《上清靈寶大法(一)》Vol. 50

Shangqing Lingbao Dafa (Great Methods of the Shangqing and Lingbao Traditions), Scroll 50, Diagram 8

Transmitted by Ning Quanzhen, Perfected of Universal Salvation and Illumination, Lofty Scholar of Profound Subtlety. Compiled by Wang Qizhen, Successor Master of the Lingbao Teaching and Disciple of the Shangqing Three Caverns.

Gate of the Great Refining Talismans and Seals

Danyang Talisman, also called the Yinqi Yangjing Dongming Zhenfu (True Talisman of Yin Qi, Yang Crystal, and Cavern Brightness)

The characters of the talisman read in order: Fusang unites in brightness. The crystalline essence (Jing) of the Flame Emperor spreads light across the three luminaries, and the Great Emperor pours forth in four directions. Essence, spirit (Shen), and Qi (vital energy) become clear and bright, and light turns through the Five Phases. Within the sun dwells a red youth, and inside him lies hidden yang crystal. The sun blazes with radiant colors, and yang Qi rises in flame. The mysterious origin is mingled, and the two Qi join and merge. The Eastern Well and Yellow Blossom bring golden sweet dew and jade fluid. Cleanse the hun and refine the po, and sun and moon soar high.

The talisman on the right is written in blue-green paper with yellow pigment, and it draws in the Qi of the East and the Center.

Incantation: Yang Qi is stored and accumulated, yin Qi gives birth and rises, and Yin-Yang Qi meet and circulate. The primal Qi of Heaven mingles, and the numbers three and five answer one another within the furnace. Take the Yellow Blossom, and numinous Qi descends into my body, so that I may long enjoy the light of Qi and unite with it. After bathing and purifying the body, the spirits of the Nine Mysteries will come and ride with me in a flying carriage. Quickly, as the statute commands.

Shijing Shuimu Talisman (Talisman of the Water Mother of the Stone Scene)

The characters of the talisman read in order: The Water Emperor, moonlight of the true cavern, lets essence flow from the deep spring and gathers the jade fluid of Jielin. Radiant light shines, the primal transformations turn, and stars and constellations fly across the sky. Form and substance are refined, and spirit and brilliance are made complete. Light shines on vermilion clouds, and Qi gathers in the Eastern Flower. The three images return to their origin, and the embryonic infant rises up bodily.

The talisman on the right is written in azure paper with white pigment. It is drawn in the shape of a round mirror and absorbs the azure Qi.

Incantation: The Eastern Well and Yellow Blossom, the Five Crystals of the Stone Scene, the Flying Mysterious Water Mother, and the golden sweet dew and jade fluid flow from a source that never ends, and the waters of the pool are full. Nine dragons pour down to refine and nourish, and the three lights of sun, moon, and stars cast down their radiance. An immortal exhales sweet and moistening Qi to refine and deliver the spirits of the dead, making the inside and outside bright and clear through and through. The hundred vessels and nine orifices receive the nourishment of primal Qi, and the myriad spirits of the five viscera and six bowels are thereby revived. The knots within the womb open with the water Qi, deathly Qi is cut off, and the roots of evil sink away and dissolve.

Now I refine the remains of the dead, so that the hun and po are restored, their original forms return, and they become a jade body with a golden countenance. Through transformation and refinement, their defilement is removed, and they ascend to the Purple Palace (the palace gates of Heaven). Quickly, as the statute commands.

The talisman on the right is to be visualized: three jade youths and seven jade maidens appear from the water beneath the moon, and then one proceeds to recite...

Moon Lord Incantation: Draw the Qi of the Moon Palace and receive it into water.

Huanghua Dangxing Talisman (Huanghua, the essential Qi within the moon; dangxing, washing and purifying the body)

Talisman text: Huanghua descends its essential Qi, and the immortals transform and nourish, moistening the body so that the myriad Shen naturally arise, opening the gate as the water flows. The jade body and golden countenance cast off their old appearance and shine with glory. The embryo congeals into form, and the corpse is given a soul.

Incantation: The sky is clear and the breath pure, the jade hue lofty and bright. Sun and moon exhale their essential Qi, pouring into and refining the body. Shen and Qi bathe within the body, and the sacred water refines the essence until numinous light shines through and is reflected in Shangqing (Highest Clarity), the heaven where the high Daoist deities dwell. The breath is untouched by dust and grime, and the five viscera receive numinous Qi. Karmic offenses are extinguished, the calamities of the Three Paths (the three realms of suffering in Daoist teaching) dissipate, and the afflictions of the Nine Darks (the dim underworld) are removed. Evil roots are severed, and blessings arise naturally. Today, with great vows, I make a covenant before all the spirits, wishing that this body receive opening and deliverance and ascend to the Heavenly Court. Urgent, urgent, act in accordance with the statutes.

Another method of incantation: when writing the talisman on the right, draw in the purple-black Qi of the Heavenly Gate and circle it three times around the talisman.

