《太上飛行九晨玉經》

The Supreme Lord of the Great Dao (a revered Daoist deity) once instructed the True Duke of the North Pole (guardian deity of the northern region): "In my past travels through the celestial realms of the north, I rode the chariot of the Moon Palace, trod upon the starry canopy, and guided the Nine Primordial Star Palaces, freely roaming the Mysterious Heaven of the North. I once rested at the Lunar Yin Immortal Lodge and observed celestial phenomena at the Gate of Subtle Clarity, contemplating the movement of the Northern Dipper (Xuanji). Witnessing the decay of all things while only heaven and earth endure, I comprehended the profound mysteries of the Nine Luminaries (the seven stars of the Dipper plus two assistant stars) and perceived the supreme spirituality of the Dipper's Handle Star (the first star of the Northern Dipper).

These nine stars are in fact the source of the nine celestial Qi (vital energy), the foundation of the sun and moon's radiance, and the origin from which all things arise. In heaven, the nine celestial Qi correspond to the nine stars as pivots of spiritual energy; on earth, the nine provinces correspond to the nine stars as guardian deities; in the human body, the nine orifices correspond to the nine stars as the root of life. The Yin-Yang Nine Palaces take the nine stars as their gates, while the Five Sacred Peaks and Four Seas draw their spiritual energy from them. The arrangement of the nine stars forms the cosmic order, governing all celestial bodies, regulating the movements of the sun, moon, and stars, and maintaining the harmony of the four seasons—thus revered by all beings and relied upon by immortals.

Without the nine stars in heaven, clarity would be lost; without them on earth, spiritual vitality would fade; without them in the human body, the nine orifices would grow dim. The Celestial Emperor attains the true Dao through them, immortals achieve enlightenment by their aid, the Five Phases (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) follow their orderly course, and all things flourish by their grace. When heaven and earth are tranquil, the nine stars shine brilliantly; when chaos reigns, they dim. The rotation of the Dipper marks the cycles of cosmic epochs, while the opening and closing of the celestial gates drive the Qi of the Five Phases, like a great axle turning in response to the Nine Heavens.

Thus, divine light circulates and illuminates, mysteriously observing all beings, using celestial omens to foretell fortune and calamity. The great transitions of heaven and earth, the fulfillment of cosmic epochs—all arise from the cyclical movements of the nine stars. When Yin and Yang fall out of balance and the two Qi (energies) are in disarray, cataclysmic changes occur: heaven and earth may overturn, seas may turn to fields, and even gold and jade may dissolve—yet the subtle rhythms of the nine stars never falter. To understand the mysteries of their movement, to grasp the profound laws governing heaven and earth, is to master the arts of invisibility and transformation, to shift between stars and all things, and to attain the twenty-five states of hidden transcendence (achievements of Daoist cultivation). These principles are profound and subtle indeed."

This passage reveals the profound mysteries of the "Jade Scripture of the Nine Dawns," the supreme cultivation method in Daoist practice. In the celestial realm, the Nine Dawn Flower Lords (divine embodiments of nine stellar deities) preside, while the Nine Imperial Consorts (nine female transcendents) govern the hun and po souls, essence (Jing), and spirit (Shen). All possess the awe-inspiring power of the Nine Stars of the Northern Dipper, radiating the brilliance of the sun, moon, and five planets to illuminate the Nine Heavenly Gates, transforming dark voids into luminous clarity.

The scripture describes how the Yang energy of stars manifests as Flowing Gold Fire Bells (a ritual implement), while their Yin energy forms the Seven Resplendent Guardians (seven protective deities). These represent the supreme numinous talismans (Fulu) and the majestic virtue (De) of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning. Practitioners must master the "Dragon Flight on White Silk" technique, with its secret formulas concealed within special symbols and ornate characters.

Through sincere ritual offerings of sheep and wild geese performed with proper ceremonial decorum (Keyi), one may invoke wondrous radiance descending upon the altar. The Nine Dawn Star Lords will descend to the cultivation site, while the Nine Imperial Consorts rejoice in the practitioner's dwelling. During this sacred communion, the Northern Dipper secretly records the cultivator's name. Those who comprehend and diligently practice this method can evade cosmic calamities, surviving the great flood predicted for the jiashen year (a time of tribulation in Daoist eschatology).

After fourteen years of cultivation, adepts soar like wild geese ascending through purple mists to the Ninth Heaven. This represents the peerless method of the Jade Pure Realm (highest of the Three Pure Ones/Sanqing), far surpassing ordinary transcendents of the Upper Pure Realm. The celestial hierarchy places the Jade Pure above the Upper Pure, which in turn surpasses the Great Pure Realm. Practitioners of the Jade Pure methods travel with entourages of celestial transcendents—three thousand jade maidens and youths forming their retinue, riding purple-cloud chariots with phoenixes singing before them and mysterious music following behind, escorted by six immortal masters astride flying dragons, their status equal to high-ranking transcendents.

Those cultivating Upper Pure methods journey with the protection of five stellar constellations, attended by fifteen hundred jade maidens and youths in crimson-cloud chariots, preceded by phoenix cries and celestial harmonies, with dark dragons clearing their path and the Five Thearchs in attendance. Great Pure practitioners receive protection from the Five Thearchs with eight hundred jade attendants in five-colored dragon chariots, heralded by nine phoenixes' cries and eight simurghs' harmonies, white hornless dragons leading the way accompanied by the Great Ultimate (Taiji) deity. This demonstrates the clear hierarchical progression within transcendent realms and the structured order of Daoist cultivation.

The text emphasizes that the Jade Pure methods remain profoundly mysterious and inaccessible to ordinary transcendents. This supreme method of the Nine Stars and their luminous reflections was personally transmitted by the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning to the scripture's compiler seventy million kalpas ago. Through countless cosmic cycles of creation and dissolution, this Daoist practice has endured, remaining vital for cultivation to this day.

This scripture expounds the Daoist practice of "flying through the Nine Dawns." The term "Nine Dawns" refers to the nine stars of the Northern Dipper (in Daoism, the seven stars of the Big Dipper plus two auxiliary stars, Fu and Bi, collectively called the Nine Stars). This is a method of cultivation that involves visualizing celestial bodies to achieve ascension.

The text begins by stating that merely admiring the beauty of clouds and mist without understanding the seasonal principles of cultivation will make it difficult to truly grasp the teachings, even with guidance from a master. Beginners who fail to comprehend the secrets of "wandering through the void in hidden steps" cannot transcend the multiple celestial realms and witness the origin of heaven and earth. Without mastering this method, one will be cut off from the energy field of the Nine Stars, bearing the name of an immortal but failing to reach the true realm. At best, such practitioners may ride clouds to visit the Five Sacred Mountains and attain longevity, but the ability to tread the stars and ascend to the highest Jade Purity Heaven remains far beyond reach.

The scripture then details the practice: Before cultivation, one must bathe and observe purification rituals a day in advance. During the actual practice, arrange a star chart in the courtyard according to the positions of the Northern Dipper, kneel facing north, and burn incense at the spot corresponding to the Mysterious Darkness Star (Xuanming). After knocking the teeth thirty-six times, close the eyes and visualize: the Year Star (Jupiter) at the left rib, the Great White Star (Venus) at the right rib, the Blazing Spark Star (Mars) above the head, the Morning Star (Mercury) below the navel, and the Guardian Star (Saturn) in the heart. Then, symbolically cover the nine star positions with clothing.

