《靈寶無量度人上品妙經》Vol. 5

The Dao says: In ancient times, the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning, a revered deity in Daoism, received the scripture The Supreme Scripture of Boundless Excellence: Deliverance and Averting Calamities for Rulers, Kings, Nobles, and the Lands of the World through Primordial Beginning. This took place in the Jade Radiance and Peaceful Splendor Pure Land within the Heaven of Serene Celebration.

Before beginning to preach the scripture, the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning circled the scripture altar ten times to summon the divine perfected beings of the ten directions. He then ascended the ritual seat. Countless deities arrived through the air: the great divine beings of Heaven, the exalted sages and high lords, the Radiant Treasure Perfected Ones, the immortal kings of the heavens, the lords and nobles of the Supreme Ultimate, the immortal elders to his left and right, and the ministers and divine officials. They rode jeweled heavenly steeds, flowing carriages, and cloud chariots, their vehicles blazing with splendor. Golden chariots raced through the sky as clouds of five colors shimmered together. Their attendants stood arrayed like stars; the Nine Spirits revealed auspicious signs, and light shone in every direction.

For seven days and seven nights, the Three Realms of the heavens and the domains of the immortals celebrated together. The perfected beings united in practicing De, and both the human world and the heavens enjoyed health and long life. Calamities were dispelled, and all people rejoiced in peace. The lands, mountains, rivers, and forests throughout the heavens and the human world became smooth and level, with no high or low places; the earth turned to yellow jade, and all other colors vanished. The perfected beings stood in attendance beside the seat. The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning sat poised in the empty air, above nine-colored radiance, jeweled flowers, and the Jade Dragon of Great Harmony, and began to preach.

When he had preached the scripture once, the great sages of the heavens praised him in unison. At that moment, the atmosphere throughout the world became calm and clear. After he preached it twice, demons and baleful influences no longer appeared. After three times, the seasons and weather grew harmonious. After four times, the stars followed their proper courses, and the sun and moon shone steadily. After five times, the five grains flourished, and calamities and misfortunes ceased. After six times, people preserved their true nature and cast aside what was false, and no longer gave rise to greed. After seven times, the people’s De returned to benevolence; they became prosperous, long-lived, healthy, and secure. After eight times, the true Way spread widely, and all beings could fulfill their nature. After nine times, the lives of kings and emperors were lengthened. After ten times, the heavens and the human world celebrated together, and blessings became boundless.

At that time, men and women throughout the whole realm sincerely turned toward the Dao. All received protection and deliverance, and attained long life.

The Dao says: When the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning had preached the scripture once, the Great Sage of the Eastern Boundlessness, the Great Deity Who Dispels Calamities, led countless followers through the air to attend. After he had preached it twice, the Great Sage of the Southern Boundlessness, the Great Deity Who Averts Misfortune, led countless followers through the air to attend. After three times, the Great Sage of the Western Boundlessness, the Great Deity Who Scatters Calamity, led countless followers through the air to attend…

When the scripture had been expounded for the fourth time, the Great Deity of Boundless Holiness in the north, the Great Deity Who Removes Calamity, led countless gods through the air to attend. When it had been expounded for the fifth time, the Great Deity of Boundless Holiness in the northeast, the Great Deity Who Destroys the Ugly, led countless gods through the air to attend.

When it had been expounded for the sixth time, the Great Deity of Boundless Holiness in the southeast, the Great Deity Who Beheads Evil, led countless gods through the air to attend. At the seventh recitation, the Great Deity of Boundless Holiness in the southwest, the Great Deity Who Sweeps Away Defilement, came with countless gods. At the eighth, the Great Deity of Boundless Holiness in the northwest, the Great Deity Who Executes Heresy, came with countless gods. At the ninth, the Great Deity of Boundless Holiness above, the Great Deity Who Brings Pestilence to an End, came with countless gods. At the tenth, the Great Deity of Boundless Holiness below, the Great Deity Who Subdues Demons, came with countless gods.

When the scripture had been expounded ten times, the supremely true great gods who dispel and avert calamities in the world arrived together from the boundless worlds in the ten directions—the four cardinal directions, the four diagonal directions, above, and below. The rulers, ministers, and people of the heavenly kingdoms all sincerely turned toward them in reverence. The arriving hosts surged like clouds and gathered like mist. Their numbers were without end; they filled the kingdoms until the earth tilted and sank beneath them. Their force was unstoppable.

At that moment, the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Origin conjured a divine pearl, as large as Yuyi, the Daoist name for the sun. Its light gathered into a brilliant radiance, and the pearl rose, descended, and circled through the open sky. The Celestial Worthy guided its light so that it shone throughout all the heavens, illuminating the Realized Ones, great gods, supreme sages, exalted beings, and Radiant-Treasure Realized Ones. It also illuminated the gods who dispel and avert calamities in the boundless worlds of the ten directions, along with their rulers, ministers, and people. Countless gods entered the divine pearl.

The heavenly beings looked up and saw the rulers, ministers, and people of the heavenly kingdoms, together with the great gods who dispel and avert calamities, streaming from the light into the pearl. Once inside, they vanished from sight, and no one knew where they had gone. The crowds in the kingdoms then dispersed, and the earth became level again, no longer tilted or sinking.

