《雲笈七籤》Vol. 46

Those who are sincere in heart, devote themselves to seeking the mysterious Great Dao, fast and cultivate, and admire the immortals may be fortunate enough to encounter these three scriptures. If they receive them without a master’s transmission, it is because they have a karmic connection with the mysterious Dao from former lives and were long ago listed among the immortals. A Perfected One secretly grants them the scriptures because they are worthy of them. Such people have outstanding natural gifts and can serve as models for the world. According to the regulations in the Highest One’s Forty-Four Methods of the Yellow Register, this sacred ritual method may be practiced only with permission granted through a secret covenant.

For the practice, choose a jiazi day, fast, and enter a room. At midnight, when vital energy arises, lie down or sit quietly, close your eyes slightly, click your teeth twenty-four times, and make obeisance in your heart toward the four directions. Then pray in a low voice:

“Highest One of the Nine Spirits, Primal Essence of the Three Sublimities, Great Gods of the Immortal Capital, Three Pure Ones of the Four Poles: In former days I followed the teachings of the law and was fortunate enough to encounter this supreme scripture. The Mysterious Master is far away and hidden from view, and I cannot behold his true countenance. I earnestly ask that the covenant of secluded cultivation in the mountains serve as proof, and that the gods send a Jade Youth to attend and guard me, supporting my life with jade radiance. May the Eight Vows accord and the Nine Unions be complete; may I attain wondrous wisdom and penetrate spiritual clarity. May I become a god, may I become an immortal, and may I ascend on high to the Upper Clarity.”

When the prayer is complete, click your teeth twenty-four more times and swallow your saliva ten times. Make obeisance to the scriptures in your heart, then go to bed; alternatively, rise and sit quietly while reciting the scriptures. This practice will surely bring auspicious responses. If you persist in it year after year, within three years you can become a teacher of the scriptures and their methods, taking on a position such as that of a Perfected One or a Great Master. This is the Inner Method of the Yellow Register; there is no need to seek out a master or perform a blood covenant. Those who have already received a transmission of the scriptures should practice it regularly as well.

The Second Hidden Method of Inner Reverence to the Three Origins at the Eight Assembled Hours

Daoist practitioners who have received and upheld the One Yin, Cavern Mystery, and Hidden Mystery Feathered Writings among the scriptures of the Three Perfected Ones should diligently aspire to the Highest Dao, join in communion with the gods, devote themselves to fasting, uphold the Daoist teachings, and nurture life. They should tirelessly contemplate visions and mysterious principles. Such people will surely attain the rank of High Immortal.

According to the Highest One’s Forty-Four Methods of the Yellow Register, one may practice the “Hidden Method of Inner Reverence to the Three Origins at the Eight Assembled Hours.” Choose a jia-yin, bing-yin, wu-shen, geng-shen, ding-si, ji-si, gui-hai, or yi-hai day. At dawn, enter a room and burn incense. Turn toward the left and right, close your eyes slightly, click your teeth twenty-four times, and make obeisance in your heart toward the four directions. Then pray in a low voice:

The Most High, Most Numinous Threefold Essence of the Origin (a title for a revered Daoist deity and primordial Qi) should be addressed on an auspicious day. Worship the spirit of the true scripture in an inner chamber. A young man and a jade maiden scatter fragrance in the open courtyard, enabling me to communicate with the immortals and bringing Heaven and Earth together in a flow of power. After completing the invocation, immediately close your eyes and let inner and outer merge into darkness, so that you no longer hear or see anything outside. Then click your teeth twenty-one times, swallow your saliva three times, and open your eyes. The rite is complete.

This is called the “Hidden Method of the Inner Rite for Eight Audiences and the Three Origins.” It is said that practicing it often brings spiritual insight and clear vision, allowing Jing and Qi to meet and correspond with the true spirits of the Three Origins. The jade maidens who attend the scriptures in the Mysterious Realm will then report the practitioner’s requests, helping them attain long life and become an immortal. After Heaven and Earth have joined and poured forth their power, those who have not yet received the scriptures can, by practicing this method for three years, become scripture masters who transmit the classics and receive efficacious, auspicious signs.

Third: Internally Erasing the Register of Sins

Anyone who studies or upholds the Great Cavern Perfect Scripture and the Wondrous Text of the Feminine One should live in a separate room and have no dealings with others. The scriptures should always be kept on a clean table. Burn incense and worship morning and evening, stating your wishes and praying that your register of sins be erased in this human world.

On the third, seventh, and twenty-first days of each lunar month, the jade maidens who attend the scriptures are said to report people’s transgressions to the Three Origins (the deities of the upper, middle, and lower origins in Daoism) and the Sovereign Lord Taiyi (a Daoist deity), who together examine people’s words and deeds. On these days, enter the chamber, burn incense, click your teeth twenty-one times, close your eyes, and softly recite this prayer:

“Most High Divine Method, Great Cavern Perfect Scripture: I have had the good fortune to encounter the revelation and protection of the divine, receive the Seven Charts, and take part in the transmission of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing). If I have committed any hidden transgression, may the Sovereign Lord manifest his numinous power, make the two aspects of Yin and Yang clear, and have the Supreme Lord refine my body, so that I may ascend as an immortal, become a perfected person, and live forever.”

