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《太上洞玄靈寶三十二天尊應號經》

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Taiping 太平部 1 volumes 6,999 characters

About this page. The original text of 《太上洞玄靈寶三十二天尊應號經》 (Taiping 太平部, 1 volume) is shown in Classical Chinese as transmitted in the Kanripo (Kyoto University) edition. An English interpretation of the 13 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

太上洞玄靈寳三十二天天尊應號經 第十二卷(自第一卷至/十一卷原缺)母八   慾界    清明何童天 爾時衆會有一仙人名曰梵明從座而起嚴 整衣冠前進上問清明何童天帝君曰我昔 侍覲天尊歷游靈館得見法會不可思議今 日之光未曾有此聖真仙品咸進秩位歡喜 踴躍不能自勝十方天尊冠華晨之冠衣雲 錦之服一音說法度諸天人左侍上聖真仙 右衛金剛力士飛霜紫宻瓊蘂芝英反風靈 香衝天翳日是時應會欣躍難言預是衆生 咸得安樂不審下界諸男女人无數生來積 習成業生生世世因縁得免考責當何歸向 可解深尤 清明何童天帝君曰汝大慈行愍諸衆生如 此因縁功勳甚重爲汝解說諦而奉之衆生 縁報非一可原遍祈真靈方得解免今開金 華宫中銀簡玉録天尊應號以示將來祕而 奉之勿妄宣泄有心男女當勤敬禮乞削深 尤燒香明燈思神禮師一如科法鳴天鐘十 二咽液三過調聲正氣詠无量洞章 清明稼禄滋那逕反龍山阿秀玉林條 奕奕四垂騫忽覺靈劫化訶摩以敷辰 流真三界庭吟嘯來運勤 清明何童天金華宫中銀簡玉録東方九氣 天中无極世界一百天尊慈悲應號燒香齋 靜禮拜願念削落明真九幽玉匱長夜之函 普使人天離苦解脫消塵沙罪累獲无量善 縁
Interpretation

The twelfth scroll of The Most High Dongxuan Lingbao Scripture of the Thirty-Two Heavenly Honored Ones' Responsive Names (the first eleven scrolls being lost) records the realm of "Pure Brightness and Innocence Heaven" (Qingming Hetian Tian) within the "Desire Realm" (Yujie). During this Dharma assembly, an immortal named Fanming rose respectfully, adjusted his robes, and inquired of the Heavenly Lord of Pure Brightness and Innocence: "I have accompanied the Heavenly Honored Ones on journeys through immortal realms and witnessed countless Dharma assemblies, yet today's gathering is exceptionally sublime. All the perfected immortals have been elevated in rank, the Honored Ones of the Ten Directions wear radiant crowns and robes of celestial brocade as they expound wondrous teachings, flanked by guardian immortals while divine blossoms and rare fragrances fill the air, their radiance outshining the sun. How then can beings of the lower realms, burdened by karmic accumulations over lifetimes, be absolved of their transgressions?"

The Heavenly Lord replied: "Your compassionate plea for sentient beings holds great merit. As karmic retribution differs for each being, only through sincere supplication to the Heavenly Honored Ones can liberation be attained. Now I shall impart to you the sacred names recorded on the silver slips and jade registers within the Golden Florescence Palace. Devoted men and women should diligently venerate these names, offering incense and lamps, visualizing the divine presence, striking the celestial bell twelve times according to ritual, swallowing the elixir thrice, regulating breath while reciting scriptures."

The scripture subsequently records a cultivation mantra (a spell to be chanted with specific pronunciation) and the sacred names of one hundred Heavenly Honored Ones from the Nine Qi Heavens of the East. Through reverent incense offerings, fasting, and veneration of these names, beings may escape the sufferings of the Ninefold Netherworld, eradicate immeasurable karmic obstructions, and attain auspicious conditions.

(Notes: 1. "Desire Realm" refers to one of Daoism's Three Realms, denoting the hierarchical world where beings still bound by desires reside. 2. "Swallowing the elixir" describes a longevity practice involving the ingestion of saliva. 3. "Immeasurable Cavern Chapters" indicates scriptural passages with special efficacy in Daoist texts.)

  至心信禮十極妙光天尊   至心信禮八威結成天尊   至心信禮玄通道會天尊   至心信禮高虚道運天尊   至心信禮高光運明天尊   至心信禮三華西靈天尊   至心信禮靜定長存天尊   至心信禮至景靈曜天尊   至心信禮玄道四梵天尊   至心信禮真道照度天尊   至心信禮真寳寂然天尊   至心信禮聖真東華天尊   至心信禮戒生洞玄天尊   至心信禮靜定光一天尊   至心信禮四天高尊天尊   至心信禮慧虚運明天尊   至心信禮南極洞明天尊   至心信禮重玄保存天尊   至心信禮三華聖真天尊   至心信禮三天太上天尊   至心信禮智功開朗天尊   至心信禮金晃凝寂天尊   至心信禮素通妙樂天尊   至心信禮混成太一天尊   至心信禮空洞无礙天尊   至心信禮仙道混成天尊   至心信禮衆妙方便天尊   至心信禮妙運明化天尊   至心信禮四明逍遥天尊   至心信禮方便正智天尊   至心信禮至道智明天尊   至心信禮金經凝寂天尊   至心信禮朱苑妙彩天尊   至心信禮玄悟三天天尊   至心信禮感妙開光天尊   至心信禮紫真南明天尊   至心信禮法王虚皇天尊   至心信禮寳經上元天尊   至心信禮上元運明天尊   至心信禮地皇八素天尊   至心信禮因果福慶天尊   至心信禮北真妙光天尊
Interpretation

This scripture enumerates the sacred titles of thirty-two celestial venerables (Tianzun) in Daoism, recited by devotees during reverent worship. Each divine name embodies specific Daoist philosophical concepts and theological attributes:

"Zhixin xinli" means "to worship with utmost sincerity and devotion." Each venerable's title represents distinct divine qualities, such as:

  • "Shiji miaoguang" (Tenfold Sublime Radiance) signifies the wondrous light illuminating all directions
  • "Bawei jiecheng" (Eightfold Majestic Formation) symbolizes the coalescence of virtuous power from all quarters
  • "Xuantong daohui" (Mystic Convergence of the Dao) denotes the gathering that penetrates the profound Way
  • "Gaoxu daoyun" (Operation of the Dao in Lofty Emptiness) describes the Dao's movement in supreme void
  • "Sanhua xiling" (Three Blossoms of Western Numen) refers to the manifestation of Jing-Qi-Shen (essence, vital energy, and spirit) in western sacred realms

These appellations reflect Daoist cosmological perspectives on the origin of the universe and stages of spiritual cultivation, including:

1. Luminous qualities (sublime radiance, numinous brilliance, illuminating light)

2. Spatial orientations (Eastern Splendor, Southern Pole, Western Numen)

3. Characteristics of the Dao (primal unity, empty vastness, unimpeded flow)

4. Wisdom attainments (right knowledge, enlightened wisdom, mystic realization)

5. Cultivation levels (tranquil stability, preserved integrity, concentrated serenity)

Through chanting these sacred names, devotees express veneration for Daoist supreme truth while seeking celestial blessings. This nomenclature system demonstrates the richness of Daoist theology and cosmology, personifying the abstract Dao-principle as divine manifestations with distinct attributes.

  至心信禮朱暎玄元天尊   至心信禮空寂洞智天尊   至心信禮太玄太極天尊   至心信禮高真救生天尊   至心信禮明應皇運天尊   至心信禮方便善巧天尊   至心信禮妙容化成天尊   至心信禮運明真廣天尊   至心信禮衆妙真空天尊   至心信禮高運廣明天尊   至心信禮洞性空寂天尊   至心信禮玄元長樂天尊   至心信禮朱聖妙尊天尊   至心信禮南極真空天尊   至心信禮上聖因縁天尊   至心信禮玄運至道天尊   至心信禮桃康玉光天尊   至心信禮拔苦慈恩天尊   至心信禮皓暎虚无天尊   至心信禮妙果丹素天尊   至心信禮朱輪妙尊天尊   至心信禮中黄運道天尊   至心信禮妙光金彩天尊   至心信禮化道妙運天尊   至心信禮靈官西明天尊   至心信禮地皇太一天尊   至心信禮靜定三業天尊   至心信禮真道化明天尊   至心信禮方便保護天尊   至心信禮上品天皇天尊   至心信禮仙德洞元天尊   至心信禮上清真元天尊   至心信禮内暎三光天尊   至心信禮妙光丹格天尊   至心信禮仙道光度天尊   至心信禮定慧上品天尊   至心信禮遍明慧道天尊   至心信禮真一最勝天尊   至心信禮聖真无窮天尊   至心信禮拔苦青華天尊   至心信禮法王寳海天尊   至心信禮文明高運天尊
Interpretation

This scripture enumerates the sacred titles of thirty-two Celestial Worthies (Tianzun), the highest deities in Daoist belief. Each line begins with "zhixin xinli" (至心信礼), meaning "to worship with utmost sincerity." Every Celestial Worthy's title reflects their unique divine attributes and functions:

1. Zhu Ying Xuan Yuan Tianzun: The Celestial Worthy of Mysterious Origin Illumined by Crimson Radiance

2. Kong Ji Dong Zhi Tianzun: The Celestial Worthy of Profound Wisdom in Empty Silence

3. Tai Xuan Tai Ji Tianzun: The Celestial Worthy of Supreme Mystery and Ultimate Polarity (Taiji)

4. Gao Zhen Jiu Sheng Tianzun: The Celestial Worthy of Sublime Truth and Life Salvation

5. Ming Ying Huang Yun Tianzun: The Celestial Worthy of Manifest Response and Imperial Fortune

6. Fang Bian Shan Qiao Tianzun: The Celestial Worthy of Skillful Means and Adaptable Salvation

(Some Celestial Worthies' titles omitted here)

31. Ba Ku Qing Hua Tianzun: The Celestial Worthy Who Extracts Suffering with Azure Splendor

32. Fa Wang Bao Hai Tianzun: The Celestial Worthy of Dharma-Kingship Like a Jeweled Ocean

Each Celestial Worthy governs specific domains: some preside over wisdom (like Dong Zhi Tianzun), some specialize in delivering beings from suffering (like Ba Ku Ci'en Tianzun), some symbolize cosmic origins (like Tai Xuan Tai Ji Tianzun), while others protect spiritual cultivation (like Ding Hui Shang Pin Tianzun). Through sincere veneration of these deities, Daoist practitioners may receive corresponding blessings and spiritual empowerment.

  至心信禮慧道明空天尊   至心信禮空相衆善天尊   至心信禮因果克成天尊   至心信禮真應運明天尊   至心信禮變見最勝天尊   至心信禮凝寂金宫天尊   至心信禮空寂洞元天尊   至心信禮青元妙力天尊   至心信禮无相普潤天尊   至心信禮法會青華天尊   至心信禮九光洞真天尊   至心信禮妙彩金格天尊   至心信禮瓊瑶法海天尊   至心信禮玄響運明天尊   至心信禮无滯上生天尊   至心信禮神清上洞天尊 清明何童天帝君曰若諸男女至心歸命歸 依頓首金華宫中銀簡玉録東方无極世界 一百天尊慈悲應號稱揚讚歎吟詠洞章思 神念真燒香然燈清齋靜室乞得滅除自无 始劫至于今生存亡二世積行所犯言无信 實詭誑之罪爲東方十直之神天帝使者司 命司録著名罪録上奏天曹歷世纏結不能 解脫罪繫清明何童天東方无極世界靈官 之府玉匱之函下考酆都狂風飄浪地獄歷 劫辛苦无由解脫衆罪備履望返何期如此 之罪咸乞滅除五苦長解形魂安寧衣食自 然道遥適樂上賴天尊大慈之惠下奬男女 歸依之誠 清明何童天金華宫中銀簡玉録南方三氣 天中无極世界一百天尊慈悲應號燒香齋 靜禮拜願念削落明真九幽玉匱長夜之函 普使人天離苦解脫消塵沙罪累獲无量善
Interpretation

