《元始上帝毘盧遮耶說大洞救劫尊經》

Interpretation of the "Yuanshi Shangdi Piluzheya's Scripture of the Great Cavern for Salvation from Kalpas"

At that time, the Supreme Yuanshi Tianbao (one of the highest deities in Daoism) was seated in the Violet Ultimate Jade Heaven Hall within the Jade Loft of Yu Luo Xiao Terrace, surrounded by a host of celestial beings and myriad immortals standing in reverent attendance. The Supreme One emitted a radiant divine light, and by its illuminating wisdom, all the assembled immortals clearly perceived the kalpas (cosmic calamities) afflicting the mortal world, yet none dared to speak or inquire.

With a sigh, the Supreme One said, "The kalpas of the mundane world follow one after another without end, yet those who transcend them are few. Such relentless suffering is truly pitiable." At this, the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance (a celestial maiden) stepped forward from the ranks of immortals, knelt, and respectfully asked, "What kalpas grieve the Supreme One so?"

The Tianbao Sovereign replied, "You, who attend the celestial banquets daily, have escaped the sea of suffering and entered this sacred realm. You do not yet understand the afflictions of the mortal world. Were you to see the endless torment within these kalpas, you would rejoice all the more that your liberation was no accident. Now, by my divine light, ascend the Lapis Lazuli Terrace and behold."

Obeying the command, the Jade Maiden ascended the terrace and gazed below the heavens. There, she saw eight figures standing upon an axle, each positioned in one of the eight directions. The axle turned steadily, neither too fast nor too slow, and those standing upon it rotated with it. After observing for some time without grasping its meaning, the maiden returned to the Tianbao Sovereign’s throne to report what she had seen.

The Supreme One explained: "This is the Kalpa of Samsara, the foremost calamity of the mortal world. Like an unceasingly turning axle, this kalpa never stops. The eight figures represent poverty and lowliness, wealth and nobility, longevity, premature death, toil, ease, and all other conditions of mortal existence. Beings revolve within this cycle, transmigrating life after life."

Hearing this, the Jade Maiden was enlightened. She bowed again and asked, "Can this kalpa be overcome?" The Sovereign answered, "It can. I shall decree that the immortals perform the Keyi (Daoist rituals), widely disseminate the teachings, and awaken the deluded. Those who attain realization must guard the root of their spiritual nature and embark on the path of immortality—only then can they transcend this kalpa." The maiden replied gratefully, "If the sacred grace opens the path to awakening, it will be a supreme merit."

Thereupon, the Supreme One began to expound the scripture of the Great Cavern for Salvation from Kalpas. This passage primarily reveals the nature of the Kalpa of Samsara: beings endlessly revolve among the eight conditions of poverty, wealth, longevity, and untimely death. Only through cultivating truth and awakening to the Dao can one break free.

This scripture depicts the scene where the Primordial Celestial Sovereign (the supreme deity in Daoism) expounds on the "Sandalwood Kalpa" (a type of cosmic calamity). It begins with a poetic description of sentient beings' suffering in the cycle of rebirth: The cosmos is boundless in its primordial chaos, seemingly dark yet concealing illumination. Humans drown in the sea of suffering due to their attachments and desires—only through transcendence can they attain liberation. The endless cycle of life and death continues until one awakens to true perception, achieving the carefree state of Xiaoyao (unfettered freedom). Cultivating the state of neither birth nor extinction allows one to transcend worldly existence like a lotus flower floating above the mud.

Next, the Primordial Celestial Sovereign transmits a secret mantra (a spiritually empowered incantation): "Dulu dulu, hong hong li, liberate from worldly suffering..." This mantra is intended to help beings break free from their afflictions.

The second chapter describes how the Primordial Celestial Sovereign commands the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance (a celestial immortal) to observe the suffering of the human realm during this kalpa. The maiden witnesses a city-gate-like passage through which countless boys and girls ceaselessly pass, driven by divine officials and ghostly attendants. The Primordial Celestial Sovereign explains that this is the "Sandalwood Kalpa": due to their accumulated misdeeds, the deceased first transform into "intermediate beings" (a state between ghosts and animals), enduring numerous brief lives (dying at ages three, six, nine, or even younger). They suffer from diseases like smallpox, rashes, convulsions, and sudden infant death, sometimes cycling through life and death tens of thousands of times in a single day.

The Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance inquires whether salvation is possible. The Primordial Celestial Sovereign responds by commissioning the Great Emperor of Longevity (a deity governing lifespan) to sprinkle the elixir of immortality—Peach Blossom Nectar—across the human realm, extending lives and preventing premature death. Finally, the Primordial Celestial Sovereign begins expounding the "Great Cavern Scripture" (an advanced sacred text) as the means to resolve this kalpa. This scripture primarily elucidates the principles of karmic retribution and the path to redemption.

This scripture describes how the Primordial Heavenly Sovereign (the supreme deity in Daoism) reveals to the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance (a Daoist immortal maiden) the vision of humanity's killing calamity and imparts methods for deliverance.

The opening employs metaphors to portray worldly illusions: "How illusory are those bubbles floating upon water, how fleeting these vanishing reflections. Lives as brief as mayflies stand in stark contrast to the eternal majesty of mountain peaks." It then depicts celestial realms where immortals ride divine beasts to ascend the Platform of Chaotic Origin (a sacred site of Daoist cultivation), attaining harmony between Yin and Yang through spiritual practice.