After completing the prayer, click your teeth fourteen times, bow toward the four directions, and then open your eyes. It is said that if you do this regularly, the Three Origins will respond unseen and the Sovereign Lord will pardon your faults. Any reports of the practitioner’s transgressions will also be rejected.

Fourth: The Inner Method of the Three Origins for Concealed Repentance and Purification from Defilement

Daoist priests who practice the upper method of visualization (a cultivation method in which one calls deities or scenes to mind), or study the Way of Taiyi, should avoid contact with corpses, blood, and other defiling things. If they happen to see such things, they may use the “Inner Method of the Three Origins for Concealed Repentance and Purification from Defilement”: take one zhu of cinnabar, scatter it into water, and use the water to wash your eyes, rinse your mouth, and wash your hands and feet. Then enter the chamber and lie straight, with your hands crossed over your chest. Click your teeth fourteen times, bow toward the four directions, and softly recite this prayer:

“Upper Way of the Three Origins, Taiyi, protect my body; Lord Siming, the Five Spirits, Huangning…”

The original text ends here; the remainder of the prayer is missing.

The corpse has completely vanished, and its baleful, defiling energy has sunk away and disappeared. The seven kinds of bodily fluids flow into the five organs; radiance arises within the body, transforming me into an immortal who enjoys lasting blessings of prosperity and peace.

When the prayer is complete, if you are ill, close your eyes, steady your breathing, and gather your spirit, joining the inner and outer realms until you can no longer hear or see anything around you. After a while, when you feel a slight warmth within your body, the sign has been attained. Then click your teeth seven times and swallow your saliva three times. Once you have completed all of this, recite the passage. This is the inner cultivation method known as “The Three Primordial Ones’ Hidden Repentance and Release from Defilement.”

The Great Emperor’s Method for Opening and Untying Knots in the Scripture, Fifth

When Daoists study, practice, or transmit the highest teachings of the Dao, they should consult and read the scriptures. Whenever they open a scripture case, they should first burn incense, bow on either side of the scriptures, and click their teeth three times before them, then pray softly:

“The Jade Emperor’s highest teaching reaches up to the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing). On this auspicious day, having observed purification, I respectfully open the sacred scriptures with care. May every kind of calamity retreat and be subdued, and may all I undertake come to completion. May the Jade Youth attendants guard me, and may Jade Radiance spread its fragrance. I report upward to the Three Primordial Ones; grant me long life.”

When the prayer is complete, open the scriptures; only then may you recite them. This is called “the Great Emperor’s Method for Opening the Scriptures.” It is said to summon Jade Maidens and Jade Youths to attend and guard the practitioner, invite the spirits to descend through the burning of incense, and send petitions upward to the Nine Heavens.

Method for Praying to the Great Unity Emperor Lord, Sixth

A Daoist who receives instruction in the Cavern scriptures and practices the teachings of Great Unity must not reveal the personal name of the Great Unity Emperor Lord to those whose aims differ from their own. Revealing the name violates the “Hidden Punishment of the Great Mystery,” the otherworldly retribution described in Daoism. It is said that if the name is revealed three times, the Five Spirits will leave their dwelling, making it impossible to attain immortality. If it is revealed more than three times, the person will become a low-ranking ghost after death, with no further hope of becoming an immortal.

After receiving a scripture, a Daoist should visualize the Great Unity Emperor Lord and invoke his name every morning and evening. First click the teeth three times, then pray softly:

“Lingfan treads the path of prosperity; Elder of the Seven Spirits, Great Unity Wuyou, may the Five Spirits bring yellow serenity. May I rise to the Nine Heavens and stand alongside the Emperor. May I receive the gift of ascending as a flying immortal; may the seven generations of my ancestors and the unborn spirits in the womb be freed from transgressions, pardoned for their offenses, and raised to Jade Purity.”

When the prayer is complete, click the teeth seven times and swallow saliva three times. This is a method of visualizing the spirits, dissolving transgressions, and asking the Emperor Lord to grant the attainment of immortality. It is said that if one practices in this way for seven years, the spirits will respond and gather; the Emperor Lord will be pleased, the Dark Mother will inscribe the practitioner’s life, the Five Spirits will remain present, and the offenses of the seven generations of ancestors will be dissolved. In the end, the practitioner will be reborn in the Southern Immortal Realm, live forever, and ascend to Heaven in broad daylight.

Method of Cautions and Prohibitions, Seventh

Anyone who practices the teachings of Great Unity, carries out the highest methods of the Dao, or cultivates techniques for visualizing the spirits must be careful to avoid seeing corpses or bloodstained things. If you see a corpse, you must cease practicing for one year.

Opening Fragment

The surviving fragment of the preceding passage holds that if a practitioner commits a fault during cultivation, one year of accumulated merit is deducted. This is the standard penalty under the "Regulations of Emperor One" (Di Yi zhi ke). The fault also has consequences for the future. If the practitioner encounters corpses three times within a single year, the penalties are three years' loss of merit and three years' suspension of the right to adjudicate. If the practitioner encounters twenty-four corpses, they may no longer cultivate the Supreme One (Taiyi) or seek immortality.