This scripture records Daoist devotees paying reverent homage to thirty-two Celestial Worthies (high-ranking deities in Daoism), and recounts the repentance ritual taught by the Celestial Lord of Qingming Hetong (the sovereign deity of the Eastern Heavens). Here's a plain explanation:

[Section on Homage to the Thirty-Two Celestial Worthies]

This passage enumerates thirty-two Celestial Worthies with distinct honorific names, each representing specific divine powers and virtues. For example:

  • Celestial Worthy of Wisdom Illuminating Emptiness (one who comprehends ultimate truth)
  • Celestial Worthy of Virtues Manifest in Void (one who reveals all benevolent deeds)
  • Celestial Worthy of Fulfilling Karmic Retribution (one who actualizes cause and effect)

...(remaining honorific titles all embody different sacred attributes)

[Teachings of the Celestial Lord of Qingming Hetong]

The Celestial Lord instructs devotees: If male and female followers can sincerely:

1. Prostrate before the Celestial Worthies in the Golden Radiance Palace (celestial abode)

2. Recite the names of one hundred Celestial Worthies from the Eastern Limitless Realm (Daoist Eastern Heaven)

3. Burn incense, light lamps in purified fasting chambers while silently chanting true scriptures

They may beseech absolution for all accumulated transgressions including:

  • Sins of deception through broken promises
  • Wrongdoings recorded by the Ten Rectifying Officers of the East (deities monitoring human morality)
  • Offenses causing deceased souls to suffer in Fengdu's hells (Daoist underworld)

[Key Elements of the Repentance Ritual]

Devotees must:

  • Recite sacred names of one hundred Celestial Worthies from the Three Qi Heaven of the South
  • Maintain fasting purity and reverent worship
  • Pray for the opening of the Jade Archive of Nine Darknesses (underworld records of sins)

To obtain:

1. Elimination of sins numerous as dust and sand

2. Acquisition of immeasurable virtuous merit

3. Present-life prosperity and soul tranquility

4. Ultimate attainment of carefree bliss

Note: This passage exemplifies the Daoist practice of "absolution through name recitation," where devout chanting of Celestial Worthy names combined with zhaijiao (purification rituals) generates merit for dispelling calamities.

縁   至心信禮内音上品天尊   至心信禮金殿妙寂天尊   至心信禮解脫常暎天尊   至心信禮三清法王天尊   至心信禮貴生玉真天尊   至心信禮西明高聖天尊   至心信禮金玄妙彩天尊   至心信禮寳都法寳天尊   至心信禮地皇青真天尊   至心信禮妙果丹果天尊   至心信禮戒生正真天尊   至心信禮空仙法海天尊   至心信禮紫清光遍天尊   至心信禮應帝高勝天尊   至心信禮朱輿妙彩天尊   至心信禮威光淨明天尊   至心信禮大道化明天尊   至心信禮化寂應感天尊   至心信禮真空德應天尊   至心信禮真明太虚天尊   至心信禮真品普潤天尊   至心信禮丹紫妙首天尊   至心信禮瓊暎法海天尊   至心信禮光照仙靈天尊   至心信禮玄應度明天尊   至心信禮飛仙上靈天尊   至心信禮一切常度天尊   至心信禮中品真覺天尊   至心信禮長樂方便天尊   至心信禮九光大洞天尊   至心信禮青華法舟天尊   至心信禮度死聖王天尊   至心信禮明光玉光天尊   至心信禮妙光正法天尊   至心信禮寳焕法海天尊   至心信禮銀臺妙樂天尊   至心信禮中元玉京天尊   至心信禮慈恩真品天尊   至心信禮真君天皇天尊   至心信禮妙音无量天尊   至心信禮无量遍度天尊
Interpretation

This scripture is a liturgical text used by Daoist devotees for paying homage to thirty-two Celestial Worthies (Tianzun). Each invocation begins with "zhixin xinli," meaning "with utmost sincerity, we believe and bow in reverence."

These Celestial Worthies bear distinct titles and functions, such as:

  • Celestial Worthy of Sublime Inner Harmonics (governing mystical musical principles)
  • Celestial Worthy of Golden Hall's Profound Stillness (symbolizing solemn tranquility)
  • Celestial Worthy of Ever-Shining Liberation (aiding liberation from afflictions)
  • Celestial Worthy of the Three Pure Ones' Dharma Kings (representing the Sanqing supreme deities)
  • Celestial Worthy of Jade Purity Who Values Life (cherishing life's true meaning)
  • Celestial Worthy of Western Radiance's Lofty Sage (illuminating sage of the West)
  • Celestial Worthy of Golden Mystery's Wondrous Light (golden mystical radiance)
  • Celestial Worthy of Jeweled Metropolis' Dharma Treasures (guardian of precious ritual implements)

Other titles reflect core Daoist concepts: "Earthly Sovereign" represents the deity of the earth, "Cinnabar Fruit" symbolizes the achievement of Golden Elixir (Jindan) cultivation, "Dharma Ocean" metaphorically compares Buddhist teachings to the sea, "Great Void" (Taixu) denotes the cosmic origin, and "Jade Capital" (Yujing) refers to the celestial emperor's abode.

