《雲笈七籤》Vol. 20

The Most High Lord of the Great Dao, a revered Daoist deity, told the True Lord of the North Pole, a true god of the northern heavens: “I once traveled through the northern sky. Riding a cloud-drawn chariot, I came to the realm of the Vast Cold, set foot upon the flower canopy, and moved the Nine Origins. I wandered and played in the Palace of Wandering Clouds, roamed freely in the Halls of Northern Mystery and Northern Yin, and went sightseeing at the Gate of the Grotto’s Radiance. I looked up at the Jade Pivot—the pattern of the Northern Dipper—to summon and reveal that a calamity was near. At the turning of the calamity cycle, I danced the wheel of the stars and lamented the decline of all things, while gazing down upon Heaven and Earth and enduring through the ages.

“Only then did I understand the wonder of the Nine Stars and grasp the supreme spiritual power of the Dipper’s Ladle, the four stars at the front of the Northern Dipper. The Nine Stars are the foundation of the Nine Heavens’ vital energy, the great beams that support the courses of the Sun and Moon, and the source of all things. Thus, Heaven has nine vital energies, with the Nine Stars as their spiritual pivots; Earth has nine provinces, with the Nine Stars as their divine rulers; and human beings have nine openings, with the Nine Stars as the storehouse of life. The Nine Palaces of Yin and Yang take the Nine Stars as their gates, while the Five Sacred Peaks and the Four Seas conceal the spiritual power of the Nine Stars. Heaven, Earth, and humanity correspond to the Nine Stars and sustain one another without end. The Nine Stars govern the movement of the constellations, set the Sun, Moon, and stars in motion, harmonize the Five Phases, and enable Heaven and Earth to endure. They are also the root of all things and the source of power on which the immortals rely.

“Without the Nine Stars, Heaven could not be clear and lofty; Earth could not become a realm of supreme spiritual power; and without them, the nine openings of the human body could not be clear and open. The Supreme Emperor uses the Nine Stars to communicate with the true Dao; immortals use them to attain the immortal Dao; the Five Phases follow them in their cycles of transformation; and all things receive their vital energy in order to grow.

“When Heaven and Earth are clear and at peace, the Nine Stars shine brightly. When celestial signs shift violently and Earth’s vital energy is blocked, the Nine Stars grow dim and obscured. The Jade Pivot marks the appointed time of a calamity cycle, while the Celestial Pass sets the vital energies of the Five Phases in motion. The wheel of the stars is like a great hollow-spoked wheel turning in the void, driving the vital energies of the Nine Heavens to converge. Thus the divine light revolves and shines, while the mysterious celestial mirror watches over all beings. If the Nine Stars stray from their proper positions, they foretell calamity or good fortune.

“Great cycles of change in Heaven and Earth, including the calamity known as the Hundred-and-Six, which Daoists describe as a period in the cycle of tribulations, occur because the Nine Stars have reached the end of their cycle. At that time, Yin and Yang fall out of balance, the Sun and Moon are eclipsed, the two vital energies become obstructed and turbulent, Heaven and Earth are overturned, and the Nine Seas grow dim and merge into one. Even gold and jade melt away. In all these transformations, not the slightest deviation occurs.”

The movements of the stars and the turning of the celestial pivot both reveal the mysteries of the cosmos and its arcane laws. Master their principles, and one can perform arts such as walking invisibly through the air, concealing one’s presence, making the body disappear, and changing one’s appearance. One can also make the sun, moon, stars, and all things appear in an instant. The so-called “hidden and submerged black spots” comprise twenty-five names. Their meaning is profound and subtle; they are secret methods and are not passed down to those below.

In Heaven are the Nine Stellar Lords of Radiance, and between them are the Nine August Ladies. The souls, essence, vital souls, and spirits all possess the awe-inspiring power of the Nine Dipper Stars. They emit the light of the Seven Luminaries, which shines and spreads through the gates of the Nine Heavens, suddenly illuminating the dark void so that even the finest details are revealed. The Yang radiance of the stars transforms into the Flowing-Gold Fire Bells; their Yin radiance transforms into the Seven Primordial Ones of Clear Descent. These are all talismanic writs of the exalted deities, and ritual statutes through which the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning displays his power.

The formula for “the dragon flying over a foot of white silk” must be transmitted orally using secret taboo names. At the covenant ceremony, silk texts are laid out beneath the radiant dawn, and offerings such as sheep and geese are presented to Heaven to announce the rite and invite the Perfected Ones. Then arcane radiance bends down to shine upon the covenant altar; the Nine Dawn deities descend into the sacred chamber, the Lady rejoices upon her couch, and the Dark Dipper records the practitioner’s name in its hidden register.

Anyone who understands and practices this Daoist method will be able to escape a great calamity and pass through the disaster of the jia-shen year. After fourteen years of cultivation, one can spread one’s wings like a wild goose and soar into the sky, leaving the Purple Empyrean and ascending to the realm of the dawn.

This is a supreme Daoist method of the Jade Clarity realm, distinct from the immortals’ arts of the Highest Clarity realm. Jade Clarity is where the perfected beings of the Highest Clarity realm reside; Highest Clarity is where the high deities of the Great Clarity realm reside; and Great Clarity is where the exalted spirits of the flying immortals reside. When practitioners of the Jade Clarity method travel, deities from the heavens attend their carriage. They are accompanied by three thousand Jade Youths and three thousand Jade Maidens, who carry standards in three sets of seven colors. They ride a flying chariot of purple cloud with twelve jade wheels. Phoenixes sing ahead to lead the way; behind them follow the Six Masters of the Dark Hook, while flying dragons guard the carriage shafts. Their rank is equal to that of the high immortals, and they are listed in the Jade Clarity register of immortals.

When practitioners of the Highest Clarity method travel, the Five Lodges guard them. They are accompanied by fifteen hundred Jade Youths and fifteen hundred Jade Maidens, who carry purple-feathered standards. They ride a flying cloud chariot of cinnabar; phoenixes and luan birds play music ahead, while the Heavenly Hook and Dark Dragons lead the way behind. The Five Emperors attend their carriage. Their rank is that of ministers at the left and right of the Highest Clarity realm.

When practitioners of the Great Clarity method travel, the Five Emperors guard them. They are accompanied by eight hundred Jade Youths and eight hundred Jade Maidens, who carry five-colored standards. They ride a dragon chariot through flying mist. Nine phoenixes cry out ahead, and eight luan birds play music behind; a white dragon leads the way, while the spirits of the Supreme Ultimate attend their carriage.

From this, we can see that even among the Perfected Ones there are distinctions of rank, and arcane Daoist methods have different levels. The Dao of Jade Clarity is profound and lofty…

This method of the Nine Stars of the Highest Order—whereby one visualizes the Nine Stars and treads their steps to ascend into the celestial realm—is exceedingly profound. It cannot be compared with what ordinary Perfected Ones or Flying Immortals can attain. I received this method long ago from the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning. Even now, after seven hundred million kalpas, through the repeated rise and decline of Heaven and Earth and the birth and extinction of all things, this method alone has endured. I still practice it above the Cloud Vista and cannot let it slip from my mind. I have always delighted in and cherished this lofty, wondrous Way; how much more so when someone destined to encounter it comes along?

You have only just begun practicing the art of flying ascent, and you do not yet understand the method of seeking out the hidden paths and treading through emptiness. How, then, can you open the gates of the layered heavens and observe the beginning and end of Heaven and Earth? Without this method, you will be cut off from the Nine Mornings, the realms of the heavens, and unable to travel between them. Even if you possess an exalted, mysterious title and are entered in the registers of the Emperor Lords and Immortals, and can ride cloud dragons to tour the Five Sacred Peaks, you will have achieved no more than freedom from death. If you wish to go further—to tread the Dipper’s Ladle, turn your steps through the Splendid Mornings, and rise into the Jade Clarity Heaven—you may find that goal still far beyond reach.

In time, you will assist and govern the cycles of tribulation, oversee the affairs of the Ten Heavens, examine the mysterious registers of the immortals, and administer and judge matters concerning the divine and immortal beings. You should therefore learn this method so that you can guide all living beings. I now transmit it to you. Guard it carefully and practice it diligently.

The Perfected One of the Nine Mornings said: To practice the Way of Flying Steps, first bathe and fast the day before, purifying body and mind. On the appointed day, lay out a star chart in the middle of the courtyard and determine the directions according to the Dipper’s handle. Kneel facing north, burn incense beneath the Star of Dark Mystery, one of the Nine Stars, and click your teeth thirty-six times. Then close your eyes and visualize: Jupiter at your left side, Venus at your right side, Mars above your head, Mercury below your navel, and Saturn beside your heart. Next, imagine your clothes covering the Nine Stars. Raise your left hand, bend your arm, and place it above your head in the shape of the Northern Dipper. Then visualize the Star of Yang Radiance in your left palm, the Star of Yin Essence at your left elbow, the Star of the Perfected One above your left breast, and the Star of Dark Mystery directly over your heart. (This is why incense is burned and an invocation made beneath the Star of Dark Mystery: the heart corresponds to Heaven, and this also serves to express one’s intention.)

The Star of Cinnabar Origin is above your right side; the Star of the Northern Pole is above your right knee; the Star of the Celestial Gate is on the instep of your right foot; the Assistant Star is below your navel; and the Aide Star is above your head. Then recite the complete incantation:

“Clothed in the Celestial Dipper, I wear a golden headcloth. Riding the Ladle Star and the Handle Star, I enter the Dipper’s Gate. I pay homage to the Perfected Ones and respectfully greet the Splendid Mornings. The Twenty-Eight Lunar Mansions circle around and shield my body. I ride through emptiness and tread the void, ascending on my own.”

When you have finished, swallow your breath nine times. Then raise your right hand, form it into the shape of the Northern Dipper, and place it above your head. Visualize the Star of Yang Radiance returning to your right palm, the Star of Yin Essence at your right elbow, and the Star of the Perfected One at ….

Above the right breast is the Mysterious Darkness Star; above the center of the chest is the Cinnabar Origin Star; above the left thigh is the Northern Pole Star; above the left knee is the Heavenly Gate Star; above the instep of the left foot is the Assistant Star; above the left eye is the Support Star; and above the right eye is the Net Star.

Then recite the incantation:

“I ride the Heavenly Dipper and tread the Nine Origins. I step upon the Dipper’s Ladle and travel on, ascending in flight to become an immortal and behold the heart of Heaven. All the spirits fear me. I can conceal my traces and transform in countless ways. Any evil spirit that comes to attack will be seized and confined within the Dipper’s Gate. I sweep away all inauspiciousness and make the righteous Way clear. On my left shines the light of the Fire Bell; on my right gleams the radiance of the Spirit Banner. My majestic light illuminates ten thousand miles. I summon the spirits, and they come at once before me. The incantation recited by the Jade Emperor never fails to take effect.”