Chapter Eight: The Emperor's Incantation for Capturing Spirits

A Daoist who lodges alone in the mountain forests is often troubled by mountain spirits and malevolent ghosts. The method is as follows: knock the teeth fourteen times, hold the breath, and recite the incantation:

"Yesterday I received an audience with the Lord Emperor, who commanded me to take charge of the true primordial energy, to govern the Five Marchmounts, and to destroy Fengshan. Mountain spirits and the myriad numinous beings, obey! Come before the Emperor and await instruction. Guided by the Seven Spirits and overseen by the Three Primes of the True, let all comply. If any lesser demon appears, slay it at once. Mountain spirits and marsh deities, come quickly to attend. The master's command ascends to the Three Pure Ones, and everything shall proceed according to the methods of the Great Cavern True Scripture (Dadong Zhenjing), without delay."

When the recitation is complete, knock the teeth fourteen more times. This is the "Emperor's Incantation for Capturing Spirits," used to subdue mountain spirits and the hundred ghosts. (Note: Fengshan is the legendary subterranean ghost realm. The Three Pure Ones (Sanqing) are the supreme deities of Daoism. The Great Cavern True Scripture is an important scripture of the Highest Clarity (Shangqing) school.) When the gods of the mountains, the earth deities, the shrine spirits, and the spirits of upright qi hear this incantation, they will come to hold whips in protection, and divine soldiers will stand guard on either side. Even when one sleeps among ten thousand people, it is as though divine soldiers are keeping watch.

Chapter Nine: The Great Incantation for Averting Evil

According to the method of the "Great Incantation for Averting Evil" in the Higher Inner Chapters of the Great Cavern True Scripture: whenever one passes along a dangerous mountain path or between ghost shrines, or whenever one feels fear or apprehension in the heart, curl the tongue back to rest against the upper palate and swallow the saliva three times. Then, with the second and third fingers of the left hand, pinch the base of the philtrum below the nose, at the inner edge of the nasal septum, thirty-six times. Afterward, press firmly and do not lift the fingers to count.

This point is called the "Mountain Source," and it is also known as the "Ghost Well," the "Spirit Pool," the "Root of Evil," and the "Soul Terrace." After pinching, knock the teeth seven times, cover the nose with the palm, face forward, close the eyes, and recite the incantation:

"The Vermilion Bird soars through the sky, and divine majesty spreads within. The Mountain Source holds the four quarters, and the Ghost Well sends the phantoms fleeing. The Spirit Pool exhales its breath, and the root of evil lies hidden and subdued. The Soul Terrace shines on all four sides, its jade chambers gleaming. The True Jade stands lofty, seated in the Hall of Light. The hand wields the purple mist, the head bears the dawn radiance, and I chant the thirty-nine chapters of the Dong Scripture (Dong Jing). Within it are the dragons and tigers that repel evil, that cut through the peaks and sever the ridges, and that drive away fierce beasts."

This incantation summons divine majesty and drives away evil influences, protecting the practitioner's safety on the path of cultivation.

Charging bulls with knives in their mouths, swallowing spears and splitting mountains, jue (fierce beasts of the mountains), divine sparrows, six-headed venomous dragons breathing fire, the king who devours ghosts, the lightning boar and Thunder Father, stars torn from their courses and sent flying, owls snapping and mottled creatures blazing, creatures ranging crosswise against the wind, and the celestial bird arrayed in a net formation—all are at my side. They breathe forth flames ten thousand fathoms high to drive away ill omens. The assembled spirits clear my path and seal off the mountain villages; a thousand gods and a hundred numinous beings bow their heads and prostrate themselves together. The Marsh Commandant holds up an incense burner and burns incense for me. Wherever I am and wherever I pass, the myriad gods come to welcome me.

When the ritual is complete, click the teeth together three times, then open the eyes and depart slowly. Pressing the left hand against the “Mountain Source” closes the Ghost Well’s gate; touching the “Spirit Pool” makes the roots of evil disperse; placing the hand over the “Soul Terrace” ensures that the true spirit guards the pass. The numinous root then responds and stirs, and celestial beasts come to protect me. A thousand kinds of spirits and monsters are subdued in awe, and none dares violate my true nature. This is the natural order, as though it could happen in an instant.

The “Mountain Source” beneath the nose is where the numinous fluids of the whole body gather, and it is also the main passage between the true and the evil. Turning away from the true Dao gives rise to evil Qi; returning to the true Dao can stop every evil force. The key lies in how I use and regulate it; from this, good fortune and misfortune become apparent.

The Three Heavens’ Orthodox Method for Invoking the Demon Spirits, Chapter Ten

When Daoist practitioners withdraw into the mountains to devote themselves to contemplation and commune with the spirits, or recite the Cavern scriptures (Daoist scriptures) aloud, they are often tested by the Great Demon of the Northern Emperor, bringing inauspicious signs to their cultivation. Each night, they should first click the teeth together thirty-six times, then recite:

“Great Demon King of the Northern Emperor, you received your command before the Lord Emperor. Ghosts of the Springs and the Song of Feng Mountain of the Four Brightnesses, a thousand kinds of demons and monsters intermingle and transform, sharing nine heads on one body. The divine tiger sends forth poisonous Qi and destroys thunderbolts. The Divine Lord speaks a curse, killing without distinction between kin and stranger. The Grand Tenuity has already issued its command: gather in and register the gods of mountains and rivers. Bells shake and are cast about; their gleaming flames stream across the nine heavens. Wind and fire set out to war, and divine troops with sharp weapons form ten ranks. Fierce ordeals are subdued and destroyed; ten thousand kinds of spirits and monsters are put to death. Should evil forces dare to rise, they will be punished by having the Three Passes sealed shut. Carry out the Cavern method as commanded, and let nothing fail to follow my words.”

