over your heart, pray again:

Heavenly spirit, flourish and be honored; may I be protected and live long. Lords of the Five Viscera, may you all be at peace.

Male officials recite this seven times; female officials recite it twenty-four times. This practice may be used to pray for long life and freedom from illness.

Method for Appeasing Nightmares

If you have a nightmare, do not speak of it. In the morning, face east, rinse your mouth with water, then spray it out while reciting:

May the nightmare cling to the plants and trees; may the good dream turn into precious jade.

Method for Calming the Five Viscera

On the last day of each lunar month, when the night is deep and quiet, lie with your head to the north, place your left hand over your heart, and recite:

Lords of the Five Viscera, all are spirits of Dao and De. Sun Lord and Moon Lady, please join in guarding the body of the Perfected One, So-and-so.

Male officials recite this seven times; female officials recite it fourteen times. This practice may be used to pray for a longer life and many years of good health.

When going out, regularly visualize the Big Dipper’s celestial configuration—the direction formed by the stars—above your head, and silently recite the incantation without interruption. The scripture says this can prevent encounters with ghosts and spirits and ensure that your destination is reached safely and auspiciously. If you are going into battle, visualize the handle of the Big Dipper pointing forward and direct it toward the enemy; this will bring great good fortune.

Incantation: “Qian, Yuan, Heng, Li, Zhen; swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statute.”

Method for Subduing Demons

When going to sleep, walking through a dark place, or encountering malevolent ghosts and spirits causing trouble, sit or stand upright and silently recite the incantation.

Incantation: “Qian, Yuan, Heng, Li, Zhen; swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statute.”

Method for Subduing Demons

When going to sleep, walking through a dark place, or encountering malevolent ghosts and spirits causing trouble, compose your body and mind, clear away distracting thoughts, then recite the following text:

At the tip of a single hair, a treasure-like Buddha land appears; seated amid a mote of dust, one turns the vast Dharma wheel. In the midst of extinction, one accords with awakening; deep within worldly afflictions, one enters. Your wondrous awakened nature is like fire fanned by the wind; it is also like a knife cutting flowing water, with no real contact between them. You are like boiling water, while the other is like solid ice; as warmth gradually draws near, it will soon melt away completely.

Method for Relieving Tinnitus

If ringing in the ears continues without stopping, silently recite in your mind: “The spirit is present, the spirit is present, the spirit is present.”

Incantation for Dispelling the Sleep Spirit

Om jidi yidi pigana shandi batuo suohe.

When the ritual master gets into bed, they should step in first with the left foot and click their teeth forty-nine times; this can prevent sleep. The scripture also says that, combined with continued practice and self-cultivation, the effect is excellent.

Method for Averting Calamities

When lying down to sleep, day or night, if the ritual master fears encountering calamity or the “three calamities and nine misfortunes” (various disasters and misfortunes in Daoism), they should say:

Incantation: “I continue my practice and cultivate myself; the results are wondrous.”

I take Heaven as my father and Earth as my mother, and dwell between them, often like an infant. The sun is my Merit Officer, the divine official who conveys commands; the moon is my Registrar, the divine official who oversees documents. The Thunder Lord and the Lightning Mother stand at my sides, while the Wind Earl and the Rain Master are before and behind me. The Six Jia Day Guardians, divine protectors on duty, surround me. The Azure Dragon supports my left side, and the White Tiger guards my right. The Vermilion Bird leads me onward, and the Black Tortoise follows behind. The Northern Dipper arches above my head, and the Tiangang stars point toward my hands. The divine beast Tengshe guards beneath my feet and dispels calamity for me.

I dwell within the Elixir Chamber, the place in body and mind where Neidan is cultivated, accompanied by Taiyi, a revered Daoist deity. Three is on my left and seven on my right; nine is above my head and one beneath my feet. Two and four are at my shoulders, while six and eight are at my feet. I dwell at the center, filling my abdomen with these numbers. Now I command the thousand ghosts and ten thousand spirits: let each return to its proper place. Whoever offends me will surely die; whoever turns against me will surely perish. Flee at once and hide yourselves. The Celestial Strongmen, Heaven’s divine warriors, shall cut down evil influences and ill omens. Swiftly obey the command of the Most High True King of Jade Clarity in the Divine Empyrean.

This incantation can ward off the hundred evils and the ghosts of the Five Pestilences, and drive away all ghosts and spirits that stray from the right path. The ritual master should perform it in a clean room, regularly visualizing and reciting it.

