《關帝忠孝忠義經/三界伏魔關聖帝君忠孝忠義真經》

Interpretation of the "Scripture of Loyalty, Filial Piety, and Righteousness of Lord Guan"

This scripture, formally titled The Authentic Scripture of Loyalty, Filial Piety, and Righteousness of the Demon-Subduing Sage Emperor Lord Guan of the Three Realms, primarily elucidates the practice of cultivation through scripture recitation. Before formal recitation, the following preparatory steps are essential:

First, one must purify both body and mind. The specific procedures include:

1. Cleansing the body and dressing neatly

2. Lighting incense to maintain a pure environment

3. Sitting upright with a calm and composed demeanor

4. Clearing distracting thoughts and regulating the breath

Following this, several key incantations are to be recited:

Purification of the Mouth Incantation

This incantation purifies the oral cavity, ensuring the mouth, teeth, and throat remain immaculate to facilitate proper scripture recitation. It invokes deities such as "Dan Zhu" (a Daoist term referring to the heart-mind) and "Luo Qian" (a guardian deity) to assist the practitioner.

Purification of the Heart Incantation

This calls upon the "Great Supreme Platform Star" (an important Daoist stellar deity) to stabilize the mind, dispel malign influences, and protect the practitioner's three hun and seven po (ethereal and corporeal souls) from disturbance.

Purification of the Body Incantation

This invokes the "Numinous Treasure Heavenly Worthy" (one of the Three Pure Ones in Daoism) to safeguard the body and bring tranquility to the internal organs. It mentions the "Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise" (the four directional guardians) arriving to protect the practice.

Pacification of the Earth Deity Incantation

This beseeches the "Heavenly Worthy of Primordial Beginning" (the supreme deity in Daoism) to stabilize the four directions, commanding mountain and earth deities to return to their posts and ensure the recitation space remains undisturbed.

Altar Purification Incantation

This employs "ritual water" to purify the sacred space, accompanied by sword-holding and the pacing of the celestial Dipper (a Daoist ritual step). It prays for the descent of divine beings, vividly depicting their arrival amid clouds and mist.

Finally, the Incense Offering Prayer expresses devout reverence to the deities, beseeching the constant presence of "Dao Qi" (the primordial energy of the cosmos).

The entire scripture emphasizes the importance of rigorous ritual preparation to attain a state of physical and mental purity, thereby enabling practitioners to better comprehend the true meaning of loyalty, filial piety, and righteousness.

This scripture is a devout prayer by Daoist practitioners confessing their transgressions and vowing spiritual cultivation to the Divine Lord Guan Sheng (the deified form of Guan Yu). The content unfolds in four main sections:

1. Opening Praise: It depicts celestial splendor—jade blossoms radiating light, the primordial Qi of the nine heavens coalescing into misty clouds, and fragrant vapors ascending through the celestial realms. The devotee implores the deities to bestow longevity, facilitate attainment of immortality, and fulfill all virtuous aspirations.

2. Invocation of the Divine: With reverent prostration, the practitioner petitions the supreme beings of the Three Pure Realms (Sanqing, the highest Daoist heavens), the sovereign of the Great Canopy Heaven (Daluo Tian, the supreme celestial domain), and the host of immortals attending the divine court. Having purified the three karmic defilements (of body, speech, and mind), the devotee earnestly recites scriptures, beseeching compassionate divine attention so these sacred vibrations may permeate the ten directions, aiding spiritual realization.

3. Confession of Transgressions: The text reflects on beginningless kalpas (cosmic time cycles) of ignorance obscuring one's true nature, enumerating karmic offenses including killing, theft, sexual misconduct, false speech, the three poisons (greed, hatred, and delusion), and seven forms of arrogance. Taking refuge in the sacred, the practitioner reveals genuine contrition, praying for the dissolution of accumulated karmic burdens across countless lifetimes.

