《靈寶文檢》Vol. 33

Scroll Twelve of the Lingbao Register of Texts: Lingbao Talismans of Boundless Deliverance, including the Qinghua Yuanyang Precious Talisman

(Lingbao Register of Texts, Ten Talismans for Delivering the Dead, Scroll Twelve: Lingbao Precious Talisman of Boundless Deliverance, Qinghua Yuanyang)

The Talisman Above Is Issued Below

This talisman proclaims the following to the lower realm:

We command the officials who keep the registers of sins, the underworld functionaries in charge, and the myriad spirits in the three palaces, nine courts, and 120 bureaus of the Eastern Limitless Spirit Realm—the destination of the departed in the east—to deliver the souls of the deceased ○ and others, rescuing them and freeing them from their suffering. By issuing this azure talisman, a decree of salvation associated with Qinghua and the east, we pardon their offenses committed in error. We transfer their spirits by means of white registers, the lists of those ascending to immortality, and extend our beneficence to all living beings. Even the lowliest creatures endowed with life and awareness may attain rebirth and awaken.

In all matters, let this be carried out according to the imperial proclamation and delivered below by the wind-and-fire post relay, swift as the wind and urgent as fire.

In the year Xinhai, under the Celestial Cycle, on the _ day of the _ month, this is issued below.

The official authorized to carry out the rites as appropriate (minister): receiving the proclamation, carries it out.

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, the Most High Lord Taiyi Who Rescues from Suffering: witness and confirm this covenant.

Lingbao Precious Talisman of Boundless Deliverance, Dongyang Taiguang

The Talisman Above Is Issued Below

We command the spirit officials who keep the registers of sins, the underworld functionaries in charge, and the myriad spirits in the three palaces, nine courts, and 120 bureaus of the Southern Limitless Spirit Realm to deliver the souls of the deceased ○ and others. May the grace of Heaven flow abundantly; may all suffering from burning and scorching be released; may all receive the Dharma rain and swiftly turn away from the calamity of burning anguish. May they ascend together with all beings to the shore of the Dao.

In all matters, let this be carried out according to the imperial proclamation and delivered by the wind-and-fire post relay. (The date, ritual office, and title of the master follow the same format as above.)

Lingbao Precious Talisman of Boundless Deliverance, Tongyin Jinqüe

The Talisman Above Is Issued Below

We command the spirit officials who keep the registers of sins, the underworld functionaries in charge, and the myriad spirits in the three palaces, nine courts, and 120 bureaus of the Western Limitless Spirit Realm to deliver the souls of the deceased ○ and others. May the Golden Talisman shine from afar into the hidden realm, illuminating it completely, so that the suffering of the vajra may cease forever. May all join in the journey to the tree of ascent to immortality, roam freely by riding the vast Qi, and ascend on clouds of compassion.

In all matters, let this be carried out according to the imperial proclamation and delivered by the wind-and-fire post relay.

In the year _, under the Celestial Cycle, on the _ day of the ___ month, this is issued below.

The official authorized to carry out the rites as appropriate (minister): receiving the proclamation, carries it out.

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, the Most High Lord Taiyi Who Rescues from Suffering: witness and confirm this covenant.

Lingbao Precious Talisman of Boundless Deliverance, Yinjing Guangling

The Talisman Above Is Issued Below

We command the spirit officials who keep the registers of sins, the underworld functionaries in charge, and the myriad spirits in the three palaces, nine courts, and 120 bureaus of the Northern Limitless Spirit Realm to deliver the souls of the deceased ○ and others. (This northern talisman of salvation belongs to the same group as the talismans for the other four directions above. Through the power of Yinjing and Guangling, it rescues souls from sin and raises them to deliverance.)

Background

These passages follow the format of proclamations issued with talismans in Lingbao rites for delivering the dead. Daoists use precious talismans alongside purification rituals to issue decrees to the underworlds in the four directions, requesting the pardon of sins and the deliverance of the deceased whose names are entered in place of “○.” Each direction has its own talisman name—Qinghua Yuanyang, Dongyang Taiguang, Tongyin Jinqüe, and Yinjing Guangling—while their functions are the same and their directions and titles differ. This reflects the Lingbao conception of the underworld administration as resembling the human bureaucracy, and of talismanic decrees as resembling imperial edicts.