These deities preside over various salvific functions including: delivering the deceased (e.g., Celestial Worthy of Death-Transcending Sage King), illuminating wisdom (e.g., Celestial Worthy of True Awakening), granting longevity (e.g., Celestial Worthy of Eternal Joy's Skillful Means), and radiating universal light (e.g., Celestial Worthy of Ninefold Light's Great Cavern). Through chanting these sacred names, devotees seek corresponding blessings and spiritual empowerment.

(Note: In Daoist rituals, such name recitations are typically accompanied by specific mudras (hand seals), visualization techniques, and breathing methods, though this text primarily presents the verbal invocation component.)

  至心信禮金都凝寂天尊   至心信禮神通萬變天尊   至心信禮保存太玄天尊   至心信禮法燈常有天尊   至心信禮大運明玄天尊   至心信禮聖王虚遊天尊   至心信禮紫清上洞天尊   至心信禮沖虚三乘天尊   至心信禮神變道運天尊   至心信禮空浮上品天尊   至心信禮明行玄元天尊   至心信禮常一中千天尊   至心信禮丹紫二觀天尊   至心信禮延筭元慧天尊   至心信禮萬廣運明天尊   至心信禮上運行明天尊   至心信禮神通五音天尊   至心信禮虚道玄運天尊   至心信禮方便長樂天尊   至心信禮大道廣明天尊   至心信禮上清大洞天尊   至心信禮北真七暎天尊   至心信禮空觀玄會天尊   至心信禮常運照道天尊   至心信禮青華太上天尊   至心信禮自然化靈天尊   至心信禮聖真南極天尊   至心信禮上運廣道天尊   至心信禮東華護命天尊   至心信禮救生法雲天尊   至心信禮高勝諸法天尊   至心信禮丹元玄都天尊   至心信禮玉寳金都天尊   至心信禮方便隨分天尊   至心信禮真道行成天尊   至心信禮三光神精天尊   至心信禮妙樂空洞天尊   至心信禮遷昇隨方天尊   至心信禮金根聖真天尊   至心信禮中仙主録天尊   至心信禮湛寂玄應天尊   至心信禮明廣上道天尊
Interpretation

This scripture enumerates the honorific titles of thirty-two Tianzun (Celestial Venerables, the highest deities in Daoism), which are sacred appellations chanted by devotees during pious worship. Each invocation begins with "zhixin xinli" (至心信礼), meaning "with utmost sincerity, believe and venerate."

Each Tianzun embodies distinct divine attributes and functions, such as:

  • Jindu Ningji Tianzun (Golden Metropolis of Serene Quiescence): symbolizing the supreme state of eternal tranquility
  • Shentong Wanbian Tianzun (Divine Power of Infinite Transformations): possessing boundless supernatural abilities
  • Baocun Taixuan Tianzun (Guardian of the Great Mysteries): protector of Daoism's profound truths
  • Fadeng Changyou Tianzun (Eternal Lamp of Dharma): representing the inextinguishable light of wisdom
  • Ziqing Shangdong Tianzun (Purple Clarity of the Upper Caverns): deity representing the highest celestial realm of Ziqing
  • Donghua Huming Tianzun (Eastern Florescence Guardian of Life): divine protector of vitality from the Eastern Immortal Realms
  • Jiusheng Fayun Tianzun (Life-Saving Dharma Cloud): who delivers sentient beings with compassionate dharma rain

The term "three vehicles" (san cheng 三乘) refers to the three stages of Daoist cultivation, while "Xuandu" (玄都) and "Jindu" (金都) designate celestial paradises. "Danzi" (丹紫) symbolizes the supreme state of Golden Elixir (jindan 金丹) refinement. These Tianzun titles collectively represent guardian deities of various celestial realms and cultivation states within the Daoist cosmological framework.

When devotees chant these sacred names, they simultaneously pay homage to the Daoist pantheon and seek divine protection through nominal invocation. Each title contains specific cultivation symbolism and carries the power of spiritual blessing.

  至心信禮玉寳金闕天尊   至心信禮常虚運明天尊   至心信禮北真玉晨天尊   至心信禮大光南極天尊   至心信禮照迷仙靈天尊   至心信禮照明道運天尊   至心信禮慧玄運明天尊   至心信禮廣照道運天尊   至心信禮鬱羅法王天尊   至心信禮玄通真一天尊   至心信禮洞真北元天尊   至心信禮西明八威天尊   至心信禮高尊朱尊天尊   至心信禮普慈妙虚天尊   至心信禮聖王无量天尊   至心信禮道運慧文天尊   至心信禮玄運慧明天尊 清明何童天帝君曰若諸男女至心歸命歸 依頓首金華宫中銀簡玉録南方无極世界 一百天尊慈悲應號稱揚讚歎吟詠洞章思 神念真燒香然燈清齋靜室乞得滅除自无 始劫至于今生存亡二世積行所犯嫉妬他 人有才勝己之罪爲南方十直之神太一八 神使者司命司録著名罪録上奏 天曹歷世纏結不能解脫罪繫 清明何童天南方无極世界靈官之府玉匱 之函下考酆都煻煨地獄歷劫辛苦无由解 脫衆罪備履望返何期如此之罪咸乞滅除 五苦長解形魂安寧衣食自然逍遥適樂上 賴 天尊大慈之惠下奬男女歸依之誠 太上洞玄靈寳三十二天天尊應號經第十二卷         卷十三至二十一原缺 太上洞玄靈寳三十二天天尊應號經
Interpretation

This scripture primarily records the honorific titles of thirty-two Celestial Worthies (the highest deities in Daoism) and explains how devotees may seek relief from calamities through reverent worship. Here is a simplified interpretation:

The first section enumerates the titles of the thirty-two Celestial Worthies, including:

1. Jade Treasure Golden Palace Celestial Worthy (the Supreme One dwelling in a golden palace)

2. Constant Void Radiance Celestial Worthy (the One who abides in emptiness and illuminates all)

3. Northern Truth Jade Dawn Celestial Worthy (the Divine Light of Northern Truth)

...(Other titles similarly reflect each Celestial Worthy's distinct divine functions and attributes)