4. Cultivation Vows: Seven specific commitments are pledged:

• Purification of senses (eyes beholding sacred forms, ears hearing true Dharma, nose perceiving divine fragrances)
• Rectification of conduct (speech praising the true path, body abstaining from impurity)
• Sustaining proper mindfulness (maintaining constant reverence)
• Repaying the four great kindnesses (of heaven, earth, rulers, and parents)
• Alleviating suffering in the three wretched paths (hell, hungry ghosts, animal realms)
• Practicing compassionate service
• Universally liberating sentient beings

The prayer concludes by seeking divine empowerment to fulfill these vows, eradicate karmic obstacles, and increase merit. The closing phrase "with bowed head I reverently give thanks" (qishou li xie) embodies the complete liturgical framework of repentance and vow-making in Daoist practice.

This scripture recounts the divine virtues and teachings of Lord Guan the Sage Emperor (the deified form of Guan Yu). It begins by extolling his supreme spiritual status: as the peerless Demon-Subduing Emperor, he oversees affairs across Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism, governing the Three Realms of heaven, earth, and humanity. Above, he commands the stars and celestial rivers across the Thirty-Six Heavens; below, he rules the underworld realms of the Seventy-Two Hells. He both records human merits to extend lifespans and bestow blessings, and judges transgressions to revoke lives.

The text then describes Lord Guan convening with celestial venerables and divine generals, witnessing sentient beings suffering in the cycle of life and death. He reveals this teaching: Human life originates from parents (father's essence and mother's blood), and only through parental nurture and sovereign guidance can one become complete. Just as plants need irrigation, houses require construction, and uncut jade demands polishing, human virtue must likewise be cultivated and manifested.

The myriad sufferings people encounter—poverty, untimely death, floods, fires, illnesses, wars, famines, punishments, wild beasts, and hell realms—all stem from violating moral principles in past lives: whether insulting parents or defying sovereign authority. Therefore, Lord Guan exhorts all to remember three great kindnesses: first, parental nurturing (as vast as heaven and earth); second, sovereign guidance (like sheltering canopy and supporting foundation); third, teachers' instruction. Only by upholding these moral principles can one transcend suffering.

This scripture expounds the essential teachings of Lord Guan the Sacred Emperor (the deified title of Guan Yu) on upholding the virtues of loyalty and filial piety. The text enumerates ten forms of gratitude one should cultivate:

First, gratitude for the toil of nurturing; second, gratitude for the devoted efforts in teaching; third, gratitude for the kindness of cultivation; fourth, gratitude for generous rewards; fifth, gratitude for earnest guidance; sixth, gratitude for the trust of important commissions; seventh, gratitude that one's body, hair, and skin are received from parents; eighth, gratitude that the bond between ruler and subject is like limbs connected; ninth, gratitude that life originates from parents and is difficult to repay; tenth, gratitude that worldly success stems from imperial favor which even sacrificing one's life cannot requite.

Regardless of status, wisdom or folly, all people should demonstrate complete loyalty to rulers and filial devotion to parents. Concrete expressions may include: providing material support and fulfilling filial duties through action; serving the nation with loyalty and accepting missions in times of peril; scrupulously performing official duties and harmonizing governance; exhausting one's efforts while transcending worldly concerns; maintaining a heart firm as metal and stone in devoted service to the country. Whether defending frontiers with unyielding integrity, fulfilling missions without disgrace, enduring cruel punishments, or dying wrapped in horsehide - all such exemplars of loyalty and filial piety will leave an immortal reputation, their spirits enduring as heaven and earth though their bodies perish.

Lord Guan promises special protection to those who devoutly recite this scripture: the poor and humble will receive protection; those facing premature death will receive protection; victims of flood or fire will receive protection; those struck by lightning will receive protection; the ill will receive protection; those in war zones will receive protection; famine sufferers will receive protection; offenders will receive protection; those encountering wild beasts will receive protection; even hell-bound souls will receive protection. The resulting blessings are immeasurable, capable of delivering countless beings from the sea of suffering.

The text concludes with a gatha: Loyalty and filial piety form the foundation of personal cultivation and the essence of spiritual practice. Perfecting these virtues constitutes accomplished practice, while those who neglect them are no better than beasts. All spiritual methods originate from this single mind of loyalty and filial devotion. By distancing oneself from sinful defilements, one attains liberation.