After finishing the incantation, click the teeth together thirty-six more times. This is called “The Method of the Three Heavens’ Orthodox Teaching for Invoking the Demon Spirits.” Practice it regularly according to the method, and divine troops will serve as guards; the gods of mountains and rivers will gather in the spirits and monsters; a thousand kinds of demons and calamities will be sealed away, and no ordeal will be able to disturb you.

The Method for Using the Three Platforms to Repel Evil, Chapter Eleven

The secret name of the Upper Platform is “Empty Essence”; that of the Middle Platform is “Six Purities” (also written “Six Stillnesses”); and that of the Lower Platform is “Crooked Life.” Knowing the secret names of these three platforms can eliminate all manner of evil and bring every good thing to completion.

Sit quietly in a peaceful room and hold the body upright. Visualize the three platforms covering the crown of your head. Next, visualize the Qi in the two kidneys flowing from…

Imagine luminous Qi rising from the chest and connecting with the Three Terraces stars (celestial officials in the heavens, according to Daoist belief). After completing this visualization for a long time, click the teeth fourteen times, then gently inhale through the nose. Keep the mouth closed and hold the breath until full, then swallow it. After swallowing, silently recite the incantation:

“May every part flourish and thrive; I pray for long life. Great Mystery, Three Terraces, always protect my body. Wherever I go, coming or going, all the gods accompany and guard me. After five years of practice, immortal bones will naturally form; after seven years, all medicines I take will release their essence; after ten years, I will ascend to the heavenly court. Hasten, in accordance with the statutes and commands.”

The dates for practicing the “Stepping on the Terraces Method” are:

The third day of the first month, the second day of the second month, the fifth day of the fifth month, the ninth day of the ninth month, and the twenty-sixth day of the tenth month. (For the specific method, see this Jing.)

Prayer for Burning Incense to Di Yi (12)

Those who practice the methods of the Caverns, as well as the Taiji and Di Yi methods, should regularly enter a room at dusk, burn incense, and bow sincerely before the scriptures. Then they should click their teeth fourteen times and softly recite the incantation:

“Most Honored Taiyi, Mysterious Jing of Di Yi. Auspicious clouds of five colors scatter their radiance and reach the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing). Jade boys and jade maidens burn incense in service to the spirits. May Heaven open the gate through which I may present my petition, unite me with the spirits, and enable me to become an immortal, living long in ease, good fortune, and peace.”

After reciting the incantation, click the teeth fourteen more times. This method is called “Burning Incense to Di Yi.” It is a practice for presenting a petition to Heaven and praying to unite oneself with the spirits. If practiced regularly, the Jade attendants and spirits will assist the practitioner, causing incense clouds to rise and reach the Nine Heavens. After three years of practice, jade boys and jade maidens will appear before the practitioner.

Prayer for the Soul Embryo to Receive Fragrance (13)

When Daoists enter a room for purification, before eating they should hold chopsticks in the left hand and tap the eating vessel three times, then softly recite the incantation:

“The Dao above, mysterious and profound, makes the four directions pure and still. Taiyi, the Imperial Lord, and the hundred spirits of Yellow Tranquility, please receive this food. The Three Palaces nourish the spirit of the spleen; above, it accords with Great Harmony and partakes of the five fragrances. The soul embryo is nourished, the seven fluids flow and settle, the hundred gates open and harmonize, the five organs shine with radiance, the two stars unite their light, and I ascend to Highest Clarity.”

After eating, click the teeth three times. This method is called “The Soul Embryo Receiving Fragrance”: a practice of inviting the hundred spirits to partake of an offering of food. Regular practice can bring clarity of mind, harmonize the breath, calm the soul and spirit, dispel all manner of evil and trials, and preserve lasting health and good fortune.

Prayer for Combing the Hair (14)

When Daoists comb or wash their hair, or prepare to loosen their hair from its knot, they should first click their teeth seven times, then softly recite the incantation:

The Inner Method of the Great Emperor for Scattering Blossoms and Grooming the Hair: After reciting the spell, tie up the hair, then click the teeth together once. This completes the entire ritual. The scripture says that this method can keep a person free from illness throughout the year, sharpen the hearing and eyesight, and prevent headaches. When grooming the hair, face the direction associated with your birth year. As you begin to comb, silently recite:

“Great Emperor, scatter the spirits; Five Elders, restore the spirit. Dark blossoms in the Mudball, preserve the essence and let it endure. On the left, bind the hidden moon; on the right, draw in the sun’s root. Purify and refine the Six Directions; may the hundred spirits receive grace.”

After reciting the spell, the scripture says, this practice can prevent headaches. The Scripture of Green Blossoms of the Supreme Ultimate (Taiji Lühua Jing) also says to face the direction where the earth god resides when grooming the hair. As you begin to comb, softly recite:

“Dark blossoms in the Mudball, preserve the essence and let it endure. On the left is the hidden moon; on the right, the sun’s root. Purify and refine the Six Directions; may the hundred spirits receive grace.”

When you finish reciting, swallow saliva three times. The scripture says that following these instructions can prevent hair from falling out and help it gradually grow. While combing, change combs often and comb as much as you can, but do not comb so hard that it hurts. You may also ask an attendant to comb your hair. According to the scripture, this helps the blood and channels flow freely and strengthens the hair roots.