Afterward, the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Origin finished expounding the scripture within the divine pearl. The Realized Ones presided over the rite and transmitted the scripture to me. The joy and celebration of that moment defy description, and the ritual was for the most part complete. The gods of the various heavens each returned to their proper place. In an instant, all was silent, and not a trace remained.

Thus, in such a time, if beings of Heaven and humanity encounter and follow this scripture and its teachings, they can all receive deliverance and each preserve their allotted years, free from harm.

The world is at peace and all things flourish. There is no conflict, illness, injury, punishment, killing, disturbance, or theft; people do not die before their time or suffer bodily harm. Those above and below are united in purpose, sustaining harmony through benevolence and virtue. They care for one another, and even people of different lineages become as close as one family. The state is secure, the people are prosperous, and everyone gladly enjoys peace.

This scripture begins to spread its teachings throughout the world, enabling all nations to follow the Great Dao. All who approach it with utmost sincerity, revere it, and pay it homage can receive deliverance.

The Dao says: The words spoken by the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning are all the hidden sounds of the inner names of the gods of the heavens; they are also the secret inner names of the True Kings and the concealed names of the myriad spirits. “Inner names” and “secret inner names” refer to the names of deities transmitted in secret. Reciting these names in particular tones, as prescribed in the scripture, is believed to communicate with the gods, dispel calamities, and protect the world.

The kings and lords of the nations in the ten directions, if they wish their realms to endure and remain secure for generations, to protect their lands, and to prevent the ravages of war, droughts and floods, the spread of banditry, and hardship among the people—while ensuring that the seasons are harmonious and all things thrive—should follow the scripture’s teachings and perform rites to avert calamity in the Five Directions (east, south, west, north, and center). They may display sacred scriptures, or wear, receive, and welcome a talisman of protection and good fortune that safeguards the state. They may also establish an altar, pray, perform a Zhaijiao rite (Daoist purification and sacrificial ritual), and recite these sacred scriptures to dispel calamities and preserve peace. These are no ordinary worldly words.

The perfected sages who have attained the Dao understand its mysteries and probe its hidden depths; they can fully comprehend the scripture’s chapters. When they recite it ten times, the heavens respond from afar, bringing enduring prosperity to the world: calamities and illness are dispelled, floods and fires subside, governance and religious instruction are perfected, virtue flourishes, blessings arrive in succession, and the people and all things live in ease and harmony.

Those who study and cultivate the Dao, when they recite it ten times, receive the responsive aid of Heaven and Earth, and the spirits are moved to answer them. The movements of the cosmic framework proceed in due order, creation continues without end, the state’s blessings endure, and auspicious signs grow ever more numerous. This is because, when the world’s polluted Qi dissipates, the Qi of the Dao returns to its pure and harmonious state. The wondrous rites for dispelling calamity can summon and command mighty spirits, so that they guard the course of the age, repel disasters, and maintain due measure, thereby sustaining the world in a state of peace and good order.

As long as one follows the Dao of Wuwei (non-action), there is no need for further concern. To recite this passage carelessly, however, will bring calamity. If one makes offerings to and reveres this scripture, the state will prosper and the world will flourish in brightness and abundance. By forming ties with goodness, one will remain untouched by the myriad calamities, while the gods guard the household’s gates. This scripture is supremely honored and mysterious, standing out among the scriptures of the Jade Capital, the celestial city of the Daoist heavens. It can dispel every kind of portent and calamity and is the root of the myriad paths. Its methods reach to the highest heights, and its beneficence is beyond full account.

According to the scripture, if it is recited ten times, the heavenly realms will all descend. In any country, wherever rulers, princes, and ordinary people live, they may receive the subtle transformation of the Dao and share in its blessings. People and all things will be nourished, and Virtue’s grace will spread evenly everywhere. Evil Qi will be gradually transformed; treacherous and wicked deeds will no longer grow. Harmony will flourish, the world will become peaceful and tranquil, and blessings will naturally arrive. In this way, one may come into accord with the Jade Perfected, the realm of the perfected immortals.

Those who study and practice the Daoist teachings, cultivating and reciting this scripture, can dispel illness and calamity from the country and bring auspiciousness. When people receive and recite it, they can protect their families and their country above, and avoid personal misfortune below. They can remain loyal and filial throughout their lives, and prolong their years. In time, through refinement, they may transcend life and death, return from spiritual decline to their original nature, and, after ascending to immortality, roam the Great Clarity, the pure realm of heaven.

This scripture is subtle and vast, and universally saves countless beings. All heavenly beings and humans thereby receive blessings and good fortune. Its blessings are immeasurable, and the world, too, receives its grace. The scripture is a treasure cherished by Heaven, and is not passed on to ordinary people. Only a person of the Dao may receive it after presenting gold, silk, and other treasures and making a solemn oath to Heaven in sincerity. If it is disclosed carelessly or treated with neglect, calamity will extend to nine generations of ancestors, leaving them detained in the underworld for a long time. The Five Emperors’ Jade Youths and Jade Maidens who attend the scripture number twenty-four of each. They guard its divine text and protect those who receive it.

