《上清靈寶大法(一)》Vol. 49

Interpretation

In the dark realm of the netherworld, bitter souls and stagnant spirits, their forms defiled, are trapped within the gates beneath the springs. Without the efficacy of upright celestial and earthly qi for refinement (purifying and liberating the dead through rites and methods), how could they transcend and transform?

Therefore, Taishang (a title of reverence for the supreme deity), moved by compassion, transmitted the literary method of refining by flowing fire (liuhuo yelian zhi wenfa) and the method of bathing in yellow flowers (huanghua guanmu zhi famen). These enable practitioners to unite with primordial qi (yuanshi zhi qi), transform it into the mysterious primal qi of Yin and Yang (yinyang xuanyuan zhi qi), and gather the qi of the three Dantian (the upper, middle, and lower energy centers). Then, drawing on the three qi of the south, they cause fire qi to rise and fall, separate the clear from the turbid, sever the ghost gate, and wash away filth, so that the inner and outer self become bright and pure and the whole body radiates luster. Only then can one enter the Way of Wuwei (non-action).

Thus, when summoning the hun and po souls, one first uses the talismanic writings of the Big Dipper to gather the souls and remove the gate of death. Afterward, one uses the talismans of the Southern Pole to examine the registers of names, so that the dead may be reborn. From this we know that the Southern Star and the Big Dipper can refine the souls and recast the form, allowing the dead to regain their bodies and roam through the void. This is the supreme Daoist method of the Lingbao (Numinous Treasure) tradition.

Sanguang Lianhua Baotan (Altar of the Three Lights for Refining and Transformation)

On the nine tablets on the left, write the nine Dadong Shenghua talismans (Talismans of Great Cavern Generation and Transformation).

On the twelve tablets in the center, write the talismans of the twelve Great Generals of Hunyuan (Primal Origin).

On the nine tablets on the right, write the nine Taidong Shenghua talismans (Talismans of Supreme Cavern Generation and Transformation).

Nanchang Liandu Baotan (Nanchang Altar of Refinement and Liberation)

Jiusheng Shengshi Baotan (Altar for Nine Refinements of the Living Corpse)

On the nine tablets on the left, write the nine Fire talismans; on the nine tablets on the right, write the nine Water talismans.

Lingbao Shengxian Liandu Tan (Lingbao Altar for Refinement and Ascension to Immortality)

Methods for Setting Up the Feisheng Liandu Tan (Altar for Refinement and Ascension)

The master says: When setting up the Feisheng Liandu Tan, bind a gate standing beside the water pool used for refinement. Write five characters above the gate and affix the talisman to it, so that the souls pass through the Water Gate. Also set up a gate beside the fire pool, standing at the edge of the pool, with five characters written above it in the same way, and use talismans to guide the souls through the Fire Gate.

Water Gate Talisman

The talisman on the right is written on blue silk with yellow ink and bears the words "Zi Wen Bei Qi." After souls pass through this gate and receive refinement, one may summon the spirit-generals of this office to appear and respond. They are Xiang Zhizhuang of the Water Refining Pool of the Nanchang Upper Palace, courtesy name Zhishi, standing six chi two cun tall, wearing a purple silk robe embroidered with green, holding an axe, and standing beside the Water Gate. The summoning incantation says:

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Interpretation

Sanhuo fu (Fire Gate Talisman)

The Three Heavens (the realms of Shangqing, Yuqing, and Taiqing) issue this order: All you great spirits, listen respectfully to your commands. Open the gates and close the barriers, deliver the hun and po souls, and let the spirits of the dead cross over the water gate.

Yuqing (the Jade Clarity heaven and the revered deities who dwell there) issues this strict decree: Refine and deliver the dark souls at once. The divine functionaries shall act in accordance with the talisman and shall not linger.

Hurry, hurry, as the Lord on High commands!

Fire Gate Talisman

The talisman on the right is made of red silk and written in black with wu-script characters. Face south to receive the qi of the south. When performing the rite by which the spirits of the dead pass through the barrier gate, you may summon this bureau's divine functionaries.

When this bureau's divine functionary appears, his form is vast and fierce. When he returns to his original body, he can restore life. He is the Heavenly Functionary guarding the Fire Refining Pool, named Lu Cunzhong, with the courtesy name Chen Chen. He stands six chi two cun tall, wears a yellow headcloth and a red embroidered robe, holds a sword, and stands before the Fire Gate. The incantation to summon him is:

"The Great Emperor has commanded. Envoy, hear the order: deliver the dead souls and pass them through the Fire Gate. Open the southern dike gate and lead the souls forward. Break the chains and throw open the doors. The Jade Clarity has already issued its decree, so who dares to defy it deliberately? The divine functionaries act in accordance with the talisman, so the spirits may rise and be delivered, and no one may act recklessly. Hurry, hurry, as the Lord on High commands!"

Methods for Setting Up the Water Pool and Fire Pool

The Master said: When setting up a water pool, choose a ren day or a gui day, and have craftsmen build it from stone. The inside of the pool is square and the outside is round. At the center of the pool floor, carve the Kan trigram, which symbolizes water. The pool measures five chi across, measured square and round. Carve talismanic script inside the pool, erect a placard above it titled "Liugu Pool" (Liúgǔ Zhǎo), and place it in the northeast corner.

When setting up a fire pool, choose a bing day or a ding day, and have craftsmen carve it from stone. The inside of the pool is square and the outside is round. At the center of the pool floor, carve the Li trigram, which symbolizes fire. The pool measures three chi across, measured square and round. Erect a placard above it titled "Smelting Pool" (Yelian Chi), carve talismanic script inside the pool, and place it in the southeast corner. Hang banners over both pools to await the arrival of the souls being guided. The ritual master may arrange them according to the liturgy.

Liugu Pool

The meaning of the water pool talisman is: "By the command of the Primordial Heavenly Venerable, the myriad primal qi endure forever."

Smelting Pool

The meaning of the fire pool talisman is: "The dead soul receives refinement, is transformed, and becomes an immortal."