The Great Emperor’s Hidden Blessing, Chapter Fifteen

When Daoist practitioners enter a quiet chamber to burn incense, pray, and practice cultivation, they should first click their teeth together three times, then softly recite:

“Jade blossoms scatter their radiance; the nine Qi hold the mist. Clouds of incense form a dense net, rising straight to the nine heavens. The Jade Maidens who attend the incense carry my words before the Emperor. Grant me long life, and let me become an immortal in this world. May all that I seek and wish for come to pass as I have spoken.”

After reciting, pay homage in your heart, concentrating and reciting with sincerity. You may also state your wishes as you see fit. The scripture calls this “the Great Emperor’s Hidden Blessing.” Through burning incense, it seeks to entreat the spirits to descend from the nine heavens and to grant the wish to meet the immortals.

Spell for Dispelling Bad Dreams, Chapter Sixteen

The scripture holds that during dreams, the hun and po souls interact with the Qi throughout the body, which may disturb the spirit and even invite harmful influences. If you have a bad dream, face north and report what you dreamed to the Lord of the Great Dao. The scripture says that doing this four or five times will make the bad dream disappear.

The oral teaching passed down from Lord Green Youth says that if you have a bad dream at night and wake feeling unsettled, you should immediately turn your pillow over and recite:

“Numinous Jade Maidens, attend the perfected and guard my soul. Golden youths of the Six Palaces, come guard the gate of life. Transform evil and return it to goodness; report this to the Three Primes. Let me live long, ride the radiance, and travel on clouds.”

When you finish reciting, swallow saliva seven times and click your teeth together seven times, then go back to sleep. The scripture says that doing this four or five times will make the bad dream disappear completely.

This spell can also transform nightmares into auspicious signs.

Inner Spell for Wielding the Spirits, Seventeenth

When a Daoist is spending the night alone in the mountains, in a temple, or in a quiet room, and finds themselves somewhere haunted by demonic spirits and evil ghosts, they should first click their teeth thirty-six times, hold their breath, and softly recite:

“Great Emperor Yangyuan, the fourfold net at the hidden gates: among a thousand demons and ten thousand poisons, who dares stand in my way? Let the great beasts open their mouths wide, and cut open their bellies, gouge out their livers. Divine Lords and their attendants guard the encampments; the yellow-robed marshal leads the troops to slay demonic souls. Destroy a thousand demons, crush evil forces, cut off their descendants and wipe out their kind, and bring them to ruin. By order of the Jade Emperor, cleanse the Three Realms.”

After reciting, click the teeth thirty-six more times. This is the “Inner Spell for Wielding the Spirits of the Great Emperor,” a method for sealing away and destroying all demons. Reciting it often is said to bring the protection of divine troops, making all ghosts obey and a thousand demons submit.

Spell of the Great Emperor for Settling the Spirit in Sleep, Destroying Ghosts, and Removing Misfortune, Eighteenth

When going to bed and taking off their clothes, a Daoist should first click their teeth three times, then stand and recite:

“By the command of the Great Emperor, ascend to the Nine Palaces. May the hundred deities dwell securely in their stations, ranked around the Divine Lord. Let the hun and po souls be harmonized, the five organs nourished, sweet dew and the seven fluids flow into the body, and life fill even the empty spaces. Let the fire bells shine upon one another, destroying ghosts and removing misfortune. May I live on without end and, in time, become an immortal.”

After reciting, click the teeth three more times, then undress and go to sleep. This is the “Method of the Great Emperor for Settling the Spirit in Sleep, Destroying Ghosts, and Removing Misfortune.” It is said to clear the spirit, prevent illness, preserve the hun and po souls, and bring auspicious responses.

Another Spell for Destroying Ghosts and Dispelling Evil, Nineteenth

On the day corresponding to one’s birth’s heavenly stem and earthly branch, or when in a frightening place, close the doors, focus the mind in quiet contemplation, click the teeth three times, regulate the breath, sit upright facing north, visualize inwardly, and softly recite:

“Loluona Chao, Fangnai Elian, Banmu Bodui, Danhan Great Serpent, Hecha White Rat, Danli Great Demon, Zhenfu Guangfu, Xuling Zhixiao, command all good and ill fortune; open the hidden and illuminate the obscure; dance and regard the myriad beings; gather and encompass the many strands. In a hundred directions and a thousand paths, all becomes clear and bright. Heaven and Earth share one measure—who can claim to bring them harm?”

This spell invokes deities through a series of mysterious names and images, placing good and ill fortune under their command. It conveys the idea that Heaven and Earth are open and connected, and that evil forces cannot cause harm.

The Seventh-Chamber Blessing for Washing Away Impurity and Dispelling Misfortune, Twentieth

When bathing or washing their hands, a Daoist should first face the water and click their teeth three times, then softly recite:

“The four quarters open bright; Heaven and Earth endure. With dark water, wash away impurity and drive off ill omens…”

The Emperor guards the gate; the Seven Spirits settle the chambers; the Cloud Ford refines and pours; the myriad Qi blend in harmony; inner and outer are blessed and steadfast; preserve this yellow robe. When you have finished reciting the incantation, knock your teeth together three times, then wash your hands and face. This is called the “Seven Chambers Incantation for Washing Away Defilement and Dispelling Misfortune.” Practicing it regularly can clear and brighten the spirit, purify Qi and blood, and dispel all kinds of malign influences.