Interpretation of the Scripture of Loyalty and Righteousness of Lord Guan

At that moment, the Flying Celestial King, the great generals, and all those present rejoiced upon hearing this scripture and paid homage to Lord Guan the Sage Emperor. The Emperor accepted their reverence before withdrawing.

This Zhengyi Chongxuan Fugan Lingzhang records the demon-subduing might of Lord Guan the Sage Emperor: He wields the authority to reverse heaven and earth, embodies the dignity of a True Lord, and with a single breath, he summons thunder and shakes mountains and rivers. He has sworn an oath: wherever he goes, he will sever the roots of evil, raising his divine blade to summon celestial soldiers and immortals—those who defy him will be executed without mercy. His thunderous power moves swiftly as the wind, his golden battle-axe points to the heavens, and all who break their vows will be punished severely according to the laws of the Supreme Mystery.

Lord Guan manifested his divine presence and declared: "I am a celestial deity who commands the wind and thunder, governs ghosts and spirits, and leads millions of heavenly troops to uphold the Dao. So long as you maintain an upright heart and follow my divine edicts, I will resonate with your spirit. Those who remain steadfast in devotion to me will witness my manifestations—I will divide my form countless times to save the people wherever they are. Those who worship me with sincerity, I shall regard as my own brothers."

Lord Guan expounded in detail his divine powers: He can summon wind and rain, harness thunder and lightning; slay demons and monsters, beheading them with a single drop of blood; liberate wandering souls, ascending to heaven and descending to earth; capture malevolent spirits, forcing them to manifest instantly; dispel calamities, calming storms and fires; cure illnesses, and harmonize the five viscera. So long as one sincerely takes refuge in him, the Three Platforms (referring to the Upper, Middle, and Lower Dantian) will regulate righteous Qi, and all ailments will naturally vanish. The Hai day (the twelfth Earthly Branch) of each month is the day of his descent—offerings of incense must be made with utmost devotion. Those who break their oaths will suffer the punishment of wind-blades; if I myself break my vow, may my spirit be utterly destroyed. When merit is perfected, we shall ascend together to the Shangqing Heaven.

The scripture concludes by emphasizing the essence of mind cultivation: The mind should roam freely as if soaring through the heavens; one’s dwelling must remain pure. With reverence in the heart, blessings will naturally descend. Accumulating virtue through good deeds is like an echo in a valley—it will surely return.

The Preface to the Scripture of Loyalty and Righteousness explains: This nineteen-chapter scripture was originally composed by Lord Guan Shouting (an honorary title of Guan Yu) himself, later adapted into a vernacular version by Chen Shou of the Jin Dynasty. It was revised by the Song Dynasty scholar Sun Shi and printed by the Southern Song official Zhang Shou, circulating for over five hundred years. Guan Yu’s spirit of loyalty and righteousness illuminates the cosmos, and his deeds are eternally recorded in history.

This scripture records the life and righteous spirit of Lord Guan the Sage Emperor (Guan Yu). The main content is as follows:

Temples honoring Lord Guan are found throughout the land, where people of all ages and from all regions revere him without exception. His awe-inspiring spiritual presence remains as vivid today as it was a thousand years ago. The author Yang Bo was fortunate to share the same hometown as Lord Guan and had long received his divine protection. During the Jiajing era's Bingchen year (1556), when Yang Bo served as governor of Jing-Chu region (where Guan Yu once guarded), he witnessed the local people's enduring devotion to Lord Guan.

When bidding farewell to the King of Chu, the ruler inquired about Lord Guan's hometown and presented Yang Bo with the Scripture of Loyalty and Righteousness. Receiving this gift moved Yang Bo profoundly, as if Lord Guan himself had descended before him. During his return journey while organizing the scripture, Yang Bo discovered errors in the original manuscript and undertook careful editing and rearrangement. The text includes Guan Yu's portrait and his famous farewell letter to Cao Cao, with later generations compiling his deeds into this volume out of admiration.