When the incantation is complete, swallow the breath sixteen times. Then circle around the Dipper stars in order. Visualize your hun and po souls moving from above the Celestial Pivot Star toward the Bright Yang Star, then ascending to the Celestial Jade Star and the Celestial Mechanism Star, and circling in sequence as far as the Hidden Origin Star. Make three circuits back and forth. Finally, stop at the Hidden Origin Star, chant the “Chapter on Flying Through the Three Caverns,” and then ascend to the Bright Yang Star. At this point, stand and visualize the Lady’s form described earlier.

The first star, the Celestial Pivot Star, is where the Bright Yang Star’s hun soul resides. It is majestic without ostentation, luminous without casting rays. Hidden within the Great Void, its sphere of influence extends 920 li. It lies beside a gate to the northwest of the Bright Yang Star and is known as the “Essence of the Dipper’s Origin Palace.” The Mysterious High True Sovereign Lady’s surname is Ming. She is commonly called Ying Xuan Zhen and named “Upper Essence.” Her hair is arranged in a high, sloping Flying Cloud coiffure, with the rest falling to her waist. She wears garments of purple, yellow, and blue, and a sash hung with nine bells. She often exhales blue radiance, which shines upon the Bright Yang Star and makes its light gleam.

When practicing the Way of Flying Steps, visualize the Lady’s surname, name, title, and appearance, then recite the incantation. This can clear and correct the hun soul, delight the Bright Yang Star, and make the light of Heaven shine brilliantly. It enables the soul and body to ascend together and reach the realm of immortals. Stand with your feet together above the Celestial Pivot Star, facing the Bright Yang Star. Press your left hand against your heart and point your right hand toward the Bright Yang Star. Knock your teeth nine times, swallow saliva nine times, hold your breath for three breaths, then softly recite:

“Heavenly Consort of the Nine Stars, gather the breaths and form the true shape. The Seven Luminaries encircle you; you are called Jade Dawn. Above is the Flowery Canopy; below, you tread the Dipper’s Ladle. Your body rides the Celestial Mechanism, taking flying steps upon the jade carriage. Hun, essence, po, spirit, and body unite, enabling you to become an immortal. May the original Qi endure like the sun, moon, and Heaven and Earth, transforming with the cycles of time. May the Lady unite with me and carry me upward through the Nine Heavens, where I may drift in the natural realm of immortals.”

The text goes on to say that after reciting, one should hold the breath for three breaths.

After regulating the breath, first step with the left foot onto the position of the Tianxuan star, then bring the right foot level with the left, and steady the breath.

The second star is Tianxuan, corresponding to the hun-spirit of the Yin Essence Star. Its distant light shines across the heavens without dazzling; it lies hidden within the Great Void, extending over five hundred and fifty li, opposite the western gate of the Yin Essence Star. This star is called the Palace of the Dark Dipper. Within it dwells the Lady of the Upper Mystery, Void Essence, Imperial Consort. Her surname is Xuanjing, her given name Yubo Guang, and her true name Jin Gui. Her hair is arranged in a tall, cloud-shaped coiffure, with the rest falling to her waist. She wears a flying brocade skirt and a phoenix-patterned brocade shawl, fastened with a purple sash of numinous flight. She constantly breathes forth black luminous Qi, which enters the Yin Essence Star and makes it shine.

When practicing the method of flying steps—a cultivation method of stepping in accordance with the stars while coordinating visualization and incantations—visualize the lady’s surname, given name, and appearance. Stand with both feet on Tianxuan, facing the Yin Essence Star. Rest the left hand over the heart and point the right hand toward the Yin Essence Star. Click the teeth nine times, swallow the saliva nine times, hold the breath for nine counts, then softly recite the incantation:

“Spirit of the Northern Dark Emperor, open the ninefold gates to a realm of clear brightness. Jade radiance lies hidden yet shines forth, joining the Purple Court. Today, as I take the flying steps, the ten thousand paths open in clarity. Let my hun and po be pure and upright, settled securely within my body; do not let them scatter. Ascend with me to the northern stars, inhale dark essence, drink from the Jade Spring, transform amid the Nine Subtlety, preserve life, and reach the heavenly spirit.”

When you have finished reciting, hold the breath for three counts. Then step with the left foot onto the position of the Tianji star, bring the right foot level with the left, and steady the breath.

The third star is Tianji, corresponding to the po-essence of the Perfected Star. Its force is strong yet concealed; it has radiance but does not dazzle. It lies hidden within the Great Void, extending over seven hundred and seventy li, opposite the southeastern gate of the Perfected Star. This star is called the Palace of Upper Essence. Within it dwells the Lady of the Primordial Emperor, Numinous Consort. Her surname is Changming, her given name Huayun, and her true name Liuyan. She wears a jeweled crown of dawn-borne infants and a flying-cloud robe of luminous brocade, fastened with the sash of the Six Mountains and Flying Dawn. She constantly breathes forth yellow essence-Qi, which enters the Perfected Star and makes it shine.

When practicing the method of flying steps, visualize the lady’s surname, given name, and appearance. Stand with both feet on Tianji, facing the Perfected Star. Rest the right hand over the heart and point the left hand toward the Perfected Star. Click the teeth nine times, swallow the saliva nine times, hold the breath for twelve counts, then softly recite the incantation:

“Numinous Consort, Primordial Emperor, Perfected One among the nine stars, you govern the measures of Tianji, oversee all affairs beneath Heaven, and survey the regions below. You travel through purple clouds. Today is an auspicious day: the Imperial Way spreads open, its moistening grace flowing everywhere…”

With the oral formula—“Nine outer curves sprinkle my body; in feathered flight I walk the steps, ascending to the Emperor’s Dawn, sharing the brow of the Sovereign, enjoying kalpas without end”—as the key phrase, then hold the breath for three cycles. Next step the left foot onto the Tianquan star; then step the right foot level with the left, and release the breath.

The fourth star is Tianquan. It is the po-spirit essence of the Xuanming star—the kind of numinous power that constitutes that star. Tianquan’s light is faint and subtle, as if mirroring the radiance of Xuanming; hidden yet bright, it circles the Grand Void for eight hundred li. It faces the eastern gate of Xuanming. This star’s palace is called Gangji Palace. Within the palace dwells the upper numinous divine consort, Lady Hua Huang. Her surname is Kaisheng; her taboo name is Yunming; her true name is Yingguan. She wears the crown called Jianqicheng and a crimson gauze robe patterned with phoenix motifs; at her waist she carries the Golden Truth and Jade Radiance. From her mouth she constantly exhales crimson vital breath, pouring it into the Xuanming star so that the star’s light blazes forth.

When practicing the Way of Flying Steps, visualize the Lady’s surname, taboo name, and form, and at the same time imagine yourself standing on Tianquan, facing Xuanming: the right hand presses the heart, the left hand points toward Xuanming; knock the teeth nine times, swallow saliva three times, then hold the breath for three cycles and softly recite:

“The divine consort of upper numinosity, titled Hua Huang, secures and settles the palace north of the canopy of heaven. To her left attend jade maidens; to her right guard spirit boys. They lead the light of the seven essences and nine splendors, summoning the true Way for me, so that I may fly the steps along the celestial net and lift my hun and po together into the Emperor’s hall.”

When finished, hold the breath for three cycles. Step the left foot onto the Yuheng star, bring the right foot level with the left, then release the breath.

The fifth star is Yuheng. It is the hun-soul of the Danyuan star. Yuheng is vast and still, deep and surging; its light does not show outward but hides within the Grand Void, encircling seven hundred and twenty li. It faces the northeast gate of Danyuan. This star’s palace is called Jiming Palace, situated within the northern Golden Canopy; within the palace dwells the imperial consort. Her surname is Yuanfang; her taboo name is Shenwu; her true name is Bo. She wears the Purple Dawn Flying Splendor crown and a robe of nine colors; at her waist she carries the Spirit Tiger jade pattern. From her mouth she constantly exhales white luminous qi, pouring it into the Danyuan star so that the star shines bright.

When practicing the Way of Flying Steps, visualize the Lady’s surname, taboo name, and form, and at the same time imagine yourself standing on Yuheng, facing Danyuan: the right hand presses the heart, the left hand points toward Danyuan; knock the teeth three times, swallow saliva three times, then hold the breath for three cycles and softly recite:

“The imperial consort of central splendor dwells in the place of upper primordiality; the Nine Dippers pour forth radiance, essence and brilliance illuminating the eight directions.”

The dense mist disperses into a numinous vermilion glow, joining my soul and spirit with Heaven and Earth. My body and soul rise together, riding an aerial chariot and mastering the void. Jade-colored radiance coils around the vermilion chariot and purple carriage as they fly north. After bowing upward in homage, I receive the Hidden Scripture. When the rite is complete, I hold my breath for three counts. Then I raise my left foot first and step onto the star Kaiyang; I bring my right foot level with the left, then breathe freely.

The sixth star, Kaiyang, is the soul and numinous spirit of the North Star. Its light is bright and profound, shining without dazzling and illuminating hidden places. In the Great Void, its sphere of influence extends seven hundred and seventy li. It lies directly beneath the North Star and is the place where the northern cavern gate opens. The star’s divine title is Lady Anshang Chenhua Yuanhuang of the Purple Pole Palace. Her surname is Wang; her original taboo name is Genhua, and her true name is Minghui. She wears a Jade Dawn cap of advancement and virtue, a flying blue feather robe, and a belt strung with flowing-gold fire bells. She constantly exhales green vital energy, which enters the North Star and brightens its radiance.

When practicing the method of flying steps, visualize this lady’s surname, names, and appearance. Place both feet on Kaiyang, with the crown of your head facing the North Star. Rest your left hand over your heart and point your right hand toward the North Star. Click your teeth three times, swallow saliva five times, and hold your breath for five counts. Then chant softly:

Sovereign of the Nine Heavens, ancestral source of Yellow Radiance, you turn the Jade Pivot and govern the eight directions. Enable me to fly-step upon the Celestial Measures and Celestial Net, crossing and recrossing them, moving lengthwise and crosswise in threes and fives, and reaching the hidden realms of the eight directions. Clad in a dark and yellow feather robe, riding a dragon chariot of jade radiance, I fly through the Great Void, enjoying long life and enduring as long as Heaven and Earth.

When you have finished chanting, hold your breath for five counts. Then step with your left foot onto the star Yaoguang, bring your right foot level with the left, and breathe freely.