Twenty-One: Incantation to Eliminate the Hidden Six Heavens

When Daoist priests walk at night or come to a place that inspires fear and unsettles the mind, they should knock their teeth together fourteen times, then recite the incantation:

“I am the True King of Xiao You, Lord of the Three Heavens. In the past, I received from the Highest One (a revered Daoist deity) divine prescriptions and scriptures for destroying evil spirits. Wandering corpses that roam at night, the Seven Evil Demon Souls, the Nine Ghosts, and the throngs of a thousand demons, as well as the troops of He Bo Tu and the giant beast Luo Qian, will all be struck down and destroyed. If the myriad demons dare to block my way, they will be utterly annihilated. The seven torches of the Dragon Beacon drive out evil spirits without the slightest gap. With the Jade Emperor’s divine incantation, I wield my sword east and west, destroying all that is wicked and malign. The lives of the myriad ghosts are now in my hands. Let the orthodox methods of the Three Heavens be carried out as I command.”

After reciting the incantation, knock your teeth together fourteen times. This is called the “Orthodox Method of the Three Heavens Incantation to Eliminate the Hidden Six Heavens.” If a ghost is struck by this incantation, it will go blind and become lame, and will eventually perish of its own accord. Whenever you travel to a place that frightens you, you may practice this method; it is not limited to night travel. Reciting the incantation often can subdue the myriad demons and make the thousand spirits vanish.

Twenty-Two: Great Emperor’s Incantation to Subdue the Soul and Destroy the Corpse Spirits

Daoist priests generally choose the last day or first day of the lunar month, or the days of Jia Yin, Geng Yin, and Geng Shen, to perform spells of cursing and to destroy the Three Corpse Spirits—the deities said to dwell within the human body, record a person’s misdeeds, and report them to the authorities above. According to legend, at these times the Seven Po, wandering corpses, and various blood-dwelling corpse ghosts ascend to Heaven to report a person’s sins, then return to harm them. Some also roam elsewhere, summon outside ghosts, and join them in causing trouble. As a result, nightmares disturb sleep, while illness and calamity afflict the person’s spirit chamber—that is, the mind and body. Nightmares and illness are caused by the mischief of the Seven Po and wandering corpses.

On these days, one should bathe, change clothes, burn incense, enter a room, and focus the mind with sincerity, practicing the rite without doing anything else. At midnight, when Yang energy first begins to arise, or at dusk, lie flat with your head facing east and both hands resting over your heart. First knock your teeth together twenty-one times, then recite the incantation in a low voice:

“Seven spirits and eight deities, eight vows and four declarations, report above to the numinous mandate. The Two True Ones of the Central Emperor record the souls and refine the Po. Block and destroy evil essences, blood ghosts, wandering corpses, and stagnant, impure Qi; let them dissipate forever, to my benefit…”

“Life’s passage” closes my “gate of death.” If the true bearer of the Mandate—one who truly practices the Daoist way—heeds the summons, let him come before the Emperor Lord, so that I may live long, calamities recede, and my lifespan endure without decline. This is the method of the Great Emperor. I respectfully report to the Three Origins (upper, middle, and lower), then click my teeth twenty-one times and swallow the saliva. Repeat these actions ten times to complete the rite. This is called the “Great Emperor’s Spell for Subduing Souls and Striking Down Corpse Spirits,” a spell used to control the seven evils of the blood corpse.

All malevolent spirits subdued by this spell will be destroyed. The person’s Hun-soul will become clear, and the Po-soul will become compliant, as they receive transformation and guidance in the Three Palaces—the three parts of the body regarded in Daoism as dwelling places of spirits. This method can drive away evil and remove illness, keeping the person’s spirit clear and vigorous and preventing an early death. Reciting it regularly ensures that, throughout life, one will not suffer oppression by nightmares or disturbances of confusion and dullness.

When visualizing the Supreme Dao and reciting the spell to eliminate the Three Corpses—spirits said in Daoism to dwell within the body, harm a person’s vital spirit, and record their transgressions—gather the roots of bai zhi and qing mu xiang. Boil them in flowing water from the east, then use the liquid to bathe and dispel the foul energy brought by the blood corpse. The herbs may also be mixed and burned as incense to communicate with the spirits. If qing mu xiang is unavailable, bai zhi alone will suffice.

The Gengshen and Jiayin days are said to be when blood ghosts and wandering corpses hold their watch. Daoist belief holds that on these days the energies of Heaven and Earth intermingle, the seven Po-souls are prone to disorder, and foul energy mixes with true Qi. Evil influences also circulate more readily and disturb the vital spirit. Therefore, on these days, observe a pure fast and remain alone; do not sit together with others. As a precaution, avoid meeting or sharing a bed with one’s spouse. Do not contend over property, indulge in sexual pleasure, or act against what is right.

Whenever you burn incense, attune your breath, or practice cultivation, you may also recite a spell to dispel calamity, or recite scripture to calm the mind and spirit. When visualizing the Emperor Yi of the Inner Chamber, an inner deity and its dwelling place in Daoist belief, focus on pure vital essence and thoughts.

The Great Emperor’s Spell for Warding Off Dream Spirits, No. 23

If a Daoist priest suddenly has an inauspicious dream—for example, dreaming of fighting with someone, or of being seized and imprisoned—this too is believed to be caused by wandering corpses among the seven Po-souls. They may draw outside ghosts into one’s dwelling, or scatter the Three Hun-souls and unsettle the Five Spirits. They may also bind the souls so they cannot return to the body, bringing ominous dreams that foretell approaching calamity.