Water Pool Banner Talisman

The talisman's content includes: "The three true essences of the Supreme One unite and mingle qi," "Heavenly River irrigation," "Nine souls refine the form," "Moon crystal yellow flower," "Three spirits flowing clouds," "The shen soul and true po pass to and fro in Yujing," "Nine dragons draw the dead souls across, so that they leave the mundane world and ascend to Shangqing," and "Circulate and cross Taiyin."

The water pool banner on the right has a body of yellow silk, and the talisman described above is written on it. At the top of the banner, write in cinnabar the words "Lord of the Eastern Well of the Heavenly River." On the two hands of the banner, write the following four lines of incantation:

"The Jade Maiden pours the five fragrances, the Holy Mother celebrates ten thousand years; the three realms rejoice together, and I bow in homage to the Heavenly Venerable."

Fire Pool Banner Talisman

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Interpretation

(Santian Taishang: above, it corresponds to the Realm of the Perfected Terrace, its radiance blazing over Mount Hua. The Taiji (Supreme Ultimate) golden bell rings, and purple qi (zi qi) flows back and forth.)

(On the Dantian Heaven, the hun souls are ferried across, and luminous spirits surge forward. The stars within shine clearly, and the shen returns to the Great Dao.)

(In response to the turning of fate, the sun.)

The above is the talismanic script painted on the Fire Pool Banner. The banner body is made of red silk, and the script is written across its middle. The top of the banner bears the inscription "Zhuling Huofu Jun" (the deity who governs the southern Fire Palace). On either side of the banner, four lines of incantation are written separately. Their purpose is to express the transformation of the yuanshen (primordial spirit) and the viscera through the fire qi, so that the deceased souls attain xianhua (transformation into immortals), the perfected assemble, and the response is awakened.

The Metal and Wood Banners

The Master says: the jade talismans on the Metal and Wood Banners represent, respectively, the ancestral qi of Mugong (the venerable male immortal of the east) and the yuanhua (primordial flower) of Jinmu (the Queen Mother of the West). When Heaven and Earth first divided and the yin and yang qi interacted, the myriad things were transformed and generated. Therefore, the shenhun (spirit-soul) and jingpo (corporeal soul) of the deceased can likewise merge through these banners, transform, and form a fetus that takes shape. Mugong uses the blue banner, and Jinmu uses the yellow banner. The two banners are placed in the heavens to the east and west of the Dihuan (the Celestial Emperor's residence).

Talisman of Dongdong Hua Mugong Fusang Taizhen Yuanyang Dadi (Great Emperor of Primordial Yang, Mugong of the Eastern Hua, Fusang Taizhen): The talisman of Mugong of the east and the Great Emperor of Primordial Yang, Taizhen of Fusang.

Talisman of Xiji Guitai Yuzhen Jinmu Xuanjing Shenghou (Sacred Empress, Jinmu of the Turtle Terrace of the Western Pole, Jade Perfected, Mysterious Crystal): The talisman of Jinmu of the west and the Sacred Empress, Xuanjing of the Turtle Terrace at the Western Pole.

The Jade Talismans of the Water Pool for Refining Transformation

Incantation:

The decree of Yuanshi Tianzun (Celestial Worthy of Original Beginning): refine the substance of the fetus and return it to its original truth. Cleanse the body with yellow flower, transforming the deceased souls into immortals. Let the souls ascend to the Dongjing (Eastern Well) and roam freely in the Shangqing (Highest Clarity) Heaven. Hasten to follow the edict of the Celestial Emperor Yuanshi without delay.

Proclamation:

The Water Emperor of Taiyin, the Five Qi Numinous Lords, the Water-Refining Youths, and the Lady of the Eastern Well, together descend to refine and transform the deceased souls. They wash clean their hundred bones, nine orifices, five viscera, and myriad spirits, purging the defilement of the body so that they enter the Dao and become perfected. Now, in accordance with this command, the numinous lords respectfully attend and obey: refine the deceased souls of such-and-such, cleansing their bodies with yellow flower so that they transform into immortals.

Announced on such-and-such day, such-and-such month, such-and-such year of the Taisui (Grand Year-Star).

The officiant, Mr./Ms. (surname), a minister holding the Dharma position, receives the Dharma decree and respectfully obeys and executes it.

The Jade Talismans of the Fire Pool for Refining Transformation

Incantation:

The True King's fan qi refines the form and substance with the light of the jade pupil. Through great refining in the flowing fire, the deceased souls generate spirit within the realm of the elixir. The souls ascend to the Zhufu (Vermilion Palace, the southern Fire Palace), where the body is tempered by the qi of the Three Radiances. Hasten to follow the edict of the Celestial Emperor Yuanshi without delay.

Proclamation:

The Lord of the South, the Essence of Red Qi, the Envoy Yinghuo, the Generals Bingding, and the Vermilion Bird Flame Spirit, brilliant and blazing, are the essence of sunlight, and also the power by which the Five Phases create and the myriad things sprout. The Celestial Emperor has issued a decree, and all envoys should heed command, summon the deceased souls, refine their true forms, and cause them to ascend to the heavens……

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Interpretation

The Daoist priest mounts the altar and enters the formless realm to perform the Liandu (refinement) rite for the souls of certain deceased persons, so that their hun and po may be refined through the Yumou (Jade Pupil) and transformed into immortals.

In the year, month, day, and hour of the Taisui (Grand Duke of the Year), an edict is issued.

The Fawei (ritual office) of the officiant, surnamed ___, has received the decree and carries it out as commanded.

On the refinement altar, the rite is established. The divine generals are summoned, and the fulu (talismans and registers) are burned.

The proclamation reads:

We respectfully summon the water-pool and fire-marsh divine generals of the Nanchang Liandu Si (Refinement Office), together with the Jade Maidens and Golden Youths. We also summon the Gongcao (Registrar) generals and the officials of the Huanglu (Yellow Register) Court, to descend together to the altar so that all the departed souls may ascend without obstruction. Everything above shall be carried out according to this command.

In the year, month, day, and hour of the Taisui, an edict is issued.

The Fawei of the officiant, surnamed ___, has received the decree and carries it out as commanded.

These three talismans are written in cinnabar on yellow paper and sealed inside a kelou (the envelope used to enclose talismans).

