《太上大道玉清經》Vol. 6

In the Palace of Southern Radiance (a celestial abode of Daoist immortals), there resides a high immortal named Zhaoling, who leads fifteen thousand attendants. These attendants all originally attained the Dao and achieved sagehood through cultivating their mortal forms. They possess the power of compassion and have acquired the six supernatural abilities (referring to divine sight, divine hearing, and other extraordinary powers), enabling them to traverse space freely. Their lifespans are now fixed—like refined true gold that never changes—allowing them to ascend at will. Their wisdom is vast beyond measure, and their bodies and minds move freely without obstruction, like the empty void.

On the fifteenth day of the seventh month, the high immortal Zhaoling ascended to the highest layer of the Jade Pure Heaven (the supreme realm among the Three Pure Heavens in Daoism) and paid homage to the Celestial Worthy (the highest deity in Daoism) in the Cloud Palace. Bowing reverently, he spoke: "I was originally a lowly and defiled being of the dusty world, yet through the compassion of the Great Dao, I was uplifted and granted both longevity and the supreme teachings of the Dao. Since then, I have strictly upheld the precepts and cultivated myself, fulfilling my aspirations. In principle, I should attend upon the Celestial Worthy morning and evening. However, considering the heaviness of mortal flesh in the lower realms and the vast distance of the celestial path, it is truly difficult to climb here often. Though my cultivation is shallow, my reverence for the Celestial Worthy has endured through kalpas, remaining unshaken in my heart."

The Celestial Worthy, with compassion, told the immortal: "The principle of the transformation of all things is inherently spontaneous. I never act with deliberate effort, nor do I move things through emotion. Just as if someone wishes to perish, the Dao does not forcibly preserve them against their will; if you harbor virtuous intentions, the Dao will not cause you to perish against your will. All things rise and fall, float and sink according to their own inclinations, naturally fulfilling themselves when the conditions ripen. The Dao abides in the most profound and subtle state, thus it flows with all things like water. Birth and destruction—the Dao does not forcibly interfere with either. That you attained the Dao and were reborn arose entirely from your own vow-power. The Dao neither deliberately facilitates nor deliberately obstructs. Human minds each have their own orientations, each following their own will. Even with the Dao's boundless power, it does not forcibly alter them. The root of your initial aspiration to study the Dao..."

Your thoughts naturally give rise to karmic consequences, yet you remain unaware—this is what we call the natural Dao, profound and unfathomable like the hidden true mind. When the assembled immortals heard the teachings of the Celestial Venerable (the highest deity in Daoism), none dared respond carelessly. The Celestial Venerable then asked, "The heavenly path is vast and distant—why have you come?" The immortals replied, "We came specifically to express gratitude and to behold the wondrous mysteries of the supreme Dao."

The Celestial Venerable told them: "The supreme Dao merges all things into one, so subtle that even dust and sand are indistinguishable. It resembles an unformed embryo or the undivided chaos before creation. Cast aside cleverness and intellect—neither deliberately concealing nor deliberately revealing, like the boundless expanse of the primordial Hongmeng state. What profound mysteries could there possibly be for you to observe? The supreme Dao is thus: when transforming, it leaves no trace; when arising or perishing, it leaves no mark; when receiving, it does not cling; when holding, it does not force; when abiding, it does not fixate; when manifesting, it does not flaunt. If displayed for all to see, it would only breed doubt. The Dao has no fixed form, nor is there anything particularly mysterious about it. Empty and serene, deep and obscure, it awakens both self and others—no need for deliberate observation, nor for distinguishing self from other. How could such a Dao have any concrete mystery to behold? It has no color, no form, like the void itself, without division of inner and outer."

"Good men, if you truly wish to observe, journey northeast to the Cloud Palace. Far beyond this place, within the Great Void (the primordial space of cosmic origin), dwell three supreme Perfected Ones cultivating the supreme Dao in emptiness. The first Perfected One has already entered the 'Great Samadhi of Concentrated Spirit' (a profound meditative state) for nine hundred million great kalpas (an immeasurably long cosmic cycle). The second is about to enter the 'Great Samadhi of Forgotten Form' for eight hundred million kalpas. The third will successively undergo the 'Great Samadhi of Six Emptinesses' for seven hundred million kalpas, the 'Unobstructed Great Samadhi' for six hundred million, the 'Great Void Samadhi' for five hundred million, the 'Samadhi of Penetrating Wisdom' for a million kalpas, and the 'Samadhi of Wisdom Generation' for a hundred thousand kalpas. In time, they will descend to the thirty-three heavens, traverse the mortal realm, and all be honored as 'Celestial Venerable of Great Peace in the Later Age,' leading countless attendants to expound the Dharma-gate of Wuwei (non-action) and deliver sentient beings. Then, those attaining the Dao will be as numerous as the sands of the Ganges. If you wish to observe, behold the wondrous Dharma-form of this Celestial Venerable."

Hearing this revelation, the immortals rejoiced, bowed in gratitude, and took their leave. Together they ascended on auspicious clouds, arriving in an instant at the realm of the Great Void. From afar, they glimpsed the three Perfected Ones faintly appearing and disappearing in emptiness—their forms indistinctly veiled within purple clouds, lightly floating upon radiant mists, their celestial presence weaving splendid canopies of cloud and light amid the crimson heavens.

This scripture describes an extraordinarily profound state of cultivation and the wondrous manifestations of immortal beings.

The text begins by depicting the practitioner entering a unique state: the body seems to coalesce from the three primordial Qi (vital energies), the eyes contain the radiance of the sun and moon, and the void serves as their window, while the mind remains as pure and unformed as an embryo in its primal chaos. In this state, the cultivator maintains deep stillness, with breath held internally, body and mind entering an ethereal realm. The five organs function naturally, the three Dantian (energy centers—upper, middle, and lower) nurture true Qi, the six viscera concentrate the Shen (spirit), and the three Hun (ethereal souls) and seven Po (corporeal souls) settle into perfect stillness. Qi flows effortlessly, and the mind is serene as still water.

Upon witnessing such subtle and wondrous phenomena, immortals arrive in great numbers, riding auspicious clouds, kneeling in reverence toward the void, not daring to utter a sound. They remain immersed in contemplation of the profound mystery, even forgetting their own existence. Suddenly, the forms of the three perfected beings (highly realized adepts) vanish, leaving only a hazy glow of Qi. After a long while, the three perfected beings flicker in and out, appearing and disappearing unpredictably in the void, breathing in unison with the wind and clouds.

