《元始無量度人上品妙經四註》Vol. 4

This scripture primarily expounds on the merits of reciting the Yuanshi Wuliang Duren Shangpin Miaojing (The Supreme Marvelous Scripture of Infinite Salvation by the Primordial Beginning) and its cultivation methods.

The text states that those who practice virtuous deeds according to this scripture for heaven and earth, rulers, and common people—and who initiate purification rituals (zhaijiao, the Daoist practice of purifying body and mind) while burning incense and reciting the scripture tenfold during calamities—will have their names recorded by celestial immortals and receive protection from myriad deities. Xue Youqi explains that this "name recording" refers to documenting virtuous merits. If people cultivate according to the scripture's requirements, they can eliminate cosmic disasters, increase imperial blessings, and relieve human suffering. Their names will then be inscribed on the celestial registers (Huanglu Baijian, Daoist records of merits and faults), with deities safeguarding their daily lives.

Yan Dong and Xue Youqi further clarify that practitioners who truly comprehend the scripture's meaning and embody its teachings may become ministers assisting the Sacred Sovereign in the future. Here, the "Sacred Sovereign" refers to the Daoist venerated "Golden Tower's Later Sacred Sovereign of Great Peace, Li the True Lord" (an incarnation of Lord Lao, i.e., Laozi), who resides in the Purple Tenuity Palace (one of Daoism's highest celestial realms) as the supreme creator of all existence. Li Shaowei adds that to become a minister of this Sacred Sovereign, one must practice with utmost sincerity through purification rituals and scripture recitation while mastering essential cultivation techniques like the "Twenty-Four Shen" (internal deities) and "Three Eight Sceneries" (Daoist terms for bodily spirits and meditative states).

The scripture emphasizes that celestial beings meticulously record each individual's merits and faults without the slightest error. It concludes by noting that even heavenly demon kings will recommend sincere practitioners—yet true adepts must fully comprehend the profound meaning of these supreme truths.

This passage elucidates the profound mysteries of the "Great Brahma's Secret Language" from the Yuanshi Wuliang Duren Shangpin Miaojing (The Supreme Marvelous Scripture of Limitless Salvation by the Primordial Beginning). The so-called "Great Brahma's Secret Language" (referring to celestial hidden speech) encompasses four types of concealment: hidden names, hidden taboos, hidden matters, and hidden words. These are the wondrous utterances of the Great Dao originating from the Thirty-Two Heavens, difficult for ordinary humans to comprehend.

The scripture reveals that this secret language consists of 256 characters, distributed across the Thirty-Two Heavens with eight characters in each celestial realm. These characters may be inscribed upon the palaces of Mystic Metropolis (the highest heavenly realm in Daoism) and the pavilions of each heaven. Practitioners who cultivate these characters correctly can, as their spiritual attainment progresses, ride the primordial Qi to return to their corresponding heavenly realms. The specific cultivation methods are recorded in the Neiyin Yujue (Jade Instructions on Inner Sounds).

These characters are called the "Primordial Spiritual Script," formed by the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (the supreme deity in Daoism) through eight phonetic combinations. Each character measures ten feet square, with light radiating from its eight corners. They serve two primary functions: first, to dispel inauspicious forces and accomplish all endeavors; second, when inscribed throughout celestial palaces, to summon immortals from all ten directions.

Commentators explain that these annotations follow interpretations from the Neiyin Xunshi (Exegesis on Inner Sounds) transmitted by the Celestial Sovereign Huangren (a legendary Daoist immortal). Some passages have been simplified or supplemented appropriately to help practitioners grasp the scripture's true meaning more readily. The text emphasizes that ordinary people who diligently observe purification rituals (Daoist practices for purifying body and mind) will naturally comprehend these profound principles upon attaining the Dao.

This passage describes two sets of mysterious eight-character "inner sounds" (celestial secret language) from the Daoist scripture Yuanshi Wuliang Duren Shangpin Miaojing, corresponding to the celestial realms of Huangzeng Heaven and Yuwan Heaven. These characters contain special power to liberate departed souls and guide immortal transcendents.

The first set, "Dan Lou A Hui Wu He Guan Yin," is the celestial code of Huangzeng Heaven:

"Dan" depicts the boundless expanse of the celestial realm; "Lou" refers to the towering pavilion complexes beneath the Jade Capital Mountain, whose structures connect to the Mystic Metropolis (one of Daoism's highest heavens), creating a magnificent interplay between mountain and architecture; "A" represents the deity Anuo dwelling in the Mystic Metropolis, who governs the Great Brahma Qi (primordial energy) - when cosmic energy cycles converge, this deity strikes the Drum of the Pavilion Capital to summon immortals for audience with the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Daoism's supreme deity), establishing a triennial ritual; "Hui" denotes the splendid towers where emperors roam; "Wu" symbolizes the realm of Supreme Non-Being (cosmic origin) where true sages spontaneously manifest; "He" marks the celestial gate where sun and moon converge; "Guan" refers to Emperor Guanjue, the sovereign registrar of the Long Night; "Yin" signifies the sacred syllables of these eight characters - chanting them summons perfected beings riding golden wheels to shatter the underworld, with jade maidens raising banners to rescue souls, enabling seven generations of ancestors to transcend the Ninefold Netherworld and withered bones to regenerate.

The second set, "Xu Yan Ming Shou Fa Lan Pu Tan," is the celestial code of Yuwan Heaven:

"Xu Yan" designates the northwestern celestial gate of Yuwan Heaven that opens during cosmic kalpas (universal cycles) to receive Jade Perfected Transcendents back to heaven; "Ming Shou" are the gatekeepers of the Primordial Beginning's capital who open cosmic passages during celestial operations, ensuring unimpeded Qi circulation; "Fa" indicates the sacred space where the turning of the Dharma wheel accumulates merit; "Lan" is the imperial title of this heaven's sovereign.