Gaoshang Dantian Fu Ming (Talismanic Command of the Supreme Cinnabar Heaven)

The proclamation reads:

Dantian Zhao Zhen Fu Xi (Talismanic Summons of the Perfected of the Cinnabar Heaven): Hasten to summon the fire officials of the Cinnabar Heaven and the flying immortal spirit-officers who refine souls, together with the divine generals whose dragon fire speeds onward and whose winds and clouds race along. Come quickly to hear the command.

Once this talismanic command is announced, it must be obeyed.

The talisman is to be written here, in front of the altar.

The true talisman serves the imperial decree. Dragon fire races like a courier through the vermilion heavens, circling among the cloud-halls and crossing the celestial equator. Crimson divine fire soars, smoke streams and sparks scatter, and the light, reflected back from the void, illumines the netherworld. Myriads of fire officials obey the command and descend to the Jade Heaven. The awe-inspiring Great Lord of Cangwei chants the Xiaomo Pian (Chapter for Dispelling Demons). The gods descend and open the dim night-terrace, so that the wandering souls may rise and be promoted. The boundless Great Brahma realm performs its mysterious transformation, nourishing heaven and earth, refining the dead in the long night so that their hun and jing are reunited and their vitality restored. Everything above shall be carried out as commanded.

In the year, month, day, and hour of the Taisui, an edict is issued at the Yuan of Liandu (Refinement Altar).

The Fawei of the officiant, surnamed ___, has received the decree and carries it out as commanded.

The Lord Kehansi Zhangren Zhenjun (True Lord, Elder of the Kehan Office) serves as the True Master, and governs the Supreme Ministers of the Nine Heavens' Protective Fate and Divine Empyrean.

The talismans above are written in cinnabar on yellow paper, and the proclamation is written in ink. When summoning the spirits, read the proclamation aloud, then cast the talismans into the fire pool to burn. With the left hand form the Pu Zhao Wanshen Yin (Seal for the Universal Summoning of the Myriad Spirits), and flick the fingers toward the direction of the Dantian Heaven to issue the command. In this way the relevant officials and generals will descend with the talismans.

Talisman for Summoning the Refinement Officials (already seen in the Jiangzhen Zhaoling Men, Gate of Descending the Perfected and Summoning Spirits)

Dongxuan and Yuanming: the three qi unite to form the perfected. The five phases turn in their cycle, and the three heavens' decrees are carried out. Summoned swiftly, they arrive swiftly; let all the myriad spirits obey.

Talisman for Summoning the Flying Spirit Kings of the Ten Directions

Great Brahma passes through a myriad kalpas, and the stars and the primordial power of the Yuanshi appear. The unsurpassed transformation body pauses at the pass and carries out its teaching.

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Interpretation

(Wuliang Duren, the scripture of Limitless Salvation of Humanity) (Decree to summon the Flying Celestial Officials who receive petitions and the Divine Kings to descend swiftly)

Spell for Summoning the Divine Kings

The Primordial Supreme One, Left Scribe, the ancestral spirit-branch of the Dongxuan (Dongxuan) lineage, rides the Qi-breath and comes on flying smoke. His bearing is solemn and harmonious, and the immortal messengers move swiftly. In a single instant he reaches the farthest places of the ten directions and gathers and governs the myriad heavens.

"Ā-mǐ-nà-yì-pó-bù-tán-yuǎn-luò-nà-gù-jué-lún-bèi-lián." Acting under the heavenly mandate, and at the command issued by the Jade Dawn (Yuchen, an honorific Daoist deity), we invite the spirits to attend the altar, proclaim the teachings, and ferry living beings across to salvation. Everything shall be carried out in accordance with the statutes and regulations.

Spell for Dispatch

"Ā-mǐ-nà-yì-bèi-lián-pó-bù-yuǎn-luò-tán-yán-jué-lún-nà-gù." Bearing the memorial, rush forth swiftly, like clouds and like mist. The Dragon summons the precious ring and corrects the errors in the bamboo-slip registers. Wrong characters must be amended, omitted characters must be marked, and the superior officials in charge of documents must not be allowed to dispatch them.

Talisman for Summoning the Earthly Merit Officer

The spell says:

The Merit Officer among the Jade Scribes of the Mysterious Bureau governs the affairs of the Jade Clarity and reports to the Three Heavens (the three celestial realms in Daoist cosmology). By decree of the Supreme Emperor, may you descend swiftly.

Talisman for Gathering Souls

The spell says:

By the command of the Highest Clarity talisman, summon the wandering souls to come to the altar, receive the merit, and be quickly delivered to rebirth in the realms of the blessed. Act swiftly in accordance with the statutes!

Talisman for Summoning and Gathering the Souls for Refining and Deliverance

Talisman for Presenting the Memorial of Refining and Deliverance

When the above talismans are presented in the memorial, they are placed in the main incense burner and burned.

Talisman for Urging the Gathering of Souls for Deliverance

"The Three Terraces (astral deities) shine brightly. The Sovereign Lord hastens to summon."

"The pure Qi of the Three Heavens gathers the hun and po souls."

"Summon the spirits and call back the souls. Sovereign Lord, hasten to gather them."

"Pursue and gather the souls. Sovereign Lord, hasten to appear."

"Nine Heavens Qutan (here a divine name or incantatory term). Sovereign Lord, hasten to deliver."

"Primordial Qi, the Yang crystal. Sovereign Lord, hasten to deliver."

"Pure Qi of the Three Heavens. Sovereign Lord, hasten to deliver."

"May the spirit-soul be opened to deliverance and the body enter the light."

Formula of the Shenxiao Refined Qi

Nine Waters Talismans

First Path, from the East

The spell says:

The brahmic Qi of the True Water of Great Yin arises naturally, pours down upon and refines the departed souls, so that they rise like the essence within water. The Universal Refining Great Spirit refines the hun and po souls and restores them to their true forms. Act swiftly in accordance with the decree of the Supreme Emperor.

Second Path, from the South

The spell says:

The Great Emperor of the Water Palace, the Northern Lord Spirit, universally refines the sinful souls and washes and purifies their true forms. The primordial Qi descends and causes the departed souls to ascend to the realms of the immortals. Act swiftly in accordance with the decree of the Supreme Emperor.