The seventh star, Yaoguang, is the soul of the Celestial Gate star and the Qi of Great Brightness. Its light flows through the hollow void, encircling the Celestial Gate star. In the Great Void, its sphere of influence extends nine hundred li. Above, it corresponds to the southern gate of the Celestial Gate star; below, it corresponds to the North Star. The star’s divine title is Lady Yuntian Gong Yuhua Linghuang. Her surname is Du; her original taboo name is Zhonghui, and her true name is Qiguang. Her hair is arranged in a flying-flower, cloud-like coiffure, with the rest flowing loose to her waist. She wears a seven-colored skirt of luminous cloud brocade and a nine-colored brocade shawl, and carries a jade tablet of the Nine Heavens’ Awe-Inspiring Power. She constantly exhales red vital energy, which enters the Celestial Gate star and brightens its radiance. When practicing the method of flying steps, visualize this lady’s surname, names, and appearance. Place both feet on Yaoguang, with the crown of your head facing the Celestial Gate star. Rest your left hand over your heart and point your right…

First point your fingers toward the Celestial Gate—the heavenly passage spoken of in Daoism. Knock your teeth together nine times, swallow your saliva nine times, then hold your breath for three breaths. Next, softly recite the invocation:

Heaven and Earth turn and revolve; seven rays of light blaze forth. The Nine Qi wheel and answer above to Jade Clarity. Within Jade Clarity dwells a Lady named Hua Ling Xuanying. Beyond the Nine Heavens, there is no subtle thing she cannot illuminate. Today is an auspicious day. I tread the Purple Court, bringing my soul and spirit to rest and joining them to my bodily form. I cause my form to transform, moving in and out between the empty cavern and the dark netherworld. May I turn with Heaven and Earth, endure ten thousand kalpas without falling, preserve the primordial Qi of the immortals, and unite with the vital essence of the Nine Mornings.

When you have finished reciting, hold your breath for seven breaths. Then step with your left foot onto the Star of the Cavern’s Brightness, one of the Northern Dipper’s celestial offices, and move forward. Bring your right foot up beside it, then breathe normally.

The eighth star, the Star of the Cavern’s Brightness, is the soul and vital essence of the Assistant Star, and belongs to Yang brightness. Its radiance shines back upon the various heavens and governs their rotations, allowing the constellations to circulate through the Great Void. It extends for nine hundred and ninety li around it and corresponds above to the gateway southwest of the Assistant Star, above the Celestial Gate and in the bright region north of the Pole. The star’s palace is called the Palace of Empty Truth. Within the star dwells the Lady Great Brightness, Constant Sovereign. Her surname is You Sheng, her taboo name is Wu Yun, and her true name is Kong Bian. Her hair is arranged in a sloping, flowered topknot like flying clouds, with the rest falling to her waist. She wears a patterned robe of flying gauze and a sash of nine lights. She constantly breathes forth the essence of blue Qi, which flows into the Assistant Star and keeps it radiant with Yang brightness.

When practicing the flying-step method, visualize this Lady’s surname, names, and appearance. Stand with both feet on the Star of the Cavern’s Brightness, corresponding above to the Assistant Star. Place your right hand over your heart and point your left hand toward the Assistant Star. Knock your teeth together nine times, swallow your saliva nine times, hold your breath for three breaths, then softly recite the invocation:

Flying through the Three and Five, Heaven and Earth unfold. The Nine Origins turn the Celestial Dipper, converging in the Upper Capital. The Heavenly Immortals scatter numinous Qi, and the ten thousand paths flourish. The Lady’s compassionate radiance shines upon me; today is auspicious. I tread among the Dipper stars, my soul and spirit turning with them as I travel along the Jade Dipper. I wear a canopy upon my head and tread upon Constant Yang. I roam freely in the realm of the Three Pure Ones, transforming in ten thousand ways. May I preserve the immortal and the true, and naturally enjoy endless longevity.

When you have finished reciting, hold your breath for twelve breaths. Then step with your left foot onto the Star of Hidden Origin, one of the Northern Dipper’s celestial offices, and move forward. Bring your right foot beside it, then breathe normally.

The ninth star, the Star of Hidden Origin, is the soul and spirit of the Assistant Minister Star, along with the numinous spirit of luminous emptiness. Hidden beneath the Flower Canopy, it conceals its radiance and shines into the empty cavern. It extends for nine hundred and ninety li around it and corresponds above to the gateway southeast of the Assistant Minister Star. The star’s palace is called the Palace of the Primordial Treasure. Within the star dwells the Lady Sovereign of Empty Mystery and Transformative Numinous Power. Her surname is Ming Tong, her taboo name is Wan Xian, and her true name is Chang Yang. Upon her head she wears a seven-tiered jade crown like flying clouds, and she is dressed in a blue-patterned brocade robe …

Wearing the Nine-Light Night Candle, one constantly exhales the essence of black Qi and directs it into the Assistant Star, one of the officials of the Northern Dipper, causing the light of the Hidden Grotto to shine forth.

When practicing the Way of Flying Steps, a Daoist ritual of walking in accordance with the positions of the stars, one should visualize the person’s surname, given name, and appearance. At the same time, visualize one’s own feet treading on the Hidden Origin Star, with the Assistant Star aligned above one’s head. Press the left hand against the heart and point the right hand toward the Assistant Star. Tap the teeth twelve times, swallow a mouthful of saliva, hold the breath briefly, and softly recite the spell:

“Tread upon the Celestial Ladle and fly through the Feathered Gate. Pass in and out among the Three Lives; escape the body and vanish, transforming form and shadow into ten thousand manifestations. Let the spirit be calm and the Qi settled; refine and deliver the immortal soul. Let the whole body ascend together, clad in brocade skirts, with interwoven streamers of ringing bells hanging down and tiger patterns upon the body. Cry out to the Five Emperors and ride the chariot of radiant clouds. Rise to the Northern Dawn and pay court to the Sovereign Lord.”

After reciting, hold the breath briefly and pause. Then bring the feet together and tread upon the Celestial Pivot Star, walking alone back and forth for three circuits. There is no need to visualize further or recite the spell. Once the ritual of treading the Dipper, walking in accordance with the positions of the Northern Dipper, is complete, visualize the spell again. Recite it once when first stepping onto the stars, then walk back and forth for three circuits. After completing them, return to the Celestial Pivot Star, face the Bright Yang Star, and chant the three sections of “羽章 of Wandering and Roaming through the Nine Dawns.” When the chant is finished, ascend the Celestial Ladle once more, tread upon the Bright Yang Star, and perform the Flying Steps.

羽章

The cloud ladle hangs down from the celestial cords;

the Nine Dippers rest in the jade-green void.

Purple canopies overlap, rising above the highest heavens;

mysterious essence shines in all eight directions.

Above are the immortal guests of the Nine Dawns,

chanting secret books of immortality.

Flying steps carry them roaming over the Northern River of Heaven,

to dwell forever with Heaven and Earth.

Reining in the chariot, I ascend the Mysterious Feather Terrace,

flying through the realm of the Nine Origins.

The Cavern of the Void is deep and remote;

the cloud ladle rises through empty space.

Below are those who gather and refine the true Way,

gazing up toward the radiant Jade Dawn Palace.

I walk three circuits upon the Bright Yang Star,

turn nine times and enter the depths of the hidden wilds.

With lofty strides I ascend to the dwelling of the Imperial Worthy,

and chant aloud the words of the Dragon’s Flight.

Jade skies shine over the north;

the branches of the jasper tree glimmer faintly green.

Nine numinous terraces arise within the void,

their refined radiance shining far into the distance.

The Celestial Gate turns, and layer upon layer of the netherworld unfolds,

through the passage of many tribulations.

I mount the chariot of feathered flight

and fly across the River of the Weaving Maiden.

I preserve the numinous and true, so it endures through constant change,

forever forgetting the turmoil of the world between Heaven and Earth.

These three sections come from the Upper Palace of Jade Clarity. The Jade Youths of the Nine Suns and the Jade Maidens of the Nine Florescences often chant them above the Radiant Dawn, bringing harmony and ease to body and soul, opening the hidden gates, and welcoming the numinous and true.

Anyone who practices the Flying Steps of the Seven Origins and the Way of walking the Nine Stars, if they lack these hymns, will… (the original text ends here unfinished).

If someone rashly ascends the Celestial Net—the order and hub of the Northern Dipper—and treads the Mysterious Dipper, thereby offending the Nine Stars, the Nine Stars will seize them. Their hun and po souls will be confined beneath the Dipper’s Net, leaving them deranged, unbalanced, and prone to anger and impulsive acts. Whoever recklessly practices this method will die within three years. This does not mean the Great Dao is unwilling to let people attain immortality; rather, people fail to understand the source of the Great Dao. How could anyone practice such a method without first studying it carefully?

The Nine Stars are the foundation of the Nine Heavens and the pure, luminous vital essence of Jade Clarity (the Daoist celestial realm). The Nine Souls, in turn, are formed from the luminous, numinous Qi of the Nine Stars. People know only the wonders of treading the Seven Stars, but not the numinous mysteries of the souls of the Nine Stars. It is not that the Seven Stars are unwilling to help people ascend to the Northern Dipper. Rather, people’s hun and Shen fear the numinous power of the Dipper Stars and dare not rise into the sky with them. Therefore, anyone wishing to cultivate the Way of Flying Steps should first understand the souls of the Dipper Stars.

The Nine Sovereigns are an inner, secret formula within a person, called “Empty Permanence.” If one practices according to the diagrams and instructions, how could one fail to ascend to the Northern Origin and pay homage to Huachen, a revered deity or celestial realm in Daoist heaven? This Daoist method is simply profound and mysterious: a precious secret kept by Jade Clarity and not transmitted to the lesser immortals. For this reason, few people succeed in mastering it. Those who understand the method will have the radiance of the Nine Stars shine within them. The Lords of the Nine Mornings will descend before their seat, and, moved by their devotion, the Dipper Souls will join together to support them as they ascend to the inner palace of the Nine Origins.

The Grand Marshal in the heavens of the Bright Yang Star governs affairs of state: above, he commands the perfected beings of the Nine Heavens; below, he supervises the flying immortals of the Five Sacred Peaks and leads the perfected adepts who study after him. He has authority over the merits and faults of the spirits of Heaven and Earth, and over the weight of their consequences. The Bright Yang Star extends 920 li around its circumference and is filled with glass and crystal. Within it stands a jade tree bearing blue fruits, where golden-winged birds perch. A single bite of naturally formed Blue Essence Jade Mushrooms extends one’s life by ninety thousand years.