Incantation: The talismanic command of Yuanshi Tianzun (the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning) washes the body, removes flaws and defilement, and causes the person to ascend to the Southern Palace. Urgent, urgent, act in accordance with the statutes.

Yangjing Yutai Lianxian Talisman (yangjing, the essence of yang Qi; yutai, the pure immortal body refined through cultivation)

Talisman text: Huanghua unites with yin Qi, and the yang essence stabilizes the immortal body. Bathing the nine souls and refining them through nine cycles of cultivation, the corpse is restored to life. Donning crown and sash, one greets the golden dawn. The light of perfect illumination opens and reports to the spirits, and the jade embryo is refined into an immortal body. Radiant light shines in mutual reflection, and fragrance spreads, cultivating body and mind. The Qi of the Nine Yang gives birth and transformation, and dark mysterious mists disperse like smoke. The primordial image turns the numinous Qi, its curves reflecting my body. Soaring up to Shangqing, one clearly sees the jade halls and towers.

Yuzhen Lianxing Talisman (Yuzhen, the Jade Perfected)

Talisman text: The single Qi of Primordial Beginning gives birth to the myriad things. Within chaos the True One manifests, the supreme and mysterious primal Qi. Divine water washes away defilement so that evil Qi no longer disturbs, and a gentle, harmonious wind cleanses away the roots of sin. Sun essence and moon radiance nourish the body, and the Lord True Primal Emperor issues a decree. Universally deliver the wandering souls.

Incantation: The vast, boundless Spirit Spring of Taishang nourishes the withered and raises the myriad things, flowing naturally. Wondrous luminous light and jade fluid clarify the Supreme Mystery, bringing forth souls and cultivating the hun and po, while the numinous register extends without end. Cool Qi protects life and causes the Northern Capital (the Daoist netherworld) to cut off yin Qi. The Huachi (Flowery Pool) is vast, and its source cannot be fathomed. Urgent, urgent, act in accordance with the statutes.

Taiye Lianxing Talisman (taiye, the sacred fluid used in Daoist rites to refine and nourish the body)

When writing the talisman on the right, draw in the Qi of the southeast.

Incantation: Taiye refines and nourishes the body, like a golden horse carrying the relay of the post-stations. Upper and lower, water and fire circulate in interlacing motion, and the myriad phenomena are all purified.

Talisman of Water Refining to Transform into an Immortal

The law of the primordial beginning (Taichu) is vast and boundless, profound and still. It can deliver the dead, refine their souls, and return them to the infinite and inexhaustible Dao, bringing them to the state of perfect truth.

The qi of the Three Primes (Sanyuan) descends and unites, and the qi of the Five Phases (Wuxing) gathers within the spirit-luminaries. The Most High (Taishang) issues commands through talismanic script to the Six Ding Spirit-Generals (Liuding, protective deities in Daoism), causing their concealed numinous power to manifest. The qi of Purple Void (Zixu) rises luxuriantly. When performing the talisman, one must swiftly carry out the decrees of the Most High Taiye (Supreme Liquid Ordinance) in Jade Capital (Yujing, the celestial capital in Daoist cosmology).

Incantation:

Supreme Mysterious Divine Water, moving according to the numbers of the Five Phases, nourishes all things, washes away old defilement, and renews form and spirit. When one is thirsty, it sustains life; the dead, whose souls have departed, find it hard to encounter such divine water. Were it not for great compassion, by what means could one deliver them?

Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statute! (Jiji ru lüling)

Talisman for Sweeping Away Obscurations

Incantation:

The decree of the Primordial Beginning Heavenly Venerable (Yuanshi Tianzun) sweeps away dark obscurations and washes away turbidity, turning murky currents clear and allowing sunlight to pass through and shine.

Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statute!

Talisman of Refining the Form with Golden Liquor

Talisman text:

The essence of the Seven Qi (seven primal vital energies) refines the form with golden liquor. Imperial currents blaze brightly, and true qi shines with numinous light. Refine yang and return to origin. The Left Assistant weaves the mysterious net. Radiance and brilliance mingle, and the Cavern of Penetrating Feast reaches the Eight Soaring Ones. True qi flows smoothly and returns to the source of life.

When writing this talisman, the qi of the southeast enters.

Incantation:

Refine and nourish the physical form with golden liquor, so that the body unites with the Dao and attains truth. Open the three clear realms (the celestial tiers of Daoist cosmology); this is the root of life. Its realm has no darkness and no boundary, and no beginning or end. The Primal Sovereigns, the Nine Ugly Ones, the Numinous Demons, the Crimson Palace (Jianggong), and the Purple Cloud and Flying Heaven ride upon six dragons. Water rises above and fire sinks below, flowing into the Three Palaces. The spirit returns to yang brightness, and the great Dao penetrates naturally.

Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statute!