The scripture explains these characters originate from the "Spontaneously Manifested Flying Mystic Texts" (heavenly scriptures formed naturally), each character spanning ten feet square with radiance illuminating all directions. The Celestial Worthy commanded the Celestial Sovereign Huangren (scripture-transmitting envoy) to interpret their pronunciations, combining them into the Great Brahma's Hidden Language of Huangzeng Heaven to instruct the Dao Lord (Numinous Treasure Celestial Worthy) for awakening predestined transcendents. These syllables fuse with the Five Directions' flying mystic Qi, forming the "Limitless Cavern Chapters" that effectively liberate souls and guide immortal ascension.

This passage describes celestial visions and the efficacy of scripture recitation from the Daoist Yuanshi Wuliang Duren Shangpin Miaojing (Supreme Marvelous Scripture of Limitless Salvation by the Primordial Beginning). It focuses on several celestial deities with their respective functions, along with the miraculous effects of chanting these sacred texts.

The text mentions the "Puzhe who governs the rebirth of liberated souls," holding a nine-colored banner, and the "Tanzhe" (also called Tanyi) bearing the tenfold annihilation pennant—both being perfected beings of the upper celestial realm. Regular recitation of these scriptures can set the Dharma Wheel in motion, prompt the Registrar of Destinies to record virtuous deeds, and liberate souls for rebirth. As Puzhe turns the nine-colored Dharma Wheel and Tanyi rotates the tenfold annihilation pennant, heaven and earth remain steadfast, ensuring the perpetual existence of all things.

Several celestial sound-syllables are then explained: "Jiana" is the title of the celestial Archivist who oversees the registers of life and death, administering the Golden Radiance Palace; "Ayi" refers to the divine trees in the Seven-Jeweled Grove whose canopy shelters the four directions—a sacred playground for perfected beings; "Hu" denotes the flying celestial beings who govern kalpic cycles; "He" is an honorific for the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning; "Liuyin" describes how the Celestial Worthy disseminates salvific teachings when a kalpa concludes. Constant recitation eradicates karmic obstructions, registering the practitioner's name in the Southern Palace (celestial registry).

"Huadu" is another name for the Azure Radiance Gate of the Taiji (Supreme Ultimate) Palace; "Qu" refers to Brahma deities chanting scriptures above the Taiji; "Li" is the name of the Jade Maiden of Supreme Harmony; "Xian" signifies auspicious clouds; "Pu" denotes celestial pavilions. When the Jade Maiden sings divine hymns at Huadu Gate, auspicious clouds unfurl over Pu Pavilion. "Yu" is the hidden name of a celestial sovereign who tours the eight directions on his Eight Luminosities chariot, summoning deities with the tenfold annihilation pennant.

Through these celestial tableaux, the scripture emphasizes the merits of recitation: liberating souls, dissolving karmic debts, enrolling names in immortal registers, and sustaining cosmic harmony. These sacred syllables possess numinous power—their recitation bridges heaven and humanity, invoking divine protection.

This scripture primarily elucidates the miraculous effects of reciting specific incantations known as "inner sounds," along with the cosmological principles they embody. The text mentions eight-character inner sounds such as "demons uplifted to transcend the heavens." When these mantras are chanted, celestial envoys (feitian) will proclaim them throughout the Three Realms (the realms of desire, form, and formlessness), underworld officials will come forth to receive them, enabling the salvation of seven generations of ancestors from the darkness of the underworld, elevating them to the Southern Palace (celestial immortal abodes).

The eight-character inner sound "Da Luo Da Fan San Yan Qing Yun" is explained as follows: "Da" refers to the jade gate (Tianmen) of the celestial realm, the passageway connecting the Three Realms; "Luo" describes the majestic grandeur of heavenly palaces; "Da You" signifies the great amnesty granted by the Celestial Venerable (Tianzun) when inaugurating a new cosmic cycle, emptying the hells and evil paths while suspending judgment in the Nine Darknesses (underworld); "Fan" denotes the pure qi of sacred practice that initiates the Dragon Han kalpa (cosmic cycle); "San Yan" represents the true perfected (zhenren) burning incense at the celestial gate; "Qing Yun" refers to the five-colored auspicious clouds used to welcome high-ranking deities, connecting to the Purple Abode (immortal palaces) while celestial dancers perform in the void.

The eight-character inner sound "Fei Sa Yu Du Ming Mo Shang Men" is interpreted thus: "Fei" refers to flying celestial beings who manifest radiance during the transition between cosmic kalpas; "Sa" depicts the rapid turning of the Dragon Han kalpa cycle; "Yu Du" indicates the Fengdu capital of the Nine Darknesses (hell realm), where the virtuous may have jade-perfected immortals (yuzhen) open the gates of eternal night, liberating ancestors from the eight difficulties of hell; "Ming" signifies that comprehending the true meaning of these eight characters awes demon kings and secures the Supreme Deity's protection, while celestial officials like the Rotation Lord, Director of Fates, and Registrar of Deeds will record merits in the Southern Palace, blessing nine generations of kin.

The eight-character inner sound "Wu Xing Shang Shou Hui Zhi Liu Xuan" is explained: "Wu" represents the supreme Dao, with primordial qi initiating unsurpassed methods; "Xing" denotes the celestial cords and earthly threads that maintain cosmic order, with sacred qi (fanqi) permeating the eight extremities; "Shang Shou" points to the Northern Dipper's stellar palace governing celestial mechanisms and calculating kalpas; "Hui" indicates kalpic transitions, while "Zhi" marks their trajectories. These inner sounds contain the profound patterns of cosmic operation.

This passage describes the cosmological vision of Daoism, depicting the scene of the primordial creation by the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, the supreme deity in Daoism) and the structure of the celestial realms. At the dawn of the cosmos, Yuanshi Tianzun treads upon the void while turning the Dharma Wheel, disseminating the teachings of the Dao to the ten directions. The "radiance of flowing dawn" refers to a special celestial light that illuminates even the darkest underworld realms.