This star has nine gates, and its radiance blazes in every direction across nine hundred million myriad li. On the star stands the Jade Tower of the Blue City, where the perfected adepts who abide with the Dipper dwell. It is called the Supreme Palace. The Lords of the Nine Mornings in the Jade Tower of the Blue City have the surname Shangyun. Their taboo name is Fayingrong, and their courtesy name is Dongdongyang Yaotianchui. They wear jade crowns of the Nine Mornings and blue feathered robes for flight, hold the Mysterious Diagram of the Dipper, and sit within the Jade Tower, where they keep the jade register of mysterious names. Practitioners should know the Lords of the Nine Mornings’ inner taboo names. Once they know them, the Jade Morning will shine down upon the Bright Yang Star and descend mysteriously to protect them, enabling them to fly through the Great Void and enter within the nine gates.

To practice the Way of Flying Steps, first face the Bright Yang Star. Press the right hand against the heart, point the left hand toward the northeast, hold the breath for nine counts, and click the teeth nine times…

Swallow your saliva three times, close your eyes, and visualize the surname, personal name, and appearance of the Lord of the Nine Mornings, so that he stands clearly before you.

Face the Star of Yangming and then pray softly:

“Flying Heaven of the Nine Mornings, dwelling above Xuankui, your might shakes the eight directions. You oversee decrees and investigate wrongdoing. Today I tread the myriad paths with flying steps, passing through without obstruction. The Nine Perfected Ones shine with me, and Heaven and Earth turn in motion. The schemes of ghosts and demons are thwarted; the rebellious are cut down. Those caught by the Three Bonds for their treachery will in time fall into ruin. Divine attendants guard me, granting me lofty blessings and abundant fortune, and the heart of Heaven. My body and bones take on a new form and fly; my hands grasp the Seven Bonds, my feet tread the Nine Gates. I travel on clouds and bring down rain, ascending into Taiwei.” When the rite is complete, turn left and stand on the Star of Yangming nine times. Face the Ghost Gate and hold your breath for three counts. Step onto the Star of Yin Jing with your left foot, then bring your right foot alongside it, and breathe freely.

The Star of Yin Jing is a celestial sovereign who governs official fortune and noble rank: above, it commands the stars of Heaven; below, it commands the myriad spirits. The fates and official fortunes of those who study the immortals and cultivate the Dao, as well as those of the common people, all fall under its charge. The area around the Star of Yin Jing extends for five hundred and fifty li, covered with glass and crystal. There are jade trees there, whose black fruit is where golden-winged birds perch. Mysterious mushrooms and jade syrup grow there of their own accord; a single taste can extend one’s life by fifty thousand years.

The star has five gates, each sending forth four rays of light, whose blazing radiance illuminates nine hundred million myriad li. Above, within the gates, stands a five-colored jade tower where the Perfected One Who Treads on Kui resides. It is called the Central Origin Palace. To the north of the five-colored jade tower lives the Lord of the Northern Upper Mornings. His surname is Yuying, his personal name is Xuanshang [one character is missing here in the original], and his courtesy name is Changyang. His refined patterns kindle a bright radiance. He wears a crown of mysterious essence jade and a dark feather robe, holds a five-colored feather staff, and sits within the jade tower.

If a person’s name is recorded on the Vermilion Terrace of Mysterious Names, that person can learn the inner taboo name of the Lord of the Northern Upper Mornings. One who knows this inner name can cause the Lord to shine down upon the Star of Yin Jing and descend into the Mysterious Realm. Practicing this method enables one to fly through the heavens and ascend within the five gates.

To practice the flying-step method, begin on the Star of Yin Jing. Point your left hand toward the star corresponding to your birth year, and place your right hand over your heart. Hold your breath for five counts, click your teeth five times, and swallow your saliva five times. Close your eyes and visualize the personal name, courtesy name, and appearance of the Lord of the Northern Upper Mornings, so that he stands clearly upon the Star of Yin Jing. Then pray softly:

“Mysterious Morning, Northern Spirit, essence of the Five Qi; your form is concealed within the Six Cycles, while a radiant star is hidden in your heart. The sun and moon shine upon one another, joining to form the Three Lights. Today is an auspicious day. I tread the astral pattern and step among the stars, ascending to the Purple Court; I open Heaven’s Gate and receive the blessings of Vermilion Radiance. May I enjoy endless life, hold a noble official rank, and have all my wishes fulfilled…”

Facing an auspicious direction, practice the method of “zhen”—here meaning a cultivation method of uprightness and steadfast observance—and you may rise into the air and ascend. Riding beneath the Flower Canopy, you can roam through Yuqing, the Daoist realm of the highest heavens, and travel up to Beichen.

The nine Perfected Ones ride in procession, all turning to the left and facing the Yin Essence Star. Circle upward around it five times, then turn toward your natal star. Stand upright and hold your breath three times. Step onto the Bi Star with your left foot, then bring your right foot alongside it and resume breathing. Do not step on the Perfected Ones Star; step only on the Bi Star.

The Perfected Ones Star is the celestial Minister of Works, who governs the immortals. Above, it oversees the high Perfected Ones of the Nine Heavens; in the middle, it watches over the numinous immortals of the Five Sacred Peaks; below, it commands those who cultivate the Dao. All who belong to the lineage of the true immortals fall under its jurisdiction. The star’s domain extends seven hundred and seventy li in every direction, and is filled with glass and crystal. There are jade trees there bearing yellow fruit, where golden-winged birds perch. Yellow essence and jade fungus grow there naturally; eating even a single bite can extend one’s life by thirty million years.

This star has twelve gates, each with four rays of light whose blazing radiance shines for nine hundred million li. On the star stands a Yellow Terrace and a jade tower, which the Perfected Ones call the Palace of the True Origin. The mistress of the Yellow Terrace and jade tower is the Immortal Lady Huachen. Her surname is Gui Ping, her taboo name is Miaoyin Guang, and her courtesy name is Tongdu Yuandu. Her skin is smooth and white as fat. She wears a Flying Dawn jeweled crown and a blue feather robe, and holds the blue register of the Dipper. She sits within the jade tower. Those whose names are recorded in the mystic registers and who possess a Fangzhu—a credential used in Daoist cultivation and the transmission of ritual arts—should know the Lady Huachen’s inner taboo name. Once you know it, the Lady Huachen will shine down from above, and the Perfected Ones will also descend. Cultivating this Dao allows you to fly through the vast heavens and enter within the twelve gates.

In practicing the method of flying steps, never step on the Perfected Ones Star. Both feet must be brought together on the Bi Star. This is what is meant by “resting beneath the Flower Canopy.”

The Northern Elder, the True Lord, said: “If you wish to rise up and ascend, do not offend the Perfected Ones. If you wish to fly, do not step wrongly among the Heavenly Net—the order of the stars in the sky. If you wish to become an immortal, you should bow to the Lady Huachen. When practicing the Dao, avoid the Perfected Ones Star and stand on the Bi Star. Bow to the Perfected Ones, pay homage to the Lady Huachen, and pray to fly up into the air.”

The Bi Star is also called “Emptiness,” and the Assistant Star is also called “Constancy.” “Constancy” means that which is always manifest; “Emptiness” means that which is hidden and unseen. These taboo names must not be taught by word of mouth. They may be transmitted at the Lady Huachen’s seat after offerings of sheep and geese, a rite of reverence to Heaven, and the tearing of white silk to swear an oath. Careless disclosure will bring the punishment of wind-knives upon seven generations of ancestors and one’s deceased father.

During the ritual, stand on the Bi Star, press your right hand against your heart, and point northwest with your left hand. Hold your breath nine times, click your teeth nine times, and swallow your saliva nine times. Close your eyes and visualize the principal image of the Immortal Lady Huachen. Then remain standing on the Perfected Ones Star and recite softly:

The Assistants of Great Dawn, who connect the Dao with truth, emit radiant light. Nine kinds of refined Qi gather into purple clouds and mist; rosy light flows and shines across the celestial realms in all ten directions. Above, they govern the primal balance; below, they guide the immortals.

Today, in practicing the method of flying steps, respectfully bow and invite the Perfected One. First, seek the ability to travel through the air; second, seek to make the body invisible; third, aspire to ascend to the upper realm; fourth, aspire to obtain a dragon-patterned robe, a feather robe, a brocade mantle, and a blue skirt; ride a carriage bearing the Eight Auspicious Scenes—the eight visions of the immortal realms—roam the Nine Profound Heavens, and enter the heavenly lodgings to ride in the same carriage as the Celestial Emperor.

When the bows are complete, turn to the left, face the Assistant Star, and make seven turns. Face the Perfected One and hold your breath for three breaths. Step with your left foot onto the position of the Dark Nether Star, then bring your right foot forward to stand beside it, and resume breathing.

The Dark Nether Star is the celestial realm’s roaming warrior deity, charged with punishing rebels. Above, he commands the ghosts and spirits of the Nine Heavens; in the middle, he assists the Three Officials of the Northern Emperor; below, he watches over the people. All rebels and disloyal subjects, all who are violent and sow disorder, fall under his authority. The Dark Nether Star’s domain extends eight hundred miles and is filled with colored glaze and crystal. Within it stands a jade tree bearing red fruit, where golden-winged birds perch. Red numinous mushrooms grow naturally on the tree, and a liquid like jade nectar flows from them. A single taste can extend one’s life by eighty million years.

The Dark Nether Star has three gates, each with four rays of light, their flames shining for nine hundred million myriad miles. Above, within the star, stand vermilion terraces and jade towers, where the Perfected One Who Emerged from the Dipper resides. His palace is called the Palace of the Hidden Pivot. On its vermilion terrace and jade tower stands a flying canopy. The Lord of Dawn is surnamed Dark Pivot, named Settled and Proclaimed Awareness, and styled Dharma’s Bright Measure. He sets the pillar of Heaven in motion, wears a Threefold Flower Crown of Precious Dawn, is clad in a flying robe of vermilion brocade, and holds the tally of life and numinous power as he sits within the jade tower. If someone’s name is recorded in the mysterious registers and jade rolls, and they know the secret inner name of the Lord of Dawn beneath the flying canopy, the canopy will descend and shine upon the Dark Nether Star. Practicing this Way enables one to fly through the vastness of space and ascend within the three gates.