Third Path, from the West

The spell says:

The Supreme Lord of the Water Emperor of the One Celestial Operation, the Sovereign Lord, harmonizes with and follows the Seven Qi, causing them to converge…

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Interpretation

The Five Phases (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) turn in sequence, flowing like running water. The Qi of the Water Spirit refines the hun (ethereal soul) and po (corporeal soul), causing them to rise universally to the Celestial Court.

By decree of the Supreme Deity, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

North Four

Incantation:

Shuiguan Shenjun (the Lord of Water, the deity who governs the realm of water) universally delivers suffering souls in the Celestial Court, dissolving their karmic transgressions and grievances so that they may ascend to the court of the perfected immortals.

The Shijing Zhenshui (the marvelous true water, as named in Daoism) flows without cease, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

By decree of the Supreme Deity, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

Southeast Five

Incantation:

Xuhuang (the August Sovereign) sends down his edict to forever deliver ghosts. Through the power of water he universally delivers all beings, so that each may receive new life.

He pardons the lingering souls so that all may behold the Compassionate Venerable, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

By decree of the Supreme Deity, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

Kun Six

Incantation:

The Lingbao fate-mandate universally delivers the dead in the netherworld, restores the departed souls to life, and releases them from the Northern Gate of the netherworld.

The Water Emperor has issued his decree that they all rise universally to the Celestial Court, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

By decree of the Supreme Deity, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

Hai Seven

Incantation:

Heavenly deities manifest, water deities manifest. The water spirits swiftly answer the command and refine the souls with water.

Once the souls have been refined by water, they ascend to the Celestial Court, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

By decree of the Supreme Deity, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

Gen Eight

Incantation:

The primordial spirit of the water marsh and the spirits of the water mountain hold water to refine the po and drive the water qi to refine the hun.

Once the souls have been refined, they are permitted to ascend to the Celestial Court, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

By decree of the Supreme Deity, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

Center Nine

Incantation:

The Great Deities of the Nine Heavens and the Lady Sovereign of the Rivers and Channels (the goddess who governs river waters) gather the water qi to refine the po and hold the water qi to refine the hun.

Refining the hun and refining the po, they are caused to be reborn in the Nangong (the place, in Daoist teaching, of ascent to immortality and of receiving life), swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

By decree of the Supreme Deity, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

Nine Fire Talisman

East One

Incantation:

The True King issues a command, ordering the Nine Heavens to refine the hun and spirit with fire. The qi of the Celestial One nourishes all beings.

The sun's radiance shines everywhere, causing the yin po to change its form, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

By decree of the Supreme Deity, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

South Two

Incantation:

The Nine Heavens' True Sage and the Fire Emperor of the Primal Palace issue a decree ordering ghosts to leave the netherworld.

The Heavenly August True Person descends swiftly and manifests his numinous power, guiding the living corpses and the sheng po (spirits or life-forms associated with rebirth) toward good fortune, so that all affairs proceed smoothly.

Swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

By decree of the Supreme Deity, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

West Three

Incantation:

The Sovereign of Fate, the Holy True One, manifests by the Supreme's command. The Three Sovereigns possess the Way and refine the po and hun with fire.

The dead are delivered to the Nangong, and their names are erased in the Northern Capital (the capital of the netherworld, in Daoist teaching). The Three Qi (the three kinds of qi that constitute heaven, earth, and all things) begin to descend, washing and refining the hun and po so that they give rise to spirit illumination.

Swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

By decree of the Supreme Deity, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

North Four

Incantation:

The Supreme Mysterious Emperor of the Nine Heavens turns the power of the imperial capital, refining the hun with the Yangming qi so that it changes form like sunlight shining.

The qi of the four directions descends and disperses, delivering the spirits of the dead and sending them up to the Divine Court, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

By decree of the Supreme Deity, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

Xun Five

Incantation: The original text is incomplete at this point.

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Interpretation

Born of the Flowing Fire in Southern Jambudvipa (a term in Buddhist and Daoist literature for the human world), the Jade-Eyed Venerable Spirit commands the might of the eight directions and sees clearly into both the visible and the hidden realms.

When the hun (ethereal soul) and po (corporeal soul) are refined together, the dead can return to the true Dao. When the Five Tones nurture all things without exception, the stagnant spirits can attain longevity.

Swiftly, swiftly, as the decree of the Supreme Emperor (Shangdi) commands.

Kun Six.

The incantation says:

By the true mandate of Imperial Heaven, passing through the Nine Heavens, the primal spirit (yuanshen) shines brightly. The mysterious transformation of the Upper Dao nurtures all things, and the harmonious breath of Yang reaches far and wide.

Refine the hun and po so that they unite with the Dao and return to truth. Through the Six Qi, refine the consciousness everywhere so that it ascends.

Swiftly, swiftly, as the decree of the Supreme Emperor commands.

Hai Seven.

The incantation says:

By the mandate of the Nine Heavens, refine the hun and po throughout, so that the yin corpse (the physical remains of the dead in the underworld) is delivered upward, freed from the Northern Confinement (the place of imprisonment in the underworld).

The Seven Qi generate and transform, and the dark, stagnant spirits are all lifted upward.

Swiftly, swiftly, as the decree of the Supreme Emperor commands.

Gen Eight.

The incantation says:

By the mandate of the Numinous Treasure, universally gather in the spirits. The True Dao nurtures the myriad things and rescues and ferries across boundless multitudes of beings.

Fengdu (the underworld in Daoist belief) opens its gates so that all beings of the Six Paths may arrive. The Eight Qi refine the spirits everywhere so that they are returned to life.

Swiftly, swiftly, as the decree of the Supreme Emperor commands.

Zhong Nine.

Zhong Nine.

The incantation says:

The Nine Heavens govern the awesome spirits of the eight directions. They inhale and exhale the essential Qi, and the numinous primal spirit descends its spiritual breath to deliver sinful souls everywhere.

The Northern Capital (the capital of the underworld) pardons them all together, so that wandering spirits of the dead are settled. The True King observes and illuminates, so that the consciousness of the souls may rise.

