《靈寶領教濟度金書》Vol. 276

The Lingbao Lingjiao Jidu Jinshu (Precious Scripture for Salvation Through Lingbao Teachings) records three important cultivation talismans (Fulu) and their methods of application. These talismans were transmitted by the eminent Song Dynasty Daoist Ning Quanzhen and compiled by Lin Lingzhen, primarily used in Zhaijiao (purification rituals) for the salvation of departed souls.

Before formally inscribing the talismans, the ritual master must begin preparations seven or three days in advance. First, they must purify body and mind, enter a dedicated meditation chamber (Jing), and sit facing east, undergoing specific rites to cleanse themselves and transform their Shen (spirit). Three key talismans are to be inscribed: the Taiye Lianxing Fu (Great Liquid Refining Form Talisman), the Jinye Lianxing Fu (Golden Liquid Refining Form Talisman), the Jinye Lianshen Fu (Golden Liquid Refining Spirit Talisman), and the Huoling Fu (Fire Bell Talisman). After completing these, the master must first ingest them personally while reciting the Duren Jing (Scripture of Salvation) once before proceeding to inscribe other talismans according to ritual protocol.

The method for using the Taiye Lianxing Fu involves forming the "Ziwen" hand seal (a specific finger gesture) while reciting the incantation:

"The Great Liquid refines my form, uniting me with the Dao. It opens the Three Luminaries (sun, moon, stars) as the root of heavenly truth. This power is boundless, without beginning or end—it subdues demonic forces like the Yuanhuang Nine Uglies and connects to the Crimson Palace (heart cavity)."

The incantation mentions purple clouds rising and riding six dragons, guiding the Qi of water and fire to circulate through the Three Dantian (energy centers), allowing the Shen to return to Yang brightness and naturally merge with the Dao. After the recitation, the practitioner faces the sun, inhaling solar essence in nine breaths and swallowing it into the Dantian (one inch below the navel). Each recitation is paired with three inhalations and swallows. Visualize the sun’s true Qi forming a radiant wheel in the Dantian. The talisman is then inscribed on thin paper, after which three more breaths of solar essence are drawn into the talisman before it is burned to ashes and ingested.

The Jinye Lianxing Fu follows a similar method, using the Ziwen hand seal with the incantation:

"Golden Liquid refines the form like a galloping golden steed, harmonizing the water and fire Qi within to achieve purity."

The chant emphasizes that cultivation enables resonance with the Three Primordials (Heaven, Earth, and Water Officials), gathers the Qi of the Five Organs, and harnesses the power of the Six Ding Divine Generals. Like the previous method, it requires drawing solar Qi for inscription and ingestion.

The Taishang Lianshen Fu (Supreme Refining Spirit Talisman) employs the "Chouwen" hand seal, with an incantation focused on mobilizing the Qi of the Nine Heavens and the Bagua (Eight Trigrams) directions. Through Gangbu (cosmic stepping), the practice unifies internal and external energies. The chant invokes the power of the Three Platforms stars (key stars of the Big Dipper) and the Zi Dou (another name for the Dipper), purifying heart-fire, dispelling toxic influences, and attaining the natural state of the "Great Cavern" (supreme cultivation realm). The method for drawing Qi and inscribing the talisman mirrors the previous two.

These talismanic practices emphasize the correspondence between heaven and humanity. Through specific incantations, hand seals, breath regulation, and visualization, they guide the circulation and transformation of celestial and earthly Qi within the body, ultimately achieving unity with the Dao.

This scripture outlines a complete Daoist fire-based cultivation and talismanic ritual. First, the practitioner forms mudras (specific hand gestures) facing the sun's direction, inhales nine breaths divided into three swallows, while visualizing nine solar rays entering the Dantian (energy center in the lower abdomen). Then turning south, they absorb the southern fire Qi and swallow it, simultaneously forming the Li trigram hand seal.

Next comes the incantation summoning southern fire deities, invoking the Red Emperor (Southern Celestial Sovereign), the Lord of Mars (Yinghuo Xingjun), Generals Bing and Ding (fire element commanders), and other fire department deities, petitioning them to purify body and mind while refining one's true form. After completing the mantra, three more mouthfuls of southern fire Qi are swallowed.

Subsequently, one must draw the "Spirit Refining Talisman" (Lianshen Fu) with cinnabar on yellow paper. Before drawing, sit quietly to regulate breath, visualizing crimson light pouring from the crown into the brush and inkstone, while seeing two three-inch-tall fire deities manifest before the eyes. Maintain the contemplation of the Three Platforms stars (Daoist guardian stars) illuminating the entire body. While drawing the talisman, hold the breath and maintain hand seals, then consume the ashes after burning the completed talisman.

The final section contains esoteric mantras including nineteen repetitions of "Fire Bell, Fire Bell" and other secret phrases, summoning fire department deities to assist in refining the soul and achieving ascension. The repeated phrase "urgently, urgently, according to ordinance" (jiji rulüling) conveys immediate imperative force. This integrated ritual combines breath regulation, visualization practices, and talismanic application—core Daoist cultivation methods—to harness the power of the Southern Fire Virtue True Lord for physical-spiritual purification and alchemical transformation.

This passage describes a talismanic ritual from the Lingbao tradition (one of Daoism's major schools), primarily used for soul salvation, exorcism, and protection. Here's a section-by-section explanation:

Regarding phrases like "Great Fire-Bell Void" and other incantations:

These are esoteric mantras summoning divine protection. Each paired earthly branch (Yin, Wu, etc.) represents celestial powers from different directions. For instance, "Great Fire-Bell Void" combined with the Yin position invokes eastern deities to oversee life; "Five Emperors Guard the Soul" refers to the Five Directional Celestial Rulers protecting the spirit; "Three Platforms Bestow Blessings" indicates the Three Star Lords of the Big Dipper granting fortune. The entire chant petitions heavenly beings to expel malevolent ghosts, protect the living, and liberate wandering souls.

