《雲笈七籤》Vol. 8

The primordial Qi of the Great One arises above the Nine Heavens and is called “Bifei” (“Repelling the Unfitting”). Its vapor descends into the human body and transforms into “the Qi of the Luminous Ridge.” It circulates through the five viscera and resides beneath the heart spirit. This supremely refined Qi is where primordial Qi takes up residence. Only by understanding the origin of Bifei primordial Qi can one govern the foundation of Great Nonbeing. By governing that foundation, one can fully experience the realm of the Void and Mystery, the Great Dao, and become a virtuous person of the Daoist tradition.

“Yiyuan Feathered Youth” is the spirit in the human nose; “the myriad winds disturbing the Mystery” refers to the breath in the nose; and “the Four Clear Ones settling in stillness” refers to the area below the nose and above the mouth. One should keep the breath gentle and steady, and frequently press a hand against the space between the nostrils while reciting this passage. Pressing there allows the High and Exalted spirit to sit upright in its proper place and gathers the Qi of the Heavenly Peak. When the breath arrives, congestion in the nose will clear, and the nose spirit will appear lightly, taking its seat in turn within the “Green Chamber.” The Green Chamber is where the upper lip meets the philtrum.

Thus, the August One of the Upper Radiance, a revered deity in Daoism, governs the vapor of primordial Qi, joining the many forms of Qi together. When they remain in lasting accord with the workings of the Void, they naturally return to their original state. “Yiyou” is a gate in the northwest above the Nine Heavens. Those who can ascend to the Gate of Yiyou may rise to the Imperial Hall and take part in the court assembly. After that, the five paths are all transformed; the depths stand in solemn array, filled with sounds and resonances. The Qi of Great Harmony gives rise to ten thousand sounds, appearing subtly. The hundred kinds of blended Qi circulate back and forth nine times, and in the end return to and accord with the One.

“The treasure of the Great One’s hidden life” is the human heart spirit: the place where the Qi of the Luminous Ridge resides and Bifei primordial Qi dwells. Thus, one’s ancestors across seven generations may be brought back to life, and those who cultivate the Dao may attain the Dao and be saved. The intent and principles of the High and Exalted are all contained here.

After reciting the High and Exalted Cavern Scripture, pronounce this invocation in the mouth: “Sanlan Luobodaidai.” This is an invocation of the Nine Heavens and an inner name used by the High and Exalted deities. In earthly language, “Sanlan Luobodaidai” means “May Heaven’s mandate endure, and may people always be at peace.” “Yiyou,” in earthly terms, means “Long Terrace.”

Chapter Two

The Lord of the Jade Void, Sovereign of the Supreme August, said: “‘Returning to the Mysterious’ is the name for a kind of sound in the Nine Heavens; it is also called the ‘Mud Pill’ (Niwan). Heavenly Dawn and Golden Firmament refer to the way of the female and male: Heavenly Dawn is female, and Golden Firmament is male. The spirit of the male is called ‘Dawn,’ and the spirit of the female is called ‘Firmament.’ The ‘Yellow Register of Jade Province’ is the Heavenly Emperor’s golden tablets, made of metal. ‘Virtue Blade’ is the name of a pavilion in the Nine Heavens.”

Chapter Three

The August Jade Emperor said: “The Jade Emperor has a mysterious banner called the ‘Banner of Reversed Splendor.’ It is the Jade Emperor’s standard and a summons to the immortals, used to issue commands, establish ranks in the Nine Heavens, and call forth the divine kings of the Four Seas and Five Sacred Peaks.

The perfected beings of the Nine Heavens call the sun ‘Luo of Washed Radiance’; those of the Three Heavens call it ‘Lush Orb of Light.’ In the Heaven of Jade Clarity there is a pine-like forest called the ‘Forest of Empty Green.’ Whoever eats its blossoms will have a body that shines with golden light. Without a subtle method of seeking, one cannot follow the path of cloud-energy up to the Golden Chamber; without reciting the “Cavern Chapters” (Daoist scriptural passages) over and over, one cannot see the Jade Guests, the perfected immortals.

Once you have ascended this path, you can glimpse the solemn, radiant gate and pluck the blossoms of Empty Green with your own hands.”

Chapter Four

The Master of the Supreme August, Lord of Purple Dawn, said: “The Great Darkness lies above the Nine Heavens. It is remote and profound, far beyond the Nine Mysterious Realms. Only those who recite the Great Cavern Jade Scripture may make contact with it. Thus, what is called ‘Cavern Visions’ is simply a dwelling within it by means of the wondrous Way.

In the Heaven of Jade Clarity there is the Terrace of Interwoven Splendor. Beneath it lies the Sea of Ten Thousand Fords, whose waters surge in waves like ranges of mountains.”

Chapter Five

The Heavenly Lord of Great Tenuity said: “The perfected beings of the Nine Heavens call the wind ‘Floating Golden Chamber.’ Above Bright Rosy Clouds stands a Golden Chamber; within the Jade Towers are nine gates. These places are all residences of Great Tenuity and jade palaces of the Heavenly Emperor.”

Chapter Six

The Lord of Purple Essence of the Three Origins said: “The Heaven of Purple Essence lies within the Great Nonbeing. The Qi of the Three Origins rests at the crossroads of the upper realms. ‘Brilliant Elegance’ is the name of a terrace in the Heaven of Jade Clarity; ‘Great Undifferentiated’ is the name of a palace hall there; and ‘Feathered Radiance’ is the name of an immortal’s carriage in the Heaven of Highest Clarity.”

Chapter Seven

The Lord of the Mysterious One, True Yang, the Elder of Primordial Origins, said: “‘True Yang’ is the name of a residence in Highest Clarity. ‘Jade Emperor’ refers to the perfected being within the Void; ‘Abode of Ease’ is the bright hall of true Qi. ‘Cinnabar Mysterious’...”

What is called the “Mud Pill” here is the divine court within the head. If, above the Zhenling, you recite the Dongjing seven times and visualize the Imperial Lord three times amid white Qi, the Perfected Ones will enter your name in their registers, and the Demon King will at once descend. Your life name will then be recorded in the Jade Palace, and the Five Elders will be summoned to the Golden Terrace.