A Plain-Language Interpretation of the Lingbao Textual Forms

May the myriad gods of Cao’s bureau rescue and deliver the departed souls of ○ and others: The canopy hangs down auspicious light with seven rays, blocking the roots of calamity in the Three Paths (hell, hungry ghosts, and animals). A mysterious proclamation flies to the Gate of Life, forever ending the cold, shadowy suffering of the underworld. Wondrous Qi gives rise to divine forms at the Gate of Death, carrying all beyond the desolate realm of utter despair.

In accordance with the above (carry this out as previously instructed)

Proclamation to be relayed by the Wind-and-Fire post stations

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

The official in charge of carrying out the rites as circumstances require (minister)　　　Receives the proclamation and carries it out

Eastern Pole Compassionate Father, Taiyi, Heavenly Worthy Who Rescues from Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　Witness and seal the covenant

Lingbao, Boundless Deliverance of Humanity: Supreme Treasure Talisman of Spiritual Efficacy

This talisman is hereby issued

To the officials in charge of the registers of sin among the Three Palaces and Nine Offices, the one hundred and twenty bureaus of the boundless divine realm in the northeast:

May the myriad gods of the underworld bureaus rescue and deliver the departed souls of ○ and others: Your deep kindness falls like rain; your benevolence pours down like a stream of stars. Dissolve and disperse the poison of cruel punishments; sprinkle the Dharma rain of coolness and purity. With a jade tally, raise the dead; make the white bones whole again.

In accordance with the above

Proclamation to be relayed by the Wind-and-Fire post stations (the date, ritual master’s title, and other details are as above)

Lingbao, Boundless Deliverance of Humanity: Supreme Treasure Talisman of the Primordial Blue Heaven

This talisman is hereby issued

To the officials in charge of the registers of sin among the Three Palaces and Nine Offices, the one hundred and twenty bureaus of the boundless divine realm in the southeast:

May the myriad gods of the underworld bureaus rescue and deliver the departed souls of ○ and others: By decree, send down an edict from the blue empyrean; open the way to the benefit of repentance and pardon, and bring all out of the realms of scorching torment. Forever leave behind the calamity of suffering; may body and appearance be made whole, and form and spirit become wondrous.

In accordance with the above

Proclamation to be relayed by the Wind-and-Fire post stations

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

The official in charge of carrying out the rites as circumstances require (minister)　　　Receives the proclamation and carries it out

Eastern Pole Compassionate Father, Taiyi, Heavenly Worthy Who Rescues from Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　Witness and seal the covenant

Lingbao, Boundless Deliverance of Humanity: Treasure Talisman of the Primordial Sovereign’s High Dawn

This talisman is hereby issued

To the officials in charge of the registers of sin among the Three Palaces and Nine Offices, the one hundred and twenty bureaus of the boundless divine realm in the southwest:

May the myriad gods of the underworld bureaus rescue and deliver the departed souls of ○ and others: Riding on jade tallies, may they be pardoned for their sins and all attain renewed life. Receiving the Golden Registers (immortal registers for the deliverance of humanity), may their souls be delivered without undergoing suffering; may they forever leave behind the realm of slaughter and return together to the realm of purity.

In accordance with the above

Proclamation to be relayed by the Wind-and-Fire post stations

Explanation: This text follows the format of an edict talisman used in Lingbao Zhaijiao (purification ritual): “relayed by the Wind-and-Fire post stations” evokes the urgent transmission of decrees. Treasure talismans are issued to the Three Palaces and Nine Offices in each direction (underworld institutions that investigate and record sins), with the Heavenly Worthy Taiyi Who Rescues from Suffering witnessing and sealing the covenant. The text petitions for the rescue and deliverance of the departed souls whose names or number are entered in place of “○,” using images such as jade tallies, Dharma rain, and edicts from the blue empyrean to express relief from suffering, renewed life, and release from pain into joy.

A Vernacular Reading of the Lingbao Documents

Issued under the Heavenly Cycle, in the year, month, and day

(Issued on a specified date according to the Heavenly Cycle.)