Ritual Procedure:

After completing talismanic cultivation, first recite the Scripture on Salvation (Duren Jing, a foundational Daoist text) once, then draw the talismans in sequence. Special emphasis is placed on creating both "Salvation from Suffering" and "Longevity" talismans (used respectively for soul salvation and life extension).

Cultivation Method:

Enter the meditation chamber (Jing - a purified Daoist practice space), sit upright facing east, and concentrate on visualizing the Primordial Heavenly King (Daoism's supreme deity) descending on a lion throne amidst the void, flanked by attendant Perfected Beings. Silently bow nine times while mentally reporting the talismanic work. Visualize golden light from the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning radiating from your crown, exhale auspicious Qi to blend with cinnabar and talismanic materials, making the talisman glow with golden radiance.

Mudras and Incantations:

Form the Lingbao hand-seal with the left hand (a Daoist mudra with the "Zhen" trigram finger position), silently recite: "Jade Birth from Long Mulberry..." This chant essentially prays for elixir radiance to illuminate and elevate souls, making the talisman eternally luminous, stabilizing the altar, and ensuring the salvation of wandering spirits.

Final Steps:

Draw nine mouthfuls of vibrant eastern Qi (Daoist energy absorption technique), visualize it transforming into solar hues, then exhale onto the talismanic materials and cinnabar inkstone before drawing the "True Talisman for Salvation from Suffering" (for liberating souls). The bracketed content contains the talisman's secret characters, symbolizing divine fusion, spiritual refinement, and liberation of souls from the Ninefold Netherworld.

Note: The phrase "Urgently, according to the Shangqing Fire-Bell Command" is a standard talismanic conclusion, indicating immediate enactment under the Shangqing tradition (a major Daoist lineage) mandate.

This scripture primarily describes Daoist rituals for the salvation of deceased souls, incorporating incantations and the celestial bureaucracy. The text begins by enumerating various deities who govern life and death: the Director of Fate (Siming), Director of Records (Silu), Director of Merits (Sigong), and Director of Executions (Sisha), who collectively oversee both the yin and yang realms. These deities respectively manage the movement of clouds and the primordial Qi (vital energy) of the Five Directions, all acting in accordance with the decrees of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing), the highest Daoist deities, to assist in the salvation of souls.

The term "Northern Fengdu" (Beifeng) refers to Mount Luofeng in the north, which Daoism considers the administrative center for spirits. "Ninefold Darkness" (Jiuyou) denotes the deepest layers of hell, while "Spring's Bend" (Quanqu) is another name for the Yellow Springs path. The scripture emphasizes that through the power of talismanic incantations (Fulu), the sins of deceased souls can be absolved, freeing them from infernal suffering.

The incantation section is issued in the name of the "Primordial Highest Sage" (Yuanshi Shangzun, i.e., the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning). It mentions the "Golden Register" (Jinlu) as an important salvific document in Daoism, while the "White Slips" (Baojian) represent underworld records of transgressions. By reciting these scriptures, the karmic burdens of souls can be dissolved, with the Realized Being Who Relieves Suffering (Jiuku Zhenren) expunging their punishments, enabling their ascension.

The ritual instructions describe specific hand seals (mudras) for drawing talismans: the left index finger presses the base of the thumb while the thumb lightly touches the root of the ring finger. This gesture, called the "Eternal Life Numinous Talisman" (Changsheng Lingfu), is said to mobilize the yin-yang energies of heaven and earth.

The concluding section lists numerous divine titles, such as the Celestial Worthy Who Extracts from Suffering (Bazui Tianzun) who delivers souls, the Peach Health deity (Taokang) who governs lifespan, and the Eight Numinous Lords (Baling Jun) representing the eight directional guardian spirits. The text underscores how the harmonious interaction of heaven, earth, and humanity (the Three Powers), combined with the movements of the sun, moon, and five planets, ultimately enables souls to achieve salvation and ascend to the immortal realms.

This scripture describes a Daoist ritual for the salvation of departed souls, involving sacred incantations and the invocation of high-ranking deities. The key elements include:

First, it enumerates several deities governing life and death, such as the Emperor of Yin-Yang Southern Prosperity (a supreme divinity presiding over cosmic transformations) and the Life-Granting Emperor of the Supreme Ultimate (the divine ruler overseeing the bestowal of life). These deities collectively form the sacred power source for the salvation rite.

The core incantation states: Through the Crimson Jade Script (sacred vermilion documents), the supreme Primordial Heavenly Worthy (Yuanshi Tianzun, the highest Daoist deity) and the Five Directional Thearchs can absolve all karmic transgressions committed by the deceased during their lifetime, terminating underworld punishments. The soul's ethereal and corporeal spirits shall ascend respectively to the Nine Heavens and the Vermilion Palace (a southern purgatorial realm in Daoist cosmology), with all celestial beings witnessing this salvation process.

During ritual performance, the priest must form a specific mudra (left thumb pressing below the index fingernail) while inscribing the fulu (talismanic script). Upon completion, the priest should ingest the cinnabar from the brush tip. When liberating souls, silent prayers are recited while visualizing the cinnabar transforming into crimson light piercing the heavens to guide the soul's ascent.

The "Ascension and Life-Transcending Talisman" requires preliminary steps: burning incense in meditation while visualizing the jeweled radiance from Mount Jade Capital (the celestial paradise in central heaven) enveloping one's body. The priest silently recites the Scripture of the Primordial Cosmic Calendar (Yuandong Yuli, an essential Daoist text), forms the Jade Purity Mudra, then channels golden light through the brush from the Northwestern Heavenly Gate (celestial portal) to inscribe the talisman.

The concluding verses emphasize this talisman's power to command demonic realms, pardon the underworld, sever death's roots, and allow the departed to reconstruct their form in the Eastern Well (purification site), ultimately transcending samsara to ascend to immortal realms. After completing the talisman, the priest must recite the Jade Calendar Chapter again and gather qi from the Heavenly Gate with a final mudra to conclude the ritual.