When the Nine Qi unite and generate, the hun and po can ascend and attain perfection.

Swiftly, swiftly, as the decree of the Supreme Emperor commands.

The above nine Water Talismans are written on blue plain silk, and the nine Fire Talismans are written on yellow plain silk.

Construct the Water Pool Talisment, called the "Water Refining Talisman for Returning to Life."

The divine heavens and spirit names listed in the annotations include: the Heaven of Clear Subtlety, the Heaven of Yuyu, and the Great Red Heaven; the Jade Emperor and the Purple Tenuity Great Emperor; the Central Primal Earth Official and the Lower Primal Water Official; the Great Emperor of Fengdu and the Great Emperor of Fusang; and the Seven Primal Stars of the Northern Dipper. The annotations also list the directions, yin and yang, the delivery of wandering souls, ascent into the water pool, heaven, earth and the four quarters, the mandates of the Supreme Emperor, and the water refining diagrams and talismanic content.

True immortals, swiftly, swiftly, as the statutes command.

The incantation says:

The Mysterious Water Spirit is the essential Qi of the Water phases Ren and Gui. It refines the channels with water so that yin and yang harmonize with one another.

Obeying the Great Dao of the present moment, it lifts wandering souls upward to enter Shangqing (the high heavenly realm in Daoist belief).

Swiftly, swiftly, as the decree of the Supreme Emperor commands.

Construct the Fire Pool Talisman, called the "Fire Refining Talisman for Ascending to Immortality."

The fire spirits listed in the annotations include the Fire Virtue Sovereign, the Fire Order General, the Fire Order Youths, the True Lords of the Five Stars, and the Old Man of the Nine Qi.

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Interpretation

(Five Directions: east, south, west, north, and center. Five Emperors: the Heavenly Thearchs of the five directions. Perfected of the Five Peaks (wuyue zhenren): immortal perfected who govern the Five Sacred Peaks. Heavenly Fire, Earth Fire, and Yinghuo Star Fire: the fire-powers represented by the heavens, the earth, and the planet Yinghuo.)

(The Most High issues the talismanic decree. Nanchang Great Spirit presides over the Fire Palace refinement and deliverance, so that the drowning and sunken are universally delivered.)

(Beings may be reborn as they wish. Once the talismanic command of the Supreme Thearch arrives, it must be carried out at once.)

Incantation:

Let the Fire Command descend into the Fire Pool. Blazing majesty refines and transforms the form and substance, making it a True Person. The five viscera are complete, the channels are whole, and the hun and shen souls transform and ascend. Serve the Great Dao and attain the fruit of immortality.

Swiftly, swiftly, as the Supreme Thearch commands!

Talisman for Transforming the Water Pool (Bian Shui Chi Fu)

Incantation:

The Supreme Mystery Qi nurtures and transforms, and the images of the eight directions descend together. The secret names of the Five Elders correspond to the names of the Great Yin. The Northern Dipper's jade pivot turns, summoning the spirits so that the True Person appears. The Great Yin's essential light sends down numinous qi and refines the hun and shen souls. Heavenly sweet dew pours down and washes the body, returning it to purity and rectitude.

Swiftly, swiftly, as the Northern Emperor of the Great Yin commands!

Talisman for Descending the True Water (Jiang Zhen Shui Fu)

(The essence of the True Water of the Most High, the primordial qi (genben yuanqi) of origin, flows through the Heavenly Primal Qi and nourishes all things widely. The springs and treasure pools of heaven turn into clear, open marshes, vast and boundless.)

(Refining the body and the hun and shen souls, transforming the primal qi, so that beings are universally delivered. The Celestial Marsh and Heavenly Pool gather the hun and po souls and lead them together into the Celestial Court. The wishes of all beings return to auspicious and upright Dao.)

The talisman on the right is written on green paper, with cinnabar, in a zi-shaped script. Blow three breaths toward the north.

Talisman for Transforming the Fire Pool (Bian Huo Chi Fu)

Incantation:

The Celestial Lord of the South and the Spirit of the Fire Palace send down numinous qi, causing the flames to transform and spread through the abodes of the gods. The departed souls, refined by fire in their form and substance, roam freely in the realm of Great Clarity. Golden light shines forth, and the jade pupils change their appearance.

Swiftly, swiftly, as the Great Emperor of the Southern Pole, Eternal Life, commands!

Talisman for Descending the True Fire (Jiang Zhen Huo Fu)

(The Directors of Life and the Directors of Records, the gods of the Great Hall of the Nanchang Upper Palace, preside over the transformation of qi and ensure that beings are universally delivered. Swiftly refine the hun and shen souls.)

(The Great Dao of the bing and ding fires descends, and the Yinghuo Star God arrives at Nanchang. The True Fire of Nanchang gathers and subdues them, and they may not linger. The decree of the Fire Pool is proclaimed, and the departed souls are delivered through fire.)

(By decree, gather the wandering ghosts. The ghosts are refined into True Persons. The Heavenly Fire descends by decree, refines the yin souls, and gathers the ghosts.)

The talisman on the right is written on red paper, with cinnabar, in a wu-shaped script. Blow three breaths toward the south.

Talisman of the Twelve River Sources (Shi'er He Yuan Fu)

(One qi returns to Heaven, two qi return to Man. The union of yin and yang qi, the two qi join and merge.)

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Interpretation

(Talismans: the Talisman of Clear Heaven and Tranquil Earth, the Talisman Uniting Humanity in the Four Directions, the Yellow Flower Talisman for Cleansing the Form, and the Talisman of Clear Heaven and Broad Earth for Refining the Deceased Souls.)

(Talismans: Severing the Earthly Gate, Adding the Primal Cavern, Uniting Ghost and Human in Form, and the Jade Calendar Incantation Talisman.)

The above talismans are written in black ink on black paper, with the ink drawn into the shape of the zi character, and they gather the Qi of the North. The incantation reads:

Yin Qi, once refined, reveals its visions, and countless immortal perfected appear. Washing the form with the Water of Ren and Gui, the Moon Soul (a symbol of the yin aspect of the hun and po souls) is delivered beyond.