Another Talisman

Talisman text:

The upper section opens the Eight Gates, and the Flying Heaven Dharma Wheel turns. The middle section regulates the Five Qi, gathering the hundred spirits into convergence. The lower section guards the Niwan (Mud Pellet, the upper dantian in the head) and the Crimson Palace, the palace where the heart resides. A thousand harmonies and ten thousand convergences naturally accomplish the true Dao. Universally receive opening and deliverance so that dead souls may be reborn, and bodies receive renewal and soar upward to roam the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing, the highest celestial realms in Daoism).

Hold in mind the names of the Six Stars and visualize the starlight of the Southern Dipper descending. Recite the names of the Six Stars again and visualize the dead soul situated within the mouth of the Dipper.

Incantation:

Primordial Beginning Mandate... wander freely in Highest Clarity (Shangqing).

Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the statute!

Talisman of Fire Refining to Return to Truth

Talisman text:

Vermilion Brightness, the Upper Realm, where sun and moon unite in brightness. Stone Scene and Water Mother, Jade Womb and Golden Crystal. Within it are the Red Emperor (Chidi) and the Old Man of the Southern Pole, named Dongfu. Jade pupils shine bright and flourishing. Refine and nourish with the fire of Dongyang, so that yin qi dissipates and the yin dregs within the soul melt away.

Spirits of the Ten Heavenly Stems (Jia, Yi, Bing, Ding, Wu, Ji, Geng, Xin, Ren, and Gui, the gods of the directions) receive refinement (liandu), so that the hun (ethereal soul) and po (corporeal soul) may flourish and be reborn. The youjing (dim essence) and shuangling (bright spirit), alternative names for the hun and po, are refined along with them.

The Three Platforms (Santai), stellar deities, protect the practitioner. They bring about a rebirth in the womb as a jade infant (yuying), restore the remains to life, revive the dead, and grant long life (changsheng).

The Perfected (zhenren), the Great Lord (dajun), and the Celestial Venerable of the Cinnabar Realm (Danjie Tianzun), the deity who governs the Zhuling refinement, allot a new lifespan to the deceased.

Receive refinement and regain life. Ji ji ru lü ling!

Incantation:

Zhu Ming, the Supreme Radiance, where sun and moon flow with light. The true qi (zhenqi) gives birth universally and never fails at any moment.

Bathe the withered remains and refine them with the ceremonial carriage (luanyi) so that they rise. The light streams across the four quarters, and those undergoing refinement attain a golden, crystalline substance.

Yuanshi Tianzun has issued a command: urgently summon the spirits to offer protection. Let the dead change their form and restore their original appearance, delivering them to rebirth in the Southern Palace (nangong).

Ji ji Yuanshi xia di ru lü ling!

Fire Bell Talisman (huo ling fu)

When writing this talisman, face south, form the Jade Emperor seal with the left hand, burn incense, and concentrate the spirit. Dip the brush in cinnabar-colored pigment. Draw the nine rays of the sun (taiyang jiu mang) down into the paper and brush, and write following the prescribed method and sequence without error.

Yan Shen, Yan Shen; Huo Ling, Huo Ling. Above, they connect to the Purple Pole; below, they reach the Yellow Gloom. They drive away demons and refine the hun and po. This is the numinous power of the Red Emperor.

The two Yanjing spirits and the Three Platforms refine the form with streaming light and transform the body. They refine the po so that the hun is at peace, destroy the ancestor of the myriad demons, and ascend on the smoke.

In forward order: the Upper Origin bestows blessings, the Middle Origin pardons transgressions, and the Lower Origin relieves calamity. These are overseen respectively by the Heavenly Official, the Earth Official, and the Water Official. In reverse order: Tianpeng, Tianshou, Yisheng, and Yousheng guard the practice.

Focus the spirit in singleness and enter the Fire Realm (huoxiang). Blend the nine qi and gather them into the August Lord of the Void (Xuhuang).

Haotian has issued a decree: golden flow, radiant rays. The Nine Heavens open wide, beneficial and firm without limit. Begin the first stroke at the character pronounced chi, meaning "imperial command."

Ji ji! Ji!

Refine the cinnabar realm (Danjie) by fire, so that both form and spirit flourish naturally.

Transform and refine the sacred talisman so that inner and outer both flourish. In accordance with the Supreme Emperor's command, carry out the refinement swiftly.

The above talismans are written in cinnabar on yellow silk. While writing, recite the "Xuanzhen yinzhu" (Hidden Incantation of the Mysterious Perfected), also called the "Yuyin she qi lingshu" (Numinous Writ for Gathering Qi by Jade Sound).

Incantation:

Ancestral Dao, Mysterious Perfected: the divine light shines brilliantly. Yuyi, the sun deity, refines form and substance, and Yinghuo, the spirit of Mars, washes the body.

Chiming and Heyang govern prohibitions, and the majestic numinous light shines. Piaodi restores the radiance.

The heroes of Wuji, the Central Star Zhenxing, sweep away evil qi and destroy the deluded essences of wickedness.

When the sea meets it, it boils. When wood meets it, it turns to ash. When fire meets it, it burns brighter. When metal meets it, it melts.