The visualization process is divided into left and right hand practices: First, raise the left hand in the shape of the Dipper and place it above the head. Visualize sequentially—the Bright Yang Star in the palm, the Hidden Essence Star at the elbow, the True Man Star at the left breast, the Mysterious Darkness Star corresponding to the heart (hence the earlier incense burning at this position), the Cinnabar Origin Star at the right hip, the North Pole Star at the right knee, the Heavenly Pass Star on the right instep, the Auxiliary Star below the navel, and the Support Star above the head. Simultaneously, silently recite an incantation, the gist of which is to invoke the divine power of the Northern Dipper to envelop and protect the body, aiding the ascent to the Nine Heavens. Finally, swallow Qi nine times.

The right-hand practice mirrors the left: Raise the right hand in the Dipper shape, visualizing each star corresponding to positions on the right side of the body, with the Auxiliary and Support Stars visualized in the left and right eyes, respectively. The incantation remains the same. This method, through precise stellar visualization and incantation, guides practitioners to resonate with the energy of the cosmos.

This passage describes the Daoist practice of "Flying Steps Through the Nine Stars," which outlines methods for cultivating celestial ascension through visualization of the stellar deities in the Big Dipper constellation.

The practitioner begins by imagining themselves performing Gangbu (Daoist ritual steps) while traversing between the seven stars. The first star is Celestial Pivot (the primary star of the Big Dipper), corresponding to the soul-spirit of Yang Brilliance Star. Though immensely powerful, this star emits no dazzling light, spanning 920 li in diameter and positioned northwest of Yang Brilliance Star. Also known as the Palace of Primordial Dipper, it is governed by the True Imperial Lady of Mysterious Perfection from Kui's Essence. Her given name is Mingtong, her courtesy name Yingxuan, and her Daoist title Supreme Essence. She wears her hair in a Flying Cloud Blossom chignon, adorned in immortal robes of purple, yellow, and blue, with a sash bearing nine bells at her waist. From her mouth constantly flows azure light that nourishes Yang Brilliance Star.

During practice, one must first visualize this Lady's form, then stand with feet together upon Celestial Pivot Star facing Yang Brilliance Star. The left hand rests over the heart while the right points toward the star. Knock teeth nine times, swallow saliva nine times, hold the breath three times while silently reciting an incantation. The chant essentially petitions the stellar deity for protection, seeking unity between hun (ethereal soul) and po (corporeal soul) to achieve celestial ascension. After completing the incantation, hold breath three more times, then step left foot onto Celestial Rotating Star (the second Dipper star).

Celestial Rotating Star corresponds to the soul-spirit of Yin Essence Star, its radiance inwardly contained with a diameter of 550 li. The practitioner similarly visualizes the corresponding stellar deity while continuing the flying steps practice. The entire cultivation follows the sequential order of the Big Dipper's seven stars, concluding at Hidden Origin Star (the seventh Dipper star) with recitation of the "Three Caverns' Verses on Soaring Through Emptiness."

This scripture meticulously documents the Daoist methods of cultivating celestial flight through stellar deity visualization and ritual stepping, including detailed descriptions of the deities' appearances, precise movement sequences, and accompanying incantations.

This scripture describes the "Flying Steps of the Nine Luminaries" practice in Daoist cultivation, focusing specifically on the stellar stepping methods involving two stars of the Big Dipper: the Yinjing Star (Second Star of the Dipper) and the Tianji Star (Third Star of the Dipper).

The Yinjing Star resides in the western sector of the Dipper, also known as the Mysterious Dipper Palace. Here dwells the Supreme Mysterious Empress of Ethereal Essence, whose original name is Jin Gui. She wears her hair in a Cloud-Soaring Chaplet style with tresses cascading to her waist, adorned in brocade skirts and a phoenix-patterned silk cape, fastened with a purple Spirit-Soaring sash. Black radiance constantly emanates from her mouth, illuminating the Yinjing Star. Practitioners should visualize her form while standing on the Tianxuan Star (First Star of the Dipper) facing the Yinjing Star, left hand pressed against the heart and right finger pointing toward the star. After knocking teeth nine times, swallowing saliva nine times, and holding breath nine times, they silently recite an incantation petitioning for soul stability and ascension with northern constellations. This is followed by three inhalations, stepping left foot onto the Tianji Star while bringing the right foot to meet it with regulated breathing.

The Tianji Star embodies the essence of the Zhenren (Perfected Being) Star. Though its light appears restrained, it penetrates the void with clarity. Located southeast of the Zhenren Star in the Upper Essence Palace, it is home to the Primordial Empress of Numinous Consorts, originally named Liu Yan. She wears the Dawn Infant jeweled crown, a Flying Cloud Radiance brocade robe, and the Six Peaks Soaring Dawn sash. Golden Qi perpetually flows from her mouth to illuminate the Zhenren Star. During practice, adepts visualize her form while standing on the Tianji Star facing the Zhenren Star, right hand over the heart and left finger extended toward the star. After nine tooth-knockings, nine saliva-swallowings, and twelve breath-holdings, they silently chant an incantation seeking flight through the nine heavens and longevity equal to the celestial sovereigns. The sequence concludes similarly with three inhalations, stepping left foot onto the Tianquan Star (Fourth Star of the Dipper) while synchronizing breath with the right foot's movement.

These methods belong to the esoteric "Treading the Dipper's Guidestar" techniques of Daoism. Through deity visualization, coordinated breath regulation, and precise stepping patterns, practitioners establish resonance with celestial bodies to attain the sublime state of ascending to the highest purity.

This passage describes the essential techniques for cultivating the Celestial Balance Star (Tianquan) and the Jade Pivot Star (Yuheng) in the Daoist practice of "Flying Steps Through the Nine Stars." The Celestial Balance Star is formed from the pò (corporeal soul) essence of the Mysterious Darkness Star (Xuanming). Its faint, flickering radiance illuminates eight hundred li of empty space, positioned at the eastern gate of the Mysterious Darkness Star. Also known as the Palace of Cosmic Poles (Gangji Gong), it is governed by the Floriate Sovereign Lady (Hua Huang Furen), whose personal name is Kaisheng, her spiritual name is Yunmingzhen, and her courtesy name is Yingguan. She wears a seven-jeweled crown, a vermilion robe embroidered with phoenixes, and a golden-jade girdle, while constantly exhaling crimson Qi to nourish the Mysterious Darkness Star.

When practicing the Flying Steps method, visualize the Floriate Sovereign Lady's form. Stand with feet together upon the Celestial Balance Star, facing the Mysterious Darkness Star. Place your right hand over the heart and point left hand toward the Mysterious Darkness Star. First, click the teeth nine times, swallow saliva three times, and hold the breath three times while silently reciting the incantation: "The Floriate Sovereign Lady guards the Northern Canopy Palace (Huagai Gong), attended by Jade Maidens and Numinous Youths. She guides the radiance of the Seven Stars and Nine Luminaries to aid my attainment of the Dao, enabling my hun and pò souls to ascend to celestial realms." After completing the recitation, hold breath three more times, then step forward with the left foot onto the Jade Pivot Star, followed by the right foot.

The Jade Pivot Star originates from the hún (ethereal soul) spirit of the Cinnabar Origin Star (Danyuan). Its magnificent yet restrained light illuminates seven hundred twenty li of void, located northeast of the Cinnabar Origin Star. Called the Palace of Recorded Illumination (Jiming Gong), it is governed by the Central Sovereign Lady (Zhong Huang Furen), whose personal name is Yuanfang, her spiritual name is Shenwuzhen, and her courtesy name is Bo. She wears a Purple Dawn Blossoming Crown (Zichen Feihua Guan), a nine-colored robe, and a Divine Tiger jade girdle, constantly exhaling white Qi to nourish the Cinnabar Origin Star.