The Primordial Heavenly Sovereign then recites a secret incantation: "Dhara dhara, upara..." This mantra possesses the power to subdue demonic hordes, forming a crucial part of the third chapter, "The Great Cavern's Deliverance from the Killing Calamity."

Commanded to observe the mortal world, the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance witnesses "black mists spreading wildly, howling winds of gloom," and sees a green-faced, crimson-haired demonic entity wreaking havoc across the land. Wherever it passes, human presence vanishes, leaving only the mournful cries of animals in its wake. The Primordial Heavenly Sovereign explains this as the "killing calamity"—a cyclical catastrophe recurring every three hundred years, triggered when humanity violates loyalty and filial piety and indulges in unrestrained desires. Seizing this opportunity, demon kings descend, bringing widespread slaughter—the most devastating of all calamities.

Finally, the Primordial Heavenly Sovereign declares deliverance possible, promising to dispatch the Compassionate Lord of Great Unity (the Savior from Suffering) riding a blue lion into the mortal realm. Wielding a wish-fulfilling jewel, he will subdue the demonic forces and purify the world. This passage exemplifies Daoist concepts of cyclical calamities (jieyun) and the doctrine of divine salvation.

This scripture describes the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (the supreme deity in Daoism) expounding on the visions of the water kalpa and its deliverance methods in the fourth chapter of the "Great Cavern Scripture for Kalpa Deliverance."

The opening verses convey:

When heaven and earth regain their clarity,

Divine banners can subdue the violent.

The cosmos was originally in a state of emptiness,

Where all beings moved in natural harmony.

But when kalpic cycles reach their extreme,

All eight directions tremble in upheaval.

Demonic disturbances don't originate externally—

Disasters stem from human actions themselves.

Then the Celestial Worthy recites an esoteric mantra (spells with spiritual power):

"Xili xili, create no calamities,

And calamities shall vanish of themselves.

Om (Buddhist mantra), hong hong li (demon-subduing sounds),

Mazhiya (name of a Dharma protector),

Mojieya (name of a bodhisattva),

Xide xide (subjugation sounds),

Obey my divine command."

Next describes the Luminous Jade Maiden (goddess of light) observing the mortal realm by decree, witnessing:

Blue mists spreading across the land,

White vapors blanketing the plains.

Creatures half-dragon and half-serpent,

Part human and part swine,

Rampaging to shake mountains and earth,

While tempests rage violently.

The Celestial Worthy explains this as the "water kalpa":

Water both nurtures and destroys life.

Every 120 years brings a major kalpa,

With minor disasters every 66 years.

When kalpic cycles arrive, water deities unleash their power—

Rivers surge like worshippers bowing to seas,

Toppling hills and drowning dwellings.

People drift like duckweed,

Corpses and livestock scattered everywhere.

The Luminous Jade Maiden inquires whether deliverance from this calamity is possible.

(This passage depicts the water kalpa's manifestations, with subsequent sections presumably detailing deliverance methods.)

The Supreme Celestial Worthy (the highest deity in Daoism) declared: "Very well, I now command the Water Official of the Cavernous Yin (the deity governing water realms) to subdue the aquatic demons, cleanse the river channels, and calm the turbulent waves, restoring peace to this region."

Then the Celestial Worthy began reciting passages from the Great Cavern Scripture:

"What is the true meaning of 'Heaven generates water'? It flows ceaselessly, nourishing the entire cosmos. Tranquil detachment is no vice—only placid waters allow people to dwell in security. Great waters irrigate realms beyond heaven and earth, while small streams moisten every alleyway. The Northern Capital (referring to the underworld) heeds my command—who dares transgress at dawn? Let the flooding waters return to clarity, and the raging waves be pacified."

After the scripture recitation, the Celestial Worthy chanted a secret incantation: "Tuo tuo tuo tuo, as countless as Ganges' sands, become no demons. Duo luo hong chi luo, duo luo hong chi luo, om, hong zha, hong zha li." (This is an esoteric Daoist spell for exorcising calamities.)

This constitutes Chapter Five of the Great Cavern Scripture on Delivering from Fire Calamities.

Having completed the mantra, the Celestial Worthy summoned the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance (a celestial maiden bearing luminous ritual implements), saying: "You already know of this calamity. Now ride upon my divine light to ascend the observation platform once more." Obeying the command, the Jade Maiden ascended the Heaven-Watching Terrace and witnessed ominous phenomena below: crimson rats scurrying wildly through cities, flying bells resonating incessantly, scarlet flames billowing, and mountains glowing red. A blazing crimson fireball rolled unpredictably while the people panicked, disturbing even chickens and dogs. The fireball resembled both sun and star, defying comprehension. After prolonged observation yielded no answers, the maiden returned to report to the Celestial Worthy.

Kneeling before the throne, she addressed: "By your decree I observed the mortal realm—I saw crimson fireballs and rats darting everywhere, unconquerable flames, and people wailing to the heavens. What phenomenon is this?"

The Celestial Worthy replied: "This is a kalpic calamity." When the maiden inquired "What manner of calamity?", he explained: "This is the fire calamity. When the Firebird constellation (one of the twenty-eight lunar mansions) aligns in specific positions, the Fire Deity Huilu (controller of flames) metes out punishments according to human transgressions. The deity demarcates territories, raises crimson banners, and fans infernos. Whether contiguous houses, adjacent neighborhoods, or cloud-piercing temples and pagodas—all are devoured by flames in moments, plains transformed into seas of fire where neither man nor beast may escape."

