《靈寶文檢》Vol. 31

Taishang Huatan Zhenfu (True Talisman of the Supreme Altar Transformation)

Right Talisman, Issued Below (this talisman is an official decree issued downward):

Among the heavens, above the highest of heavens, beyond the Yuluo Xiao Tower and the Upper Capital of the Jade Mountain, lie wondrous courts, golden gates, and jade chambers. There the True Sovereign (the true body of the Heavenly Emperor) today reviews and registers all the heavens. The heavens attend at the raised pavilion, hold the talismans and grasp the registers, and gather in their places. The Mysterious Altar (xuantan, the altar on which Daoists establish and perform rites) responds to what is needed, transforms, and rises to ascend.

Shangqing respectfully receives the mandate of the Primordial Beginning and the edict of Lord of the Empty August: at the place where the altar is to be established, transform the Mysterious Altar so that it is completed. When the Golden Gate Talisman arrives, it is to be carried out at once.

Issued in the year Xinhai of the Heavenly Cycle, month _, day _.

Carrying out the expedient procedures, (the lowly attendant) ○○○ receives the decree and carries it out.

Ancestral Master of the Longmen Orthodox Lineage, Celestial Immortal and Foremost Scholar, Great Perfected Qiu, witness and guarantor.

Jade Clarity, Upper Clarity, and Great Clarity Benevolent Light True Talismans / Vast Heaven True Talisman

(The Benevolent Light and summoning talismans issued by the Three Pure Ones and Vast Heaven are listed together in this register, for selection by rite when establishing an altar or summoning spirits.)

Jade Clarity Summoning Yang Spirit True Talisman

Supreme Primordial Mysterious Altar. This altar, now following the established Daoist models, solemnly establishes the Mysterious Altar and summons the Yang Spirits (the deities and vital energies associated with yang affairs, the living body, and prolonging life), requesting that true vital energy descend and pour into the Dharma altar. Let the mind be focused and sincere, so that the true perfected may be illuminated and approach. This is to be issued as a formal notice.

The Nine Vital Energies of the Lingbao Jade Light shine clearly, nurturing and beginning creation, transforming into Yang Spirits, uniting with my primordial destiny, and paying homage to the Divine Lord. I devoutly request what is summoned: preservation of life and sustenance of the body. The talisman light is issued downward, uniting with the Way and the True; it accompanies and dwells within my person and enters the Golden Gate (the heavenly gate through which the perfected enter, the gate of realization). Once the decree is received, wind and fire shall carry it out without delay.

Issued in the year _, month _, day ___.

Talisman _ Dharma name _

Ancestral Master of the Longmen Orthodox Lineage, Celestial Immortal and Foremost Scholar, Great Perfected Qiu, witness and guarantor.

Jade Clarity Summoning Yang Spirit True Talisman (Ascending Altar Document Form)

Supreme Primordial Mysterious Altar

This altar now ascends to the ___ level, goes forward to the steps before the Divine Lord, and pays court to the Chief True Sovereign (the principal deity presiding over the altar, the true ruler being approached). It summons the Yang Spirits to welcome the living vital energy. This document is to be issued as a formal notice.

Respectfully received from the Great General of the Shenxiao Bifei Changyang (the rank of the Yang Spirit held by the Shenxiao school). Request the golden bell, so that its sound reaches the ten directions and the three realms and is heard from afar. The proclaimed standard of the precious model illuminates the myriad sages.

Note: This section belongs to the Lingbao register of miscellaneous yang-affairs talismans. These texts are mainly used in rites such as establishing and transforming altars, summoning Yang Spirits, and preserving life and sustaining the body. Qiu Dazhenren is the name of the witness recorded within the Longmen lineage, and ○○○ marks the position where the officiant writes his own Dharma name. Dates and titles on these talismans and documents must be filled in according to the altar's own lineage and liturgical manual, and should not be used indiscriminately.

A Vernacular Reading of the Lingbao Wencao (Lingbao Ritual Documents)

Respectful Writ for the Descent and Inspection of the Thousand Perfected

Issued on the __ day of the __ month of the year of Heavenly Revolution.

Writ

Patriarch, Great Perfected Qiu Chuji, Celestial Immortal of the Longmen Orthodox Lineage — certifying witness.

True Talisman of Jade Clarity for Summoning Yin Spirits

Supreme Primordial Ancestral Altar.

This altar now reverently follows the Daoist model and solemnly establishes the Mystery Altar, summoning the yin spirits and requesting their descent; true Qi flows down into the ritual altar, enabling concentrated and single-minded intent, in the hope that true spirits will descend. It is necessary to announce as follows:

Lingbao’s Jade Radiance, the Nine Qi of Bright Yang, extending life and entering the Dao, all arrive together at the springs’ gate. A thousand spirits are clearly present; ten thousand deities all listen. The hidden passes open in peace and reach up to the heavenly court. Talisman light is announced below; wind and fire do not pause. Together they roam with me and ascend into the Golden Gate. As decreed, carry it out with fiery urgency.

Announced on the __ day of the __ month of the year of Heavenly Revolution. Dharma name __.

Patriarch, Great Perfected Qiu Chuji, Celestial Immortal Zhuangyuan of the Longmen Orthodox Lineage — certifying witness.

True Talisman of Jade Clarity for Summoning Yin Spirits

Supreme Primordial Ancestral Altar.

This office now ascends the altar to have audience with the Emperor, advances up the steps to worship the Perfected, and next summons the yin spirits to bring about harmony. It is necessary to issue this writ:

The above is offered to the Great General of the Divine Empyrean Forbidden Altar Who Contains Yin.

Please let the jade chimes sound in harmony, and let the lingering Buxu chant be heard; rainbow banners faintly descend from the solemn Purple Pavilion. Respectfully issued as a writ.

Promulgated on the __ day of the __ month of the year of Heavenly Revolution.

Writ

Patriarch, Great Perfected Qiu Chuji, Celestial Immortal Zhuangyuan of the Longmen Orthodox Lineage — certifying witness.

True Talisman for Rolling Up the Curtain Before the Hall of the Primordial Beginning

Supreme Primordial Ancestral Altar.

On this __ day of the __ month, this altar respectfully receives the jade talisman of the Immortal Realm of Grand Clarity and must announce as follows:

Above is the Wondrous Court; I, [name], respectfully announce and carry it out.

The Yuluo Xiao Terrace, the Upper Capital of Jade Mountain; the highest of the high, Daluo Jade Clarity. Vast through countless kalpas, as if gone and as if present. The myriad forms are still and deep; radiance is infused and the dragon arises. In the mysterious-radiance immortal dwelling, in the chamber where Yin-Yang congeal, all phenomena shine together, and the name is inscribed in the Purple Palace. As…

Notes for reading the writs:

A writ is a formal document used at a Daoist ritual altar, “announced below” to divine beings to request their descent or compliance with talismanic commands. Longmen Orthodox Lineage refers to the transmitted lineage of the Quanzhen (Complete Perfection) Longmen school; in this text, the Great Perfected Qiu Chuji is the certifying patriarch. Jade Clarity is the highest of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing) realms; here, joined with “true talisman for summoning yin spirits,” it indicates summoning yin spirits under the authority of Jade Clarity. The Mystery Altar or ritual altar is the site where Lingbao Keyi (liturgy) is performed. Yin spirits, as opposed to yang spirits, generally refer to netherworld beings, the dead, or yin divine offices; in liturgy they are often summoned for salvation and harmony. Buxu is the Daoist chant sung by priests circling the altar; the harmonious jade chimes accompany its sound. The Hall of the Primordial Beginning enshrines the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning; “rolling up the curtain” is the rite of inviting the Celestial Worthy to descend to the altar. Yuluo Xiao Terrace, Jade Mountain Upper Capital, Daluo Jade Clarity, Purple Palace, and similar names are heavenly-place names common in scriptures and repentance texts; they describe the Wondrous Court and Jade Capital, the emptiness and stillness of the kalpas, the immortal dwelling where Yin-Yang congeal, and the name being registered in the heavenly palace.

The original has missing and erroneous characters; the above translation follows conventional liturgical phrasing to make a coherent reading. If one needs to compare a specific ritual manual, the edition should be checked again.

Edict of the Wind-and-Fire Relay Post (Plain-Language Explanation)

This text is a guan (gate-passage) document from the Lingbao (Numinous Treasure) lineage. It is used to urge the celestial realms and speed the transmission of memorials. It works like an official dispatch to the Gongcao (Merit Officers) and Feiyun Shizhe (Flying Cloud Envoys) of the Three Realms. The sealed memorial is presented through the Haotian Tongming Gong (Palace of Universal Brilliance under the Vast Heaven), and the divine generals are asked to ride the clouds ten thousand li and reach the Nine Heavens in an instant.

Edict of the Wind-and-Fire Relay Post

Juanlian Dajiangjun (Curtain-Raising Great General) of the Yuanshi Hall before the hall: zhun ci (approved, to be carried out).

Issued in the year, month, and day of the Tianyun (Heavenly Cycle).

Talisman (fu) and Dharma name (faming).

Ancestral Master, Orthodox Lineage of the Longmen School, Heavenly Immortal Zhuangyuan (Top Scholar) Great Perfected Qiu, zhengmeng (witness and seal).

Proclamation of the Passage Summons (Xuan Guanyin, the introductory summons for opening passage)

To the Supreme Hunyuan Altar: this is an urgent matter requiring swift transmission.

The present holder of the office that governs and unifies the Three Heavens and enforces the law, who has held a place among the Clerks of the Five Offices, has established the dige (liturgical standards), and the guanshen (formal gate petition) is therefore allowed to pass through the Three Realms. The keyi (liturgy) is clear, and the text can reach the Nine Heavens. Now there is an urgent petition to be submitted, and it must be sent through the gate. Respectfully, one sealed memorial is enclosed, complete with its seal, to be presented at the Haotian Tongming Gong.

Right: the following summons is addressed to the Upper Realm Merit Officers, the Flying Cloud Envoys, and the officials, generals, clerks, and soldiers on mission. Request that you soar through the sky and swiftly deliver this sealed memorial. The journey of ten thousand li is marvelous because it is completed in a moment, and the Dharma realms of three thousand worlds can be reported in a breath.

Thus the summons is issued.

Issued in the year, month, and day of the Heavenly Cycle.