Method for Restoring the Spirit

On the fifteenth day of each month and at month’s end, first say silently in your heart, “Spirit, spirit.” Then press your left hand against your chest, between the breasts, and silently recite the incantation: “Spirit, spirit, please dwell in my palace and enter my hall; stay with me in peace. Speak with me, and do not leave me again. Yellow Qi guards the center, transforming into spirit. Shine, shine; swiftly obey the command.”

Recite the incantation three times. This will cause the spirit to protect the body, preventing the hundred evils and all kinds of illness from entering.

Method for Brightening the Eyes

At cockcrow, visualize a person within each eye, three inches tall and dressed in black, and recite: “Shine, shine; swiftly obey the command.”

Recite the incantation three times. This will cause the spirit to protect the body, preventing the hundred evils and all kinds of illness from entering.

At dawn, when the rooster crows, visualize a person three inches tall inside each eye, dressed in black and standing upright. Then respectfully recite this incantation silently:

“The left is the sun, the right is the moon; together they shine with clear brilliance. They enable one to see through things and perceive what lies ten thousand li away.”

Recite it twenty-one times. If someone is ill, this should not be spoken of.

A Method for Dispelling Worry

If the eyelids twitch, the ears ring, the heart beats uneasily, the face feels hot, and a vague sense of worry arises, it means that something troubling is about to happen. Silently recite this incantation:

“Perfected One who Governs Life and Connects with Heaven, please use a golden cord to prolong [the person’s] life, so that [the person] may live without end.”

Recite it three times, and the symptoms will stop.

An Incantation to Prevent Hair Loss While Combing

“Above the Muddy Pellet, the upper Dantian of the head, are wondrous, mysterious radiance and precious vital essence. The hidden sun is on the left; the moon’s root is on the right. Today, refine the essence, and may the hundred spirits receive grace.”

After reciting it, comb the hair. It is said that the hair will never fall out and that one will also gain access to the spirits.

The Section on Penetrating Vision

Qingwei, Yuyu, Taichi

The talisman above may be worn on New Year’s Eve when sudden danger arises to avert calamity. Write it in black ink on yellow paper. It is said to be efficacious when worn.

Write the method above in cinnabar on yellow paper. Swallow it twice at midnight, during the Zi or Chou hour; it is said to have miraculous effects. When swallowing it, swallow saliva and hold the breath. Within a month, one can command the Six Ding, the six divine generals of Daoism, naturally know good and ill fortune, and foretell events in advance. It is said to be efficacious when worn.

Write the method above in cinnabar on yellow paper. Swallow it twice at midnight, during the Zi or Chou hour; it is said to have miraculous effects. When swallowing it, swallow saliva and hold the breath. Within a month, one can command the Six Ding, naturally know good and ill fortune, and foretell events in advance.

The True Taboos of the Six Jia

To perform this method, face east in spring, south in summer, west in autumn, and north in winter. Sit upright after the Zi hour and before the Wu hour. Tap the teeth thirty-six times, hold the breath and recite the incantation, then rinse the mouth with saliva nine times. Persist for one hundred days; it is said that the face will take on a jade-like radiance, the hundred spirits will protect the body, and one will be able to foresee good and ill fortune.

The True Taboos of the Seven Stars of the Northern Dipper

Write them in cinnabar, place them in a bamboo tube, and seal it with wax. Keep it in a chicken coop with the chickens for forty-nine days, then take it out. Swallow it with east-flowing water; it is said to clear and brighten the mind, enabling one to read ten thousand characters aloud each day.

The True Taboos of the Six Stars of the Southern Dipper

When carrying out this method, write the talisman on yellow paper and burn it over a lamp. If you see purple clouds or Qi, smell an unusual fragrance, or see a divine being appear in the lamp dressed in white, with disheveled hair and a precious sword in hand, it is an ill omen. If you see a divine being dressed in immortal robes, wearing a crown and holding a tablet, it is a favorable omen. This method is said to be able to bring the dead back to life and save people’s lives. During the rite, no filial mourners, Buddhist monks, chickens, dogs, women, or anything unclean or inauspicious may be present. Swallowing the talisman as prescribed is said to drive away spirits and malevolent beings, preserve life, and prolong one’s years.