This scripture describes how the divine being Yeguang sought guidance from the Supreme Venerable (Primordial Heavenly Sovereign Vairocana) on delivering beings from calamity. Here's the vernacular interpretation:

Yeguang inquired of the Supreme Venerable: "Can this calamity be averted?"

The Supreme Venerable replied: "It can. I shall command Changyang Fanbao (a Daoist guardian deity) to restrain the fire demons and subdue the flame spirits, preventing their rampant destruction. I will send down sweet dew, strictly enforce divine law, and shower blessings upon the Central Plains to pacify all directions."

Then the Supreme Venerable recited a passage from the Great Cavern Scripture (Dadong Zhang):

"Threefold Qi erupts in radiant light,

Majestic spiritual power none can withstand.

Summoning winds and rains in swirling dance,

Spreading cooling nectar to dispel disasters.

The Fire God Zhurong pities suffering,

Dragon deities return to their abodes.

Ten thousand malevolent spirits and cunning beings

All withdraw and follow divine guidance.

Opening a pure Daoist sanctuary,

Paving a flame-free path of brilliant light."

After this recitation, the Supreme Venerable pronounced secret incantations:

"Savar savar luminous stūpa, cannot slay (evil-suppressing mantra)...

Huli huli li, huto huli li...

Om mali mali calming spirit covenant (soul-pacifying mantra)...

Xili atoli..."

This constitutes Chapter Six of the Great Cavern Scripture for Delivering from Pestilential Calamities.

Having completed the mantras, the Supreme Venerable addressed the Jade Maiden Yeguang: "Having understood this calamity, now ride my divine light to ascend the Dharma platform for further observation." Yeguang obeyed and ascended, where she saw beneath a coiled canopy-like tree a water vessel containing green liquid. Countless ghostly attendants carried pots, urns, basins, and measures, continuously transporting the vessel's contents. After prolonged observation without comprehension, Yeguang returned to report these visions before the Heavenly Treasure altar.

The Supreme Venerable explained: "This represents the pestilential calamity. When years turn unfavorable—whether through consecutive famines, scorching droughts, or unrelenting floods—these imbalanced Qi accumulations manifest as epidemics. The people below lack sufficient virtue to reach heaven's ears, while their transgressions multiply to summon disaster."

(Note: "Zhurong" refers to the Chinese mythological fire god; "dragon deities" govern rainfall; "threefold Qi" denotes the Daoist triad of heaven, earth, and human energies; the "Great Cavern Scripture" is a key Daoist classic; "secret mantras" possess mystical power.)

This scripture describes a spreading calamity and the salvation method of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, the supreme deity in Daoism):

The disaster spreads from one person to millions, from one household to countless families. Even livestock cannot escape the epidemic's toxic Qi, presenting a truly tragic scene. The Jade Maiden of Luminous Night (a celestial attendant serving the Celestial Worthy) inquires whether this tribulation can be alleviated.

The Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning responds affirmatively, declaring he will command the Divine King of the Vast Heaven (a deity governing celestial realms) to wield his sacred sword, dispel malignant energies, expel plague demons, eliminate misfortunes, and guide all beings to ascend the Terrace of Benevolent Longevity. Then the Celestial Worthy recites the "Great Cavern Chapter" scripture, whose essence conveys:

• Divine radiance illuminates the earth universally
• All turbid Qi is swept away
• Auspicious energies coalesce into myriad-layered clouds of blessing
• The Golden Elixir (Jindan, supreme treasure of Daoist cultivation) held in hand disperses as five-colored auspicious light
• The luminous Dao illuminates the Three Realms

Subsequently, the Celestial Worthy chants an esoteric exorcism mantra (the syllables "Su tu su tu" represent special Daoist incantations for dispelling evil). This section is titled "The Seventh Chapter on Salvation from Thunder Tribulations in the Great Cavern."

After completing the mantra, the Celestial Worthy instructs the Jade Maiden to ascend a high platform for observation. She witnesses:

• Crimson ropes glittering across the land
• Resonant drumbeats reverberating
• Banners planted in all eight directions
• Axle hubs scattered throughout the Nine Earths
• Countless men, women, and livestock marked with banners, trembling in terror
• People losing hair, their skin ulcerated, appearing intoxicated and mentally confused

The Jade Maiden asks what tribulation this represents, to which the Celestial Worthy tersely replies: "This is the tribulation." When she presses further—"What tribulation is this?"—the text abruptly breaks off.

The Supreme Celestial Worthy (the highest deity in Daoism) proclaimed: This is the sign of the Thunder Tribulation. Just as human laws govern earthly punishments, so too does the Dao of Heaven administer celestial retribution. Those who evade worldly justice cannot escape Heaven's judgment. All who in past lives committed the Five Heinous Crimes (patricide, matricide, etc.) or Ten Evils (ten grave offenses) — even if they escaped human law — will inevitably face Heaven's execution. Neither kings nor generals receive special pardon from celestial justice. These individuals, burdened by heavy karmic debts from previous existences, cannot avoid this calamity.

The Luminous Jade Maiden (an immortal attendant of the Celestial Worthy) respectfully inquired: May I ask the Celestial Worthy, is there deliverance from this tribulation?

The Celestial Worthy replied: There is. I shall command the Thunder Ancestor of the Nine Heavens (the deity governing thunder) to manifest wisdom-power. With pure, undefiled original mind, we shall make great vows and join Thunder Marshal Haoweng (a thunder deity) in revealing the mysteries of the Jade Pivot Precious Scripture to relieve the suffering of mortal beings. I will dispatch envoys from the Five Directions and Eight Directions to heed commands and jointly cultivate compassion.