During cultivation, visualize the Central Sovereign Lady's form. Stand feet together upon the Jade Pivot Star, facing the Cinnabar Origin Star with right hand over heart and left hand pointing toward it. Click teeth three times, swallow saliva three times, and hold breath three times while silently chanting: "The Central Sovereign Lady dwells within the Nine Dippers, inhaling and exhaling the essence of sun and moon. She connects my soul with heaven and earth, enabling me to ride purple clouds and crimson mists northward to comprehend celestial mysteries." After recitation, hold breath three more times before stepping left foot onto the Opening Yang Star (Kaiyang).

(Note: The Flying Steps Through the Nine Stars is a crucial Shangqing (Highest Clarity) Daoist practice. Through visualization of the Northern Dipper's nine stars, contemplation of stellar deities' forms, and coordinated steps with breath control, practitioners achieve flight and spiritual communion. Descriptions like "seven-jeweled crown" and "nine-colored robe" carry specific symbolic meanings corresponding to the Seven Stars of the Dipper and Nine Luminaries.)

This scripture describes the essential techniques for cultivating the Kaiyang and Yaoguang stars in the Daoist "Flying Steps Among Nine Stars" practice. Kaiyang Star is the gathered essence (Jing-Qi) of Polaris, radiating inwardly with a gentle light that illuminates emptiness without glare, spanning approximately 770 li. Positioned below the North Star, it corresponds to the Northern Cavern Gate. Also known as the Purple Ultimate Palace, it is inhabited by the Supreme Dawn Florescence Primordial Empress (surname Wang Yuan, given name Genhua Zhen, sobriquet Minghui). She wears the Jade Dawn Scholar's Cap, a cyan feathered robe, and carries the Flowing Gold Fire Bell. From her mouth constantly flows green vital essence (Qi) that nourishes Polaris, enhancing its brilliance.

During the Flying Steps practice, visualize this empress standing upon Kaiyang Star facing Polaris—left hand over the heart, right finger pointing toward the North Star. Knock teeth three times, swallow saliva five times, and hold the breath for five cycles while silently reciting:

"The Celestial Emperor of Nine Heavens reigns as sovereign of golden splendor,

Rotating the Northern Dipper, governing the eight directions.

Grant me passage to tread the stellar net,

Three and five intersecting to commune with divine spirits.

Clad in eightfold feather robes, riding the Mystic-Yellow Dragon Chariot,

Jade radiance soars through the void,

Eternal life merging with heaven-earth's primordial power."

After recitation, hold breath for five more cycles, then step left foot onto Yaoguang Star, bringing the right foot to follow while regulating Qi.

Yaoguang Star embodies the luminous soul (Shen) of the Celestial Pivot Star, swirling illumination across 900 li of emptiness—above aligned with the Southern Gate of the Celestial Pivot, below connecting to Polaris. Named the Palace of Cosmic Motion, it hosts the Jade Florescence Numinous Empress (surname Du Yuan, given name Zhonghui Zhen, sobriquet Qiguang). Her cascading "Flying Blossom" chignon trails to the waist, adorned in a rainbow-hued Cloud Brocade Skirt with nocturnal radiance, draped in a nine-colored embroidered cape, wielding the Jade Register of Nine Heaven's Majestic Power. From her mouth flows crimson essence nourishing the Celestial Pivot.

For cultivation, visualize this empress standing feet together on Yaoguang Star facing the Celestial Pivot—left hand over heart, right finger pointing upward. Knock teeth nine times, swallow saliva nine times, hold breath for three cycles, and silently intone:

"Heaven-earth revolves with seven stars alight,

Nine Qi spirals upward to resonate with Jade Purity..."* (incantation incomplete).

These methods emphasize harmonizing with celestial energies through deity visualization, breath regulation, and mantra recitation.

This passage describes the secret method of "Flying Steps Among the Nine Stars" from the Daoist scripture Supreme Flying Nine Luminaries Jade Classic, focusing on meditation practices involving the Companion Star (Dongming) and Assistant Star (Yinyuan) of the Big Dipper. Here's a modern interpretation of its core teachings:

Within the seven stars of the Big Dipper, there exist two special auxiliary stars—the Companion Star (Dongming) and the Assistant Star (Yinyuan). The Companion Star resides in the southwest, spanning approximately 990 li in diameter, corresponding to the Heavenly Palace of Empty Truth in the celestial realm. This is the abode of the Great Luminous Constant Sovereign Lady (a Daoist stellar deity), who wears her hair in flying cloud buns, adorns robes embroidered with spiral patterns, fastens a nine-colored luminous sash around her waist, and constantly emits azure Qi to nourish the Companion Star.

When practicing this method, practitioners should hold their breath seven times, first stepping left foot toward the Companion Star's direction, then bringing the right foot to meet it. Simultaneously, they should visualize this celestial lady—right hand over the heart, left hand pointing toward the star—knock teeth nine times, swallow saliva nine times, and after holding breath three times, silently recite the incantation: "The Three-Five fly onward, heaven and earth unfold..." Upon completion, hold breath twelve more times before turning to practice with the Assistant Star.

The Assistant Star occupies the southeast, also measuring 990 li in diameter, corresponding to the Palace of Original Treasures. Here resides the Supreme Sovereign Lady of Empty Mysteries and Transformative Numen (another stellar deity), who wears a seven-jeweled crown, dons indigo brocade robes, and constantly emits black Qi to nourish the Assistant Star. The practice method resembles that of the Companion Star, requiring visualization of this celestial lady.

The essence of this scripture lies in establishing connection with the Dipper Lords through specific breathing techniques, ritual footsteps, visualization, and mantras, achieving the cultivation state of "emerging from darkness into mystery, rotating with heaven and earth." Within Daoist practice, this "flying steps" method belongs to advanced visualization techniques believed to stabilize the hun and po souls, transform the physical form, and ultimately lead to longevity and spiritual vision.

This passage describes the Daoist practice of "Soaring Through the Nine Celestial Dawns," a visualization technique (cunsi) from the Shangqing tradition. Practitioners follow specific steps to traverse the starry heavens, combining incantations and mental imagery to achieve immortal ascension.

The practice begins by standing at the position of the Hidden Origin Star (an obscure star in the Big Dipper constellation), with feet together and the left foot corresponding to the Assistant Star (Bi, an auxiliary star of the Dipper). Place the left hand over the heart while pointing the right hand toward the Assistant Star. Knock the teeth twelve times and swallow saliva once. Then, holding the breath, recite the incantation:

"Treading upon celestial guidelines,

Passing through feathered gates,

Traversing three cycles of rebirth,

Concealing form, transforming infinitely.

Spirit settles, breath steadies,

Cultivating immortal souls.

When the whole body soars aloft,

Clad in brocade skirts,

With tassels and chimes interwoven,

Robed in tiger-striped garments.

Summoning the Five Directional Celestial Sovereigns,

Riding auspicious clouds,

Directly ascending to pay homage

To the Celestial Emperor at the North Star."

After reciting, briefly hold the breath. Then stand with feet together at the position of the Celestial Pivot Star (the first star of the Big Dipper), stepping back and forth in a single-footed pattern three times. This phase requires no further visualization or incantation. Upon completing the "Star-Stepping" (budou) ritual, face the Bright Luminous Star (likely Venus) and chant three verses from the Feathered Chapters of Nine Dawns.