The official serving in ritual affairs, acting as authorized; received the decree and carried it out

(The official responsible for handling ritual matters under imperial mandate receives the decree and puts it into effect.)

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, the Celestial Worthy Taiyi Who Rescues from Suffering — witness and guarantor

(The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, the Celestial Worthy Taiyi Who Rescues from Suffering, bears witness to and guarantees this.)

Lingbao Boundless Salvation: Precious Talisman of the Nine Immortals’ Sacred Practice

This talisman is hereby issued below.

(To be delivered to those below.)

To the presiding numinous officials in the Three Palaces, Nine Offices, and One Hundred and Twenty Bureaus of the Boundless Divine Realm in the northwest, who administer the registers of sin; and to the presiding officials of the netherworld bureau

(The numinous officials in the Three Palaces, Nine Offices, and One Hundred and Twenty Bureaus of the Boundless Divine Realm in the northwest who oversee the registers of sin.)

May the myriad gods of the netherworld bureau rescue and deliver the souls of the deceased ○ and others.

The jade-toned proclamation spreads far and wide; the iron ramparts open. The towering wheel of immense fire is suddenly transformed into a realm of pure peace. The fierce, unceasing smoke in flight becomes a land of jade trees.

(The jade-toned proclamation is disseminated, and the iron city opens wide. The towering wheel of immense fire turns in an instant into a realm of pure peace; the blazing, unceasing smoke becomes a land of jade trees.)

Let everything be carried out in accordance with the decree, and transmitted by courier through wind and fire.

(Everything is to proceed as commanded and be delivered by the wind-and-fire courier service.)

Year, month, and day to be entered; the ritual master’s title is as stated above.

(Enter the full date; the ritual master’s name and title are as above.)

Lingbao Boundless Salvation: Precious Talisman of Great Luo’s Transcendent Passage

This talisman is hereby issued below.

To the presiding numinous officials and the myriad gods of the netherworld bureau in the Three Palaces, Nine Offices, and One Hundred and Twenty Bureaus of the Boundless Divine Realm above, who administer the registers of sin: may they rescue and deliver the souls of the deceased ○ and others.

(The numinous officials who oversee the registers of sin in the Three Palaces, Nine Offices, and One Hundred and Twenty Bureaus of the Boundless Divine Realm above, together with the myriad gods of the netherworld bureau, are to rescue and deliver the souls of the deceased ○ and others.)

The divine radiance breaks through the darkness of the hidden registers; the precious light shines forth. May the life-giving nectar be extended in the Hall of Blessings, freeing them from the nets of the mundane world and raising them to the realm of immortals.

(The divine light breaks through the darkness of the hidden registers, and the precious light shines forth. In the Hall of Blessings, life-giving nectar is extended; they are freed from the nets of the mundane world and ascend to the realm of immortals.)

Let everything be carried out in accordance with the decree, and transmitted by courier through wind and fire.

Issued under the Heavenly Cycle, in the year, month, and day

The official serving in ritual affairs, acting as authorized; received the decree and carried it out

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, the Celestial Worthy Taiyi Who Rescues from Suffering — witness and guarantor

Lingbao Boundless Salvation: Precious Talisman of the Ninefold Numinous True Sovereign

This talisman is hereby issued below.

To the presiding numinous officials and the myriad gods of the netherworld bureau in the Three Palaces, Nine Offices, and One Hundred and Twenty Bureaus of the Boundless Divine Realm below, who administer the registers of sin: may they rescue and deliver the souls of the deceased ○ and others.

(The numinous officials who oversee the registers of sin in the Three Palaces, Nine Offices, and One Hundred and Twenty Bureaus of the Boundless Divine Realm below, together with the myriad gods of the netherworld bureau, are to rescue and deliver the souls of the deceased ○ and others.)

May supreme De (Virtue/Power) extend compassion and let its radiant light shine everywhere. Through its power, withered bones are restored to life and transformed into human beings through immortalization; its manifest power to restore bodies and revive the dead raises their souls to the realm of the Dao.

(Supreme De extends compassion, and its blended radiance shines upon all. With its power, withered bones are restored to life and transformed into human beings through immortalization; its manifest power to restore bodies and revive the dead raises their souls to the realm of the Dao.)

Let everything be carried out in accordance with the decree, and transmitted by courier through wind and fire.