The Lord of Changli governs the spirits of flight. Mi li nu na, om om hum hum.

"Mí lí nú nà, ōng ōng, hōng hōng," invoked together as the names of Chenluo and Qingtong of the Eastern Sea (Dōnghǎi Qīngtóng), Daoist divine names.

Mí ní nú nà, ōng ōng, hōng hōng; mí ní nú nà, ōng ōng, hōng hōng; mí ní nú nà, ōng ōng, hōng hōng. Swiftly, swiftly, as commanded by the Supreme Emperor (Shàngdì).

The Lord of Long Life of the One Qi Lineage (Yīqì Zōng Shén Chángshēng Dàjūn), the sovereign who governs longevity, is invoked when Xiǎo Zhào, a term Daoists use for one newly entering the Way, performs refinement (liàndù) for the souls of the deceased. He implores the True Qi (zhēnqì), the original vital breath, from above.

Respectfully, he summons Wén Xiù, the assistant officer of the Flowing Gold, Fiery Bell, Flying Heaven, Crimson Qi Sovereign (Liújīn Huǒlíng Fēitiān Chìqì Dìjūn), and asks him to unfold his light, dispel demonic obstacles, and hold them in check through the seal method (yìnfǎ).

When the incantation is finished, the Purple Qi of the sun (the violet vital energy of the sun) and its nine rays are drawn in and poured into the talisman.

Zhūlíng Liàndù Talisman (Vermilion Numen Refinement Talisman)

The talisman lists the venerated deities of the Five Phases, Gold, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth, who are charged with refining the souls of the dead. The talisman officers of Zhūlíng are joined with the Samādhi of Shàngqīng (Highest Clarity). True fire descends swiftly to refine the souls of the dead. The General of the Three Primes refines the souls of the dead. The Thirteen Stellar Lords; Kuí, Zhǐ, and Wěi. The Lord of Zhūlíng refines the souls of the dead. Swiftly, carry out the order.

When writing this talisman, use red paper and cinnabar, and pair it with the southern Qi and the noon script (wǔwén), which correspond to the south and the noon hour.

Yùmóu Liànzhì Talisman (Jade Pupil Refinement Talisman)

When writing this talisman, pair it with the noon script and introduce fire Qi.

The incantation reads:

Supreme Refinement: tread the nine steps, and walk the Gang (cosmic pacing pattern) according to the eight directions and the Kun position. Turn and walk seven times so that inner and outer are joined. The Three Terraces (stellar deities) and the Qi of Zǐ and Wǔ receive the true talisman in the Crimson Palace (Jiànggōng, the inner palace corresponding to the heart). They refine the vermilion fire and the crimson heart Qi of the myriad spirits. They drive out evil and poison, so that all who come and go gain benefit. In the Northern Capital's Qu Mansion (the netherworld bureaucracy), the matters of separation and union return to Shàngqīng. The wind and fire of the Great Cavern move naturally and without cease. Swiftly, carry out the Supreme Refinement decree.

Huǒliàn Biànxiān Talisman (Fire Refinement Transformation into Immortal Talisman)

The incantation reads:

Qi transforms into a person. The corpse changes and enters a mysterious realm. Through three transformations and nine tiers of refinement, it ascends to the nine heavens. Having passed through the calamities of the nine heavens, the soul is delivered and refined, regains life, and becomes a true person. Swiftly, carry out the decree.

Shuǐliàn Chéngzhēn Talisman (Water Refinement Perfection Talisman)

Jiǔliàn Fǎnshēng Fùgù Talisman (Nine Refinements Return to Life and Restore the Original Form Talisman)

The incantation reads:

The soul, the vital spirit, the essence, and the corpse are gathered, the breath is held, and all is secured so that nothing disperses. The spirit returns to Hòutǔ (the earth goddess, or the earth itself), and the body is restored to its original form. Swiftly, carry out the order.

Under the command of the Supreme Emperor, the liver Qi is released.

Refine all sinful souls with true fire, so that the spirit becomes clear and upright and the myriad Qi together attain immortality. The golden true countenance changes its old appearance, and after nine refinements it returns to life. Sunken souls and lingering vital spirits can all roam freely in Shàngqīng. Swiftly, carry out the decree of the Nine Heavens' Sovereign Lord.

"Hóng xìng chí dào mǎo, mò mò tóng gēng chǒu mó zhēn jì lì duì wà là qǔ chéng wǔ" is a passage whose wording is probably corrupted or may be a talisman formula or oral password. The surviving text is difficult to interpret, so it is preserved as written.

Numinous Treasure: Myriad Things Dispersed and Dissolved, Benefit the Six Directions, Zhengyi (Orthodox Unity) Method of Perfected Knowing that the One Is Attainable

Relay Decree for Summoning Below

Five Spirits Mixed Talisman

When writing this talisman, pinch the middle finger in the Chinese mudra (zhōngwén jué) and draw in the qi of the five directions.