The first verse depicts the Nine Dipper Stars shining in the void, with immortals chanting atop Purple Empyrean. The second describes riding cranes across the Heavenly River, wandering through mysterious realms. The third portrays the jade-hued celestial paradise, traversing layered heavenly gates until worldly attachments fade.

The text emphasizes that when practicing the "Seven Primes Soaring Steps" or the "Way of Nine Stars," these verses must be chanted to walk the stellar path. Violating this rule risks having the Nine Stars imprison one's soul, leading to mental derangement and violent temperament. These verses originate from the Upper Palace of Jade Purity, often sung by the Nine Yang Jade Youths and Nine Radiance Jade Maidens atop Flowering Dawns to harmonize body and spirit while awakening spiritual insight.

This scripture elucidates the essential techniques for cultivating the "Flight of the Nine Dawns" (a Daoist ascension method). It first warns that practicing recklessly without following the correct path will lead to death within three years. The Dao's methods do not prevent immortality—rather, people fail to comprehend the Dao's fundamental principles. Most practitioners only understand the marvelous applications of "Treading the Seven Stars" (the Big Dipper cultivation method) but remain ignorant of the more advanced "Nine Stars' Ethereal Essence" (the spiritual nature of the Nine Stars of the Northern Dipper).

The scripture explains that it is not that the Seven Stars of the Northern Dipper refuse to assist human ascension, but rather that the human soul fears the stellar power and dares not soar with the physical body. To master this flight technique, one must grasp the mysteries of the Nine Stars' ethereal essence and the secret formulas of the "Nine Imperial Consorts" (nine goddesses corresponding to the Nine Stars). By practicing the correct method, one can ascend to the celestial realm of the Northern Heaven and pay homage to Hua Chen (the Northern Dipper Star Lord). However, this method is profoundly advanced—a secret transmission from the Jade Pure Realm (the highest Daoist heaven)—and even ordinary terrestrial immortals find it difficult to comprehend.

It provides a detailed description of the Yang Brilliance Star (the first star of the Northern Dipper): this celestial body serves as the Heaven's Grand Marshal Star Lord, overseeing records of merits and faults while governing the immortals of the Nine Heavens, the transcendent beings of the Five Sacred Mountains, and all Daoist cultivators. The star spans 920 li in diameter, composed of crystal-clear glass, with jade trees bearing blue fruits and golden-winged birds dwelling upon it. Consuming the azure jade mushrooms growing on these trees grants 90,000 years of longevity per mouthful. The star has nine gates and four lights, its radiance illuminating vast distances. Upon it stands the Green City Jade Tower, residence of the "Lord of the Nine Dawns" (one of the Northern Dipper Star Lords), who wears a nine-dawn jade crown, dons blue feathered robes, and holds a star chart in hand.

Practice method: First, face the direction of the Yang Brilliance Star, place the right hand over the heart while pointing skyward with the left, hold the breath nine times toward the northeast, click the teeth nine times, and swallow saliva three times. With closed eyes, visualize the form and name of the Lord of the Nine Dawns while silently reciting invocations. The scripture emphasizes that one must know the Lord's inner taboo names (secret appellations) to receive the protection of the Jade Dawn (a Daoist deity) and ultimately ascend through the nine celestial realms.

This scripture describes the esoteric Daoist practice of "flying to the Nine Dawns," detailing the ritual methods for communicating with stellar deities to obtain divine empowerment.

The text first introduces the "Nine Celestial Dawns" (nine high-ranking deities governing the celestial realm) who reside at Xuankui Star (the first star of the Big Dipper), radiating awe-inspiring majesty across all directions as they oversee human morality. When cultivating this method, the practitioner aligns with cosmic movements—dispelling demonic schemes and punishing those who violate cosmic principles. Devotees who practice sincerely receive divine protection, ultimately achieving physical transformation and celestial ascension.

The practice method involves: Standing facing the Ghost Gate direction, holding the breath three times, then stepping first with the left foot toward the Yinjing Star (the Big Dipper's second star) position before bringing the right foot to meet it. Yinjing Star, a crucial celestial body, governs human fortunes and the destiny of immortality seekers. This star spans five hundred and fifty li, composed of crystalline lapis lazuli containing jade trees, golden-winged birds, and longevity fruits granting fifty thousand years of life.

Yinjing Star features five gates, each radiating light across billions of li. Its five-colored jade towers house the "Northern Dawn Lord" (one of the Big Dipper deities), who wears a jade crown and feathered robe while holding a five-colored feathered scepter. Practitioners who know this deity's secret names ("Nurturing Infant," "Mysterious Upper Vessel," etc.) can establish spiritual resonance, enabling successful cultivation and eventual entry through the Five Stars' gates.

Practice steps: At the Yinjing Star position, place the left hand at one's natal star location while the right hand rests over the heart. Hold the breath five times, click teeth five times, and swallow saliva five times. With closed eyes, visualize the Northern Dawn Lord's form and silently recite the incantation. The mantra essentially petitions northern stellar spirits to bestow vital essence (Qi), harmonizing body and mind with celestial bodies. It declares: "On this auspicious day I tread the stars, opening heaven's gates to receive blessings—ultimately ascending to the Jade Purity realm to wander with the Nine Immortals."

The ritual concludes by turning left five times while facing one's natal star direction. This passage provides a complete record of Daoist "Star-Stepping" practice (a footwork method mimicking stellar movements), including detailed procedures and secret incantations.

This scripture describes a Daoist practice called "Flying Steps of the Nine Dawns" (Feibu Jiuchen), which explains how to align with celestial stars through specific stepping patterns and visualization. Practitioners must take special care never to step directly on the "Perfected Being Star" (Zhenren Xing), but rather on its adjacent "Supporting Star" (Bi Xing).

The Perfected Being Star governs celestial immortals in the heavenly court and is known as the "Minister of Works of Heaven." This star spans seven hundred seventy li in diameter, composed of crystal-clear glass, adorned with jade trees bearing golden fruits and inhabited by divine birds. Twelve gates radiate from it, each emitting light that illuminates ninety million li. At its center stands a yellow jade tower where resides the immortal "Lord of Immortal Blossoming Dawn" (Zhuxian Huachen Jun), who wears a flying dawn jeweled crown, dons azure feathered robes, and holds a green register (Daoist talisman).

The scripture emphasizes that when practicing the flying steps method, one must avoid the Perfected Being Star and instead stand upon the Supporting Star. The Northern Elder True Lord (Beilao Zhen Gong), a Daoist immortal, warns practitioners: "If you wish to ascend, do not offend the Perfected Being Star; if you wish to fly, do not defy celestial law; if you wish to become immortal, you must pay reverence to Lord Huachen." While cultivating on the Supporting Star, one should place the right hand over the heart, point the left hand northwestward, hold the breath nine times, tap the teeth nine times, swallow saliva nine times, and simultaneously visualize the form of Lord Huachen.

The text also includes an incantation: "The Supreme Subtlety Connects to Truth, Supporting Blossoming Dawn..."—a secret phrase for communicating with stellar energies. The scripture sternly warns that these methods and mantras must not be carelessly disclosed, lest seven generations of ancestors suffer celestial punishment. The entire practice must be performed at specific hours, coordinating breath, movement, visualization, and incantation.

This passage describes a Daoist practice for attaining supernatural abilities such as flight and invisibility through venerating the Mysterious Obscurity Star Lord (one of the Seven Stars of the Northern Dipper). Practitioners must perform specific ritual gestures facing this celestial body:

First, one petitions the Perfected Being (Zhenren) for three boons: the ability to soar through the skies, the power of invisibility, and ascension to the Northern Palace of Heaven. The adept then dons dragon-patterned feathered robes, brocade capes, and azure skirts before riding the Eight Luminosities Jeweled Chariot through the nine celestial layers, ultimately entering the heavenly palaces to sit alongside the Celestial Emperor.