Thereupon, the Celestial Worthy began expounding Chapter Eight of the Great Cavern Scripture of Salvation from Calamities:

Heaven and Earth divide through opening and closing,

Separating into Yin and Yang.

The two Qi of Yin and Yang intertwine and merge.

The Wood Department generals of the East cease their pursuit,

The Earth Department goddess of the Center withdraws interference.

Mountains and rivers appear in perfect stillness,

No need for dragon-tiger exertions.

Eternal harmonious winds pervade the four quarters,

Jade candles of auspiciousness shine perpetually.

Heaven and Earth move in natural order,

The sea of wisdom calms its raging waves.

After delivering the scripture, the Celestial Worthy pronounced this secret mantra:

Bami bami,

Saputi,

Xiliyi,

Xiliyi,

Om,

Hongchi,

Hong,

Chi,

Puti,

Xiyixiyi,

Yedi.

This constitutes the content of Chapter Eight of the Great Cavern Scripture of Salvation from Calamities.

Having recited the mantra, the Celestial Worthy immediately summoned the Luminous Jade Maiden: "Having understood this tribulation, now ascend the platform once more to observe by my divine light." Obediently, the maiden ascended and beheld two massive boulders facing each other, each containing a cavern from which dark bluish Qi continuously rose. Eight-directional banners fluttered in formation, and amidst their tremulous movements, she discerned coiling dragons and crouching tigers. Suddenly, a thunderous roar erupted from one side, scattering people in panic. The Luminous Jade Maiden gazed intently but could not fathom the mystery, whereupon she returned to report to the Celestial Worthy.

The Celestial Treasure (a revered Daoist deity) respectfully addressed before the hall: "By your command I investigated and found two stone caverns standing in opposition, from which malignant Qi surges forth, disturbing all living beings and shaking the eight directions. What is the cause of this?"

The Supreme Celestial Worthy replied: "This is a kalpic calamity." Celestial Treasure inquired: "What manner of calamity?"

The Celestial Worthy explained: "This is the Wind Calamity. When winds are harmonious, they bring auspiciousness; when winds turn aberrant, they become disasters. The Ji Constellation (one of the twenty-eight lunar mansions) governs winds, commanded by the Wind Deity. Between heaven and earth exist two great valleys that alternately generate winds. Gentle winds sustain all beings in tranquility, while violent winds bring devastation. The winds' origins vary unpredictably. All this stems from the world's perilous paths and humanity's shallow conduct - virtuous deeds insufficient to move heaven, thus inviting calamity upon themselves. Magnificent palaces may vanish in an instant, neighbors sharing wells may scatter overnight, ships capsize and carriages overturn, countless lives disappearing without trace."

Jade Maiden Ye Guang petitioned: "Might this calamity be averted?"

The Celestial Worthy responded: "It may. I shall command Yuanhuang of Zitong (the Imperial Lord of Culture) to employ the Culture Brush, with the Southern Dipper's Chief Star suppressing the winds. Dragons shall not roar at will, nor tigers growl arbitrarily. Maidens shall dwell peacefully in forests, while the Ji Constellation maintains vitality within dwellings. Thus branches won't rattle without cause, nor dust swirl without reason."

Then the Celestial Worthy proclaimed the ninth chapter mantra from the Great Cavern Scripture for Deliverance from Calamities:

"Hē xī have their sovereign,

Xū hū follow their courses.

Nine transformations dissolve disaster's form,

Seven restraints wield vajra power.

Harmonious winds move by cosmic order,

Heaven's canopy stands majestic.

Time's cycles never err,

Post-horses gallop full circuits.

Restrain flood-dragons, control horned serpents,

All arranged in perpetual constancy."

After reciting the mantra, the Celestial Worthy transmitted this secret incantation:

"Pú lú pú lú,

Draw no bow nor crossbow,

Self-contained within the gourd.

Oṃ maṇi padme hūṃ,

Gé là,

Gé là sū,

Oṃ,

Hūṃ hūṃ mo."

Finally, the Celestial Worthy summoned Jade Maiden Ye Guang: "Having understood this calamity, now ascend the dharma platform upon my divine light."

(This scripture passage illustrates Daoist understanding of wind calamities and their resolution through divine intervention, sacred mantras, and esoteric spells. Featuring important deities like the Imperial Lord of Culture and the Southern Dipper, along with references to "nine transformations" and "seven restraints" from internal cultivation practice, it exemplifies Daoism's religious function in disaster mitigation.)

This scripture describes a terrifying hailstorm calamity and how the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, the supreme deity in Daoism) delivers sentient beings from disaster:

The Night Radiance Messenger (a Daoist celestial being), while inspecting the mortal realm on divine orders, witnessed a strange phenomenon: massive chunks of ice—resembling stone yet not stone—were falling from the sky, some as large as bowls and others like millstones. Accompanied by thunder, lightning, wind, and rain, these ice blocks demolished villages, harmed people and livestock, and even afflicted birds and beasts. The messenger hurried back to report to the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning.

The Celestial Worthy explained: "This is the 'Hail Tribulation'—a punishment from Heaven caused by the accumulation of yin qi (阴气) in the northern regions over millennia, compounded by the wicked deeds of local inhabitants. The frigid ice of the north transforms into hailstones, destroying everything in their path—humans, animals, and crops alike—wreaking greater havoc than lightning strikes."

