《靈寶無量度人上經大法》Vol. 69

Treatise on Talismans for Refining and Deliverance: The Purple Court Proclamation for Donning Yellow and Receiving the Dao

True Proclamation of the Purple Court for Donning Yellow and Receiving the Dao

The supreme method of pledging an oath with the perfected ones is stored within a jade casket. This is the True Proclamation of the Purple Court, through which the Lingbao tradition transmits the Dao’s teachings.

With due reverence, we proclaim: The divine cloud-seal script of the Divine Empyrean descends from Heaven, and the numinous books in jade cases are issued from the Vermilion Palace. Those who put these ritual books into practice can ascend beyond the ranks of ordinary beings and enter the ranks of the perfected; those who wear them can attain the ranks of immortals. Moreover, scriptures handed down by one’s ancestors can deliver the spirits of three generations of ancestors from darkness, while the precious proclamations of the Nine Heavens can free spirits from the suffering of netherworld prisons. All spirits who are to return and fulfill their destiny rely on these methods for deliverance.

After receiving and upholding this method, a person may become a subject of the Great Dao, dwell forever in the Hall of Blessings, and attain the fruit of Wuwei (non-action). This method is now being transmitted at the Yellow Altar, where rites of transmission are performed. The recipient should follow it forever. Upon receiving the talismanic mandate, the recipient must put it into practice and observe all the laws and commands of the mysterious tradition.

The Dao is profound, hidden, and nameless; its movements of ascent and descent and its transformations are beyond measure. Qi (vital energy) gathers and takes form, and through it the cycles of life and death unfold. Though principle and circumstance are inherently free of error, karmic ties still leave their traces. Now the deceased, so-and-so, has entered the netherworld; their hun and po souls have dispersed into the unseen. They may have committed wrongs in life, and may also have accumulated offenses in past lives. Thus, Luofeng, the realm of the dead, administers investigation and judgment, while the Nine Depths hold authority over confinement and punishment. Thinking of the suffering endured by the deceased, how can they be absolved? Their spiritual awareness is clouded and disordered, and they cannot escape the darkness of the netherworld. Today is an auspicious day. We gather to make this petition, asking that the deceased’s punishments be lifted, that their souls leave the prisons of endless darkness, and that the suffering caused by sinful karma and its evil roots be dispelled. Once the deceased dons the talisman and receives the Dao, they can renew their life and transcend to rebirth, reach the realm of the rarefied and obscure, and ascend to the wondrous Dao. Let all proceed in accordance with this proclamation.

The Mysterious Master said: Above the Nine Purities lies the supreme Golden Towers of the Jade Capital of Great Luo. The ritual code for pledging an oath with the perfected ones and joining together to save all beings is secretly stored within a jade casket. This is the Lingbao method for universally delivering the netherworld. Since the opening of the cosmic register in the era of Red Brightness, the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning has proclaimed numinous writings for relieving suffering and removing offenses, and has made a covenant with the holy perfected ones, who serve as witnesses. They vowed to deliver suffering spirits throughout millions upon millions of kalpas; hence the name “pledging an oath with the perfected ones.”

The scriptures of this covenant are divided into three grades: the highest is the Golden Register Code of the Upper Origin, the middle is the Jade Register Code of the Middle Origin, and the lowest is the Yellow Register Code of the Lower Origin. In general, the related methods are all included in the Lower Origin rites, which is why they are called the “Supreme Covenant with the Perfected, Jade Casket, Yellow Register Rite of Universal Deliverance for the Living and the Dead.” Now, for those cultivating the Dao… [The original text ends here unfinished]

These ritual forms should be prepared in full and followed with care. Never pass them casually to unsuitable people, lest matters of the Three Realms—Heaven, Earth, and Water, governed by the Three Officials of the Upper, Middle, and Lower Primordial Periods—be thrown into confusion and bring blame upon you. But if you encounter someone suitable and fail to teach them or demonstrate the methods, you will obstruct the grace of the Dao and immediately incur Heaven’s punishment. You should treat this matter with great care.

Precious Proclamation of the Nine Heavens

Golden Book of the Middle Primordial Period: Precious Proclamation of the Nine Heavens

The Supreme Emperor issues this talismanic command and proclaims it to the great gods who oversee the celestial prisons and the underworld: Together, escort the body and soul of the deceased (name) and respectfully receive this precious proclamation. Let the deceased appear before the imperial court, so that sins and enmities may be reconciled and dispelled, and the deceased may unite with the Dao. Let the spirit ascend to the Jade Palace, the heavenly court, receive refinement and salvation, and endure forever. In accordance with this proclamation, dispatch it at once by wind and fire. This command is issued in the year, month, day, and hour of (date).

When writing the precious proclamation, kneel facing northwest and burn incense. Visualize the Supreme Emperor of the Nine Heavens and nine divine beings, dressed in imperial robes and standing above the Crimson Firmament. After silently making your petition, recite the “Chapter on the Nine Heavens Giving Birth to the Spirits” nine times. Gather the Nine Qi, then blow the breath toward the tip of the brush as you write the talisman. When finished, recite the text once more, blow on the talisman as before, and form the Jade Clarity mudra. Then read the proclamation before the Three Treasures—the Dao, the scriptures, and the teachers. After reading it, give it to the deceased and burn it amid the green smoke.