Issued under the Heavenly Cycle, in the year, month, and day

The official serving in ritual affairs, acting as authorized; received the decree and carried it out

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, the Celestial Worthy Taiyi Who Rescues from Suffering — witness and guarantor

Explanation

This text is a document—a proclamation or talismanic warrant—used in Lingbao salvation rites to deliver the souls of the dead. The symbol “○” marks the place where the deceased person’s name is to be entered. The “Three Palaces, Nine Offices, and One Hundred and Twenty Bureaus” are the offices of the Daoist underworld that administer the registers of sin. The northwest, above, and below correspond to different directions of the Boundless Divine Realm. Each has its own precious talisman, symbolizing merits of salvation such as opening the underworld with a wheel of fire, dispelling darkness with divine light, and restoring withered bones to life.

An Accessible Reading of the Lingbao Ritual Document

This section gives the format of a talismanic proclamation used in the Lingbao Rite for Delivering the Immeasurable Number of Souls. Written on a jade tablet—a symbol of a document presented to the heavens—it calls for the rescuing, transporting, aiding, and liberating of departed souls. The four forms correspond to the boundless worlds of the east, south, west, and north. The “○○○” marks are where the deceased person’s name or title is entered.

Jade Tablet for Rescuing Departed Souls in the Lingbao Rite for Delivering the Immeasurable Number

The above talismanic proclamation is issued below.

Proclaimed to the boundless world of the east: Rescue the soul of the departed ○○○, that it may leave the long night and behold the light. May the heavens praise this act, and may those who are deaf or hard of hearing regain their hearing.

In accordance with the established practice (to be carried out as before, in this manner).

By command, transmit this proclamation with the speed of wind and fire (using wind and fire as relay stations to convey it at once).

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

The ritual officer authorized to carry out the rites, ___, receives the command and puts it into effect.

Most High Lingbao Celestial Worthy of the Boundless East

Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, Taiyi Celestial Worthy Who Relieves Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　Witnesses

South: Jade Tablet for Transporting Departed Souls in the Lingbao Rite for Delivering the Immeasurable Number

The above talismanic proclamation is issued below.

Proclaimed to the boundless world of the south: Transport the soul of the departed ○○○, that it may leave the long night and behold the light. May the blind see clearly and all regain their ordinary human faculties.

In accordance with the established practice.

By command, transmit this proclamation with the speed of wind and fire.

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

The ritual officer authorized to carry out the rites, ___, receives the command and puts it into effect.

Most High Lingbao Celestial Worthy of the Boundless South

Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, Taiyi Celestial Worthy Who Relieves Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　Witnesses

Jade Tablet for Aiding Departed Souls in the Lingbao Rite for Delivering the Immeasurable Number

The above talismanic proclamation is issued below.

Proclaimed to the boundless world of the west: Aid the soul of the departed ○○○, that it may leave the long night and behold the light. May those who cannot speak find their voices, and may all receive aid and liberation.

In accordance with the established practice.

By command, transmit this proclamation with the speed of wind and fire.

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

The ritual officer authorized to carry out the rites, ___, receives the command and puts it into effect.

Most High Lingbao Celestial Worthy of the Boundless West

Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, Taiyi Celestial Worthy Who Relieves Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　Witnesses

Jade Tablet for Liberating Departed Souls in the Lingbao Rite for Delivering the Immeasurable Number

The above talismanic proclamation is issued below.

Proclaimed to the boundless world of the north: Liberate the soul of the departed ○○○, that it may leave the long night and behold the light. May those who are lame, bedridden with long illness, or afflicted by chronic disease all rise and walk.

In accordance with the established practice.

By command, transmit this proclamation with the speed of wind and fire.

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

The ritual officer authorized to carry out the rites, ___, receives the command and puts it into effect.

Most High Lingbao Celestial Worthy of the Boundless North

Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, Taiyi Celestial Worthy Who Relieves Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　Witnesses

Notes: “Rescuing,” “transporting,” “aiding,” and “liberating” are different names for delivering the dead from the underworld and raising them into the light; each is associated with one of the four directions. “Long night” commonly refers to the underworld, the realm of darkness experienced after death. “Witnesses” indicates that the Lingbao Celestial Worthy and Taiyi Celestial Worthy Who Relieves Suffering bear witness to the rite’s authenticity and efficacy. In the source text, the character “du” has the same meaning as “du,” “to see.” The southern passage’s “the blind see clearly” and the western passage’s “those who cannot speak find their voices” express the hope that departed souls with disabilities will recover through liberation.