The Supreme One has a gate called “Jade Feathers.” Heyan is the king who governs the fate of the womb; Xuanyi is the lord of the Three Qi; and the Elder of the Origin is a guest of the Supreme Emperor. Together they support the spirits within your body and engrave your name on a slip of the “Linked Blessings.” The Supreme One’s golden slips and jade tablets are known as the “Book of Linked Blessings.”

Chapter Eight

The Three Primordial Lords of Supreme Original Simplicity say: Within the Palace of the Three Primordials of Supreme Original Simplicity, there is a Qi of Three Blossoms, born naturally. It shines like a lotus and like a lamp at dawn. It is the radiance of the bright Qi in the Heaven of Jade Perfection, illuminating the Terrace of the Three Primordials.

“Hall of Vast Numinosity” is the name of a chamber in the palaces of Highest Clarity. If you can visualize “Female One” day and night—a method of inner visualization—and recite the Dongzhang ten thousand times, then the young attendant of Taiwei will carry the Five Charts beside the Imperial Lord, and the Perfected One of the Crimson Palace will receive the Five Talismans from the Fetal Lord. They will unite and transform with the Qi of the Three Simplicities, taking form from a radiance like a lamp at dawn. In this way, you will encounter no omen of death and will never die throughout your life.

Chapter Nine

The Three Lords of the Three Simplicities of Purple Essence in Highest Clarity say: In the Heaven of Purple Essence and Three Simplicities in Highest Clarity, there is a tree whose leaves resemble bamboo leaves but are red. Its flowers shine like mirrors, and its fruits resemble plums but have no pits. This tree is called the “Forest of Nurturing Blossoms.” Eating its leaves frees one from hunger; eating its flowers brings long life; and eating its fruits makes one a flying immortal. These are the crimson tree’s elixir fruits, whose radiant color illuminates the Five Viscera.

Unless you can remain calm and withdrawn for a long time, contemplating deeply and dwelling in the realm of Great Nonbeing, you will not be able to obtain and eat the fruits of the Forest of Nurturing Blossoms.

The Jade Chamber of Highest Clarity gives rise to clouds of the Seven Treasures, with seven layers of color and Qi divided into nine tiers. The boy Bifei and the girl Xuanmi can ride these precious clouds into the Heaven of Jade Clarity. Bifei is an inner spirit of Taiwei, and Xuanmi is a goddess of Jade Clarity.

If you can make the hundred spirits separate and reunite, coming and going, and enter, emerge, and transform between the Imperial One, so that the nine souls are harmonized and the five and seven are brought together, then you can rely on Bifei and summon Xuanmi. You will pass through the peril of death seven times, receive the protection of the Three Lights of the sun, moon, and stars, and have your life extended and your welfare specially guarded by the Five Elders. The Three Favors of the Supreme One will also unite with you. “Three Favors” is the name of the Supreme One’s Golden Chamber.

Chapter Ten

Azure Numina, Lord of Yang’an, said: “Azure Numina” is the rank held by a Perfected One, an honorific title for someone who has attained the Dao. The “Eight Qi” are the scene formed when layers of cloud Qi overlap and interweave. A “Lord” is a deity who governs destiny, appointed by the Sovereign of Emptiness. “Three Blossoms” is a palace chamber in the Jade Clarity Celestial Palace, where Azure Numina, Lord of Yang’an, resides.

Chapter Eleven

The Lord of the August Clarity and Grotto-Truth said: “August Clarity” refers to the Perfected Ones among the Three August Immortals of Highest Clarity. “Grotto-Truth” refers to the venerable sovereigns of Highest Clarity. They were born together beyond the Great Nonbeing and died together above Guanghan. They can both be born and die; thus the principles by which the August Clarity, Grotto-Truth, and Three Emperors jointly generate, transform, and govern all things arise.

The “Mother of the Sun” is the Old Mother of Jade Clarity, who oversees the wombs of the honored spirits. Her name is Zhenghui Tiaozhao. If one knows the Mother of the Sun’s name, the womb will open of its own accord, and the sins of seven generations of ancestors will also be erased.

Chapter Twelve

The Lord of High and Supreme Simplicity said: The August Man of High Sovereignty often holds banquets above the Purple Empyrean. The “Jade Root” is a mountain in the Celestial Heaven of Jade Clarity and the seat of the Five Elders of Highest Perfection. The Perfected One of Supreme Simplicity fans the light of the sun and moon before the First Emperor. In the Heaven of Supreme Simplicity, the sun is called “Subtle Radiance.”

“Jade Gate” and “Orchid Court” are both names for gateways in the Palace of Highest Clarity. There is a tree in the moon called the Qian Tree, also known as the Medicine King; there are eight of them in all. Those who obtain and eat its leaves become Jade Immortals, their bodies clear and transparent like crystal and glass.

Chapter Thirteen

The Central Lord of the Four Elders of the August Sovereign said: The Perfected Ones of the Four Elders of the August Sovereign dwell within the sun and cast no shadows. They call the sun “Nine Radiant Births” and often ride the Wheel of Luminous Jade, traveling through the sun and holding banquets there. “Vast Rosy Clouds” is a mountain in the Celestial Heaven of Jade Clarity, where the nine suns rise and where the Sun Emperor holds his seat.

Chapter Fourteen

The Supreme Great Dao Lord of Jade Dawn said: The Dao Lord safeguards form and image through the transformation of the Law, and gazes back at the bright mirror above Highest Clarity. In the Chamber of Jade Reflection, he loosens his robe and belt, rides the Eightfold Simplicity, enters the Gate of Four Brightnesses, and summons back the spirit kings in the sun and the exalted spirits in the moon.

“Jade Reflection” is the name of the Palace of Jade Dawn; “Four Brightnesses” is the southern gate of the Jade Emperor of Highest Clarity.

Chapter Fifteen

The Lord of the Great Dao of Great Clarity said: In the Heaven of Great Clarity there is a mountain named Floating Beyond…

Here, “King of the Gods” refers to the divine king who governs the immortals and gods of the heavens. In the region under his rule stands a Golden Splendor Tower. All immortals who have received the “Jade Register of True Immortals” (the roll of names of true immortals) dwell in this tower. The heavenly beings call the sun “Great Radiance.”