This passage describes the specific procedures for creating Fulu (talismans and registers) during the Jidu (salvation of souls) rituals performed by the Lingbao school (one of Daoism's major lineages) of Daoism.

First, the ritual master must face northwest, burn incense, and silently recite prayers while visualizing the descent of the Three Plain Qi (referring to the primordial energies of azure, white, and purple). Then they silently chant the secret names of the Three Heavens nine times each, simultaneously drawing in Qi and exhaling it onto the talismanic brush. When inscribing the talisman, they form the Yuqing Hand Seal (a specific mudra) to create the "Jade Purity Three Heavens Precious Register."

This particular talisman has three alternate names: Divine Empyrean White Slip, Jade Purity Three Heavenly Lords, and Upper Origin Jade Slip. After completing the inscription, the secret names must be recited nine more times while again exhaling Qi onto the talisman.

The next step involves creating the "Jade Purity Jade Slip True Talisman": reciting the Jade Calendar Chapter (a specific scripture), forming the Yuqing Hand Seal, and drawing Qi from the Celestial Gate (the Daoist conceptual entrance to the heavens) in the northwest to exhale onto the talisman.

Following this comes the creation of the "Jade Purity Golden Slip True Talisman": forming the Shangqing Hand Seal (another mudra), reciting the Jade Calendar Chapter, and drawing Qi from the Celestial Gate to exhale onto the talisman.

The final procedure is creating the "Middle Origin Golden Script Precious Edict." For rituals targeting specific deceased individuals, their birth details must be inscribed; for universal salvation rituals, a fixed format is used. During creation, the master faces northwest to burn incense and pray while visualizing the Nine Heavenly Sovereigns (one of Daoism's highest pantheons) in their resplendent imperial robes. They silently recite the Nine Heavens Numinous Chapter once, draw in nine-colored luminous Qi to exhale onto the talismanic brush, and form the Yuqing Hand Seal to inscribe the edict. After completion, further prayers are offered while exhaling Qi onto the completed document.

The parenthetical content in the scripture contains various incantations to be written on the talismans, all generally expressing prayers for the elimination of sins, salvation of souls, and attainment of rebirth.

This scripture is a secret talismanic text used by the Lingbao tradition of Daoism for the salvation of departed souls, comprising three main components:

First is the "Divine Empyrean Mandate," describing the celestial decree issued by the True Kings of the Shenxiao Palace, dispatching Immortal Official Han to refine and liberate the souls. The phrase "capturing demons and subduing specters" refers to vanquishing malevolent spirits of the underworld, while "opening the gates of confinement" signifies unlocking the barriers of the netherworld to allow the salvation of the "three Hun souls" (Daoist belief holds that humans possess three Hun and seven Po souls). Here, the "Cinnabar Chamber" denotes the Dantian (energy center) in the human body, and the "Three Paths" represent the Dao of Heaven, Earth, and Humanity.

Next comes the "Inner Sound Command of the Purple Mansion of the Nine Heavens," employing mystical incantations to mobilize Yin-Yang energies. The phrase "refining Kan and Li" borrows from the Yi Jing (Book of Changes), where Kan (Water) and Li (Fire) trigrams symbolize the harmonization of Yin and Yang, while "unblocking the Three Fields" refers to the free flow of energy through the upper, middle, and lower Dantian (energy centers). The "Iron City" and "Frozen Pool" represent places of torment in hell—through the power of these talismans and incantations, such instruments of punishment are destroyed, granting liberation to the souls.

The final sections, the "Jade Tablets of the Nine Netherworlds" and the "White Tablets of the Nine Netherworlds," are official documents addressed to the underworld authorities, written in esoteric language (with deciphered characters in parentheses). They invoke the illumination of the "Three Lights" (sun, moon, and stars) upon the dark realms and the salvation of souls through the "Nine Qi" (nine primordial energies), demanding that underworld officials immediately release the designated souls without delay. The "Nine Layers" refer to the nine levels of hell, while the "Nine Perfected" denote realized immortals.

Each incantation concludes with the urgent command "Swiftly, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances," emphasizing immediate execution akin to a legal decree. The entire ritual embodies the Daoist religious concept of communicating with heaven and earth through Fulu (talismans and registers) and incantations, utilizing Yin-Yang energies to deliver souls from suffering.

This scripture primarily documents the Lingbao School of Daoism's methods for using three jade tablets (the Earth Official Jade Tablet, Water Official Jade Tablet, and Three Qi Radiance Talisman) along with the Soul-Liberation Talisman to deliver deceased souls.

The Earth Official Jade Tablet section describes harnessing the power of the Wind-Marsh Cavern Void (referring to the dark realms of the underworld) to sever the "earthly roots" (the bonds tying souls to the underworld) through the Vajrayana method (a powerful esoteric Buddhist practice, here signifying formidable spiritual power), thereby relieving the suffering of souls in the netherworld. The Water Official Jade Tablet, meanwhile, employs the purifying forces of Yanghua's True Unity (pure Yang Qi) and the Twelve Subtle Wisdoms (twelve forms of wisdom) to liberate souls from the Dark Capital (the underworld), enabling their ascent to the heavenly realms.

The crafting of the Three Qi Radiance Talisman requires first burning incense and offering prayers, followed by visualization (contemplation) of the Three Treasures Sovereign (the highest deities in Daoism) sending a divine youth bearing a precious casket, infusing the talisman with the Three Qi (the vital energies of the Primordial Beginning, Numinous Treasure, and Dao-Virtue—the Three Pure Ones). The text mentions invoking the power of the Limitless Great Dao to disperse the foul energies of the Blood Lake (a pool of blood in hell) with radiant pearl light, guiding souls to ascend to heaven.

The final Soul-Liberation Talisman requires chanting an incantation to summon the assistance of the Jade Pure Primordial Heavenly Worthy (the foremost of the Three Pure Ones) and the Lords of the Nine Darknesses (underworld deities) in delivering the deceased. The incantation emphasizes breaking through the barriers of the Three Realms, freeing souls from the underworld so that even the Seven Ancestors (generations of forebears) may attain deliverance. Before inscribing the talisman, one must also gather the Golden Light Qi from the Celestial Gate (the golden spiritual energy at the heavenly gate) and blow it onto the brush tip to enhance its potency.