(The text of the proclamation is written in four lines, with the year, month, day, and hour on one line.)

This proclamation may be written in cinnabar on yellow paper, or in ink on paper. It may also be mounted on silk or brocade, in the style of an imperial decree. When performing the rite of refinement and salvation for the deceased, read it at night; when finished, give it to the spirit of the deceased.

Talisman of Ritual Wine

The talismanic text says that the Venerable Lord of the Mysterious Origin bestows ritual wine under such names as “Golden Nectar of the Mysterious Brahma Heaven,” “Ritual Wine Conferred by the Great Brahma Heaven,” and “Jade-Nectar Elixir of the Precious Brahma Heaven.” It also calls this wine “the natural brew of the Dao of the Six Qi,” “the brew of the virtue of the Primal Origin,” “the brew of wisdom,” “the brew of numinous power,” and “the brew that refines the substance of the finest fungi.” Drinking it can dissolve the Four Qi and refine the Three Souls, becoming a brew that refines demons and brings wondrous awakening and transformation, while joining Yin and Yang. It can also harmonize the Yin and Yang of the organs through the spirit Wuying, fill the central True, restore the form of Li-Wu, set the sun and moon in motion, free one from the body, and open the Celestial Gate.

The Divine Sovereign says: Once refinement through water and fire is complete, ritual wine should be given to the deceased to drink, so that they may undergo further refinement. To write the ritual wine talisman, use a piece of yellow patterned paper one inch long and one inch wide. Face southeast, recite the hidden names of the Three Heavens, gather their Qi, and write the talisman. Burn it to ashes, mix the ashes into wine, and give the wine to the deceased to drink.

Precious Warrant for Delivering Souls from the Southern Palace and Raising Them to Heaven

The talismanic text says: Pour the Primal Essence into the process of refinement and nourishment, so that the soul and spirit become clear and upright. Let the Mysterious Nectar nourish the Primal Root, so that the myriad Qi endure forever.

(No longer experiencing suffering, the body emits light.)

(Attaining clarity and understanding, clothed in … its …)

(Acting in accord with the righteous Dao, proclaiming the profound principles of the celestial realm.)

(Recording the laws and regulations, presiding over the affairs and transformations of the Imperial Lords.)

(The ford is suitable …)

On a certain year, month, and day, the deceased so-and-so was rescued and delivered through refinement, elevated to become a Perfected One, and admitted to a rank within the realm of the Dao.

I, your servant so-and-so, carry out this method.

The text of this certificate is written on blue paper, with its folded corners marked in vermilion. The paper is three cun and two fen wide, and seven cun long.

Cover:

“Celestial Ascension Treasure Certificate. Hand this to the deceased so-and-so to wear and carry, so that they may ascend and attend court in the Imperial Palace. Urgently carry out this command in accordance with the Great Lingbao Method of the Supreme Emperor.” The named official, of the stated rank, respectfully reports this and seals it with reverence.

Reverse talisman:

“The primordial ancestral Qi: the suffering and anguish of the departed souls. All shall immediately receive deliverance and ascend to the Vermilion Palace.”

The Human Sovereign said: “This treasure certificate is an indispensable proof of the Imperial Lord’s command to rescue and deliver the departed souls of former generations. It should be placed in a crimson-colored pouch and given to the soul receiving deliverance to hold, enabling it to ascend to heaven.”

Making the Spirit Kings’ Chariot for Ascension

The Human Sovereign said: “For the ritual, make a purple chariot from colored silk. Two Spirit Kings support its wheels, and five horses draw the carriage. Place the deceased’s memorial tablet inside. When performing the bridge-crossing rite, burn the purple chariot. Never send the deceased off with their banner: burn the white banner used to summon the departed soul beside the ritual pool during the refining rite. Replace it with a red banner before crossing the fire pool. When the ritual is over, burn the red banner and replace it with a yellow one. A young attendant leads the deceased before the chariot as they cross the Gate of Heaven.”

As the chariot is burned, recite the incantation and form the Supreme Emperor mudra:

“By the might and numinous power of the Celestial Worthy, rescue the souls of all beings. Auspicious smoke seals the gate of death; felicitous clouds open the gate of life. Draw once more upon Heaven’s Qi to command the souls of the Nine Heavens. Let them merge into the Primordial One and become beings of the natural Dao; riding the purple cloud chariot, they attend court before the Lord of the Muddy Pellet. No barrier remains anywhere in the Three Realms; they are forever freed from the ford of transmigration.”

As the paper is burned, recite the incantation:

“The flames of the Fire Bell blaze fiercely, their transformations reaching in all directions. The myriad spirits stand guard, forever dispelling ill omen. Urgently carry out this command in accordance with the Fire Bell’s Vermilion Heaven edict.”

After reciting the incantation, visualize the Celestial Worthy lowering a precious orb. From within it, ten thousand beams of light shine forth, guiding the deceased into the celestial realm.