The Great Dao proclaims the Yuan Qi, and Heaven and Earth become one body. Water transforms into the Qi of the Upper Primordial, which delivers the hun and po souls so that they proceed to the Southern Mound.

Quickly, quickly, as...

By command of Taiyin Beidi (the deity who governs the netherworld).

Talisman for Hurling Fire Ten Thousand Li

The above talisman is written in red paper with cinnabar, forming the yi character, and it gathers the Qi of the South. The incantation reads:

Harmonize the Qi of yin and yang, cleanse the deceased souls, and let golden radiance shine clear. The Four Images (the four forces that constitute all things in Heaven and Earth) form a canopy, and with the Fire of Bing and Ding they refine the spirit.

The Sun Soul shines everywhere and widely delivers the deceased souls. Wondrous visions appear and transform, so that the souls unite with the Dao and attain perfection.

Further, refine upward with the Golden Fluid (a symbol of refining the essence), so that a person is transformed into an immortal perfected. Quickly, quickly, as...

By command of Yuanshi Shangdi.

Talisman for Uniting the Water Refining

The above talisman is written in blue paper with cinnabar, and it gathers the vital Qi of the East. The incantation reads:

The Supreme True Water, following the numbers of the Five Phases, unites with the hun and po souls and refines them together. It lifts them upward, dispels sins and calamities, releases them from suffering, and brings them to ascend to the true realm.

Heaven's Sovereign has issued a command to refine all things universally, so that the multitude of souls ascend and are delivered together. Quickly, quickly, as...

By command of the Supreme Emperor.

Talisman for Uniting the Fire Refining

The above talisman is written in red paper with cinnabar, and it gathers the flourishing Qi of the South. The incantation reads:

Heaven's Sovereign issues his decree, and the sunlight shines. Sun and moon revolve like the armillary sphere (an ancient instrument for observing the heavens) and illuminate the eight directions.

Refine together with fire, so that the deceased souls are reborn within the Jade Pupil (a symbol of sacred light). Quickly, quickly, as commanded by the statute.

Talisman for Correct Water Refining

The incantation reads:

Hao (a character symbolizing the vast depth of water) holds immeasurable power, like a divine dragon dwelling in the abyss. Employing the flourishing Qi of the East, it washes the hun and po souls within the netherworld.

It causes the form and bearing of the souls to appear anew, and the Jade Maiden of Yuanhe (a goddess who governs the Qi of primal harmony) employs the essential Qi of Taixuan to refine their spirits. Quickly, quickly, as commanded by the statute.

Talisman for Correct Fire Refining

The incantation reads:

Dao Li Chan You, Po Ni Jiu (names of deities or secret words in the incantation whose precise meanings are difficult to determine), let the power of fire circulate. Refine the form with fire, so that it reveals the true appearance of the Jade Pupil.

Ascend into the Hall of Fortune and enter the Palace of Dongyang. Quickly, quickly, as commanded by the statute.

Talisman for Summoning the True Fire of the Sun Soul

The incantation reads:

The Sun Soul emits vermilion radiance that shines upon the concealed green blossoms. The glow of the clouds turns about, the Red Youth appears, and the mysterious flames move like swift wind. Quickly, quickly, as commanded by the statute.

Talisman for Summoning the True Water of the Moon Soul

The incantation reads:

The Moon Soul emerges with a serene fragrance and luster, faintly illuminating the boundless void. A numinous energy like orchids rises richly, and beautiful branches and leaves take shape.

Pure golden essence shines clear and bright, causing the sacred countenance to appear upon the Jade Terrace. Quickly, quickly, as commanded by the statute.

This passage lists the talismans and incantations used in the ritual of refining the deceased souls. Drawing on the Qi of the North, South, and East, and on images of water, fire, the Sun Soul, and the Moon Soul, they express the ritual's aim of washing and refining the hun and po souls, removing sins and calamities, and lifting the deceased souls upward.

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Interpretation

Water Lineage General Talisman (Shuǐ Xì Zhǔ Jiāng Jūn Fú): The script of this talisman is based on the decrees of the Three Lords of Primal Qi of the Jade Clarity Mysterious Origin (Yùqīng Xuányuán Sān Qì Jūn). It marks the Left and Right Yin-Yang (yīn yáng) and the names of the stars of the Northern Dipper. The Northern Kui Mysterious Model Lord and the Northern Kui Mysterious Darkness Lord receive the mandate to deliver and transform beings. The Jade Hare appears in visible form, and water qi (qì) swirls and turns. Yin essence (jīng) joins with the Cinnabar Radiance, and the light becomes full and complete. The spirits Gāobēn, Jiélín, and Grandmother Yuánjūn gather at the center, harmonizing and distributing primordial qi. Even in the eternal night of Yōudū (the Netherworld, the realm of darkness), one can perceive a compassionate divine countenance. The Jade Sweet Dew and Golden Saliva (the fluid of the immortals, like celestial dew) flow out and moisten the Kǎn Palace (the direction and palace corresponding to water).

Fire Lineage General Talisman: The script of this talisman honors the decrees of the Jade Clarity Jade Emperor and the Northern Pole. On the left stands the Lord of the Sun, and on the right the Lord of the Moon, with star spirits such as Tiānfǔ and Tiānxiàng arranged alongside them. The stars Tiāntóng, Tiānshū, Tiānjī, and Tiānliáng receive their measure. The Great Emperor of Eternal Life of the Southern Pole and the Lord of the Southern Pole Who Bestows Life preside over the granting of longevity and the bestowing of life. The Golden Crow (the divine bird within the sun) descends and releases its radiant light. Yellow qi and yang essence converge, the sunlight is round and bright, and the center of heaven stands upright. Harmonious qi pervades and unites all things and nourishes living beings. The fire dragon gallops, and blazing light fills the Lí Palace (the direction and palace corresponding to fire).