Chapter One "Narrating Aspirations" from Lord Guan the Sage Emperor's Scripture for Saving the World, Dispelling Calamities, and Gathering Blessings Through Loyalty and Righteousness records Guan Yu's autobiographical account:

"I was originally a commoner from Xie County (modern Yuncheng, Shanxi) during the Eastern Han. When the Yellow Turban Rebellion erupted, I enlisted in Zhuo Commandery and formed the Peach Garden brotherhood with Liu Bei and Zhang Fei. Well-versed in the Spring and Autumn Annals and skilled in martial arts, I participated in campaigns against the Yellow Turbans and fought Lü Bu three times. At the Xutian hunt, I refrained from eliminating Cao Cao for fear of harming the emperor. Later separated at Xiapi, I temporarily joined Cao's camp but insisted on 'surrendering to Han, not to Cao,' accepting the Marquis of Hanshou title only to protect my two sisters-in-law. Upon learning of Liu Bei's whereabouts, I returned the seal and gold, traversed five passes while slaying six generals, and finally reunited with my sworn brothers at Gucheng."

"Thereafter, I followed Liu Bei through the Three Visits to invite Zhuge Liang from his thatched cottage, and showed mercy by releasing Cao Cao at Huarong Pass. As guardian of Jing Province, I promoted agriculture and education, and demonstrated courage by attending the single-blade meeting. At the Battle of Red Cliffs, I flooded seven armies and captured Pang De, shaking the realm with my might. Though honored as one of the Five Tiger Generals, I remained steadfast in loyalty and righteousness, risking everything to uphold the Han dynasty and eliminate traitors."

Interpretation of the Classic of Loyalty, Filial Piety, and Righteousness of Lord Guan

[Part One of the Scripture]

Heaven has decreed its will—behold my sincere heart and heed my humble admonitions: As children, fulfill your filial duties; as subjects, uphold unwavering loyalty. Parents should be kind, siblings harmonious, spouses united in heart, friends true to their word, and neighbors and servants treated with sincerity and goodwill. Though my words may seem simple, they align with the cultivation of body and mind. Whether scholars, officials, generals, or soldiers, those who remember my teachings will find success in their endeavors. Farmers, artisans, and merchants who recite my words will see their profits increase tenfold. Those who set sail on distant voyages or march into battle with my teachings in mind will surely return victorious. To the warriors, I show particular compassion—sincerely recite my words, and my spirit shall shield you. Regardless of status, whether facing illness, disaster, legal disputes, marital matters, trade, or threats of fire, water, or theft, earnest recitation will turn peril into peace.

[Chapter Two: The Primal Chaos]

At the dawn of creation, when Heaven and Earth first parted from chaos, the primordial Qi nurtured all things. Where Yang Qi flourished, men were born; where Yin Qi prevailed, women arose—thus, the cycle of life formed human relationships. The fortunes of humanity, whether good or ill, follow the law of cause and effect. Wealth and poverty, honor and lowliness, cling to a person like a shadow. Plant orchids, and fragrance follows; sow millet, and harvest comes—such is the fruit of one’s own deeds. With heads beneath Heaven and feet upon Earth, humans embody the righteous Qi of the Five Phases (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water). This wondrous Dao must not be taken lightly. Upholding the righteous path is difficult, yet straying into wickedness is all too easy. Those who indulge in greed, hatred, lust, and violence will fall eternally into hell. All beings reap what they sow—only by heeding my warnings can calamity be avoided. Honor your parents, cherish your kin, remain loyal and steadfast, and never defy Heaven’s laws. Thus, your body will remain whole, and your countenance upright. Among all things in the world, the human form is most precious.

[Chapter Three: The Destiny of Qi]

Humans are born through the endowment of Heaven and Earth’s Qi and destiny. Yet due to differences in land, the Qi they receive varies (this is "Qi"), and their wisdom or folly, purity or turbidity differ (this is "destiny"). "Destiny" connects to the way of beasts, while "Qi" aligns with the way of Heaven. Diligent study of the true Dao preserves the primordial Qi—the foolish may gain wisdom, the turbid may become clear. Remember my words well, and do not squander this life in vain.

[Chapter Four: The Ways of the World]

I lament the state of the world today: some show neither loyalty nor filial piety, disrespect their teachers, foster discord among siblings, sow strife between spouses, and betray the bonds of friendship.