The text mentions "Xuandu," a sacred celestial realm where Mount Kongfeng stands—a destination for divine immortals and the final resting place in the cycle of life and death. Those who have not attained perfection in cultivation will have their souls ascend to Mount Kongfeng after death to undergo refinement rituals (Daoist salvation ceremonies) before being delivered to the Southern Palace (the celestial abode of deities governing life).

The passage then deciphers eight celestial mantras: "A Tuo Long Luo Si Xiang Xu Yuan." Each syllable holds profound meaning:

"A" represents nine interconnected immortal mountains in the celestial realm;

"Tuo" signifies towers on these mountains that connect directly to the primordial Qi of the Jade Pure Realm (the highest of the Three Pure Ones' heavens);

"Long" points to the distant Dragon Mountain;

"Luo" is the celestial name for the sun and moon over these peaks;

"Four Symbols" denote the four celestial palaces—Eastern Florescence, Southern Pole, Western Numen, and Northern Truth—each governed by a Zhenren (Perfected Being) who oversees the registers of life and death;

"Xu" is the title of the Celestial Emperor responsible for the salvation of departed souls;

"Yuan" refers to immortal youths in the Solar Palace who bestow divine nectar upon celestial beings.

The scripture states that those who recite these celestial mantras will have their names recorded in the immortal registers, ensuring posthumous deliverance to the Southern Palace and blessings for their ancestors. It further explains that the Eastern Heaven of Nine Qi (one layer of the celestial realms) contains sixty-four secret mantras, with practitioners required to study the corresponding mantras for their attained celestial level. For instance, cultivators in the "Huangzeng Heaven" (the first celestial layer) must master its eight mantra syllables, which are inscribed on the towering structures of Xuandu to maintain cosmic order.

This scripture reveals the esoteric methods of Daoist immortality cultivation, divided into two main sections.

The first section details a practice involving the inscription of specific talismanic characters (Fulu). On the tenth day of each lunar month, one should write the first three characters of "Huangzeng Tian" (one of Daoism's Thirty-Six Heavens) with cinnabar, then ingest them while facing north and reciting incantations. Practiced consistently for one hundred days, this summons ten thousand spirits to pay homage. On the fifteenth and thirtieth days, writing the fourth and fifth characters to ingest while facing east, when maintained for twenty-four years, enables one to share longevity with immortals, with the soul ascending after death to the celestial platforms where imperial lords roam. During waxing, waning and full moon phases, writing the sixth through eighth characters to ingest facing the moon for eight years makes the body radiate light with golden countenance, allowing posthumous ascension to the sun-moon celestial abodes, ultimately achieving immortality. Successful practitioners have their names recorded in Huangzeng Tian, eternally freed from samsara.

The second section deciphers two eight-character mantras. "Nán yàn dòng fú yù móu shēn shēn" constitutes a secret formula from Yangtian (the Celestial Realm of Yang): The southern region contains a Flowing Fire Courtyard spanning seventy-thousand li, its flames illuminating all directions. "Dongfu" refers to the fiery Qi (vital energy) of Dongyang Palace, while "yumou" denotes the immortal ointment refined from flowing fire that makes practitioners emit jade radiance. Here, the Southern Pole Perfected Being (Nanji Zhenren) uses fiery ointment to cleanse worldly dust from new initiates, preparing them to join the immortal host. "Shenshen" describes the multitude of accomplished adepts.

"Fàn xíng luò kōng jiǔ líng tuī qián" represents the mantra of Gonghua Tian (another heavenly realm): "Fanxing" was the title of Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun) during the Dragon Han kalpa, later changed to "Nameless" during the Red Bright kalpa. This passage primarily illustrates how celestial deities adopt different appellations across cosmic cycles.

This scripture depicts the sacred beings and celestial realms in Daoist cosmology, consisting of two main sections:

The first part describes the creation process by the Primordial Elder (an emanation of the highest Daoist deity Yuanshi Tianzun). He manifests his form from pure Brahma Qi (primordial vital energy), transforming according to cosmic kalpas (the cyclical periods of the universe in Daoism). Unlike ordinary beings born through conception, he spontaneously emerges from emptiness. The Nine Numinous Ones refer to nine high-ranking perfected beings (those who have attained the Dao) residing in the Southern Upper Palace, governing the Nine Netherworlds (the Daoist underworld) where they record the merits and karmic deeds of departed souls. In the celestial realm stands the Scattered Flowers Terrace, managed by four perfected beings from the Dipper Division (the Big Dipper deities), who issue life-extending talismans based on the virtuous deeds of the deceased to assist their transcendence from the underworld.

The latter section portrays the celestial landscape called "Zeluo Potala Green Veil Great Chiliocosm." "Ze" names the celestial mountains containing dragon caves and jade chambers (divine abodes). "Luo" is the secret name of Morning Dao Lord (a high-ranking celestial being), who survives cosmic kalpas without perishing. "Po" is the hidden title of Flying Celestial Perfected Beings, while "tala" refers to the Jade Terrace paradise south of Ze Mountain. "Green Veil" is the title of Lunar Palace Lady Luoying, dressed in green robes and governing the movements of sun and moon. The text introduces the concept of "great chiliocosm": a thousand small worlds form a minor chiliocosm, a thousand minor chiliocosms make a medium chiliocosm, and a thousand medium chiliocosms constitute the great chiliocosm. Devout scripture reciters may ride flying chariots through these sacred realms.

The final eight celestial syllables describe cosmic cycles: during the Extended Peace kalpa (cosmic dormancy), celestial scriptures remain hidden, only to reappear in radiant splendor during the Dragon Han kalpa (cosmic renewal). Those who encounter the true Dao, regardless of gender, may attain longevity of thirty-six thousand years. This passage reveals Daoism's grand vision of space-time and its ideal of liberation through spiritual practice.

This scripture describes key Daoist cosmological concepts of kalpic cycles, demonic trials, and the path to authentic cultivation. When heaven and earth reach the thousand-year extreme cycle, they undergo a great kalpa (劫运), during which the nine primordial qi (九种元气) manifest as fierce beasts to punish the wicked. These demonic entities called the "Nine Uglies" (九丑) are commanded by the Supreme Northern Emperor (北帝上真), the deity governing life and death, who coordinates with the Three Officials (三官, rulers of heaven, earth, and water realms) to execute cosmic justice. After 810,000 kalpic repetitions, the Nine Uglies are enfeoffed as "Nine Capital Emissaries" (九都使者).