This is a Daoist ritual document for the salvation of departed souls. The text invokes several revered Daoist deities: the Northern Limitless Supreme Numinous Treasure Celestial Worthy (the highest divinity governing the northern world) and the Eastern Limitless Compassionate Father Great Benevolent Savior from Suffering Celestial Worthy (a deity specifically dedicated to relieving suffering). These divine beings serve as witnesses (zhengmeng) to the ritual.

The document contains four salvation talismans (fujian) corresponding to the four cardinal directions of the limitless realms: northeast, southeast, southwest, and northwest. Each talisman is designed to guide departed souls (represented by ○○○ in place of specific names) from its respective direction, helping them escape darkness and return to light.

Each directional salvation has distinct characteristics: the northeast talisman heals prolonged illnesses and restores physical form; the southeast talisman transforms white hair to black and regenerates teeth; the southwest talisman rejuvenates the elderly while strengthening the young; the northwest talisman safeguards pregnant women's wombs and promotes the flourishing of birds and beasts, ensuring smooth growth for both the born and unborn.

Every talisman concludes with the phrase "to be delivered swiftly by wind-fire courier (feng huo yi chuan)"—referring to Daoism's conceptual rapid-delivery system that transmits these salvation decrees throughout all realms. The document bears the exact date and signature of the presiding Daoist priest (officiating as "Minister Authorized to Perform Expedient Rituals"), formally enacting these salvation ceremonies.

A Plain-Language Reading of Lingbao Documents

Year and month (with ritual title)　　Master’s title (same as above)

Jade Document for the Limitless Salvation of the Lingbao Tradition: Guiding the Souls of the Dead to a New Passage

The following talisman proclaims:

In the limitless world above, guide the soul of the deceased [name] onward, so that it may leave the long night and behold the light. Let the gates of the underworld open and drain away, like dew from jade.

In complete accordance

with the decree; let it be relayed by wind-and-fire courier.

In the year, month, and day ordained by Heaven, this proclamation is issued.

[Name], a minister entrusted with carrying out ritual affairs as circumstances require, receives the decree and carries it out.

The Most High Heavenly Worthy of the Lingbao Tradition in the Limitless Realm Above

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, the Great One Who Saves from Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　Witnesses and confirms

Jade Document for the Limitless Salvation of the Lingbao Tradition: Rescuing the Souls of the Dead

The following talisman proclaims:

In the limitless world below, rescue the soul of the deceased [name], so that it may leave the long night and behold the light. Let withered bones live again, and let all arise as human beings.

In complete accordance

with the decree; let it be relayed by wind-and-fire courier.

In the year, month, and day ordained by Heaven, this proclamation is issued.

[Name], a minister entrusted with carrying out ritual affairs as circumstances require, receives the decree and carries it out.

The Most High Heavenly Worthy of the Lingbao Tradition in the Limitless Realm Below

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Pole, the Great One Who Saves from Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　Witnesses and confirms

Yellow Document to the Ten Directions

Memorial from the Altar of the Supreme Primordial Origin

To: The official in charge of the Eastern Hell

Respectfully presented:

The Heavenly Worthy of Primordial Beginning preached the scriptures in accordance with the generative patterns of Heaven and Earth. The Compassionate Heavenly Worthy who Saves from Suffering rescues those in distress, manifesting in numberless forms like grains of sand. Yet only a vast vow can give voice to this purpose; therefore, the salvation of beings is limitless. We have examined the hidden meanings and subtle principles, whose efficacy is beyond thought and discussion. You are entrusted with the office of receiving and conveying instructions, and with the solemn administration of punishments. The Way of Lingbao should extend widely its care for life; the ritual regulations for purification rites open the gate to universal deliverance.