The second section contains teachings from the Pure Brightness Hetian Heavenly Emperor (the sovereign deity of the Southern Heavens):

  • Devotees are instructed to sincerely take refuge and, within the Golden Flower Palace (a celestial abode), pray to the hundred Celestial Worthies of the Southern Limitless Realm (the Daoist Southern Heaven) using silver tablets and jade registers (sacred documents).
  • Specific cultivation methods include: reciting the names of the Celestial Worthies, chanting scriptures, quiet meditation, burning incense and lighting lamps, fasting, and purifying one's chamber.
  • One may beseech the removal of accumulated karmic transgressions from past and present lives, particularly sins such as envy of others' talents. These transgressions are recorded by the Ten Rectifying Spirits (ten divine enforcers) of the South and the emissaries of the Great Unity Deity (the Supreme Divinity), who report them to the Celestial Court (the heavenly judicial system).

The third section describes the severe consequences of karmic transgressions:

  • Offenders suffer prolonged torment in the Fengdu Hell (the Blazing Inferno of Fengdu), finding it difficult to attain liberation.
  • Through devout prayer, one may receive the compassion of the Celestial Worthies, dispelling the Five Sufferings (five types of anguish), thereby attaining peace of spirit and a life of abundance and ease.

A concluding note states:

This is the twelfth scroll of the Supreme Lingbao Scripture of the Thirty-Two Celestial Worthies' Responsive Titles. Scrolls thirteen through twenty-one have been lost.

(Note: This scripture reflects the Daoist practice of seeking blessings and dispelling misfortunes through worship of the Celestial Worthies, emphasizing repentance for transgressions and the importance of sincere devotion. The titles of the Celestial Worthies often relate to their divine roles or attributes, such as "Illuminator of the Lost" referring to one who guides the confused, or "Universal Compassion of Subtle Emptiness" denoting boundless mercy.)

第二十二卷(自二十三卷至/二十六卷原缺)母九 无思江由天明真之臺紫元寳藏瓊簡玄文 西方七炁天中无極世界一百天尊慈悲應 號燒香齋靜禮拜願念削落明真九幽玉匱 長夜之函普使人天離苦解脫消恒沙罪累 獲塵數善縁   至心信禮丹天洞空天尊   至心信禮洞空三元天尊   至心信禮金藏妙靈天尊   至心信禮洞元仙元天尊   至心信禮華苑妙尊天尊   至心信禮紫清无等天尊   至心信禮運明神空天尊   至心信禮瓊瑶法成天尊   至心信禮淨明無礙天尊   至心信禮玄響道音天尊   至心信禮金彩高尊天尊   至心信禮太元性一天尊   至心信禮金變妙用天尊   至心信禮隨方開度天尊   至心信禮仙解光暎天尊   至心信禮太真无等天尊   至心信禮无礙太極天尊   至心信禮真空大梵天尊   至心信禮真光上昇天尊   至心信禮上元運明天尊   至心信禮延壽青華天尊   至心信禮法海寳真天尊   至心信禮光焕法海天尊   至心信禮太清大洞天尊   至心信禮天運智明天尊   至心信禮真品天帝天尊   至心信禮王道廣明天尊   至心信禮明智本通天尊   至心信禮高智道運天尊   至心信禮萬會真元天尊   至心信禮混成真觀天尊   至心信禮慧德自然天尊   至心信禮瓊質法海天尊
Interpretation

This scripture expounds upon the compassionate names of the Hundred Celestial Worthies (the highest deities in Daoism) residing in the Western Heaven of Seven Qi (a celestial realm composed of seven primordial energies in Daoist cosmology). It describes how the sacred "Platform of Luminous Truth in the River of Thoughtlessness" (a Daoist paradise) contains treasured purple-origin treasures and jade-slip mystical texts (esoteric Daoist scriptures).

Cultivation Method: Devotees should with utmost sincerity practice incense burning, purification rituals (practices for purifying body and mind), reverent bowing, and recitation of these Celestial Worthy names while making vows. Through these practices, one may petition to erase karmic transgressions recorded in the "Jade Repository of Nine Netherworlds" (the underworld's record book) and the "Casket of Eternal Night" (symbolizing suffering in darkness). Such practice helps sentient beings escape suffering, eliminate sins as numerous as Ganges River sands, and obtain immeasurable virtuous affinities.

The scripture then enumerates thirty-two Celestial Worthy titles, each prefaced with "With utmost sincere faith we worship," indicating the most devout reverence. These honorifics manifest different divine attributes, such as:

  • Celestial Worthy of Cinnabar Heaven's Empty Cavern (deity governing the void of crimson celestial realms)
  • Celestial Worthy of Golden Treasury's Marvelous Numen (mystical divinity possessing golden treasures)
  • Celestial Worthy of Purple Purity Beyond Compare (incomparable divinity of violet purity)
  • Celestial Worthy of Longevity's Azure Radiance (bestower of longevity through cyan luminosity)
  • Celestial Worthy of Dharma-Ocean's Precious Truth (guardian of orthodox teachings vast as the sea)

Each Celestial Worthy fulfills distinct sacred functions, collectively protecting practitioners by bestowing wisdom, liberation, and blessings. Through sincere worship, devotees establish spiritual connections with these deities to receive their divine empowerment.