Shangqing Subtle Practice Perfected One’s Talisman to Support the Righteous and Break Malevolent Influences

The ritual officiant enters a purified chamber, visualizes the deities descending, and draws in the Qi of Heaven and Earth, the sun and moon, and the five directions. The officiant then blows out this Qi to drive away spirits and malevolent beings, preserve life, and prolong one’s years.

Shangqing Subtle Practice Perfected One’s Talisman to Support the Righteous and Break Malevolent Influences

The officiant enters a purified chamber, visualizes the deities descending, and draws in the Qi of Heaven and Earth, the sun and moon, and the five directions. The officiant blows toward the brush before writing the talisman. For matters of great importance, the officiant must employ the Dingjia, the protective divine generals of Daoism, and invoke a particular deity. Following the deity’s command, the officiant draws in true Qi and infuses it into the talisman for the matter at hand. The incantation says:

“Numinous Lad of the Northern Dipper, one call brings a hundred responses;

Numinous Taiyi, one call brings a hundred responses.”

The ritual master recites the incantation seven times, then blows the talisman into water and flicks it in. The sick person swallows the water.

Drawing in the Qi of the Five Directions and Infusing It into the Talisman

“Numinous and responsive Lords of the Five Stars, please harmonize this person’s birth year and destiny. In urgent obedience to the commands of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning and the Perfected Lord, my master.”

Write one talisman and wear it on the head; write three more and swallow them. At nightfall, write another talisman. Use five-colored paper money to represent the person’s substitute, and prepare seven portions of tea and wine. In an open space facing the stars of the Northern Dipper, set up an incense table and light lamps and candles, then make offerings according to the ritual. The ritual master and the officiant assisting with the purification rite must recount the wrongs this person committed during their life, and silently report them to the Emperor of the Mysterious Vault of the Northern Dipper, the Seven Primordial Lords of the Northern Dipper, the Lords of the Left Assistant and Right Assistant Stars, and the various immortal officials and generals among the stars of the Northern Dipper. A certain person, in order to…

If one’s parents have been ill for a long time, or one is confined in prison because of a lawsuit, and the matter remains unresolved, write down the person’s birth year and allotted years of life, and pray for protection for the parents so that they may live longer. After the prayer, burn five-colored paper offerings beneath the Northern Dipper, and burn on that person’s behalf the paper offerings needed for a whole lifetime. At the same time, present a written statement listing the money and goods offered. Repent and make amends in this way three times each month to seek good fortune. Three days count as one year, and one year counts as one year of life; twelve years make one cycle.

A spell recited seven times on the days of Ding and Jia is said to be efficacious.

The above describes a method for a ritual master: before sleep, choose destinations in sequence, then face the Northern Dipper each night and wait for an omen.

Arrange the ritual implements in a clean room, perform the Bugang steps on a mat—a Daoist ritual involving prescribed walking patterns—and then lie down. Recite the Dipper spell, visualize yourself becoming an immortal white crane, gaze up at the Northern Dipper, and await the will of Heaven. Just before sleep, recite the Great Protection Spell again to receive the Great Teaching.

Those who receive and uphold the Great Teaching should visualize the spirits and recite the spell ten times each day, or even tens of millions of times. The merit cannot be fully described. The spell is as follows:

As the Great Emperor descends, the baleful energy dissipates, and grace pours down from the Nine Heavens of Shangqing. His ceremonial guard marches to the Five Sacred Peaks, where officials stand in ranks to welcome him, stretching for ten thousand miles. Wind and clouds gather; mountains, grasses, and trees all bow low before him. His carriage passes from the clouds over the Northern Sea, while rain reaches the distant lands of the south.

The Black-Killing Deity guards the central army, and the Heavenly Canopy Deity establishes the imperial camp. The spirit officials hold jade seals, while the Taiyi Deity bears golden essence. The Great Emperor takes his position in the east, riding a red tiger; the vanguard rides a giant whale. Lightning shoots forth like blazing fire, and thunder drums shake the heavenly court. His commands resound through the Three Realms, while the Six Ding Deities carry out the executions and punishments.

The honored deity Suhuang is known as Huoluo, and attendants present offerings that bring illumination. Nets are spread layer upon layer across the earth, while heavenly nets form a battle array. Fire wheels rise with red flames, and feathered canopies billow with blue smoke. Their might shakes Heaven and Earth; as they soar, the cosmos trembles. Their force can swallow the seas, and their power can overwhelm Mount Tai. The White Tiger corresponds to the Geng and Xin directions, while the Azure Dragon follows the Jia and Yi directions.