The scripture also says that undertaking a long fast and reciting it in the first month can offer prayers on behalf of rulers, princes, and the people to avert calamities caused by imbalances between Heaven and Earth and Yin-Yang, and bring those calamities to an end. Undertaking a long fast and reciting it in the seventh month can dispel disasters caused by irregular movements of the sun, moon, and stars, and support and protect people’s life and destiny. Undertaking a long fast and reciting it in the tenth month can dispel calamities in the world and prolong the life of the state. It can also invite perfected immortals to descend, secure the state’s destiny, and ensure that the country endures and its generations continue. When the ruler brings peace to the land, the people can praise the reign as peaceful and prosperous.

Reciting this scripture at the Eight Seasonal Nodes—the Beginning of Spring, Spring Equinox, Beginning of Summer, Summer Solstice, Beginning of Autumn, Autumn Equinox, Beginning of Winter, and Winter Solstice—will cause its efficacious blessings to spread widely and protect the people. Reciting it on one’s natal day, the day in the sexagenary cycle corresponding to one’s birth date, can dispel calamity and protect the body’s Three Fields, Eight Radiances, and Nine Palace joints, as well as its numinous perfected beings, organs, and deities. This keeps the body’s Shen and Qi connected throughout and prevents one’s lifespan from being diminished. In this way, one can dispel worldly misfortune, protect all things so they may flourish together, and accomplish deeds of noble merit, bringing the radiance of sage-like Virtue to light.

Attendants from the Three Realms will escort the reciter, the Five Emperors will welcome them, and the myriad deities will come to pay homage. The reciter’s name will be entered in the registers of Heaven. When their merit is complete, they may ascend through the air to Highest Clarity.

The scripture further says that whenever a rite of practicing the Dao is performed, one should bathe with fragrant water and observe a fast before entering the chamber.

Face east, click your teeth together thirty-two times, thereby conveying your intention to the hearts of the thirty-two heavens. Bow thirty-two times. Close your eyes and meditate quietly, sitting upright amid clouds of blue, yellow, and white Qi. Within and around your body is a vast, shadowy depth. The Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise—the divine beasts of the four directions—stand in ranks to either side, along with lions and white cranes. The sun and moon shine brightly, illuminating the room. A round radiance forms above your head, its light reaching in all ten directions. Picture these scenes clearly and distinctly.

Silently recite the secret incantation:

O Supreme Mystery, Primordial Origin, Most High Lord of the Dao, summon from within my body the Three-and-Five Merit Officers, who convey memorials and communicate with the divine; the attendant envoys on the left and right; the Jade Youths who attend to incense; the Jade Maidens who transmit messages; the Five Emperors’ Talisman Officers; and the Incense Envoys on duty today—thirty-two of each—to convey my petition on my behalf.

Today is an auspicious day. In this purified fasting hall, I practice the Dao and recite the Wuliang Duren Jing (Scripture of Universal Salvation). May my petition reach the hearing of Heaven and be delivered directly to the supreme throne of the Primordial Lord of the thirty-two heavens.

(When the bows are complete.)

Inhale thirty-two times, then face east and recite the scripture.

The Wondrous Supreme Scripture of the Primordial Beginning on Universal Salvation

This chapter of the Primordial Cavern Mystery Numinous Treasure, a revered teaching within the Daoist scriptural tradition, is a supreme wondrous method for dispelling calamities, averting portents of disaster, protecting rulers and nobles, and safeguarding all beings in the world. Divided into ten sections, it is a hidden text for delivering the myriad spirits. Its words combine and transform, arising spontaneously; they contain the Five Qi and jade script and form the foundation of the wondrous teachings of the Three Heavens.

At the beginning of chaos, divine perfected beings arose in response. They discerned and determined the myriad forms, giving each thing its own shape. Their radiance spread everywhere and joined with the light of the Dao, encompassing the Three Realms and connecting the eight directions.

The kingdoms and territories of every direction are governed by their respective emperors and rulers. Affairs in the world should honor the will of the Highest Mystery—Heaven and the Dao—and take moral conduct and instruction as their standard. Signs of change in movement and stillness appear as calamities or auspicious omens. Good deeds bring blessings; evil deeds invite misfortune.

This principle is deep and subtle, in accord with the workings of Heaven. A nation’s prosperity depends on the mysterious laws. The Golden Chapters of the Imperial Pole, the heavenly laws that govern Yin-Yang Qi, administer the spirits and examine fortune and misfortune. Matters concerning them are gathered in the Jade Hall, the Mysterious Terraces on the left and right, and the Cloud Chambers of Cinnabar Spirit. The divine offices investigate what is favorable or adverse and the sources of hardship, then respond to the cycles of Qi to dispel disaster and resolve calamities, allowing the Qi of Great Harmony to flow everywhere.

Among them are divine officers who oversee instruction, protection, and salvation; the two august sovereigns of utmost perfection and the spirits of the Grand Tenuity; the Five Elders, who turn back calamities and banish evil; the Ancestor of the Dao and the Celestial Perfected of Great Unity; and the Ninefold Numinous, Wondrous, Primordial Spirit, who holds the central pivot. The Jade Consort of Western Radiance can reverse wrongdoing and dispel calamities; her merit is boundless. Today, they reveal and teach the Dao, and the spirits of the heavens come before the hall.