These chapters from the Scripture of Loyalty, Filial Piety, and Righteousness of Lord Guan outline the moral principles people should follow in various life situations and the corresponding blessings or misfortunes they may encounter:

[The Order of Heaven and Earth]

When people disrespect the deities of heaven and earth, waste grains and food, disregard the light of the sun, moon, and stars, cheat others with false weights and measures, recklessly take life, or engage in adultery and deceit—once these evils accumulate to a certain degree, their souls will first be taken by the deities, followed by the destruction of their physical bodies. People often consider themselves clever, unaware that calamity will inevitably befall them.

[The Way of Home Life]

Chapter Five states that peaceful living and contentment are blessings. If one commits immoral acts at home—such as poisoning others or defying natural law—it will invite disturbances from snakes, insects, rats, and ants, and domestic animals will become restless. More severe consequences include thieves breaking in, causing unrest day and night, and even livestock falling to plague. Ultimately, family members may die one after another, with funerals following in succession. However, those who heed advice and turn to goodness can transform misfortune into fortune.

[Matters of Marriage and Childbirth]

Chapter Six explains that marriage and childbirth should align with astrological compatibility (Bazi). Violating the "Three Punishments and Six Harms" (inauspicious combinations in fate calculation) or encountering "Xianchi and the Heavenly Dog" (romantic misfortunes) may lead to difficulty in bearing children. But if one maintains an upright and virtuous heart, the Great Unity Deity (the god of childbirth) and the Holy Mother will protect them during labor, ensuring the safe birth of wise and capable descendants.

[Construction and Groundbreaking]

Chapter Seven warns that building and construction must respect geomancy (Feng Shui). Offending deities such as the "Grand Duke of the Year" (Taisui) or the "White Star of the Crane Spirit" (an inauspicious force) may result in injuries, illness, or even death and legal troubles. Only by accumulating virtue and performing good deeds can one receive the protection of a hundred deities, ensuring prosperity for the household.

[Scholarly Pursuits and Official Careers]

Chapter Eight states that scholarly success and official rank are predestined by heaven. Some toil in vain despite years of study, while others display effortless brilliance like the swift flow of the Three Gorges. Lord Guan (the deified form of Guan Yu) governs literary fortune—those who heed his guidance will excel in examinations and stand out as extraordinary talents.

[Guidelines for Travel]

Though Chapter Nine remains brief, its title suggests it concerns proper conduct while traveling, likely emphasizing loyalty, filial piety, moral integrity, and righteousness.

Interpretation of the "Scripture of Loyalty, Filial Piety, and Righteousness of Lord Guan"

On Military Campaigns (Chapter 10: Talismans and Litigation)

When leading troops in march, encampment, or battle, one must understand the signs of celestial phenomena and uphold a heart of loyalty and righteousness. With sincere devotion to the nation, divine protection will naturally follow. Yet one must remain vigilant against the deceit of thieves, the perils of storms, the tiger-wolf spirits of deep mountains, and the flood dragons of rivers. When haunted by vengeful ghosts or unavoidable calamities, maintain an upright heart. Lord Guan warns: act with caution, for good and evil are both self-invited.

On Disputes and Litigation (Chapter 10: Talismans and Litigation)

Human conflicts and lawsuits are predestined, governed by the spirits of heaven, earth, years, months, and hours. Daily conduct must heed taboos, for deities oversee both day and night. Petty quarrels, curses born of trivial grievances—these ultimately entangle one in legal strife. Lord Guan reminds us: reflect on oneself, for all fortune and misfortune arise from one’s own deeds.

On the Roots of Illness (Chapter 11: Disease)

Chronic illnesses often stem from a disturbed Shen (spirit) and unsettled Hun and Po (ethereal and corporeal souls). They may result from offending ancient sages, the sun and moon, or desecrating city gods, temple deities, or the kitchen god. Alternatively, they may be karmic debts from past lives or hauntings by ghosts. Lord Guan teaches: empathize with others and awaken now to these causes and effects.