They cut down the arrogant and destroy the wicked and vicious. There is no need to labor in battle against the ghosts below or the frenzied, malign spirits. All the demons are now purged; the myriad ghosts quickly reveal themselves and flee. They must heed the sacred command of the Jade Pure Supreme Emperor and may not disobey.

Recite the incantation three times, draw in the breath of the northeast, and blow it out on either side of yourself. Form the Jade Hand Seal with your left hand, click your teeth thirty-six times, then write this talisman. Have someone carry it back and burn it in the center of the courtyard together with paper money and cloud horses—paper offerings burned in ritual. It is said that this can reveal and apprehend ghosts, spirits, and malign forces.

Talisman for Purifying Impurity

When an officiant performing rites passes through places considered impure—such as a household holding a funeral, a place tainted by foul energy, or a birthing room—or encounters things regarded as unclean, such as hounds or livestock, they should use this talisman upon returning to the ritual altar. Burn the talisman to ash and mix it with pure water. Face southeast, draw in one breath, and swallow it in three portions. Then recite the Jade Emperor’s incantation:

Divine and pure, jade nectar is the primordial fluid. The splendid palaces of Shangqing; the Primordial Lord Lao. The wondrous reaches the realm of Great Rosy Clouds, its radiance illuminating the mysterious talisman. The seven spirits take flight…

The divine spirits and pure gods bestow jade nectar and primordial fluids, the vital essence of the source. In the Flowery Chamber of Highest Clarity, the immortal realm of Highest Clarity, dwells the Venerable Lord of the Primordial Beginning. The wondrous spirit-energy enters the Great Rosy Clouds and illuminates the mystic talismans. Seven divine spirits descend like flying springs, while the Northern Feng, the netherworld in the north, receives the incense smoke of the offering. I occupy the throne of the Supreme King, ruling over and aweing the host of ghosts. The Eight Mighty Divine Generals breathe flames and stand respectfully beside the honored deity. Every kind of impurity is driven away, and no evil thing remains. The myriad demon kings protect people’s lives and bodies. This incantation must be carried out swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands. Recite it three times while forming the Jade Emperor’s hand seal, a gesture symbolizing the Jade Emperor. This is called the “Incantation of the Three Realms.”

Talisman for Dispelling Impurity and Purifying the Body

Recite the Incantation for Purifying Heaven and Earth, and draw in the Qi from the northeast. Write the incantation on talisman paper in cinnabar, then burn the talisman to ash, place the ashes in water, and recite the incantation. Draw in Qi from the northeast again and blow it into the water. When the ritual officiant, the Three Jia—related ritual offices or protective spirits in Daoist magic—and outsiders taking part in the rite use this method, they spray the water outward three times.

The incantation says:

Heaven and Earth move without cease; the essences of the sun and moon shine forth. Their radiance reaches across the four seas and cuts down demons, evils, and spirits. It subdues ghosts and specters, bringing them to rest, and makes the body shine with light. Once the divine radiance appears, all impurity is solemnly swept away. If anyone dares disobey, I will hand you over to the celestial troops. This incantation must be carried out swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Ritual for Setting Up the Altar

Whenever a ritual altar is established, it should face south, with its back to the north, and the seats of the Three Masters should be arranged. Place the seat of the Supreme Perfected Ones in the center, the seat of the divine generals on the left, and the seat of the ritual master on the right. If anyone dares disobey, I will hand you over to the celestial troops. This incantation must be carried out swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Ritual for Setting Up the Altar

Whenever a ritual altar is established, it should face south, with its back to the north, and the seats of the Three Masters should be arranged. Place the seat of the Supreme Perfected Ones in the center, the seat of the divine generals on the left, and the seat of the ritual master on the right. Set aside a seat for the Celestial Master, with a seal case beside it. Place a peach branch before the table and set a jar of water on the table. Put a mirror and a sword at the center of the altar.

Ritual for Performing the Prohibition

When performing a Daoist ritual, first enter a quiet chamber and recite the Incantation for Purifying the Body, followed by the Incantation for Purifying Heaven and Earth. After reciting these, continue with the Incantation for Entering the Household. Visualize the divine officers and spirit troops—generals who convey commands and protect the ritual altar—descending from the sky and taking their places on either side. As you form the hand seal, bend the two fingers to the upper joints, then perform the Yu steps and tread the Dipper positions, following the prescribed steps across the stars’ celestial positions.