The text reveals that the Demon King of Divine Empyrean (神霄王), leader of demonic forces, frequently tests cultivators through deceptive songs. Those with unwavering resolve are recommended for ascension to the Celestial Realm of Majestic Reeds (皇笳天), while evildoers have their transgressions recorded by the Big Dipper Deity (北斗星君) before their souls are cast into the Ninefold Nether Hell (九幽地狱) by demonic forces. Within the Majestic Reeds Heaven stands Golden Flower Mountain (金华山), where the Five Thearchs' (五帝) palaces stand amid five-colored auspicious clouds, perpetually bathed in solar and lunar radiance. Successful cultivators must receive the sacred token from the Great Unity Deity (太一神君) at this location to subdue demonic kings, pass their trials, and obtain the right to traverse all directions in luminous chariots.

The scripture elaborates on the nine qi constituting existence: the Primordial Qi (始气) generates Crimson Cavern (赤洞), White Seal (白章), and Pure Vastness (清浩); the Original Qi (元气) produces Verdant Brilliance (绿昺), Yellow Radiance (黄景), and Azure Chaos (苍混); while the Mysterious Qi (玄气) gives birth to Purple Fusion (紫融), Jade Flames (碧炎), and Black Transformation (黑演). The concluding phrase "Cloudborne Nine Capitals' Self-Soaring Flight" (云上九都飞生自骞) constitutes an esoteric mantra from the Heaven of Luminous Halls (堂曜天), depicting the Celestial Flying Kings scattering sacred incense upon the nine-tiered platform of Jade Capital Mountain (玉京山) during the inauguration of the Dragon Han Kalpa (龙汉劫运), the cosmic cycle's commencement.

This scripture describes Daoist cultivation methods for communicating with celestial deities through scripture recitation and visualization, ultimately achieving ascension to the immortal realms.

Amidst resplendent cloudscapes, one may perceive the Flying Celestial Perfected Beings upon a high platform, where the Supreme Jade Lord (a high-ranking immortal official) resides. Three times daily, they wave the Tenfold Transcendence Banner—each full rotation prompting the Celestial Emperors of all heavens to bow three times toward the Mystic Platform while circumambulating it and chanting the Dongzhang scripture. "Feisheng" (Flying Life) is the name of the southern deity governing rebirth. Should a practitioner recite the Dongzhang scripture with their voice reaching the celestial palaces, all heavens will rejoice, and the Feisheng deity will open for them the path to immortality, bestowing the qi of longevity.

Through refining the five soul aspects (wuhun) of the internal organs, once this cultivation is complete, the practitioner may visualize the Eight Radiances (eight vital energy gateways within the body). "Qian" refers to the Qianlin (the sacred grove of the immortal realm). If the practitioner can elevate their entire body to the nine-layered Mystic Platform and wander beneath the Qianlin while wearing celestial scriptures and orally reciting the Dongzhang, persisting for twenty-four years will grant them audience at the Mystic Metropolis Palace (one of Daoism's supreme paradises).

The text then deciphers several secret celestial syllables: "Na" is the inner designation of the Heavenly Secretariat official governing the qi of the four seasons; "Yu" names the Celestial Pivot's empty wheel; "Yufu" is the name of the Dipper's numinous youth who rotates the Yu wheel; "Moluo" is the true name of the celestial demon king. Mastering the qi of the four seasons and the mysteries of the ten heavenly rotations allows entry through the Dharma Wheel Gate, where one may ride the Eight Radiances chariot to ascend to the Jade Clarity heaven.

The final eight syllables belong to the inner sounds of the Gongqing Heaven: "Hong" names the celestial overseer deity; "Chi" designates the Dragon Abyss where dragons coil; "Wujing" is the true name of the Flying Celestial King who oversees the registers of life and death; "Lanzi" names the gate of the Three Realms. Knowing these names prompts the Celestial King to open the treasury of eternal night, delivering souls from the Ninefold Darkness.

This scripture elucidates the esoteric principles of Daoist cultivation related to the Three Realms (Desire Realm, Form Realm, and Formless Realm) and celestial domains. It mentions the celestial maiden "Mysterious Harmony Jade Maiden" (Xuánhé Yùnǚ) named Yùnróng. If a practitioner can transcend the gates of the Three Realms, Yùnróng will guide their physical form with vermilion spiritual Qi and nourish their Shen (spirit) with the sweet dew of Supreme Harmony, elevating them to the Hall of Blessed Virtue, forever beyond the cycles of kalpic destruction.

The eight characters "Fù Lǎng Kuò Yì Shén Yīng Zì Gōng" constitute profound celestial mantras. "Fù Lǎng" refers to the alternate name of the Mysterious Platform in the Jade Capital, where the Western Numinous Perfected Beings (Xīlíng Zhēnrén) often recite scriptures and cultivate. "Kuò Yì" is the title of a divine lord born simultaneously with the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuánshǐ Tiānzūn), who can open the gates of life and death to grant practitioners rebirth. "Shén Yīng" denotes the numinous youth of the Purple Tenuity Palace, responsible for the salvation of the deceased. Receiving his recitation of immeasurable scriptural chapters enables one to obtain natural spiritual Qi in the Triple Refinement Chamber (Sān Liàn Zhī Fáng) and attain longevity.