The Mysterious Master said: “For the talismans, documents, proclamations, and certificates above, the first proclamation is called ‘Deliverance and Salvation,’ the second ‘Transcendent Deliverance,’ and the third ‘Ascension.’ When deliverance is extended universally, it is called ‘Rescue and Deliverance.’”

Recite the “Incantation for Circulating the Five Qi and Eliminating Evil Roots”:

Red apricot wood supports the left side, allowing limbs stiffened by swelling abscesses to stretch out. (Write the Thunder Trigram talisman, visualize Thunder Qi, and swallow the talisman.) Black ink clears the upper body, making the ears and eyes keen. (Write the Water Trigram talisman, visualize Water Qi, and swallow the talisman.) Refining true Qi brings protection, restoring balance to the slack and weakened limbs on the right. (Write the Lake Trigram talisman, visualize Lake Qi, and swallow the talisman.) Those whose lower limbs are weak or lame, and who are too ill to walk, can also rise and walk again. (Write the Fire Trigram talisman, visualize Fire Qi, and swallow the talisman.)

The Qi of Lingbao flows in harmony through the center, strengthening the body and making it light. (Write a talisman at the middle finger, visualize central Qi, and swallow the talisman.) The Azure Emperor protects the hun soul, allowing the Liver Wood to flourish. (Write the talisman for the Mao position, visualize Mao Qi, and swallow the talisman.) The Red Emperor nurtures primordial Qi, making the Heart Fire bright and clear. (Write the talisman for the Wu position, visualize Wu Qi, and swallow the talisman.) The White Emperor keeps the po soul at peace, ensuring the Lung Metal’s abundant generative power. (Write the talisman for the You position, visualize You Qi, and swallow the talisman.) The Black Emperor keeps the blood vessels flowing freely and makes the Kidney Water still and serene. (Write the talisman for the Zi position, visualize Zi Qi, and swallow the talisman.) The Yellow Emperor dwells at the center and governs the Spleen Earth, bringing it peace. (Write the talisman at the middle finger, visualize central Qi, and swallow the talisman.)

Primordial Qi of the heavens spreads everywhere, and the true Dao comes to fruition naturally. (Write a talisman at the central position, visualize Jiawu Qi, and swallow the talisman.) Let the corpse move again and the dead return to life; let white bones take shape once more as a complete human body. (Visualize the celestial-gate Qi from Zi through Hai, and swallow the talisman.) Rescue those at the point of death whose breath has ceased, and bring them back to life. (Visualize Fire Qi from Kan to Li, and swallow the talisman.) When the Nine Qi unite and the count of ten is complete, transform and ascend into Shangqing. Act swiftly in accordance with the ordinances!

The Wood Officer of Mount Tai, the Primordial Lady of the Nine Qi; the Three-Qi Primordial Ladies of the Fire Palaces of Mount Heng and Mount Huo; the Metal Lord of the Seven Qi of Mount Hua; the Water Emperor of the Five Qi of Mount Heng; and the Supreme Emperor of Mount Song, Lord of the One Qi.

The above are the Jade Taboo Talismans of the Five Emperors.

Talisman for the Azure Emperor’s Protection of the Hun Soul

Lord of the Five Phases, ruler of the Nine Qi and guardian of the East; Azure Yang brings forth creation, its radiance blazing bright. Flying clouds gather to form talismanic script, while the wind horses stand high and obedient. Numinous mists sweep away ill omens and auspicious signs, giving birth to the transforming force of spring. The Wood Officer extends his abundant grace, guarding and protecting the Liver Hun.

Hymn to the Azure Emperor’s Talisman

Gaze far to the east, bow with solemn respect, and pay homage to the Jade Emperor of the Azure Realm. The divine wind stirs the bellows of Heaven and Earth, nurturing all things and bestowing the primordial Qi of early spring. Cloud dragons draw the chariot in a stately procession; Jade Guards surround its jewel-like wheels. Grace spreads widely, moistening withered trees and new shoots, reaching every creature equally. The myriad immortals chant the Great Dao, giving detailed and winding admonitions to the people of Heaven and the world: when the mind’s root is deluded, it clings stubbornly to its fixation. One should kneel in reverence and receive the vast benevolence.

The talisman on the right protects those who have attained the Dao, enabling their three souls to commune with the numinous and remain clear and lucid. Write it in blue-green ink—possibly referring to a blue-green talismanic book—on white silk and wear it on the body. Receive it on the day of the Beginning of Spring. If it is to be swallowed, write it on bamboo membrane, making three copies.

Black Emperor’s Blood-Flowing Talisman

The talisman bears phrases such as “The mysterious image transforms and adapts,” “Gathering Qi into the true origin, vast and boundless,” “Penetrating throughout,” “The Black Radiance commands and controls,” “The Jade Emperor of the Three Palaces, the flying dragon,” “The subtle and wondrous original substance,” and “The utmost Dao is difficult to bring to an end.”