Facing southeast, draw in Qi (vital energy), then blow to the left and to the right. Visualize yourself becoming the True King, guarded on all sides by the Four Divine Beasts. The Sun is on your left and the Moon on your right; the Five Planets are arrayed above your head, and the Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions encircle you. Your masters in the Divine Empyrean Palace appear on either side of you, surrounded as though by a dense mist.

Next, visualize the three masters—the True King, Qinghua, and Lord Han—within five-colored auspicious clouds in the southeast. After completing the three-tiered Ding steps, go to the incense table. Press both hands against your chest, click your teeth three times, and visualize nine-colored clouds of Qi rising from the incense and shooting straight up to the Nine Heavens. Then recite this prayer:

The sky is clear and bright; the Qi of Heaven and Earth is pure and harmonious; the three lights of the Sun, Moon, and stars shine brightly. In golden chambers and jade halls, the Five Zhi immortality herbs and precious treasures flourish. Auspicious hues of dark, yellow, purple, and white illuminate my body. Jade youths and maidens bring me the aid of the spirits. The nine Qi rise together, and the three lights of the Sun, Moon, and stars travel side by side. I ride upon a purple canopy and ascend to the palace of the Celestial Emperor. Hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands!

Then offer incense and state the purpose of your petition.

I, a subordinate vested with ritual rank, kindle precious incense and act according to the rites transmitted from the heavenly realm. As the golden censer is opened, auspicious Qi gathers in the air; as jade-colored smoke spreads, clouds of good omen form a canopy. When a response arrives, it must be examined with clear discernment. I sincerely pray that the numinous and perfected beings will descend and grant their response.

When performing the rite, I respectfully offer the incense of the Dao, the incense of De, the incense of Wuwei and purity, the incense of the natural, the wondrous incense of the Cavern of Truth, the incense of Lingbao wisdom, the incense that transcends the Three Realms, the incense of the perfected beings of the Three Heavens, and incense that fills the jade towers and capital and extends throughout the heavenly realms of the Dao. These offerings are made to the Three Pure Ones and the high perfected beings of the Ten Directions; to the Patriarch, the High Perfected Jade King of the Pure Heaven of the Divine Empyrean, the Heavenly Worthy of Long Life and Protection of Destiny; to the Patriarchal Master, the High King of the Jade Pure Heaven of the Divine Empyrean, the Heavenly Worthy of Qinghua, Salvation from Suffering, and the Great Unity Who Settles Destiny; to the True Master, the Lord of the Ninth Heaven, the Heavenly Worthy Who Increases the Years of Life, Directs Destiny, and Cherishes Life; to the Immortal Officials of the Eastern and Western Flower Terraces; the Perfected One of the Left Mystery; the Commissioner of the Court for Expelling Evil; the Chief Inspector of Divine Talismans; the two Great Generals who command the troops; the Great Generals of the Thunder Department; the officials and soldiers of the divine talismans; the merit officers and messengers; and all sovereign powers. I earnestly beseech you to send down your true Qi and infuse it into my brush technique, so that I may write Fulu and command spirits and ghosts, displaying mighty divine power. I, your subordinate, have offended the might of Heaven and deserve death ten thousand times over. In dread and awe, I bow my head twice and respectfully make my petition. If I am to report a matter to all sovereign powers, I must set out the matter truthfully in the memorial.

After the prayer is complete, recite the General Incantation once, draw in true Qi, and blow it onto the brush. Then strike the brush firmly three times before writing. At this time, do not speak with anyone, lest your spirit be depleted. On a piece of yellow writing material, use cinnabar to write one General Incantation and place it inside the brush handle. On each of the designated ritual days known as the Three-Nine Days, draw in true Qi three times and blow it into the brush handle; then strike the brush firmly three times, after which you may write. Do not speak with anyone, lest your spirit be depleted. This brush is to be used only for writing Fulu and must not be used for any other purpose.

Whenever performing rites at a sick person’s home, first wear the Diagram of the True Forms, a talismanic image depicting the true forms of divine generals. Face the center and tread the gang and dou, following the prescribed steps that imitate the movement of the stars. Then spread the Diagram of the Divided Domains on the ground. Visualize yourself within a palace built of true gold and jade, with thirty gates arranged around it. Each gate shines with golden light, while jade radiance surrounds you.