Now, in accordance with the authority of

[Name], a Daoist ritual minister serving in the rites for the salvation of the dead under the scriptures and registers of the Three Caverns of the Highest Clarity,

I respectfully submit the following:

From the place where [name] lived in the Great Han region, Sichuan Province, [name of Daoist administrative district], [name of prefecture], [name of county], using scriptures recited throughout the realm to pardon the offenses of [name’s home region], all the wandering souls in the hells of the limitless world of this region are to receive this beneficence and come to the ritual altar.

Explanatory notes on terms used in the document:

• Jade document: In Daoist ritual, a symbolic document presented to the celestial realm. Here it refers to the proclamation format for guiding or rescuing the souls of the dead.
• Proclaims: An order declared to the lower realm or to the various directions.
• Wind-and-fire courier: A phrase describing the rapid transmission of a decree, like wind and thunder or an official courier service.
• Entrusted with carrying out ritual affairs as circumstances require / receives the decree and carries it out: The Daoist ritual minister refers to himself as a “minister” and carries out the rites under the Heavenly Worthy’s decree.
• Witnesses and confirms: The Heavenly Worthies are present as witnesses and give their approval.
• Yellow document: An official document, written on yellow paper, issued to the hells or other realms.
• Ten directions: The hell realms of the various directions, including east, south, west, and north.
• Place where the deceased lived: The direction, place of residence, or native region associated with the deceased.
• Scriptures recited throughout the realm: Scriptures such as the Scripture of Salvation of Humanity, recited everywhere to pardon sins and relieve suffering.

This passage comes from the “True Talisman for Rescuing from Suffering” and the “Passage Permit for Delivering People” in Lingbao Zhaijiao documents. Its general meaning is as follows.

First part: the talisman for rescuing from suffering and the official proclamation

Illuminate your own “Void Emperor”—your inner, clear nature—and suddenly awaken in your heart to “Litu,” the Pure Land and realm of liberation. Then the body will not perish, and you may ascend to Tianmi, the celestial fields that provide sustenance in the immortal realm. If you wish to be born within a lotus in lifetime after lifetime, cultivate the Dao in every life, and encounter the Dao again and again, this is what is meant by “unlimited universal deliverance and boundless rescue.”

Now, in accordance with the talismanic command of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning, this True Talisman for Rescuing from Suffering is issued, with the following formal order:

The talisman hereby orders the lord of the hell in a certain region to permit the extraction and redemption of the departed soul, so that it may enter a Daoist palace and receive the Supreme One’s virtue of cherishing life. Let all matters comply with the laws and commands of the Mysterious Code.

Issued under official document: on a certain day of a certain month in a certain year of the Celestial Cycle. This document is submitted by a certain minister, who is empowered to carry out the appropriate rites and matters and acts in obedience to the decree.

The witnessing deities, in order, are the True Lord, Assistant Minister of the Celestial Pivot; the True Lord, Inner Minister of the Celestial Pivot; the True Lord, Upper Minister of the Celestial Pivot; the Upper Minister of Great Mystery; and the Dao Lord of the Immortal Realm of Great Clarity. They all serve as witnesses and guarantors.

Second part: the passage permit for delivering people

The Passage Permit for Delivering People, a document guiding departed souls upward and through the passes, is handled by the official in charge of permits.

Now, certain people, including the filial and faithful, on a certain day of a certain month, have established and performed a Great Lingbao Retreat for Delivering People, lasting a number of days and nights. They have carried out various meritorious deeds and prayed for grace to deliver and commend the souls of the deceased, including a certain departed person and the lonely spirits, so that through the merit of the scriptures they may be reborn in the immortal realm.

In accordance with the Mysterious Code, this office has now completed the repeated recitation of the precious scriptures. One memorial and talismanic petition have been presented at the court of the Celestial Worthy, Jade Treasure of the Eastern Heaven. A copy has been cast into the palaces of the assembled immortals and sages of the Boundless Divine Realm in a certain direction. An official document has also been sent to the lord of the hell in a certain region—for example, the Wind and Thunder Hell of the East—to request this passage. The appointed officials shall therefore transmit and carry out the order.

The permit must accompany the bearer when passing through the checkpoint.

The above is the text of the permit.

Let the Flying Heaven Envoys, the Flying Heaven Divine Beings, the Mysterious Bureau Envoys, the Merit Officers named for the relevant region, and the Merit Officers of the underworld in the Boundless World of that region carry out this order accordingly.