Lingbao Kaiqian Zhenfu (Lingbao Talisman of Opening Qian), gunzhi (issued with respect)

The vital breath of the Shenxiao Yufu Pili Zongzhen (True Sovereign of Thunder of the Divine Empyrean Jade Repository) forms and transforms, and the nine Yang generate the written pattern. Above, it commands the Thunder Deities; below, it gathers the clerks and soldiers. No ghost fails to submit, and no spirit fails to tremble. It drives the thunder and commands the lightning and holds all the myriad spirits. The Fatian Ding (Dharma Heaven Ding-spirits) and the Yuqing Leiting (Jade Clarity Thunder) lead the troops on the left and right, including the fire dragon and the black dog. They search out dragons, seize ghosts, and come at once when summoned. All proceeds in full accordance with the Edict of the Wind-and-Fire Relay Post.

Issued in the year, month, and day of the Heavenly Cycle.

Talisman and Dharma name.

Ancestral Master, Orthodox Lineage of the Longmen School, Heavenly Immortal Zhuangyuan Great Perfected Qiu.

Lingbao Pouxun Zhenfu (Lingbao Talisman of Breaking Xun), issued on the right.

Right, the following orders are given. The Flying Talisman Envoys drive away the world of harsh winds, enter directly through the Heavenly Gate, and penetrate to the spirit realm. The true qi of the Three Primes allows no ghost to resist. Under the three great generals Tang, Ge, and Zhou, official and deceased qi may not presume to interfere. Anyone who resists or disobeys shall be taken into custody and dealt with according to law.

Points to Remember While Reading

The terms guan and xuan guanyin refer to the opening preface used in Daoist zhaijiao (purification and offering rites) when passing through gates such as the Heavenly Gate and the Tongming Palace. They are normally followed by memorials and talismanic commands.

Gongcao and Feiyun Shizhe are the names of the celestial clerks and messengers who transmit documents. The text commands them to carry the memorial up to Heaven in relay.

The Lingbao Kaiqian Zhenfu and Lingbao Pouxun Zhenfu are talismans of the Lingbao school. In the Bagua (Eight Trigrams), Qian and Xun are directional trigrams, and here they are paired with the ideas of "opening the gate" and "breaking obstacles."

Qiu Dazhenren (Great Perfected Qiu) refers to Qiu Chuji, also known as Changchun Zhenren (Perfected Changchun), of the Longmen School. In this document he appears as the witness and seal of the ancestral master, in the standard format for certifying a petition.

The entries for "Tianyun" (Heavenly Cycle), "faming" (Dharma name), and the dates are mostly left blank. The officiating master fills in the date, and the Daoist priest fills in his Dharma name when the rite is performed.

This scripture describes the ritual process and accompanying talismanic incantations for summoning the Gongcao (heavenly officials responsible for delivering documents and executing celestial commands) in Daoist liturgical practice. Several key components are outlined:

The text first references the Tian Gang star (the handle of the Big Dipper) and the cosmic positioning of Qian (Heaven) and Kun (Earth), symbolizing celestial order. It lists various divine officials like Right Officer Li Ang and Wu Fang, who serve as messengers of heavenly decrees. The phrase "those who disobey shall be reduced to dust" serves as a warning against defying celestial will.

Seven specific Gongcao are then enumerated with their respective domains: Jiang Guangfu (Celestial Path Gongcao), Liu Gang (Earthly Path Gongcao), Zhou Zhengyang (Human Path Gongcao), etc., each governing distinct realms including heaven, earth, humanity, immortals, spirits, ghosts, and karmic affairs. Li Zhengguang (Five Paths Gongcao) oversees matters related to the five paths of rebirth.

The summoning ritual involves specific mudras (finger gestures like the Chenwen seal), visualization (imagining the true form of the deities), and talismanic procedures including drawing and burning charms. Practitioners must exhale toward the southeast (Xun position), with patients ingesting the talismanic ashes for a hundred days to manifest effects. The concluding phrase "urgently, urgently, in accordance with the statutes and ordinances" (jiji rulüling) is a standard Daoist incantation ending demanding immediate execution.

The final summoning chant emphasizes the Gongcao's role as "Jade Text Officials of the Mysterious Bureau who establish merit," commanding them to swiftly descend with divine light and act according to the ordinances of the Jade Clarity True King of Divine Empyrean (a supreme Daoist deity). The ritual requires burning talismans (fulu) and official petitions (die) in the incense burner as celestial correspondence.

These incantations are primarily employed in rites for liberating wandering souls (orphaned spirits and stagnant ghosts) and communicating across the three realms, embodying the Daoist liturgical tradition of mobilizing divine forces through talismans (fulu) and incantations (keyi).

This scripture records several spirit-summoning talismans (Fulu) and ritual procedures from the Lingbao tradition (one of Daoism's major schools). It begins by instructing practitioners to use the "Morning Star Hand Seal" (a specific Daoist mudra technique) in conjunction with Qi from the Xun position (the southeast direction in the Bagua/ Eight Trigrams) to invoke divine beings.

The incantations consist of multiple sections: The first summons the Duty Officer of the Day (a celestial functionary) and divine officials from the Shenxiao lineage (a Daoist thunder ritual tradition), commanding them to swiftly mobilize celestial troops, govern deities from all directions, and deliver the talismanic decree directly to the Jade Radiance Palace (one of Daoism's highest heavenly realms). The second section contains invocations for the Six Jia Generals (Daoist guardian deities), demanding immediate execution of the Jade Clarity (one of the Sanqing/Three Pure Ones) edicts.

The text then details various talismanic applications, including: furnace talismans for submitting memorials, presentation talismans for ceremonial homage, and specific talismans for different parts of the document case (such as the case bottom, document base, and case surface). It also lists body talismans for wearing on left and right shoulders, arms, feet, and the crown of the head, with distinct requirements for Yang days and Yin days (as classified by Daoist calendrics).

Subsequent instructions mention using sacred characters like "Three Heavens Jade Cosmos" derived from the Great Cavern Jade Scripture (Dadong Yujing, an important Daoist classic). The document's header and footer require specific numinous characters corresponding to the twenty-eight lunar mansions. Practitioners must write symbols of the Wind and Fire trigrams using the Sword Mudra technique while reciting prescribed mantras.

The concluding section presents altar-stabilizing talismans, mentioning the harmonization of the Nine Qi (nine primordial energies), application of Dragon Script (sacred calligraphy), and arrangement of the Bagua directions. Emphasizing the cultivation of pure De (Virtue), these practices transform one's energetic mechanisms to attain auspicious states. All talismans originate from the Daoist Canon's collections on Shenxiao rituals and the Imperial Register Retreat (Huanglu Zhaijiao, a major purification ceremony).

Ji ji ru lü ling (jí jí rú lǜ lìng; a closing formula for talismans, meaning "with all speed, act in accordance with the statute")

Ordinance of the Azure Emperor of the East, Heavenly Lord of the Nine Qi

Promulgated on a stated day, month, and year of the Heavenly Cycle.

Talisman (sacred talisman used in the rite)

Executed in the liturgy: Minister XXX, having received the decree, complies and carries it out.

Patriarch of the Orthodox Dragon Gate (Longmen) lineage, Heavenly Immortal Principal Laureate, Heavenly Lord Guangyuan Pudu: Witness and Attestation (testifying and approving).

Yuqing Ordinance for Pacifying the Altar, Red Emperor of the South

The following talisman is issued as a command:

Southern Ling, three lights, Qi filling the fire-glow, nourish the upright with clarity. Evil dares not oppose; vermilion gates and the right-hand shadow are under my command. Ji ji ru lü ling.

Heavenly Lord of the Three Qi of the Red Emperor of the South, Ordinance

The year, month, and master's title are as above.

Yuqing Ordinance for Pacifying the Altar, White Emperor of the West

The following talisman is issued as a command:

Great White flows with crystal, seven stars guard the spirit, and the virtue of Heaven is kept within. Gold and fire cannot harm it; what is born cannot be transformed, and the primal white opens into brightness. Ji ji ru lü ling.

Heavenly Lord of the Seven Qi of the White Emperor of the West, Ordinance

Promulgated on a stated day, month, and year of the Heavenly Cycle.

Talisman

Executed in the liturgy: Minister XXX, having received the decree, complies and carries it out.

Patriarch of the Orthodox Dragon Gate lineage, Heavenly Immortal Principal Laureate, Heavenly Lord Guangyuan Pudu: Witness and Attestation.

Yuqing Ordinance for Pacifying the Altar, Black Emperor of the North

The following talisman is issued as a command:

Five spirits of the Water virtue measure out the primal one of life, nourish the essence and the demon of destiny. Within, it reaches the seven unions; Ren and Gui bring forth excellence and gather the Dao into the True. Ji ji ru lü ling.

Heavenly Lord of the Five Qi of the Black Emperor of the North, Ordinance

Promulgated on a stated day, month, and year of the Heavenly Cycle.

Talisman

Executed in the liturgy: Minister XXX, having received the decree, complies and carries it out.

Patriarch of the Orthodox Dragon Gate lineage, Heavenly Immortal Principal Laureate, Heavenly Lord Guangyuan Pudu: Witness and Attestation.

Yuqing Ordinance for Pacifying the Altar, Yellow Emperor of the Center

The following talisman is issued as a command:

The central lord governs the myriad spirits and the twelve primal perfected, governing the four heavens as a whole. Primal Origin, Jade Palace: above Heaven and below Earth, penetrating through without boundary. Ji ji ru lü ling.

Heavenly Lord of the One Qi of the Yellow Emperor of the Center, Ordinance

The year, month, and master's title are the same as above.

Note (for reading liturgical documents):

This text belongs to the pacifying-the-altar category of the Lingbao liturgy. Using the Yuqing (Jade Pure) commands, it invokes the Heavenly Lords of the five emperors of Azure, Red, White, Black, and Yellow, corresponding to the five directions (east, south, west, north, center) and the five phases (Wood, Fire, Metal, Water, Earth), along with their Qi (the Qi of the Way and of direction). Through talismanic orders, the altar is stabilized and the rite protected. Each passage mostly names the spirits, stars, and phase-virtues of its direction, such as fire-glow, Great White, and Water virtue, and closes with "Ji ji ru lü ling." The closing line "Patriarch of the Orthodox Dragon Gate lineage... Witness and Attestation" indicates that the document follows the transmission of the Quanzhen (Complete Perfection) Longmen school, with the named Heavenly Lord bearing witness to the rite. In the phrase "Minister XXX, having received the decree," the officiating priest fills in his own name during performance. The South entry's first line reads "Yuqing Red Emperor of the South," appearing alongside the heading "Azure Emperor of the East." This is a faithful copy of the original, and in practice the liturgy may use a separate page for the full Azure Emperor text, so readers should check it against the complete edition.