The incantation says:

Shangyuan Taiyi (Supreme Primordial One), dwelling in the Upper Dantian (dāntián), namely the Niwan Palace, guards within the Niwan. Zhongyuan Siming (Director of Destiny of the Middle Origin) sits at ease in the Crimson Palace (the heart palace). Xiayuan Taokang governs the palace of life and holds the registers of names. Wuying Gongzi (Prince Wuying) and Baiyuan Shenzun (Venerable Baiyuan) are also seated in their positions together.

Once the jade talisman is summoned, the five spirits gather and unite. Swiftly, as the Numinous Treasure talisman decree and statute command!

Sunlight and moonlight flow back and forth, and the yang light, like fire, enters the body and refines the dark and stagnant qi. Corpse pollution dissipates, the myriad qi come into harmony, and the person swiftly escapes the Five Sufferings and ascends to the heavenly hall. Swiftly, as the statute commands!

Talisman for Returning Light and Restoring Form

The incantation says:

The qi in heaven has already become clear, and the human form has already been transformed and born. One is born in heaven and, after nine transformations, takes form anew. The Five Sufferings and Three Paths (the realms of suffering) are cut off, and the name of death is removed from the registers. The souls who suffer are delivered and returned to the court where the Heavenly Emperor resides. Swiftly, as the statute commands!

Talisman of the Nanchang Registrar

The incantation says:

Zhuling (Vermilion Numinous), Zhuling, the Qingqing (Azure Origin) gives birth and transformation. Nanchang presides over the greatest deliverance, universally rescuing the numinous multitudes. The Registrar (the spirit clerk who manages the registers of names) descends swiftly, bestowing breath and spreading golden light. Swiftly, as the statute commands!

Talisman for the Transformation of the Jade Infant Spirit

The incantation says:

The Jade Infant Taiyi Huatai Tianzun (Heavenly Honored One of Taiyi Transformation of the Embryo) and the Xuanyuan Shiqi Sanbao Tianjun (Heavenly Lord of the Three Treasures of the Primordial Qi of the Mysterious Origin), together with Qian Ling and Kun Mu (the numinous spirits who symbolize the yin and yang of heaven and earth), respond to one another. The August Emperor of the Void has transmitted his edict, causing the jade embryo to divide and take form. The nine qi become manifest and merge into life, and the nine heavenly yuan qi nurture the fetus until it becomes true.

Heaven's qi is clear, earth's qi is pure, and the human heart is at peace. An echo comes from within the valley, the nine heavens open through it, and the true form appears. The yang soul gathers and becomes spirit, and the seven po (corporeal souls), namely Shigou (Corpse Dog), Fushi (Hidden Arrow), Queyin (Sparrow Yin), Tunzei (Devouring Thief), Feidu (Flying Poison), Chuhui (Removing Filth), and Chouifei (Foul Lungs), each return to their places and guard the body. They ascend to the Three Heavens above and descend to the Nine Springs below, and once the matter is complete they return to their origin. All the spirits become the numinous beings of the Seven Virtues. Swiftly, as the decree of the Taiyi Tianzun and the statute of the Lingbao Dure (Numinous Treasure Salvation) talisman command!

When writing this talisman, first visualize Taiyi Jiuku Tianzun (Heavenly Honored One of Taiyi Who Saves from Suffering) releasing a wisdom light like a precious treasure, shining upon and dispelling the yin qi within the seven po. At the same time, form the Jade Emperor mudra, gather the qi of the five directions, and blow it into the talisman.

Talisman for Restoring Numinous Qi and Nourishing the Pure Substance

The incantation says:

The Yuanhuang (Primordial August One) numinous essence gives birth to and nurtures the myriad things. The Three Lights (sun, moon, and stars) shine brightly, and the five qi rise and ascend. Withered and decayed things are made to sprout anew, and the five spirits are restored to their origin. The Five Elders open the mechanism of transformation, so that a person is returned to the state of an infant. Qi is born in the Three Fields (the Upper, Middle, and Lower Dantian), and the embryonic breath condenses in the Yellow Chamber (the image within the body that practice aims at). The decree of the Heavenly Treasure Lord, the decree of the Numinous Treasure Lord.

The Deity of the Divine Treasure commands:

The Official of Nanchang, who oversees the registers of the netherworld, unfolds the light and spreads its radiance. Receiving primordial Qi, the breaths generate and transform one another; the jade eyes reveal the sacred writings.

Yellow Florescence pours forth its vital essence, refining the souls of the dead until they are transformed into immortals. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the law of the primordial Qi of the Ancestor of Origin!

Talisman for Returning the Corpse to Life

This talisman must be written in a single stroke while holding the breath. Take the golden light from ten thousand fathoms and infuse it into the talisman.

Talisman for Returning to the True

This talisman is specifically used to rescue and deliver the souls of those who died after violating the Thunder Rites or the law.

Talisman of Brahma Qi

For this talisman, form the Jade Emperor’s mudra and recite the name “Jade Emperor.” With each word, draw in one breath and blow it into the talisman.