  至心信禮洞明丹天天尊   至心信禮朱極寳輪天尊   至心信禮高文道運天尊   至心信禮一乘玄景天尊   至心信禮開通保生天尊   至心信禮洞玄救生天尊   至心信禮丹元平等天尊   至心信禮廣訓普慈天尊   至心信禮運明玄光天尊   至心信禮自然真品天尊   至心信禮无相澄湛天尊   至心信禮道行洞空天尊   至心信禮北元真玄天尊   至心信禮素相妙樂天尊   至心信禮无滯太混天尊   至心信禮萬悟洞元天尊   至心信禮八會北真天尊   至心信禮開光應妙天尊   至心信禮太清慈恩天尊   至心信禮機感上靈天尊   至心信禮七道真尊天尊   至心信禮洞視西靈天尊   至心信禮海空戒生天尊   至心信禮方便延年天尊   至心信禮運明妙道天尊   至心信禮高運明皇天尊   至心信禮運明高仙天尊   至心信禮方便開光天尊   至心信禮妙彩慈慧天尊   至心信禮慈力拔苦天尊   至心信禮法被无極天尊   至心信禮昇玄天通天尊   至心信禮化周无垠天尊   至心信禮明道玄運天尊   至心信禮寳明神通天尊   至心信禮應明神運天尊   至心信禮高尊衆善天尊   至心信禮真空妙觀天尊   至心信禮玄光上宫天尊   至心信禮常闡一乘天尊   至心信禮太一太元天尊   至心信禮上靈善慧天尊
Interpretation

This scripture enumerates the titles of thirty-two Celestial Worthy deities (Tianshi, Daoist venerated divinities), each name reflecting distinct divine attributes and salvific functions. Here's a plain explanation:

All these Celestial Worthy titles follow the fixed format of "utmost sincere devotion + divine name," where "utmost sincere devotion" means "taking refuge and paying homage with the most devout heart." Each deity's title consists of two parts: the first two characters denote the honorific, while the latter two indicate their sacred function or characteristic. For example:

"Dongming Dantian" (Illuminating Cinnabar Heaven) refers to wisdom that penetrates celestial realms; "Zhuji Baolun" (Vermilion Pole Treasure Wheel) symbolizes the luminous Dharma wheel like the crimson sun; "Gaowen Daoyun" (Exalted Pattern Dao's Movement) represents the supreme operation of Daoist teachings; "Yicheng Xuanjing" (Single Vehicle Mysterious Vista) indicates the unique sublime state; "Kaiguang Yingmiao" (Radiant Opening Responsive Wonder) signifies awakening wisdom to perceive profound mysteries.

These Celestial Worthies have specialized roles: some oversee salvation (e.g., Savior Worthy, Suffering-Reliever Worthy), some symbolize the operation of Daoist teachings (e.g., Dao-Movement Worthy, Mysterious-Movement Worthy), others represent luminous wisdom (e.g., Mysterious-Light Worthy, Illumined-Sovereign Worthy), while some embody compassionate salvation (e.g., Universal-Compassion Worthy, Compassion-Wisdom Worthy).

Key technical terms deserve special attention:

  • "Dongxuan" (Penetrating Mystery) denotes comprehending profound truths
  • "Wuxiang" (Formless) indicates transcendence beyond appearances
  • "Taiqing" (Great Purity) refers to one of the Three Pure Realms (Sanqing)
  • "Bahui" (Eight Convergences) marks the eight nodal points of Qi circulation
  • "Yicheng" (Single Vehicle) represents the supreme Daoist teaching

These Celestial Worthy titles actually form a complete cultivation system: from awakening wisdom (radiant opening), realizing truth (true emptiness), attaining spiritual powers (treasure illumination), to universal salvation (compassionate power), transcending rebirth cycles (limitless), and ultimately achieving union with the Dao (ascending mystery).

(Note: As the original text uses repetitive phrasing, this vernacular interpretation adopts categorized presentation, maintaining approximately 1.5 times the original length)

  至心信禮洞元仙門天尊   至心信禮響音神運天尊   至心信禮結成流鈴天尊   至心信禮威顔法寳天尊   至心信禮生成妙光天尊   至心信禮迷解普慈天尊   至心信禮玄元朱暎天尊   至心信禮弘法玄應天尊   至心信禮丹元肅然天尊   至心信禮丹紫大有天尊   至心信禮應見慧能天尊   至心信禮慧眼仙靈天尊   至心信禮丹紫羽蓋天尊   至心信禮妙彩玄靈天尊   至心信禮太空真偘天尊   至心信禮玄宰北元天尊   至心信禮妙樂丹輿天尊   至心信禮保命開靈天尊   至心信禮神行運明天尊   至心信禮紫清開淨天尊   至心信禮丹紫祕宻天尊   至心信禮法藏遍明天尊   至心信禮運明慧應天尊   至心信禮玄應有觀天尊   至心信禮法化妙應天尊 无思江由天帝君吿真人曰若有百姓男子 女人至心信禮明真之臺紫元寳藏瓊簡玄 文西方无極世界一百天尊慈悲應號稱揚 讚歎吟詠洞章思神念真燒香然燈清齋靜 室乞得滅除无始劫來生生世世家門宗室 九親姻族内外縁羅積行所犯誘取經書而 傳弟子之罪爲西方十直之神太一司命司 録定其罪目上聞天曹歷世纏結不能解脫 罪繫无思江由天西方无極世界靈官之府 玉匱之函下考太玄女青下元考正曹歷劫
Interpretation

This scripture primarily documents the devout worship of thirty-two Celestial Worthies (high-ranking Daoist deities) by practitioners, along with admonitions from the Thought-Free Jiangyou Heavenly Emperor Lord (a Daoist immortal) to cultivators.

The text first enumerates the sacred titles of these thirty-two Celestial Worthies, each possessing specific divine functions and virtues, such as:

  • Dongyuan Celestial Gate Worthy (guardian of immortal pathways)
  • Resonant Sound Divine Movement Worthy (sovereign of sacred sounds and spiritual power)
  • Forged Bell Current Worthy (keeper of ritual bells and magical instruments)
  • Majestic Countenance Dharma Treasure Worthy (protector of sacred iconography and teachings)

These Celestial Worthies respectively govern various aspects of Daoist spiritual power, requiring devotees to offer worship with utmost sincerity.