The Mysterious Obscurity Star serves as Heaven's enforcer, governing the suppression of rebellion. It commands the spirits of the Nine Heavens and the Three Officials of the Northern Emperor (Daoist deities overseeing the underworld), while supervising all mortal affairs. This star spans eight hundred li in diameter, crafted from lapis lazuli crystal, with jade trees bearing crimson fruit where golden-winged birds roost. Its surface grows cinnabar immortality herbs—a single taste granting eighty million years of life. The star features three gates, each radiating light across vast distances. Vermilion towers house the Flying Canopy Dawn Lord (a stellar deity title) known as Lord of the Twisting Abyss Palace, who wears the Three Blossoms jeweled crown, dons cinnabar brocade flying robes, and wields the Commanding Numinous Scepter.

To attain flight, practitioners must first perform a specific ritual before the Mysterious Obscurity Star: place the right hand over the heart, point left fingers skyward, hold the breath nine times, click teeth three times, and swallow saliva thrice. Then, with closed eyes, visualize the Flying Canopy Dawn Lord while reciting an incantation. The mantra essentially conveys: "Through the authentic Daoist practice steps I conceal my form, mobilizing the power of the Seven Stars. Holding the Heavenly Balance (an epithet for the Northern Dipper), treading upon flying stars with left and right guardians attending, my might shakes the Ten Heavens (Daoist cosmological realms), first eliminating treacherous forces before vanquishing demonic entities."

After chanting, turn left three times, face the sky while holding the breath thrice, then pivot left to tread upon the Cinnabar Origin Star (another Northern Dipper deity), concluding with a right-footed step. The Cinnabar Origin Star governs mortal life-death registers and oversees the celestial rosters of the Nine Heavens' immortals.

This passage describes the celestial phenomena and cultivation methods associated with two important stars—Danyuan Star (丹元星) and the North Star (北极星). Danyuan Star, one of the Seven Stars of the Northern Dipper in Daoism, spans seven hundred and twenty li in circumference, constructed of lapis lazuli crystal. At its center grows a crimson divine tree bearing white fruits, where golden-winged birds perch. The golden essence produced here can be refined into immortal elixirs—a single dose extends life by seventy thousand years. The star has seven gates, each radiating light across vast distances. Upon it stands a pristine white tower inhabited by a perfected being known as the "Gang Shen" or "Golden Essence Seven Dawn Lord" (金魁七晨君), who wears a seven-jeweled crown and white brocade robes while holding a green bamboo slip recording immortal registers. Practitioners who know this perfected being's secret name can receive the star's power to aid their ascension practice.

The cultivation method involves placing the right hand over the heart while pointing leftward to heaven on Danyuan Star, holding the breath seven times, tapping teeth three times, and swallowing saliva thrice. With closed eyes, visualize the Seven Dawn Lord while silently reciting incantations to request flight to Danyuan Star and longevity, then complete seven star-steps before turning toward the North Star for further practice.

The North Star (called "Heaven's Grand Constant" in Daoism) governs immortal rank promotions and oversees the perfected beings of the Nine Heavens, mountain immortals of the Five Peaks, and all cultivators. Spanning seven hundred and seventy li, it too is made of lapis lazuli crystal, with a black divine tree at its center bearing white fruits where golden-winged birds dwell. The dark mushrooms (玄芝) and aqueous crystals (水瑛) growing here extend life by fifty thousand years per dose. Its eight gates surround a central dark jade tower housing the "Star-Step Perfected" (步纲真人), who records practitioners' merits and faults. Cultivation here requires specific stepping patterns (left foot first, then right) synchronized with breath techniques.

Both sections emphasize attaining the ability to traverse the Nine Heavens through star visualization, mantra recitation, and ritual pacing (步罡踏斗), coupled with breath regulation—ultimately achieving the immortal state of "flesh taking flight and bones turning weightless." The terms "treading the celestial order" (躡纪) and "pacing the star-steps" (步纲) refer to distinctive Daoist astral pacing techniques, while "flying skirts" (飞裙) and "feathered garments" (羽服) symbolize the celestial attire attained upon successful cultivation.

This scripture details the Daoist practice of "Flying Steps" (feibu), focusing on two divine beings: Lord Feihua and Lord Beigaichen.

Lord Feihua, whose full sacred name is Mingling Weichang Minghua (with the courtesy name Yuanyuan Yuanchang), resides in a jade tower at the Upper Primordial's apex. He wears a Flying Essence Crown adorned with floral patterns, robes of purple brocade that billow as if airborne, and holds a Nine-Dipper Jade Tablet. Practitioners who know this deity's secret appellation receive his protection. Through this practice, one may traverse celestial space and ascend through the Eight Gates. The method involves facing the North Star, placing the right hand over the heart while pointing the left toward the Golden Gate, holding the breath eight times, clicking the teeth three times, swallowing saliva thrice, visualizing Lord Feihua with closed eyes, and reciting specific incantations.

Lord Beigaichen, formally named Xuanshu Weizhuanguang (courtesy name Huiyuan Zhongming Tian Tu), dwells in a nine-tiered jade tower upon the Tian Guan (Celestial Pivot) star. Adorned with a Nine Primal Treasures Crown and nine-colored brocade robes, he holds the Radiance of Spirits scripture. Those initiated into his secret name gain celestial guardianship, enabling flight through the Great Void and ascension through the Single Gate. The practice requires facing the Tian Guan star with the left hand over the heart while forming mudras with the right.

The text vividly describes Tian Guan star—a nine-hundred-li sphere of lapis lazuli crystal governing cosmic movement. Within grow miraculous trees bearing sacred fruits, and golden-winged birds nest among them. A single radiant gate emits nine luminous beams reaching cosmic distances. The nine-tiered jade tower houses dragon-riding perfected beings (zhenren).

The cultivation techniques integrate physical postures (breath retention, teeth-clicking, saliva swallowing), deity visualization, and mantra recitation. These methods purportedly awaken aerial abilities, ultimately leading to the Daoist ideal of celestial immortality.

This scripture describes a Daoist practice of celestial pacing (a cultivation method involving specific footsteps, incantations, and visualizations), primarily focusing on veneration and cultivation techniques related to the Auxiliary Star among the Nine Stars of the Northern Dipper (a crucial constellation in Daoism).

The practitioner must first face the Earth Portal (a technical term denoting a specific direction) while briefly holding their breath, tapping their teeth three times, and swallowing saliva three times. Then, with closed eyes, they visualize Lord Bei Gai Chen (one of the Northern Dipper deities) residing upon the Celestial Barrier Star. Silently reciting an incantation that essentially states: "As heaven and earth revolve and constellations alternate, aligning with the Dao brings auspiciousness," the practitioner performs turning movements on the stellar positions—first pivoting the left foot, then advancing the right—while regulating their breath.

The text particularly emphasizes the significance of the Auxiliary Star. This star belongs to the Jade Emperor of Celestial Worthies, governing celestial and terrestrial divine affairs. Encircling nine hundred and ninety li in circumference, it is composed of lapis lazuli crystal, adorned with verdant trees and inscribed characters that emit nine kinds of sounds. The star features eight gates, each radiating four beams of light illuminating the Nine Heavens. Practitioners who know the secret names of the Imperial Lord (referring to the deity residing on this star) will receive his protection, enabling them to traverse the celestial void and enter within these eight gates.