When the Night Radiance Messenger inquired about possible deliverance, the Celestial Worthy affirmed it could be done. He commanded the Jade Void's True Martial Emperor (Zhenwu Dadi, the northern guardian deity) to lead celestial troops, raising the Seven-Star Banner to mobilize the powers of water and fire to dispel the calamitous demons. Then, the Celestial Worthy recited salvific verses and esoteric incantations from the Great Cavern Scripture (Dadong Jing):

The scripture's essence declares: "Yin qi blocks the gates, obscuring the true path. Yet above shines the Divine Platform of Light, circulating primordial qi (真气), with two divine lords safeguarding the celestial pivot. Behold the cooling nectar of dew, descending in abundance upon the jade steps."

The secret incantation goes: "Tuo tuo, heng sha he, xi zai mo, om, ba li hong, mo suo hong, namo ba li hong, namo ba li hong" (These mantra syllables, transliterated from Sanskrit, represent powerful phrases for exorcising evil and averting disasters).

(Note: The "Generals of Kan and Li" refer to the water and fire commanders; "Taiwei" denotes a crucial celestial domain; the term "[口曩]謨" in the mantra corresponds to "namo," meaning "taking refuge.")

Chapter Ten of the Dadong Jiu Xian Jie Jing (Great Cavern Scripture on Delivering from the Cataclysmic Calamity) records:

After reciting the sacred incantation, the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, the supreme deity of Daoism) addressed the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance (Yeguang Yunü, the immortal maiden who governs light), saying: "Having witnessed this calamity, you shall now ride upon my divine light and ascend the high platform once more to observe the scene below."

The Jade Maiden obeyed and climbed the platform again. She beheld a vast, flourishing land below—cities bustling with life, countless lanterns aglow, and dense human settlements. Yet suddenly, the earth split open several zhang deep, and the surrounding regions collapsed in an instant. All traces of civilization vanished, leaving only a massive abyss and churning white waves of floodwaters.

After observing for a long while but still unable to comprehend, the Jade Maiden returned to the Hall of Celestial Treasures (Tianbao Dian) and reported to the Celestial Worthy: "When I followed your command to inspect the land, I clearly saw an expansive territory and thriving cities. Yet in a flash, everything collapsed into nothingness—land turned to ocean, hills transformed. Why is this so?"

The Celestial Worthy explained: "This is the calamity of earth-sinking (dixian zhi jie). The great earth is composed of water and soil, sustained and enveloped by the 'Qi of Singular Serenity' (yi ning zhi qi, the energy that stabilizes the earth). If, within its three-hundred-year cycle, this Qi is not replenished, unstable regions will collapse, and those caught in this calamity will suffer."

The Jade Maiden asked whether salvation was possible. The Celestial Worthy affirmed that it was and immediately commanded the Earth Official of Purity and Emptiness (Qingxu Diguan, the divine official governing the earth) to mobilize the Seven Primordial Qi (qi zhong yuanqi) to deliver beings from the Three Wretched Realms (san e dao). He then ordered the Giant Turtle (ju gui) to steady the Earth’s Axis (di zhou), ensuring the Five Sacred Peaks (wuyue) stood firm and the four directions stabilized.

Thereafter, the Celestial Worthy transmitted the true words (zhenyan) of the Dadong Zhang (Great Cavern Chapter):

The great earth bears the myriad beings,

The Northwestern Heavenly Gate stands most secure.

When azure radiance shines upon it,

It illuminates the path of liberation for all.

Stabilizing the world, protecting life,

The Divine Turtle shall turn no more.

Above and below attain eternal peace,

For this is the place of primordial origin.

The Primordial Sovereign (Yuanjun, referring to the Celestial Worthy) spreads harmonious winds,

Filling the mortal realm with fragrant blossoms and sweet dew.

He then imparted the esoteric incantation (mizhou): "A na a na, cui qi duo, sha fu he, duo luo duo luo, po yu na luo" (a mantra with the power to stabilize the earth and pacify the land).

This passage primarily describes how the Celestial Worthy employs divine power to resolve the earth-sinking calamity, emphasizing that sacred forces can uphold the stability of heaven and earth.

This scripture depicts the Supreme Divine Sovereign (Primordial Heavenly Lord Vairocana) performing the Great Cavern Salvation Ritual to deliver sentient beings:

It begins with the mystical incantation "Om Hum Jah Hum Jah Xiu Tu He Duo Luo Duo Luo Hum Hum Hum"—a sacred mantra commonly used in Daoist practice.

After reciting the mantra, the Sovereign summons the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance (a celestial maiden in Daoism) to ascend the ritual platform and observe the calamities befalling humanity. The Jade Maiden witnesses two colossal figures: one with a black face and red hair, another with a blue face and red hair, brandishing weapons as they herd countless common folk like livestock into deep pits, subsequently burying them under mounds of earth to form grave hills.

Reporting these harrowing sights to the Sovereign, the Jade Maiden inquires about their meaning. The Sovereign explains this as the "Pit Calamity"—when demonic forces reign supreme, employing various means to deceive and drive doomed soldiers and civilians into these traps. Though their bodies remain intact, they are effectively buried alive.

When the Jade Maiden asks whether deliverance is possible, the Sovereign affirms that the Omniscient Savior (a Daoist deity) will be dispatched to dissolve karmic entanglements with willow-branch water (sacred purifying liquid), liberating sufferers from their sea of bitterness.