The latter portion presents crucial warnings from the Thought-Free Jiangyou Heavenly Emperor Lord to practitioners: If ordinary devotees sincerely worship the Purple Origin Treasure Trove and Jade Slip Mystic Texts (precious Daoist scriptures) at the "Platform of Luminous Truth" (sacred cultivation site), while reciting the names of one hundred Celestial Worthies from the Western Limitless Realm through practices like scripture chanting, meditation, incense offering, lamp lighting, and fasting, they may seek absolution for karmic transgressions accumulated by their ancestral lineage since beginningless kalpas.

Specific mention is made of common offenses:

1. Unauthorized transmission of scriptures to disciples

2. Interfamilial karmic entanglements through marital relations

These transgressions are recorded by the Ten Rectifying Deities (divine lawkeepers) of the West, examined by deities like the Great Unity Life-Register and the Record-Keeper, then reported to the Celestial Ministry (heavenly judicial system). If unresolved, these karmic burdens become archived in the Jade Repository of Thought-Free Jiangyou Heaven, ultimately judged by the Mysterious Azure Maiden (celestial scribe) and the Lower Primordial Investigation Bureau (underworld judiciary).

辛苦无由解脫往返循環无有限極死而復 生幽而復明受諸苦報備歷異形如此之罪 咸乞解免九幽罷對三惡道空長夜光明逍 遥適樂上荷天尊大哀之惠下奬男女歸命 之誠 无思江由天明真之臺紫元寳藏瓊簡玄文 北方五炁天中无極世界一百天尊慈悲應 號燒香齋靜禮拜願念削落明真九幽玉匱 長夜之函普使人天離苦解脫消恒沙罪累 獲塵數善縁   至心信禮普德聖真天尊   至心信禮三天真一天尊   至心信禮丹景上洞天尊   至心信禮玄元妙寳天尊   至心信禮玄行運明天尊   至心信禮北真聖真天尊   至心信禮真空德重天尊   至心信禮神通照朗天尊   至心信禮寂然大道天尊   至心信禮天真度苦天尊   至心信禮寳成无等天尊   至心信禮真道得度天尊   至心信禮梵明天真天尊   至心信禮神運明玄天尊   至心信禮感應虚无天尊   至心信禮八景法王天尊   至心信禮金暎妙素天尊   至心信禮隨心應會天尊   至心信禮慈應拔苦天尊   至心信禮元光紫清天尊   至心信禮真通德化天尊   至心信禮寳德難思天尊   至心信禮慧德寂然天尊   至心信禮度真道要天尊   至心信禮妙金法相天尊   至心信禮金真妙絢天尊   至心信禮廣運真行天尊   至心信禮常一空性天尊
Interpretation

This scripture passage primarily describes sentient beings suffering in the cycle of rebirth, beseeching the Celestial Worthies for deliverance, and enumerates the sacred names of thirty-two Celestial Worthies.

The text first depicts beings endlessly enduring suffering within the wheel of life and death—dying only to be reborn again, oscillating between the netherworld and realms of light, bearing various karmic retributions while assuming different forms. People pray for liberation from these sinful burdens, hoping the Nine Nether Hells (the Daoist underworld) might cease judgment, that the Three Evil Paths (hell realms, hungry ghosts, and animal rebirths) may be emptied, allowing eternal darkness to be illuminated anew, thereby attaining carefree joy.

The scripture mentions sacred Daoist locations and texts such as the "Tower of Luminous Truth in the Thoughtless Jiangyou Heaven" and the "Purple Origin Treasury's Jade Slips of Mysterious Writings," as well as the Wuji World within the Northern Heaven of Five Qi (the celestial realm formed by the Five Phases' energies). Through rituals like incense burning, fasting, mental stillness, and reverent prostrations, devotees earnestly implore the Celestial Worthies to eradicate karmic obstacles, liberating both humans and celestial beings from suffering.

Subsequently, the text lists the sacred names of thirty-two Celestial Worthies, each prefaced with "zhixin xinli" (worship with utmost sincerity). These Celestial Worthies embody distinct divine powers and virtues—for instance, "Universal Virtue Sage-True Celestial Worthy" represents all-encompassing salvation, "Heavenly Truth Deliverer-from-Suffering Celestial Worthy" specializes in relieving anguish, while "Compassionate Responder Who Extracts from Suffering Celestial Worthy" embodies merciful relief. Through devout veneration of these deities, corresponding blessings and liberation may be obtained.

This passage reflects the Daoist cultivation method of seeking deliverance through venerating Celestial Worthies and repenting transgressions, demonstrating the tradition's profound emphasis on rescuing beings from suffering and guiding them toward liberation.

  至心信禮太元玄真天尊   至心信禮金都妙尊天尊   至心信禮昇玄真明天尊   至心信禮妙寳變生天尊   至心信禮道運神照天尊   至心信禮慧道玄泰天尊   至心信禮運明本應天尊   至心信禮法王度人天尊   至心信禮空歌結成天尊   至心信禮至微應明天尊   至心信禮神通開照天尊   至心信禮大洞无色天尊   至心信禮戒生上宰天尊   至心信禮大道延壽天尊   至心信禮至達明虚天尊   至心信禮照明皇極天尊   至心信禮真訓朗清天尊   至心信禮運明神靜天尊   至心信禮長樂太元天尊   至心信禮高運明飛天尊   至心信禮玄常解脫天尊   至心信禮太平寂然天尊   至心信禮妙彩玉清天尊   至心信禮慧玄運明天尊   至心信禮金開妙尊天尊   至心信禮虚極上虚天尊   至心信禮天姿妙行天尊   至心信禮救生洞寂天尊   至心信禮空觀上宫天尊   至心信禮周感三界天尊   至心信禮金威凝相天尊   至心信禮普開慈光天尊   至心信禮神慧普朗天尊   至心信禮真珠妙果天尊   至心信禮道開高化天尊   至心信禮空中萬變天尊   至心信禮合成高尊天尊   至心信禮太玄梵行天尊   至心信禮道勝天運天尊   至心信禮五運通明天尊   至心信禮左玄紫清天尊   至心信禮妙觀仙城天尊
Interpretation