Chapter Sixteen

The Lord of Primordial Radiance of the Great Dao of Taiji says: “Taiji has a King of Primordial Radiance, who governs the immortals and gods of the Three Heavens. The Great Mists lie beyond the Great Clarity. The Perfected Ones of Taiji call the sun ‘Round Radiance.’”

Chapter Seventeen

The Lord of Purple Primordial Origin of the August Beginning says: “The Heaven of Purple Primordial Origin of the August Beginning is always filled with bright light, dense as a veil of faint clouds and rosy mists. It is where the nine suns rise, though their light shines as if there were only one sun. The Six Abysses is the name of the Lord’s palace, and Cold Lad is the name of a mountain. Thus it is said that by ascending Cold Lad Mountain, one can meet within the Six Abysses.”

Chapter Eighteen

The Lord of the Upper Age, True One of the Center, of the Unmanifested Hero says: “The Lord of the Upper Age, True One of the Center, of the Unmanifested Hero dwells in the Palace of the Upper Perfected and governs the registers of the Five Emperors. He unfastens the five talismans on your body—talismans associated with the five directions and the Five Phases—and causes the Five Spirits to come into being within your embryonic bones. He often wanders within the Purple Chamber and the Hall of Light.”

Chapter Nineteen

The Lord of the Yellow Elder at the Center says: “The Lord of the Yellow Elder at the Center is the True Sovereign among the Three Primes. Round Splendor is the name of the Yellow Elder Lord’s palace; Jade Longevity is a mountain in the Heaven of Great Tenuity. Both are places under the Yellow Elder Lord’s rule.”

Chapter Twenty

The Lord of Inner Radiance, the Azure Essence Upper Perfected, says: “In the Palace of Azure Essence there is an Upper Splendor Chamber. Within it is naturally formed azure Qi, called ‘the smoke of returning fragrance.’ Its scent can be detected three thousand li away, even against the wind. Purple Emptiness is the name of the mountain of Inner Radiance. The Lord of Azure Essence often rides a feathered carriage, taking the lad of Mysterious Radiance up Purple Emptiness Mountain and into the Jade Chamber.”

Chapter Twenty-One

The Primordial Lord of Jade Worth, of the Nine Qis of the Sun, says: “‘Nine Qis of the Sun’ is an exalted art for transforming the Three Mornings, riding a purple carriage beneath the Subtle Mysterious. Subtle Mysterious is the name of a spirit within the sun; the heavens also sometimes call the sun ‘Subtle Mysterious.’ ‘Opening Yin in the Great Mists’ is where the embryo spirit resides: when the embryo gate is closed, stagnant blood remains there; when it opens, it becomes the dwelling place of the infant spirit. The Great Mists are the root of the Mysterious Deep, and Opening Yin is the source of constant growth. If, once the embryo gate opens, it is clear and pure, then…” The original text ends here.

The Qi (vital energy) of the Supreme Unity belongs to Metal. Cultivating in the Great Wilderness can bring one to the Banquet of the Five Elders. “Opening the Yin of the Great Wilderness” means dispersing Yin Qi; “preserving the source of Yang for a long time” means safeguarding the root of Yang Qi over time. The source of Yang is like the vigor a person possesses. If a cultivator can keep this source from leaking away and prevent the Mysterious Spring—the spring of Jing and Qi within the body—from moving recklessly, remaining calm, tranquil, and deep, with mind and spirit settled, then the face can regain its youthful appearance, the years can be made to pass more slowly, and one can unite with the Qi of Lingjun.

Chapter Twenty-Two

The Ninefold Essence, Golden Radiance, and Scenery Primordial Lord of the Great Beginning said: In the Heaven of the Great Beginning stands the Palace of Radiant Scenery. Within it is the naturally formed Qi of the Ninefold Essence. Its breath swirls like mist, forming carved clouds in nine colors. Those who enter the mist will see their appearance change; those who dwell within it will undergo many transformations in form. There is also a river called “Celebratory Nectar,” a passage by which the fortunate cross over to the realm of immortals. And there is a pool called “Flowing Gurgle,” a thousand li across. Jade trees grow in the pool. Drinking its water makes the Five Viscera clear and transparent, while purple clouds appear upon the face.

Chapter Twenty-Three

The Lord of Destiny, True One of the Nine Sovereigns, said: The True One of the Nine Sovereigns is the Primordial Lord of the Jade Void. The Four Offices are the forbidden palace of the Celestial Emperor; Morning Radiance is the name of the Palace of Destiny of the Jade Void; Flying Rosy Clouds is the name of a mountain in the Heaven of the Jade Void; and the “Record of Transcendence” is a Fulu (talisman and register) bestowed by the Immortal Emperor.

Chapter Twenty-Four

The Threefold Primordial Lord of Jade Radiance, True One of the Celestial Emperor, said: The True One of the Celestial Emperor is the keeper of the sacred canons and ordinances of the True Ones of Shangqing, and the mother of the immortal maiden Jade Radiance; hence her title, the Threefold Primordial Lord of Jade Radiance. She rides a carriage called “Spirit’s Return,” ascends to the Palace of Cloud Whirlwinds, and enters the Chamber of Flowing Transcendence. “Spirit’s Return” is the name of a single-wheeled carriage ridden by the True Ones. The “Nine Bends” refers to the male genitalia, and the “Lower Gate” to the female genitalia. White cloud Qi often emerges from these parts, warming and nourishing the Yellow Court, an important site of cultivation within the body. This is a sign of attaining the Dao.

Chapter Twenty-Five

The Lord of the Forbidden Court of the Great Unity and Upper Origin said: The Lord of the Great Unity and Upper Origin governs the myriad immortals and also commands the true Qi of the regional peaks. His duties include removing names from the register of the dead and inscribing them in the register of the living. The King of Red Qi is the highest deity within the sun, named Jiangche Liang. Knowing the name of the King of Red Qi enables one to live forever and never die.

Chapter Twenty-Six

The True Dawn Lord of the Yellow Chamber in the Primordial Void said: The Yellow Chamber in the Primordial Void is the place governed by the True Dawn Immortal Lord; the Jade Palace is where the Fulu and registers of those who have attained the Dao are kept.