(Cloud-Seal of the Dragon-Ox Bearing the River, Stanza One)

The dragon-ox carries the River and guards the world, drives away evil and expels malign influences, and the True King descends. Myriad evils are wholly removed, the order of the world endures, and it will not decline for ten thousand ages.

(Cloud-Seal Memorial)

Qingling Shilao Jiuqi Tianjun (Azure Numinous Primordial Lord of the Nine Qi): We respectfully pray that at the Hour of Yin, when the Guest Star emerges and the sun rises in the east, its light will shine on the four quarters and all things will flourish as in spring. May merit be bestowed equally upon all creatures, gathering these myriad wonders into a shelter of protection. May the One Person who keeps the precious calendar embody utmost benevolence and the originating Yang of Qian, and never cease. Respectfully memorialized.

Proclaimed on the day of the Heavenly Cycle, year, month, and day.

Officiant of the ritual, Minister ○○, receives the decree and carries it out.

Witnessed and attested by the Honored One Who Broadly Aids and Universally Delivers, Foremost Scholar and Celestial Immortal of the Orthodox Longmen Lineage, Patriarch.

Celestial Authentic Writ of the Red Emperor who Subdues the South, of Yuqing (Jade Clarity)

The red writ commands the numinous, and the myriad methods open and flow through. Demons and ghosts are destroyed root and branch, and the world is free of calamity and disaster. The divine talisman and the jade script ensure that the Imperial Way will be abundant forever.

(Cloud-Seal Memorial)

Danling Zhenlao Sanqi Tianjun (Cinnabar Numinous True Elder, Lord of the Three Qi): We respectfully pray that the sage will face the light and set the standard for the myriad realms; that the Virtue of Fire will flourish and shine together with sun and moon; and that longevity will rival Mount Nan and endure as long as heaven and earth. Respectfully memorialized.

Proclaimed on the day of the Heavenly Cycle, year, month, and day.

Officiant of the ritual, Minister ○○, receives the decree and carries it out.

Witnessed and attested by the Honored One Who Broadly Aids and Universally Delivers, Foremost Scholar and Celestial Immortal of the Orthodox Longmen Lineage, Patriarch.

Celestial Authentic Writ of the White Emperor who Subdues the West, of Yuqing (Jade Clarity)

The Mysterious Woman with her white banner holds the talisman of the Purple Clarity. She bestows the mandate upon the jade steps and cuts down the hundred spirits. The world is made vast and peaceful, and the sovereign rests in tranquility.

(Cloud-Seal Memorial)

Haoling Huanglao Qiqi Tianjun (Luminous Numinous August Elder, Lord of the Seven Qi): We respectfully pray that the nine essences will be pure and unmixed, the seven Qi will be harmonious and peaceful, the three classes of farmers will suffer no harm, and the harvest will be abundant and full, so that all things are ever moistened by the grace of Dui. May the consorts, princes, palace ladies, and concubines share in the radiant blessings of the immortal mother; may the Tortoise Terrace record their good deeds; and may they assist the sovereign's governance and transformation and cultivate auspiciousness in the Phoenix Gate. Respectfully memorialized.

Proclaimed on the day of the Heavenly Cycle, year, month, and day.

Officiant of the ritual, Minister ○○, receives the decree and carries it out.

Witnessed and attested by the Great Perfected Qiu, Patriarch of the Orthodox Longmen Lineage, Foremost Scholar and Celestial Immortal.

Celestial Authentic Writ of the Black Emperor who Subdues the North, of Yuqing (Jade Clarity)

[The cloud-seal text of this section is cut off in the original source at this point and is not fully included.]

Heiling Beidi (the Black Spirit Northern Emperor, the deity who governs the north and presides over the Heavenly Gates) commands the Three Heavenly Gates, dispels calamities in the human world, and sweeps away demonic qi throughout the realm. The Shenxiao Yushu (Jade Writ of the Shenxiao Heaven, a talismanic document) protects the heavens and keeps them steady and unshaken. The above yunzhuan (cloud-seal script, talismanic writing in the form of cloud patterns) is submitted as a memorial to the heavens.

The Wuling Xuanlao Wuqi Tianjun (Celestial Lord of the Five Numinous Elders and Five Qi, the deity who governs the qi of the five directions and five phases) respectfully prays that the gaozhen (exalted perfected, a Daoist honorific for high-ranking immortals) will descend to observe. May the five auspicious qi spread their light, the stars gather around the Beichen (Northern Pole Star), and the sovereign's seat grow ever more secure. May the huangzhong qi (the pitch pipe qi of the yellow bell) nourish the primordial qi and protect the sovereign with boundless longevity. This memorial is respectfully submitted.

The year, month, and master's title are to be filled in as in the preceding section.

Jade Clarity Central Yellow Emperor Zhentian Wen (Celestial Writ for Pacifying the Heavens)

The Tianhuang (Heavenly Emperor) dispels evil qi and protects and guards the four quarters. With the might of hurled divine fire and molten metal, he clearly sweeps away all ill omens. May the decrees of Huanglao (the Yellow Emperor and Laozi, a Daoist honorific) keep the world peaceful for a long time. The above yunzhuan is submitted as a memorial to the heavens.

The Xuanling Yuanlao Yiqi Tianjun (Celestial Lord of the Mysterious Numinous Elder and the One Primordial Qi, the deity who governs the single primal qi) respectfully prays that blessings and joy will be complete throughout the three thousand great thousand worlds, and that the calamities of the bailiu (the "Hundred-and-Sixth" calamities, a period of danger at the turn of yin and yang) will be quelled. May the imperial ancestral temples receive the blessings of the immortal perfected for generations, may the winds and rains come in good season, and may grace extend to the people of all nations, so that the state endures in peace and the sovereign's years are increased. This memorial is respectfully submitted.

Fill in the heavenly year, month, and day. The minister so-and-so, who practices this liturgy, will carry it out according to the rites upon receiving the command. The patriarch, the Longmen Zhengzong Tianxian Zhuangyuan Guangyuan Pudu Tianzun (Celestial Venerable of Universal Salvation, Champion Immortal of the Orthodox Longmen Lineage), serves as the witnessing deity.

Jade Clarity East Quadrant Anni Zhendi Zhentian Wen (Celestial Writ for Settling Heaven and Stabilizing Earth, East)

This is hereby proclaimed: in the Shiqing Heaven of the nine qi of the east (the nine primordial qi of the east), the Qingling Shilao Jiuqi Tianjun (Celestial Lord of the Ancient Green Numinous Elder and Nine Qi, the deity who governs the vital qi of the east) commands a perfected to take up the brush and cast the power of the talismanic script down into the human body. This will bring the virtue of Wood (the virtue belonging to the east in the Five Phases) into a graceful and fine qi, enabling cultivators to join with the Great Dao and accord with the True Dao. Act swiftly in accordance with the statutes.

Fill in the heavenly year, month, and day. The minister so-and-so, who practices this liturgy, will carry it out according to the rites upon receiving the command. The patriarch, the Zhengyi Jingying Xianyou Zhenjun of the Three Heavens Fujiao (True Lord of Orthodox Unity who Protects the Teaching of the Three Heavens), Zhang so-and-so, serves as the witnessing deity.

Jade Clarity South Quadrant Anni Zhendi Zhentian Wen (Celestial Writ for Settling Heaven and Stabilizing Earth, South)

This is hereby proclaimed: within the Three Heavens of the south and the Red Emperor's Vermilion Heaven, the Danling Zhenlao Sanqi Tianjun (Celestial Lord of the Vermilion Numinous Elder and Three Qi, the deity who governs the fire qi of the south), together with the Siming Silu and the Jiangque Zunshen (the venerable deities who govern longevity and emolument), will cause the qi of Fire (the virtue of fire) to shine bright and fine, enabling cultivators to join with the Great Dao and accord with the True Dao. Act swiftly in accordance with the statutes.

The year, month, and master's title are to be filled in as in the preceding section.

Jade Clarity West Quadrant Anni Zhendi Zhentian Wen (Celestial Writ for Settling Heaven and Stabilizing Earth, West)

This is hereby proclaimed.

The Western Seven Qi Section

Let it be solemnly proclaimed downward: the Seven Qi of the West (the Qi of the Western Metal direction), the Heaven of Great White (the celestial realm governed by Venus), the Venerable Old Lord of Radiant Numinosity, and the Heavenly Lords of the Seven Qi. Their office is to register names and settle the hun and po souls within the registers, to govern the stilling of the lung spirit (Shen), and to embody the Virtue (De) of Metal, which is firm and refined, and so to converge with the Dao and unite with the Real (Zhen). Swift, swift, as the statute commands. The year, month, and master's title are as stated above.

The Jade Clarity True Writ for Settling Heaven and Pacifying Earth: The Northern Direction

Let it be solemnly proclaimed: the Five Qi of the North, the Heaven of Mysterious Centre, the Venerable Old Lords of the Five Numinosities, and the Heavenly Lords of the Five Qi. Their office is to pursue and gather the living and to deliver the dead, to govern the stilling of the kidney spirit (Shen), and to embody the Virtue of Water, which is good and refined, and so to converge with the Dao and unite with the Real. Swift, swift, as the statute commands. Proclaimed on a certain day of a certain month of a certain year of the celestial cycle. Carried out according to the expedient liturgy by the official so-and-so, who has received the decree and executes it. Grand Master of the Great Perfected: the Zhang so-and-so, Perfected Lord of Triple Heaven, Upholder of the Teaching, Orthodox Unity (Zhengyi), Quiet Response, and Manifest Protection, who bears witness to the oath.

The Jade Clarity True Writ for Settling Heaven and Pacifying Earth: The Central Direction

Let it be solemnly proclaimed: the Central Qi, the Twelve Heavens, the Venerable Primal Lords of Numinosity, and the Twelve Heavenly Lords. Their office is to compile and collate the registers, which means to gather the total record of names and verify the ranks, to govern the stilling of the spleen spirit (Shen), and to embody the Virtue of Earth, which is steadfast and refined, and so to converge with the Dao and unite with the Real. Swift, swift, as the statute commands. Proclaimed on a certain day of a certain month of a certain year of the celestial cycle. The master's title is as before.