The scripture then describes a series of miraculous transformations: numinous winds stir the eight directions, divine Qi surges everywhere, now manifesting, now withdrawing. Ultimately, the highest state is attained—"generating without moving, accomplishing without striving"—where the sun, moon, and stars revolve naturally, and all things sprout forth from formlessness. True Qi pervades heaven and earth, nourishing the growth of all beings with the innocence and spontaneity of an infant. The cultivator transcends the constraints of the six directions (up, down, and the four cardinal points), neither sinking nor floating, abiding serenely in the void.

The scripture concludes by stating that when the immortals witness these divine transformations, vast stretches of time pass unnoticed. Only upon seeing the perfected beings reveal the wisdom of life do they suddenly awaken to the profound mystery behind the shifting winds and clouds. The entire passage portrays the mystical experience of a cultivator reaching an exalted state, where body, mind, and the cosmos become one.

When all things begin their movement and growth, the immortals (referring to those who have attained the Dao through cultivation) pay homage to the celestial realms amidst the clouds. Though empowered by the great Dao, they remain both joyful and reverent, not daring the slightest negligence.

At this moment, the Three True Immortals (perfected beings who have attained the Dao), moved by compassion for these seekers, understand their purpose and speak with profound resonance: "Why traverse this arduous path through the clouds? We share the same origin in Dao cultivation—why cling to external forms?" The immortals dare not speak further, humbly seeking compassionate guidance.

The Lord of Great Peace (a revered Daoist deity) instructs them: "Why not let your Shen (spirit) and Qi flow naturally between existence and non-existence? Follow the transformations of heaven and earth, gathering and dispersing according to circumstance. The physical form is impermanent—dwell in the formless, clear away distractions like the vast void. Let your primordial spirit return to emptiness, reflecting luminous clarity while nurturing true Qi. Condense the innate primordial Qi (purple essence) as your foundation, settle your hun and po souls in the 'cloud chamber' (Dantian), return fine dust to the primordial origin, and harmonize Qi within the celestial vault. Allow all things to grow naturally, following the hidden movements of the true Dao.

Even standing atop cloud-wrapped cliffs, you may travel without moving, maintaining inner emptiness. Be pure as an infant—neither straining to hear nor see, but following spontaneity. Without attachment or forcing, neither full nor empty, undifferentiated and whole—this is the mysterious Dao-state."

Hearing this sacred instruction, the immortals softly respond, but before their words fade, they look up to see the perfected beings ascending beyond reach to the highest heavens—no chance to follow or inquire further. Their forms dissolve into the great void, their breath scattering like drifting clouds. Filled with awe, the immortals yearn to serve and follow. As they express half their devotion, the Lord speaks again: "I have transcended all bonds—why create troubles for yourself? Until you fully release attachments, how can you ride clouds and command Qi?"

As the immortals prepare to reply, the Supreme Perfected One (Taizhen) soars away, swifter than meteors and lightning. In deep contemplation, they suddenly perceive the golden Dharma-form of the Lord manifesting in the mysterious realm, radiant light swirling about him like drifting cloud-Qi—too subtle for ordinary sight and sound, only the divine transformations can be apprehended.

Thus the immortals and their retinue remain suspended in emptiness, concentrating on contemplating the divine transformations of the Celestial Lord of Great Peace, humbly realizing the Dao's profound truths. They vow to follow the Celestial Lord's compassionate manifestations in the lower realms, their resolve unwavering. Moved by their sincerity, the Celestial Lord bestows his mysterious realm revelation upon them.

The supreme principles of the Dao originate from nature itself, manifesting miraculous transformations in countless ways. Though capable of acting according to its will, the Dao itself expends no mental effort; though able to take form as needed, it engages in no deliberate action. This is what we call "Wuwei (non-action) that accomplishes all"—seemingly without intentional effort yet achieving everything, appearing to create nothing yet nurturing all existence.

When one acts with deliberate intention, completeness becomes elusive; when one creates with conscious purpose, universality proves difficult. The true Dao neither drives the Shen (spirit) nor exhausts the body. The mind remains unperturbed yet retains its clarity, the body untaxed yet endlessly vital. When spiritual nature and physical life merge, nothing lies beyond accomplishment. This embodies the principle: "Without striving, achievement comes; without seeking, growth occurs naturally." The Dao eternally abides in Wuwei (non-action), yet nothing lies beyond its capacity—the fundamental truth of primordial chaos resides herein.

Good disciples (honorific for practitioners), I (the Celestial Master) too manifest these miraculous transformations without conscious intent. Moving heaven and earth, harmonizing generative Qi (vital energy), opening cultivation methods for all beings—this is the inevitable natural course of the Dao. You should understand: though the supreme Dao manifests through worldly phenomena, true compassionate Dharma operates precisely thus. Just as you encountered the Dao in past worldly lives—building bridges of salvation widely, embracing and nurturing, reviving the withered—all these reflect the Dao's motherly grace: cradling nourishment, sustaining with sustenance, sheltering with guidance. Though never wearied, this still engages the Shen (spirit). The heavenly Dao is vast, yet its resonance is exquisitely subtle—nothing goes unfelt, no sincere plea unanswered.

The Dao is like an ocean—all streams return to it; the Dao is like heaven—all things rely upon it. Good disciples, my (the Celestial Master's) absence from the mundane world has been brief. Tens of thousands of kalpas (cosmic time cycles) pass in an instant. Before long, I shall first ascend to the Great Luo Heaven (highest Daoist celestial realm) to pay homage to the Primordial Celestial Master, then convey edicts to all saints across the heavens. Though you are exalted immortals, your roaming powers have yet to reach the celestial zenith. Return now to the Palace of Southern Radiance (abode of immortals). After a hundred thousand kalpas, I shall pass through to meet you there.

At that moment, the exalted immortals received the teachings of the Celestial Master of Great Peace, bowed in farewell, and returned to the Palace of Southern Radiance. Simultaneously, the Celestial Master ascended with the floating Qi (vital energy) to Great Luo Heaven, paying silent homage to the Primordial Celestial Master—communication occurring through Shen (spiritual awareness) alone. Further ascending within Great Luo Heaven, they honored the Celestial Master of Emptiness, again without speech. Entering the supreme realm of profound stillness, all returned to silence—no more audiences, no more words. Upon reaching the realm of supreme voidness, even form disappeared—the Celestial Master of Great Peace becoming wholly without shape or appearance.

This scripture depicts a magnificent sacred scene in Daoism. The Celestial Worthies (Tianshi) of the Three Pure Heavens (Sanqing) — the Jade Pure, Upper Pure, and Great Pure realms — manifest in different forms across celestial tiers: formless and imageless in the highest heaven, having form but no sound in the middle heaven, and only in the lower heavens do they begin to communicate through speech. The Great Compassion Celestial Worthy (Dabei Tianshi) and the Great Peace Celestial Worthy (Taiping Tianshi) discourse on the Dao within the Cloud Palace of the Jade Pure Heaven, deliberating on how to enlighten sentient beings.