The eight characters "Dāo Lì Chán Yóu Pó Ní Jiù Tōng" are secret mantras of the southern celestial realm. "Dāo Lì" names the Southern Limitless World, while "Chán" is its alternate designation. Therein lie the Palace of Cavernous Yang (Dòngyáng Gōng) and the Courtyard of Flowing Fire, where souls undergo purification through fiery refinement before ascending to the Hall of Blessed Virtue. "Yóu" is the title of the Southern Lord of Life-Nurturing, "Pó Ní" the numinous youth of the Fire Refinement Pool, and "Jiù Tōng" a demonic deity of the Dāo Lì World who often obstructs the path of cultivation. Knowing the name of the Lord of Life-Nurturing enables transcendence to the Palace of Cavernous Yang, where refinement in the Fire Pool leads to rebirth in the Land of Blessed Virtue. Reciting these eight sacred syllables summons the protection of Limitless Numinous Officials, ensuring ascent within three years to the Heaven of Three Qi via a chariot of crimson clouds.

The eight characters "Wǎn Sǒu Dí Sè Tài Miǎo Zhī Táng" are secret mantras of the Huangya Heaven. "Wǎn Sǒu" refers to the palaces of Huangya Heaven, sacred spaces where practitioners purify body and mind to elevate their spiritual state. These celestial mantras embody powerful cultivation methods that assist practitioners in transcending samsara and attaining longevity.

This scripture describes two sets of eight-character secret incantations and their sacred meanings, primarily concerning the celestial structure and divine hierarchy within the Daoist cosmological view.

The first set, "Liu Luo Fan Meng Jing Wei Xiao Yu," constitutes the esoteric incantation of the Polar Wind Heaven (one of Daoism's Thirty-Six Heavens). Each character represents a high-ranking celestial being: "Liu" is the inner name of the Heaven Emperor, who resides above the Purple Firmament and patrols the Jade Capital's immortal mountains; "Luo" refers to the Moon Palace fairy maidens who oversee celestial banquets; "Fan" is the title of the Flying Heaven Immortal (Feitian Zhenren), guardian of the Nine Heavens' gates; "Meng" represents the Primordial Heavenly Deity (Yuanshi Tianshen) who stabilizes Polar Wind Heaven's foundation; "Jing" signifies the Four Extremes' Supreme True Lord Jinghuang; while "Wei" denotes the Luxuriant Splendor Immortal of the Scenic Firmament. These deities collectively govern the Jade Capital Terrace, riding tri-colored clouds to deliver virtuous souls during the Long Night. "Xiao" refers to the White Purity Primordial Lord's (Baisu Yuanjun) palace, and "Yu" indicates the celestial guest reception hall. Practitioners who chant this eight-character mantra may ascend to the Scenic Yellow Immortal Terrace upon nine-colored clouds.

The second set, "Yi Miao Wu Ji Wan Shou Shao Du," belongs to the Filial Radiance Heaven's esoteric incantation. "Yi Miao" is the honorific title of Filial Radiance Heaven's emperor, while "Wu" and "Ji" represent the supreme state of formless tranquility—this Heaven Emperor has endured from the Dragon Han Kalpa (primordial eon) to the current Crimson Bright Kalpa (Chiming Jie), dwelling in the sacred realm of absolute stillness. "Wan Shou" is the inner appellation of the Supreme Dao Lord (Taishang Daojun), who rides the Eight Scenes Jade Chariot drawn by three-element flying clouds, expounding the mysteries of Primordial Dao (Yuanshi Dadao) to liberate beings; "Shao Du" refers to the Sun Palace's divine youth who disseminates solar essence radiance.

The scripture particularly emphasizes how these eight-character incantations encapsulate celestial lords' names and authorities. Practitioners who comprehend and chant these heavenly sounds may summon Flying Heaven Immortals (Feitian Zhenjun) arriving on luminous cloud chariots, ascending to the Hall of Transformational Birth (Huasheng Tang)—Daoism's sacred rebirth realm. The Vast Hall of Infinite Subtlety (Tai Miao Zhi Tang) is described as a spontaneously manifesting cosmic space capable of delivering countless beings. Within it, the "transformation of emptiness" (Kongdong Zhi Hua) denotes the formless creative power of the Dao, while the "chapter of naturalness" (Ziran Zhi Zhang) represents the inherent principles of celestial operation.

This passage elucidates the power and function of eight mystical syllables (bazi zhi yin) in Daoist practice. Each syllable corresponds to different celestial deities and realms in the heavenly spheres. Practitioners who comprehend and recite these syllables can attain extraordinary merit.

The eight syllables "A Lan Yu Zhu Hua Mo Yan You" represent secret celestial phonemes from the innermost heavens. "A Lan" is the taboo name of the Celestial Emperor (Tianshi), who rides the Radiance Mist Chariot and recites scriptures from the nine-tiered jade tower to subdue demon kings. "Yu" is the hidden name of the Demon King, "Zhu" symbolizes desire—indicating the Demon King's abode above the realm of desire. "Hua" signifies the luminous splendor of the form realm, "Mo" describes the ethereal nature of the desire realm, "Yan" denotes the gathering place of ghosts, while "You" represents the prison of spirits. When celestial kings recite immeasurable scriptures from their cloud towers, heavenly demons manifest submission and ghosts prostrate in reverence. Devotees can bring peace to nine generations of ancestors, while adepts can revive withered bones.

The second set "Jiu Kai Zi Bian A Na Pin Shou" originates from another celestial domain. "Jiu Kai" symbolizes the primordial division of chaos into nine parts during the cosmic inception, forming the Yin-Yang and all phenomena. "A" is the ancient name of the Heavenly Sovereign, who ascends Dragon Mountain in a nine-colored dragon chariot. "Na" is the secret name of flying celestial beings who traverse the Three Realms to deliver virtuous souls. Those who know these true syllables may be received by celestial kings into the ranks of flying immortals, restoring youthful countenance to withered bones.

The third set "Wu Liang Fu Gai Fu Luo He Shen" contains "Wu Liang"—the supreme deity who commands all celestial beings. "Fu" is the inner designation of Rebirth Zhenren who records karmic deeds in the underworld. "Gai" refers to the mysterious Hall of Blessings, while "Fu" represents souls in the netherworld awakened by Zhenren. These syllables embody the supreme power to liberate souls and transform life and death.