This scripture enumerates the honorific titles of thirty-two Celestial Worthies (Tianzun), forming a liturgical text recited by Daoist devotees during reverent worship. Each Tianzun name embodies distinct qualities of Daoist practice and divine power:

1. Supreme Origin Mysterious Truth Tianzun (symbolizing the profound truth of cosmic origin)

2. Golden Capital Wondrous Sovereign Tianzun (mystical ruler of the golden celestial city)

3. Ascending Mystery Illuminated Truth Tianzun (elevating arcane principles to awaken to true Dao)

4. Wondrous Treasure Transformational Birth Tianzun (marvelous treasure manifesting all creation)

5. Dao's Operation Divine Radiance Tianzun (universal Dao in motion with divine light)

The subsequent titles include: Wisdom Dao Mysterious Peace, Movement Illumination Fundamental Response, Dharma King Deliverer of Beings, Empty Songs Form Completion, Ultimate Subtlety Responsive Light, Divine Penetration Opening Illumination, Great Cavern Beyond Form, Precepts Birth Highest Minister, Great Dao Prolonging Life, Ultimate Attainment Bright Emptiness, Illuminating Imperial Pivot, True Teaching Clear Luminance, Movement Illumination Divine Serenity, Eternal Joy Supreme Origin, Lofty Movement Bright Flight, Mysterious Constancy Liberation, Great Peace Quiescence, Jade Purity Wondrous Splendor, Wisdom Mystery Moving Light, Golden Opening Wondrous Sovereign, Emptiness Ultimate Supreme Void, Celestial Grace Wondrous Practice, Life-Saving Cavern Silence, Empty Vision Upper Palace, Universally Sensing Three Realms, Golden Might Coagulated Form, Universal Opening Compassion Light, Divine Wisdom Universal Clarity, True Pearl Marvelous Fruit, Dao Opening Lofty Transformation, Empty Space Myriad Changes, Harmonious Formation Exalted Sovereign, Supreme Mystery Sacred Practice, Dao Victorious Celestial Movement, Five Movements Penetrating Light, Left Mystery Purple Purity, Wondrous Observation Immortal City.

These epithets reflect Daoism's multifaceted understanding of the Dao: some represent wisdom (Wisdom Dao, Divine Wisdom), salvation (Life-Saving, Deliverer), luminosity (Illuminating, Compassion Light), mystery (Mysterious Truth, Wondrous Treasure), and emptiness (Empty Songs, Ultimate Void). Through chanting these sacred names, devotees express veneration for the Dao's manifold manifestations while seeking blessings corresponding to each Tianzun's virtuous power (De).

  至心信禮洞玄海空天尊   至心信禮常昇上道天尊   至心信禮靜樂銀皇天尊   至心信禮普洞光明天尊   至心信禮德充最勝天尊   至心信禮太眞丹天天尊   至心信禮行功德滿天尊   至心信禮苦魂眞救天尊   至心信禮玄通八朗天尊   至心信禮玉眞貴生天尊   至心信禮眞運明清天尊   至心信禮南極法王天尊   至心信禮素焕妙樂天尊   至
Interpretation

This passage enumerates fourteen Celestial Venerable (Tiansun) titles recorded in the Daoist scripture Taishang Dongxuan Lingbao Sanshi'er Tiansun Yinghao Jing (Most High Numinous Treasure Scripture of Thirty-Two Celestial Venerables' Responsive Appellations). These Celestial Venerables represent high-ranking deities with specialized divine functions in Daoist belief:

1. Dongxuan Haikong Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of the Cavernous Mystery and Oceanic Void) - governs profound Daoist methods and realms of emptiness

2. Changsheng Shangdao Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of Constant Ascension in the Supreme Dao) - guides practitioners to elevate their spiritual cultivation

3. Jingle Yinhuang Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of Serene Joy and Silvery Radiance) - presides over tranquility and bliss

4. Pudong Guangming Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of Universal Illumination) - radiates wisdom's light throughout existence

5. Dechong Zuisheng Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of Supreme Virtue's Fullness) - embodies unsurpassed virtuous power (De)

6. Taizhen Dantian Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of Great Authenticity and Cinnabar Heaven) - oversees alchemical practice (Neidan) and spiritual refinement

7. Xinggong Deman Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of Merit Completion Through Practice) - represents the perfection of cultivation achievements

8. Kuhun Zhenjiu Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of True Salvation for Suffering Souls) - delivers sentient beings from distress

9. Xuantong Balang Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of Mysterious Penetration of Eight Directions) - comprehends the profound principles of all quarters

10. Yuzhen Guisheng Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of Jade Authenticity Valuing Life) - honors the true meaning of vital existence

11. Zhenyun Mingqing Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of Clear Dao Operation) - governs the luminous movement of the Dao's workings

12. Nanji Fawang Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of Southern Pole's Dharma Sovereign) - supreme dharma lord of the southern realm

13. Suhuan Miaole Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of Pure Radiance and Subtle Bliss) - manifests wondrous spiritual joy

14. Jincai Suyu Tiansun (Celestial Venerable of Golden Splendor and Pure Jade) - symbolizes the immaculate Dao body

These sacred appellations are recited by Daoist devotees during worship, with the phrase "zhixin xinli" (utmost sincere devotion) preceding each name to express wholehearted reverence. Through chanting these Celestial Venerable titles, practitioners may receive corresponding divine blessings and protection. The complete scripture records thirty-two Celestial Venerables' sacred names, with this excerpt presenting partial contents from its twenty-second chapter.

心信禮金彩素玉天尊 太上洞玄靈三十二天天尊應號經第二十二卷

Source text: Kanripo 漢籍リポジトリ(KR5e0023); Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0 · Report an error / feedback