After ten kalpas (an immense cosmic time unit) of silent meditation, the High Immortal of Southern Prosperity (Nanchang Shangxian) beholds the Celestial Worthies radiating extraordinary true light. At this moment, all celestial beings below the Jade Pure Heaven — including upper, middle, and lower rank immortals — arrive in solemn procession carrying offerings of incense, flowers, banners, and canopies, accompanied by celestial music as they ascend through the skies to pay homage to the Great Peace Celestial Worthy and the True Emperor of Great Compassion. For seven days and nights they circumambulate the Cloud Palace while heavenly flowers rain down, accompanied by auspicious signs: golden mountains gushing jade marrow, dragon mushrooms glowing with radiant clouds.

When the immortals compose themselves and kneel in reverence, they witness the Celestial Worthies manifesting three miraculous states: sometimes seated separately in three palaces, sometimes as a single solitary figure, and at other times as two seated together. Their existence fluctuates unpredictably, freely transitioning between "being" and "non-being," now merging three into one, now dispersing one into three.

Finally, the Illuminated Spirit Immortal (Zhaoling Xianren) from the Southern Prosperity Upper Palace kneels mid-air and speaks, recalling how he served the Celestial Worthies for countless eons in the realm of Supreme Void (Taixu). Though having endured multiple cosmic cycles of formation and dissolution in lower realms, his heart's thirst for the Dao remains undiminished. This passage reveals the profound mystery of Daoism's highest sacred realm and the devoted veneration of celestial beings toward the Celestial Worthies.

Suddenly, they beheld the True Radiance (the supreme light of Daoism) shining in the distance, indistinguishable from the primordial source. After completing his celestial inspection, the Heavenly Venerable (the highest deity in Daoism) led the host of immortals away from the heavenly court tainted by worldly dust. The immortals bowed once more, to which the Heavenly Venerable responded: "I understand your intentions—no need for words. All may return to your seats." With reverent bows, the immortals complied.

The Heavenly Venerable continued his discourse: "Originally, I had no need for speech, having even forgotten intention itself. Yet the echoes of the void resonate with your purified hearts. Do you understand?" The immortals replied: "We dare not claim ignorance of your sacred teaching." The Heavenly Venerable nodded slightly. At this, all present entered silent meditation, maintaining perfect stillness for a hundred kalpas (an immeasurably long time). Suddenly, mysterious Sanskrit chants arose from the four directions of the cloud-borne palace—four-character verses too ethereal to discern clearly, like a breeze plucking zither strings or jade trees swaying with crystalline tones. The melody flowed with profound meaning, its depths impossible to fully grasp.

Not daring to look directly, the immortals committed the verses to memory, yet could retain only half the scripture: "The spirit mushroom, rootless yet nurtures all things; inwardly gathers the seven po (the seven yin spirits of the body), outwardly binds the three hun (the three yang spirits). The twenty-four True Spirits (divine energies of the body) come and go without trace, while the essence within the dark profundity transforms endlessly. They endure through kalpas of creation and dissolution, born according to the movement of Qi. Outwardly simple and unhewn, inwardly they nourish the seven meridians (key energy channels). The five spirits (deities of the five organs) bloom like flowers; the three terraces (upper, middle, and lower Dantian) circulate radiant light. Within the Purple Pass (upper Dantian), the pristine child reverses aging, riding clouds to soar skyward, manifesting through mist. Among them dwells the Jade True Divine Being, hailed as the Divine Lord—flanked left by the Unadorned Hero, guarded right by White Origin, with the Mystic Beast shielding behind and the Crimson Phoenix crowding before. Above floats an emerald canopy; below surge golden lotus thrones. Fragrant clouds congeal in midair; sweet dew flows inexhaustibly, ever available yet without discernible source."

The immortals found this celestial Neidan (internal alchemy) scripture impossible to memorize completely. After another hundred kalpas, the Luminous Spirit Immortal looked up to see five-colored auspicious clouds rising from the Heavenly Venerable’s mouth, ascending straight to the Great Void (the highest heavenly realm). Leading the assembly in reverent bows, he inquired: "For a hundred kalpas, the Heavenly Venerable sat in silence without uttering a word. Why now do auspicious clouds emerge from your lips? We implore you to reveal the meaning."

The Heavenly Venerable answered: "These clouds manifest in response to the future Golden Pass Emperor (an important deity). Having previously descended among the Four Heavens (celestial realms), my mission now nears completion. At this hour, all sages of heaven and earth display their divine powers, while celestial signs reveal blessings—the Three Lights (sun, moon, stars) shine propitiously; five-colored auroras form concentric halos."

When auspicious signs appear in the earthly realm—when the Five Sacred Mountains (Mount Tai in the east, Mount Hua in the west, and the other three great peaks) manifest blessings, and the golden-jade essences hidden deep within the earth reveal their forms—it is a portent that the Golden Tower Emperor (Jinque Dijun, an important Daoist deity) will soon descend to the mortal world. Though the exact date remains uncertain, I have already foreseen this vision.

At this moment, the Radiant Spirit Immortal (Zhaoling Xianren, a realized Daoist adept) inquired of the Celestial Worthy (Tianzun) about the origins of the Inner Chapters of the Empty Songs scripture. The Great Peace Celestial Worthy (Taiping Tianzun) replied: "Are you unaware? When the Celestial Worthy of Great Compassion (Dabei Tianzun) governed affairs in this palace, the Primordial Qi (Zhenyuan Qi) of the void spontaneously transformed into these celestial harmonies. This divinely bestowed scripture of numinous verses is supremely precious—even sages and immortals of later ages would struggle to grasp its profundity upon hearing it. It represents the ultimate method for harmonizing the life force (Qi) and refining the true energy, utterly beyond ordinary hearing. I know what you seek, but this is not yet meant to be recorded at your current stage. You immortals have not yet attained the cultivation level required to practice the natural mystic tones of the Inner Scripture of Empty Songs."

The Radiant Spirit Immortal bowed respectfully: "This disciple presumes to request recitation of this scripture, begging the Celestial Worthy's forgiveness and permission to study it." The Celestial Worthy admonished: "That you may hear this scripture is karmic merit accumulated from past lives, destined to achieve true Dao. But remember well: do not recklessly proclaim it. Silent cultivation honors this transmission—disclosure invites calamity, while secrecy brings blessings." Hearing this, the assembled immortals bowed in unison, reverently receiving this inner cultivation scripture.