“Jiuyuan Zhenzhen” is the title of the Great Emperor of the Nine Origins. The Great Emperor’s name is “Zhen,” and his courtesy name is “Zhenzhao.” Those who know this title can live forever.

Chapter Twenty-Seven

The Primordial Lord of Taiji, ruler of the Four Perfected Ones, says: The Primordial Lord of Taiji rides in a Lingyu chariot, its splendid ornaments formed from clouds and Qi, drawn by nine dragons galloping in unison. He displays his power above the lofty heavens, turns his wheels at the Mound of Great Brightness, and sounds a bell at the Terrace of Vermilion Fire.

Chapter Twenty-Eight

The Lord of Blossoming Radiance, the True One of the Four Dippers and Seven Mornings, says: In the Yuqing Heaven stands a Blossoming Radiance Terrace, where the Dao Lords of the Four Dippers and Seven Mornings govern. In the Heaven of the Seven Mornings there is a fragrance called “Returning to Life,” which rises up into the Three Treasures Mountain. This mountain lies among the Four Dippers. At its summit is the Golden Lang Pavilion, known as the Palace of Reflected Clarity and Tranquility.

The Supreme Sovereign Perfected Ones in the palace bear precious light above their heads, while their bodies shine with a radiant halo. Their Qi corresponds to the five internal organs of the Three Treasures’ numinous grotto. The “Grotto Scripture” refers to this place when it says, “Fragrant winds stir, and the Three Treasures and five organs shine with clarity and tranquility.”

Chapter Twenty-Nine

The Primordial Lord of Yellow Radiance in the Celestial Sphere says: The Perfected Ones of the Celestial Sphere wear the Welcoming and Prolonging Talisman and ascend to the Court of the Great Empyrean. They ride on feathered wheels at the Terrace of Blue Waves and wear jade insignia at the Palace of Great Rosy Clouds.

Chapter Thirty

The Lord of Upper Radiance, the Great Emperor Li, the Rear Sage of the Golden Gate and Supreme Peace, says: Within the Golden Gate is the Qi of Upper Radiance, dense in color and shining in all ten directions. It is the numinous capital of the Rear Sage and the gathering place of the Qi of Supreme Peace. People cultivate longevity within the sun’s Qi and nurture the three roots of life in the courtyard of the moon palace. The five poisons are cut off, the perils of sinking and extinction are dispelled, bonds are undone, and life can thereby continue in Heaven.

Chapter Thirty-One

The Perfected Lord Peng of the Chamber, the Rear Sage of the Great Void, says: Within the Great Rosy Clouds stands a chamber called Pengpeng. It is built from white Qi, with nine layers of clouds forming its roof and walls, while purple mist encircles its doors. It is where the radiance of spirits and deities gathers, and so it is called the “Chamber of Pengpeng.” It is also the dwelling of the Primordial Lady of the Great Void.

Chapter Thirty-Two

The Immortal Lord, the Elder of Nine Qi in the Great Dark Capital, rides the wind of the Morning Return and ascends the Mountain that Dispels Stagnation. There he makes the luxuriant mists shine, then enters the Palace of Great Radiance. He fells the womb tree at the Gate of Death and nurtures fetal Qi at the beginning of the netherworld, providing aid… (The original text ends here.)

The Five Poisons are five things that harm people. The meaning of the sentence “於常關定三命於金書” and its relation to the surrounding passage are unclear, so its meaning is provisionally retained as in the original.

Chapter Thirty-Three

The Lord Lao of the Eight Emperors of the Upper Clarity says: The Heaven of Upper Clarity lies beyond the Faraway Clouds. The Lord Lao of the Eight Emperors commands the immortals of the Nine Heavens and dwells in the Palace of Upper Clarity. He rides the Vast Radiance carriage and holds a phoenix-feather tally. He ascends Mount Huabian and enters the Hall of the Great Elder. The perfected beings of Upper Clarity call the sun and moon “Great Treasure” and “Nine Splendors.”

Chapter Thirty-Four

The High Dawn Master, the Jade-Treasure Immortal King of the Palace of Fangzhu in Eastern Florescence, says: Eastern Florescence, where Lord Green Youth dwells, is a gathering place for immortals and perfected beings. It lies between the First Radiance and is governed by the High Dawn Jade-Treasure King. The perfected beings of Eastern Florescence call the sun “Purple Radiance” and also “Round Pearl.” Lord Green Youth rides a carriage adorned with carved jade, harnesses the Qi of the “Round Pearl,” ascends Cloud-Wave Mountain, and enters the Hall of Eastern Florescence.

Chapter Thirty-Five

The Great Emperor and Nine Elders, Immortal Sovereign Lord of Fusang, says: “Capital of the Nine Elders” is the name of a mountain near Fusang. The Nine Elders, Immortal Sovereigns, dwell in the region of Fusang and govern the Capital of the Nine Elders. The Great Emperor governs the treetops of Fusang and holds assemblies on the Fangzhang Terrace. These two Daoist lords sometimes ride a Feather-Merging carriage, whose colors resemble layers of overlapping clouds. They ascend to the treetops of Fusang, meet at the Capital of the Nine Elders, take out the Spirit Gate talisman, and summon the Great Demon King.

Chapter Thirty-Six

The Jade Lord, Master of the Chart, Little-Being Jade Perfected and Ten-Thousand Blossoms, says: In the Heaven of the Little-Being Jade Perfected stands the Palace of Ten Thousand Blossoms, governed by the Master of the Chart, Little-Being Jade Perfected. The palace holds the precious scriptures of the Supreme Emperor and the hidden books of Jade Clarity. It also has a Hall for Contemplating the Cavern, suspended in the Great Nonbeing. “Crooked Paths of the Deep Springs” refers to the underworld ruled by the Demon King. Once practitioners have attained the Way of the One of the Cavern, they can be removed from the registers of the Crooked Paths of the Deep Springs and have their immortal names entered in the Register of Spirit Feathers.

Chapter Thirty-Seven

The Lord Who Administers Prohibitions, Supreme Emperor of the Twenty-Nine Perfected Beings of Mysterious Isle, says: Mysterious Isle has a “Ford of the Three Drownings,” which none but flying immortals can cross. There is also the Hall of Feathered Radiance, located in the Court of the Great Nonbeing, and the Palace of Utter Emptiness, situated among the Five Clouds. The Immortal Mother Wangling and the Immortal Maiden Jinhua often travel there.