Finally, the Sovereign proclaims the essential teachings of the Great Cavern Salvation Scripture:

1. Return demonic forces to their original abodes

2. Guide common folk to ascend to Zhuling Paradise (Daoist celestial realm)

3. Open Dharma-realm passages with compassionate heart

4. Halt the continued spread of evil

5. All beings originally dwell in the void Dao-realm

6. Joy can naturally be sought within

7. Resolve grievances and karmic obstacles

8. Let the Great Dharma flow spontaneously

This passage manifests the core Daoist concept of "delivering beings from calamity," employing divine power to rescue those trapped in apocalyptic suffering, enabling their liberation from bitter circumstances and return to the natural state of Dao's flow.

This scripture describes how the Primordial Celestial Sovereign (Yuanshi Shangdi, the supreme Daoist deity) observed the kalpic calamities of the mortal realm through the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance (Yeguang Yunü, a celestial immortal maiden) and transmitted methods for salvation:

The Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance, obeying the command of the Primordial Celestial Sovereign, ascended a high platform to survey the human world. She witnessed multitudes of men and women crowding upon mountain peaks in chaotic revelry, when suddenly thunderous roars shook the heavens, causing the crowds to plummet like raindrops. Upon her report, the Sovereign revealed this to be the "Collapsing Kalpa" (Qingjie) - a cataclysmic mountain collapse recurring every three hundred sixty cosmic cycles (an immense temporal unit).

The Primordial Sovereign explained that such disasters befall those who foolishly seek pleasure on dangerous heights instead of avoiding calamity. He resolved to dispatch the Yellow Elderly Lord of the Earthly Palace (Huang Laojun, deity governing terrestrial stability), wielding the Sword of Sovereign Dominion (a sacred implement safeguarding mountains and rivers), to pacify the peaks and protect the people.

The Sovereign then transmitted the salvific formulas and esoteric methods from the Great Cavern Scripture for Kalpic Salvation (Dadong Jiujie Jing):

1. Commanding mountain crags with mysterious power

2. Guarding with five directional azure peaks

3. Harmonizing Yin-Yang without flaw

4. Establishing peace above and below

5. Stationing the divine sword in eight directions

6. Paying homage to the Sacred Mother of Turtle Numen (earth divinity)

7. Abiding in the stillness of empty space

8. Witnessing celestial immortals' spontaneous dance

9. Summoning the Yellow Primordial (earth virtue Qi) in the yang realm

10. Connecting with Divine Martiality (protective force) in the yin realm

Finally, the Sovereign proclaimed secret mantras (partially preserved as Sanskrit-inspired true sounds in the scripture), completing this comprehensive method for stabilizing heaven and earth to resolve mountain-splitting disasters. The passage embodies the Daoist cosmology of "heaven-human resonance," demonstrating how deities regulate natural order and deliver sentient beings through scriptural incantations and ritual methods.

This scripture depicts a mystical scene of the "Great Calamity" (覆劫, fujie) and its corresponding salvation method. The opening syllables like "Yipo Yipo" are Daoist esoteric incantations (mantras with spiritual power), typically used in rituals to invoke divine forces.

The text describes how the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (元始天尊, Yuanshi Tianzun—the supreme deity in Daoism), after reciting the incantation, summons the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance (夜光玉女, Yeguang Yunü, a goddess who governs light) to ascend a high platform and observe. She witnesses magnificent jade towers and city walls suddenly shrouded in black Qi (炁, vital energy) before collapsing with a thunderous roar, burying all passersby—whether virtuous or wicked. The Jade Maiden reports this tragic scene to the Celestial Worthy, seeking an explanation.

The Celestial Worthy clarifies that this is the "Great Calamity"—all things follow their destined cycles of flourishing and decline, just as mountains inevitably crumble and city walls cannot remain eternally steadfast. In this calamity, a destined group of men and women must endure the "Earthly Annihilation" (地灭, dimie—a cataclysmic earthly tribulation), as if driven by invisible forces with no means of escape.

When the Jade Maiden inquires whether salvation is possible, the Celestial Worthy affirms it. He commands the Azure Spirit of the Wood Palace (木宫青灵, Mugong Qingling, a deity governing trees) to rescue sentient beings using a colossal azure divine banner, enabling those trapped in the mire to escape suffering.

The Celestial Worthy then transmits the salvific verses from the Great Cavern Scripture (《大洞章》, Dadong Zhang), which convey:

The gates of heaven remain ever open;

The doors of hell shall not stay closed forever.

Those who enter may not be defiled,

While those who emerge naturally attain purity.

With serene focus, observe the five-colored auspicious clouds

And the numinous light of the Seven Stars (七辰, Qichen, the Big Dipper).

Let wisdom illuminate the celestial realms,

As sacred winds caress the Violet Court (紫庭, Ziting—abode of immortals).

The age of Great Peace will surely arrive,

With radiant light from the Jade Pool (瑶池, Yaochi) shining upon the Nine Stars.

Finally, the Celestial Worthy proclaims another segment of secret incantations (partially omitted in the text). This scripture primarily conveys the idea that while calamities are predestined, compassionate salvation remains possible—emphasizing that through cultivation and divine power, one may transcend tribulation.

This scripture describes how the Primordial Celestial Sovereign (the supreme deity in Daoism) manifests divine power through the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance (a celestial female immortal) to deliver beings from the calamities of war. Here's an interpretation of the incantations and core content:

The opening mantra "Mipo mipo" and similar phrases are esoteric Daoist dhāraṇī derived from Sanskrit transliterations, possessing special spiritual efficacy that doesn't require literal translation.