Sun Fire Refining Talisman (Tàiyáng Huǒ Liàn Fú): The Three Radiances (sun, moon, and stars, the bright images of light) spread their luminance and summon the true spirits, causing the dark caverns to open and grow clear. They drive away the chimeras (demons of the mountains and forests), so that the Nine Qi stand upright and yin and yang condense spiritual energy. The brilliance is like two jade discs joined together. The image of Heaven (qiánxiàng) revolves, and a mysterious light shines upon the path. The myriad qi return to their correct course and together attain the realm of the immortals.

Yin Water Refining Talisman (Tàiyīn Shuǐ Liàn Fú): The Three Qi Venerable Lords nourish the embryonic breath and condense the bodily form. The qi of Taiyin is purified, and the spirits of the Northern Dipper and the qi of ghosts revolve. By refining the form, the original essence (jīng) is restored to its source. The Nine Qi converge, and the qi of the Dragon-Han era is clear, fresh, and abundant, causing what has withered to sprout anew. Wandering souls are opened to deliverance, and life that endures for a long time is nourished so that it may continue.

Sun Palace Fire Dragon True Talisman (Rì Gōng Huǒ Lóng Zhēn Fú)

Incantation: In the vermilion furnace, the cinnabar qi is full, and heaven bestows its essence. The unyielding qi receives the gentle qi, and the flaming fire fuses with the essence of the watery yin. The primordial radiance of the sun's time is named Great Brightness. The Nine Yang transform together, and the forms of sun and moon are generated in unity. Gather the hún and pò (the spirit and corporeal souls), and harmonize the essence (jīng) of the Five Qi. The qi of the Five Emperors arises from within, radiating light anew and protecting the body. Take in the drifting empty qi and draw in the full root. Wear the Dragon Flower Kerchief, clothe the body in vermilion robes, and tie a blue sash. Drive the dark birds and fly into the mysterious realm, where rosy light shines upon the Upper Clarity. Bestow the jade tablet, and carve your name in the golden pavilion.

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Interpretation

Consuming the morning glow, one unites with the true spirits and can ascend to the realms of the immortals, mount the Taiwei Heavenly Palace, and rise into the Purple Court. Jí jí rú lǜ lìng (Quickly, quickly, as the statute commands).

Draw the above talisman with cinnabar on a cord of blue thread. Form the hand seal "Formula of Dispersing Radiance from Light" (Lí Guāng Sàn Huī Jué), a hand gesture that draws in the qi of the east. Whenever performing the rite, conjure a pool of fire, recite the "Fiery Dragon Cavern Chapter" (Huǒ Lóng Dòng Zhāng), draw in the breath, and then burn the talisman in the fire pool.

Talisman of the Mysterious Phoenix of the Lunar Palace (Yuè Fǔ Xuán Fèng Zhēn Fú)

The incantation says: Huangjing (a spirit herb or refined essence in Daoist usage) opens its radiance, and the dark yin qi descends from above, dispersing the knots in the deep recesses and gathering the spirit energy into the stomach. The empty and still waves surge, the essence stands tall and brilliant, and the pure, dense substance is refined. The essence of the moon appears in the night, and the Mysterious Palace holds an honored position.

The Five Palace Ladies each guard their maternal station, and the red infant flies in, followed by the child that follows after. The yin qi is turned back so that the light of the Three Terraces shines over all directions, and the hun and po souls are harmonized so that the qi of the five viscera flows freely. Riding on the glow of the clouds, the spirit qi escapes the mundane world and heads east. Upon the head gather numinous clouds, and the body is draped in brilliant colors; in the left hand is held the wind-substance, and at the left side is worn a numinous talisman, while at the right waist is tied the tiger seal. Clad in a phoenix-feather crimson cloak, one wears jade ornaments and golden bells.

Tall trees whose branches intertwine are therefore called the "King of Wood." The divine toad controls the roots, sometimes unfurling and sometimes shining. The essential qi is bright and shines inward, and the Mysterious Water spits out a bridge. Bestowing written texts, one performs the ceremony due to a sovereign, and carves a record upon a stone in the cloud chamber.

Consuming the lunar radiance, one unites with the true spirits, ascends to the immortal realms, rides the purple clouds, and pays court to the Great Sovereign. Jí jí rú lǜ lìng.

Imperial Decree of the Supreme Emperor (Shàng Dì Chì Lìng)

Draw the above talisman with yellow paper and cinnabar. Form the hand seal "Formula of the Mysterious One Generating Water" (Xuán Yī Shēng Shuǐ Jué), a gesture that symbolizes the generation of water through the qi of the Mysterious One, and draw in the qi of the west. Whenever performing the rite, conjure a pool of water, recite the "Mysterious Phoenix Cavern Chapter" (Xuán Fèng Dòng Zhāng), draw in the qi of the west, and then burn the talisman in the water pool.

Talisman of the Sun Lord Yùyí (Rì Jūn Yùyí Fú)

The incantation says: The Spirit of Yùyí (the sun deity) dwells in the Li Palace and is the true essence of light. Nourished by the qi of the nine awns, the body is irrigated, and the Way of the Origin of Heaven is pure and firm. The cinnabar book of the Taiwei Palace calls it "Opening Brightness," causing the vermilion soul within the sun to manifest in a certain form.

At dawn, one dresses in orderly fashion and sets out from the Round Court. The flying-blossom Young Mother, the root of the sun, and the yin essence unite, and purple radiance flows and turns, called the "Five Spirits." Jí jí rú lǜ lìng.

Talisman of the Moon Lord Jiélín (Yuè Jūn Jiélín Fú)

The incantation says: The Lady Jiélín (the lunar deity) dwells in the Kan position and is the true essence of light. Her full radiance has eight awns, bringing auspiciousness and smooth success. The yellow book of the Purple Palace calls her "Supreme Mystery." She receives the water of moonlight to nourish the lunar soul and harmonize the hun and po souls.

In a square and pure place, one composes one's bearing and sets out from the Gate of Mystery. Gathering the light of heaven and concealing the moon's glow, the Five Spirit Ladies release their rays and shine along the nine paths, illuminating the Niwan Palace (the inner-alchemy region of the head) until it is bright. Jí jí rú lǜ lìng.

Sun Lord Yùyù Talisman (Rì Jūn Yù Zì Fú)

Crimson Supreme Dawn: the yang essence transforms and refines the hun and po souls. This is an eight-character incantation.