Yin Offering for Granting Boundaries at the Celestial Altar

Today, in the Great Retreat of the Supreme Yellow Register (Huanglu) held at this altar, on behalf of the filial devotee so-and-so, who has established this retreat in honour of the Dao, we petition for the construction of one altar of the Supreme so-and-so, to be conducted according to the present liturgy for granting boundaries, and we request that the talismans be prepared. The following talisman is proclaimed: the Heavenly Lord of such-and-such direction and Qi is to descend to grant boundaries, guard the altar, and deliver the soul of the deceased so-and-so, so that the soul may soon depart the Yin Palace and ascend to the realm of the immortals, in full accord with the command of the talisman. The names of the Heavenly Lords of the five directions (East, South, West, North, and Centre) are to be written according to the characters of their taboo names; for example, the East is written with the split components of certain characters. Proclaimed on a certain day of a certain month of a certain year of the celestial cycle. Received and held by the Heavenly Lord of such-and-such direction and Qi.

Yang Offering for Granting Boundaries at the Clear Offering

At the Clear Offering (Qingjiao) of the Supreme so-and-so held at this altar, on behalf of the filial devotee so-and-so, who has established this retreat in honour of the Dao, we petition for the construction of an altar. The structure of the liturgy corresponds to that of the Yin Offering, with emphasis on the granting of boundaries in the Yang and Clear Offerings. The talismanic proclamation, the delivery of the deceased, and the intent of ascent to the immortal realm are the same as above.

Plain Interpretation

The Daoist Jiao Association (min) and all the local families, on this day, are holding one offering of the Supreme Northern Emperor Pacifying Demons and Peace Jiao (jiao, a Daoist ritual for prayer and the averting of calamity), performed according to the pacification rites of this district. The sacred talismans have already been presented in petition.

The following talisman is issued as a proclamation: the (name) Quarter (name) Qi Heavenly Lord descends to the ritual altar, bears witness to the covenant, and receives the offering. The Lord dissolves obstruction and stagnation, turns calamity into blessing, removes disaster and sends good fortune, transforms adversity into peace, keeps the local officials calm, keeps the region at peace, and keeps the people secure and their goods abundant, with the fourfold virtues of supreme good fortune, yuan heng li zhen.

As decreed, dispatched with the speed of wind and fire.

Issued on the (year) day of the heavenly cycle, in the (month) month, on the (day) day.

The (name) Quarter (name) Qi Heavenly Lord.

East nine qi, South three qi, West seven qi, North five qi, Center one qi.

Heavenly Altar Five-Direction Banners

East, South, West, North, and Center (banner forms omitted).

Earth-Heaven Altar True Talisman

Thanking-the-Earth Talisman Form

House-Pacifying Talisman

Five-direction talismans for East, South, West, North, and Center (forms omitted).

Nine Palaces Talisman

True Talisman for Pacifying the Kan Palace

This talisman is issued as a proclamation. By the command of the Northern Shaking-Heaven Primordial Sage: Om hum cha li. May the myriad spirits arrive swiftly, the auspicious gate open wide, and the malevolent killers hide and vanish. This talisman command is issued to keep the dwelling permanently secure.

As decreed, dispatched with the speed of wind and fire.

Issued on the (year) day of the heavenly cycle, in the (month) month, on the (day) day.

Executed by the ritual officer (minister), who received the decree and carries it out. The Ancestral Master of the Three Heavens, Great Ritual Master of the Fu Jiao, Perfected Zhang (Zhang Zhenjun), presides as chief witness.

True Talisman for Pacifying the Kun Palace

This talisman is issued as a proclamation. At the Heavenly Center, the Great Gate (Ju Men) and the Four Nets send down the decree. Thunder is summoned to stir, and the eight killers withdraw. Om hum cha li: demons and malevolent spirits, withdraw. This talisman command is issued to pacify and guard the dwelling.

As decreed, dispatched with the speed of wind and fire. (The title follows the same form as above.)

True Talisman for Pacifying the Zhen Palace

This talisman is issued as a proclamation. (The format is similar to the Kan and Kun palace talismans; it is the talisman command for pacifying the dwelling of the Zhen Palace.)

Notes for ease of reading:

Jiao refers to a Daoist ritual altar and offering for prayer and the averting of misfortune. The Pacifying Demons and Peace Jiao invokes the Northern Emperor, the deity of the north who is often responsible for subduing demons, to subdue evil and secure peace. Qi here refers either to the celestial qi of the directions or to the corresponding Heavenly Lords, such as the East Nine-Qi Heavenly Lord. Pacifying and guarding the house means using talismans and proclamations to settle a dwelling and expel malevolent killers. The Kan, Kun, and Zhen palaces are three of the Eight Trigrams (Bagua): Kan is north, Kun is southwest, and Zhen is east. Each talisman corresponds to a different deity name and incantation, such as Om hum cha li. "As decreed, dispatched with the speed of wind and fire" means the order travels as swiftly as wind and fire. Perfected Zhang is the patriarch revered by the Celestial Master lineage, and here serves as the Great Ritual Master presiding over the Jiao.

Most of the source consists of talisman titles, directional qi counts, and fixed proclamation formulas. In an actual rite, the Daoist priest fills in the Heavenly Lord's name, the date, and the names of the officiating ritual officers before performing the rite.

This scripture records a set of household protection talismans (fulu) from the Daoist "Lingbao Ritual Texts," primarily used for exorcising evil and safeguarding domestic peace. Each talisman corresponds to a specific direction (Xun Palace, Central Palace, Qian Palace, etc., representing the eight trigrams/bagua) and invokes the power of particular deities to suppress malevolent forces.

For example, the talisman for the Eastern Earth Mansion states: When the thunder roars, all evil spirits will flee and hide. Under the command of the Auspicious Star Lord Lùcún (one of the Seven Stars of the Northern Dipper), what malevolent force dares to approach? O Earth Deities of the East, dispel all calamities. Once this talismanic decree is issued, it shall eternally bless the household with peace and prosperity. Like the edict of the Supreme Venerable Sovereign (Taishang Laojun), it is swiftly transmitted through the "Wind-Fire Courier" (a Daoist method for delivering talismanic commands).

The Central Palace talisman describes: The Yellow Dragon (guardian deity of the center) rests in tranquil authority, its radiance illuminating all directions. Disasters retreat swiftly, and all misfortunes vanish without a trace. When the mantra "Ōṃ Hūṃ Lī Śa" is recited, auspicious clouds and luminous rays manifest. Upon issuing this decree, it shall forever safeguard the household in tranquility.

Other directional talismans follow a similar structure:

• The Qian Palace (Northwest) summons the Martial Star Lord Wǔqǔ of the Celestial Heart, wielding a sword to expel evil.
• The Dui Palace (West) employs crimson clouds and auspicious light to banish malign forces.
• The Gen Palace (Northeast) uses the mantra "Ōṃ Dì Yè Luó" to sever ghosts and destroy demonic essences.
• The Li Palace (South) calls upon the Vermilion Bird and the Fire Star Lord to eradicate plagues.

Each talisman concludes by emphasizing the authoritative proclamation "By the decree of this talisman," demanding that evil spirits immediately disperse, while promising blessings such as "peace for all beings" (人物咸亨) and "prosperity for generations" (百世其昌).

These talismans are marked to be issued on specific dates, transmitted swiftly via the "Wind-Fire Courier" to reach the respective deities—reflecting the Daoist cosmology of "resonance between Heaven and humanity" (天人感应) in talismanic practice.

Officiant of the Liturgy (name), receiving the decree, carries it out.

Ancestral Master, Great Dharma Master Lord Zhang of the Three Heavens, Aide to the Teaching, presiding over the oath.

Fire Jiao Talisman Forms

Supreme Lingbao (Mi'e Yudan) True Talisman for Dispelling Calamity and Averting Fire

This talisman is proclaimed and issued in accordance with the decree.

At the Palace Court of the Mysterious Qi of Northern Yin Yudan, the Imperial Perfected meet and join. The Jade Maiden of Night Light and the Golden Youth hold the charts and registers and restrain the traces of demons. The Void and Peril constellations move together, purple vapor surges, and the wind rises. The precious Jing is refined and nurtured, and the Later Heaven does not end. Thus, so (complete and unobstructed).

Decree Dispatched by Wind and Fire Relay

Issued on the day of the month in the year Xinhai of the Heavenly Cycle.

Officiant of the Liturgy (your servant), receiving the decree, carries it out.

Ancestral Master, Great Dharma Master Lord Zhang of the Three Heavens, Aide to the Teaching, Wise Responder and Manifest Protector, witnessing the oath.

Supreme Lingbao Red Essence Nine Dragons True Talisman for Dispelling Calamity and Averting Fire

This talisman is proclaimed and issued.

The essence of the three Qi of blazing fire in the south. The watery Qi moistens the ghosts, the flames subside and sink, and their roots and traces are extinguished and concealed. Halls and eaves are clear and tranquil, offenses and faults are pardoned, and household and state alike prosper. Everything under the heavenly mandate is bathed in the emperor's grace. The people are at peace and secure, and forever preserved in benefit and rectitude. Thus, so.

Decree Dispatched by Wind and Fire Relay

Year and month as above; the master's title is the same as before.

Supreme Lingbao Jade Fan for Dispelling Dissolving Wind and Averting Fire True Talisman

This talisman is proclaimed and issued.

The True Elder of Changyang and the Venerable Spirit of Red Numen together look up to the Cinnabar Heaven and regulate the host of demons. They solemnly drive the vermilion phoenix and the three-horned qilin, refine the three Qi with fire, coil the crimson clouds, nourish the cinnabar palace, and preserve it forever. Benefit reaches humans and heavens, fortune and emolument flourish. Thus, so.

Decree Dispatched by Wind and Fire Relay

Issued on the day of the month in the year of the Heavenly Cycle.

Officiant of the Liturgy (your servant), receiving the decree, carries it out.

Ancestral Master, Great Dharma Master Lord Zhang of the Three Heavens, Aide to the Teaching, Wise Responder and Manifest Protector, witnessing the oath.

Dan-gang Oath of Fire (Morning, Noon, Evening)

Taiyi Holy Perfected True Talisman for Averting Fire

This talisman is proclaimed and issued by talismanic command.

The presiding deity of this locality, who illuminates and oversees it, has accepted the talismanic command in full. It is hereby specially promulgated and put into effect.

Notes for Reading the Ritual Documents

Fire Jiao: A category of Daoist liturgy performed specifically to counter fire disasters and fire hazards within the broader practice of averting calamity.

Talisman Forms: The fixed written formats of the talismans, together with their accompanying incantations.

Issued by Decree / Decree Dispatched by Wind and Fire Relay: Follows the format of heavenly decrees, as though the document were sent by urgent courier, carried by wind and fire.

Presiding / Witnessing the Oath: The ritual roles of the deity or ritual master who presides over and witnesses the sworn oath.