The main narrative unfolds as follows: After reciting the Supreme Mantra, the Primordial Celestial Sovereign summons the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance to ascend the ritual platform to observe the human realm. The maiden witnesses two armies engaged in battle, with soldiers raising spears and shields to charge, when suddenly they're struck down by thunderous explosions—the lightly wounded suffer burns while the severely afflicted are reduced to ashes.

Reporting this vision to the Sovereign, she learns this is the "Cataclysm of Fire" (disasters caused by gunpowder weapons). Since the Qin and Han dynasties, humanity has increasingly employed fire-based warfare tactics, inventing cannons and firearms—weapons of inevitable destruction. These fallen soldiers bear the karmic consequences of grave misdeeds from past lives, destined to endure this tribulation.

When the Jade Maiden inquires about possible deliverance, the Sovereign responds affirmatively. He commands the Golden Palace's Luminous Elder of White Radiance (a Daoist immortal) to fetch sacred water from the Jade Pool to purify the deceased souls, restoring cool tranquility to the world. Finally, the Sovereign proclaims the Great Cavern Scripture, whose essence conveys:

The warm sunlight prevails, leaving no room for demonic forces.

The Dao descends with sacred texts to elevate ancestors across generations.

The Pure Cool World is a land of bliss; compassion is the gate to liberation.

Granting beings rebirth, preserving countless lives.

Auspicious signs manifest in the West, while war's fires are quenched across the four seas.

This passage reflects Daoism's compassionate salvific approach toward the calamities of war, emphasizing the purification of karma through divine power to restore peace. The specific mention of "Cataclysm of Fire" particularly critiques gunpowder warfare technology, embodying Daoism's critical perspective on the destructive potential of military innovations.

After the Supreme Celestial Worthy (the highest deity in Daoism) finished expounding the Great Cavern Scripture, he proclaimed an esoteric mantra: "Da na da na, wu fang jue, you fang jue, ba xin da, ba xin da, an hong li la, ma li ba, ma li ba." (This mantra is a special incantation used to dispel calamities and avert disasters.)

Having completed the fifteenth chapter of Great Cavern Salvation from the Beast Calamity, the Celestial Worthy summoned the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance (a celestial maiden responsible for illumination) and said: "You are now aware of this calamity. Ride upon my divine light and ascend the high platform to observe." Obeying the command, the Jade Maiden once again climbed the platform and beheld the mortal realm. She saw common people with mutilated limbs, their human forms lost—some lying dead in mountain caves, others sprawled lifeless in ravines. Surrounding them were leopards, tigers, rhinoceroses, and wolves, baring their fangs and claws, exuding a foul and ferocious aura that made it impossible for anyone to approach.

After observing for a long time without comprehension, the Jade Maiden returned to the Celestial Treasure Platform and knelt to report: "By your decree, I witnessed the claws and fangs of fierce beasts spreading across mountains and wilderness, their terrifying roars shaking the heavens. The corpses of commoners filled caves and gullies—some reduced to mere strands of hair, others piled high as white bones, with countless more left limbless and dismembered. What is the meaning of this?"

The Celestial Worthy replied: "This is a calamity." The Jade Maiden asked: "What kind of calamity?" He explained: "This is the Beast Calamity. The ferocious beasts that harm humanity were originally governed and restrained by mountain deities and earth gods (local guardian spirits). But as the kalpa’s end approaches, the beasts no longer submit to control. At first, they lurked in forests and mountains, but now they rampage through towns. Entire households—even whole cities—may fall victim to their savagery. Those burdened with heavy karmic offenses from past lives cannot escape this calamity."

The Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance inquired: "Can this calamity be alleviated?" The Celestial Worthy said: "It can. I shall command the Compassionate Worthy (the deity of mercy) who governs the life force in the southeast to send a harmonious wind from the Xun position (a trigram direction in the Bagua) to dissolve the calamity. This will awaken compassion in the beasts—even if stepped on, they will not bite, and the strong will cease preying on the weak."

Thereupon, the Celestial Worthy expounded a passage from the Great Cavern Scripture: "The Heavenly Sovereign (the supreme ruler of the cosmos) has issued a mighty vow: Let the beasts cease their arrogance, submit to human governance, restrain their ferocity, and conceal their tracks."

This scripture depicts the Daoist concept of an "insect calamity" and how the Primordial Celestial Sovereign (the supreme deity in Daoism) delivers sentient beings from suffering. Let me interpret it in contemporary language:

The text first describes the majestic guardianship of the Mountain Gods of the Five Sacred Peaks and the Water Deities of the Four Great Rivers maintaining cosmic order, preventing any evil forces from acting recklessly. It then introduces the profound state of the "Dharma within the Dharma of the Great Void," where special methods can harness the power of the Celestial Stem constellations.

The Primordial Celestial Sovereign then recites an esoteric mantra: "La luo la luo..." This Sanskrit-derived incantation belongs to Daoist mystical spells for exorcism and purification, possessing the power to cleanse spaces and dispel malignant Qi.

In Chapter Sixteen titled "Great Cavern Salvation from the Insect Calamity," the Sovereign commands the Jade Maiden of Nocturnal Radiance (a celestial being governing illumination) to ascend a high platform and observe the human realm. The maiden witnesses various venomous creatures wreaking havoc: strange serpents, giant pythons, scorpions, centipedes—some devouring humans, others coiling around bodies, attacking with poisonous tails. Victims suffer festering wounds, dismembered limbs, creating unbearable scenes of misery.