These rituals exemplify Daoist religious practices that employ talismans (fulu), incantations, and visualization techniques to invoke divine power for the salvation of departed souls.

After completing the talismanic inscription (Fulu), recite the "Great Lofty Chant of the Three Heavens" once more while gathering the vital Qi (energy) of eastern growth—symbolizing the force of life—and exhaling it onto the talismanic paper. Then chant again, drawing the flourishing Qi of the south to imbue the talisman. Following this, offer this invocation:

"By the authority of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing: Jade Pure, Upper Pure, and Grand Pure) and the Five Phases (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water), I act under the command of the Most High Celestial Worthy Who Salvages Suffering (a Daoist deity of salvation)."

Once the prayer is finished, gather another breath of the eastern growth Qi, then draw in auspicious violet Qi and infuse it into the talisman. Visualize the talisman radiating golden light in all directions, dazzlingly brilliant. Continue chanting:

"By the decree of the Jade Pure (foremost of the Three Pure Ones), all wandering souls are universally saved. A single beam of celestial light erases all sins. Swiftly, as by divine law!

By the decree of the Divine Empyrean (a Daoist celestial realm), this command descends through the Nine Heavens. Celestial soldiers and divine generals, obey this talisman upon sight. Urgently, by the command of the Most Exalted Jade Pure True King of the Divine Empyrean!"

This is the incantation for crafting the "Jade Pure Treasure Talisman to Shatter Hell." It begins with praise:

"O Most Sacred Divine Beings, Most Sincere Perfected Ones—you are descendants of the Primal Sovereign (a Daoist deity) and inheritors of the Supreme Elder (Laozi)."

Then it proceeds to salvation:

"Countless ancestors and suffering souls, through the Great Dharma of the Celestial Worthy, may you be liberated across ten cycles of rebirth.

The Crimson Texts (sacred Daoist scriptures) are inscribed, proclaiming to the underworld.

Once the Jade Scripts (celestial documents) arrive, the Iron Citadel (hell) crumbles.

The talisman’s radiance illuminates the dark realms.

Blades transform into jade trees, swords into gem-studded groves.

Lotus blooms emerge from flames; ice and snow dissolve.

The Three Paths (of hell), Five Sufferings, and Eight Calamities—all are transcended."

The incantation further describes the talisman’s power:

"Demon kings and underworld officials kneel in submission.

By the decree of the Upper Pure (one of the Three Pure Ones), action is immediate."

After this chant, gather Qi from the northwest and exhale it onto the brush tip before inscribing the talisman.

The talisman bears six sets of sacred characters (each a potent esoteric phrase), including:

"By the Divine Empyrean Jade Pure, the Frozen Courts of Suffering are illuminated;

The depths of the dark prisons are overturned."

It concludes with urgency:

"May the souls swiftly depart hell—immediately, by the command of the True King of the Divine Empyrean!"

Once the talisman is completed, gather another breath of eastern growth Qi and southern flourishing Qi, infusing them into the talisman while visualizing golden light manifesting.

(Note: This scripture meticulously documents the Daoist ritual for crafting a hell-shattering salvation talisman, integrating Qi absorption, incantation, and visualization—key elements of Daoist Zhaijiao purification rites and Keyi liturgies.)

This scripture describes a Daoist ritual for the salvation of departed souls, comprising three key elements: incantations (zhouyu), talismanic registers (fulu), and visualization practices (cunxiang).

The passage begins with a salvation incantation that conveys: Within the dark abyss of the Nine Netherworlds, a radiant light suddenly appears. This luminosity penetrates all nine layers of hell, shatters adamantine walls, pacifies tempestuous winds and raging fires, transforming the sea of flames into cooling pools. All instruments of torment—flaming chariots, boiling cauldrons, bronze pillars, and executioner's blades—cease their operation. The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, one of the highest Daoist deities) issues a decree of pardon, commanding the immediate release of all souls—whether guilty or innocent. All deities of the Three Realms must reverently comply without defiance.

Following this is the "Talisman Dispatch Incantation," depicting the suffering of souls in the underworld and beseeching the Jade Purity Sovereign of Divine Empyrean (Shenxiao Yuqing Jun) to use golden-light talismans to open the gates of the underworld, delivering souls from the sea of suffering and elevating them to celestial realms for spiritual cultivation.

The talismanic ritual then details: The ritual master faces east, burns incense, and kneels in reverence while visualizing the form of the Celestial Worthy Who Saves from Suffering (Taiyi Jiuku Tianzun)—a deity specifically devoted to soul salvation. He sits upon a jeweled throne in the Eastern Azure Palace, clad in crimson feathered robes and crowned with the Jade Purity jeweled headdress, surrounded by five-colored nine-headed lions as guardians. Nine-colored circular halos radiate around him as he holds a pure water vase in his left hand and a verdant branch in his right, flanked by two perfected beings (zhenren) and numerous divine generals.

The master silently recites the sacred name of Taiyi eighty-one times, visualizing the deity commanding attendants to retrieve the Nine Dragons Mandate Talisman (Jiulong Fuming), delivered by nine dragon envoys. After ritually receiving the mandate, the master continues visualizing the deity sprinkling sweet dew in all ten directions, filling heaven and earth with auspicious light. Finally, the master inhales the azure qi of the east and exhales it onto the talismanic brush before commencing the inscription.

This integrated ritual—combining incantations, visualization, and talisman creation—harnesses the divine power of the Celestial Worthy to redeem departed souls, embodying the Daoist compassionate spirit of universal salvation.