The incantation says: The radiance of the crimson Supreme Dawn shines upon Yùyí, the true yang qi washes away impurities, and it pours into the Huachi (Florid Pond, a term in Daoist internal cultivation for the saliva of the mouth or a related region). The fire of the heavenly center and the essence of the sun's center are the Great Brightness fire together with the fire bell, a vital essence like adamantine.

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Interpretation

Gaoyang Mingkui (Lord of the Sun's Center), together with the Grand August of the Sun's Center, does not fail the Heavenly Primordial Treasure Radiance, and shines across the vast sky.

Within the mystery, the warring weapons, the Calamity Comet, the Fire-Glow Star, the Fire Star, the Fire Wheel, the Supreme One Primordial Lord (Taiyi Yuanjun), the Great Sage Who Pacifies Fire (Pinghuo Dasheng), Lord Golden Youth (Jintong Dijun), the Great Emperor of the Supreme Ultimate (Taiji Dadi), and the Glimmering Calamity Flowing Bells.

The decree of the Supreme Thearch of the Taiji (Taiji Shangdi): Vajra Fire Mountain, act in accordance with the statute.

When writing the above talisman, first click the teeth thirty-six times. Visualize the fire in your heart issuing from your two eyes, drawing down the light of heaven. Imagine that within the light there is fire, and within the fire there is the Sun Lord, whose color is red. Inhale the red Qi through the nose, unite it with the heart fire, then exhale through the mouth and blow it into the talisman.

Talisman of the Jade Character of the Moon Lord:

Jade light, profound radiance, true Jing ferries the hun souls.

The incantation says: Pure, complete, and perfect are the three lights, soaring in mystery and condensing into radiance; they illuminate the dark, nourish the hun and po souls, and cleanse the body. They gather primordial Qi and enfold the brightness; the yellow Qi surges and spreads, condensing the essential Qi so that it gathers into form. Clear water light reflects and cleanses the yellow blossoms; the stone scenery pours forth in serenity, moistening the light until it reaches the heavens, so that all things under the sky receive its nourishment. Ascending the bright dawn, riding the light into the sky, one may enter the palaces of the Lord; the Changli divine bird descends into the human world, delivering people from the eight calamities, shining as brightly as the sun and standing as firm as the moon. Swiftly, as the statute commands!

When writing the above talisman, first click the teeth thirty-six times. With eyes closed, visualize the kidney water rising from the spine to the crown of the head, drawing down the moonlight. Imagine white Qi within the moonlight, and within the Qi, the white Moon Lord appearing. Inhale this Qi through the nose and let it descend to the Dantian (energy center); then issue it from the Dantian, merge it with the kidney Qi into one mass, and blow it into the talisman. Visualize white light coiling around the talisman.

Talisman of the Tiangang (Heavenly Pivot): (Tiangang is one of the stars of the Northern Dipper, here used as the name of a star deity invoked by talismans.)

(Sun and Moon / Stars) (Decree of Union / True) (Void, Primal Whirlwind / Radiant Brilliance, Ancestral Floating)

(Ultimate Pole / Revolving) (Imperial Fate / Supreme Mystery) (Imperial Summons, True Youth / Melodic Nurturing, Nine Brightnesses) (Supervision / Heaven Above)

(Brahma Light / Bodhisattva) (Majestic Control of the Heavenly Administration / Floating Luo Union Deity) (Naiyu Chouying / Honored One in the Heavens)

When writing the above talisman, face the direction of the Tiangang, recite the "Three Lights One Character Mantra" three times, inhale three breaths, and then send the Qi into the brush to write the talisman. Close the eyes, tilt the head upward, and visualize the Tiangang positioned above the crown. Silently recite "Om, Hum, Dza" three times. Take the azure Qi, visualize within it a child attendant of the palace lord, then divide the Qi into six streams and blow them into the talisman.

Talisman of the Jade Character of the Tiangang:

The incantation says: The upright Qi of the Tiangang star coils around the body and the bones, rising to pass through the Niwan Palace (the cultivation site within the head), so that the Kaiyang star rises high and towering……

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Interpretation

The Ancestral Dao, Xuanzhen (the Mysterious Perfected Realm of the Dao's Origin), shines with brilliant light. Zhengshen Yuyi (the Sun God) received essence qi (jing qi) and took form, and Yinghuo (Mars) also cleansed and refined its body.

The Chiming and Heyang qi presides over the prohibitions. The divine majesty is efficacious, and its radiance illuminates the lineage. The Emperor Star releases its light once more. The Wuji qi condenses into a central radiance, guarded at the center by Zhenxing (Saturn), which sweeps away evil qi and destroys the lewd essences of depravity.

Where the sea encounters it, it boils. Where the mountains encounter it, they melt. Where wood encounters it, it burns to ash. Where fire encounters it, it dissipates.

Changli, the lord of flight, governs the traces of flight. "Milinu'na, an an hong hong" is the incantation within the fulu (talisman). Dong Hai Qing Tong (the Azure Youth of the Eastern Sea) gathers and enumerates the gods, and then recites "Milinu'na, an an hong hong" once more. Act swiftly, as the decree of the Supreme Emperor commands.

When writing this fulu, knock the teeth thirty-six times and close the eyes. Visualize the yellow qi of the spleen flowing out through both nostrils to meet the external yellow qi. Inwardly contemplate the Tiangang Shen (the Celestial Ridge Spirit), with hair loose, three eyes, and white Daoist robes. Form the Dipper Seal (dou yin) with the left hand and hold the Samadhi Fire Bell Sword (sanmei huo ling jian) in the right. Stand in the dingzi bu (T-shaped stance). Draw in the cang (azure) qi so that it enters through the nose and unites with the spleen qi. Then circulate the qi, release it from the spleen, and send it into the talisman.

The "Sanguang Yuzi" (Three Lights Jade Script) above was written by Heavenly Emperor Dahu on the Qiong Terrace of the Upper Palace of Zhuling, and it is used for liandu (refining and delivering the souls of the dead).

From the Shangqing Lingbao Dafa (Great Method of the Shangqing Numinous Treasure), Scroll 49.

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