Lord Zhang: Usually refers to the ancestral masters of the Celestial Master lineage. In this text, he appears as the witness named in the oath.

Thus, so (yiru): A closing formula common in Daoist liturgy, meaning complete, in accord with the Dao, and lacking nothing.

This is a Daoist talismanic document (fulu) for disaster aversion (xiaozai), specifically designed to suppress fires. The text invokes multiple Daoist deities as witnesses and enforcers of this ritual.

The document first petitions Heaven to regulate the cosmic order (天地经纬) and pacify fire disasters below. When the ominous signs of the Sparkling Deluder star (荧惑星, ancient astrological marker of fires) dissipate, human affairs will flourish, nations prosper, all beings thrive in peace, and deities will obey commands to dispel inauspicious influences.

Issued under the celestial calendar as "Heavenly Mandate [year/month/date]," the document is executed by a ritual master (法师) performing keyi (科仪, liturgy). The Primordial Holy Mother Taiyi Yuanjun (九天圣母太一元君, foremost Daoist goddess) serves as witness. This "Primordial Fire-Suppressing Jade Talisman" (元始保制火运玉文真符) was bestowed by the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning (元始天尊, highest Daoist deity) specifically for fire suppression.

Subsequent commands mobilize city gods (城隍), earth deities (社令), and the Grand Year God (太岁神) to enforce the Primordial天尊's decree—extinguishing fires spontaneously while maintaining cosmic harmony, transcending calamities, and purifying the underworld.

Identical directives are sent to southern regions, summoning local temple deities to suppress fires with "jade talismans" (玉符), ensuring mountains cease smoking and the ten directions regain purity.

A special mandate targets the Wood-aligned eastern方位 (东方甲位), commanding the Flame-Sovereign Deity (郁攸尊神) to deploy the "Jade Clarity Fire-Quelling Talisman" (玉清镇灭火运真符) for perpetual stability. Each document bears witness by Celestial Master Zhang Daoling (正一真君张道陵, founder of Tianshi Dao) and carries the "Eightfold Crimson Seal" (丹罡八镇) imprint.

Transmitted via Daoism's unique "wind-fire courier system" (风火驿传), the entire document exemplifies the solemnity and sacred precision of Daoist disaster-aversion rituals.

Vernacular Interpretation

The Patriarch, the Three-Heavens Teaching Lord and True Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang (Zhang Daoling, revered as the founding patriarch of the Daoist Zhengyi school) certifies and seals this covenant (here, bearing witness to the talismanic mandate and affixing the covenant seal):

True Talisman of the Jade Purity Realm for Suppressing and Quelling the Fire Cycle

This talisman is issued below in accordance with the ritual procedure:

Revered Spirit Yingyan, Chief of Registers and Director of the Fire Affairs, who presents memorials from the Bing position in the South (Bing, a Heavenly Stem symbolizing fire and corresponding to the southern direction), is hereby authorized:

In accordance with the Jade Writ (the talismanic mandate issued from the Jade Purity Realm), quell and subdue the calamity of fire. Let the source of the disaster bind itself and perish. Set the measure of Heaven’s divisions aright. Preserve peace through the cycle of tribulation and ensure its continuance. Let the hidden realms and wisdom be thoroughly clear.

Vast and mysterious beyond measure (a closing blessing expressing immense mystery)

May all be fulfilled exactly as commanded.

By imperial mandate, dispatch this urgently through the wind-and-fire relay.

In the year, month, and day of Heaven’s cycle, this is issued below.

(I), servant responsible for carrying out the ritual proceedings as appropriate, receive the mandate and carry it out.

The Patriarch, the Three-Heavens Teaching Lord and True Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang　　　　　　　　　　certifies and seals this covenant

True Talisman of the Jade Purity Realm for Suppressing and Quelling the Fire Cycle

The talisman above is issued below:

Revered Spirit of Separation Fire, Chief of Registers and Director who presents memorials from the Geng position in the West (the West corresponds to Geng), is hereby authorized:

The Jade Writ shall quell and subdue the calamity of fire. Let the source of the disaster bind itself and perish. Set the measure of Heaven’s divisions aright. Preserve peace through the cycle of tribulation and ensure its continuance. Let the hidden realms and wisdom be thoroughly clear.

Vast and mysterious beyond measure. May all be fulfilled exactly as commanded.

By imperial mandate, dispatch this urgently through the wind-and-fire relay.

The date, ritual office, and master’s title are entered as above.

True Talisman of the Jade Purity Realm for Suppressing and Quelling the Fire Cycle

The talisman above is issued below:

Revered Spirit of the Black City, Chief of Registers and Director who presents memorials from the Ren position in the North (the North corresponds to Ren), is hereby authorized:

The Jade Writ shall quell and subdue the calamity of fire. Let the source of the disaster bind itself and perish. Set the measure of Heaven’s divisions aright. Preserve peace through the cycle of tribulation and ensure its continuance. Let the hidden realms and wisdom be thoroughly clear.

Vast and mysterious beyond measure. May all be fulfilled exactly as commanded.

By imperial mandate, dispatch this urgently through the wind-and-fire relay.

In the year, month, and day of Heaven’s cycle, this is issued below.

(I), servant responsible for carrying out the ritual proceedings as appropriate, receive the mandate and carry it out.

The Patriarch, the Three-Heavens Teaching Lord and True Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang　　　　　　　　　　certifies and seals this covenant

True Talisman of the Jade Purity Realm for Suppressing, Purifying, and Quelling the Fire Cycle (“suppressing and purifying” is used alongside “suppressing and quelling” to emphasize purifying and restraining the fire cycle)

The talisman above is issued below:

Revered Spirit of Fan Can, Chief of Registers and Director who presents memorials from the Gui position in the Northeast (the Northeast corresponds to Gui; this deity oversees the rotating roster of officials), is hereby authorized:

The Jade Writ shall quell and subdue the calamity of fire. Let the source of the disaster bind itself and perish. Set the measure of Heaven’s divisions aright. Preserve peace through the cycle of tribulation and ensure its continuance. Let the hidden realms and wisdom be thoroughly clear.

Vast and mysterious beyond measure. May all be fulfilled exactly as commanded.

By imperial mandate, dispatch this urgently through the wind-and-fire relay.

In the year, month, and day of Heaven’s cycle, this is issued below.

(I), servant responsible for carrying out the ritual proceedings as appropriate, receive the mandate and carry it out.

Note: This passage follows the format of an official proclamation used in Lingbao ritual, issuing true talismans to the fire deities of the four directions—south, west, north, and northeast—to suppress and quell the fire cycle. There is one document for each direction. The wording is largely the same; only the direction, Heavenly Stem, and name of the presiding deity differ. During the ritual, the specific year, month, and day of Heaven’s cycle, along with the ritual officiant’s office and title, must be entered.

The following is a modern plain-language interpretation of this passage from the Lingbao Wenjian, explaining it according to the structure of the original.

The Ancestor, Master of the Three Heavens and True Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang … serves as witness and guarantor

(“Ancestor” means a founding master revered in Daoism. The Master of the Three Heavens and True Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang, is the ancestral figure who serves as witness and guarantor in the line of the Celestial Masters.)

True Talisman of the Jade Purity for Suppressing and Extinguishing the Fire Cycle

(Jade Purity is one of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing) realms. Here, the phrase refers to a true talisman issued by the Jade Purity realm to suppress disasters, extinguish fires, and turn back the Fire Cycle.)

The talisman at right is hereby proclaimed and transmitted downward

(The command written on the talisman at right is formally conveyed and promulgated to those below.)

The talisman at right is hereby proclaimed and transmitted downward

To the honored spirits and deities responsible for submitting records and governing demons at the Yi position in the southeast: act in accordance with this authorization, as stated above.

(The command is sent to the Yi position in the southeast, addressing the demons, honored spirits, and deities responsible for submitting records and governing that direction, and authorizing them to act as instructed above.)

True Talisman of the Jade Purity for Suppressing and Extinguishing the Fire Cycle

The talisman at right is hereby proclaimed and transmitted downward

To the honored Fire Star deity responsible for submitting records and governing at the Ding position in the southwest: act in accordance with this authorization.

(As above, the command is sent to the Ding position in the southwest, where the honored Fire Star deity—who governs the planet Mars and disasters caused by fire—is to carry it out.)

By the jade text, fire calamities are extinguished and subdued, and the source of disaster is bound and destroyed. The divisions of Heaven are set back in proper order, and the long course of the kalpa is preserved. Hidden wisdom shines through in utter clarity.

(According to the text of the Jade Purity talisman, fire disasters are extinguished and subdued, and their source is destroyed. The divisions of the Way of Heaven are restored to their proper order, the course of the kalpa is preserved for the long term, and wisdom in the hidden realm shines through with clarity.)

Vast and profound, profound beyond measure; all is one with the Dao.

(Immense and mysterious, it is one with the body of the Dao, without distinction.)

This proclamation is to be carried by the wind and fire couriers.

(The proclamation is to be carried in all directions like a relay message, swift as wind and fire.)

Issued on the _ day of the _ month, in the ___ year of the Heavenly Cycle.

(Formally promulgated on a specified day, month, and year of the Heavenly Cycle.)

The officiating ministers … receive this proclamation and carry it out in accordance with the rites.

(The officiating ministers receive the proclamation and carry it out in accordance with the rites and the instructions entrusted to them.)

The Ancestor, Master of the Three Heavens and True Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang … serves as witness and guarantor

True Talisman of the Jade Purity for Suppressing and Extinguishing the Fire Cycle

The talisman at right is hereby proclaimed and transmitted downward

To the honored deity Mingzhi, responsible for submitting records and governing at the Xin position in the northwest: act in accordance with this authorization, as stated above.

(The command is sent to the Xin position in the northwest, addressing the honored deity Mingzhi, who is responsible for submitting records and governing there, and authorizing the deity to act as instructed above.)

The date, ritual office, and master’s title are as stated above.

(The date, ritual office, master’s title, and other details follow the same format as in the previous section.)

Official Document

Official document from the Altar of the Supreme Primordial Origin …

(An official document issued by the Altar of the Supreme Primordial Origin.)

To all honored deities belonging to the Southern Fire Department

(Addressed to the honored deities under the authority of the Southern Fire Department.)

With reverence, we reflect:

(A phrase expressing respectful contemplation.)

The talismanic command of the Primordial Beginning and the edict of the Three Heavens: a single good word can alter the baleful course of Mars, which governs fire disasters and warfare. When wrongdoing is forgiven through the Three Pardons, even the Thunder deities reveal their benevolence by bringing release.

