《元始天尊說三官寶號經》

This scripture records the scene where the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, the supreme deity of Daoism) expounded the Dharma to the assembly of immortals in the Eight Scenes Palace of the Great Canopy Heaven (Daluo Tian). At that time, an immortal named the Barefoot Great Immortal stepped forward to inquire: "When ordinary people suffer from calamities such as floods and fires, wars and diseases, or demonic disturbances, how can they be delivered?"

The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning replied: "All who attain the Dao and become immortals must pass through the evaluation and recommendation of the Three Officials (referring to the three deities who govern human fortune and misfortune: the Heaven Official, Earth Official, and Water Official). By sincerely reciting the precious names of the Three Officials, all disasters can be dispelled." Thereupon, the Celestial Worthy transmitted this sacred scripture:

"In the Mysterious Vault of the North Pole (referring to the celestial realm), there is the Purple Tenuity Imperial Court. Together with Mount Tai (the abode of the underworld) and the Clear Depths of the Water Kingdom (the aquatic realm), they maintain the order of the Three Realms and govern all things. The Three Officials judge blessings and misfortunes based on the records of good and evil. With sincere fasting and recitation of this scripture, all virtuous wishes will be fulfilled—disasters averted, sins absolved, blessings increased, and longevity extended, with immeasurable merit."

The Three Officials are:

1. The First-Rank Heaven Official of Upper Prime, Bestower of Blessings, the Great Emperor of Purple Tenuity (celebrated on the 15th day of the first lunar month, presiding over blessings)

2. The Second-Rank Earth Official of Middle Prime, Absolver of Sins, the Great Emperor of Clear Emptiness (celebrated on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, presiding over sin absolution)

3. The Third-Rank Water Official of Lower Prime, Deliverer from Calamities, the Great Official of Grotto Yin (celebrated on the 15th day of the tenth lunar month, presiding over disaster relief)

The scripture concludes by stating that all the immortals, including the Barefoot Great Immortal, rejoiced and paid homage upon hearing these sacred names. Later, this scripture spread among humanity and became an important Daoist classic for dispelling disasters and seeking blessings, particularly efficacious when recited during the "Three Primes Festivals" (the birthdates of the Three Officials).