Then celestial cloud-seal script (Yunzhuan, the Daoist celestial writing) appeared in the sky—an eight-cornered text spanning ten feet, radiating brilliant light. The immortals swiftly engraved these characters onto jade tablets, each treasuring them in silk pouches. Miraculously, these cloud-seal writings remained suspended midair without fading.

The Celestial Worthy continued: "The time when Primordial Qi envelops the world will grow ever longer. If you cultivate accordingly, you too shall attain immeasurable longevity, with forms renewed daily. This is the secret method cherished by supreme true immortals—not even ordinary transcendents may receive it, let alone mundane beings. Radiant Spirit, understand this: no detail of superior Daoist methods should be carelessly revealed, much less this heaven-bestowed scripture. Never transmit this inner scripture to those whose spiritual maturity remains insufficient."

Kneeling, the Radiant Spirit Immortal inquired: "Though mortals dwell in impurity, some know the true path and cultivate toward realization. May it be transmitted to such destined individuals?" The Celestial Worthy responded: "Such people are one in a hundred million—how could you discern the truly predestined?" The Radiant Spirit explained: "Our Southern Chang Palace (a Daoist celestial realm) maintains registers of true immortals. During each Three Primes and Eight Nodes festival (key Daoist holy days), the earthly Directors of Fate report all cultivators' merits and faults without omission."

The Celestial Venerable (highest deity in Daoism) explained: The minds of ordinary people are difficult to discern. Some feign cultivation of the Great Dao (Dao), yet harbor filth and deceit in their hearts, constantly seeking external gains with wavering resolve. To distinguish such hypocrisy, one must examine their spiritual essence (Shen). Without doing so, purity and turbidity, truth and falsehood cannot be separated. Others chase fame and profit, exploiting the name of the Mystic Gate (Daoism) to secretly spy on people, valuing only superficial erudition. If you wish to guide ordinary beings, you must first understand the true nature of such individuals.

At that time, the Immortal Zhaoling did not fully comprehend and inquired again: "How should one examine a person’s spiritual essence? We humbly request detailed instruction, as we are eager to learn."

The Celestial Venerable continued: Every person’s body contains divine spirits (Shen), which reside in the heart. Whatever the mind intends, the spirits already know. If the body seeks to commit wrongdoing, the spirits will not comply. When a person’s heart is sinister, the hun (ethereal soul) and po (corporeal soul) become disordered. However, during special days like the Three Primes (San Yuan, referring to the Three Officials of Heaven, Earth, and Water) and the Eight Solar Terms (major divisions of the twenty-four solar terms), one can resonate with the heavens. Through these signs, a person’s true nature can be discerned. If someone possesses hidden virtue (Yin De), their three hun and seven po will not scatter; they will be supported by benevolent spirits and protected by celestial soldiers, naturally aligning with the Dao.

The Celestial Venerable emphasized: The Supreme Dao (Wushang Dao) can be realized without words, but fearing you have not yet fully understood, take special care not to divulge this lightly. You have endured countless kalpas of suffering, and now, encountering me in the vast void, you have the fortune to hear these wondrous teachings. Soon, you will naturally perceive all truth and falsehood as clearly as if seeing with your own eyes. This is because your body and mind are in harmony with the Dao, allowing you to comprehend thoroughly, without obstruction.

Hearing this, the assembled immortals rejoiced, congratulating one another and bowing reverently. They ordered their attendants to play celebratory music—celestial melodies resounded in unison, and the drums of the Dharma (Fa) echoed through the heavens. At that moment, radiant clouds swirled in the sky, incense smoke curled upward, and immortal chariots circled in the air, their long banners fluttering in the wind. Dragons roared in the distance, phoenixes sang in the void, heaven and earth trembled, and the sun and moon appeared simultaneously. The Divine Toad (symbolizing the moon) leaped from the Lunar Palace, while the Golden Crow (symbolizing the sun) spread its wings in flight. Below, practitioners from the Thirty-Seven Heavens witnessed these auspicious signs and ascended to the Jade Purity Heaven (Yuqing Tian, the highest celestial realm), gathering like clouds.

Finally, the Celestial Venerable told Immortal Zhaoling: "Immortals, regardless of their level of cultivation, can move heaven and earth and command myriad spirits. Know that the power of the Dao is inconceivable—ensure all immortals understand this truth." At that time, countless immortals from the Thirty-Seven Heavens assembled in the Cloud Palace, burning incense and listening to the Dharma.

At that moment, the assembled immortals each expressed their aspirations. The Celestial Worthy (the supreme deity of Daoism), fully comprehending their intentions, entered a state of profound meditation with great compassion, gathering all their thoughts into the spiritual platform (the core of mental cultivation). At this juncture, the Dao naturally manifested nine transformative layers, forming the Nine Heavens, within which nine types of primordial Qi condensed into nine celestial mansions. The Three Supreme Ones (likely referring to the Sanqing deities) presided over these nine mansions, each seated upon a throne adorned with nine dragons. This sacred moment was called the "True Lords of the Nine Mansions and the Great Peace Dao Sovereign," guiding all immortals into the nine celestial abodes.

The Celestial Worthy expounded to the immortals the path of cultivating the Nine Immortals: above, it corresponds to the Nine Heavens; in the middle, it aligns with the nine palaces of the human body (key cultivation sites within the body); mysteriously, it resonates with the nine types of primordial Qi; and below, it governs the Nine Netherworlds. This cultivation method enables one to transcend the cycle of life and death. The saying "One begets Three, Three begets Nine, and Nine times Nine makes Eighty-One" speaks of the cosmic law of generation—this primal method of creation cycles endlessly. If later practitioners can grasp this generative principle, they will abide eternally in the source and naturally attain true immortality.

Witnessing such profound mysteries, the immortals dared not speak carelessly, each realizing that they themselves had attained liberation through this very method. Faced with the Celestial Worthy's earnest teachings, they felt both ashamed and at a loss for words to express their gratitude. The Celestial Worthy, already discerning their thoughts, revealed: "The Supreme Dao fundamentally seeks nothing—why speak excessively? When I sit in the Dao-field and commune spiritually with the myriad celestial sovereigns, this is not the work of mundane form, nor do I accept empty formalities. If mere words could lead to enlightenment, then the ghosts of the underworld and ordinary mortals alike could become immortals. Unless one is mute, who cannot speak? Yet speech itself does not confer the Dao. I do not mean that when the Dao descends, all words must cease—only that you now behold my true form, and you yourselves are no ordinary beings, so there is no need to cling to verbal expressions of gratitude. In this mysterious realm, if doubts arise, ask directly; if understanding dawns, silently absorb it. This is the proper attitude toward the Supreme Dao."