Reporting to the Sovereign, the Jade Maiden describes people with mutilated bodies, cyanotic complexions, swollen abdomens, and bloody mouths—surrounded by countless poisonous creatures gnawing at them. The Sovereign explains this as the "insect calamity": creatures of all sizes infest the world, large ones attacking directly while smaller ones emit toxic Qi, even forming pestilential miasma across mountains and wilderness.

Finally, the Sovereign resolves to end this calamity, commanding the Four Celestial Gate Guardian Kings (protector deities of the cardinal directions) to wield divine instruments and eradicate these venomous creatures. This passage exemplifies Daoist theological interpretations of natural disasters and the belief in divine intervention for universal salvation.

This scripture describes the salvific process by which the Primordial Celestial Sovereign (the supreme deity in Daoism) exercises divine power to deliver beings from calamity:

When the mists between heaven and earth disperse, when the waters become pure, when all venomous creatures retreat into caves or burrow underground, leaving only the clear and luminous Qi (vital energy) in the world—free from pestilence and poison—the Most Venerable Primordial Celestial Sovereign begins expounding the Great Cavern Scripture:

[Poetic section summary]

Heaven and earth were originally pure and tranquil,

All beings existed in harmonious peace.

But since the emergence of violent calamitous flames,

Disasters have spread without bound.

The Kunlun Mountains connect with Mount Taihua (sacred Daoist peaks),

Once freely traversed without obstruction.

Now I shall send down dew of Dharma-rain,

Filling the entire cosmos.

The primordial Qi of heaven and earth intermingles,

While the earth bears the power to deliver from calamity.

The Primordial Sovereign then recites secret incantations (transliterated mantras containing Sanskrit syllables like "Ba la ba la" and "Om xiu tu he"). After completing the mantras, he addresses the Jade Maiden of Luminous Night (a Daoist female immortal): "My radiance has now withdrawn. The worldly calamities you witnessed hereby reach their end. Yet there remain some beings and events outside ordinary cycles of tribulation. For you, I shall fulfill this vast vow, widely planting seeds of virtuous connection."

Finally, the Primordial Sovereign synthesizes sixteen types of calamities and proclaims the Great Mantra (containing syllables like "Om hum hum" and "Namo popo he"). Concluding the recitation, he tells the Jade Maiden: "Having witnessed countless kalpas of tribulation, you may now deliver beings according to karmic conditions." This passage exemplifies the Daoist salvific philosophy of dispelling disasters through sacred mantras and divine dialogues between deities and immortals.

This scripture passage depicts the scene where the Primordial Celestial Sovereign (one of the highest deities in Daoism) transmits the Great Cavern Scripture for Salvation from Kalpas, followed by the gods' grateful praises.

After hearing the Sovereign proclaim the secret incantations for kalpa salvation, the Perfected Luminescent One (an immortal who attained the Dao) danced excitedly, stirring celestial dust as he bowed to the Celestial Sovereign (the Primordial Sovereign): "O Celestial Sovereign, your boundless divine compassion not only transmits the Cavern Chapters (referring to the Great Cavern Scripture) but also proclaims the true mantra incantations, enabling all beings to forever escape the sea of suffering and transcend kalpas to attain longevity. How fortunate is this humble servant to encounter such a wondrous opportunity!" Then, circling the celestial steps (the heavenly palace's staircase), he composed a hymn while treading upon the void:

"O majestic Celestial Sovereign,

Your immeasurable light of compassion

Illuminates the kalpas of the Nine Nether Realms,

Allowing me to follow by your side.

The Jade Throne rains down Dharma showers,

Spreading cooling nectar everywhere,

As mortals ascend to the realm of longevity,

And demonic forces can no longer resist.

By your grace bestowed,

May the immortal realms also be delivered,

These true mantra incantations are supreme treasures,

The Great Cavern Scripture chapters shall never fade."

After reciting the hymn, the Perfected Luminescent One bowed reverently at the foot of the celestial steps. The assembled Celestial Emperors then arranged themselves in order, prostrating in gratitude: "We are aware of the worldly kalpas, yet knowing them, we lack the power to save, and even when saving, cannot do so completely. Were it not for your supreme compassion, how could beings transcend the mundane world and escape the accumulated kalpas? Today, hearing the Great Cavern Scripture chapters and the incantations for universal deliverance—this is the highest compassion and virtue. We shall faithfully uphold and practice them, spreading your celestial grace on your behalf."

The Celestial Sovereign praised them: "Excellent, excellent. All you celestial deities must each fulfill your roles in saving beings." Then the Sovereign ascended to the Jade Clarity Realm (the highest Daoist heaven), while the Perfected Luminescent One attended the carriage as it rose to the Purple Empyrean Palace. The other deities returned to their respective celestial abodes. The Primordial Celestial Sovereign inscribed this scripture on stone tablets in the No-Pride Imperial Realm (a sacred celestial site). Those predestined to encounter this scripture will come to know its immeasurable merits.

(Note: This passage primarily extols the supreme virtues of the Great Cavern Scripture for Salvation from Kalpas, emphasizing that through reciting mantra incantations and practicing the Great Cavern Scripture, one can transcend kalpas and attain longevity. The term "kalpa" is a Daoist technical term referring to disasters or calamities; "cavern chapters" denote sections of the Great Cavern Scripture; and "true incantations" refer to mantras with mystical power.)