Upon waking, lie straight on the bed, facing upward, and fold both hands over the chest. Click your teeth twenty-one times. Then recite softly:

“Emperor of the Nine Heavens, Four Gates and Eight Spirits, Seven Chambers and Two Mysteries, Three Pure Essences and Primordial Jing, Great One and Tao Kang: ascend and report at once to the Three Pure Ones, swiftly inform the Emperor Lord, secure and sustain the vital breath of life, and summon Yellow Tranquility. Swiftly gather the seven Po-souls and examine and judge them in the Court of the Spirits. If there is anything inauspicious, the ghostly troops of the seven corpses will then emerge from both…”

Pure Qi flows through the body, illuminating and refining its form. The Great Spirit of Taiwei, a high-ranking deity, cuts down evil essences. The Three Hun souls become calm, harmonious, and gentle; the blood corpse sinks away and vanishes; the spirit returns to its pure and tranquil abode. In every direction, all is auspicious. May I become an immortal and preserve my life for a long time.

After reciting the spell, click the teeth together fourteen times, then swallow the saliva ten times. This is called “The Divine Spell of the Great Emperor for Driving Away Dreams and Removing Misfortune.” Those who practice this method will bring the Three Hun souls into harmony and discipline the Seven Po souls. The qi of the spirits will become upright, and the foul qi of the corpse will disperse. The ghosts against whom the spell is directed are immediately judged in the underworld. After reciting the spell three times, if no auspicious sign of efficacy appears, you will no longer dream of strange things.

The Second-Fourth Blessing for Secluded Devotion at the Three Primordials and Eight Festivals

Whenever Daoist priests bow and pray to the gods, focus their minds on contemplating and practicing the higher methods, or perform various secret spells, they should burn incense, bow inwardly in their hearts, and recite the spells silently, so that others cannot hear. When using spells to cut down the Six Heavens—the divine powers associated with evil ghosts—and destroy malevolent ghosts, they may recite somewhat audibly, but must not speak loudly, lest others understand. In ordinary recitation, they may speak aloud as they please.

The Eight Festivals are days when the celestial immortals of the Three Primordials gather for feasts and ceremonies. Practitioners who make vows and pay their respects on these days should observe ritual purification. The monthly rites on the first and fifteenth days are not among the higher methods.

On each of the Eight Festivals, when making vows and presenting prayers, first click the teeth together seven times, then bow inwardly toward the four directions and pray softly:

“Jade Emperor of Shangqing, Three Su Yuanjun, High and Venerable Lord of the Great Dao, Great Spirit of the Immortal Capital: today is an auspicious day, and I present eight wishes. My first wish is to rise into the clouds, live forever, attain the Dao, and become an immortal. My second wish is that Heaven and Earth unite with me, and that the winds and clouds be favorable. My third wish is that my five viscera remain well and preserved for a long time. My fourth wish is that my Seven Ancestors, seven generations of forebears, be released from sin and freed from guilt. My fifth wish is that the Lord Emperor cut away the source of my conception and formation, the cause that hinders my cultivation. My sixth wish is that wisdom be perfected in every generation. My seventh wish is that ghosts and demons be destroyed, and the evil forces of the Six Heavens cut down. My eighth wish is that the spirits descend, and see and hear clearly. East and west, above and below: may all these wishes be fulfilled together, with none left unrealized. May I become a spirit and an immortal.”

After the prayer, bow again as at the beginning. You may also state requests according to your own wishes, especially asking that the sins of your Seven Ancestors and the transgressions you yourself committed in the past be absolved; include these petitions in the rite.

This is called “The Blessing for Secluded Devotion at the Three Primordials and Eight Festivals.” It is an important method for seeking the protection of the immortals. After three years of practice, the sins of your Seven Ancestors and parents, as well as your own, can be absolved.

The Jade Radiance Spirit descends to guard and protect, and makes contact with the divine. State the eight wishes clearly, and you will surely receive the essential instructions for becoming an immortal.

The Essential Covenant of Immortality: Miscellaneous Methods, Part Twenty-Five

If you feel afraid while traveling, you can tap your teeth together thirty-six times on the left side. First hold your breath, then exhale to the left while making a “chi, chi” sound five times. It is said that doing this regularly can help you avoid harmful spirits, baleful beings, and inauspicious Qi.

At night, before going to sleep, place your hand over your heart, tap your teeth together three times, close your eyes, and softly recite this incantation:

“Great Spirit of the Nine Palaces, Great One who guards the chamber;

may the hundred spirits take their places, and may the hun and po souls be at peace together.

May life endure without end; may evil and calamity be blocked and destroyed.”

When you have finished, go to sleep. This is called the “Incantation of the Nine Palaces for Concealing the Soul in Sleep.” It is a bedtime incantation that calls on the spirits of the Nine Palaces to guard the body and mind and settle the hun and po souls. It is said that practicing it often brings peace to the souls and lasting good fortune.