In the Eastern Realm Without Limit, the Divine King who averts and dispels calamities, the Great Sage of Long Life, the Universal Deliverer…

In the south, west, north, northeast, southeast, southwest, northwest, above, and below, there is in each direction a mighty deity who dispels calamity and hardship, presides over long life, and guides living beings toward liberation. The mighty deities of the Ten Directions—the above and below, the four cardinal directions, and the four intermediate directions—protect the world together, making calamities vanish and blessings descend everywhere.

These deities ride heavenly steeds adorned with treasures and cloud chariots crowned with canopies, golden carriages, and flying wheels. They command jade phoenixes and golden dragons, hold tokens that summon the gods, and are preceded by banners that call forth numinous spirits. In their procession, those before and behind chant in turn the “Song of the Cavern of Emptiness” and the “Chapter of the Heavenly Treasure.” Azure luan birds and white cranes cry out in harmony, while immortals ride along, surrounding the procession in front and behind. They halt their retinue to inspect whether those cultivating the Way are following the correct path.

The chief officials of the Ten Directions, the divine lords of the myriad kingdoms, the rulers of the celestial bureaus, and the divine officers who command all spirits also carry tokens of authority and keep the registers. They gather at the palace of the Celestial Emperor to examine good and evil and investigate the roots of calamity. By command, they patrol every part of the world, the divine offices of the Nine Lands and Divine Provinces, and celestial institutions such as the Outer Court of the Divine Empyrean. The immortal officials jointly administer the Nine Palaces, the great roads of the Eight Directions, and the Twelve Heavenly Origins, overseeing the changes of the times and the power to transform and nurture all things.

They sweep away violence and evil and block the paths of wrongdoing, leaving no way for malevolent spirits to cause disturbance and dispersing uncanny influences. The highest Lingbao teachings can bring stability to the world, dispel calamities, turn misfortune into good fortune, and bring blessings, allowing the fortunes of the state to endure without end. Sovereigns and lords dwell in natural tranquility, upright and respectful, practicing Wuwei (non-action) and enjoying peace and blessings. The people and all things live in safety and endure through generations.

Calamities in the world subside, dark clouds disperse, and the three realms of heaven, earth, and humanity become clear. The movements of Yin-Yang no longer fall into disorder; the four seasons proceed in harmony, the Five Phases and the stars move in their proper order, and the two cycles of change—those of Yin-Yang, heaven and earth, and the like—unfold in due measure. The source of this wondrous efficacy runs through the Great Mystery. In the heaven of the Great Mystery, the Celestial Emperor sees with penetrating clarity; in the realm of the Primordial Sovereign, pure and solemn cultivation is paramount.

The Eight Heavens of the East.

The scripture lists the names of the heavens in each direction and the titles of the Celestial Emperors who rule them. “Heaven” refers to the celestial realm, and “Emperor” to the ruler of that heaven. Most of the heaven names and imperial titles here are proper names and should not be interpreted as ordinary words.

(The eight heavens in the preceding direction; the original does not specify the direction.)

Lanbu Zhenqi Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Nan Boji Cheng;

Zhenping Sihua Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Yue Fu Mingjin;

Gongguan Zhengshen Wujing Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Suo Ke Ling;

Daoduan Keqiu Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Bao Ci Guanshen;

Zhenhua Zongming Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Hou Changdu;

Yunyang Fushi Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Meng Qi Huishan;

Funawa Shen Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Yong Dasi;

Dongling Jifang Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Liu Jingbiao.

Eight Heavens of the South

Juehui Danyuan Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Nüshang Yi Xuan;

Changying Yankong Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Xue Tong Cibu;

Guangde Baosheng Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Du Baihuan;

Hongyou Yuanzhi Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Zhao Wutuo;

Zeshi Puyang Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Yun Ta Mo Xun;

Lizu Jilong Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Kui Yuan Zhongjia;

Fuxi Zhaoji Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Xiao Youlun;

Zhengtong Shenji Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Dong Huang Lizun.

Eight Heavens of the West

Daogong Weimiao Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Chu Xian Weiji;

Liansu Zhengzhen Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Deng Bao Miaochi;

Qiling Shengshi Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Ya Xuan Zhiyi;

Baibao Lüwan Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Lüe Bo Ji Wang;

Shunci Jiming Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Long Qiu Xinzhong;

Zhizang Dunmang Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Tui Ji Yuan;

Wuwei Zonghao Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Zhu Guang Langtong;

Yuning Zhenglong Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Shun Hui Lingfu.

Eight Heavens of the North

Xuansheng Wuzhen Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Bao Yi Qu Xian;

Shi Xuan Jingcui Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named Bo Shi Bianneng;

Jiejing Jianshen Mingzu Heaven, ruled by the Emperor named He Shi Longmen.

This passage chiefly lists the names of the celestial realms in each direction and their rulers. The heaven names and imperial titles are proper names in Daoist scriptures. The original lists only three northern heavens at the end, and some characters are rare in form; they are reproduced as given, without conjectural interpretation.