On Fate and Destiny (Chapter 12: Fate)

Human destinies vary—wealth, nobility, poverty, and lowliness each follow their own ordained course. When the Five Phases (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) clash, when stars oppose, when one offends the Grand Duke Jupiter (Tai Sui) or is struck by baleful stars, hardship follows. Lord Guan advises: self-reflection is key. Seek resolution through the Three Officials (Sanguan Dadi), harmonize with heaven’s decree, and do not resist fate.

Essentials of Nourishing Life (Chapter 13: Preserving Vitality)

To nurture life, grasp its fundamental principles: sever external distractions and cleanse internal impurities. Keep the five viscera and six bowels in harmony, drawing upon the righteous Qi (vital energy) of heaven and earth to nourish the body. Moderate food and drink, regulate with medicine. Subdue the Three Corpses (Sanshi) within, steady the six senses, and purify the depths of consciousness. Lord Guan instructs: follow these methods to ensure lasting health and peace.

On Preventing Epidemics (Chapter 14: Pestilence)

(Note: The original text of Chapter 14 is incomplete; no interpretation is provided here.)

The Scripture of Lord Guan's Loyalty, Filial Piety, and Righteousness (关帝忠孝忠义经) explores the root causes of worldly calamities and their remedies:

Chapter 15, "The Chapter of Primordial Simplicity" (太朴章), explains that after the age of ancient purity ended, the rise of benevolence, righteousness, rituals, and music ironically bred hypocrisy. The loss of six fundamental virtues led to social strife. When rulers lack magnanimity and subjects lack loyalty, families suffer disasters, illness, death, financial ruin, and legal troubles. Lives are lost in vain, misfortunes multiply, and loved ones are torn apart. The solution lies in upholding the Five Cardinal Relationships (五伦—ruler-subject, father-child, husband-wife, elder-younger siblings, and friendships), practicing humility, sincerity, and knowing one's place.

Chapter 16, "The Chapter of the Realm of Desire" (欲界章), depicts a world of craving: beings devoid of compassion or righteousness, steeped in wickedness. When social order collapses, wars erupt, and natural and man-made disasters follow. Liberation comes through steadfast loyalty, filial piety, and righteousness, recognizing that good and evil arise from the mind—virtue brings blessings, vice invites calamity.

Chapter 17, "The Chapter of Rain and Sunshine" (雨旸章), discusses climatic imbalances: disrupted rainfall causes droughts (Zhu Rong 祝融, the fire god, and red rats symbolize aridity), while erratic sea deities bring floods. To counter such disasters, cultivate virtue (De 德), align with celestial rhythms, and practice diligence and reverence to avert misfortune.

Chapter 18, "The Chapter of Human Life" (生人章), reveals life's origins: the Five Directional Sovereigns (五方帝君, Daoist directional deities) govern existence—the Eastern Dipper (Blue Dragon 青龙) oversees lifespan, the Western Dipper (White Tiger 白虎) records names, the Northern Dipper (Black Tortoise 玄武) determines death, the Southern Dipper (Vermilion Bird 朱雀) presides over birth, and the Central Dipper (Yellow Emperor 黄帝) commands all. These deities safeguard the soul (Shen 神), essence (Jing 精), and vital energy (Qi 炁), sustaining life's cycles in the vast cosmos.

Core teaching: Disasters stem from moral decay; the remedy lies in returning to the cultivation of loyalty, filial piety, and righteousness—aligning one's heart with heavenly principles (Dao 道) and ethical harmony.

Interpretation of the Scripture of Loyalty, Filial Piety, and Righteousness of Lord Guan

This scripture expounds on the principle of karmic retribution and the divine majesty of the Sacred Emperor Guan (the deified Lord Guan Yu).

Regarding karmic retribution, it states: How do the consequences in this world arise? They stem from the harshness of human hearts, the chaos of scattered thoughts, and actions that are muddled and devoid of reason. Some commit countless evils, straying from the Dao (the Way), lacking benevolence and righteousness, defying the principles of Heaven, deceiving rulers, and betraying their lords—neither loyal nor wise. Devoid of compassion, they indulge in wickedness, harming the people and slaughtering living beings, accumulating boundless sins. Such evil deeds bring endless retribution, with calamities following one after another, bringing unbearable suffering.