This scripture expounds the Daoist practice of "salvation" (deliverance and redemption) and several celestial secret sounds (esoteric heavenly languages). "Deliverance" refers to ascending to blessed heavenly realms by aligning with the movements of heaven and earth, while "Luo" denotes the Great Luo Heaven (Daluo Tian, the highest celestial realm in Daoism), where the reborn are gathered, their names registered in the heavenly palaces, and their death records erased from the underworld's Three Officials (Heavenly, Earthly, and Water Officials). "Union with the divine" (Heshen) means that if practitioners master the eight celestial sounds, they can resonate with the heavenly deities (such as the Grand Minister of Daluo Tian) and attain the qualification for salvation and rebirth.

The text then explains the meanings of several celestial secret sounds: "Jade Birth" (Yudan) refers to the name of the Jade Capital in the Tanshi Heaven; "Long Mulberry" (Changsang) denotes the celestial mulberry grove, where leaves are inscribed with purple-scripted jade characters of the Great Cavern Scripture (Dadong Zhenjing, a sacred text), beneath which grows the divine Fusang Tree—when the wind blows through it, heavenly harmonies arise. "Cypress Void" (Bokong) describes the profound musical patterns formed by this divine wind, while "Transcendent Ferry" (Duxian) refers to celestial immortals who, at dawn, gather the essences of heaven and earth upon jade platforms, assess the merits and faults of cultivators, and deliver souls from the Ninefold Netherworld.

Further interpretations of two sets of eight celestial sounds follow: "Grasping Nothingness" (Juewu) represents the flying deities of the Dragon Han Kalpa (a cosmic cycle in Daoist cosmology), who appeared at the dawn of creation; "Nine Suns" (Jiuri) signifies the King of Xiao Heaven traversing the nine celestial layers in his jeweled chariot, guiding practitioners at the end of a cosmic cycle. "Earth Mother" (Kunmu) symbolizes the maternal power of the earth embracing all things, while "Supreme Mystery" (Shangxuan) points to the ultimate, ineffable Dao. These celestial sounds contain profound mysteries that guide practitioners beyond life and death, toward ascension to the heavenly realms.

This passage describes the functions of several key Daoist deities and their relationship with spiritual practitioners.

The Dark Capital Matriarch (Yindu Hou) is the mother of the Nine Numinous Ones (jiuling), presiding over the abyss of the Fusang Tanggu in the Eastern Sea. She governs the pivotal mechanism of the earth, facilitating the circulation of primordial Qi (Yuanqi). When the celestial and terrestrial energies converge, the tides rise and fall periodically. The Eastern Sea, where all waters gather, is administered by the Water Deity who resides on Mount Kunlun. This deity stabilizes the oceans and blocks the influence of the Eastern Well constellation (Dongjing), ensuring the proper rotation of the earth.

During calamities, the Earth Mother (Kunmu) manifests above the Eastern River, summoning the Avian Matriarch (Niaomu), the deity of water cycles, to escort practitioners to Mount Kunlun in her phoenix chariot. The Earth Mother also reports cyclical catastrophes to the Celestial Emperor (Tiandi) and registers practitioners' names in the celestial records.

The eight-character celestial code "陁罗育邈眇炁合云" is then deciphered: "陁" represents the Celestial Emperor's esoteric name, "罗" symbolizes the new moon, "育" refers to the Divine King of Miaocheng Heaven who commands flying celestials from all directions. "邈" denotes the celestial Feather Forest Army's supervising deity who oversees the Three Realms (sanjie) and records human life spans. Upon attaining the Dao, practitioners receive talismanic registers (fulu) from the Feather Forest Army and ascend on cloud-borne Qi to join the celestial immortals.

Finally, the eight-syllable celestial chant "飞天大丑总监上天" is explained: The Flying Celestial Kings often recite scriptures amidst clouds, condensing the Feixuan Qi into the Great Cavern Scripture (Dadong Jing). Through scripture recitation, they harmonize natural energies and guide practitioners. Among them, the Great Ugly Star Lord (Dachou Xingjun) and two other important deities supervise the celestial realms.

This scripture describes the duties of the Three Realms Demon Kings and how practitioners can attain transcendence through specific methods. The Three Realms Demon Kings (referring to deities governing the celestial, terrestrial, and aquatic realms) are commanded by the Great Ugly Academician (a high-ranking immortal official). If practitioners master certain sacred incantations, they will receive the Demon Kings' protection and ascend to the Three Pure Heavens (the highest realm in Daoism).

The Flying Heaven Commander (a senior celestial deity) oversees the regulation of cosmic energies (the Qi of Eight Convergences) and supervises affairs of the underworld, assisting the salvation of souls trapped in the Nine Nether Hells. Practitioners who comprehend the celestial secret language will be recorded in the immortal registers and ascend to the heavenly realms.

The text then explains the meaning of two sets of Eight-Word Celestial Sounds (heavenly mantras):

The first set, "Sha Tuo Jie Liang Long Han Ying Xian", is the secret mantra of the Changrong Heaven (a celestial realm):

• "Sha" refers to the Shalan Palace in the heavens, located in the Violet Void beyond the Jade Clarity Heaven.
• "Tuo" signifies Tuo Hill, a transitional dwelling place for countless newly enlightened beings.
• "Jie Liang" denotes the alternation of cosmic cycles, where merits determine ascension to the Vermilion Mansion (a blessed realm).
• "Long Han" represents the primordial cosmic era when the Dao was in its purest form.
• "Ying" refers to the celestial deity who delivered souls during the Long Han era.
• "Xian" indicates the Southern Palace Immortal Youth, who assists practitioners in purifying their forms.

The second set, "Bi Luo Fu Li Kong Ge Bao Xuan", is the secret mantra of the Yulong Heaven (another celestial realm):

• "Bi" signifies the jade-green radiance of the Yulong Heaven.
• "Luo" refers to the celestial deity who roams the heavens in a jade-green chariot.
• "Fu Li" is the title of a Heavenly King.
• "Kong Ge" represents the celestial hymns sung by the Heavenly Attendants (immortal officials).
• Practitioners who master these eight-word mantras will ascend to the Southern Palace Immortal Realm, attaining eternal life.