You sometimes ride the sun and moon chariot, wearing a tiger-striped fur robe. You climb Mount Chongmo and enter the Hall of Feathered Splendor, where immortals are entertained. You wash your robes and sash in the Pool of the Imperial River, and at last arrive at the palace where immortals gather in the skies.

Chapter Thirty-Eight

The Lord of the Taowu Morning Realm, who dwells in that realm, said to the Lord of Taisu in the cavern palace’s jade chamber on Mount Emei: “Taowu lies beyond the Cavernous Radiance, while Taisu lies above the Hidden Mystery. Outside the Great Su realm, the Nine Palaces stand in rows of golden gates. In the courtyard of Taowu, cinnabar towers rise in seven tiers. These are the places where the Three Primordial Lords of Taisu dwell and travel.”

Chapter Thirty-Nine

The Lord of the Golden Elixir, the Ninefold-Spirit True Immortal Mother of Western Yuan Turtle Mountain, said: “On Mount Kunlun are the Hall of the Ninefold Spirits and the Palace of the Golden Elixir and Flowing Clouds. The palace reaches upward to the wheel of the Jade Pivot, which symbolizes the movement of the heavens, and rests below in the Great Void. This is the domain governed by the Queen Mother of the West. Western Yuan Turtle Mountain lies west of Mount Kunlun and is where the Jade Consort of the Great Emperor dwells.”

Explanation of the Title The Jade Register of the Eight Radiances of Golden Mystery from the Cavern of Truth, by the Lord of the Great Dao Most High

The Immortal of Eastern Florescence called it The Hidden Writ of the Eight Su of the Most High; the Immortal of Southern Florescence called it The Great Cavern Scripture; the Immortal of Western Florescence called it The Jade Scripture of Golden Truth and Jade Radiance Shining on Heaven, Contemplated in the Cavern; and the Immortal of Northern Florescence called it The Highest Scripture of the Nine Luminaries, the Seven Primordial Powers, and the Vast Emptiness. The Central Immortal called the Yellow Emperor Lao it The Jade Register of the Eight Radiances of the Most High and Highest Sage.

The Lord of the Yellow Emperor Lao of the Center and the Primordial Lord of the Southern Pole stored these two scriptures in the Mysterious Cloud Feather Chamber of the Jade Terrace of Taisu, sealing them in a case of the Forest of Abundance. The Three Primordial Lords of Jade Clarity then ordered seven hundred Dragon-Blossom Jade Maidens from the Golden Terrace of the Northern Cold and seven hundred Western-Spirit Jade Boys from the White Void Palace of Yu to come and serve as its guardians.

At midnight on the first day of the ninth month in the eleventh year of the Yonghe era of the Jin dynasty, in the year Yimao, this scripture was transmitted by Lady Wang of the Purple Tenuity. The complete scripture contains 20,230 characters, of which The Great Cavern Scripture comprises 10,000.

The Jade Register of the Eight Radiances of Golden Mystery of the Lord of the Great Dao Most High, Highest Sage of Shangqing

The Lord of the Great Dao Most High, Highest Sage of Shangqing, is said to have condensed from the vital energies of the Two Mornings and the purple vapor of the auspicious clouds. His jade-colored radiance shone brightly, his golden light illuminated the world, and his true Qi flowed. His wondrous breath took shape, giving birth to mysterious spirits. He was conceived in his mother’s womb and gradually grew.

His name in the human world was Kaitian, and his heavenly name was Kaiyuan. After his mother had carried him for 3,700 years, he was born on Mount Yucha in the Western Na Heaven.

At the place of Danxuan on Mount Fuluo, he received the rank of Jade Void, Gazing on the Scene, of the Highest Clarity, and became the Great Lord of the Dao, the Most High and Holy Jade Dawn. He dwelt in the Hall of the Sun Gate of the Jewel Buds. There, seven radiant purple chambers and three hundred thousand Jade Boys and Jade Maidens attended and guarded him.

He then swung his staff as he traveled among the Seven Gardens, raised a blue-green banner and planted a vermilion standard, danced through the air, and sped along on the sun’s rays, circling among the clouds of the eight directions. He leaned back to gather the sun’s radiance and pick up its fallen pearls; he plucked jade-like fruit from the Crimson Grove and ate the purple lotuses of the Dark River. Seated at ease in his numinous carriage, he took charge of the Celestial Emperor’s documents. The myriad spirits bowed to him, while the Five Virtues held the talismanic commands.

The Celestial Emperor, the Supreme True One who Attends the Dawn, held a scroll of diagrams and gazed up at the sky, saying: “If you wish to become an immortal, you should visualize the sovereign within the sun, riding dragons and phoenixes and traveling on the clouds of Heaven. Journey east to the Mulberry Grove, then enter the gate of the Celestial Emperor. If you wish to ascend to Heaven, you should visualize the lady within the moon, riding ten flying dragons and borne upon my ringing bells. Go west to pay homage to the Six Ridges, and at last arrive at the Celestial Emperor’s hall.”

The practitioner must set the mind and spirit in motion, focus their thoughts with utmost sincerity, and make a morning audience before the Jade Emperor. The brilliant radiance of Yuyi, the spirit of the sun, spreads out in abundance, allowing one to tread upon the sunlight; the bright light of Jielin, the spirit of the moon, unfolds and reaches the highest heavens. The two sovereigns of the sun and moon ride together in one carriage, seeming to endure even before the Dao of Heaven. “Great Being” refers to the Purple Palace in the Nine Heavens; “Lesser Being” is the foremost of the thirty-six Clear Void Heavens.

The Great Lord of the Dao first rode a carriage of the First Radiance, drawn by purple clouds of the Eight Purities. Accompanied by Fengzi, the name-record of the Azure Emperor of the Subtle and Inaudible, he traveled east to the Heaven of Yuyue, Nalin, and the Jade Terrace of Chang. There he paid a visit to the Jade Clarity Purple Dao, the Void Emperor Above, and received the Hidden Talisman of the Nine Radiances and Great Dawn.