The specific cultivation method involves: standing upon the Auxiliary Star's position, placing the right hand over the heart while pointing the left hand toward Mars (the Sparkling Deluder Star), holding the breath three times, tapping teeth three times, and swallowing saliva three times. Then, with closed eyes, one visualizes the Imperial Lord's form and silently recites his names, chanting an incantation to petition for the ability of celestial flight—to soar across the Canopy Star (another significant Daoist constellation) and ascend to the Purple Court (abode of immortals). Through this ritual, practitioners aspire to attain blessings and ultimately achieve immortal ascension.

This scripture describes an advanced cultivation method called "Flight of the Nine Dawn Stars," which explains how to establish a connection with the Bi Star (one of the seven stars of the Northern Dipper, also known as the "True Star of the Great Emperor") through specific steps, breathing techniques, and visualization, ultimately achieving celestial ascension.

The practitioner must first hold their breath for two cycles while facing the direction of Bi Star, turning their left foot toward the star and adjusting their right foot accordingly while regulating their breathing. Bi Star is the abode of the Great Emperor (a revered Daoist deity), measuring nine hundred and ninety li in diameter and composed of lapis lazuli crystal. Within it grow the Three Blossoms Treasure Trees, upon which the Jade Chapters of the Nine Heavens (sacred scriptures) naturally manifest. Golden phoenixes perch on the star, holding fire bells in their beaks that radiate the light of the Seven Luminaries (sun, moon, and five planets). By obtaining even a single breath of its immortal Qi, one can share in the true Dao with the Great Emperor.

The star has nine celestial gates, each emitting four beams of light that illuminate the eight directions. At its center stands a jade terrace and purple pavilion where the Three Yang Perfected Beings (high-ranking immortals) and the Primordial Dawn Lord (a stellar deity) reside. The Primordial Dawn Lord wears a flying jade crown and a dragon robe of the Nine Heavens, holding the Imperial Edict (a sacred document) while seated solemnly in the purple pavilion. Those who know this stellar deity's secret name gain the ability to become invisible and ascend through the Nine Heavens.

The specific practice method involves standing in the direction of Bi Star, placing the right hand over the heart and pointing the left hand toward the North Star (Polaris). Hold the breath for five cycles, tap the teeth three times, and swallow saliva seven times. Close the eyes and visualize the form of the Primordial Dawn Lord, then silently recite a specific incantation. The incantation essentially prays for union with the Dao, granting the ability to fly through the Nine Heavens and transform infinitely, ultimately achieving immortality and boundless freedom.

After completing these steps, the practitioner must hold their breath for seven cycles, turn toward the North Star, then return to the position of Yangming Star (the first star of the Northern Dipper). Following the Yu Steps (a Daoist walking technique), circle the nine stars nine times. Finally, return to the Bi Star position to sit in stillness, visualizing oneself enveloped in the light of the Nine Dawn Stars and riding the Celestial Net (cosmic energy) to ascend through the gates of the Nine Heavens in nine cycles. The entire process requires no repetition of incantations—simply maintain a natural state.

The method for cultivating the Supreme Flight Through Nine Dawns Jade Scripture (Taishang Feixing Jiuchen Yujing) is as follows: First, sit quietly in meditation, visualizing yourself suspended above a celestial star chart. Gently rub your eyes nine times each while silently reciting the Cosmic Incantation, tapping your teeth nine times. Then face the northwest direction and chant the following invocation:

"Most Exalted Nine Heavens Divine Spirits, Sovereign Lords of the Stellar Radiance, grant me the capacity to resonate with celestial movements and cultivate in harmony with seasonal transformations. Through the power of the Five Phases (Wuxing), may I attain the immortal path. Today I practice with sincere devotion, commanding the myriad spirits. Guardians of the Five Sacred Peaks (Wuyue) and Four Holy Rivers (Sidu), along with deities of the Three Realms (Heaven, Earth, and Water), come forth to protect my form. Let the sun emit lightning, the Great Yin (moon) exhale auspicious clouds, expel fierce beasts and malignant entities, and scatter ten thousand spectral creatures. May the poison-dragon that devours evil ghosts eradicate the roots of demonic obstructions. Those who plot against me shall face retribution; those who disturb me shall know vexation; those who aid me shall gain longevity; those who bless me shall achieve transcendence."

Next, visualize yourself: wearing a spiritual talisman at your waist, adorned with the seven stars of the Northern Dipper (Beidou), holding the Flowing Gold Fire Bell (a Daoist ritual instrument), enveloped in golden light. Your head is crowned with a celestial canopy (Huagai), your feet tread upon auspicious clouds, your mouth contains Heavenly Essence (Tianjing), and your hand grasps the Heavenly Pass (Tianguan, key to the celestial gates). Your body transforms at will, with the Five Phases (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) naturally generating one another. Using the Yu Steps (Yubu, a Daoist ritual gait), you soar through the nine celestial gates, freely entering and exiting the sacred realms of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing: Jade Clarity, Upper Clarity, and Supreme Clarity).

Conclude the practice by tapping your teeth three times and swallowing saliva fourteen times, completing the Nine Dawns cultivation. The optimal times for practice are specific dates in designated months: during the first, fourth, seventh, and tenth months (the first month of each season), choose the 5th or 9th day of the lunar month's first decade; in the second, fifth, eighth, and eleventh months, practice at noon on the 15th or 19th day; in the third, sixth, ninth, and twelfth months, select midnight on the 25th or 29th day of the lunar month's last decade. Perform the practice three times monthly (totaling 36 sessions yearly), corresponding to the 360 degrees of celestial revolution.

By persisting in this practice, your name will be recorded in the celestial registers of the Nine Heavens, exempting you from cosmic calamities. After nine years, you will ascend by treading the flying-star trajectories (Xinggangji). The scripture further notes that if simultaneously practicing the "Pacing the Celestial Guideline" (Bu Tiangang) method, one should first master the Nine Dawns technique before proceeding to Pacing the Guideline. Though their incantations differ, their foundational principles align—combining both accelerates ascension and secures special favor from the Northern Dipper's stellar lords (Xuandou).

The Great Subtle Emperor (a high-ranking Daoist deity) once transmitted to Imperial Clarity Cavern Perfection Lord a cultivation method called "Celestial Net Soaring Through Earthly Principles." This practice requires the adept to:

First visualize the Big Dipper (Mysterious Dipper), then connect with nine perfected deities (Nine Perfected) through specific star-stepping techniques (Ascending the Starry Chariot). Riding flying dragons, one traverses the Three Destinies (heavenly, earthly, and human destinies), transcends the cycle of three lifetimes, and stabilizes the Three Treasures (Jing, Qi, and Shen). Through this cultivation, practitioners avoid six calamities (Six Harms), conceal six yin pathogens (Six Yins), and enter six celestial principles (Six Principles).

During practice, one must visualize guarding the Celestial Hero Star to prolong life, preserve primordial Qi, and follow the Great Assistant Star Lord (a supporting star of the Dipper). In the alchemical chamber (cultivation space), the adept circulates the Golden Elixir, ascending to the Palace of Literary Brilliance (the constellation governing scholarship) while cycling through nine celestial revolutions. Twenty years of sustained practice grants registration among the Perfected of Upper Clarity.

Many believe simply gazing at the seven stars brings them closer to the Dao, unaware of the practice's true difficulty. Some Daoists only learn the physical star-stepping forms (Bugang) without understanding that if the hun and po souls won't follow the body in cultivation, it's because these souls fear the Dipper's formidable power and dare not ascend with the physical form. This leads to dispersal of the three hun souls and dissipation of the seven po souls - leaving only an empty shell performing the steps, unattended by divine spirits, making the effort futile.