The scripture concludes by noting that although these explanations may seem different from the opening section, they all represent various pathways to cultivation and enlightenment.

This scripture expounds the profound mysteries of the "Inner Sounds" (neiyin), the celestial language of the heavenly realms. It reveals that the eight characters "E Yi Wu Pin Dong Miao Zi Zhen" constitute the Inner Sounds of Fandu Heaven (one of the celestial realms). "E Yi" actually represents the secret name of a Celestial King who, during the Longhan Kalpa (a cosmic cycle), had already transcended all karmic bonds, risen beyond the Three Realms, ascended to the Great Void, obtained the Register of Nine Immortals, and was enfeoffed by the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, the supreme Daoist deity) as the King of Fandu Heaven.

"Wu" refers to the Great Non-Being Perfected Being (Taiwu Zhenren), a high-ranking immortal who receives the celestial king's talismanic registers to deliver souls from the long night of darkness. "Pin" serves as the standard for measuring the sins and merits of departed souls. "Dong" signifies penetrating insight into past-life karma. "Miao" points to the Hall of Marvelous Transformation (Miaohua Zhitang), the sacred space where souls are delivered. When a soul's karmic bonds from past lives are resolved, it may enter this hall. "Zi" means "to unite with," while "Zhen" denotes the innate nature of celestial purity. The Great Non-Being Perfected Being delivers souls from the Nine Nether Regions (hell), helping them understand their predestined fate, eliminate evil karmic ties, and ultimately merge with the flying celestial spirits.

The subsequent eight characters "Yuan Fan Hui Mo You Ji Du Ren" form the Inner Sounds of Jiayi Heaven (another celestial realm). "Yuan Fan" refers to the Great Brahma Qi (Da Fan Zhi Qi) of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning—pure, clear, and lofty. "Hui Mo" describes its profound boundlessness, seemingly existent yet non-existent. "You Ji" indicates deep tranquility containing True Essence (Zhenjing, primordial vital energy) that secretly delivers celestial beings and humans.

The Celestial Sovereign Huangren (a divine transmitter of teachings) explains that all heavenly Inner Sounds are naturally formed Jade Characters (sacred script) condensed from Flying Mysterious Qi (Fei Xuan Zhi Qi). These contain the sounds of the Five Directions, originating above the Primordial Beginning and existing within the void. These profoundly obscure characters were specially interpreted by command of the Celestial Worthy. Though the Mysterious Gate's precepts are strict, none dare disobey this divine decree. When interpreting these characters, one's spirit directly reaches the celestial realms, contemplating their meaning with utmost care regardless of subtlety or simplicity. When these truths of the Dao are illuminated, all heavens rejoice. Those who cherish them may attain the Dao and achieve perfection, while cultivators may ascend as immortals. The power of these characters is vast beyond description. Finally, it's revealed these are the natural Jade Characters of the Northern Five Qi Mysterious Heaven—all constituting the secret language of the Great Brahma Heaven, containing immeasurable mysterious sounds.

This scripture primarily expounds on the origin and characteristics of the "Great Brahma's Hidden Words" — mystical scripts contained within the Thirty-Two Heavens (celestial realms in Daoist cosmology). These eight-character talismanic writings, known as the "Inner Sounds of All Heavens," are naturally formed true texts originating from the realm of primordial emptiness where the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, the supreme deity in Daoism) resides. These sacred scripts possess the power to create heaven and earth, corresponding to cosmic kalpa cycles.

The Celestial Sovereign of Primordial Truth (Tianzhen Huangren, an ancient immortal of supreme attainment) once partially comprehended the meaning of these characters. The original text records that each character measures one zhang (about 3.3 meters) square. During the Dragon Han Kalpa (one of Daoism's cosmic cycles), the Celestial Sovereign transcribed and standardized these scripts as the celestial pronunciation system. These octagonal characters radiate brilliant light illuminating all directions. The Celestial Worthy specifically commissioned the Celestial Sovereign to compile annotations and transmit them to Daoist Lords (high-ranking divine beings) for instructing all celestial beings. Only cultivators whose names are registered in the immortal records would be examined and certified by the Celestial Sovereign.

The scripture further describes a miraculous scene: While the Celestial Worthy was expounding the Dao in the Red Brilliance World (an ideal Daoist realm), extraordinary celestial phenomena suddenly appeared — three consecutive days of darkened skies. When the Five Directional Thearchs (Wulao) inquired about the reason, the Celestial Worthy explained this signaled the manifestation of heavenly auspicious signs. Suddenly, one-zhang-square spirit writings appeared in the sky, their octagonal forms radiating such dazzling brilliance that observers couldn't gaze directly at them. The Celestial Worthy revealed to the assembly that these "Eightfold Spirit Writings" have no fixed form, and their profundity transcends verbal expression.

This passage explains the origin and efficacy of the "Great Brahma Hidden Language" from the Yuanshi Wuliang Duren Shangpin Miaojing (Supreme Scripture of Infinite Salvation), a sacred esoteric mantra in Daoist tradition.

The Celestial Sovereign Huangren (a legendary ancient immortal in Daoism), following the command of the Heavenly Worthy of Primordial Beginning, combined the eight-character true mantras from each of the thirty-two celestial heavens with the flying mystical Qi (vital energy) of the five directions to create this divine language that bridges heaven and humanity. This immortal’s origins are shrouded in mystery—he stood nine feet tall, covered in black hair over a foot long. The Yellow Emperor once sought his teachings on Mount Emei, constructing a jade house with a golden throne, burning incense, and raising banners to receive the "Five Sprouts and Three-Oneness" cultivation method.

The scripture emphasizes that if one observes fasting (a purification ritual before Daoist practice) and recites these true mantras, the thirty-two celestial emperors will dispatch flying divine kings to descend and examine the practitioner, recording their merits to report to the heavens. Manifestations include earth deities guarding the household and demon kings recommending the practitioner for immortal ascension. Upon achieving perfection in cultivation, one may ride a cloud chariot to the golden gates of the Nine Palaces of Grand Radiance—a celestial realm where miraculous qianlin trees and golden-winged birds reside, their feathers woven into immortal robes.