To practice the Way of flying steps, first stand at the position of the Dark Nether Star. Place your right hand over your heart and point your left hand toward Heaven. Hold your breath for nine breaths, click your teeth three times, and swallow your saliva three times. Close your eyes and visualize the surname, name, and appearance of the Lord beneath the flying canopy, as though he were standing on the Dark Nether Star. Then recite softly:

“The Heavenly Perfected carry out the Great Dao, stepping amid the light and shadows of the sun and moon, concealing their traces. The Seven Luminaries shine brilliantly; the Nine Lords of Dawn descend together. They hold the balance of Heaven and tread upon the flying stars. On the left are their assistants, clad in armor of fire; on the right, vermilion warriors stand guard. Their might shakes the celestial realms in all ten directions, and their radiance spreads throughout the Highest Clarity. First they slay those who plot rebellion, then they punish the demons and spirits. All who dare offend the righteous Way are dealt with by the blade. Within the Three Bonds, all bow their heads and obey. They transform and travel back and forth, going wherever their will takes them, and roam the Flowering Court. They fly through the void with measured steps, reaching straight to the abode of the Imperial Spirit.”

When you have finished reciting, turn to the left three times.

Face the sky and hold your breath three times. Step forward with your left foot onto the Star of Danyuan (丹元星, the star that governs human lifespan and the registers of life). Then bring your right foot forward beside your left, and breathe freely.

The Star of Danyuan is the Lord of the Dipper in heaven. It governs the names and registers of life and oversees the genealogical records of the Nine Heavens. Above, it commands the names of ghosts and spirits; below, it administers the life registers of Dao practitioners and ordinary people. There is no heaven or earth beyond its jurisdiction. The Star of Danyuan extends across seven hundred and twenty li, and is surrounded on every side by water crystal like colored glass. A red tree grows within the star and bears white fruit; it is where the Golden-Winged Bird roosts. Golden essence arises naturally within the tree and can be refined into a paste. Eating a single mouthful adds seventy thousand years to one’s life.

The Star of Danyuan has seven gates, each radiant on all four sides, their blazing light shining across nine hundred million myriad li. On the star stand a White Terrace and a Golden Tower, where the Perfected One Who Treads the Cosmic Order (攝紀真人, who governs the order and regulation of the stars) resides. Within the palace are also the White Terrace, the Golden Tower, and the Perfected One’s Golden Chief, the Seven Lords of the Morning. The Seven Lords of the Morning have the surname Shang Kai; their name is Ming Tongguang, and their courtesy name is Zhu Huanyuan Bian Wudao. They wear a seven-jeweled crown that flies through the heavens, dress in white brocade skirts that fly through the air, and hold the registers of the Azure Origin. They sit within the Golden Tower. If someone’s name is recorded at the Mysterious Register Terrace of Kun (玄名昆台, the place where Daoist immortals and Perfected Ones are entered in the registers), and that person knows the Seven Lords’ secret names, the Seven Lords will descend from the Star of Danyuan and shine upon them. Practicing this method enables one to fly through the vastness of space and ascend through the seven gates.

To practice the method of flying steps, first stand upon the Star of Danyuan. Place your right hand over your heart and point your left hand toward the Celestial Pass. Hold your breath seven times, tap your teeth three times, and swallow your saliva three times. Close your eyes and visualize the Seven Lords’ surname, name, and appearance, clearly manifesting on the Star of Danyuan. Then recite softly:

“Fly and tread the cosmic order; ascend by steps to Danyuan. Ride the Chief and descend to the lodgings of the stars; call forth the soul of life. Erase the register of the dead and enter the register of the living. The blue and white tablets are divided; the three unite to form the Dao. May my lifespan be long and my fortunes smooth; may my years be blessed and enduring, and may I live alongside the Radiant Morning. May my fleshly body ascend, my bones grow light; may I ride the radiance and mount the clouds, clothed in immortal robes and feathered garments. Bells ring in flowing succession, five-colored light shines, and I ascend through the seven gates.”

When you have finished reciting, circle the star and turn upward seven times, then turn toward the Celestial Pass and hold your breath seven times. Step forward with your left foot onto the North Pole Star (北極星, the star that governs promotion and advancement). Then bring your right foot forward beside your left, and breathe freely.

The North Pole Star is the Great Constant in heaven. It governs promotion and advancement: above, it commands the Perfected Ones of the Nine Heavens; in the middle, the flying immortals of the Five Sacred Peaks; below, it administers the ranks of Dao practitioners. It oversees the successive levels attained by all who cultivate, accumulate merit, and realize the Dao. The North Pole Star extends across seven hundred and seventy li and is likewise surrounded on every side by water crystal like colored glass. A black tree grows within the star and bears white fruit; it is where the Golden-Winged Bird roosts. Mysterious mushrooms arise naturally within the tree…

The Water-Essence Star, one of the northern constellations, has an entrance. Eating its water essence extends one’s life by fifty thousand years with a single mouthful. The star gate has eight passages, each sending out four kinds of light that shine across nine hundred million myriad miles. Inside the gate stands a jade terrace and tower. The Perfected One who treads the Dipper according to the stars is titled Lord of Flying Splendor of the Northern Dawn, in the Jade Tower on the Mysterious Terrace of the Palace of Commemorated Brightness.

Lord Flying Splendor’s surname is Mingling, his personal name Changming, and his assumed name Abyssal Cavern, Source of Prosperity. He wears the Crown of Flying Essence and Splendor of the Upper Origin, is clad in a purple brocade robe, and holds a jade register of the Nine Dippers. He sits upright inside the jade tower. If someone’s name appears in the Mysterious Register and the records of the Golden Terrace, and they know Lord Flying Splendor’s secret personal name, he will shine down from above and descend to the North Pole. Practicing this way enables one to fly through the vast heavens and rise within the Eight Gates.

To practice the method of flying steps, first stand beneath the North Star. Rest your right hand over your heart and point your left hand toward the Golden Gate. Hold your breath for eight counts, click your teeth three times, and swallow your saliva three times. Close your eyes and visualize Lord Flying Splendor’s surname, personal name, and appearance. After clicking your teeth, stand beneath the North Star and softly recite:

“Heaven’s body moves according to the numbers three and five, the measures used in Daoism to describe the motions of the heavenly bodies. The Middle Origin revolves. I harness the Dipper and ride the dawn Qi; I keep the three destinies and wander amid clouds and rosy mists. May this day be auspicious. I aspire to the way of the immortals. Please inscribe my name on a jade slip and enter it in the Purple Register. Grant me a blue jacket, a feather robe, a vermilion sash, and a brocade skirt. May the carriage of the Eight Luminaries carry me up to Heaven and place me among the ranks of the immortal ministers. Lord of the North, hear my prayer; may everything I think of and seek come to pass.”

When you have finished reciting, turn and rotate toward the stars eight times, then face west and hold your breath for eight counts. Next, pivot your left foot and step toward the Star of the Heavenly Pass. Bring your right foot forward to stand beside your left, then breathe normally.

The Star of the Heavenly Pass is the Lord of Heaven above, in charge of the workings of Heaven and Earth. It governs the changing of the seasons, the growth of all things, the obstruction and openness of Heaven and Earth, and the cycles of calamity and convergence. Its body extends nine hundred miles around, and its interior is entirely made of colored glaze and crystal. A Tree of Three Blossoms grows there, bearing five-colored fruit and serving as a roost for golden-winged birds. Nine-flavored mushroom balm grows naturally on the tree. A single mouthful makes the body shine with nine colors and grants a lifespan of up to ninety thousand years.

The Star of the Heavenly Pass has a gate that emits nine kinds of light. These gather and set in motion the Qi of the Nine Heavens, their flames shining across nine hundred million myriad miles. Inside the gate stands a nine-tiered jade tower. The Perfected One who rides a dragon is titled Lord of the Northern Canopy and Dawn, the Nine Origins, Total Cloud, in the Nine-Tiered Jade Tower of the Palace of Passes and Convergences.

This Perfected One’s surname is Mysterious Pivot, his personal name Turning Light, and his assumed name Assembly of Origins, End of Brightness, Heavenly Disciple. He wears the Treasure Crown of the Nine Origins, is clad in a nine-colored brocade robe, and holds the Seal of Divine Radiance. He sits upright inside the jade tower. If someone’s name appears in the Mysterious Register and is recorded in the imperial chart of the Nine Heavens and the Jade Register…

If you already know the secret name of the Lord of the Northern Canopy at Dawn—the revered deity corresponding to the Northern Canopy star—the Lord of the Northern Canopy will descend from Heaven and protect the practitioner. The practitioner can also use this Daoist method to fly through the Great Void and enter the Gate of Heaven.

When practicing the Way of Flying Steps, the method of pacing the Dipper according to the positions of the constellations, stand on the Celestial Pass star. Press your left hand against your chest and point your right hand toward the Earthly Gate, the direction of the gate on the ground. Hold your breath for one count, click your teeth three times, and swallow your saliva three times. Then close your eyes and visualize the Lord of the Northern Canopy at Dawn—his surname, secret name, and appearance—as though he were standing on the Celestial Pass star. Then softly recite:

“The Celestial Origin turns the Celestial Pass; the Earthly Order turns the guiding bond. The Nine Spirits move in harmony, and the Three and Five shift in mutual succession. The four sevens, bannered stars, and the Five Emperors come and go. I receive the Mysterious Dao, step into the Void, and ascend the Jade Pivot. My body is clothed in the stars of the Dipper; my feet tread upon the stars of the Dipper. Bells ring out in flowing tones, and majestic radiance blazes forth. Those who follow me receive good fortune; those who oppose me fall into decline. I travel through the realm of heavenly truth, and the road stretches open for ten thousand miles. Riding a dark-blue carriage, I soar upward; my soul ascends and my body takes flight. I leave calamity behind and rise into the Heavenly Palace of Taiwei.”

When you have finished, turn once around on the star’s position, then face the Earthly Gate and hold your breath for one count. Turn your left foot and step onto the Turning Star position; bring your right foot forward to meet it, then breathe out.

The Venerable Lord of the Assistant Star is the star of the Jade Emperor. The Assistant Star is also called “Constancy,” symbolizing the enduring and Yang energy, and presides over the affairs of flying immortals. It governs the divine officials and immortals of the Nine Heavens, the Nine Earths, the Five Sacred Peaks, and the Four Great Rivers; all of them are under its command. The star’s domain extends for nine hundred and ninety li, and its surroundings appear like colored glaze and crystal. Within the star grows a Green Radiance Tree, which naturally bears characters of the Nine Tones. A green, three-legged bird perches in its branches. The tree also produces naturally formed Glazed Zhi Flowers, immortal herbs shaped like lingzhi mushrooms. A single bite makes one a perfected being alongside the Jade Emperor.