This scripture passage describes a Daoist ritual for the salvation of departed souls, comprising several key elements:

The text begins with invocations and praises to multiple Daoist deities, including the Golden Light Nine Dragon Messengers, Azure Mystery Youths, and Salvation from Suffering Perfected Beings. These divine beings all possess the power to deliver souls, and the scripture beseeches them to descend riding dragons, showering the hell realms with compassionate Dharma rain to temporarily halt the cycles of the Six Paths of Rebirth.

Detailed instructions follow regarding the use of talismans (Fulu): when drawing the sacred symbols, the practitioner must face east while drawing in Qi from the ten directions, accompanied by specific hand mudras (the Jade Purity Mudra) and incantations. The spells summon deities like the Eastern Flower Azure Palace Great Emperor and Nine Elders' Immortal Youths, invoking their power to elevate departed souls from the underworld to blessed realms. Special mention is made of the "Nine Dragon Azure Tablets" ritual implement, which helps souls escape infernal interrogations and gain audience with the Jade Emperor.

The scripture vividly portrays the suffering of souls in the underworld: spirits submerged in eternal darkness, bound by karmic retribution. Through this ritual, deities bestow grace to judge souls according to their accumulated merits and faults, granting them liberation. The incantation concludes by emphasizing the urgency of executing these divine commands with the swiftness of wind and fire.

The ceremony culminates with reciting the Salvation from Suffering Scripture (Jiuku Jing) once while knocking the teeth 145 times. The entire ritual embodies the Daoist concept of "deliverance" (Jidu), employing sacred talismans and divine power to rescue souls from the sea of suffering and facilitate their ascension.

This scripture describes a complete Daoist ritual for the salvation of departed souls, comprising three key stages:

The first stage details an internal visualization (meditation) practice. The practitioner visualizes three distinct qi (vital energy) currents within their body - azure, yellow, and white - corresponding to internal organs including the liver, lungs, spleen, heart, kidneys, and stomach, as well as the Muddy Pellet Palace (upper Dantian) and the lower Dantian (energy center). Each organ is guarded by a nine-colored divine dragon. Through nine cycles of breath regulation, the practitioner exhales one dragon with each breath while envisioning perfected beings (those who have attained the Dao) accompanied by celestial generals and heavenly troops swiftly executing the talismanic commands.

The text then meticulously records two crucial incantations. The first "Dispelling Incantation" commands officials from all levels of Fengdu (the underworld capital), including the Nine Nether Hells and Six Heavenly Yin Offices, to release the souls destined for salvation. The incantation conjures miraculous transformations: mountains of blades turning into auspicious trees, lakes of fire becoming cool springs, ultimately leading the departed souls from suffering to rebirth in the Pure Land of Bliss.

The second ritual, the "Supreme Command for Heavenly Salvation Talisman," must be performed at specific celestial hours. On Jia-Yi days (days marked by the heavenly stems Jia and Yi), the practitioner faces east, burns incense, sits in stillness, and recites the Scripture on Salvation from Suffering ten times. They visualize the descent of the Azure Mystery Elder Lord (an incarnation of the Supreme Savior of Suffering), praying for the bestowal of "Azure Mystery's Illuminating Water of Salvation" to inscribe the talisman. The process involves tooth-tapping, incantation recitation, and visualization of azure light illuminating the Nine Springs (underworld), using this sacred water to deliver all beings.

On Bing-Ding days (days marked by the heavenly stems Bing and Ding), the practitioner turns southward to perform the "Vermilion Prison Life-Saving Incantation." This chant praises the deities of the Vermilion Prison Palace (the southern realm of eternal life), including the Elder of the Southern Changsheng and the Great Lord of the Vermilion Prison, beseeching them to elevate departed souls, absolve their sins, and guide them to rebirth in the Vermilion Paradise. Each recitation requires drawing in southern qi and exhaling it into ritual implements.

This passage describes a complete Daoist ritual sequence involving scripture recitation, visualization practices (known as cunxiang), and talismanic techniques. The entire process must be performed during auspicious hours (on moonlit nights) to properly connect with celestial energies.

The practice begins with nighttime incantations to absorb the energy of southern constellations, a method of Yin-Yang cultivation utilizing solar and lunar essences. Each morning after paying respects to Qingxuan Jun (a Daoist deity), practitioners recite scriptures like the Duren Jing (Scripture on Salvation) while visualizing the Big Dipper covering their crown and golden light radiating from the Heavenly Gate, envisioning the jeweled throne of the Jade Emperor (one of Daoism's supreme deities) in the celestial palace.

Following this, the practitioner performs nine solemn prostrations while silently praying for divine pardon. During this stage, one visualizes azure-clad youths descending with golden caskets containing heavenly pardons that merge with the ritual documents prepared by the master, emitting boundless auspicious light. These radiances further infuse into the cinnabar inkstone and calligraphy brush.

Facing east, the practitioner then invokes Qingxuan Laojun to bestow precious talismans. This induces a vision of jade maidens and youths descending with luminous treasure boxes, their contents merging with the ritual documents. Simultaneously, one visualizes green light strands descending from Qingxuan Jun's crown, enveloping the body in nine concentric circles until the practitioner appears immersed in lapis lazuli radiance.

The next phase involves facing south to receive the primordial Qi of the Southern Dipper's six stars, visualizing them shining like the rising sun, each containing esoteric sigils. These stellar lights descend to merge with the six-star patterns on the talismans. After reciting the middle section of scriptures, Qi is directed into the talismans according to specific directional alignments.

The ritual concludes with mudra formations (specific hand seals) and the incantation: "By the decree of the Supreme Mysterious Primordial Dao Lord, this disciple executes talismans to illuminate the dark prisons, liberating trapped souls—swiftly as commanded by the Jade Dawn Dao Lord!" After chanting, celestial energy from the Heavenly Gate is invoked to empower the brush for inscribing the Southern Dipper's secret sigils. Parenthetical notes detail precise mudra techniques: the Li Palace position uses the "yin seal" (second segment of the index finger), while the Fire Official position employs the "threefold manifestation" mudra—these hand gestures symbolize Yin-Yang orientations in veneration of the Southern Dipper Lords.