Talisman Inscription for Refining and Deliverance

Incantation:

Rescue those on the verge of death, whose breath has ceased, and restore them to life. Harmonize the myriad Qi; bring all things together, and let transformation return to Highest Clarity. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the command!

Talisman for Harmonizing the Five Qi and Uniting the Hundred Spirits

Incantation:

Regulate and harmonize the Five Qi—the five fundamental forms of primordial energy. … Each has its own gate of generation. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the command!

Limitless Talisman for Restoring the Bones to Life and Delivering Souls

Incantation:

One, two, three, four, five; Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, Earth. May the hun and po souls find peace.

Laojun comes to rescue those in suffering. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the command of the Most High Lord Lao!

Talisman for Summoning the Primordial Lord of Taiyi, Director of Life

Incantation:

In the East is the Celestial Lord Taiyi, who governs the love of life. Please descend swiftly to the Fire Court and release flowing flames to deliver all beings. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the command of the August Jade Emperor!

Taiyi Talisman for Pursuing Souls

Incantation:

Great Lord Taiyi, Director of Life and Pursuer of Souls, send down the divine tiger directly. Come swiftly; do not linger. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the command of the Great Lord, Director of Life!

Taiyi Talisman for Restraining Souls

By command of the Great Lord Taiyi, Director of Souls and Destiny: today you are to undergo refinement and deliverance. Do not leave the ranks without authorization. The Nine Qi of the Central Sovereign oversee the deliverance of life.

Taiyi Talisman for Delivering Souls

Taiyi delivers souls; Taiyi unites souls. In the Yellow Li Grotto, the two Qi undergo refinement and deliverance. Wuying dwells on the left, Baiyuan on the right; the essence within the Mudball Palace returns to unity. The Dao I serve is precious because it nurtures all beings. Swiftly entrust the hun and po souls to the flowing flames. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the command of the primordial Qi of the Ancestor of Origin!

Taiyi Talisman for Uniting Souls

Taiyi governs destiny; the Central Yellow governs the source of life. Yin and Yang mingle, and primordial Qi flows back and forth. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the command of the primordial Qi of the Ancestor of Origin!

Talisman for Uniting Forms with the Jade Names of the Five Emperors

(The Primordial Lady of the Nine Qi, Director of Wood in Eastern Florescence)

The talisman on the right is marked “Mao.” Take in Qi of the azure color, harmonize it with Liver Qi, and blow nine breaths.

(Hengshan Great Emperor and Primordial Lady of the Three Qi: the divine emperor of Hengshan and the Primordial Lady who governs the Three Qi.)

The talisman on the right is marked “Wu.” Take in Qi of the red color, harmonize it with Heart Qi, and blow three breaths.

(Jinhua Metal Official and Primordial Lady of the Seven Qi: the Metal Official deity of Jinhua and the Primordial Lady who governs the Seven Qi.)

The talisman on the right is marked “You.” Take in Qi of the white color, harmonize it with Lung Qi, and blow seven breaths.

(Hengshan Water Official and Primordial Lady of the Five Qi: the Water Official of Hengshan and the Primordial Lady who governs the Five Qi.)

The talisman on the right is marked “Zi.” Take in Qi of the black color, harmonize it with Kidney Qi, and blow five breaths.

(Songshan Supreme Emperor and Primordial Lady of the One Qi: the Supreme Emperor of Songshan and the Primordial Lady who governs the One Qi.)

The talisman on the right is marked “Center.” Take in Qi of the yellow color, harmonize it with Spleen Qi, and blow twelve breaths.

Talisman for Infusing the Five Sprouts

East: Chenglan.

South: Baorong.

West: Weicheng.

North: Huaping.

Center: Lingliao.

Incantation for Gathering the Qi of the Five Sprouts

The azure sprout of the East: purple clouds and green mists intermingle. Consume the azure sprout and drink the morning clouds.

The cinnabar essence of the South shines brightly, drifting to and fro. Consume the cinnabar essence and drink from the Cinnabar Pond.

The luminous stone of the West is pure white and bright, its form whole and complete. Consume the luminous stone and drink from the Jade Pond.

The dark nourishing essence of the North: the dark pearl moistens and nourishes. Consume the dark nourishing essence and drink the jade syrup.

The yellow Qi of the Center issues from the Yellow Court, where the high immortals dwell. Consume the yellow Qi and drink the sweet spring.

Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statute and command!

Recite each incantation seven times for each talisman. Following the hand-seal method for the corresponding direction, gather the Qi of that direction and blow it onto the talisman.

Eastern Azure Emperor, Jade Official of the Supreme Origin, Mysterious Numina: Natural Talisman of the Eight Paths for Transcending to Immortality

The incantation says:

The primordial essence and Qi were still undivided in chaos; azure Qi spread forth. Twelve divine youths guard and protect the Liver Soul. Two-seven and four-five transform, forming clouds that array themselves like a camp. The nine hearths, nine shrines, and ancient trees never cease. The divine tiger exhales poisonous Qi; the precious sword is hurled out, its flames burning. Sweep away essence-devouring parasites and uncanny Qi. Let the mind and spirit not wander recklessly; peacefully preserve the Lord Emperor’s Way. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the Supreme Emperor’s decree!