Song of the Black Emperor Talisman:

Without form or substance, it governs all things. Deep and hidden, this is the intent of the Supreme Lord. If the Dao does not reveal itself, its wondrous principles and the workings of creation are difficult to discern. The only fear is that the dark thoughts in your heart have not yet been cleared away, and that you will soon sink into them again, suffer amid the boundless waves of rebirth, and lose your way on the path of seeking the Dao. You should remain vigilant and self-possessed for a long time. Once you let yourself fall and descend into the shadowy realm of ghosts, the resulting calamity will be hard to bear.

The talisman on the right nourishes and protects those who have attained the Dao, ensuring that the blood vessels flow freely, Qi and blood are vigorous, and there is no obstruction anywhere in the body. The Black Emperor is the Water Emperor of the Great Nonbeing. In the human body, water corresponds to blood. Write it in ink on blue-green silk and wear it. Receive it on the day of the Beginning of Winter. If it is to be swallowed, write it on bamboo membrane, making one copy.

Yellow Emperor, Central Lord Talisman

The talisman bears phrases such as “The murky, dark beginning,” “The myriad Brahmas of the Three Heavens, opening and expanding the Great Abundance,” “Governing the round image, fashioned by the Emperor,” “The boundless Yellow Palace within Earth,” “The Three Yangs arise,” and “Ease and joy through ten thousand springs.”

Song of the Yellow Emperor Talisman:

The Yellow Heaven dwells at the center, governs the palaces, and commands the source of jade transformation. It opens the mysterious pivot, connects the long cycles of the calendar, shines with penetrating clarity, and opens the gateways to the four directions. The Qi of Great Abundance joins with the true Qi of the Primordial Emperor, governing the spirits and souls of the constellations. Without the Emperor’s Dao in operation, the myriad things would have nothing to rely on; through it, each has its own place and can endure. In its awe-inspiring wrath, it is like the killing frost of autumn; in its gentle ease, it is like the warmth of spring. It governs the generation of the myriad things and holds the guiding principles of the primordial beginning. We depend on its grace, which is vast and boundless.

The talisman on the right guards the organs in the middle of the body and restrains the spirits, so that they do not stray from their proper places or fall into disorder. In the human body, the liver stores the Hun, and the lungs store the Po. The two kinds of Qi in the Crimson Palace, where the heart spirit resides, and in the Dantian (energy center) meet: red Qi descends, while the Qi of the Mysterious Spring rises. The heart stores blood, and the kidneys store Jing (essence); the two kinds of Qi circulate and join, nourishing one another. Within the Yellow Court, the body’s center of spiritual Qi, is where the spirit and intention reside.

The Yellow Emperor is the Central Lord, commanding the myriad spirits and ensuring that each remains in its proper place. Write it on yellow paper and wear it on crimson silk. Receive it on the day when Earth holds sway. If it is to be swallowed, write it on bamboo membrane, making five copies.

White Emperor’s Po-Guarding Talisman

The talisman reads: “The Three Qi exhale purity, penetrating…”

[Fragment from the preceding passage] The divine spirits enter the mysterious realm and also enter my body.

The Yin souls return to Yang Qi. Dawn light shines down, purifying the Seven Corpse Spirits, while the assembled gods come to attend and welcome them like mayflies. Golden light radiates its brilliance, preserving my pure and numinous Qi.

Song of the White Emperor’s Talisman

The Six Jia spirits protect the Golden Palace, and the star gods of the Seven Luminaries guard the numinous altar. The flowing bell hurls out blazing fire; the mighty sword coils like a dragon. I beseech the True Spirit of Pure Numen to descend and reveal the law. Who would dare intrude? Bind and subdue demons, ghosts, and fiends, making them fall in terror and vanish in the cold winds high above. Once the evil Qi is quelled, all the heavens at once become peaceful. The assembled perfected beings receive this vast protection, bow their heads in celebration, and sing with joy.

Those who have attained the Dao wear this talisman on their person so that the Seven Po do not become scattered and the ghostly realm is kept at bay. Write it in white pigment on purple silk and receive it on the day Autumn Begins. Alternatively, write it on bamboo membrane, make four copies, and swallow them.

Red Emperor Talisman for Nurturing Qi

The Five Qi—the five primal energies—circulate in an endless flow. The spring’s currents turn the Mysterious Pearl day after day; its radiance shines through and illuminates Mount Hua. The Three Palaces—the three cultivation sites within the body—rise and descend, coming and going without end. Yang essence blazes with bright radiance; within the Purple Chamber, all things arise and mingle. The Nine Hun are refined and made pure. Red Qi flows through the blood vessels, allowing Qi and blood to circulate freely. Cinnabar Qi returns from the Tribulation Terrace to the chamber of fetal fire.

Song of the Red Emperor’s Talisman

The Great Radiance opens the Jade Pivot, and the cavern hall opens its Golden Gate. Immortal groves shade the jade steps; a vermilion phoenix treads upon pearls like fine jade. The precious chamber is called Qu Li, the dwelling place of the divine spirits. Travel and roam through the broad immortal path, guiding the gaze toward the True Capital. The heavenly sun shines forever and never sets. Layer upon layer of mist veils the azure abode. The Highest One issues a seal and mandate, opens the book wrapping, and takes out the bamboo slips. The wind aids the wondrous transformation that brings life forth. The grace is so deep that there is truly no way to repay it.