The Heaven of Far-Reaching Dragon and Universal Transformation, Contemplation of Truth: its emperor is Shidi Yicong;

the Heaven of Upright Merit and Advancing Righteousness: its emperor is Yaoguang Heziqing;

the Heaven of Great Mystery and Thought Beyond Heaven: its emperor is Zhaobian Zhuqi;

the Heaven of Separation from Affliction and Established Transformation: its emperor is Monayouyu;

the Heaven of Commanding Danger and Treading the Mystery: its emperor is Xusheng Doucha.

These lines list the heavens and the names of their celestial emperors. They are concealed names and taboo names in the scripture. Their wording is obscure, and their precise meanings cannot be established with certainty, so they should be retained as they appear in the original.

The thirty-two heavens, their thirty-two celestial emperors, and the concealed names of the heavens together form a vast and boundless chapter of the Caverns, marked by mystery and transformation.

From within emptiness and stillness, without form, the music of the Nine Heavens takes shape. The honored deities of the Three Realms—the three levels of heaven in Daoist teaching—along with the spirits who establish the order of heaven and earth and the great flying demons, use their divine powers to protect and subdue. Yin-Yang moves in its cycles, and the laws of order become manifest. From this, all things come into being. The wondrous workings of creation are vast and immeasurable: they nurture all perfected beings, defend the state and protect its people, dispel calamities, quell the forces of demons and malign spirits, seize evildoers and rebels, sweep away treachery and violence, avert misfortune, and bring floods to an end.

The True King oversees and recommends those who have transgressed, enabling them to be delivered. The Celestial Pass and the Eastern Dipper bring abundance and flourishing to all things; the Western Dipper commands the armies; the Northern Dipper determines the span of life; and the Southern Dipper governs the issuing of decrees. The Central Dipper cultivates virtue, extending its grace to all the people. The Azure Emperor prepares the documents, the White Emperor examines and judges with discernment, the Red Emperor issues commands, the Black Emperor investigates treachery, and the Yellow Emperor comprehends the Great Dao and directs all the celestial officials.

The Azure Youth carries a banner and puts down rebellion; the Red Youth holds a tally and dispels fires; the White Youth bears a flag and brings the peoples of the four quarters into submission; the Dark Youth raises a standard so that the granaries fill with grain; and the Yellow Youth holds a great axe and guards the Hall of Illumination. The numinous youths of the Five Heavens possess powers of transformation beyond measure. They govern the Three Realms and set the constant patterns of the Way of Heaven in motion. They summon spirits and regulate Qi, strike the jade bells, proclaim commands and spread teachings, and fly through the heavens.

The cinnabar heavens blaze with light and power, their work equal to that of the Great Dao. They guard and bring peace to the lands of the human realm, ensuring the endless protection of the Way of Heaven. The Most High Mystery sends down commands and dispatches talismans to inform Beifeng, the netherworld office in the north that governs ghosts and spirits. The True King protects the territories of the world, bringing peace and well-being to all under Heaven. The precious book of true writings suppresses inauspicious forces everywhere.

The numinous spirits of the eight directions assist in guarding and defending, while the power of thunder and lightning surges forth. Golden beasts, celestial horses, divine phoenixes, venomous dragons, and whirling, flying spirit bells charge forward amid fierce wind and fire. The flames blaze with brilliant light, illuminating the high heavens. They destroy demons and malign spirits, bringing peace under the imperial Way, longevity to the state, and tranquility throughout the world.

Demons and malign spirits cannot intrude or make trial of the people; ghosts and apparitions have nowhere to hide. The offices of the Six Heavens patrol the ghostly host in due order. They must not neglect their duties or give free rein to disorder, nor allow malign forces to intermingle and wreak havoc. Word is sent throughout to the Three Officials—the Officials of Heaven, Earth, and Water—and all the myriad spirits come to hear the commands. The Five Emperors of the Three Realms report together to Shangqing.

The Three Qi brought forth by the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning, a high deity of Daoism who symbolizes the universe’s origin, spread forth in fragrant currents and gave birth to the spirits. Above, they are arrayed among the Nine Palaces; below, they extend throughout the nine deep abysses.

The true essence of the Great Wilderness fills the heavenly palaces of Purple Void and Jade Purity. Its radiance shines high and far, reaching the heavenly realms of Dark Mystery, Azure Vastness, Green Firmament, White Brilliance, and Jade Flame. It circles Great Brahma Heaven and winds around such immortal realms as Plain Cloud, Mist and Rosy Clouds, Golden Towers, Yellow Chambers, Jade Capital, Treasure Mountain, Cinnabar Rosy Clouds, Yulei, Pearl Buds, and Vast Cold.

This universe is vast and profound, stretching without end; its spirit palaces soar to great heights. The Qi of primordial chaos descends and turns between the strong winds and the Nine Waters, circulating without cease, vast and boundless. Beyond the formless void, it sets the cosmic order in motion, sustains all things, and continually spreads and transforms.

The heavens give birth to the myriad kinds of beings, and rulers govern them. A ruler’s body receives the Qi of Heaven and Earth, and the ruler’s station is exalted. Only when the Qi of Yin and Yang rises and falls in harmony can the myriad things grow; the subtle, balanced Qi of primordial harmony nourishes the people. If Yin grows excessive and Yang falls into disorder, disasters will follow one after another.

