《太上靈寶淨明玉真樞真經》
About this page. The original text of 《太上靈寶淨明玉真樞真經》 (Taiping 太平部, 1 volume) is shown in Classical Chinese as transmitted in the Kanripo (Kyoto University) edition. An English interpretation of the 2 passages on this page accompanies it: select a passage or press “Interpretation” to show it. All texts in English
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Source textInterpretation
Vol. 1
This scripture records four Daoist classics compiled into a single volume, primarily recounting the experiences of Master Danyang (a Daoist practitioner) in attaining enlightenment through studying the Dao at Fusang Palace and Qionglou City, along with the essential methods for cultivating the "Jade Perfection" technique.
During his practice, Master Danyang acquired the primordial Qi (innate energy) of heaven and earth, drank the nectar of essence, and ultimately obtained the Jade Perfection Scripture in the Jade Pure Realm (the highest celestial realm in Daoism). The scripture emphasizes that cultivating the Dao requires perseverance and tranquil contemplation; achieving immortality demands unwavering faith; encountering sages necessitates sincere purity; and comprehending emptiness requires inner clarity. Those who master the secrets of "Jade Perfection" will find their words and actions in harmony with the celestial immortals.
The latter part describes the stages of cultivation in poetic verse: during meditation, when the mind is clear and serene, one may journey spiritually to the Three Pure Heavens (Sanqing); while visualizing the star altar, one can project the yang spirit; receiving the summons of perfected beings, one rides the pure wind straight into the Big Dipper; traveling between Mars and Jupiter to pay homage to the Celestial Worthy. At advanced stages of cultivation, one encounters numerous immortals welcoming and escorting them as they traverse the thirty-two celestial realms.
Finally, it highlights three marvelous functions of "Jade Perfection": its fragrance can elevate the physical body to heaven; its Qi can lift entire dwellings skyward; and its liquid can transform into countless offerings for celestial deities. Practitioners who constantly visualize the shifting five-colored clouds above their heads, contemplate cranes dancing and dragons soaring through the skies, or meditate on the celestial gift of jade nectar will attain the supreme state of "ascending on clouds while standing firm on earth."
(Note: Fusang Palace and Qionglou City are legendary abodes of immortals; the Three Pure Ones refer to the Jade Pure, Upper Pure, and Grand Pure Heavens; the Big Dipper holds significant importance in Daoism; "projecting the yang spirit" represents an advanced stage in Neidan/internal alchemy practice.)
This scripture elucidates the essential techniques and precautions for practicing "Yuangang Feibu" (a Daoist ritual stepping method resembling constellations):
The cultivation of Yuangang Feibu must be continuous—only through prolonged persistence can genuine transformation be achieved. This stepping method isn't mere movement between east and west, but resembles an eagle soaring and circling through shifting winds. When observing the vast heavens amid these currents, one must take care to avoid the perilous Gang winds (the fierce celestial gales recognized in Daoist cosmology).
The text describes mighty demon kings dwelling in the celestial realms, wielding bamboo scrolls and horn bows. Regardless of wisdom or folly, all may be summoned to Luofeng (the Daoist underworld)—only by maintaining pure Zhengqi (upright Qi) can one resist. Without wearing the Fulu (ritual talismans and registers that authenticate practitioners), one will inevitably suffer tribulations. Disciples must remember to uphold the precepts and diligently cultivate the Eight Extremities (symbolizing comprehensive practice in all directions).
The scripture emphasizes that those who violate the principles of loyalty and filial piety forfeit divine protection and risk confinement in the Dongshen hell realms. Never claim the Jingming (Pure Brightness) teachings lack efficacy—only through cultivation can one ascend the immortal registers. Know that the names of Xiangong (high-ranking immortals) are all recorded in the celestial registers; progress systematically to reach the divine palaces. Those unwilling to follow the Dao will sink into the Five Turbidities (a Buddhist concept of worldly defilements adopted here), moving even immortal masters to weep for them.
The final passage reveals the core practice: diligently study the Jade Pivot Scripture (Yushu Jing) to maintain Shen (spirit) cohesion; the "Jade Purity" (one's innate authentic nature) manifests through stillness, while the heart-mind must remain upright and serene. To comprehend the true meaning of Jingming is to grasp the essential state of Jade Purity.
(Note: This passage integrates ritual techniques, ethical precepts, and spiritual realization, embodying the Jingming Dao's emphasis on loyalty/filial piety as foundational, with balanced internal-external cultivation.)
Source text: Kanripo 漢籍リポジトリ(KR5e0006); Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0 · Report an error / feedback