This talisman is governed by the Red Emperor. The Red Emperor belongs to Fire and can generate and nurture primal Qi. The Yellow Emperor said, “Excessive fire depletes Qi; lesser fire can generate and nurture Qi.” Qi must first be warmed before it can be nourished. Write it in yellow pigment on yellow silk and receive it on the day Summer Begins. Alternatively, write it on bamboo membrane, make two copies, and swallow them.

The Demon King of the Azure Heaven is named Ba Yuan Choubo; the Demon King of the Red Heaven is named Fu Tian Yanshi; the Demon King of the White Heaven is named Fan Shan Liumu; the Demon King of the Black Heaven is named Jian Chou Langfu; and the Demon King of the Yellow Heaven is named Heng Tian Yanli. The Great Demons of the Five Emperors are the forebears of the myriad spirits.

The five talismans of the True Emperors above are used to refine and deliver the souls of the deceased. Report and perform the rites in accordance with the ritual, so that the departed may ascend to a blessed realm and never again enter the cycle of rebirth.

Vast Firmament Talisman of Brahmic Qi

The Taishang Fanqi Miluo Yujing Red Script and Jade Characters: The Jade Emperor Hand-Seal Formula

(A hand-seal formula performed while visualizing the Jade Emperor)

Recite the Jade Emperor’s honorific title once, saying each character a single time. Then draw in three breaths of Qi and blow onto the talisman.

Talisman for Turning Back the Corpse and Reviving the Dead (A talisman for turning a corpse around and restoring the dead to life)

Pinch the middle section of the middle finger. Draw in one breath of Qi, hold your breath, and complete the talisman in a single stroke. Visualize a golden radiance extending ten thousand zhang appearing within it.

Talisman for Deliverance from the Point of Death (A talisman for saving those near death; perform the Liwen hand-seal)

Incantation:

“Save and deliver those whose lives are ebbing away; turn death into life. Bring together a thousand kinds of harmony and bring about ten thousand transformations; let them return to Shangqing.”

Hurry, in accordance with the statutes and commands.

The Five Jade Chapters

The Human Sovereign said: “The so-called Five Chapters are jade texts formed from the naturally arising, supremely refined Qi of the Heavenly Worthy of Primordial Beginning, condensed from the Qi of emptiness and chaos. They guard the heights of the Great Luo Heaven.

“In ancient times, during the era of the August Sovereigns, the stars moved out of order and baleful stars descended, encroaching upon the Three Heavens. The True Brahma Perfected sent the Five Chapters to the Five Emperors, who guarded the Celestial Origin and restored order in Heaven. The True Suchness Perfected then sent the Five Chapters to the Five Sacred Peaks, to stabilize the order of the earth and govern the spirits of the soil. The Wondrous Practice Perfected sent them to the rulers of famous mountains, where they would await adepts who had attained the Dao and could spread the teachings and deliver the living and the dead.

“The power of the Qi of the Five Chapters is vast. Above, it can dispel celestial calamities; in the middle, it can protect the nation’s good fortune; below, it can deliver the people. When summoning the Five Emperors of the Three Realms or establishing various ritual altars, choose a day when Earth is dominant. Write the Five Chapters in blue-green, white, and vermilion, and place them in the five directions. All spirits will then submit in awe, and the assembled immortals will answer the summons; once called, none will fail to obey.

“To write them, face east inside a clean room. Bow twice, then kneel upright and visualize yourself as the Heavenly Worthy of Primordial Beginning, guarded by the myriad spirits, your body radiating light. Then draw in the five colors of Qi corresponding to the five directions and form the Jade Clarity hand-seal. Inhale the Qi of the Nine Heavens through your nose, bring it into your mouth, and swallow nine times. Next, visualize the Qi of your Dantian rising to the Niwan Palace, the cultivation point at the crown of the head, and circulating throughout your body, reaching every pore and opening. Let it shine with great radiance, illuminating the heavens, the earth, and the sun, moon, and stars.

“Then silently recite the secret incantation twelve times, draw in a breath and blow on the brush, and rise to bow twice. Hold the brush and click your teeth thirty-two times, then write according to the Dispersing Form Incantation. When the talisman is complete, visualize the stars above covering its form, and envision the radiance of the celestial constellations, the sun and moon, and the Primordial…” The original breaks off here at “and the Primordial”; no further text is provided.

The qi of the “Five Chapters” flows on from one to another and reflects between them, stored within and without. When using them, face the Gate of Heaven, bow twice, burn incense, explain the reason in detail, and make a report to the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning. Then bow again, kneel upright, and take up the text.

This method can dispel misfortune and can also be used in the rite of “the Five Refinements of the Living and the Dead.” After burning it, put it into practice. If refining on behalf of a living person, have that person wear the scripture on their body. After passing through life, they will be spared illness and calamity for a long time. After death, the Earthly Office will receive them; they will bypass the hells, regain their form, and roam through the vastness of space. If refining on behalf of a wandering soul, having it behold the jade script will cause a precious radiance to emerge from its body. It will then put delusion behind it and escape the cycle of rebirth.