For proper star-stepping practice:

1. First purify the heart-mind, eliminating worries and distractions

2. Circle three times while praying to the stars

3. Guide the two soul-spirits through the spiritual pass (energy channel) to reach the state of forgetting both self and objects

4. Maintain physical and mental purity, stepping as lightly as walking on void

Practice effects:

• First year: Avoidance of disasters
• Second year: Protection from warfare
• Third year: Escape from death
• Fourth year: Attainment of terrestrial immortality (basic immortal rank), with ten thousand evils unable to approach
• Continued practice brings boundless blessings: riding flying dragons, obtaining Taiji's immortal mushrooms, and receiving jade maidens bestowed by the Jade Emperor
• After fourteen years: Becoming a Perfected of Upper Clarity

Critical prohibitions:

• Star-stepping must follow straight stellar paths - never cut across celestial boundaries (called "violating the celestial net")
• Never tread on Perfected star positions
• Violations require removing one's hat and kowtowing in repentance

Ritual implements:

• Create a star-stepping chart on nine-chi long, six-chi wide silk
• Mark stars with blue ink, stepping paths with red
• Store in a pure box when not in use, presenting it with incense when needed
• Seven jade maidens and seven jade boys guard the practice
• Female practitioners must use deep crimson silk

Practice sequence:

1. First burn incense in the cultivation space

2. Suspend breath seven times while circling the Dipper's periphery three times

3. Begin at the Shadow Essence Star (fifth Dipper star), concluding at the Sunlight Star (third Dipper star)

4. Resume normal breathing before formally commencing star-stepping

(Note: "Three Destinies" refers to heavenly, earthly and human life courses; "three lifetimes" indicates past, present and future rebirths; "Three Treasures" denotes the essential human components of Jing, Qi and Shen)

This scripture describes the Daoist ritual practice of "Flying Through the Nine Dawns" (步罡踏斗), where adepts communicate with celestial bodies through specific stepping patterns and incantations.

The practitioner first faces the Yang Brilliance Star (one of the Nine Stars of the Northern Dipper in Daoism), holds their breath, and silently recites: "Great Kui Star Lord and Wenchang Star Lord of Yang Brilliance, may my soul follow the celestial axis in motion." After reciting, they step first with the left foot on the Yang Brilliance Star position, then advance the right foot to the Yin Essence Star position, silently chanting: "North Star Lord and Xuanji Star Lord of Yin Essence, may my soul cross the divine river."

Next, stepping onto the North Star position, they recite: "The heavenly radiance of the North Star encircles the Mystic Pivot; may my soul reach the Mystic Pass." Then, placing the right foot on the Celestial Gate Star position, the left foot steps forward to align with the right, allowing the practitioner to exhale and continue with a longer incantation. If breath-holding becomes unbearable, they may exhale at the position of the Elixir Origin Star.

The main incantation conveys: "The Five Phases generate and restrain, the Seven Stars shine, and the celestial axis commands awe. The Auxiliary Star strengthens, the Assistant Star wanes, while the Nine Heavenly True Lords, the Supreme Elder Lord (Taishang Laojun), the Supreme Ultimate (Taiji), the Grand Tenuity (Taiwei), and the Jade Emperors of the Three Palaces jointly protect. As heaven and earth revolve, may my soul follow, lifting me to immortality. Bathed in true radiance, my name inscribed in the immortal register, the Jade Gate opens—I ride a dragon, ascending to shine with the sun and moon. Roaming the Shangqing Heaven, clad in emerald robes, ringing bells, stepping left on lightning and right on thunder. Earthly evils dare not approach; malicious thoughts that gaze upon me shall be severed. Jade Maidens escort me by decree, as my soul and body unite in flight."

For the reverse stepping method, one halts at the Celestial Gate Star position, facing the North Star and silently reciting: "Supreme Primordial Star Lord, Canopy Star Lord, and Purple Numen Star Lord, the Jade Chamber of the North conceals transformative essence. The Mystic Terrace of Grand Tenuity, the Jade City of Nine Truths—may I ascend to immortal realms, entering the cloud courts. Retracing the celestial axis revives the soul; riding a dragon into the Splendid Palace, I accomplish the Dao. Adorned left with jade, right with golden bells, girded with tiger sash and dragon skirt, summoning celestial troops. Borne by the Three Pure Breaths (三素之气), I soar to Shangqing."

After reciting, the practitioner holds their breath, lifts the left foot to step on the North Star position, the right foot on the Elixir Origin Star position, then the left foot on the Mystic Darkness Star position, before aligning the right foot with the left and bowing to the True Man Star. Finally, exhaling, they silently chant: "Supreme Ultimate Nine Essences, Exalted True Ones of the High Sovereign, who traverse the primordial clarity of the Mystic Yin—nurture and guide me to delight in the immortal path. May the Jade Terrace suddenly open, the Golden Hall’s eight gates unfold. Grant me immortal robes of crimson dragons and azure skirts, to assist the Purple Tenuity Emperor and the Sage Monarch. Mounting ten flying dragons, beneath the Mystic Canopy’s radiant numen, my name ascends the immortal register, shining with the sun and moon."

This passage describes the "Flying Through the Nine Dawns" ritual of pacing the stars (bugang tadou) in Daoist practice, a cultivation method that combines specific footsteps with breath control and incantations to commune with celestial energies.

The practitioner first holds their breath and steps in a precise sequence: left foot on the Assistant Star (the seventh star of the Big Dipper), right foot on the Yin Essence Star (second star), then advances the left foot onto the Yang Brightness Star (first star), finally bringing both feet together. At this point, slight breath adjustment is permitted while silently reciting the mantra. The incantation conveys that through the power of stellar movements, one may stabilize the hun and po souls, achieve physical and mental well-being, and ultimately ascend to the celestial realms. The chant also describes visions of celestial beings within the Golden Tower - the Grand Imperial Lord, Immortal Mother, and Immortal Elder - robed in radiant garments, holding ritual implements, and reciting sacred scriptures.

Next comes the "Reverse Pacing Method": holding one's breath, the practitioner begins at the Yang Brightness Star and circles counterclockwise around the Dipper's perimeter three times. After adjusting the breath, another incantation is recited to beseech the Seven Luminaries (sun, moon, and five planets) for assistance in achieving immortal ascension.

The ritual continues with complex footwork: left foot on Yang Brightness Star, right foot on Yin Essence Star, then right foot steps onto the Mysterious Darkness Star (fourth star), left foot onto the Cinnabar Origin Star (third star), followed by right foot on the North Pole Star, left foot on the Celestial Gate Star, concluding with the right foot stepping forward in ceremonial salute. During breath adjustment, the practitioner chants to invoke the Dipper's rotation for celestial ascent, requesting passage between heavenly realms and enrollment in the immortal registers.

To complete the ceremony, both feet leap onto the Yang Brightness Star while the right hand touches the heart and the left hand points toward the Mysterious Darkness Star. Holding the breath three times, the practitioner clicks teeth twenty-one times and swallows saliva twenty-seven times in the "Grasping the Dipper" posture. A final silent prayer requests protection from the Great Spirit of Yang Brightness Star.

Through this intricate combination of astral footsteps, breath mastery, sacred utterances, and ritual gestures, the ceremony facilitates communion with stellar energies for celestial transcendence. Terms like "seven transformations" (qi bian) and "three celestial bonds" (san gang) represent specific cultivation stages and cosmic principles in Daoist terminology.