Next, form the chen mudra with your left hand and draw a talisman summoning the gongcao officials. Burn it in the Xun direction, the southeast. When they arrive, proclaim aloud: “I command the spirit officials, gongcao officials, generals, young lords, jade boys, jade maidens, and all clerks and soldiers of this bureau: immediately prepare your ceremonial guard and descend together to this bureau to await orders. I have business for you to carry out. Hasten and obey the law!”

Visualize the commanders described above surrounded by auspicious clouds in five colors, dressed in brocade robes of five colors, and holding newly forged weapons. Then burn the talismans of the left and right General Inspectors of the Altar, along with the general’s talisman, and proclaim: “I command you to lead your troops with me to a certain person’s home, seize the ghosts and spirits, make them possess a person, and require them to give their names. Act at once.” If the rite is needed for another purpose, burn the Inspector of the Altar and general’s talismans, make the proclamation in the same way, and apply them as appropriate to the matter at hand.

Invocation for Dispatching Generals

I act under the wise command of August Heaven and have received the talismanic mandate issued by the Jade Emperor. I have been granted a ritual office and given authority over the Jade Bureau of the Divine Empyrean. The Jade Emperor bestowed upon me the Nine Gifts, the Ten jia, the Register of Eight Powers, the chariot of Cinnabar Clouds, the Dragon-Patterned Writing and Phoenix Seal, and the Book of Purple Silk. Therefore I declare this to all the gods: none dares offend me. The Five Peaks and Four Rivers obey my commands. I order a certain divine general to go to a certain household and carry out a certain task, swift as wind and fire, without delay. All manner of demons, monsters, ghosts, and spirits must be destroyed upon command. Once the task is complete, report back at once and submit the merit to Jade Void. Within the Three Realms, who would dare obstruct me? The divine sword slays; the mighty troops race forth. I await with sword in hand before the ritual altar. Hasten to obey, in accordance with the command of the High Lord Celestial Worthy, the True King of Jade Purity of the Divine Empyrean!

Method for Subduing Evil and Treating Possession by Malign Spirits

When treating an illness, as soon as you reach the patient’s doorway, step over the threshold with your left foot. Imagine that the space before you has become a city of jade and golden towers—a sacred place of protection, built of jade and crowned with golden palaces. Then conceal yourself through the Dipper-stepping ritual, following its prescribed steps and the positions of the Dipper stars. Form the Dipper hand seal with your right hand. As you step with your left foot, recite the name of the Yang Dipper; as you step with your right, recite the name of the Yin Dipper. Then point your fingers toward the Dipper stars and form the seal, imagining their Qi enveloping you. Immediately recite the protection spell rapidly. Only then recite the patient’s name and proceed with the subsequent rites in order.

Protection Spell

Seven Lords of the Northern Dipper,

great sages who respond to the spirit.

The divine stars of the Three Terraces assist

before and behind, protecting my body.

Act at once, in accordance with the command

of the True King of the Jade Clarity of the Highest Heaven of Divine Empyrean.

Fire-Canopy Talisman

O spirit of flame, O spirit of flame,

you are the vital essence of the Fire Emperor.

A torrent of blazing fire surges ten thousand miles,

making ghosts and demons vanish without a trace.

Sprinkle it toward Heaven, and the sky grows clear;

sprinkle it toward Earth, and the land rests in lasting peace.

Sprinkle it upon a person, and they attain longevity;

sprinkle it upon ghosts and demons, and their forms are destroyed.

For a moment, leave the precious palace

and let the spirit of the Fire Canopy descend.

I respectfully summon the Great Fire-Wheel General of the South

to come and lend aid, releasing the Samadhi True Fire—the divine fire of Daoism—

to shield me on every side. Carry out the command at once.

Following this method, form the Great Fire-Wheel seal, pressing the middle finger onto the prescribed character or talismanic position. Imagine a human figure, like a general, riding upon the True Fire and leading a hundred thousand fire soldiers to surround and guard the place from front and behind. Picture the patient’s home as if it were entirely shrouded in smoke and flame.

Entering the Doorway

One hundred thousand celestial soldiers of the Jade Clarity of Divine Empyrean, seize the evil spirits at once and escort them to Fengcheng, the legendary city where ghosts are confined. Pursue and capture the soul, then deliver it to the patient. Apply the cang and kao instruments of punishment, and seize and subdue the spirit. Carry out the command in full, and make the possessing spirit state its name. Act at once.