Next, the Great Lord of the Dao rode a carriage of the Second Radiance, drawn by crimson clouds of the Seven Purities. Accompanied by Ding Wuyan, the name-record of the Red Emperor of the Central Subtlety, he traveled south to the Heaven of Gaotao, Lichong, and Longluo. There he paid a visit to the Jade Clarity, Lord of the Day, the Void Emperor and Supreme Lord of the Dao, and received the Hidden Talisman for Contemplating the Numinous and Primordial Dawn.

Then the Great Lord of the Dao rode a carriage of the Third Radiance, drawn by red clouds of the Six Purities. Accompanied by Qu Yuanshi, the name-record of the White Emperor of the Purple Subtlety, he traveled west to the Heaven of Bikong, Geyin, and Li. There he paid a visit to the Jade Clarity, Lord of Changyang, the Primordial Void Emperor of High Origin, and received the Hidden Talisman of the Nine Extremes, All-Dawn.

The Great Lord of the Dao then rode a carriage of the Fourth Radiance, drawn by blue-green clouds of the Five Purities. Accompanied by Qi Yuanxuan, the name-record of the Black Emperor of the Dark Subtlety, he traveled north to the Heaven of Nimo, Tanlou, and Yuyi. There he paid a visit to the Jade Clarity, the Sevenfold Stillness, the Dao-Born High Void Emperor, and received the Hidden Talisman of the Multitude of Radiances.

The Great Lord of the Great Dao (Taishang Dadaojun) in turn rode the chariots of the Five Radiances, Six Radiances, Seven Radiances, and Eight Radiances. He traveled with the Four Pure Ones’ yellow clouds, the Three Pure Ones’ green clouds, the Two Pure Ones’ purple clouds, and the One Pure One’s numinous clouds, leading the four emperors on their journey. They proceeded in turn toward the northeast, southeast, southwest, and northwest, going to the corresponding heavenly realms. There they paid their respects to the Lord of the Void Emperor in the Jade Clarity Realm and received their respective hidden talismans: the Hidden Talisman of Dawn Light, the Hidden Talisman of Joined Radiance and Dawn Destiny, the Hidden Talisman of Aligned Radiance and Dawn Mystery, and the Hidden Talisman of the Lofty Dragon’s Mist.

Afterward, the Great Lord of the Great Dao rode the Jade Chariot of Cavern Radiance, surrounded by the light of Great Rosy Clouds, Purple Mist, and Dark Radiance. He led Shen Mingxian, the Inner Emperor of the Nine Subtlety, together with the many Perfected Ones and Immortal Kings of the August Sovereign, the Nine Mysteries, and the Nine Heavens, up to the Mifaluo Terrace. They flew over distant, desolate hills and arrived at the capital of Flying Origin and Cloud Root. Entering the Upper Heaven of Jade Clarity, they paid their respects to the Supreme Jade Emperor of Jade Clarity, Purple Radiance, and August Light, the Lord of the Great Dao. There they received the hidden talisman of the Lofty, Clear, Great Void, and Infinite Supreme Dao Lord.

An Explanation of the Scripture of the Seven Turns and Seven Transformations of the Heavenly Dance of the Supreme Spirit’s Divine Continent

The Divine Continent lies north of the Gate of Heaven, with the paths of the sun and moon circling its southern side. Seven stars revolve at its center: by day, the eight celestial axes move to the left; by night, the seven celestial courses move to the right. The seven stars make their rounds, turning back the light of Heaven and setting numinous energy in motion. This is where the August Sovereign, Lord of Purple Dawn, received his teachings. By practicing the method of the Seven Turns, a practitioner can advance in rank to Jade Clarity.

The way of the Seven Turns and Seven Transformations was received by the August Sovereign, Lord of Purple Dawn, from the Father and Mother of the Nine Heavens. After completing his practice, he transmitted this way to the August Sovereign Lord of the Mysterious and Responsive Clear Heaven. That lord then passed it to the Jade Lad of the Three Heavens, who in turn transmitted it to the True Origin Lord of the Purple Pole.

The line of transmission was as follows: the Celestial Emperor transmitted the teachings to the Lord of the Upper Origin of the South Pole, who passed them to the Lord Celestial Emperor of Taiwei. He in turn transmitted them to the Lord of the Golden Tower, the Later Sage, who then passed them to the Lord of the Azure Youth, the High Minister. The teachings were handed down through the generations in a clear line of succession. These scriptures were transmitted only once after the passage of countless kalpas. The King of the Lesser Heaven later compiled them into a single scroll and sealed it away in the Western Citadel Mountain. All who received the scriptures were to respectfully invite the holy lords to the Upper Clarity Palace and provide twenty-one Jade Youths and twenty-one Jade Maidens to guard the scriptures and support those who practiced them.

The Jade Chapters of the Divine Continent consists of fourteen chapters. They are musical compositions performed by fourteen imperial lords in the wilds of the caverns, and describe the inner names of the hundred gods, the mysterious forms of the Jade Heaven, and the vital essences of the three lights: the sun, moon, and stars. When recited, these chapters ring out with a clear, resonant voice. After the Lord of the Upper Origin had recited them ten thousand times, he ascended to Heaven in broad daylight.

Explaining the Scripture of the Divine Tiger’s Supreme Talisman for Dispelling Demons and Wisdom

“Divine” means wondrous and unfathomable, with transformations without end. The workings of Yin-Yang are likewise beyond prediction, which is why they are called “divine.” “Tiger” conveys might, a power that shakes distant lands; divine radiance shines forth brilliantly in the realm of Highest Clarity. “Supreme” refers to the Most High, a Daoist honorific for the highest sacred realm, who dwells in secret in the Upper Palace of the Numinous Capital. There are seven thousand Divine Tigers, arrayed at the Jade Gate. Hence the name “Divine Tiger.”

A “talisman” is a token of authority: the Most High uses it to summon the myriad spirits. “Dispelling demons” means destroying ghosts and demons. Those who possess jade tablets, have their names inscribed in the Purple Palace, and practice the highest scriptures and methods are inevitably troubled by malign spirits and tested by ghosts and demons. At such times, they should recite this scripture: the hundred yang forces will surge like lightning, the thousand yin forces will rise up with power, the Six Heavens will lose their strength, and the Nine Demons will vanish.