(The talismanic command of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning and the edict issued by the Three Heavens teach that a word of goodness can turn aside the baleful influence of Mars, which the ancients associated with fire disasters and warfare. When wrongdoing is pardoned through the Three Pardons, the Thunder deities too show their benevolence by granting relief.)

We consider how the sage and the mad person can be difficult to distinguish, and how fortune and calamity may arise from one another. Only when the mind is wholly sincere can it reach downward into the myriad worlds.

(The sage and the mad person may be difficult to distinguish in the space between good and evil; fortune and calamity can also depend on one another and exchange places. Only with a wholly sincere and unified mind can one make contact with the heavens, which then reveal themselves to the myriad worlds.)

When the seven emotions and six desires stir into delusion, even a small thing can bring a boat to sink beneath the weight of its kingfisher feathers. When the Four Great Elements—earth, water, fire, and wind—and the Five Phases (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) continually overcome one another, one may be like a deer cart trapped in a hollow, with no way out.

(Deluded activity of the seven emotions and six desires can turn a small matter into a great calamity, like a boat capsizing under the burden of its kingfisher-feather ornaments. As the Four Great Elements and the Five Phases overcome one another without end, a person may become like a deer cart trapped in a hollow, unable to escape.)

We therefore promulgate these provisions for deliverance, to carry the world through a time of upheaval. Command those fire deities, including Yuyou, to receive and carry out this instruction, so that fire calamities may be brought to completion and passed through in accordance with Heaven’s order, turning toward good fortune and bringing peace to the world.

(For this reason, provisions for deliverance are promulgated to carry the world through a turbulent age. The fire deities, including Yuyou, are commanded to receive the instruction and carry it out, so that fire calamities may be resolved and, through the proper order of Heaven, give way to good fortune and peace in the world.)

We, the undersigned ministers, now reside in the Great Han realm, in Sichuan Province, on the _ circuit, in the _ district. We uphold the Dao and practice goodness; with sincere hearts, we offer rites in gratitude to Heaven and Earth, submit petitions seeking grace, avert the baleful influence of Mars and repent our offenses, and pray in advance for peace in the age to come and the arrival of good fortune for the people below.

(The ministers state that they reside in a specified circuit and district of Sichuan Province in the Great Han realm. They uphold the Dao and practice goodness, offer sincere rites of gratitude to Heaven and Earth, submit petitions for grace, avert the baleful influence of Mars, repent their offenses, and pray for future peace and good fortune for the people.)

Those named and included above shall, on this day, burn incense, take refuge, and dedicate their lives.

(The people named above, and all others included, shall burn incense that day, take refuge, and dedicate their lives in prayer.)

This interpretation aims to stay close to the original purpose of the official document and talismanic commands: the True Talisman of the Jade Purity for extinguishing fire reaches the honored deities in every direction, while the document from the Altar of the Primordial Origin explains the reasons and ritual purpose of averting the baleful influence of Mars, extinguishing fire calamities, and praying for peace.

This is a passage from a Lingbao Daoist Zhaijiao document, a petition-and-talisman text of the “Thanking Heaven for Its Grace and Praying for Blessings” type. Its general meaning is as follows.

Taishang Dangang Eightfold Protection Rite to Avert Misfortune, Thank Heaven for Its Grace, Pray for Blessings, and Preserve Peace—a complete Zhaijiao rite offered to Heaven—has been performed in due order, by day and by night, according to the Keyi. On the appointed day, its merits were brought to completion. To dispel calamities and protect the people’s peace, this bureau, having received the petition, must act accordingly: present each matter to Heaven in accordance with the Keyi, submit a petition to the offices of the spirits, and request permission to transfer and disperse the calamities elsewhere. Approval has now been granted for the issuance of the Jade Clarity True Talisman of the Fire Virtue for Averting Calamity, which must therefore be announced and put into effect.

In accordance with the talismanic command of the Most High, may past sins and transgressions be pardoned. All living people are prone to indulge their minds in the Five Desires—desires for sights, sounds, scents, tastes, and touch. Their eyes covet the Five Colors, their ears delight in the Five Tones, their noses cannot constantly perceive wondrous fragrance, and their tongues cannot always savor jade-like flavors. Gains and losses, advantage and harm, unsettle their thoughts; hardness and softness, clarity and turbidity, disturb their hearts. Their goodness does not amount to the slightest measure, while their evil deeds pile up like hills and mountains. Malefic stars shine upon them and wear down their bodies, while ghosts and spirits record their merits and faults in the registers of the underworld. Unaware, ordinary people pass their whole lives without awakening. Therefore, we gather people together to repent as is proper: before the incense, we reflect on our faults; in our free hours, we strive to dispel our transgressions. With those above and below united in purpose, benefiting both humanity and Heaven, the brightness of Heaven’s principles may at last be seen, and the accumulated habits of worldly life washed away. May a thousand kinds of transgression all be pardoned and forgiven.

Alas! De is rooted in cherishing life and generously bestowing grace that cleanses blemishes. Merit is surely of great importance; why, then, not raise people up and guide them onto the path of goodness? May the Three Calamities and Nine Afflictions—great disasters of Heaven, Earth, and Water, and all manner of tribulations—be entirely removed, and may a hundred blessings and a thousand auspicious signs gather together: grace reaching a thousand households, kindness flowing through the four quarters.

When the talismanic command arrives, those responsible shall carry it out. The petition is submitted as stated above; the officials in charge shall be instructed to comply accordingly.

[Title with missing or tabooed characters] is copied and issued for circulation throughout the year, its transformative influence reaching all the spirits under its jurisdiction: the City God, the Community Land Deity, and the spirits of the local districts. All are hereby commanded to take notice and promptly carry out these instructions. Upon receipt of this petition, comply with the decree. So ordered.

In the year, month, and day of the Heavenly Cycle

The official in charge of conducting the Jiao rite (minister)　　　　　Issued for implementation

True Lord, Censor of the Celestial Pivot; True Lord, Inner Censor of the Celestial Pivot; True Lord, High Censor of the Celestial Pivot; High Censor of Great Mystery; Daoist Lord of the Immortal Realm of Great Clarity

Jade Clarity True Talisman for Averting Calamity and Appealing to Heaven’s Grace　The talisman is hereby issued

By decree of the Jade Emperor: may the Fire Bells gather in their flames, and may the Sweet Dew fall cool and clear—putting out fires and bringing down gentle rain.

Explanation: This text is issued after a Jiao rite has been completed. Following Lingbao conventions, it petitions Heaven, issues a talisman for implementation, and commands the City God, Community Land Deity, and other spirits to carry out its instructions. Its central themes are repentance for the Five Desires, release from the afflictions recorded in the registers of the underworld and brought by malefic stars, and prayers for a hundred blessings and a thousand auspicious signs to spread throughout the four quarters. The title rendered as “[Title with missing or tabooed characters]” contains characters missing from the original book or omitted as a taboo. The translation marks this uncertainty without attempting to supply them.

This passage is a liturgical document from the Daoist Lingbao Wenjian (Spiritual Treasure Ritual Manual), primarily addressing the elimination of misfortunes through talismans (Fulu) and rituals.

The opening references "the True Source of Taiyi" and "the Essence of the Northern Emperor" allude to the divine powers of Taiyi Jiuku Tianzun (Heavenly Lord Taiyi the Savior from Suffering) and Beiyin Fengdu Dadi (Great Emperor of Fengdu in the Northern Yin). Phrases like "ten thousand acres of water springs" describe harnessing the Virtue (De) of Water to suppress fire disasters—here, the "Black Emperor" represents the Water God of the North, while the "Five Thunder Envoys" are divine generals governing thunder methods (Leifa), capable of overturning heaven and earth to extinguish flames.

The text details various talismanic methods: the "Fire-Star Gathering Talisman" captures fiery malevolence; the "Fire-Atonement Jar-Sealing Talisman" must be affixed to fire-damaged areas; and the "Five Thunder Home-Protection Talisman" employs the Tianpeng Ruler (a Daoist ritual tool made of thunder-struck jujube wood) for suppression. These talismans must be executed according to the Guangcheng Liturgical System (Daoist ceremonial protocols).

The latter section presents document templates addressed to hierarchical deities, mandating compliance from the "Three Officials and Nine Bureaus" (the celestial, earthly, and aquatic administrations with their subordinate offices) and the "Eastern Sacred Mountain Administration" (the divine bureaucracy of Mount Tai). Notably, it specifies a Republican-era ritual held in Sichuan, where devotees burned incense, offered prayers to confess transgressions, and invoked divine grace to beseech local peace and prosperity.

The recurrent phrase "strictly as decreed" (yiru gaoming) reflects standard Daoist documentary formula, denoting "complete obedience to the mandate." The concluding line *"End of Lingbao Wenjian, Scroll Eleven"* confirms this as the eleventh volume of the classic, preserved at Chengdu’s Two Immortals Abbey (Erxian An). The entire scripture exemplifies Daoist religious praxis of aiding humanity through talismanic liturgy (Keyi) and ritual.

A Plain-Language Interpretation of an Excerpt from the Lingbao Document Register

Our office has received this matter. The work undertaken for the people’s benefit and relief has been completed, and a memorial has been presented to Heaven, as well as a report to the provincial and mountain deities who govern this region. We are also deeply concerned that the assembly’s members face grave retribution for their offenses and bear many burdens from past deeds. We therefore petition for the issuance of the Heavenly Emperor’s Dragon Script—an imperial pardon handwritten by the Celestial Emperor—and request a Pardon Edict to preserve the lives of all.

May Heaven open wide its compassionate heart and leave its blessings among the people. May it remove faults bound up with their allotted lifespans and pardon every transgression, whether from a previous life or this one. Some have fallen into sin through failures of filial piety, brotherly respect, loyalty, or trustworthiness; others have incurred guilt by falling short of ritual propriety, righteousness, integrity, or a sense of shame. Evil thoughts—greed, anger, delusion, and attachment—accumulate day after day until the wrongs of a thousand people and a hundred households cannot be measured with scales, rulers, or bushels: falsehood and flowery speech, harsh words and sowing discord, open concealment and secret deception, taking lives and killing living beings. Once these deeds have been examined and recorded by the underworld authorities, those who are found out will face torture and illness, whether or not the evidence has been settled and the case brought to light; the severity will vary.

Wherever the Pardon Edict arrives, all original sins are to be pardoned. The Celestial Emperor cherishes life and will not pursue past offenses; the sages cherish all beings and open the gate of pardon.