Note: The characters "魑▲𩲕𩲓▲▲" represent esoteric talismanic script typically transmitted orally within secret lineages, never revealed to outsiders.

This passage describes a complete Daoist ritual for the salvation of deceased souls, primarily involving mudra gestures (qiajue), talisman drawing (huafu), and incantation recitation (nianzhou).

The ritual begins with the priest forming specific hand seals (the "Ziwen" mudra) while chanting mantras, simultaneously drawing talismanic symbols across four fingers. Each stellar deity requires distinct brushwork: the Director of Fate (Siming Xingjun) receives the character "Li" (离), the Keeper of Records (Silu Xingjun) the character "Shou" (首), the Life Extender (Yanshou Xingjun) an imaginary "Huo" (火), and the Fortune Augmenter (Yisuan Xingjun) the character "Tian" (天). The priest then invokes six stellar lords (Tianfu, Tianxiang, Tianliang, Tiantong, Tianshu, Tianji), visualizing them radiating purple-golden light.

Next comes the inscription of the "Jade Heaven Concealed Sigil" (Yu Tian Yin Hui), a secret talismanic pattern, while silently chanting the four-syllable mantra "Om Xu Zha Li." During the recitation of salvation incantations, each character requires three brush rotations on the talisman, totaling twelve rotations. At this stage, the priest draws pure celestial Qi from the northwestern heavens into the talisman.

Subsequently, the priest recites the edict of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun), enabling the deceased souls to ascend immediately. Upon completing the talisman, the practitioner visualizes golden light filling the ritual space, illuminating heaven and earth so that even souls in hell realms may behold this radiance and attain deliverance.

The ceremony concludes by sealing the ritual with the "Green Mystery Precious Register" (Qingxuan Baolu), the salvific decree of the Savior from Suffering (Jiuku Tianzun), while chanting mantras of the Six Southern Dipper Lords to expedite the souls' ascent. The repeated phrase "urgently, urgently, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances" (jiji rulüling) emphasizes immediate execution of the celestial mandate.

[Note: Terms like "Siming" (Director of Fate) and "Silu" (Keeper of Records) refer to Daoist deities governing life and death. The "Six Southern Dipper Stars" (Nandou Liuxing) preside over longevity in Daoism, while "Qingxuan" denotes the Savior from Suffering, with "Baolu" representing celestial edicts. This ritual exemplifies Daoist soteriological practices through talismanic arts, visualization techniques, and divine invocations.]

This scripture describes the ritual process of the Lingbao (Numinous Treasure) tradition in Daoism for delivering deceased souls and liberating them from the Blood Lake Hell. The ceremony primarily involves the use of talismans (fulu), visualization (cunxiang), and divine commands.

First, the ritual master inscribes specific talismanic patterns—mystical Daoist writings—and purifies them by fumigating with incense smoke. Silently reciting the "Great Brahma Hidden Words" (a sacred incantation), the master gathers Qi (vital energy) from the four directions to charge the talisman. Then, while chanting the names of the Supreme One Savior from Suffering (Taiyi Jiuku Tianzun) and the Ten Directions Savior Deities, the master visualizes these celestial beings descending, their golden light and Daoist Qi merging into the talisman until it radiates with dazzling brilliance.

Particular mention is made of the "Jade Origin Blood Lake Purification Talisman," specifically designed to deliver souls trapped in the Blood Lake Hell. Through the divine decree of the Jade Emperor (Yuhuang Dadi) and the combined power of salvation deities like the Savior from Suffering Perfected Being (Jiuku Zhenren) and the Deliverance Primordial Lord (Jidu Yuanjun), the trapped souls are liberated from infernal torment and ascend to the Southern Palace—the Daoist celestial realm where immortals dwell.

The incantation section emphasizes how the talismanic mandate of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, one of Daoism's highest deities) universally aids the underworld, and how the inner talismanic script of Lingbao can deliver beings from the suffering of the Blood Lake. It concludes with the phrase "By the immediate decree of the Primal Sovereign Celestial Lord," signifying the urgent execution of divine will.

Subsequent "Four Protection Talismans" and the "Divine Edict" (a sacred document resembling an official dispatch) further describe how the Five Planets (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) illuminate the process where deceased souls undergo refinement to become immortals. Through the absolution granted by the Three Pure Ones (Yuqing, Shangqing, and Taiqing—Daoism's supreme triad), the Ninefold Darkness of hell is illuminated, freeing souls from the torments of Fengdu (the underworld capital) to finally wander freely in the celestial realms. The entire ritual embodies the Daoist method of communicating with deities through talismans and visualization to achieve the religious purpose of soul salvation.

This scripture describes a set of talismanic rituals used by the Lingbao (Numinous Treasure) school of Daoism for redeeming departed souls. It primarily includes several crucial fulu (talismanic writings) and their corresponding incantations:

The first is the "Boluo Moru Talisman," which alleviates the suffering of souls trapped in the "three wretched paths, five sufferings, and eight calamities" (referring to the hell, hungry ghost, and animal realms among the three evil destinies, along with five types of torment and eight categories of misfortune).

Next comes the "True Official Mandate Talisman," which swiftly delivers souls through the authentic talismanic command of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, the supreme deity in Daoism). There is also the "Lingbao Grand Edict," an official document addressed to celestial immortals across the heavens, requiring approval through multiple heavenly jurisdictions.

The "Commanding Earth Deities Talisman" facilitates communication with underworld spirits, mentioning the "nine layered earth fortresses" (the Daoist conception of nine underground realms) and "vermilion texts of the nine sovereigns" (sacred underworld documents) to liberate souls from ghostly officials' control.

The "Universal Proclamation to the Three Realms Talisman" announces the absolution of souls' transgressions to the celestial, terrestrial, and aquatic realms. References include the "Three Platforms" (major stars in the Big Dipper) and "Eastern Well" (one of the twenty-eight lunar mansions), both significant in Daoist astral beliefs.