“Wisdom” is like a star in the sun. “Insight” reminds people that the ceaseless generation of life is essential. The character for “insight” thus symbolically contains two instances of “life,” joined side by side and pointing together toward what is urgent. After reciting the scripture five thousand times, one’s spirit and understanding will become clear, and sacred wisdom will shine forth. Then, by command, one will ride the Eight Radiances and ascend to the heights, mounting the Divine Tiger to rise into Heaven. This is a mighty way of transformation, which is why the scripture is called the Scripture of Dispelling Demons and Wisdom.

Explaining the Marvelous Scripture of the Great Presence in the Cavernous Mystery of the Most High and Unadorned Numinous Palace

“Great” means vast and all-encompassing, without boundaries. “Supreme” means dwelling above the boundless realm and is also a title of the Dao Lord. “Unadorned Numinous” is the name of a palace. “Cavernous” means penetrating Heaven and Earth, with nothing beyond its reach. “Mystery” refers to what is hidden and profound. “Great Presence” is the name of a palace. “Marvelous” means refined to the utmost.

Here, “scripture” (jing) means managing, promoting, and reaching the deepest principles. It also serves to regulate the vital points of the spirits, and so it is called a scripture.

The Way of the Three True Ones in the Upper Transformation of the Mysterious Elixir and the Primordial Cavern had its roots in existence alongside the Mysterious Qi and came into being together with the Primordial Beginning. Three kinds of refined Qi gathered and transformed, forming a luminous jade scroll. From it, the dwellings of the Three Caverns were established and unfolded, governing the place to which all the perfected ones return. This scripture was kept in secret above the Nine Heavens, in the Golden Terrace and Jade Chamber of the Great and Wondrous Palace, in the Chamber of Pure Spirits. It lay in a remote, mysterious realm amid the radiance of the beginning. At that time, the high sages and Celestial Emperors fasted for three months. Following the intent of the Great Darkness, they used mysterious contemplation to commune with the realm of Great Stillness. Only after many years of accumulated effort was the scripture opened and received in the Upper Clarity. It was later named after the place where it was stored.

Explanation of the Scripture of the Feathered Ones’ Flight through the Nine Paths, Returning to the Origin

“Returning to the Origin” refers to the guiding principle and pivot by which the stellar origin turns. The celestial wheel is like an enormous set of spokes in the void, harmonizing the Qi of the four seasons so that it can circulate without end. The “Nine Paths” are the nine stars of the Northern Dipper. Their movement allows the Five Constants to spread, while the Five Phases follow their courses and establish their measures. All things receive life by taking on these patterns of movement; all this comes about through the turning of the Nine Paths.

The “Scripture of the Feathered Ones’ Flight” tells how the Father and Mother of the Nine Heavens and the Elder of Great Perfection rode together in a chariot drawn by a luminous dragon and came to rest in a boundless realm. Suddenly, mysterious spirits descended with auspicious signs. A chariot of white luan birds and a black-feathered phoenix appeared, each bearing a plain scroll in its beak. They rose into the sky, walked through the void, and passed through realms without end. Hence the scripture was named the Scripture of the Flight of White Feathers and Black Plumes.

Explanation of the Primordial Register of the Ninefold Numinous and Greatly Wondrous Tortoise Mountain

Tortoise Mountain lies at the northwest corner of Heaven. It is surrounded by forty million li, and its height reaches the realm of Jade Clarity. It is the land granted to the Queen Mother of the West.

“Primordial Register” refers to the mysterious laws by which the perfected ones of the Ninefold Void first come into being and transform. These laws were written down in a register, hence the name. The scripture is inscribed in Tortoise Mountain’s Flowing Essence Purple Gate and Golden Splendor Jade Hall. Its meaning is profound and its cadence graceful. As it is a book and record of the Nine Heavens, it is named after Tortoise Mountain.

Explanation of the Hidden Charts of the Great Being, Eightfold Endowment, and Great Cinnabar

“Great Being” is the name of a palace above the Nine Heavens. “Eight” refers to the eight seasonal divisions, the eight periods of the year; “endowment” means the laws by which those periods are bestowed; “Great Cinnabar” is the name of the Southern Palace; “hidden” means concealed, and “charts” means written texts.

The meaning is this: on auspicious days at the eight seasonal divisions, banquets and celebrations are held in Heaven, called the “Great Celebration of the Eightfold Endowment and the Opening of the Perfected.” At such times, the myriad spirits gather to deliberate. The scripture says that on these days, those who cultivate the Way may have their names entered and their petitions presented at the Palace of Great Being. They must first purify their minds, observe a fast, and confess their faults; afterward, they may ascend to life in the Southern Palace.

Explanation of the Scripture of the Seven Sages’ Mysterious Record, Returning Heaven through the Nine Empyreans

I will interpret the text paragraph by paragraph, preserving Daoist technical terms. The final section currently stops at the character “移,” so the interpretation will end where the available text ends. The Seven Sages are the High Sage Jade Emperor Lord, the High Sage Great Lord of the Dao, the Supreme Sage Purple Clarity, Great Purity, Three Origins Lord, the Supreme Sage Queen Mother of the West of the White Jade Tortoise Terrace and Ninefold Numina, the Supreme Sage Central Yellow Old Lord, the Supreme Sage Great Emperor of Fusang, and the Later Sage Golden Tower Lord.

The “Mysterious Register” is a secret book recording the immortal names of those who have attained the Dao. The seven sages each record in it the names of people who have attained the Dao. “Returning to Heaven” refers to the Great Lord of the Dao carrying a covenant token as he returns to the celestial realm from the Jade Void Purple Guest Palace, ascending through the light of Heaven to the Vermilion Palace in the ninth heaven, and traveling above the bright clouds and through the nine expanses. The Nine Empyreans are the nine heavens, also called the Nine Expanses. By command, the Supreme Sage Lords gather the flying primordial Qi in the Nine Expanses, where it naturally takes the form of writing. The Mysterious Register then records the names of later generations who study the Dao and attain it. These writings have subtle, resonant sounds that accord with the clear tones of jade and take shape by receiving true Qi. Some appear as written characters; others are expressed through hidden sounds. The convergences and transformations of the six directions—above and below, and the four quarters—are all used to mark these mysterious immortal names.