How could a perfected person who practices the Great Lingbao Method and undergoes refinement while dwelling in the mountains fail to encounter this chapter? Wear it on your person or use it to seal a darkened chamber, and the myriad demons will not dare approach, nor will evil spirits dare intrude. Naturally, the myriad heavens will honor you, and the spirits will guard the entrances. Inner and outer realms will be bright, and the many kinds of calamity will be unable to trouble you. This may be called a method for preserving all living beings, resisting the cycles of tribulation, and ensuring that the Way of Heaven endures.

When writing the Five Chapters, the secret incantation is:

“Unite the august sovereigns; eight circuits and nine renewals. Jade Dawn and golden radiance, the true script is laid forth. The jade wheel rides the flying gale; Primordial Simplicity orders the true. The spiritual root of Lingbao, the six directions illumined by numinous light. The jade chapters form themselves into the true script. I now write the talismanic seal, distributing the qi of Primordial Beginning; the myriad spirits gather this qi and assemble together in the imperial court.”

First Jade Talisman

What follows lists the characters and words in the talisman alongside their corresponding positions or finger-gesture instructions. The original marks the talisman’s words in parentheses and indicates writing or gesture positions with terms such as Yin, Mao, Chen, Si, Kan, Li, Dui, and You. Some of the writing or layout may be damaged; the entries are transcribed here in the original order without attempting to interpret them:

“Viewing / Lush Twining” at the Yin position; “Great Brightness / Purple Void” at the Yin position; “Nine Spirits / Delivering Souls” at the Mao position; “Opening Heaven and Earth / Jade Truth” at the Chen position; “Ayi / Radiant Splendor” at the Si position; “Flying Heaven / Flowing Sound” at the Yin position; “Wheel / Radiance” at the Mao position; “Sovereign / Constant” at the Mao position; “Metropolis / Numinous” in the middle of the four fingers; “Nourishment / Fulfillment” and “Opening / Falling” on the third finger; “Great / Abundance” in the middle of the third finger; “Auspicious / Clouds” and “Opening / Numinous” from the Yin position to the middle finger; “Three Perfected Ones / Governing All” at the Mao position, in the middle of the finger; “Three Qi / Dividing Forms” in the middle of the four fingers; “My Position Above, the Sovereign / Long-lasting Glory of the World” marked at the upper, middle, and lower joints of the middle finger; “Seven Luminaries / Shining on Demons” at the Yin and Kan positions; “Quiet and Harmonious / Spreading Flourishing” at the Li position; “Five Phases / Regulating the Cycles” at the Dui position; “Nine Qi / Circling Back” at the Mao position; “Seven Origins” in the middle of the middle finger; “Twelve” at the You position; “Southern Command” at the end.

(Attentive reflection of the perfected body of Jizheng.)

(Qingzhen / Weiling) snaps the fingers at the Hai position.

Second Jade Talisman

(Xuwu / Shoushang) at the Si position; (Tianji / Michen) at the Wu position; (Siyu / Yuxiang) at the Wei position.

(Zhuoyao / Tengjing) at the Kan position; (Huanhe / Dongyang) at the Li position; (Fujing / Yuguang) at the Kun position.

(Qiling / Yaoge) at the Yin position; (Shiyuan / Zitang) above the fourth finger; (Luo / Ying) at the middle of the fourth finger.

(San / Jing) above the middle finger; (Yao / Ming) at the middle of the middle finger; (Yu / Fang) also at the middle of the middle finger.

(Jin) at the You position; (Xuan) at the Chou position; (He / Shou) at the Si position.

(Perfect essence, dark and profound.)

(Si / Xiang) at the Mao position; (Ba / Gua) revolve through the eight directions; (Qi / Qi) fly and spread through the Yang Dipper.

(Qi / Yuan) fly and spread through the Yin Dipper; (Sanyuan / Yizheng) at the Si and Wu positions and at the major Shen position; (Wuxing / Xuanji) at the middle of the middle finger.

(Feidu / Wuhu) at the Hai and Xu positions; (Sijing / Huishi) at the Wu position; (San / Zhen) at the Wei position.

(Liu / Qi) snaps the fingers at the Si position; (all the Brahma realms / open wide).

Third Jade Talisman

(Bachen / Zongshou), (Shaozhu / Shejing), (Jiuqian / Duyu).

(Feisheng / Shangling), (Milu / Jingjing), (Fukongguan / Yulunwo).

(Huang / Hua), (Hongyun Shenkai / Xuanming Jun Kuo).

(Yan / Wan), (Dan / Ting), (four, six, and ten / the three gates of the directional measures).

(Shouwei / Siqi), (Eshou / Simen).

All the talisman formulas above are performed together with the “middle-of-the-middle-finger mudra”: a ritual technique in which the middle finger is placed at the corresponding position or formed into the corresponding hand sign.

Fourth Jade Talisman

(Dayou / Fujing) at the Zi position; (Zhen / Ding) at the Chou position; (Hua / Yuan) at the Yin position.