When transmitting an advanced method, the scripture master who teaches it should first seek a response from the divine. Only then may the teaching be passed on. The master enters a quiet chamber, burns incense, silently prays to the divine, and pays homage to the scripture inwardly, then softly recites this incantation:

“Primordial Lord of the Highest, Great Spirit of the Immortal Capital: on this auspicious day, I state my eight wishes. I intend to transmit a certain advanced method to a certain person, and respectfully report this to the numinous source. Whether this may be done must be determined by awaiting a response; only then shall I proclaim and transmit the teaching.”

After reciting this prayer, the master goes to sleep. It is said that a response will surely come. The master can use it to judge whether the transmission is appropriate; the teaching should be passed on only after receiving confirmation that it may be done.

When transmitting a scripture, the master first pays homage inwardly to the four directions to make contact with the divine, and honors the founding master as the presiding authority. Then, holding the scripture, the master rises, looks up to Heaven, and makes a declaration, swearing before the spirits and establishing the covenant for transmission within the Mystery Gate. The declaration should name the recipient and state the grade and contents of the scripture and teachings he is to receive, in accordance with the liturgical register and its prescribed vows. After the declaration, the disciple bows twice, kneels to receive the scripture, and bows twice again once it has been received.

This is an inner rite in which an adept forms a covenant with the divine. It is not necessary to follow the practice of cutting oneself and swearing with blood to prevent the teachings from being revealed.

Whenever a scripture master transmits a teaching, the method described above should be followed: observe purification and abstinence, reside alone in a quiet place, and have no dealings with the outside world. First report the matter to the divine and seek a secret response, then proceed with the transmission. If the signs received are confused or inauspicious, they are regarded as a warning revealed by the heavenly spirits that the teaching should not be passed on. If the disciple disregards the will of the divine and the master transmits the method in defiance of the signs, the Yellow Register regulations say that the transmitter will suffer unseen punishment: the souls of seven generations of ancestors will be confined in Hell for a long time, and the transmitter will lose his life, making immortality out of the question.

When practicing the Taiyi method, if you have a request to make, you must not actually knock your head on the ground. Such prostration would startle the Nine Heavens and disturb the multitude of perfected beings and gods. It would cause the divine officials to turn back and press down upon the Mudball Palace, leaving the Celestial Emperor hanging upside down. The Celestial Emperor issues commands in the upper realm, while Taiyi weeps in the middle Dantian. If you do this too often, visualization will bring no benefit: the Three Perfected Ones will leave their palaces, the Seven Spirits will scatter in confusion, and the Mysterious Abode—the dwelling place of the spirits within the body—will attract baleful Qi. This is what the Most High (Taishang) most forbids.

For this reason, the perfected beings of ancient times only imagined themselves prostrating in their hearts. They circulated Jing and Qi, and, after their sincere intent had reached the spirits, went on to act. They did not seek spiritual efficacy by physically bowing and knocking their heads on the ground.

When practicing the Taiyi method, neither perfected beings nor Daoist priests may perform bows or prostrations; these, too, are forbidden by the Lord Emperor and the Five Spirits. To focus the mind in visualization, or to offer bows and prayers, one need only bow inwardly, without bending the body. Those who practice and receive the highest teachings should not act like those who study only external rites.

When a Daoist priest ascends the altar to observe purification and enters a quiet chamber to practice, sudden signs of spiritual efficacy or auspicious dreams are indications that the cultivation of the Dao is nearing completion. One should practice diligently, remain steadfast in one’s resolve, and look with reverence toward the upper realm, seeking communion with it. If this practice continues without interruption, the true spirits and Jade Maidens will come to your sleeping quarters.

On waking, sit upright and face upward. Knock the teeth together twenty-one times, close the eyes, and softly recite:

“Above, the Red Child, Cinnabar Emperor, turns the pearl; the Supreme Taiyi, Lord Emperor, gathers the Celestial Earl into nothing. The Seven Spirits respond from above; the Five Spirits return to roam. The spirit boys and Jade Maidens open wide the paired talismans. The Seven Stars ascend together, rising to the Mound of Dawn.”

After reciting, knock the teeth together another twenty-one times, swallow the saliva three times, and then open the eyes. Once these steps are complete, the practice is called “The Incantation of Taiyi’s Lingering Spirit, Communion with the Immortals and Worthies.” Practice in this way for three years, and the gods of the Nine Heavens and the Jade Maiden of Great Mystery will descend to protect the practitioner’s body.

When a Daoist priest enters a quiet chamber to observe purification and practice, if inauspicious beings, strange apparitions, visions of blood, ghosts, monsters, or baleful Qi appear repeatedly, and are understood as tests of the practitioner, one should recite the Northern Emperor’s Incantation for Driving Out Ghosts and Cutting Down Evil. First knock the teeth together thirty-six times, then recite:

“The Two Forms wheel and overturn; the banner of the Mysterious One is raised. The Seven Spirits guard life and ascend to the Three Pure Ones. The paired emperors drive them away; the Radiant Cypresses command their troops. Three hundred thousand soldiers attend the divine camp. A hundred-zhang giant beast breathes forth might and seizes the essence. Wielding swords, they pursue evil, beheading demons and spirits. By the spell of the Divine Earl, a thousand demons are stripped of form.”

After reciting, knock the teeth together another thirty-six times.

The incantation of the Northern Emperor can drive away and destroy ghosts and evil spirits, bringing all divine beings back to the proper order. When upright Qi (vital energy) hears this incantation, it will come to protect you. Any inauspicious Qi that encounters this upright Qi will dissipate and vanish.

Yunji Qiqian, juan 46