The "Great Brahma Hidden Language" possesses all-encompassing divine power: it can exorcize evil, avert disasters, liberate the deceased, and fulfill all creation. Commentaries by Eastern Jin Daoists and Tang Dynasty recluses note that these are the purest sounds of the Dao’s natural order, revealing the profound mysteries of creation through secret syllables. Practitioners who master them will be inscribed in the registers of immortals, attaining the rank of true transcendents.

(Note: "Five Sprouts" refers to the essence of the Five Phases, while "Three-Oneness" signifies the union of the upper, middle, and lower Dantian [energy centers]—both key concepts in Neidan [internal alchemy] practice.)

This passage describes the miraculous power of the Yuanshi Wuliang Duren Shangpin Miaojing (The Supreme Marvelous Scripture of Limitless Salvation by the Primordial). The "limitless sounds" mentioned refer to the sacred language of this scripture, capable of dispelling all evil influences, eliminating calamities, and helping sentient beings transcend the cycle of birth and death to attain the realm of celestial beings (those who have achieved Dao cultivation). Thus it is called the "Celestial True Spiritual Text," formed naturally from jade characters (sacred Daoist script) that emit an intrinsic resonance.

When people recite this scripture, wondrous effects manifest: celestial deities descend to observe, the Supreme God (highest Daoist deity) responds from afar, and myriad divine beings come to pay homage. The demon kings of the Three Realms (Desire Realm, Form Realm, and Formless Realm) stand reverently, all malevolent forces bow their heads, and ghosts and spirits naturally dissipate.

The scripture depicts the scene during recitation: the celestial jade characters produce exquisite sounds like tinkling jade, purifying and sanctifying the ten directions. This divine resonance calms rivers and seas, while mountains swallow clouds (symbolizing universal harmony). All spiritual beings are awestruck, and immortal sages gather in multitudes.

At this moment, no turbid Qi exists between heaven and earth, and no evil disturbs the land. Practitioners' wisdom penetrates profound mysteries (minghui refers to deep spiritual insight), merging with celestial radiance to achieve a state of luminous clarity. This realm is profoundly mysterious (xuanxuan), beyond ordinary comprehension.

The passage concludes by explaining "penetrating clarity through profound wisdom" (minghui dongqing): "Ming" signifies unfathomable depth, "hui" represents illuminating wisdom that pierces emptiness; "dong" denotes unobstructed penetration, "qing" signifies pristine purity. "Great capacity" (daliang) refers to the vast, impartial compassion that universally liberates beings. "Xuanxuan" emphasizes the immeasurably profound merit of this scripture.

This scripture primarily expounds on the origins and cultivation methods of the Yuanshi Wuliang Duren Shangpin Miaojing (Supreme Marvelous Scripture of Infinite Salvation by the Primordial Beginning). The text states that the primordial state of the cosmos was a boundless, pure "void" (zhenkong) containing subtle and profound principles capable of giving birth to true sages. This realm transcends distinctions of existence and non-existence, remaining eternally unchanging and profoundly ineffable.

The Supreme Lord of the Dao (Taishang Daojun, a high-ranking Daoist deity) received this scripture from the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun) and transmitted it to the human realm. The scripture is divided into three prefaces (front, middle, and rear) along with two main chapters. The "Great Brahma Hidden Words" (Dafan Yinyu, esoteric cultivation formulas) do not belong to these two chapters. The middle preface emphasizes that only after reciting the scripture ten thousand times can one attain the Dao, indicating the profound depth of these hidden teachings.

Practitioners who sincerely recite this scripture and carry its sacred texts (lingwen) will resonate with the celestial realms. When their virtuous merit (gongde) reaches completion, they may even ascend to become celestial officials in the heavens. The scripture underscores that through persistent study and cultivation, one can achieve the true Dao, transcend ordinary existence, and attain the boundless capacity to create heaven and earth. Those who comprehend the true meaning of the "jade characters" (yuzi, sacred script) will eventually achieve physical ascension.

Finally, practitioners are reminded to approach the text with reverence and steadfast sincerity. When merit is perfected, one will naturally comprehend the profound mysteries, bringing blessings to both oneself and ancestors. Historical records like the Xuanmen Lingyan Ji (Accounts of Daoist Miracles) document numerous instances of spiritual efficacy through reciting this scripture—sincere cultivators should therefore practice diligently.

Pronunciation notes clarify uncommon characters: "Fuli tu" is pronounced "Du"; "miaoxing" (wondrous practice) reads "xing" as "yu meng qie"; "wuyang" (boundless) pronounces "yang" as "yang"; "䕃" reads as "yu jin qie"; and "瘖" (mute) is pronounced "yin."

This passage primarily consists of Daoist cultivation terminology with specialized pronunciations, addressing states of spiritual attainment and bodily transformations. It mentions terms like "corpse liberation" (shijie, referring to the method of achieving immortality through feigned death and physical renewal), "three blossoms" (sanhua, denoting the three treasures of Jing, Qi, and Shen), "departure expedient" (libian, indicating skillful means to transcend mundanity), and "brahmacarya" (fanxing, pure spiritual practice).

The text also annotates unusual character pronunciations, such as "bo" read as "bowo qie," "e" pronounced as "a," and "gu" read as "gu." Most of these characters relate to physical changes and state descriptions during cultivation. For instance, "bobo" has two readings ("fu" and "pei") likely corresponding to different cultivation states; "muddy mundanity" (nifan) refers to the ordinary physical form, while "beheading" (guo) signifies severing afflictions.

References to "supreme observation" (zongjian) and "lower observation" (xiaguan) denote specific visualization methods in practice. The character "hei" read as "mo" likely indicates a silent recitation technique. Overall, this scripture transmits crucial pronunciation guidelines for cultivation terminology and essential practice points, serving as a manual for proper articulation during spiritual exercises.