(Yan / Wan) at the Mao position; (Su / Miao) at the Shen position; (Yuliang / Chengyan) at the Hai position; (Xiao / Zhi) at the Xu position.

(Jie / Yu) at the Chou position; (Jing / Luo) above the fourth finger; (Qi / Li) at the middle of the fourth finger.

(Xiupan / Sanfu) below the fourth finger; (Liuhui / Jiuyuan) at the You position; (Ji / Ran) above the third finger.

These passages are Jade Talisman formulas used in Daoist talismanic ritual. They combine specific divine names, directions, and finger positions. Si, Wu, Kan, and Li are markers for directions or times, while “above the finger” and “at the middle of the finger” indicate where the fingers are positioned during the ritual gestures. Much of the original consists of talisman names, divine titles, and procedural markers; their precise meanings must be understood in relation to the corresponding talisman diagrams and ritual instructions, and cannot be determined from the wording alone.

Amidst the subtle and boundless expanse, point toward the middle finger; flying blossoms occupy the Kan position and sweep across the You position.

Chenlan (or “Luji”) occupies the Shen position; Damo (or “Da”) occupies the Wu position; Youyan (or “Yan”) occupies the Wei position.

Yin Shi (or “Yang Jiu”) occupies the Zi and Wu positions; Tianbian (or “Fei A”) occupies the Wu position; A Qiu Jiu Du (or “Wu Qi Hui Piao”) occupies the Wei position.

Qi Xuan (or “Du Ming”) occupies the You position; Liu Fu (or “Chong Ying”) occupies the Xu position.

Xingxiu Tingguan (or “Liuguang Baigu”) is at the center of the middle finger.

Fifth Chapter: Jade Talisman

Tiankun (or “Wu”) occupies the Qian position; Weng occupies the You position; Fu occupies the Si position.

Longyuan Airuo.

Zijing (or “Zi”) occupies the Si position; Fuyuan (or “Fu”) occupies the Hai position; Mingxing (or “Dayu”) occupies the Yin position.

Jiuji (or “Hua Qian”) occupies the Shen position; Fuxing (or “Hou De”) is above the fourth finger; Yuan A (or “Lun Jing”) is below the fourth finger.

Yu (or “Ying”) is at the center of the fourth finger; Ming (or “Tuo”) is below the third finger; Jingchen (or “Miao Yun”) is above the third finger.

Dawei (or “Zongjian”) is at the center of the third finger; Xiule (or “Jin Tian”) occupies the Kan position; Zixu (or “Tuo Qiu”) occupies the Li position.

Jieliang (or “Jiao Qian”) is at the western opening; Bixia (or “Yun Fan”) occupies the Mao position; Miaomiao (or “You Yuan”) is at the center of the thumb.

Liubian (or “Yun Liang”) is below the thumb; Guojue (or “E Qian”) is at the center of the middle finger; “Yi Guan Xuan” (or “Mo Wanbian”).

To become an immortal, snap your fingers at the Wu position.

Second Chapter: Proclamation for the Jade Talisman

Jade Talisman of the Nine Truths of the Great Clarity for Pacifying and Transforming the Supreme Love

Talisman text:

The bright, clear Qi of the East stirs into motion, nourishing the essence of Wood and sending forth benevolent Qi to spread and nurture all things. The heavenly order and earthly laws are set right in accordance with the seasons. Gather the radiance and return it to the divine realm, where the spirits dwell; transform it into blue script that shines for ten thousand miles.

The above is offered in accordance with the authentic text for pacification transmitted by Yuanshi, the Daoist high deity, and is proclaimed to the lower realm.

The Azure Emperor of the East, ruler of the East, refines material form, enabling departed souls to ascend to the highest realm. All is to be carried out according to this proclamation.

Year, month, and day; with ritual rank; I, your servant, whose surname is so-and-so, hereby proclaim and carry this out.

Second Chapter: Proclamation for the Jade Talisman

Talisman of the Jade Transformation that Awakens Clarity through Communion with the Spirits

Talisman text:

The Qi of the Great Elixir unfurls its radiance, illuminating the four directions. It drifts and soars, transforming into flame to refine the Nine Yin, the deep and shadowed Qi. Its red talismanic characters congeal into a text of extraordinary form, spreading out to illuminate the realm of nine hundred million. Its essential radiance shines brightly, illuminating the heavens.

The above is offered in accordance with the prescribed rite.

The Writ of the Primordial Beginning for Pacifying and Stabilizing

The Red Emperor of the South refines the substance of departed souls, enabling them to ascend to the utmost heights; in accordance with the command

Year, month, and day. The ritual rank is duly recorded. I, the officiant, of the surname [name], issue this proclamation.

Third Jade Talisman Proclamation

Talisman of the True Sovereign’s Mixed Elixir and Reverent Mystery

Talisman text:

Yellow True Qi gathers and condenses its essence, sending forth radiant splendor. Qi descending from the void at the center mingles with the Qi of primordial chaos.

Yellow primordial essence converges and, following the cycles of the calendar, transforms and gives rise to patterned forms. Its glimmering essence extends for ten thousand miles, its radiance illuminating the reaches of the sky.