Having received this instruction, the immortals all bowed reverently, their hearts filled with gratitude for the Dao's grace. After a long while, the Radiant Spirit Immortal from the Palace of Southern Brilliance (a Daoist celestial realm) stepped forward and said with a bow: "In the past, we were blessed by the Celestial Worthy's descent to the mortal realm to propagate the Dao across the ten directions. Now the time is ripe—we humbly request your brief presence at the Palace of Southern Brilliance. We dare not detain you long, for this is an opportunity rare across ten thousand kalpas." Hearing this, all the immortals prostrated themselves, remaining bowed for a long time.

The Celestial Worthy replied: "I have already taken leave of the Great Emperor of the Upper Realms and bid farewell to the assembled deities, preparing to return to my cloud palace. Since our karmic connection here has reached its end, you now ask me to stay..." (The original text seems to trail off here, leaving the thought unfinished.)

The Immortal Wei Ruxin was overjoyed upon hearing the teachings of the Celestial Worthy (the supreme deity in Daoism). The Celestial Worthy continued: "All you immortals should first return to the Cloud Palace (abode of immortals), which has always been a place of purity, unsuitable for prolonged stay in the mundane world. The Great Compassionate Celestial Worthy once descended to save beings, briefly dwelling in the human realm to expound the Dharma, but has now returned to the Cloud Palace and merged back into emptiness. My descent this time is out of compassion to observe later practitioners. You should understand this principle."

At this moment, the High Immortal Zhao Ling, an exalted immortal, inquired further: "When will the Celestial Worthy return?" The Celestial Worthy replied: "Not too long—after twenty thousand kalpas (an immeasurably long cosmic cycle), I shall return." The assembled immortals reverently assented, bowed in farewell to the Celestial Worthy, and then prostrated before the Great Compassionate True Emperor (the Great Compassionate Celestial Worthy) before withdrawing. When they looked up again, the Celestial Worthy had already vanished.

The immortals glanced around and saw that the Three Holy Ones had all dissolved into emptiness. Only the Cloud Palace remained, silent and ethereal, with a gentle breeze stirring and incense smoke curling from the burner. The celestial retinue hovered in the air, and the heavenly music (celestial melodies) had ceased. Witnessing the supreme power of the Dao displayed by the Celestial Worthy—transforming from form into formlessness—the immortals lingered for a long time, filled with wistful longing. Finally, they boarded their cloud chariots together and followed the High Immortal Zhao Ling back to the Southern Chang Palace (a celestial realm) to continue their cultivation.

In the Southern Chang Palace, the immortals devoted themselves to studying the Heavenly Scripture of Yin-Born Treasures. After eighteen years, they all attained the True Dao. Throughout the twenty thousand kalpas, they maintained humble hearts in anticipation. At that time, the Celestial Worthy, observing from afar in the Cloud Palace that the immortals had realized the Dao, manifested before them. The Great Compassionate Celestial Worthy raised his left hand, and the gates of the Thirty-Three Heavens (the highest celestial realm) instantly opened wide. All celestial beings saw the Celestial Worthy’s left hand like a white rainbow spanning the void, with five-colored light radiating from his fingernails, illuminating the Southern Chang Palace.

The perfected immortals immediately bowed in reverence. Within the radiance, they beheld the Celestial Worthy seated in the Empyrean Cloud Palace, manifesting the "Heavenly Covenant of the Left" in eight-colored light. Filled with joy, the immortals understood that the Celestial Worthy had come from afar to affirm their cultivation. The Celestial Worthy’s left hand remained visible in the Cloud Palace for ten thousand kalpas before withdrawing, and the light gradually faded. Only when the twenty thousand kalpas were fulfilled would the Celestial Worthy return as promised.

Later, the Perfected Ones (immortals who attained the Dao) walked upon the void and beheld celestial visions from afar. On the morning of the first day of the new year, they witnessed three-colored rays—azure, crimson, and white—emanating from the rising sun in the east, illuminating the Palace of Southern Prosperity (a celestial abode). These luminous qi swirled and lingered in the void, exuding an exceptionally rich fragrance. This wondrous phenomenon persisted for ninety thousand years, appearing every dawn without fail.

Each morning, the Perfected Ones faced east and performed the "Qi Absorption" technique (a Daoist cultivation method for gathering qi) ninety times. After thirty years of such practice, their bodies became suffused with radiant qi, and three beams of light—azure, crimson, and white—erupted from the back of their necks, shooting straight into the heavens, never to fade. On the morning of the seventh day of the seventh month, after twenty thousand kalpas (a Buddhist unit denoting an immeasurably long time), the Dharma bodies of the Heavenly Venerable of Great Peace (a supreme deity in Daoism) and two sages suddenly manifested, seated serenely within the three-colored luminous qi.

At that moment, the Heavenly Venerables emitted light from their hearts—initially as faint as fireflies, but soon illuminating their entire bodies, inside and out, until the entire Palace of Southern Prosperity shone brilliantly. The Dharma body of the Heavenly Venerable of Great Peace merged with the light, becoming like the midday sun—radiant yet not blinding, and one could gaze upon it without discomfort. The Perfected Immortals felt boundless joy within this radiance; their appearances rejuvenated to that of infants, and they could stroll lightly upon the void. These miraculous transformations were all due to the power of the true light, and even after countless kalpas, the immortals maintained this state of bliss.

A thousand kalpas later, when the Dharma bodies of the Three Sages manifested again, countless Perfected Immortals appeared within the light. They gazed reverently at the Heavenly Venerables, kneeling in silence, not daring to utter a word. The Heavenly Venerables, knowing the thoughts of the immortals, bestowed upon them great wisdom and the ability of divine transformation, enabling them to alter their forms at will and comprehend the mysteries of all phenomena. Yet even then, the immortals could not fully fathom the Heavenly Venerables' boundless power to transform and save ordinary beings—how they could, in an instant, elevate mortals to the state of Dharma bodies. Such peerless might, unrivaled in heaven and earth, was truly inconceivable.

As recorded in the sixteenth chapter of the "Subjugation of Demons" section: At that time, there were also six groups of heterodox immortals, numbering eighty-four thousand in total. They were mired in sensual desires, fond of flaunting their supernatural powers in the mortal realm and engaging in contests of strength. These false immortals excelled in illusionary arts, were arrogant and conceited, and proclaimed themselves "Great Masters." Though they had attained the five supernatural powers (such as divine sight and divine hearing) and lived for eighty thousand kalpas, they never grasped the true teachings of the Dao.

In ancient times, the Celestial Worthy (the supreme deity of Daoism) descended upon the Upper Palace of Nanchang (a celestial abode), leading a host of perfected immortals astride lion mounts. After traversing six minor kalpas (an immense unit of cosmic time), they arrived at Nanchang. Among them was an immortal named Wan Dajie, who sought to witness the Celestial Worthy's divine power and challenged him to a contest of Daoist arts. The Celestial Worthy, already aware of his intentions, remained seated in stillness with the other immortals upon a dragon throne elevated seven ren (an ancient unit of measurement) above the ground.