Southern Red Emperor, Jade Official of the Mysterious Origin, Scarlet Numina: Natural Talisman of the Eight Subtleties, Jade Truth

The incantation says:

Scarlet radiance opens the seal; the essence of heat stirs up the wind. The Three Emperors and Two Abodes shine forth brilliantly, floating into view. The Director of Destinies governs gain and loss, and the myriad emperors come to pay court. The Vermilion Phoenix spits forth flames, melting even metal and stone. The flowing bells hurl lightning, cutting down red demons and evil forces; bind the nine kinds of vile, wicked spirits, cover them with ashes, and burn them with fire. Purify the fortune of the imperial house, so that the Way of De may flow freely and without hindrance. Hasten, hasten, in accordance with the statute and command!

Western White Emperor, Jade Official of the Central Origin, Yellow Numina: Purple True Talisman of the Nine Palaces’ Transformative Creation

The incantation says:

When the Golden Essence opens or manifests, the spirit talisman of the Great Lord of the Sevenfold Division of Venus drifts amid pure white clouds of Qi.

Summon the Dragon Spirits to transform into water and extinguish the dark smoke; drive off and capture the wicked beasts.

Settle the soul spirits so that I may accord with nature. May the Orthodox Qi of the Primordial Sovereign descend and protect my body.

Lengthen life, deliver the people, and let the spirit and soul ascend. This matter is urgent; let it be carried out according to the law.

Jade Talisman of the True Perfection of the Eight Ways, Subtle and Empty, of the Primordial Spirit of the Jade Office of the Dark Emperor of the North.

The incantation says:

The mysterious light suddenly appears, and the Qi of the five directions flows and moves. Above the twin towers, the Lord on High and the myriad spirits take form.

Settle the soul and its ethereal counterpart, guard the mind, and gather the essence of fire. The Azure Dragon and Black Tiger smash the Yellow Troops.

The spirit light shines brilliantly and shakes the precious sword. Fire stars race forth, and the mighty warriors of the Three Heavens destroy ten thousand kinds of spirits and monsters.

Protect the peace of the state and the family, so that the Dao may be put into practice and all under Heaven may be at peace. This matter is urgent; let it be carried out according to the law.

Yellow Emperor’s Jade Talisman of the Jade Office: the Subtle Spirit of the Three Primordials, the Eight Administrations, and the Yellow Origin of True Life.

The incantation says:

As chaos first divides, the Primordial Qi returns to unity, and the yellow emanations spread toward the four directions. The True Elder, who responds to and shelters all living beings, transforms into an infant.

Nurture the nine Qi and gestate Heaven and Earth, Yin and Yang. The sun and moon travel above, while the stars hang down from the sky.

Wind and fire clash; wind blades fly in chaotic profusion. The Six Heavens, the Nine Ugly Ones, and other evil influences are struck down, and the mind and spirit scatter.

The Supreme One’s spirit talisman descends, leaving evil influences nowhere to hide. The temple music of the Nine Stars leads people into the Dao’s state of Wuwei (non-action). This matter is urgent; let it be carried out according to the law.

These five talismans are also called the “Lingbao Earth Talismans for Pacifying and Protecting a Residence.” When writing them, follow the hand signs for the five directions and write down the Qi of each direction separately.

Declaration:

Lingbao Natural Five Emperors’ Jade Office Treasure Talismans.

Invocation when writing the talisman:

The invocation for the stone talisman is as follows: I summon the Direct Talismans of the Azure Emperor, Qu Gengsheng; the Red Emperor, Zhu Chang; the Central Yellow Emperor, Yu Zhen; the White Emperor, Ru Quzheng; and the Black Emperor, Yin Feng. On behalf of the deceased [name] and others, I ask that True Qi be sent down to refine and nurture their embryonic breathing, so that they may return to life and be restored. Let this be carried out according to the laws and regulations of the Mysterious Register.

Year, month, day, and hour of the invocation: the [year] of the Grand Year, [month], [day], [hour].

Ritual title and surname of the officiant: [surname], having received the charge, respectfully carries this out in accordance with ritual procedure.

The “Ten Heavenly Stems Complete-Form Talisman” is also called the “Body-Refining Talisman.”

Heaven has three wondrous essences: the sun, moon, and stars. One should draw upon the Qi of their Three Lights and form the hand sign corresponding to one’s birth year. Earth has three wondrous Qi: Yi, Bing, and Ding, along with the Qi of the north. The human body also has three treasures: Shen (spirit), Qi (vital energy), and Jing (essence), which are the three primordial Qi within the body. Taiguang, Youjing, and Shuangling are the three souls of a person; the three souls should be settled and kept within.