Respectfully presented below:

The Writ of the Primordial Beginning for Pacifying and Stabilizing.

The Yellow Emperor of the Center refines the substance of departed souls, enabling them to ascend to the utmost heights; in accordance with the command.

Year, month, and day. The ritual rank is duly recorded. I, the officiant, of the surname [name], issue this proclamation.

Fourth Jade Talisman Proclamation

Talisman of the Eight Powers that Banish Dragons, Subdue Tigers, Send Forth Radiance, and Transform through Great White Metal

Talisman text:

The Qi of white majesty flows and transforms, pure and upright. The light of authority streams forth; Shen Qi gathers and condenses into talismanic writing.

Its radiance shines for ten thousand miles. The talisman is wondrous and strange, revealing a brilliant light whose power subdues the myriad demons.

Respectfully presented below:

The Writ of the Primordial Beginning for Pacifying and Stabilizing.

The White Emperor of the West refines the substance of departed souls, enabling them to ascend to the utmost heights; in accordance with the command.

Year, month, and day. The ritual rank is duly recorded. I, the officiant, of the surname [name], issue this proclamation.

Fifth Jade Talisman Proclamation

Talisman of the Mysterious Signs of the Bright Order and the Nine Transformations of Great Radiance

Talisman text:

Mysterious essence and Qi emit light, nourishing all things as they take form; the source of vitality never runs dry. The seasons of Heaven proceed according to their measures and sequence.

The Jade Emperor’s high ministers gaze down from above. Wondrous transformations pass on in an unbroken succession, opening the mysterious order and making the commands of the celestial realm manifest.

All the emperors are invested with their titles, while the Qi of mysterious truth responds and harmonizes. The celestial patterns spread forth, and the ordinances and precepts are clear.

The great work of the Dao’s transformation and nurture is complete. It is condensed into a jade document, whose radiance shines across nine hundred million.

Respectfully presented below:

The Writ of the Primordial Beginning for Pacifying and Stabilizing.

The Black Emperor of the North refines the substance of departed souls, enabling them to ascend to the utmost heights; in accordance with the command.

Year, month, and day. The ritual rank is duly recorded. I, the officiant, of the surname [name], issue this proclamation.

Diagram of the Numinous Treasure’s Primordial Azure Transformation

The Celestial True Sovereign records with a purple brush the image of the Numinous Treasure’s Qi joining and transforming with primordial azure Qi. This diagram governs the generation of life among beings in the world, as well as among the spirits and ghosts of Heaven and Earth. The Dao can nourish and accumulate life-giving Qi, giving souls a place to dwell; through further condensation and refinement, one may attain the Dao and become a perfected being. A practitioner who obtains this diagram may write it in azure characters on bamboo or silk, wear it facing northwest, and seek protection…

Wearing the first diagram can extend one’s lifespan and prevent the Original Spirit and Original Qi from being depleted, thereby preserving life and bringing one into accord with the Dao. After it is worn, the Original Spirit and Original Qi return to the person, restoring youth. Even if one meets one’s destined end and enters the Great Yin—the underworld—as long as one wears and ingests the “Diagram of the Transformations of Primordial Blue,” the Sovereign Lord of Primordial Blue will ascend into the heavens alongside the practitioner, free and at ease. This diagram may also be used with skill and insight to refine and deliver departed souls.

Diagram of the Empty Song of the Azure Firmament

The Celestial Perfected Sovereign said: “In the human body, the Qi of the Azure Firmament appears as fine, interconnected channels through which it flows. The Qi of the Azure Firmament arises in the heaven of Primordial Blue in the Azure Firmament. In the human body, it transforms into 360 pulses, 360 channels, and 360 collaterals, and gives rise to finer branches, such as minute collaterals, branch collaterals, and threadlike collaterals. The Qi of the Great Brahma takes these as its foundation, then congeals within them into writing, forming diagrams and registers.

“Those who wear and use this diagram may have immortals write it in azure script on a piece of silk a foot in size, and summon the Celestial Perfected from the ten directions. When the Empty Song is played once, the myriad sages descend together. The methods for wearing it or putting its transformations into practice are the same as those described earlier.”

Diagram of the Great Land of Fuli

The Celestial Perfected Sovereign set down the writing in the diagram with a purple brush: blue represents the land, yellow the writing, and red the boundaries. The Land of Fuli is the place where the regions of the world are joined and the openings and hollows of the earth’s veins connect. The Qi of the Most High Bright Brahma of Central Yellow winds and circulates, allowing the palaces, towers, and terraces within the realm to settle into place and become manifest.

For those able to wear this diagram, the hundred spirits will come to pay homage to their body, the divine officials of the Three Realms will welcome them, the Demon Kings will obey their commands, and the Five Emperors will attend their carriage. The Sovereign Lord of the Great One of Central Yellow will also enter the Cavernous Writ alongside the practitioner and ascend to the Purple Chamber. This diagram governs the spleen and stomach in the human body and helps regulate and nourish the Qi of Great Harmony. The methods for wearing or ingesting it are the same as those described earlier.