This scripture describes a complete Daoist ritual for flight cultivation, comprising three key stages: Aligning with the Dipper (judou), Ascending the Chief Star (pankui), and Receiving the Authentic (jiezhen). The practitioner must wear specific ritual garments and implements (emerald flying robes, tiger-patterned waistband, jade talismans, and lotus crown) that symbolize the authority to commune with divine beings.

The initial stage requires the cultivator to tread upon crimson mist (symbolizing immortal Qi) while reciting sacred verses to obtain esoteric cultivation methods. Through repeated microcosmic orbit circulation and communion with the Northern Dipper Star Lords, one attains a state of selflessness, ultimately realizing the aspiration to ascend to Shangqing Heaven (the highest Daoist celestial realm). Should malevolent forces interfere during this process, the deities will punish them with thunderous winds.

The "Ascending the Chief Star" phase involves standing upon the Yinjing Star (one of the Seven Stars of the Dipper), with the left hand placed over the heart and the right finger pointing toward the Star of Authentic Beings. This is coordinated with breath retention, teeth clicking, and saliva swallowing techniques. The accompanying incantation describes the Yinjing Star Lord adorned in magnificent robes, who imparts secret cultivation methods to help practitioners control their seven corporeal souls (in Daoist physiology humans possess three ethereal hun souls and seven physical po souls). By refining worldly attachments, one achieves the state where soul and spirit guard the body, enabling ascension to Shangqing.

The final "Receiving the Authentic" ceremony takes place upon the Assistant Star (a subsidiary Dipper star), involving four prostrations toward the Star of Authentic Beings. The chant describes the Supreme Nine Essences of Taiji (highest deities) governing the Three Realms and harmonizing Yin-Yang, through which practitioners attain spiritual rebirth. The deities appear resplendent in dragon-embroidered phoenix garments and tiger-patterned flying skirts, girded with divine talismans that enable free travel through the Nine Heavens.

This integrated ritual system—combining stellar veneration, deity visualization, and specialized breathing techniques with physical movements—aims to transcend mundane existence and achieve the carefree state where "all intentions flow effortlessly without obstruction." Each stage emphasizes both internal refinement (controlling one's soul-spirit complex) and external divine assistance, embodying the Daoist principle of dual cultivation.

This passage describes a Daoist ritual practice called "Pacing the Dipper" (Budou), detailing how specific footsteps, hand gestures, and incantations can invoke divine protection.

First, the practitioner must ascend to "Bikui" (one star in the Big Dipper constellation) to worship the "Spiritual Lord" (Lingjun, a Daoist deity). Through this ceremony, one may receive the "Cinnabar Writ" (Danshu, sacred scripture) and obtain the opportunity for immortality. Practitioners aspire to achieve the "Three-Five" state (a Daoist term referring to the Three Dantian and Five Qi), enabling them to traverse the eight wildernesses in flight, naturally refine their five viscera, and become superior-grade flying immortals.

The text then details specific practice steps: both feet must step on the "Dark Mysterious Star" (Xuanmingxing, another Big Dipper star), with the right hand placed over the heart while the left hand points toward the "Cinnabar Origin Star" (Danyuanxing). The practitioner then holds the breath three times, taps the teeth twenty-one times, and swallows saliva three times. This ritual, called "Subtle Pacing of the Dipper" (Budou wei), is accompanied by specific incantations.

The incantation roughly translates as: praying for the protective radiance of the Cavern Heaven, with Qi filling heaven and earth, allowing free transformation of the physical form. The practitioner seeks to ascend the celestial web and enter the Purple Court (heavenly palace), gaining abilities of invisibility and transformation. Simultaneously, they request deities to punish those harboring malicious intentions toward them.

The scripture also references teachings from the "Supreme Ultimate True Scripture" (Taiji Zhenjing): to obtain transformative powers, one must memorize specific divine names. When practicing "Pacing the Dark Mysterious" (Buxuanming) or invisibility cultivation, these sacred names must be held in mind.

The final section describes another ritual called "Treading the Subtle Records" (Nieji wei): stepping onto the "Cinnabar Origin Star" with both feet, placing the left hand over the heart while pointing right hand toward Polaris, followed by the same breath-holding, teeth-tapping, and saliva-swallowing sequence. The incantation primarily praises the "Supreme Nine Platforms" (Taishang Jiutai, highest deities) and the "Cinnabar Origin Mysterious Records" (Danyuan Xuanji, divine principles), praying for ascension to immortality and the attainment of invisibility and transformative powers.

These cultivation methods embody the Daoist tradition of pursuing longevity and supernatural abilities through stellar worship, breath regulation, and ritual incantations.

This scripture describes the Daoist ritual practice of "Soaring Through the Nine Dawn Stars," which involves specific steps, hand gestures, and incantations to commune with stellar deities. The practitioner follows a prescribed sequence to tread upon the North Star (Beiji), Celestial Pass Star (Tianguan), Auxiliary Star (Fuxing), and Assistant Star (Bixing) – all significant constellations in the Daoist cosmology of the Northern Dipper (Ursa Major).

When stepping upon the North Star, one places the right hand over the heart while pointing the left hand toward the Celestial Pass Star, holding the breath three times, tapping the teeth three times, and swallowing saliva three times. The silent incantation expresses: "Gazing upward at the Purple Tenuity North Star, I beseech the protection of the Most Authentic Immortals (Taizhen), hoping to receive the secret scriptures (Yinshu) of Daoism, transcend worldly dust, and ascend to immortality. May any who wish me harm reap their own misfortune."

Next, when treading upon the Auxiliary Star, the practitioner holds breath once, taps teeth three times, and swallows saliva once. The silent prayer requests the Star Lord's blessing to bestow secret texts, enabling travel through the Three Realms (sanjie) and enrollment in the register of immortals.

Finally, stepping upon the Assistant Star follows the same pattern – holding breath once, teeth tapping three times, and one saliva swallow. The invocation petitions the Celestial Worthy of Supreme Emptiness (Taixu Tianzun) for the gift of longevity methods.

This entire ceremony, known as "Pacing the Dipper and Treading the Stars" (bugang tadou), combines breath control with visualization techniques to communicate with stellar deities, seeking disaster relief and ascension to immortality. These practices embody the Daoist principle of "cosmic resonance" (tianren ganying), where specific rituals create correspondences with celestial powers to receive divine empowerment.

This passage describes a Daoist cultivation method called "Soaring Through the Nine Dawns." During practice, the adept visualizes the divine "Jade Emperor of the Dao" residing in the Muddy Pellet Palace (the crown point at the top of the head), while rapid breathing techniques activate primordial Qi to surge skyward. Practitioners gather energy at the Hall of Light (the brow region between eyebrows) to strengthen their fetal essence (innate Jing) and nourish their ethereal and corporeal souls.

The method involves specific visualizations: drawing solar essence through the left eye and lunar essence through the right, envisioning the body enveloped in radiant flames ten thousand zhang high, clad in celestial robes of golden threads and jade, with an immortal's skeletal structure symbolized by a heavenly girdle, and wearing a magnificent crown. The scripture mentions that adepts will receive "esoteric texts" (secret transmissions), granting passage through celestial checkpoints to achieve ascension and command over myriad spirits. All blessings will accumulate like mountains.

Practice should be conducted facing north while holding these esoteric texts. Alternatively, one may observe celestial phenomena in accordance with the scripture without complete memorization. Seasonal variations bear distinct names: "Treading the Three Guides" in spring, "Ascending the Six Records" in summer, "Traversing the Six Harmful Forces" in autumn, and "Mounting the Six Severances" in winter—each corresponding to specific stellar alignments and seasonal cultivation techniques.