This proclamation instructs the gods who carry out the work of the Departments of Pestilence and Fire, which govern epidemics and fires: honor fully the vow of compassion and let go of every intent to cause harm. As anger clears and might is withdrawn, quietly dispel and contain the poisons.

It further instructs the officials serving under these departments to turn their banners and withdraw their forces, and the soldiers under their command to destroy their camps and dismantle their strongholds. Provisions for the journey are to be arranged; do not linger for the scenery here. Remember: Those who follow Heaven survive; those who oppose Heaven perish.

May all who are addressed by this edict obey it with due reverence. This proclamation is hereby directed to the revered gods of the Departments of Pestilence and Fire for verification and execution.

In the year, month, and day of the Heavenly Cycle, the edict is issued. I, your servant, am charged with carrying out the rites as circumstances require under the registers of the Three Caverns of Shangqing. I am ignorant and filled with fear and trembling; I bow my head repeatedly, prostrate myself a hundred times, and humbly petition:

• The Great Emperor, Heavenly Sovereign of the South Pole
• The Great Emperor, Primordial Lord of the Northern Pole
• The Celestial Worthy of the Threefold Samadhi of Dongyuan
• The True Lord Zhang, Patriarch, High Minister of the Three Heavens, Great Master Who Supports and Teaches the Dharma (usually Zhang the Celestial Master, who serves as witness)

With the office title “Department of Purple Tenuity Pardons under the Three Heavens,” we respectfully receive the Dao’s instruction and petition for the issuance and announcement of a Purple Tenuity Pardon under the Three Heavens.

Among the 120 administrative offices under the Three Officials and Nine Departments, the Eastern Peak Taishan Prefecture has eighty-one bureaus and five additional supervisors. The offices that assess conduct and reckon merits and faults in the twelfth lunar month, the governing bureaus where the Three Bureaus—the offices of the Officials of Heaven, Earth, and Water—review documents, and the officials, clerks, runners, spirits who preside over the year, spirits of calamity, divine generals, shrines, altars, community temples, and all officials responsible for investigation and prosecution, together with monasteries, temples, and pagodas, are all governed by the sovereign who is to examine matters in accordance with the scriptures and preside over their administration. All are to respectfully carry out Daoist decrees.

We look up to Heaven’s compassion because the Most High—Daoism’s honorific for the supreme divinity—cherishes life. The Dao’s teachings are boundless, and its laws are established in the hidden and mysterious so that they may be followed everywhere. Thus petitions may be made for the issuance of an amnesty, granting special pardon for offenses. This is done out of pity for people’s ignorance and in recognition of their capacity for self-correction.

The matter now reported concerns the establishment of an altar for the observance of the Dao in a certain place in a certain county of Sichuan Province, Republic of China. The faithful have sincerely turned to Daoism, lighting lamps and burning incense as they pray for blessings upon the ruler and the nation, repent of their faults and welcome grace, seek peace for their region, and ask for good fortune and auspicious signs. On this day, the common people and the faithful have made their intentions known to Heaven and completed their report. After receiving this matter, this office judged that it would benefit the salvation of many and has submitted a report to the Emperor Lord and the True Lords. Yet because those attending the ritual assembly bear grave consequences for their sins and many accumulated karmic burdens, we earnestly petition for the issuance of a Purple Tenuity amnesty.

Purple Tenuity Amnesty:

Issue a decree for people born under the Metal phase, extending compassion and kindness widely among the people and removing the offenses written into their destinies. Whether in past lives or this life, all offenses committed knowingly or unknowingly in violation of filial piety, brotherly respect, loyalty, and trustworthiness, and all faults arising from deficiencies in propriety, righteousness, integrity, and a sense of shame, are to be weighed and pardoned together with sins accumulated over time through greed, anger, delusion, and attachment. Whether great or small, all faults are pardoned: falsehoods, artful speech, abusive words, sowing discord, deceiving openly or cheating in secret, taking life, and killing. If these have been entered in the registers of past assessments and now bring retribution, they are pardoned wherever this decree reaches, whether or not the evidence of guilt has been established, and regardless of the severity of any interrogation or illness suffered as a result.

One: Pardon the offenses committed in past lives and this life by all the faithful who have shown irreverence toward the gods or disobeyed the teachings of their masters and elders. These people incurred guilt through self-deception and became trapped in endless cycles of karmic retribution. Now that they have encountered this gracious decree, all such offenses are pardoned.

One: Pardon all offenses committed by the faithful in past lives and this life through disloyalty, lack of filial piety, inhumanity, and unrighteousness, as well as the faults by which they thereby angered the celestial realm.

The following is a modern plain-language interpretation of this passage from the Lingbao Wenjian scripture, organized according to the original text.

On the Sins Listed Above

Heaven’s retribution has fallen upon the offenders themselves. All sins of this kind are to be completely erased.

First Pardon

Pardon the assembled congregation—the faithful taking part in a communal ritual—for sins committed in past lives and this life, including failing to revere the Three Lights (the sun, moon, and stars) and failing to honor the Five Grains. If these sins have already been entered in the register of offenses, they would ordinarily bring down calamities of fire. Now, in obedience to the pardon, they are all forgiven.

Second Pardon

Pardon the faithful for the sin of showing no awe toward Heaven and Earth and no fear of the spirits and deities. Such sins have accumulated in the past and would ordinarily bring calamity today. All those covered by this pardon are to be forgiven.

Third Pardon

Pardon the faithful for sins such as cursing the wind and rain and defiling mountains and rivers. The spirits and sages had brought down calamities upon them, causing fiery lights and baleful portents to blaze fiercely. Now that the pardon has been issued, all are to be absolved and forgiven.

Fourth Pardon

Pardon members of the congregation for sins such as harming others while concealing their own faults, and recklessly casting curses. Their offenses have been investigated and confirmed, and the obstacles and calamities have grown ever more severe. Now, in accordance with the decree, they are to receive compassionate pardon.

Fifth Pardon

Pardon members of the congregation for sins such as throwing impure firewood into a fire and burning lamps with contaminated oil. They incurred the wrath and punishment of the Fire Spirits, bringing forth baleful flames and spreading calamity. With the pardon now proclaimed, all are to be forgiven.

Sixth Pardon

Pardon members of the congregation for sins such as blowing out lamps with an impure mouth, extinguishing flames with polluted water, and cursing when a fire would not catch. Their sins had brought them under the punishments of the underworld. Now that the pardon has arrived, they are to be released from those charges.

In Summary

The Supreme Emperor cherishes life and does not pursue past sins; the sages cherish all beings and open the way to pardon.

May all the departments under the Plague and Fire Divisions, which govern the transformation of the world, embody the compassionate vow and relinquish every desire to cause harm. Let them be like anger subsiding and authority withdrawn, quietly dispelling and containing poison.

The officials serving under the Department of Rumors are further instructed: turn back the banners and withdraw the troops. Order the soldiers under your command to destroy their camps and dismantle their fortifications. If you are preparing provisions for the journey ahead, do not remain attached to the scenery of this place. You must follow the saying: “Those who follow Heaven survive; those who oppose Heaven perish.”

All that this decree proclaims must be solemnly obeyed.

This is respectfully addressed to the honored deities of the Plague and Fire Divisions, that they may inspect and authorize release.

Issued on the following date in the current celestial era: year _, month _, day ___.

Your servant, appointed to carry out the rites and affairs of convenience under the registers of the Three Caverns of Shangqing, all the while in a state of humble ignorance,

Your servant, with utmost apprehension and awe, bows deeply, prostrates, and makes a hundred reverent bows, humbly entreating:

• The Great Emperor of the Celestial Sovereign of the South Pole
• The Great Emperor of the Prime Minister of the North Pole
• The Celestial Worthy of the Three Mysteries of Dongyuan
• The Ancestor Master, the Great True Lord Zhang ___, Assistant of the Three Heavens and Protector of the Teaching, to witness and confirm this petition

Note: This text follows the format of a sin-pardon petition or pardon decree used in Lingbao liturgy. It first lists, item by item, prohibitions the faithful may have violated—such as revering the Three Lights, honoring the Five Grains, and respecting mountains, rivers, lamps, and fires—then declares the Supreme Emperor’s pardon. Finally, it respectfully petitions the Plague and Fire Divisions to inspect and authorize release, and invokes the names of revered deities as witnesses and guarantors. The final title “all the while in a state of humble ignorance” is likely a copying error; the common form is “Your servant, [name and title].” This does not affect the general meaning.

This is a liturgical document in the form of a Fire Bell edict issued under the Golden Gate, found in the Lingbao Wenjian. Its general meaning is as follows.

Edict of the Fire Bell under the Golden Gate (Respectfully Presented)

The three solid lines of the Qian trigram establish the pole and form a round image, symbolizing Heaven. The six broken lines of the Kun trigram unfold into a square, symbolizing Earth. Blue Qi floats above, binding the sun, moon, and stars—the Three Luminaries—in the mysterious void. Red Qi moves below and corresponds to the Six Harmonies in the Hongfan. Human beings dwell between Heaven and Earth as the foremost spirits among the myriad kinds of life. Yet in the course of daily affairs, countless faults arise: some bring guilt through deliberate wrongdoing, others incur blame through error. When the mind clings stubbornly to delusion, troubles accumulate and deepen, until one can no longer escape hidden reproach or disclaim responsibility, and regret only grows. Without broad instruction and admonition, how can punishments be dispelled and calamities averted?

Now, at an altar established in [place name], [prefecture], [county], Sichuan Province, Republic of China, we submit a memorial to the Dao and make our appeal in earnest. With bright lamps and burning incense, we pray for [name and title] to serve the sovereign and the state, repent of past faults and receive grace, protect and pacify the local region, and bring blessings and good fortune to its people.

The people of the various surnames mentioned above have today offended the intent of the Primordial Creator. Having received this petition and completed the prescribed rites, our altar has heard its plea. As the matter concerns rescue and relief, we respectfully follow the liturgical rules, solemnly raise this memorial, and report it to the Upper Palace of Illumination and Understanding and the Golden Gate. May they issue the Secret Seals of Red Script from the Three Heavens of the Upper Cavern and transmit them to the Fire Court of the Southern Palace of Li, the Three Qi of Huilu, Zhurong, Danling, and the honored deity Yinghuo, Enforcer of the Law; to the officers, generals, and attendants under the Great General of the Flowing-Gold Fire Bell, Most Fierce and Most Fiery, of the Red Measure and Flaming Ruins; to the holy officials responsible for carrying out and transforming the affairs of the current year; and to all officials and clerks of the bureaus that administer the sins and blessings of humankind. Let them all be informed, and let none alter the prescribed rites.