The Assistant Star has eight gates, linked to the Qi of the eight directions. Four rays of light shine from the gates, illuminating the Nine Heavens. Within the star stands a Jade Tower filled with purple Qi, where three perfected beings who oversee registers of destiny wander. This Jade Tower of Purple Qi is also called the Palace of the Emperor’s Seat. The Imperial Lord who dwells there is the Lord of the Nine Mornings. His surname is Jingchang, his secret name is Changwu □, and his courtesy name is Xuan Jie Zi Kong Zheng Shang Kai Yan Tou Jian Feijing. He wears a jade crown and a robe of nine colors, holds a fire bell, and sits within the Jade Tower.

If you bear a Mysterious Name, meaning a name entered in the registers of the Shangqing immortals, and know the Imperial Lord’s secret name, he will manifest and descend from the Assistant Star to protect the practitioner. The practitioner can also use this method to fly through the heavens and enter the eight gates.

When practicing this Way of Flying Steps, stand on the Assistant Star. Press your right hand against your chest and point your left hand toward the Yinghuo star, Mars. Hold your breath for three counts, click your teeth three times, and swallow your saliva three times. Then close your eyes and visualize the Imperial Lord—his surname, secret name, and appearance—as though he were standing on the Assistant Star. Then softly recite the incantation:

Heaven and Earth join together, and the Three Destinies connect with the numinous Qi. Step across the celestial lodges and fly through the Nine Stars: hold the Hidden Book in your left hand and the Feather Scripture in your right. Pay homage to the Emperor, receive the title he bestows, and cross beyond the Canopy Star to soar through the Purple Court. Today, as you practice the Way, blessings gather from every direction. Receive blessings vast and deep, and enjoy long life forever. Feathers grow from your body, and you ascend to Jade Clarity.

When the rite is complete, turn three times while standing on the star, then face south and hold your breath for three breaths. Turn your left foot back and step onto the Assistant Star again. Step forward with your right foot and regulate your breathing.

The Assistant Star is the true star of the Great Emperor. “Emptiness upon emptiness” means a constant, hidden emptiness; it governs transformations without fixed direction. The star extends 990 li in every direction and lies amid scenes like colored glaze and crystal. Within it grows a Tree of Three Blossoms, arising naturally. The Jade Writ of the Nine Heavens records that a phoenix with a golden beak perches in the tree, holding a fire bell in its mouth. From within the bell arise the natural lights of the Seven Luminaries. Whoever obtains and consumes a single mouthful of this radiance can become a Perfected One alongside the Great Emperor.

The star has nine gates, linked to one another. The Nine Heavens Gate sends out light in all four directions, illuminating the boundless space beyond the Eight Extremities. There stand jade terraces and purple halls, where three Perfected Ones, full of Yang energy, wander; they are called the “Supreme Venerables.” In the palace are jade towers and purple halls. The Emperor’s Perfected One, Lord Yuanchen, has the surname Youkong and the name Kongwu. His earlier names were Yinyuan, Jueming, Yanghui, Youliao, and Yuantou. He wears a flying celestial jade crown and a dragon robe of the Nine Heavens, holds the Emperor’s seal, and sits in a purple hall.

If a practitioner’s mystic name has been entered in the registers of the Nine Heavens, and they know the inner taboo name of the Emperor’s Perfected One, they can make their body disappear and conceal their form. By cultivating this Way, they can ascend within the Nine Gates.

When practicing the art of flying steps, stand on the Assistant Star. Press your right hand against your heart and point your left hand toward the Northern Dipper. Hold your breath for five breaths, click your teeth three times, and swallow your saliva seven times. Close your eyes and visualize the surname, name, and appearance of the Emperor’s Perfected One, Lord Yuanchen. Then step back onto the Assistant Star and recite softly:

“The Dao joins with the Three Subtleties; through the power of the mysterious void, the body is raised and made Perfect. Entering and leaving the constant Way and the realm of emptiness, I evade form and conceal my traces at Heaven’s Pass. I drift through the Eight Extremities, riding sunlight and purple mist. I tread the Nine Heavens, transforming ten thousand million times. I wander at ease by the Northern Canopy Star and call upon the Gouchen Star. Whatever I seek or desire comes to pass as spoken. My life endures as long as Heaven and Earth; I preserve my allotted years and shine forever, like the light of dawn.”

When you have finished reciting, turn five times while standing on the star, then face the Northern Dipper and hold your breath for seven breaths. Turn your left foot twice and bring both feet together on the Bright Yang Star. Then set out from the Bright Yang Star and circle the Nine Stars using the Yu step, the prescribed ritual footwork of Daoism, going back and forth nine times. The scripture continues beyond this point; the words that follow, “all need not…,” begin the next passage.

After finishing the incantation, visualize yourself returning to the star Bi, sitting upright and resting above it, and imagine the celestial canopy that protects you. Then, as before, cover yourself with your robe and close your eyes. Imagine yourself amid crimson clouds, rising into the sky on the Celestial Circuit—the pattern traced by the stars as they move—until you reach the Gate of the Nine Heavens. Follow the Celestial Circuit through nine rotations. When you are done, imagine yourself falling through the air and returning to the star chart. Next, rub your eyes nine times and knead the points just in front of your ears nine times. Then perform the “Great Circumcelestial Incantation”: click your teeth nine times, face northwest, and recite:

“Most High Ninefold Spirit, August Lord Hua (the name of a revered deity), you command all the stars in heaven and set the sun, moon, and five planets (the Three Luminaries) in motion, bringing the seasons around and generating the Five Phases. May I cultivate the Dao and attain perfection on this day, with all the gods duly informed. May the Five Sacred Peaks, the Four Great Rivers, the sacred mountains throughout the land, and the officials of Heaven, Earth, and Water all come to protect me. The sun stirs up thunder and lightning; the Six Yin release clouds. Fierce beasts drive out every kind of demon and monster, scattering them in all directions; venomous dragons devour ghosts, and every source of evil is subdued. Whoever plots against me will be punished; whoever harms me will be tormented. Those who love me will enjoy long life, and those who wish me well will become immortals. I bear a numinous writ on my body and wear the talisman of the Seven Primordials (stellar deities including the seven stars of the Northern Dipper). The light of the Golden and Fire Bells shines over my whole body. I wear the celestial canopy on my head, tread upon auspicious clouds, hold celestial essence in my mouth, and grasp the Gate of Heaven in my hand. I can transform at will in the empty sky, multiplying into thousands upon thousands; Metal, Wood, Water, and Fire take form of their own accord. By the Yu Steps, the Daoist ritual steps, I fly between the Gates of the Nine Heavens, entering and leaving the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing), and endure as long as Heaven and Earth.”

After reciting, click your teeth three times and swallow Qi fourteen times. This completes the “Way of the Nine Mornings,” the Nine Mornings cultivation method.

The Way of the Nine Mornings should be practiced on the following dates. In the first, seventh, fourth, and tenth months—the four first months of the seasons—choose either the fifth or ninth day of the first ten-day period, and practice at dawn. In the second, eighth, fifth, and eleventh months—the four middle months of the seasons—choose either the fifteenth or nineteenth day of the middle ten-day period, and practice at noon. In the third, ninth, sixth, and twelfth months—the four last months of the seasons—choose either the twenty-fifth or twenty-ninth day of the final ten-day period, and practice at midnight. Choose only one of these six dates each month, and practice three times a month, for a total of thirty-six times a year, corresponding to the turning of the Celestial Gate, the movements of the Nine Heavens, and the 360 degrees of the heavens. By cultivating the Dao on these dates and writing down the names of the Nine Heavens, one can pass through the cycle of “Yang Nine and Hundred Six,” an ancient term for periods of calamity, and keep oneself safe from great disaster. Only after nine years of cultivation can one safely fly along the Celestial Circuit, travel through the air, and cross beyond the celestial cycle.

The Golden Tablets of the Mysterious Celestial Circuit of the Nine Mornings say: “Those who cultivate the Way of Flying through the Nine Mornings should also…”

(The original text ends here.)

On days designated for “Treading the Celestial Net,” one may also practice this method, pursuing further the path of ascent to immortality and distant travels. The Northern Dipper constantly watches over practitioners. If practicing both methods, one should first practice the Nine Mornings method, then the Treading the Celestial Net method. The two methods use different incantations, but fundamentally belong to the same tradition.

Treading the Celestial Net

The Lord Emperor of Taiwei, a revered deity of the heavens, once transmitted to the Lord of the Imperial Clarity Grotto of Truth the methods of Treading the Celestial Net and Flying Across the Earth’s Markings.

Following the position of the Dark Dipper—the Northern Dipper—the practitioner climbs the star Kui and summons the Nine Perfected Ones; rides a flying dragon through the Three Fates and drifts among the Two Lives; holds fast to the Three Treasures, avoids the Six Harms, withdraws into the Six Yin, enters the Six Markers, guards the Celestial Hero, and protects the way to longevity. The practitioner nourishes the Origin Assistant, treads upon the Great Assistant, employs the circulating elixir Qi, ascends to Wenchang, unfolds and traverses the Nine Paths, and takes a place among the Nine Elders. After practicing in this way for twenty years, one may receive the immortal scriptures and become a Perfected One of Highest Clarity.

From a distance, ordinary people see the seven stars and think they are close together. They do not know that walking among them by this method means crossing an immense distance. A Daoist who knows only that the Celestial Net can be trodden, but does not know that the hun and po souls have not followed the body, will tread in vain. It is not that the body cannot lead the souls; rather, the souls fear the might of the seven stars and dare not follow the body upward. Thus the three hun souls cannot govern the seven po souls, and the souls scatter. Even if one’s body alone treads the Celestial Net, the spirits will not accompany it, making the effort futile.

To tread the Celestial Net, first clear the mind and spirit and maintain inner stillness. Think neither of sorrow and worry nor of longing for honor, wealth, or sensual pleasures. Then circle around three times, climb to the stars’ positions, and recite the invocation to inform the spirits, so that the two souls, hun and po, may cross the numinous pass together. In this way the body can relax completely, and in a hazy, drifting state one forgets oneself. The rite must be performed with solemnity and purity. Treading by this method feels like walking on empty air. After one year of practice, one can avoid evil influences; after two, the calamities of war; after three, the peril of death; and after four, one can become an earthly immortal. A thousand kinds of calamity and ten thousand forms of evil Qi will dare not approach. From then on, blessings and good fortune will be without end; one can command spirits and ride flying dragons. Taiji bestows mushrooms of immortality and jade, while the Jade Emperor grants young attendants. After twenty-seven years of practice, one can become a Perfected One of Highest Clarity.

When walking, one must not cross the Celestial Net. The Celestial Net is the boundary formed by connecting the stars’ positions in order. To cross it is to offend the Way of Heaven, a grave taboo. One must also not step on the star of the Perfected One while treading the Celestial Net; this is a major prohibition. Anyone who violates either taboo must remove their head covering and bow toward the star pattern of the Celestial Net to confess their offense.