Particularly noteworthy is the "Jiaolong Courier Talisman," transmitted via the "Jiaolong couriers" (ghostly messengers specialized in delivering underworld documents). Practitioners must form the "Jade Emperor Hand Seal" (a specific mudra), channel the radiance of the North Star, and infuse qi into the talisman-writing brush. The completed talisman is then burned in blue smoke for the couriers to deliver to the underworld.

The final incantation essentially declares: By the authority of the Primordial Beginning's talismanic decree, transmitted through the Jiaolong couriers to all underworld bureaus, all sinful sufferings are absolved. May the message penetrate the dark realms with the swiftness of fish-dragons conveying news. All participating Daoist celebrants must harmonize their efforts, becoming one with the Dao.

This complete ritual system demonstrates how Daoism constructs sacred space through multiple techniques—talismans, astral correspondences, hand seals—to form an integrated framework for soul redemption.

This scripture describes two Daoist Fulu (talismanic registers) used for liberating departed souls, along with their ritual applications. The first is the "Jiaolong Child Spirit Talisman," which must be inserted into the left and right ears of a ritual effigy. The text references the North Star (Celestial Pivot) and five stellar positions—common astrological markers in Daoist ceremonies for bridging heaven and earth.

The incantation essentially conveys: by celestial decree, the underworld is commanded to release imprisoned souls, delivering these suffering spirits from bondage. Through the sanction of the Three Officials (Heavenly, Earthly, and Water Officials), the nine layers of hell's gates are opened, enabling souls to transcend suffering and attain rebirth. The phrase "urgently, urgently, in accordance with statutes and ordinances" concludes the spell—a standard Daoist formula indicating immediate enforcement.

The second is the "Golden Dragon Courier Talisman," to be affixed within the ritual document. This talisman employs golden dragons as divine messengers to disseminate Lord Laozi's (one of Daoism's highest deities) pardon throughout the underworld. The text depicts imagery of golden radiance illuminating all and "jade-pure vision" (representing spiritual clarity), signifying the souls' purification before being borne aloft by golden dragons riding wind and fire. During the ritual, the Jade Emperor Mudra (a specific hand seal) must be formed to channel the Big Dipper's stellar energy, infusing the brush with Qi (vital energy) for talismanic inscription.

Practical instructions conclude the passage: when inscribing the talisman, face the Tai Zun star (a specific star in the Big Dipper) and burn the ritual slip amidst blue smoke. The ceremony requires 250,000 Golden Dragon Couriers to deliver the divine edict, with prior notification to the Primordial Heavenly Sovereign (Daoism's supreme deity) necessary before summoning these couriers. Such details exemplify the exacting standards of Daoist liturgy regarding celestial orientations, mudras, breath regulation, and other cultivation techniques.

The four northern stars of the Big Dipper form a configuration resembling the Well constellation (one of the 28 Lunar Mansions), while the four dimmer southern stars resemble the Neck constellation (another Lunar Mansion). Among them, the most revered Tai Zun star appears yellow and radiant, representing the core of the Big Dipper.

When the two stars of Celestial Pivot (Tianxuan and Tianji in the Dipper) align with the southern direction, they possess special spiritual power. The Golden Dragon Child Talisman recorded here is an important charm for liberating deceased souls:

First Talisman (for sealing the Child's right ear):

This is a decree issued by the Supreme Lao Jun, commanding the underworld courts to cease judgment and pardon souls from the Nine Nether Hells. May the eternal darkness of hell be illuminated by sunlight and moonlight, with the radiance of the Three Platforms (stars governing fate) shining upon sinful souls to deliver them from suffering. Upon receiving this order, the Golden Dragon officials of the Spring Bend Office (underworld administration) must immediately execute it and escort the souls to ascend to heaven.

Second Talisman (for sealing the Child's left ear):

This is a command from the Purple Tenuity Emperor, directing the Life-Registering Great Deity of the Southern Dipper (stars governing life and death) to act promptly. The Golden Dragon Child must swiftly guide the souls to ascend to paradise without delay.

When using both talismans together, recite:

"By the decree of the Primordial Heavenly Worthy, the Golden Dragon is commanded to unite with the talisman and receive Qi (primordial energy), soaring to the celestial palace. After refinement, the deceased souls shall transcend reincarnation and ascend immediately without lingering. Urgently, as the law commands!"

Special Hell-Breaking Talismans:

Hell-Opening Talisman: In the name of the Three Pure Ones (Jade Pure, Upper Pure, and Supreme Pure) and the Jade Emperor, this commands the gates of hell to open. Divine light shines universally, filling hell with Brahma Qi (primordial pure energy), enabling souls to ride clouds to heaven.

Lock-Destroying Talisman: By the decree of Supreme Lao Jun, this breaks the shackles of hell, allowing souls to ascend directly to the Jade Pure Heaven.

Gate-Opening Talisman: Divine light from the Mysterious Void Cave illuminates the prison gates, causing iron walls to crumble and sword trees (hell's torture devices) to vanish. Divine generals clear the path to guide souls to the ritual platform.

Usage note: For each hell layer broken, burn the corresponding talisman before the prison gate, visualize the gate opening wide, then perform the hell-breaking ritual.

Finally, the Green Mystery Salvation Talisman for Breaking Fengdu Hell (used to dismantle the Fengdu Hell) describes its spiritual power as resembling the purple energy of the morning sun (primordial energy) enveloping Mount Luofeng, capable of manifesting the salvific form of the Salvation Heavenly Worthy (Imperial Elder).

This scripture describes several key talismans (fulu) and their ritual applications in the Daoist "Hell-Shattering" ceremony. It focuses on the ritual where the Celestial Worthy of Universal Salvation (Taiyi Jiuku Tianzun, a major Daoist deity specializing in redeeming lost souls) collaborates with multiple celestial worthies to liberate souls from the underworld.

