《太上元始天尊說金光明經》

This scripture records the story of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, the supreme deity in Daoism) expounding the Sutra of Golden Light to relieve the suffering of sentient beings. Observing the multitudes afflicted by various miseries—some struck by plagues, others with dimmed vision seeing as if blind—the Celestial Worthy recognized these as consequences of disrespect toward the "Three Treasures" (Dao, scriptures, and masters) or entanglement in vengeful curses.

Moved by compassion, the Celestial Worthy opened the gate of salvation, instructing devotees to purify themselves through ritual bathing, establish a sacred altar (daochang), and recite this scripture to dispel calamities. The text introduces twelve Radiant Celestial Youths (such as Golden Light, Sunlight, and Moonlight) who possess the power to heal eye ailments and avert disasters. Sincere faith in this scripture promises blessings including recovery from illness, restored vision, absolution of past transgressions, and protection by immortals.

A stern warning follows: those who disparage this scripture will not only invite personal misfortune but also bring calamity upon seven generations of ancestors. In conclusion, all celestial beings, immortals, and deities across the Three Realms rejoice upon hearing this scripture, vowing to uphold its teachings.

(Context: This is a Daoist scripture for dispelling misfortunes, emphasizing rituals like recitation and altar-building, aided by the twelve Youths' divine power to cure eye diseases and resolve karmic obstacles. It reflects the Daoist ideal of "delivering beings through scriptures.")