The Celestial Net diagram is made of cloth, nine feet long and six feet wide. The stars’ positions are marked on the cloth: draw the stars with a blue brush and the Celestial Net with vermilion. Keep the diagram in a clean box, and burn incense before taking it out for each ritual. Seven Jade Maidens attend the practitioner and recite the scriptures; seven Jade Youths guard the stars’ positions. Women who tread the Celestial Net use a diagram made of deep red silk. This is the method of Treading the Celestial Net transmitted by the Lord Emperor of Taiwei.

Act cautiously and follow the method in the Scripture of the Celestial Guideline (Tiangang Jing). First, burn incense at the place where the rite will be performed, and hold your breath for seven counts. Then walk three circuits around the outside of the seven stars of the Northern Dipper, stepping first on the Yin Essence Star and then circling to the Yang Brightness Star. Breathe again only after completing this. Next, step on the seven stars in turn and walk to the Yang Brightness Star.

Face the Yang Brightness Star and hold your breath again. Silently recite in your heart: “Yang Brightness Star, Great Dipper Star, Mysterious Pole Star, Star of Literary Brilliance: please let [so-and-so’s] Hun and Po souls travel together within the Celestial Guideline.” After reciting this, step first on the Yang Brightness Star with your left foot, then on the Yin Essence Star with your right. Silently recite: “Yin Essence Star, Northern Pole Star, Supreme One’s Jade Pivot: please let [so-and-so’s] Hun and Po souls pass together through the Divine Ford.”

Next, step on the Northern Pole Star with your left foot and silently recite: “Light of the Northern Pole: please let [so-and-so’s] Hun and Po souls return to the Mysterious Constellation.” Then step on the Celestial Pass Star with your right foot, bring your left foot forward to stand beside your right, breathe again, and recite the invocation.

If you cannot hold your breath long enough to complete the Celestial Guideline, you may breathe on the Cinnabar Origin Star, hold your breath again, and softly recite:

“The Five Phases—Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth—shift and transform in turn; the seven stars shine with brilliance, and the Celestial Guideline’s power is boundless. The Assistant Star guards prosperity; the Aide Star dispels decline. Nine Perfected Ones, Supreme One, Supreme Ultimate, and Grand Tenuity; Jade Emperors of the Three Offices and the Three Venerable Ones, please drive away evil and falsehood. May Heaven move and Earth turn, and may the souls follow along, making me a flying immortal, surrounded by true light. May my name be entered in the Golden Chamber and the Jade Gate opened. Riding a dragon, may I rise into the sky, shine with the sun and moon, and roam the Highest Clarity. Clad in emerald robes, may my left foot tread on flowing lightning and my right hand command rushing thunder. May all evil spirits on Earth bow down and die, daring not to pursue me. If any harbor ill intent and spy on me, may they be cut down and destroyed. May the Emperor command Jade Maidens to attend and escort me, so that Hun, Zhen, Po, Shen, and body unite, and I ascend in flight.”

The Method of Walking in Reverse

Stop at the Celestial Pass Star, turn to face the Northern Pole Star, and softly recite:

“Supreme One, Primordial Constellation, Flower Canopy, Purple Spirit, Jade Chamber of the Northern Pole: conceal and nurture the light and forms; transform and nourish Jing and Qi. Mysterious Terrace of Grand Tenuity, Jade City of the Nine Perfected Ones: may [so-and-so] become a flying immortal, walk in the Cloud Court, walk the Celestial Guideline in reverse, and be reborn together with the Hun and Po souls. Riding a dragon, may I travel to the Radiant Palace and become an outstanding hero who has attained the Dao: wearing a jade pendant on the left and a golden bell at the right waist, clad in a tiger-patterned belt and dragon-patterned robes, summoning and commanding the Celestial Army; riding light and the Three Primes, may I ascend to the Highest Clarity.”

After reciting, hold your breath. Raise your left foot and step on the Northern Pole Star, then step on the Cinnabar Origin Star with your right. Raise your left foot again and step on the Mysterious Darkness Star. Finally, bring your right foot alongside your left and face the Perfected One Star. Breathe again, then softly recite… The original text ends here.

The Supreme Emperor of the Nine Essences of Taiji and the High Perfected Ones (revered Daoist gods and those who have attained the Dao) emerge and ascend to the realm of Upper Primordial Clarity. They enter and conceal themselves in the depths of the Mysterious Yin, nourishing all things.

A certain official and a certain emissary delight in the Way of the Immortals. The Jade Terrace suddenly opens, and the eight gates of the Golden Hall swing wide. They earnestly implore [a certain person].

With scriptures carried on the body and dressed in a crimson robe patterned with dragons and a blue-green skirt, one assists the sage ruler who follows the sovereign of Ziwei (the dwelling of the celestial emperor), riding beneath a dark canopy drawn by ten flying dragons. The numinous spirits are listed in the Primordial Register, alongside the sun and moon. After completing the invocation, hold the breath again: step forward with the left foot onto the Star of Assistance, one of the Northern Dipper’s celestial officials; step forward again; place the right foot on Yin Essence and step forward again; place the left foot on Yang Radiance and step forward again; then bring the right foot level with the left. Now breathe freely and recite softly:

“Celestial Dipper, upright and yang; Northern Dipper, turning, now high, now low. Turn the Primordial Mechanism forward; set the Numinous Net in motion behind. Bring peace to the Po-soul and well-being to the Hun-soul; let Hun and Po travel together with the body to Heaven. May I behold the High Supreme Emperor in the Golden Gate, supported on the right by the Immortal Mother and on the left by the Immortal Lord. The Immortals wear robes of purple and emerald, shimmering with flight; they are dressed in dragon robes and tiger skirts, bound with true headcloths, jade pendants at their necks, and halos of light all around them. They hold divine bells and wear golden pendants at their waists, chanting the wondrous chapter of the Seven Transformations of the Dongzhen Cavern.

“First born from the Nonbeing, then becoming a sovereign; flying through the Nine Paths, climbing the starry Net by treading the Northern Dipper. Taiyi (a revered Daoist deity) leads the way, with Xuanlang following behind. I will pass this oral formula on to a certain person: seated, you will be at ease; standing, you will also be at ease. Walk backward until you reach the place of honor, and you will become an Immortal Minister. The Five Viscera transform and generate things of their own accord, in correspondence with Heaven. May your wishes be fulfilled as your heart desires, and may all you seek come to pass. May all evil spirits submit and calamities be dispelled; may Heaven punish those who hate me, and may the dangers of water and fire fade away.”

The Method of Walking Backward

Hold the breath again and circle clockwise three times around the outside of the Northern Dipper, starting from Yang Radiance. After one circuit, return to Yang Radiance. Then breathe freely and recite:

“High Supreme Perfected One, Most Venerable of the Seven Luminaries (the deities of the seven celestial bodies), let me move in reverse and find the source of life. Let me tread upward upon the Celestial Origin, so that a certain person may become a flying Immortal and enter the Purple Gate.”

Then hold the breath again: place the left foot on Yang Radiance and the right foot on Yin Essence. First step forward, then place the right foot on Dark Nether and the left foot on Cinnabar Origin. Next, place the right foot on the Northern Pole and the left foot on the Celestial Gate. Step forward with the right foot and bring it level with the left. Then breathe freely and recite:

“Seven transformations turn and return; ascend through the Jade Mansions (the celestial stars). The Six Cycles support me, bringing me into accord with the Three Bonds. I tread beside the Jade Emperor: looking up to the High Supreme Realm on the left, turning back on the right. Teach me to ride the stars and soar aloft, ascending the Mysterious Way. I earnestly ask for the blessing of becoming a flying Immortal who never dies, so that I may roam Upper Clarity, ride in the splendid Threefold Plain carriage, wear a golden-green emerald skirt, and enter and leave the Nine Abodes. When I see the Northern Sovereign, I will pay my respects; when I see the Southern Perfected One, I will offer thanks. My name will be entered in the Immortal Terrace. I will be able to transform in a thousand ways, befriend sage rulers, and assist in bringing peace. May all my wishes be fulfilled…” (The original text ends here, unfinished.)

When this set of rites is complete, if anyone despises me or harms me, may he suffer death by the sword, cremation, or disaster in the grave. Whether the rite is performed in the proper order, in reverse, or backward, it will take effect.

After completing all three steps, raise both feet together to the position of the Yangming Star. Place the right hand over the heart and point the left hand toward the Xuanming Star. Hold the breath for three counts, click the teeth twenty-one times, and swallow the saliva twenty-seven times. This method is called “Seizing the Dipper.”

Silently recite the invocation:

“Yangming Taisu stands in the position of Chen; within the Yellow Chamber dwells a great spirit. With his left hand he supports the August Sovereign, and with his right he commands the perfected beings of the highest rank. A dragon holds his emerald robes in its mouth; he wears brocade embroidered with flying tigers, a jade talisman at his waist, and a lotus crown on his head. He enters and leaves the Void; golden perfection and jade light surround him. Majestic and numinous, he is called Yangming. May you tread upon red mist and recite the Cavern Chapters. Grant [name] a hidden text and instruct him to tread the Dipper’s outline, circling it three times. May [name] keep his thoughts single and walk by the Dipper, forgetting his bodily form and becoming a flying immortal, transcending the Void and traveling through the air. May his name be entered in the registers of Shangqing; may he ride a dark carriage drawn by dragons, and may all that his heart desires be fulfilled. May the Three Venerables unite in De, link the hun and po within the body, and bestow spirit officials, jade maidens, and jade youths. If anyone harms [name], may thunder and wind punish him, sever the tongues of the wicked, and bring misfortune upon their descendants in every direction.”

When you have finished reciting the invocation, focus your mind and visualize yourself suddenly forgetting your body. After a long while, descend. This completes the method of “Seizing the Dipper.”

Next, raise both feet together to the position of the Yinjing Star. Place the left hand over the heart and point the right hand toward the Perfected Star. Hold the breath for three counts, click the teeth three times, and swallow the saliva three times. This method is called “Climbing the Ladle.”