The first talisman, named "Hell-Shattering Tenfold Mystical Transformation Talisman," requires the practitioner to silently recite the sacred name of Taiyi nine times while drawing pale blue-green Qi (vital energy) from the East into the talisman. The text mentions that the Ten Directions' Celestial Worthies (supreme deities of all cosmic directions) can manifest countless forms—above them are the Thirty-Six Heavens, and below are the Thirty-Six Springs—possessing infinite transformative power. Where the ritual jade scepter points, nine-colored divine light destroys karmic obstructions and purifies souls across all realms.

The second section lists the sacred names of multiple salvation deities, including the Celestial Worthy of the Scarlet Mausoleum (Zhuling Duren Tianzun) and the Celestial Worthy of the Wheel-Turning Sage King (Zhuanlun Shengwang Tianzun), whose boundless power redeems the fallen and delivers souls. The talisman commands the officials of Fengdu (the Daoist underworld) to carry out this salvation mission, freeing condemned souls from hell and elevating them to paradise.

During the ritual, the practitioner forms the Jade Purity Mudra (a specific hand seal) while again drawing azure Qi from the East, visualizing the celestial worthies manifesting their luminous forms to infuse the talisman with spiritual power. When used in the Hell-Shattering rite, this talisman announces liberation to the Ninefold Darkness, absolving the sins of trapped souls.

The final "Celestial Worthy of Universal Salvation Talisman" invokes high-ranking deities such as the Primordial Celestial Worthy (Yuanshi Tianzun) and the Daoist Lord of Numinous Treasure (Lingbao Daojun). It emphasizes Taiyi Tianzun’s vow of compassion, which brings nourishing rain to the infernal realms, instantly dismantling the prisons of darkness. The Five Elders of the Five Directions (cosmic guardians) and their attendant youths descend to rescue souls, while the Worthy’s wisdom illuminates all three realms (heaven, earth, and the underworld).

Through talismans, mudras, visualization, and Qi manipulation, this ceremony unites the power of multiple celestial worthies to shatter hell’s bonds and deliver the departed.

This scripture describes several methods for drawing and using Daoist talismans (fulu), primarily aimed at redeeming lost souls and alleviating suffering in the underworld.

When inscribing a talisman, the practitioner must visualize the Celestial Venerable of Great Unity (Taiyi Tianzun, one of Daoism's supreme deities) above their head, then channel a stream of azure Qi (vital energy) through breathwork to infuse the talisman with this power. The mentioned "Six Heavens Edict Text" refers to a special incantation that must be accompanied by the Jade Purity Hand Seal (Yuqing Jue). The talismanic content petitions the Celestial Venerable of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, head of the Three Pure Ones) to issue divine commands—liberating souls from underworld torment, removing punishments like the Mountain of Blades, and enabling rebirth in higher realms.

The "Light-Returning Talisman" section details a charm capable of illuminating the underworld, containing the combined energies of sun, moon, and stars. Its incantation references how the Seven Stars' True Qi (the power of the Big Dipper) universally illuminates heaven and earth to dispel darkness. It also mentions the "Three Corpses" (sanshi, three malevolent spirits residing in the human body) and the "Seven Luminaries" (qiyao, sun, moon and five visible planets), indicating this talisman's purifying effects on both body and spirit.

The "Wisdom-Light Talisman" involves more complex procedures requiring the Jade Purity Hand Seal. It gathers luminous power from the Moonlight Youth, Sunlight Youth, the Three Pure Ones (Yuqing, Shangqing, and Taiqing), and the Three Heavens (Qingwei Tian, Yuyu Tian, and Dachi Tian). These divine radiances penetrate hell realms to rescue suffering souls. The text further mentions ritual offerings like incense smoke and sacred lamps that enhance the talisman's efficacy when used ceremonially.

The conclusion emphasizes how these luminous forces govern the Nine Earths and Eight Extremes (the entire cosmos), enabling souls' ascension. The closing phrase "ji ji ru lü ling" (immediately as the law commands) is a standard talismanic formula indicating instantaneous effect.

This scripture primarily discusses two aspects: the ritual incantations for the salvation of deceased souls, and the specific methods for crafting Daoist ritual implements.

The first part contains the salvation incantation. It explains that during the primordial creation of the Daoist cosmos (the "Red Brilliance Opening the Chart" era), the universe operated through natural laws. Today's grand ritual aims to elevate trapped souls from the dark, frigid underworld. It invokes the Light of Wisdom (Huiguang) to illuminate the netherworld, melting icy torments and extinguishing furnace punishments, freeing souls from the suffering of blade mountains and sword forests. The prayer seeks to fill the ten directions with radiance, enabling souls to dissolve the Five Accumulated Karmas (wulei) and merge with the eternal light of the Three Luminaries (sun, moon, stars). The text concludes by mentioning how the Enlightened Youth (Kaiming Tongzi) and Jade Maidens of the Three Lights (Sanguang Yunü) will execute these divine decrees.

The second part details the crafting of the "Policy Staff" (cezhang) ritual implement. One must select a nine-jointed sweet bamboo grown on blessed mountains facing sunlight, harvested on auspicious dates like the 3rd day of the 3rd month or 7th day of the 7th month. Four holes are drilled in the third segment to insert the Five Peaks Talismans (wuyue fu) representing the mountain deities, sealed with wax. A yellow silk pouch should contain the staff, adorned with a small yellow banner inscribed with the "Talisman of Azure Mystery Supreme" (Qingxuan Tianzun Fu) and "Salvation Edict for Heavenly Rebirth" (Shengtian Chishe Fu). The staff must be ceremonially activated before the image of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun) and returned after use—distinct from the staff used for liberation-through-corpse (shijie) ascension practices.

The appendix describes crafting the Five Peaks Talismans: using thin yellow paper while facing southeast, forming the Jade Purity Hand Seal (Yuqing Jue), and reciting: "The Supreme Mysterious Origin, Most High Lord of the Dao, commands me to lead the immortal officials of Five Peaks and myriad divine hosts to open hell's gates, liberating bound souls without restraint. Urgently, urgently, in accordance with the Supreme Sovereign's decree!" This incantation expresses the will to harness the highest Daoist divine power for soul salvation.