At that moment, eighty-four thousand heterodox immortals arrived together. They gazed upon the sacred assembly without reverence, failing to recognize the title of Taiping Celestial Worthy (an honorific of the Celestial Worthy) or the hierarchy of the true immortals. These heterodox immortals attempted to ascend the high throne, yet none succeeded. Their leader, Luo Biluo, arrogantly proclaimed himself the "Master of the Three Realms" and demanded, "Who here holds the highest rank?" In response, the Celestial Worthy gestured toward the Perfected Being Zhaoling, indicating that he was the true Celestial Worthy.

Luo Biluo harshly challenged Zhaoling, "What Daoist arts do you possess?" Zhaoling replied, "I have no techniques of my own." Unconvinced, Luo Biluo retorted, "Then by what right do you occupy this high seat? I shall ascend it!" Zhaoling calmly informed him, "This is the throne of the Dao's compassion. Even with all your strength, you cannot reach it." Indeed, Luo Biluo and all the heterodox immortals found themselves rigidly standing, unable even to bend their knees, let alone sit down.

Luo Biluo then exerted his full power to recite incantations, only to see his eighty-four thousand followers tumble and fall through the air. Next, he sought to shake heaven and earth, yet his followers collapsed and rolled uncontrollably on the ground. Still unyielding, Luo Biluo challenged Zhaoling to a contest of invisibility. Out of compassion, Zhaoling agreed. When Luo Biluo asked Zhaoling to vanish first, the entire sacred assembly in the palace instantly disappeared. The eighty-four thousand heterodox immortals flew about in confusion, grasping hands in midair but finding no trace of them. When the sacred assembly reappeared, it was clear they had never moved at all.

Through this, the Perfected Being Zhaoling revealed the true Daoist arts to the heterodox immortals: not brute force or supernatural feats, but the natural manifestation of compassion and the Dao. The heterodox immortals, fixated on competition and strife, only exposed their limitations, while the true immortals, abiding in their original nature without contention or display, demonstrated a higher state of being.

The Dao Lord (a revered deity in Daoism) commanded Luobi (the Demon King) to summon all the hidden demonic hordes. Luobi immediately unleashed his full demonic power, transforming into a vast cloud of black Qi (vital energy). At this moment, the Perfected Being Zhaoling (an enlightened immortal) gently exhaled, causing all eighty thousand demons to weaken instantly, collapsing like lifeless corpses.

After a long while, the Dao Lord softly released a breath of Qi, reviving the demonic hordes. Overwhelmed with remorse, they repented and submitted to the righteous path. The Dao Lord then compassionately recited scriptures of demon-subjugation, placing eighty-four thousand heretical immortals (practitioners who have not attained the true Dao) in a state between life and death. When they finally regained consciousness, they discovered their bodies reeking of decay and immediately prostrated before the Dao Lord, asking, "What dharma method does the Celestial Worthy cultivate, that grants such divine power? How long is your lifespan?"

The Dao Lord replied, "I cultivate the Supreme Dao (the highest path of cultivation), rooted in compassion and forbearance. My body knows no death; divine power flows naturally." Then, with deep compassion, the Dao Lord questioned Luobi in turn: "What dharma method do you practice? How long can you live?"

Luobi answered, "I cultivate the Four Heavenly Mantras of the Realm of Desire (one of the three realms in Buddhism, referring to the world of cravings). One of them, called 'Wish-Fulfilling Power,' grants me a lifespan of eighty thousand great kalpas (an extremely long cosmic cycle). Yet when this lifespan ends, I must still follow my karma through rebirth. Though I have arduously cultivated the Five Supernatural Powers, I cannot escape aging and death. Though I understand the principle of emptiness, I cannot attain eternal life."

The Dao Lord, already seeing through his mind, pressed further: "Do you know the origin of your dharma method?" Luobi admitted, "This matter is lost to antiquity; its origins are untraceable."

The Dao Lord then revealed the truth: "Your method originates from the refined Qi of the Kunlun Mountains in the celestial realm. You call yourself the Lord of the Four Heavens, or the King of Immortals, the King of Spirits, using these titles to teach beings in the borderlands of the Form and Desire Realms. What you have learned is not the natural law of the Supreme Dao (the highest truth of Daoism). Mortals in the lower realms, barely grasping minor techniques, proclaim themselves immortals, leading heretical practitioners to imitate one another, ignorant of the true Dao."

Luobi then asked, "How many supreme Dao methods exist? How many ranks of immortals are there? What are the scriptures called? I have heard of the Celestial Worthy (the supreme deity), yet never seen him with my own eyes. Here, all present are addressed as Celestial Worthies, yet there are distinctions—higher Perfected Beings and lower immortals."

At this, the Perfected Being Zhaoling told Luobi: "The supreme Dao method is ultimately one, though it branches into thirty-six thousand variations, all stemming from the same Great Dao. As for the ranks of immortals..."

These one hundred twenty cultivation levels are all fundamentally based on celestial scriptures naturally formed from the cloud-seal script of the Celestial Venerables (the highest deities in Daoism).

The heavenly classic Taiping Zhenjun mentions that the Venerable of Emptiness perpetually abides in the realm of profound mystery. Yet with mortal eyes and limited spiritual penetrations, one cannot perceive the true forms of the Three Pure Ones. I have cultivated the Daoist scriptures through countless kalpas (immeasurably long cosmic cycles) before attaining the rank of Zhenren (perfected being). All practitioners gathered here are likewise superior immortals and perfected beings.

At this point, Luobi (a practitioner's name) inquired further: "The spiritual power of Zhenren is already inconceivable—how much more magnificent must the Celestial Venerables' might be?" The Zhenren replied: "This transcends your vision and comprehension. Only after tens of thousands of great kalpas will the Celestial Venerables descend to deliver sentient beings. Your lifespan of eighty thousand kalpas cannot possibly reach that time. Cease your questioning—these matters lie beyond your ken. You still carry the stench of mortality, and impermanence approaches, which would defile the celestial palaces. You must depart immediately and cannot linger."

Having no place to remain, Luobi could only return to the lower realms. He reflected on the six minor kalpas since his celestial ascent—how vigorous he had been in youth, now gradually aging with fading spiritual power and dimming awareness, trapped in dilemma. Weeping sorrowfully, he bid farewell to the Zhenren and hastily retreated to the Realm of Desire (one of the Three Realms). At Mount Kunlun, he met the King of Heterodoxy (leader of unorthodox paths) and recounted in detail his celestial experiences, including the fundamental principles and divine powers demonstrated by the Great Dao Zhenren.