Silently recite the invocation:

“Yinjing Xuansu: within the Gate of Life at the Flowery Palace dwell the Jade Emperor and the Supreme Lord of the North Pole. You wear a splendid collar embroidered with phoenixes and a skirt patterned with emerald dragons; at your waist hangs a tiger-shaped bell, in your hand you hold a numinous fungus, and on your head you wear a vermilion crown. You are called the Most High Lord of Yinjing. Grant [name] a hidden text, so that he may tread the Seven Origins, climb the Ladle, ascend, and then travel through the Numinous Pass. May you restrain the seven po from without and govern the three hun from within; refine away the worldly burdens borne by the hun and po, nourish the embryo breath and original Shen, and keep the hun and po true to themselves, so that they may become immortals together with [name]. May he fly through Shangqing, harmonize his breath, regain the freshness of youth, and find all places and all things as he wishes, with no difficulty. If anyone harms [name], may his body perish, and may the Three Officials, in their majesty, subdue the Six Heavens and command the spirits.”

After completing the method of “Climbing the Ladle,” raise both feet together to the position of the Bixing Star, with the feet pointing toward the Perfected Star. Make four prostrations, then kneel. Hold the breath for four counts, click the teeth four times, and swallow the saliva four times. This method is called “Receiving the Perfected While Kneeling.”

Silently recite the invocation:

“Taiyi’s Nine Essences, the Bright Perfected of the Upper Origin, command the pivot of the Orthodox Way. You breathe out and in purple mist; your body radiates golden light, your jade-colored form shines, and your majestic radiance illuminates the ten directions. May you govern the sun, moon, and stars, harmonize Yang and Yin, and regulate the original Qi…”

By cultivating primordial Qi (vital energy) and changing the breath one has long carried, the practitioner can enter the Mysterious Gate, the crucial doorway to inner cultivation, and reach the Golden Chamber and Jade Portal, symbols of a pure and sacred realm of practice. He sets out from the four gates of the Northern Wing, riding the Qi of the Eight Radiances as he roams the realm of Great Origin. He wears brocade robes patterned with dragons and garments patterned with phoenixes; he dons a tiger-patterned, emerald-colored flying skirt, crimson banners, and a green cape. A seven-edged belt of purple feathers encircles his waist, and he wears a Fu crown. He dwells above the Nine Vacuities and flies beneath the Celestial Abyss, calling himself “the Utmost Perfect One of the Jade Emperor’s Nine Heavens.”

With devoted love for the Great Dao, he teaches someone a secret text. He then climbs Mount Bikui, a star name associated with the Northern Dipper, and pays homage to the numinous lord, asking for a cinnabar scripture as the means to attain long life. He cultivates the celestial Way of Three and Five, flying through the mysterious realms in all eight directions. The Qi of his Five Viscera naturally fills him, and he becomes a superior-grade flying immortal. He then obtains the wings of a flying immortal and becomes a minister of the Jade Emperor’s Later Sage, ranked among the high ministers and riding clouds in a flying carriage. All his wishes are fulfilled, and no baleful force can trouble him. If an evildoer harms him, the culprit’s trace is revealed and the door bursts open. Once the practice of Joining with the Real is complete, he stands with his feet together upon the Star of Dark Mystery. He rests his right hand over his heart and points his left hand toward the Star of Cinnabar Origin, holds his breath for three counts, clicks his teeth twenty-one times, and swallows his saliva three times. This rite is called “Stepping the Dipper with a Subtle Invocation.”

The invocation says:

“The numinous light of the Cavern Heaven turns and vanishes into Dark Mystery; Qi fills the Great Void, coming and going without form. Hidden in Heaven and concealed in Earth, it pours everywhere into the realm of unborn existence. Suddenly I ascend the Celestial Net and tread the Purple Court; I look north toward the Chamber of Thunder and south toward the City of Lightning. All manner of illusions transform, no longer retaining their former shapes. In a daze, light and shadow flow; with a gesture of my hand, I can give them form. If you wish to conceal your body, remember my name. Dwelling in emptiness, free and at ease, I pass through nine transformations. Whether seated or rising, I summon the Six Jia and pay audience to the Six Ding. I bestow a hidden text upon someone, and step across the Dipper and tread the stars. Looking up, I see the August Sovereign wearing a cinnabar headcloth, his blue-green hand holding numinous light, a jade bell at his waist. Above, I pray to become a flying immortal and live as long as Heaven; may my name be written among the stars of Taiwei, and may I transform and ascend to Shangqing. Below, I pray for the art of transformation, so I can conceal my shadow and record my form. May all things go as I wish and may every place I visit be safe. If anyone harms me, let the divine weapons destroy him.”

The True Scripture of the Supreme Ultimate: Upper Text of the Golden Root says:

“You ascend the Star of Dark Mystery and step across the Dipper to conceal your form. If you wish to transform, you must know my name. Turn the celestial patterns and shake Heaven and Earth, and all things will change at once. Whenever you tread the Star of Dark Mystery, or wish to conceal your form, hold this name in your mind.”

When the Dipper-stepping rite is complete, the practitioner stands with his feet together upon the Star of Cinnabar Origin. He rests his left hand over his heart and points his right hand toward the North Pole Star, holds his breath for three counts, clicks his teeth three times, and swallows his saliva three times. This rite is called “Treading the Record with a Subtle Invocation.” The invocation says:

“Supreme One of the Nine Terraces, Cinnabar Origin and Dark Record: outwardly, you govern the pivot of the Northern Dipper; inwardly, you set in order the guiding principles of Heaven’s Way.”

The Jade Court, a jade palace in the celestial realm, is reflected among the layered heavens. Within it dwells a supreme deity known as the “Crimson Child,” who resides in the Vermilion Chamber of the Cinnabar Origin. He wears a dragon cape and tiger robe embroidered with emerald cloud patterns. In his right hand he holds the Imperial Register; in his left, the handle of the Dipper. He treads on auspicious clouds and wears a purple crown. A flowing bell hangs at his right side, and a jade pendant is tied at his left. He grants [a certain person] a hidden scripture, a secret divine book, and teaches him to tread the celestial circuits and travel about, seeking above the Way of the Flying Immortals. Riding the dark Qi (vital energy) and driving a dragon, he has his name entered in the Cinnabar Terrace and the Jade Hall of Taiji (the Supreme Ultimate). Wherever he goes and whatever he seeks, blessings and good fortune will come to greet him. If anyone does evil to [him], may that person be destroyed; divine officials, jade maidens, and jade youths are sent to accompany and protect him.

After completing the circuit-treading rite, place both feet together on the North Star. Press the right hand against the heart and point the left hand toward the Celestial Pass Star. Hold the breath three times, click the teeth three times, and swallow the saliva three times. This is called the “Subtle Invocation for Treading the Dipper.” The invocation says:

In the highest Taiwei, the noble region of the celestial realm, beneath the purple canopy of the North Pole, the Great Perfected Goddess roams beyond the Nine Heavens. She wears a flying skirt adorned with emerald splendor, a blue sash tied with golden bells, and jade light at her waist. Dense, dark clouds envelop her. She grants [a certain person] a hidden scripture, enabling him to ascend by the Seven Qis to the realm of clear emptiness, meet the Perfected Ones amid mist and rosy clouds, seek the Way of the Flying Immortals, and have his name written in the Cinnabar Chamber. Wherever he goes, his wishes will be fulfilled and no harm will befall him. If anyone does evil to me, may that person be wounded and brought to ruin.

After completing the Dipper-treading rite, place both feet together on the Celestial Pass Star. Press the right hand against the heart and point the left hand toward the Celestial Pass. Hold the breath three times, click the teeth three times, and swallow the saliva three times. This is called the “Subtle Invocation for Riding the Dragon.” The invocation says:

Above all, the Seven Poles; at the Purple Tenuity, the stars are utterly still. Beyond the precious, dark Golden Chamber stands a jade gate, encircling the Nine Palaces and harmonizing the Celestial Pass. Within the Celestial Pass dwells a revered deity known as the Purple Emperor. He grants [a certain person] a hidden scripture and leads him to ride a dragon through the Nine Heavens and fly across the earth. Auspicious clouds form a cinnabar-colored carriage. He wears a dark, splendid robe of emerald and bears a dragon tablet at his waist; his crown is patterned with tigers. He embraces and brings forth all things, teaches the way of the Flying Immortals, frees [a certain person] from death, and leaves his name in Heaven and Earth so that he may live long. When riding the dragon and treading the Dipper—walking according to the stars’ positions—he will receive blessings wherever he goes. If anyone does evil to me, may that person suffer the calamity of blades, wind, and flames.

After completing the dragon-riding rite, place both feet together on the Assistant Star. Hold the breath once, click the teeth three times, and swallow the saliva once. This is called “Traveling and Rotating through the Three Fates, Treading the Celestial Ying.” The invocation says:

The essence of the Assistant Star of Taiji (the Supreme Ultimate) dwells at the Purple Pass, nurturing life and carefully guarding the spirit and soul. The Golden Chamber opens once more, allowing me to pay homage to the Lord Assistant. The Lord Assistant grants [a certain person] a hidden scripture, enabling him to travel and circle about, and to have his name entered in …

This method is called “Wandering among the Three Yangs.” It is a ritual practice in which one walks according to the stars’ positions while visualizing and reciting prayers.

When the prescribed count—or the period set for the ritual—has ended, turn and walk to the position of the star Bi. Place both feet there together, hold your breath briefly, knock your teeth together three times, then swallow a mouthful of saliva. This sequence of movements is called “Wandering among the Three Yangs.”

Then recite the prayer softly:

“Celestial Worthy of the Purple Palace in the Muddy Pellet of the Great Void, true pivot of the mysterious expanse, you are the source of emperors and kings. The Jade Emperor is within the Dao and within the Muddy Pellet—the upper Dantian in the head. Through resonance, numinous Qi suddenly arises and reaches through the lofty heavens. Jing and Qi enter the Hall of Light, the inner palace envisioned in cultivation, strengthening embryonic breathing and augmenting the soul and spirit. Vermilion Mountain opens once more; with reverence, I draw near the numinous origin. With my left hand I gather the radiance of the sun; with my right, I take the root of the moon. Blazing fire stretches ten thousand fathoms; a golden net and jade green robes, a heavenly bone girds the waist, and a splendid crown adorns the head. Bestow upon (name) the hidden scripture, so that I may pass through the heavenly gate. May I attain the state of a flying immortal, command the myriad spirits, and draw all beings and things from the four directions together; may my blessings and De rise like mountains.”

When performing this method, always face north and hold the hidden scripture—a secret talismanic text or ritual formula—in your hand. You may also consult the written instructions to see the stars’ positions; there is no need to memorize them and perform the ritual in darkness.

In spring, one walks according to the Seven Stars; this is called “Treading the Three Guiding Measures.” In summer, one walks according to the Seven Stars; this is called “Stepping on the Six Divisions.” In autumn, one walks according to the Seven Stars; this is called “Bringing Forth the Six Harms.” In winter, one walks according to the Seven Stars; this is called “Ascending the Six Extinctions.”