《靈寶文檢》Vol. 22

Treatise on the Presentation of Offerings in the Three Registers of the Daoist Canon

Whenever a Zhaijiao (purification ritual) is performed, reports are submitted to the deities and offerings such as silk and horses are presented. These acts aim to win their trust through sincere devotion and to communicate with the true spirits. But if too many divine offices and posts are assigned, it may become difficult to attend properly to every matter.

In ancient practice, presentations were not concerned with an abundance of formal categories. Common methods included burning firewood, cutting off hair, submitting memorials by flying dispatch, and offering water and flowers, all with wholehearted and earnest prayer. This shows that memorials of presentation need not be numerous to bring blessings. What matters is utmost sincerity.

The Three Register Retreats in the Daoist Canon

Upper Origin Golden Register Retreat

Emperors undertake cultivation and worship, holding grand rites to sacrifice to Heaven. At the retreat’s conclusion, when the altar is dismantled, a Universal Offering Rite to Heaven is held, with 3,600 divine positions.

Middle Origin Jade Register Retreat

This seeks blessings for the six palaces and peace for the empress and the imperial consorts. When the altar is dismantled, a Rite to All Heaven is held, with 2,400 divine positions.

Lower Origin Yellow Register Retreat

Officials and common people undertake the retreat together to bring universal aid to the family and the state. When the altar is dismantled, a Rite to the Vast Heavens is held, with 1,200 divine positions.

Note on the Contents

The Rite to the Vast Heavens lists 100 memorial forms, corresponding to 1,200 divine positions.