Let them proceed at the Three Origins and Five Festival Days to examine the registers of merit and transgression, and investigate the sins and offenses—whether deliberate or mistaken—committed in past lives and this life by the faithful who now offer this petition. For all who would otherwise suffer fire calamities, regardless of the gravity of their offenses or whether they acted deliberately or in error, swiftly erase their faults and extinguish the roots of evil. Let no calamity arise to bring terror or conflagration; let them be fortunate enough to dwell in peace. May celebration extend from house to house, and may generations be blessed with grace.

Alas! The Great Dao is compassionate and broadly rescues those sunk in distress. May they forever escape wrongdoing and error, and avoid the burden of falling into the fishpond; may hidden calamities and offenses remain far away, and may they not incur the disaster of swallows nesting under the eaves. I address you, officials in charge: all are to comply and carry out this command. This edict is therefore proclaimed; let all understand it.

This is respectfully entrusted to the Fire Court’s young officers and clerks of merit to deliver to the officials and generals, transmit, and put into effect.

Notes on specialized terms in the text:

• Golden Gate: In Daoist liturgy, a formal designation symbolizing the golden gate of Heaven and the source from which edicts issue.
• Fire Bell: A system of commands and ritual bells associated with the Fire Court and the Great General of the Flowing-Gold Fire Bell.
• Qian and Kun: The Heaven and Earth trigrams of the Bagua (Eight Trigrams); here they introduce the cosmological idea of a round Heaven and square Earth.
• Three Luminaries: The sun, moon, and stars.
• Six Harmonies: A conception in the Hongfan and other classics of six harmonized directions or seasons; here it refers to Earth’s corresponding divisions.
• Zhurong and Yinghuo: Names for the fire god and the deity associated with Mars, who enforces the law.
• Three Origins and Five Festival Days: Important times in Daoist practice for examining records of merit and transgression and conducting liturgies.
• Faithful petitioner: A person who takes part in a purification ritual, makes an earnest appeal, and prays for blessings.

The blanks in “... prefecture ... county” and “for ... to serve the sovereign” are spaces in the original form left for inserting the province, prefecture, county, personal name, and title; they are not missing characters.

Date of Issuance: In the Celestial Era, the __ year, __ month, ____ day

I, a Daoist priest holding the rank of Libationer of the Three-Five Dugu Gong with scriptures and registers, entrusted with conducting the rites and knowing the procedure for submitting memorials before the Three Heavens, respectfully perform this ritual service. I, ____, bow a hundred times and submit this petition:

May the True Lords of the Celestial Pivot Envoy and Minister, the Celestial Pivot Inner Minister, the Celestial Pivot High Minister, and the Great Mystery High Minister bear witness and seal this covenant.

A Fire-Bell Pardon issued from the precincts of the Golden Palace. I humbly reflect:

Great indeed is the primal power of Qian, which teaches and unfolds purity and stillness to save people. Exalted indeed is the Supreme Emperor, whose law reveals compassion and succors the world. Alas! Those who are deluded amid the dust of countless worlds are bound by nets of folly. Clinging to arrogance, deceit, and fraud, they accumulate guilt as high as mountains. Those who came before do not awaken and turn back; those who come after still follow the same old tracks. As days and months pass, they plant the roots of transgression without realizing it. When their sins are full and their evil deeds complete, they suffer the retribution of misfortune in their own bodies. Their attachment knows no end; their sorrow is truly pitiable. Fortunately, the Great Dao is compassionate and pardons the calamities and faults of all living beings.

The matter now submitted, as stated above, has been completed. Our altar has carried out the prescribed rites and cultivation. In addition to having already submitted notices to the Three Offices and petitioned the various departments for their grace and confirmation, we must now present this matter to the precincts of the Golden Palace and respectfully request the issuance of the

Edict of the Jade Calendar, Inscribed in Vermilion Script of Miro

Correct Pronunciation of the Edict of the Jade Calendar, Inscribed in Vermilion Script of Miro

The Jade Emperor issues this command to the Fire Bell:

Let the flames withdraw their light; let sweet dew fall cool and clear. The true source of Taiyi is the essence of the Northern Emperor, its springs and waters vast as ten thousand acres. The imperial maiden leads the expedition herself; waves flow across the isles. Mountains transform into water spirits, and all the Nine Springs are opened. The Dark Emperor displays his glory; the Five Thunder Envoys overturn the turbid forces of Heaven and Earth and extinguish the calamity of fire. The star Yinghuo is extinguished wherever it is seen; auspicious signs and blessings arrive. Let all proceed in accordance with this command, conveyed by wind and fire through the relay stations.

Let this be announced to the Three Realms, the Four Offices, and the temples of the Five Sacred Peaks. Let every department responsible for examining and recording the sins and blessings of the people throughout the world obey this command and secretly investigate according to the Red Script.

The faithful patrons named herein have, through misdeeds committed knowingly or unknowingly, incurred various offenses in past lives and this life. In accordance with this pardon, let all these offenses be forgiven and removed.

First, pardon the offenses committed by the faithful patrons in past lives and this life:

(The articles continue with the offenses listed in the original text; in accordance with this edict, all are pardoned.)

Notes for readers; not part of the scripture:

• Libationer with scriptures and registers: A Daoist rank held by those who preside over purification rituals and submit memorials.
• Submitting a memorial: A ritual in which a petition is presented to the celestial court.
• Celestial Pivot: The first star of the Northern Dipper; here it refers to deities associated with the Celestial Pivot Office.
• Fire-Bell Pardon: A document pardoning sins, issued from the precincts of the Golden Palace and named for the fire bell.
• Edict of the Jade Calendar, Inscribed in Vermilion Script of Miro: The prescribed form of an edict issued by the Jade Emperor and recorded in the Jade Calendar.
• Northern Emperor / Dark Emperor: A revered deity associated with the north and the Water phase.
• Five Thunder Envoys: Subordinates in Thunder Rites who carry out commands and dispel calamities.
• Yinghuo: Mars, associated with calamities of fire; here, the star omen of fiery disaster.
• Faithful patrons: Believers who contribute to or participate in a purification ritual.

This scripture is a liturgical document used in Daoist absolution rituals, detailing the divine pardon granted to devotees for various transgressions.

The text first enumerates seven categories of sins requiring remission: First, offenses against filial piety and breaches of human relations; second, disrespect toward Heaven and Earth coupled with wastage of food; third, irreverence toward deities that invites calamities; fourth, defilement of nature through pollution of mountains and rivers; fifth, harming others for personal gain and uttering unjust curses; sixth, presenting impure offerings to the divine; seventh, defiling sacred lamps with foul language or objects and blaspheming against spirits.

The scripture emphasizes that through the Celestial Emperor's grace, all these transgressions—regardless of severity—shall be absolved. This reflects the compassion of the supreme Dao (the highest truth in Daoism) and answers the sincere supplications of the people. The boundless mercy of Heaven and the salvific grace of the Imperial Lord (Dijun) can dissolve misfortune, resolve karmic grievances, and permanently pacify disasters.

The concluding section outlines the transmission protocol for this absolution document: Messengers (Gongcao) and officer-generals from the Fire Ministry (Huofu, the divine administration governing fire in the Daoist pantheon) are tasked with its delivery and execution. The document bears the seal of the presiding Daoist ritual master (Taishang Sanwu Dugong Jijiu), who submits it to three high-ranking celestial beings: the True Lord of Celestial Pivot Envoy (Tianshu Shixiang Zhenjun), the True Lord of Celestial Mechanism Inner Minister (Tianji Neixiang Zhenjun), and the True Lord of Celestial Pivot Prime Minister (Tianshu Shangxiang Zhenjun).

The entire scripture embodies the Daoist belief in ritual repentance and divine absolution as means to resolve misfortunes, affirming that sincere remorse can secure spiritual forgiveness.

Excerpt from Lingbao Documents: A Plain-Language Interpretation

This section is titled “The True Lord, Supreme Minister of Great Mystery, Witness to the Covenant.” This is a common designation in Lingbao liturgical documents, listing a revered deity and identifying the deity’s role in overseeing a covenant. It is not a narrative passage from a scripture. It indicates which revered deity stands witness and guarantees the ritual, oath, or memorial being presented.

The True Lord, Supreme Minister of Great Mystery

The honorific can be understood in parts:

• Great Mystery (Taixuan): This often refers to the upper realms or a profound, mysterious domain. It is related to expressions such as “Supreme Mystery” and “Heaven of Great Mystery,” and indicates that the deity belongs to a high rank in the Shangqing and Lingbao traditions.
• Supreme Minister (Shangxiang): In ancient times, a minister was a senior official who assisted the ruler and administered state affairs. In divine registers, the title suggests a role assisting the honored celestial powers and overseeing mysterious decrees.
• True Lord (Zhenjun): A Daoist honorific for a deity who has attained the Dao, signifying realization of true nature and elevation to the rank of lord.

Taken together, the title refers to a high-ranking divine minister invoked in Lingbao documents. Including the title in the document indicates that the matters presented in the liturgy have an established rank and office to which they may appeal.

Witness to the Covenant

A covenant is, in its original sense, an oath or sworn agreement. In liturgical contexts, it commonly refers to vows or covenants made by Daoist priests, worshippers, or beings of the netherworld—for example, vows of repentance, rites to deliver the dead, or pledges to turn one’s heart toward goodness.

To witness the covenant means to attest to it, oversee it, and guarantee its validity. The deity does not perform the ritual on people’s behalf, but verifies that the document follows the proper form and that the oath is sincere. This gives the appeal a basis for rising to the heavens and the rites a warrant for their execution below. If the covenant is broken or the claims are false, there is nowhere to hide from the gods. In Lingbao rites, deities named as witnesses to covenants often have duties similar to those of inspectors and overseers, with an emphasis on impartial witnessing.

Role in this document, as a general convention

In compilations such as Lingbao Documents, the titles of the various heavens, True Lords, and marshals are listed first, followed by a designation such as “the True Lord so-and-so, witness to the covenant.” This means that before the formal submission of a document or dispatch of an official notice, the rite first invites the True Lord, Supreme Minister of Great Mystery, to preside over the covenant at the altar. This establishes before the gods the merits described and vows made in the document as a whole. When readers encounter the words “witness to the covenant,” they can understand that the oaths and petitions that follow are already under a revered deity’s scrutiny and cannot be dismissed as empty words or used to deceive others.