The Azure Emperor, the Wood deity of the East, protects the human Hun at the Mao position. Liver Qi joins with the Qi of the East, producing the sound “xu.” The Vermilion Emperor, the Fire deity of the South, nurtures human Qi at the Wu position. Heart Qi joins with the Qi of the South, producing the sound “he.” The Yellow Emperor dwells at the center and commands the deities. The White Emperor, the Metal deity of the West, watches over the human Po at the You position. Lung Qi joins with the Qi of the West, producing the sound “xi.” The Black Emperor, the Water deity of the North, sets the blood vessels flowing at the Zi position. Kidney Qi joins with the Qi of the North, producing the sound “chui.” The Qi of the five directions circulates throughout the body, enabling the human form to take shape.

Body-Cultivation Talisman for the Face

The numinous Qi of Heaven and Earth arises together with the myriad things. The Five Phases move according to the Heavenly Stems, such as Jia, Yi, Bing, and Ding. The Bagua—the Qian, Kun, Kan, Li, and other trigrams—gathers spirit and refines and nurtures the embryonic origin, returning life to its original beginning. The Heavenly Stems Wu, Ji, Geng, Xin, Ren, Gui, Jia, and Geng work together in transformation, bringing change to the original body.

The illustrations separately show a man from the front and back, and a woman from the front and back.

Incantation for Refining the Body

The void condenses into Brahma Qi, and True Qi arises naturally. The red-script jade characters are divine writings of the celestial realm, known as the Eight Awe-Inspiring Dragon Scripts. Wherever True Qi reaches, stranded souls can ascend. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the ordinances!

Liu-Jia and Liu-Yi, refine and nurture your Liver channel; Liu-Bing and Liu-Ding, refine and nurture your Heart channel. Refine and nurture your spirit and Qi, so that you may preserve your life and live long. Liu-Geng and Liu-Xin, refine and nurture your Lung channel; the Qi in the large and small intestines shall both return to hidden stillness. Liu-Ren and Liu-Gui, refine and nurture your Kidney channel, so that your essence may be abundant and your marrow at peace. Liu-Wu and Liu-Ji, refine and nurture your Spleen and Stomach, so that your bones may be clear and strong, your muscles light and supple, and you may live long and see far. Swiftly, swiftly, in accordance with the ordinances!

One is the womb (Hai position); two is the fetus (Wu position); three is the Hun (Mao position); four is the Po (Dui position); five is the five viscera (center); six is the six bowels (Qian position); seven is the seven apertures (Xun position); eight is the eight luminous aspects (Kun position); nine is the nine spirits (Gen position).

The talisman above should take in the Qi of the five directions, which is then blown into it.

Talisman for Returning to Life

Talisman for Delivering People Through Ten Turns

At the Mao position, the Azure Emperor protects the Hun; at the You position, the White Emperor watches over the Po; at the Wu position, the Vermilion Emperor nurtures Qi; at the Zi position, the Black Emperor sets the blood flowing. The Yellow Emperor dwells at the center and commands the myriad deities, so that each keeps to its proper place. When drawing the talisman, make one continuous stroke around it, turning ten times. After reciting the incantation that follows, draw the stroke upward to finish.

The incantation says:

At the first turn, cure deafness in men and women, so that their ears hear clearly, as if a window had been opened. At the second turn, restore sight to the blind. At the third turn, enable the voiceless to speak. At the fourth turn, enable those with lame or diseased legs to rise and walk. At the fifth turn, restore the long-ill to their former condition.

The sixth transformation restores black hair and causes new teeth to grow. The seventh makes the aged young and strong again. The eighth enables women to conceive and ensures that the fetus, whether already born or not yet born, develops smoothly. The ninth brings buried remains to light and transforms them into forms like gold and jade. The tenth makes dry bones live again.

The deceased, so-and-so, whose soul is being guided to liberation today, receives refinement and transformation and is thereby reborn. Carry this out with all haste.

By the command of the altar of the Three Heavenly Great Sages, with the talismanic mark “Yin,” and by the divine decree of the Celestial Worthy Who Relieves Suffering, the Great One of Taiyi.

By decree: The Most High, Ancient and Mysterious Lord and Emperor of the Great Clarity, issues this command; the talismanic mark is below the middle finger. The Most High, Jade Dawn Lord of the Great Dao and Emperor of the Highest Clarity, issues this command; the mark is on the upper part of the middle finger. The Great Sagely Celestial Worthy, Primordial Beginning, and the Supreme Emperor of Jade Clarity issue this command; the mark is on the middle part of the middle finger.

Talisman for Dispersing Knots

The incantation says:

Great Radiant Spirit, with the divine power of nine transformations, bring forth the azure clouds of light where obstructions have gathered. Conceal their radiance and pour it in to refine and transform the five forms, the five material constituents of the human body. Let the divine presence of the palace descend upon the Six Directions; let the seven spirits be harmonized and settled. Undo what is knotted and blocked, dissolve the roots of the embryo, and cleanse them. Carry this out with all haste, in accordance with the divine decree.

Shangqing Lingbao Dafa, fascicle fifty