Hearing this, the King of Heterodoxy experienced violent tremors in his Five Spirits (deities corresponding to the five organs), fainting and reviving repeatedly. After prolonged recovery, he warned Luobi: "Speak no more! Should other deities learn we spread such knowledge in the human realm, they would declare our Daoist arts ineffective." These heterodox immortals subsequently withdrew to southern mountains and riverbanks. During the four seasons and eight solar terms (important seasonal nodes), they would possess human bodies to sing and howl, proclaiming themselves Immortal Kings and demanding sacrificial offerings. Practicing illusionary arts, they roamed the lower realms, establishing splinter schools that distorted orthodox methods, arbitrarily creating over six hundred titles and designations.

When the Celestial Venerable of the Golden Tower descended in accordance with cosmic cycles, these heterodox immortals were utterly eradicated. The Dao Lord of Luminous Numen then addressed the assembly of Zhenren: "When these heterodox immortals first emerged, great sages like the Celestial Venerables disdained direct intervention, entrusting minor Daoists like ourselves to demonstrate spiritual power. In truth, I acted through the Great Dao's power and collective strength, not alone. Such defiled matters of heterodox paths hardly warranted attention. Yet the Supreme Dao occasionally manifests thus according to circumstance—this should not seem strange."

At that time, an immortal named Danhuo Dongzhen (Daoist name Tongxuan) rose from his seat and respectfully knelt to inquire of Zhaoling Daojun: "Might the scripture for subduing demons and evil spirits be recorded? Though I dare not presume to receive personal instruction, I earnestly desire to cultivate this method." Zhaoling Daojun replied: "Though today is an assembly of celestial beings, the transmission of scriptures cannot be decided arbitrarily—it must first be reported to the higher realms."

Two perfected beings then submitted the matter to Taiping Tianzun (one of Daoism's supreme deities). The Celestial Master decreed: "To awe the demons of the lower realms, one must first strike the golden bell thirty-six times to the left while reciting the Divine Exorcism Incantation three times." The incantation's essence is as follows:

Golden chimes tremble like lightning's blaze,

Nine Heavens' killing qi sweeps all directions.

Ten thousand demonic kinds extinguished,

A thousand monstrous breeds annihilated.

The Thunder God (Leifu) strides through empty space,

With crackling whirlwinds he beheads evil spirits.

Those who resist turn to ash and smoke,

Those who submit shall endure eternally.

The Northern Dipper's seven stars (Qixing) manifest power,

Golden-armored generals wield blades like lightning,

Jade axes carve paths through frost.

With divine troops advancing,

What specter dares obstruct?

Rebels shall meet certain calamity.

Above, purple clouds form a jeweled canopy,

Below, golden thrones stand majestic.

Sun and moon illuminate crimson heavens,

While the Lunar Toad (spirit toad of the moon palace) guards the gates.

Five poisons and wicked thoughts utterly purged,

Ten thousand demons completely vanquished.

Sevenfold authentic Qi nourishes within,

A thousand powers manifest without.

Hun and po souls return to the Purple Mansion (upper Dantian),

While true Shen takes residence in the Elixir Chamber (Neidan practice site).

The Celestial Master further explained: This is a secret incantation from the Supreme Mystery realm, capable of eradicating baleful influences and executing vile entities. However, practitioners who have not reached supreme attainment may accumulate excessive karmic consequences through misuse. When recited according to ritual, it makes evil spirits lose courage and demonic qi cease, bringing harmony to one's vital energy and peace to body-mind.

The Master added: The most profound Daoist methods originally require no incantations—they accomplish naturally. This Divine Exorcism originates from the Supreme Mystery's Void-Serene Dao-field, specifically designed to suppress portals of evil spirits. The complete ritual includes: striking the golden bell thirty-six times to the left to summon divine troops, striking the jade chime fourteen times to the right to gather perfected spirits, and beating the ritual drum twelve times in the center to reach celestial hearing. During practice, one's eyes should flash like lightning, the mouth emit numinous light, the crown manifest the seven stars, and the feet tread upon mysterious principles. Seated upon a golden dais with jade furnace smoke rising, ten thousand specters naturally perish.

Finally, the Master cautioned: Mundane practitioners without authentic transmission may use this method only to protect themselves from ghostly harm for up to 240 years. Having received these teachings, Danhuo Dongzhen reverently accepted them with joyful bows, resolving to cultivate accordingly. All immortals present at that assembly likewise obtained this precious method.

Innumerable perfected immortals (those who have achieved success in Daoist cultivation) from the Thirty-Seven Heavens bowed in unison, prostrating themselves before the Celestial Worthy (the supreme deity of Daoism) as they reverently addressed him: "Through the accumulated merit of past lives, we have been blessed to encounter your exalted presence. By your compassionate guidance, we have transcended the mundane world. Now we humbly request to remain by your side like shadows following form, that when you descend to the earthly realm in the future, we may accompany your cloud-borne chariot, serving morning and night—holding the jeweled canopy and tending the incense burners. We beseech your merciful approval." After speaking, they kowtowed again to receive his instruction.

The Celestial Worthy replied: "The Dao (the cosmic origin) treats all beings equally, and virtuous deeds naturally bear virtuous fruit. Since you have sincerely made this vow, no further words are needed. The time is not far off—after myriad kalpas (an immeasurably long period), the celestial realms will be yours to roam freely. When I descend to the human world, I will indeed require your assistance in propagating the true path and instructing sentient beings. We Three Sages will manifest separately in the Three Realms (heaven, earth, and water), and the number of beings we deliver will be beyond reckoning." Hearing the Celestial Worthy's consent, the perfected immortals rejoiced and bowed in gratitude.

The Celestial Worthy then admonished future cultivators: "Your Dao attainment remains shallow, and you have yet to fully realize the ultimate truth. First, you must undergo the 'Great Samadhi of Concentrated Spirit' (a state of profound meditative absorption) for one kalpa, until all distracting thoughts dissolve. Next, enter the 'Great Samadhi of Forgotten Form,' where even self-awareness becomes empty stillness. Then cultivate the 'Great Samadhi of Six Emptinesses,' enabling responsive transformation with all phenomena. Progress further to realize the 'Great Samadhi of Supreme Emptiness,' manifesting countless emanations. Thereafter, attain the 'Great Samadhi of Dynamic Wisdom' to become the source of all transformations, followed by the 'Great Samadhi of Generative Wisdom' that creates all things. The 'Great Samadhi of Boundless Compassion' nurtures all existence, while the ultimate 'Great Samadhi of Immeasurable Mercy' sustains the cosmos. Only by completing these eight stages may you rank among the higher perfected beings (advanced immortals), be called Later Saints (successive sages), and receive honorific titles conferred by the Dao. Those who wish to accompany me in delivering beings must cultivate until their thoughts flow freely and their creative transformations encounter no obstruction."