War, famine, floods, drought, epidemics, and spreading poisons bring premature harm to the people and all living things. How can these calamities be removed? One may recite and uphold the seven true seals from the Ling Pian of the Three Caverns (Dongxuan). The Jade Writings of the Five Emperors, the Stone Essence, the Golden Radiance, and the Taidan Xuanzing can dispel calamities in the human world, keep the state peaceful and prosperous for a long time, and bring the Five Constant Virtues and Seven Luminaries into proper harmony and order. The ruler thereby receives blessings, and the state enjoys lasting peace.

Those who recite and uphold these texts journey upward through Jade Void, among the flying wheels of the ninefold transformations, and enter the Palace of Great Subtlety and the realm of the Mysterious Pole. Through examination by the Three Origins, the Correct Way flourishes, and the heavens grow clear and vast, solemn and lofty. Scarlet clouds, the Great Radiance, Yin Florescence and vermilion flames, and azure crystal light all rise in splendor and spread into rosy hues.

The Way of Heaven prizes harmony. The Scripture on Deliverance from Boundless Suffering saves beings without limit. As beings pass in and out through the gates of the eight directions, the roots of life and transformation unfold. Whether the calamities of Yang Nine and Hundred Six, floods and fires, or the disasters of war, all receive universal aid. Misfortune and calamity are dispelled, and the world finds peace, joy, and well-being.

These scriptures reach up to the Three Heavens. Above them, the Jade Emperor dwells in a mysterious palace, where chapters for dispelling worldly calamities are kept. The precious books of the Eight-Vista Heaven correspond in their words to the high perfected ones, the exalted deities of Heaven.

Chapter One: The Airborne Hymn for Protecting and Guarding the Ruler of the State

The divine mound of Fuluo

receives its register of names

bestowed by the Purple Emperor,

and arrives riding clouds and mist.

Light from the eight directions

shines and interweaves.

The Jade Tower appears, marked with dragon patterns,

protecting and guarding the emperor.

How mysterious and wondrous

are the exalted deities of the Divine Empyrean!

They raise this great bridge of deliverance.

Heavenly light descends upon the Palace of Purple Tenuity,

and precious talismans subdue the many demons and evils.

The immortals, light and graceful, return to the Supreme Emperor,

ascending in procession to the scarlet clouds.

The ruler of the state receives abundant blessings,

while a heavenly song rings clear through the deep, open vastness.

Peace endures through generations;

prosperity and flourishing are blessings brought by the Dao.

The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning bestows the numinous chapters.

How bright is the Dao-sound of Great Brahma Heaven!

The region has been purified, and the roots of evil have all been removed. As long as one sets oneself straight, the Dao will descend. Even after countless kalpas, it is not far away.

Chapter Two: Dispelling Calamities from Lords and Princes

The Great Dao is widely put into practice, its transformations without end. In the lofty heavens, lords and princes are all established in their places. Like wings supporting and guards protecting, they are many in number, working together to uphold and maintain the grand order.

The teachings of the Great Dao reach down to the human world, where people look up to and follow the lofty Way of Heaven. The achievements of the myriad beings are attributed to the emperor. The emperor sets in motion the Qi of the Northern Dipper’s celestial pole and governs Kunlun. He summons immortals and gathers perfected beings, opening the way to instruction so that people may transcend the world and ascend.

Harmonious Qi responds and descends, nurturing the people. It sweeps away evildoers and cuts off the roots of wicked spirits, purifying and pacifying the world. If one obtains the Three Mysterious Treasures, tokens of the true radiance of the Imperial Ultimate, one can command the assembled troops and ascend the Jade Steps with flying immortals, roaming through the heavens. Wherever one goes, all proceeds smoothly; one guides the spirit upward to the higher realms and dwells forever in the Purple Court, the celestial palace.

Chapter Three: Song for Dispelling Calamities in the World

Above are the Nine Heavens; below are the Nine Abysses. The radiance of the Great Dao is vast and boundless, extending in every direction. It sets the fundamental order in motion and thereby brings stability to the human world.

Once the borders of the realm are set right, the emperor occupies his honored seat. The Three Realms of Heaven stand in ordered array, and the Five Sacred Peaks are made secure. The Celestial Emperor dwells in the Divine Continent and governs all spirits.

When calamities arise, they are dispelled through Jade Writs, sacred Daoist talismans. The mysterious melodies and the scripts of the eight directions comprise sixty-four chapters, capable of penetrating Heaven and Earth. When the Six Qi of Heaven and Earth intertwine, these scriptures sweep away misfortune, evil, and impurity. Their memorials are presented to the Mysterious Heaven to protect and stabilize the world, bring prosperity and peace to the realm, and pacify the Three Realms.

The Ultimate Dao has no form, yet its mystery can be transmitted. Its profound Virtue extends to all beings. Pay reverence to the scriptures of the Divine Empyrean.

This is the song sung by the True King who dwells above the Three Realms and flies through the heavens; every line resonates with the Cavern Chapters. Recite it a hundred times, and the Four Seas will become harmonious and peaceful. Recite it together a thousand times, and the people will be transformed through its teachings, bringing a joyful and harmonious age. Recite it ten thousand times, and the Daoist teachings will be complete; blessings will endure without end, all beings will be saved beyond the Three Realms, and virtuous achievement will flourish.