No evil karma arises without cause—every human action is witnessed by spirits and deities. When your transgressions accumulate, the punishments of the unseen realm will befall you. Many in this world fail to understand this truth and persist in reckless wrongdoing. Remember this: abide by your duty, avoid deceit and wickedness, refrain from theft and lust, preserve your true heart, sincerely revere the divine, and never forget virtuous thoughts—only then will blessings accompany you throughout life.

The subsequent Precious Edict of Lord Guan extols his divine majesty: He wears the nine-beaded crown (a ceremonial headpiece of emperors), robes embroidered with dragons, purple-cloud boots, and a jade belt at his waist. In the mortal realm, he oversees good and evil, commanding the Thunder Ministry of the Heavenly Court (a Daoist divine institution that enforces punishment), wielding the Green Dragon Crescent Blade to govern life and death. His awe-inspiring power is not attained through cultivation but is inherently connected to the Supreme Ultimate (Taiji) and the Boundless (Wuji), as exalted as the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (Yuanshi Tianzun, the highest Daoist deity) and the Celestial Worthy of Universal Salvation (Taiyi Jiuku Tianzun, the savior of lost souls).

Finally, the Precious Repentance of Lord Guan describes his governance over the Three Teachings (Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism), his adherence to the Five Constant Virtues (benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and faithfulness), and his ability to ward off great calamities while upholding supreme righteousness. His divine might is vast and boundless—it pervades the entire Dharma Realm (the cosmos) yet can also be condensed into a speck of dust. With sincere devotion, his majestic presence manifests, causing demons and malevolent spirits to dissolve on their own, while venomous dragons and fierce beasts flee in terror.

This passage is an excerpt from the Daoist scripture The Classic of Loyalty, Filial Piety, and Righteousness of Lord Guan, primarily extolling the divine power and virtuous deeds of the Sacred Emperor Lord Guan (Guan Yu) while chronicling his life and embodying the spirit of loyalty and righteousness.

The opening describes auspicious omens: sacred mushrooms growing on mountains, mirages appearing over the sea, peace reigning under heaven, and benevolent stars shining amidst propitious clouds. These signs manifest through the cultivation of repentance and the pursuit of the Great Dao (the supreme truth in Daoism).

The text then lists and venerates the sacred titles of twenty Celestial Honored Ones and Great Emperors, including:

• The Three Pure Ones (Sanqing, the highest deities in Daoism)
• The Great Emperor Who Subdues Demons in the Three Realms (one of Lord Guan's divine offices)
• The Celestial Honored One Who Inspires Loyalty and Righteousness (a deity who teaches these virtues to humanity)

These references highlight Lord Guan's significant position within the Daoist pantheon.

The core teachings emphasize:

1. The Dao of Heaven is clear and just—good and evil will inevitably receive their due retribution.

2. Regardless of social status, all should uphold the righteous path:

• The poor and humble can attain vitality by refraining from reckless actions
• The wealthy and noble must avoid arrogance, extravagance, and debauchery
• Those who abide by the law will escape punishment
• Devotees of the Dharma (Buddhist teachings) will be protected from evil influences
• The upright and virtuous will be praised
• Almsgivers will receive blessings and longevity

The scripture concludes with Lord Guan's biography:

Born Guan Yu, styled Changsheng (later changed to Yunchang), he hailed from Xieliang in Shanxi. Born during Emperor Huan of Han's reign (specifically on the 13th day of the 5th lunar month, 160 CE), he famously swore brotherhood with Liu Bei and Zhang Fei in a peach orchard during Emperor Ling's reign (184 CE). Appointed as a Lieutenant General under Emperor Xian (191 CE), he later rose to become General of the Vanguard. In the 20th year of Jian'an (215 CE), he served as General Who Pacifies Bandits and Governor of Jing Province. He passed away at Maicheng in the 12th month of Jian'an 24 (219 CE) at age 60 and was buried in Dangyang, Hubei.

Through praising Lord Guan's divine majesty and recounting his loyal deeds, this scripture encourages people to emulate his virtues of loyalty, filial piety, moral integrity, and righteousness while cultivating goodness.