Following this method, form the Chen seal and blow toward the Xun direction. Imagine celestial soldiers and warriors driving the evil spirit toward you. If the spirit has not yet arrived, use the Soul-Confusing Spell.

Following the ritual manual, write one “Talisman of the Guardian Spirit Official of One’s Natal Year” (a talisman used to summon the spirit official who guards a person’s life), and burn it beneath the patient’s feet. Visualize the spirit official, dressed in crimson celestial robes and wearing a nine-beam crown, arriving above the patient’s head. Recite the incantation:

“By the command of the Jade Purity of Divine Heaven, I urgently command that the living soul of [name] be entrusted to my keeping. Do not neglect this charge. With all haste, obey this command.”

Then recite:

“Heaven is dim, earth is dim; the six spirits are sunk in darkness. Spirit Official, attend at my side—quickly let me work my art and plunge them into darkness.”

Great Seizing Method

First perform the Dipper-step ritual, following prescribed steps that imitate the positions of the stars, and have the patient stand within the Dipper formation. Visualize divine officials surrounding the patient. By command of the Jade Purity, entrust the patient’s living soul to your keeping, without negligence. Then recite the earlier incantation beginning, “Heaven is dim, earth is dim.”

Great Seizing Method

First perform the Dipper-step ritual and have the patient stand within the Dipper formation. Visualize the divine officials gathering around and settling into place. Burn one talisman each for the Great General Supervisor and the Great General Commander of Troops beneath the patient’s feet. Recite the incantation:

“By command of the Jade Purity King of Divine Heaven, I summon the Great General Supervisor and the Great General Commander of Troops. Come swiftly to the ritual altar, and in accordance with the talisman’s command, seize and capture the evil spirit. Urgently compel it to possess the person and announce its name. With all haste, obey the laws of the High God, the True King of Divine Heaven.”

For this method, form the Chen hand-seal, draw in Qi from the due north and visualize it arriving. Then draw in the Qi of Divine Heaven and blow it toward the crown of the head. If the evil spirit has possessed the person, recite the incantation again. If it has not, continue reciting to urge it on.

“By command of the Jade Purity of Divine Heaven, I respectfully summon [name of a general] of the Jade Purity Palace of Divine Heaven. Act in accordance with the talisman’s command, and swiftly compel the evil spirit to possess the person. With all haste, obey this command.”

For this method, form the two-finger hand-seal and recite the incantation again to urge it on.

“By command of the Jade Purity of Divine Heaven, I respectfully summon [name of a general] of the Jade Purity Palace of Divine Heaven. Act in accordance with the talisman’s command, and swiftly compel the evil spirit to possess the person. With all haste, obey this command.”

For this method, form the hand-seal at the upper joint of the two fingers, circulate your own Qi, and visualize the two Great Generals standing on either side.

Binding with Stocks and Cangues

Following the ritual manual, write the Lihei talisman. Gather Qi according to the method and recite a blessing relevant to the purpose of the rite. Then burn the talisman beneath the patient’s feet. This is highly effective.

Illumination Method

The method says: have a child stand to the right of the ritual master, close their eyes, and use the “Incantation for Obscuring the Soul” (an incantation that clouds the soul and spirit):

“Flying hun souls, return, flying hun souls, return, descend immediately to the crown of the head. Living hun souls, return, living hun souls, return, emerge immediately from the crown of the head. By command of the law, swiftly!”

When performing this method, recite the incantation three times. Form the hand seal with the left hand, moving from the Hai position to the Mao position. Draw in the Qi of Shenxiao and blow it toward the ground beneath your feet. Then burn a Lingguan talisman inscribed with the person’s birth year and birth destiny. Afterward, recite the “Illuminating and Expelling Ghosts” incantation.

The incantation says:

“Celestial soldiers of Shenxiao (the heavenly troops of the Shenxiao Thunder Department), General Lingguan, drive away the aggrieved soul at once and make it appear before the sick person. If it is attached to the body, transfer it onto the sick person. By command of the law, swiftly!”

When performing this method, recite the incantation three times. Form the hand seal with the left hand at the Chen position, draw in Qi from the southeast, and blow three times. Then have a child exhale and blow it out. Afterward, open your eyes and look.

Celestial soldiers of Shenxiao.