This revered numinous text can seal off mountains, summon spirits, and command the earth deities—the gods of the land—to guard and escort. It brings peace to the state and offers aid to all living beings, which is why it is called “Deliverance Without Measure.” This writing is a document kept secret in Heaven and revered by the Celestial Worthies. To reveal it or treat it lightly is to fall into hell, bringing calamity upon seven generations of one’s ancestors.

The Dao says: These two chapters are numinous utterances kept secret by the emperors of the heavens and the True Kings of the Divine Empyrean. They can dispel every kind of calamity affecting rulers, nobles, and the lands under their jurisdiction; drive away ill omens; and put an end to war, famine, locust plagues, droughts, floods, epidemics, severe frost, thunder and lightning, violent storms, and all manner of strange events. They can also ensure the state’s longevity, bring prosperity to its clans, suppress evil spirits, and summon auspicious Qi.

These writings belong to the speech of the Great Brahmā—the sacred language of the heavens—not to the everyday speech of the world. They lack the rhythm and elegance of worldly literary expression, and so are mysterious and difficult to understand. Heaven carefully preserves them in the eastern chamber of the Jade-Clear Palace of the Divine Empyrean King. Only at appointed times associated with the cyclical signs Ding, Ren, and Chen are they transmitted to the lower world. A person who has attained the Dao may receive the scriptures only after bringing gold and treasure, following the traditional rites with sincere devotion, and swearing an oath before the heavens of the ten directions.

The Dao says: The workings of Heaven and Earth have their periods of decline and ending; the sun, moon, and five planets have their phases of waning and fullness. Even the most holy divine beings encounter hardship, while those whose cultivation is still shallow may fall ill or suffer injury. When such calamities occur, all concerned should fast and purify themselves together, offer incense during the six periods of each day, and recite the scriptures ten times. Then blessings and De will descend, and every kind of ill omen will be dispelled. This wondrous scripture of immeasurable scope can deliver all beings without limit.

The Dao says: Some later students of the Dao whose cultivation remains shallow and whose rank among the immortals is not yet complete may face calamity or danger. If they calm their minds, offer incense, and recite the scriptures ten times, they can pass through the ordeal. In time, in accordance with the merit accumulated through their studies and practice, they will advance in rank, remain free from demonic interference, and ascend to the realm of the immortals.

The Dao says: When Heaven and Earth are nearing the end of their cycles, the constellations fall into disorder, the sun and moon lose their light, the seasons become irregular, and Yin-Yang falls out of balance. Calamities and strange events arise within the borders of the state, epidemics spread, and people die; teachers and companions may also perish. In such circumstances, a Five-Direction Mysterious Altar—a ritual platform dedicated to the spirits of the five directions for purification rites—should be built outside the state gates, at the place where the calamity has occurred. Facing that place, lay out the true writings of the five directions. Offer incense and praise during the six periods of each day, recite the scriptures, submit memorials to Heaven, and present petitions to summon the true spirits. The heavens will then dispatch the Ten Divine Generals to arrive together, dispel calamities, avert misfortune, and protect the world.

Divine beings descend to drive away and cut off calamities, destroy demons and spirits, bring peace to the world, and send down the Five Blessings one after another. Observing purification and reciting the scripture bring great merit: above, they can dispel natural disasters and protect the emperor; below, they can ward off poison and save living beings. Both the living and the dead can benefit from this. Such blessings and merit are immeasurable, which is why it is called “Limitless Salvation for Heaven and Humanity.”

The Dao says: Whoever possesses this scripture and cultivates its merit for Heaven, Earth, the emperor, and the people, should, on days when calamities occur, resolve to establish a purification rite, burn incense, and recite the scripture ten times. The heavens will record that person’s name, and the myriad spirits will protect them. With additional dedicated practice, they may have the opportunity to become a perfected person and be enrolled among the officials of the Jade Court, the administrative offices of the Daoist heavens. The heavens record people’s merits and faults, omitting nothing, however slight; perfected persons in the heavenly realm will also recommend you. Only one who has attained the Dao can truly understand this supreme teaching.

The hidden sacred words of Great Brahma among the heavens possess limitless sounds. Composed by the Lord of the Dao.

Jade Text on Disasters and Auspicious Signs Affecting the Nation, Lords, Kings, Nobles, and Lands, for Their Dispelling and Relief at the Origin of Heaven and Earth

What follows are the heavenly names and hidden utterances of the Eight Heavens of the East, the Eight Heavens of the South, and the Eight Heavens of the West. These are sacred sound-names in the scripture, used chiefly in Daoist ritual recitation. Their written forms cannot readily be translated according to ordinary word meanings, so they are preserved in the original:

Eight Heavens of the East

景位尸陁　　邀林詗歌　　辨樊至持

韦询丕多　　钩白猛提　　韩渊竟傞

徧雾勅符　　横佐篇沙　　冀液秦屯

渟侯总河　　无阑催宴　　离云濯波

垒慈贻明　　光廓幽罗　　正行梵龙

天机玉沲

Eight Heavens of the South

星殿元基　　厯奔华边　　转掷贺门

九峩承天　　化直占殿　　允皇逸权

聊还注壶　　景运玑璇　　丙现守泽

平遥屈连　　庆常驿飞　　流岐玄仙

荡方经构　　璧建趣坚　　陈东莫攴

猛柞混田

Eight Heavens of the West

劔伊真庭　　连冈骥晶　　变素莎台

治异涓灵　　卦室锁疆　　飞翔定扃

荫末山峰　　汶时贽丁　　演亶祺陋

祠娄决征　　祖判叔徒　　吉倚文寗

频酆曲泉　　例苏云城　　元被涡祖

救慈蓬兴

The characters of the Eight Northern Heavens are the “Great Brahma hidden words”—secret sounds of the heavenly realm—used to invoke talismanic commands, communicate with the heavens, and pray for the protection of the gods. These phrases are ancient and obscure. They are mainly used in recitation and in writing talismans, and cannot be explained character by character according to ordinary meanings.

The scripture says that these heavenly words were originally kept secret within the Jade Palaces of the Nine Heavens. In time, they descended to the human world to dispel calamities and epidemics within the borders of the various states. Each character is immense, extending to a height of ten zhang. The Celestial Perfected Emperor once wrote them down as the correct sounds. If someone knows these sounds, observes purification, and recites them, the heavens will send numinous flying messengers down to inspect the person’s practice and report their merits to the heavenly realms.

At that time, the myriad gods will come to pay homage, the earth spirits will wait at the gate, and the Perfected Kings of the Four Extremes will recommend and protect the practitioner, enabling them to ascend to the realm of immortals. When their practice is complete, they will be able to travel through the Three Realms—the heavens, the human world, and the underworld—and enter the Golden Gate. These sounds can all ward off evil, avert calamity, deliver living beings, and bring good works to completion. They are the natural sounds of the Celestial Perfected.

Thus, reciting these sounds can summon the flying immortals to watch over the human world and broadcast the commands of the Lord on High far and wide. The myriad gods come to pay homage, the spirits of the Three Realms attend the heavenly procession, evil forces bow their heads, and ghosts and monsters vanish of their own accord. The recitation rings clear like jade struck against stone, carrying in every direction and bringing stillness and clarity everywhere: rivers and seas grow calm, the haze over mountains dissipates, the myriad spirits are awed into submission, and the gathered immortals are summoned. No defilement or evil beings remain between Heaven and Earth; the underworld and wisdom alike become clear and transparent, vast and mysterious.

The True Writings of the Supreme One of the Five Directions, together with the talismanic commands worn by rulers, kings, and lords to dispel calamity and avert misfortune, are appended to this chapter. They include the True Writings of the East, South, West, North, and Center, as well as the talismans worn by rulers, kings, and lords.

These talismans can bring peace to the world and remove calamity. They should be written on blue silk in the color associated with the direction that is prosperous at the time, placed in a red pouch, and worn after incense has been offered three times and one has bowed. This brings good fortune. A second copy may also be made and placed at the altar of the local earth god; this is especially effective.

“角集一音释” is the title of this section. The pronunciation of each character is marked below, along with an explanation of its meaning:

喑 is pronounced “yin” and means unable to speak; 㢌 is pronounced “a” and refers to illness; 迮 is pronounced “ze” and means to arise or spring up; 倐 is pronounced “shu” and means to move swiftly; 剡 is pronounced “hu” and means to rise swiftly.

𡜍 is written in its standard form as “嫉,” pronounced “zi,” and means “like” or “as”; 𨚧 is pronounced “jia”; 笳 is pronounced “jia”; 馘 is pronounced “guo” and means to cut off an ear; 飈 is pronounced “biao” and means a violent wind.

洼 is pronounced “wa”; 玃 is pronounced “qu”; 惒 is a variant form of “和”; 𤓁 is pronounced “yan” and means a fire vent; 摙 is pronounced “nian” and means to carry on one’s back or transport as a load; 䆫 is the same as “窗.”

璈 is pronounced “ao” and is a musical instrument; 斡 is pronounced “wan” and means to turn; 閴 is pronounced “qing,” in the falling tone, and means quiet; 孱 is pronounced “zi”; 瞢 is the same as “𥌋”; 蚖 is pronounced “yuan” and refers to a “snake healer,” a kind of lizard.

鼇 is pronounced “ao” and refers to a giant turtle; 䨧 is pronounced “yin” and describes the appearance of clouds; 馗 is pronounced “kui”; 兟 is pronounced “shen”; 滷 is pronounced “lu” and means saline land; 侖 is pronounced “lun” and means order or structure.

璺 is pronounced “wen” and refers to a crack in a jade object; 狨 is pronounced “rong”; 𦍙 is the same as “牂,” meaning a ewe; 𧕏 is pronounced “nie” and refers to a kind of harmful insect; 呇 is pronounced “qi” and is the same as “启”; 陁 is a variant form of “陀”; 沲 is the same as “沱”; 擲 is pronounced “zhi” and means to throw; 攴 is pronounced “pu” and means to tap lightly; 琤 is pronounced “zheng” and describes the sound of jade or stone striking against itself.