Having spoken, the Celestial Worthy immediately entered the unmoving "Great Samadhi of Concentrated Spirit," and the perfected immortals followed suit in meditation. When the Celestial Worthy emerged, he successively demonstrated the "Great Samadhi of Forgotten Form," "Great Samadhi of Six Emptinesses," and other deeper states of absorption—all of which the cultivators practiced in turn. This scripture reveals how Daoist practitioners, through progressively profound meditative work, ultimately attain the state of unity with the Dao.

This passage depicts the Celestial Venerable (Yuanshi Tianzun), the supreme deity of Daoism, manifesting his divine powers and spiritual states. Together with the Perfected Ones (those who have attained the Dao through cultivation), they enter various profound meditative states:

First, they collectively enter the "Great Samadhi of Supreme Emptiness" (the ultimate stillness beyond time and space), then transition into the "Dynamic Wisdom" state (a state of flowing spiritual insight), followed by the "Generative Wisdom" state (a state of vitalizing wisdom). Subsequently, they enter the "Great Compassion Samadhi" (the realm of supreme benevolence) and the "Great Mercy Samadhi" (the realm of supreme compassion). These progressively deepening meditative states illustrate the graded stages of Daoist cultivation.

When the Celestial Venerable manifests his divine powers from these states, he instantly traverses thirty-six thousand celestial realms. Within his body appears inconceivable phenomena: countless suns and moons are contained within, while thirty-six thousand Celestial Gates (pathways of spiritual practice) open. Within each gate manifest thirty-six thousand Heavenly Emperors (rulers of celestial realms), each attended by an equal number of retinue members seated upon dragon thrones, with jeweled canopies covering the entire Dharma realm.

Then miraculous transformations occur throughout heaven and earth: dry bones revive into living beings, the elderly regain youth, white hair turns black again, new teeth grow, internal organs regain vitality, and ears and eyes become keen. Sweet dew descends from heaven to nourish all things, while ambrosia and jade marrow (immortal elixirs) flow freely, with celestial music resounding through the void. Star palaces and cloud dwellings (immortal abodes) appear in the sky, where purple auroras and golden radiance interweave. The bright moon illuminates immortal vessels made of white jade and golden essence, attended by True Rulers (high-ranking celestial officials) and immortal youths.

Through hyperbolic numerical symbolism and wondrous imagery, this scripture symbolically expresses the Daoist cosmological view of "a single body containing the entire universe" at the highest stages of cultivation, as well as the ultimate ideal of "the unity of heaven and humanity."

At that time, the Celestial Venerable (the supreme deity of Daoism) sat together with various Perfected Ones who had attained the Dao in a cloud chamber. They were seated upon dragon-shaped thrones, surrounded by the songs of phoenixes and the chants of coiling dragons. In the courtyard, celestial birds danced, displaying countless divine transformations—all phenomena manifesting according to their will.

The Perfected Ones marveled, saying they had never witnessed such a spectacle. The Celestial Venerable then explained to them: "The highest and most profound Daoist methods involve boundless divine transformations without attachment to the mind, for when the heart-mind is settled and wisdom is unobstructed, one reaches the state of 'no-mind' (wuxin). Thus, without deliberate pursuit, attainment comes naturally; without forced wisdom, enlightenment arises spontaneously. To strive forcefully is to fail—this state is exquisitely subtle and ineffable. When you cultivate to the stage of great penetration in the future, you will naturally understand."

The Perfected Ones rose together and bowed, vowing to remember these essential teachings. The Celestial Venerable continued: "These divine transformations and meditative insights are actually necessary stages of Daoist cultivation, as well as the principles by which one aligns with celestial destiny and delivers sentient beings."

Seeing that the Perfected Ones possessed pure bodies and minds, as well as vast wisdom sufficient to shoulder great responsibility, the Celestial Venerable led them in ascension to the Great Brahma Heaven (the highest Daoist celestial realm) to pay homage to the Venerable of Emptiness and Non-Being. The Venerable of Emptiness proclaimed: "Your cultivation has reached its pinnacle—you shall now be granted the exalted rank of 'Upper Perfected.'" Each Perfected One received a jade casket and azure tablets inscribed with their sacred titles (Daoist ritual documents), and all bowed in reverence.

After the ceremony, the Perfected Ones returned to the cloud chamber of the Southern Chang Palace, where they celebrated for seven days and nights. Fragrant flowers descended from the heavens, the thirty-three celestial realms trembled in response, and new mountains emerged in the human world as an echo of this cosmic resonance. At the moment of Heaven and Earth's harmony, the Three Venerables of Great Peace (the three supreme deities) entered profound stillness in deep samadhi (the highest meditative absorption) alongside the Perfected Ones. The entire celestial palace fell into silence, with only the incense-bearing messengers circulating fragrant smoke.

After the passing of a kalpa (an immeasurably long cosmic cycle), the Celestial Venerable emerged from meditation. In an instant, divine mist spread, warm breezes arose, and sweet dew descended from the heavens. Then, all phenomena renewed themselves—clouds surged, thunder rolled, immortal plants blossomed, phoenixes sang in the jade groves, and radiant light flowed in shifting hues. The Celestial Venerable revealed to the Perfected Ones: "This state of dynamic generation..."

This passage depicts a sacred moment from the Taishang Dadao Yuqing Jing (Jade Purity Scripture of the Supreme Great Dao). It records a Daoist prophecy that the Sage of the Golden Portal (referring to the celestial palace) will soon descend to the human realm—the time is not far off. When this occurs, numerous sages from the Ten Directions (a Buddhist and Daoist concept denoting all realms of existence) will simultaneously manifest auspicious signs; it will not be solely the Celestial Worthy (Tianzun) who reveals himself.

After the Celestial Worthy spoke these words, all the assembled sages entered a state of profound stillness, sitting upright with body and mind perfectly unmoving. The golden censers burned uninterrupted incense, while the fragrance of fresh flowers lingered intensely. When the sages descend, they will display countless miraculous transformations. On that day, the world will witness exceedingly rare divine power, with all wonders manifesting visibly before humanity.

This excerpt from the sixth scroll of the Yuqing Jing portrays the solemn scene of divine descent in Daoist belief, embodying the tradition's profound understanding of sacred revelation and cosmic principles. The phrase "perfectly unmoving" (ningran budong) reflects the crucial meditative state of mental tranquility in Daoist cultivation, while "golden censers and floral offerings" represent standard ritual objects in Daoist ceremonies.