Explanation of “The Secret Talisman of the Five Phases in the Winding Plain Formula”

“Winding” is the name of a terrace, while “Plain” refers to the plain substance of the eight directions. Above the Mystic Capital stands the lofty Nine-Curved Phoenix Terrace, formed entirely from naturally gathered phoenix Qi. On the terrace are halls of jade and rooms of precious stone, situated above the nine heavens and south of the Jade Capital. There, the fused true Qi of the Eight Convergences arises from the void, winding through layer upon layer and reaching the eight directions. It draws upward the wings that soar on the rising whirlwind and extends sideways to the clear numinous Qi of the eight directions; hence the name “Winding Plain.”

“Formula” means an essential teaching, and “words” are lyrics that express sorrow and joy. This text gathers the orthodox Qi of the Nine Origins and sets it down in words expressing sorrow and joy: upward, it celebrates the happiness of the immortals and perfected beings; downward, it grieves for the suffering of living beings. Hence it is called “Words of Sorrow and Joy.”

The “Five Phases” are Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth. “Secret” means kept in the Jade Palace of Highest Clarity. “Talisman” means writing: written signs formed as the refined Qi of the five colors flows and gathers. It can harmonize and transform the myriad perfected beings, and encompass and govern the spirits.

Explanation of “The Scripture of the Three Diagrams of the Celestial Gate and the Shifting Course of the Seven Stars”

The “Three Diagrams of the Celestial Gate” refer to a jade terrace above the nine heavens, called the Celestial Gate, and also known as the Celestial Diagram or Celestial Opening. It is the passage and hub of the Gate of Life in the nine heavens. Five thousand li to the west lies the Golden Tower Palace; nine thousand li to the east lies the Azure Florescence Palace; and the Jade Clarity Palace is seven thousand li above. This is where the many immortals pass, where divine beings come and go, and where those who study the Dao travel.

The “Seven Stars” refer to the Northern Dipper. The original text breaks off at “shift…”; the meaning of what follows cannot be interpreted from the text available.

Celestial Patterns and the Sequence of Cultivation

The sun and moon move along their own orbits, and the Big Dipper passes through its gates in turn. When it turns upward, it receives the vital breath of the Nine Heavens (Jiutian) and the Luminous Sovereign (Minghuang, lord of the heavens). When it turns downward, it nourishes and spreads its influence throughout the Heavens of Pure Practice (fanxing zhutian), the realms where those who maintain pure conduct dwell. The routes the Jade Emperor of Supreme Height (Gaoshang Yudi, the highest deity of Daoism) takes on his journeys and feasts are the methods that Daoist students have selected and recorded and have come to understand. These materials were compiled by the Supreme Ministers (shangxiang, the high officials of the heavenly court) to guide later students. Anyone who understands the order of the palaces of the Lord on High, and the places visited by the Perfected of the Highest Rank (shangzhen), can cultivate themselves into a Realized Person (zhenren).

Abolishing the Six Heavens and Establishing the Orthodox Method of the Three Heavens

"Chu" (abolish) means to put an end to something. The Six Heavens are the Heaven of Red Void (Chixu Tian), the Heaven of Great Mystery Capital (Taixuan Dudian), the Heaven of Pure Brightness (Qinghao Tian), the Heaven of Great Mystery (Taixuan Tian), the Heaven of Great Mystery Granary (Taixuan Cangtian), and the Heaven of Great Clarity (Taiqing Tian). According to the scripture, these six heavens arose after the Yellow Emperor, and afterward people in the world fought with one another and harmed one another. They no longer followed the principle of nature, and so the Way of the Six Heavens flourished. Taishang (Most High Lord Lao, a revered deity of Daoism) then sent ghostly soldiers to drive out evildoers during the three dynasties. However, the rulers of the Six Heavens acted in the name of Taishang. In response, Taishang sent down jade writings that cut off the vital energy of the Six Heavens, and he then issued the Orthodox Method of the Three Heavens to cut away wicked conduct and to save good people. The Three Heavens are the Heaven of Pure Subtlety (Qingwei Tian), the Heaven of Yuyu (Yuyu Tian), and the Heaven of Great Red (Dachi Tian).

The Purple Writings of Qingyao and the Scriptures of the Golden Root

Qingyao is another name for Zi Qing Di Jun (Lord of the Purple Clarity), one of the revered deities of Daoism. "Purple writings" refers to scriptures written with purple brush. "Gold" refers to golden tablets (jinjian), which are books made of gold. "Root" refers to the Root of the Sun (rigen), a method of drawing in the essence of sunlight. "Scriptures" refers to the gathering of the most essential content from many classics. The general meaning is this: the Jade Emperor ordered the Supreme Attendant Perfected (gaoshang shizhen) and the Lord Director of the Immortals (zongxianjun, the high deity who oversees all immortals) to follow the method of the Root of the Sun. They were to collect and compile the catalog of precious texts, combine them into a body of scriptures, write them in purple brush on golden tablets, and divide them into chapters to form books.

Stone Essence and the Hiding of Form

Stone essence (shijing) is a "wondrous iron" (miaotie), that is, a mysterious and marvelous iron. Stone is the substance of iron, and its essence is the fluid within the stone. When this is smelted into a sword, the sword gives off a golden radiance. "Gold" is the body of the sword, and "radiance" is the luster of its blade. "Hiding the form" (cangjing) means concealing one's bodily shape, and "leaving a substitute form" (lu xing) means leaving behind a double in one's place.

The Taishang Nine Red Mottled Talisman and the Inner Scripture of the Five Thearchs

Taishang is the honorific title of the Great Dao of Limitless Non-Polarity (Wuji Dadao). "Nine Red" refers to the vital breath of the Nine Primes (Jiu Yuan), and the Nine Primes are the Five Sacred Mountains (Wuyue) and the Four Seas (Sihai). Because the mountains and seas are mottled with many colors, they are called "mottled" (ban). "Talisman" (fu) is the perfected script, that is, sacred written symbols. When the Five Sacred Mountains receive it, they can guard the earth. When the Four Seas receive it, they can moisten all things. When the Five Thearchs (Wudi) receive it, they can manifest their spiritual power. When ordinary people receive it, they can become immortals (shenxian).