This scripture records the evolving titles bestowed upon Lord Guan the Sage Emperor (Guan Yu) across dynasties, along with his deeds of loyalty and righteousness, concluding with a eulogistic poem.

In the first year of the Yifeng era (676 CE) under Emperor Gaozong of Tang, Guan Yu manifested his sacred presence at Mount Yuquan, where the Sixth Patriarch Huineng later established a temple in his honor. During the Song dynasty, Emperor Renzong conferred upon him the title "True Lord of Chongning" in 1055, followed by Emperor Yingzong's additional title "Righteous and Brave Prince of Martial Peace" in 1068. By the third month of 1567 (the first year of Emperor Longqing's reign in Ming dynasty), his honors had expanded to "Righteous and Brave Prince of Martial Peace and Heroic Beneficence, True Lord of Chongning Who Embodies the Ultimate Dao, Great Emperor of the Southern Pole Who Assists Heaven and Manifests Might."

In 1614 (the 42nd year of Wanli era, jia-yin cyclical year), the reigning emperor—deeply revering Guan Yu's loyalty—saw him elevated through the Jade Emperor's decree to "Heavenly Worthy Guan the Sage Emperor, Great Emperor Who Subdues Demons Across Three Realms, Whose Divine Might Resonates Afar."

The text includes Guan Yu's Letter of Farewell to Cao Cao, whose essence states: "The sun hangs high, illuminating all things; human hearts reveal innate sincerity within. I, Guan Yu, once vowed: 'While my former lord (Liu Bei) lives, I shall return to him; should he perish, I'll serve his descendants.' Though privileged by Prime Minister Cao's generous treatment, I cannot forget my original debt to Lord Liu. New kindness, however profound, cannot sever old bonds. Having learned of my former lord's whereabouts, I repaid the Prime Minister's grace by slaying Yan Liang at White Horse and Wen Chou on Southern Slope. All bestowed treasures remain sealed in your treasury, untouched."

The appended eulogy—composed by Li Dongyang, Grand Secretary of the Hua Gai Hall during Ming dynasty—praises Guan Yu: "As Marquis of Hanshou, his loyalty and martial prowess surpassed all armies; he valued gratitude above life itself. Though Cao Cao ('Old Deceiver') showed restraint in pursuit, Eastern Wu's Lu Xun and Lü Meng schemed his December capture. Even in death, his wrathful beard like halberds and blazing eyes strike awe. Alas, the Han's celestial mandate had expired—yet though the master of Green Dragon Crescent Blade and Red Hare steed perished, his spirit endures eternally."

The conclusion depicts Guan Yu's temple: "Perched on high ground overlooking rivers, flanked by banners and war drums. People gather in spring and autumn with plump sacrifices and fine wine, praying the deity might descend astride Red Hare, wielding his crescent blade from heaven."

This scripture depicts the righteous image of Lord Guan the Sage Emperor (Guan Yu) and people's veneration for him. The first part describes the sacrificial scene in Guan Di Temple: Lord Guan's long beard flows gracefully, his face glowing red, while temple drums and music resound loudly as people drink and feast, celebrating the deity's descent. As a divine being, Lord Guan protects both mountains and rivers while blessing the stars, particularly safeguarding the local populace. People pray for him to uphold the cosmic order, protect the Son of Heaven, and ensure perpetual temple worship.

The second part presents eulogies from two grand academicians. Xu Jie praises Lord Guan's majestic countenance shining like the sun, his noble spirit filling heaven and earth—his military strategy derived from the wisdom of the Spring and Autumn Annals, his martial prowess rooted in benevolence and righteousness. Leading armies into battle, his formidable reputation awed treacherous elements, while his loyal martyrdom became renowned throughout the land. Wu Daonan extols Lord Guan's eternal divine presence, his loyalty and righteousness traversing millennia like the sun and moon illuminating past and present.

Finally, the text describes Lord Guan's sword: its blade measures two inches wide, the pommel featuring a large ring four inches in diameter connected to four smaller rings below, all bearing imperial seals, with the entire sword weighing one jin. This sword symbolizes Lord Guan's authority and sovereign power.