Note: The document follows the formal style used in Lingbao ritual services: first, a talisman and official proclamation are sent to the hell to order the release of the soul; then a passage permit conveys it to the Celestial Worthy and the immortal realm. After the filial and faithful establish the retreat and recite the scriptures, the permit sends the departed soul through the gates of hell toward the Celestial Worthy, Jade Treasure of the Eastern Heaven, and the Boundless Divine Realm. The lord of the hell and the Merit Officers release and authorize its passage in accordance with the official documents.

This is the document format of the Nine Chapters of Shengshen Slips, used in the Lingbao lineage to deliver departed souls from suffering. Its general meaning is as follows.

Celestial cycle: year　month　day　dispatch

(Fill in the year, month, and day according to the celestial calendar in use; the document is dispatched for execution.)

Guan

(A formal dispatch: the term used at the point where documents are sent to the gates of Heaven and the underworld.)

The Ancestral Master, True Lord and Great Ritual Master Who Supports the Teaching of the Three Heavens, Assists the Mystery, and Embodies the Dao　　　　　Witness and guarantor

(The ancestral master, the True Lord and Great Ritual Master who supports the teaching of the Three Heavens, assists the Mystery, and embodies the Dao, serves as witness and guarantor for the rite.)

Nine Chapters of Shengshen Slips

Upper Slip of Kaiyang: The Secret Essential Writ of the Soul Essence of Wuliang Heaven of Yudan, with Its Inner Taboo Name and Jade Pendant

The talisman above issues this command below.

To the Earth Sovereign of the Northeast, at the position of Chou and Yin in the Gen Palace, whose color is moist earth: deliver the departed soul of ○○○ from suffering; subdue demons and secure its recommendation; convey it to the Southern Palace for classification. Let the dead soul undergo refinement and become an immortal, be transformed into a living human being, and receive deliverance in its body. Let it endure through every kalpa, turn with the cycles of the kalpas, and live as long as Heaven. May it forever escape the Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Difficulties, rise beyond them, and roam freely in the realm of immortals.

Shangqing

Exactly as requested

Let the celestial edict be transmitted swiftly by wind-and-fire relay

Reported above on the year, month, and day of the Xinhai year of the celestial cycle

(I), the officiant empowered to carry out ritual affairs as appropriate, receive the edict and carry it out

The Ancestral Master, Patriarch of the Three Heavens, True Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang　　　　　Witness and guarantor

Upper Slip of Mingyang: The Secret Essential Writ of the Soul Essence of Shangshang Chanshan Wuliangshou Heaven, with Its Inner Taboo Name and Jade Pendant

The talisman above issues this command below.

To the Earth Sovereign of the East, at the Mao position in the Zhen Palace, whose color is the outline of the earth: deliver the soul of the deceased ○○○ from suffering; subdue demons and secure its recommendation; convey it to the Southern Palace for classification. Let the dead soul undergo refinement and become an immortal, be transformed into a living human being, and receive deliverance in its body. Let it endure through every kalpa, turn with the cycles of the kalpas, and live as long as Heaven. May it forever escape the Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Difficulties, rise beyond them, and roam freely in the realm of immortals.

Shangqing

Exactly as requested

Let the celestial edict be transmitted swiftly by wind-and-fire relay

Year and month　(officiant’s ritual rank)　title of the master (as above)

Upper Slip of Shiyang: The Secret Essential Writ of the Soul Essence of Fanjian Xuyan Heaven, with Its Inner Taboo Name and Jade Pendant

The talisman above issues this command below.

To the Earth Sovereign of the Southeast, at the position of Chen and Si in the Xun Palace, whose color is stone fat: deliver the departed soul of ○○○ from suffering; subdue demons and secure its recommendation; convey it to the Southern Palace for classification. Let the dead soul undergo refinement and become an immortal, be transformed into a living human being, and receive deliverance in its body. Let it endure through every kalpa, turn with the cycles of the kalpas, and live as long as Heaven. May it forever escape the Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Difficulties, rise beyond them, and roam freely in the realm of immortals.

Shangqing

Exactly as requested

Let the celestial edict be transmitted swiftly by wind-and-fire relay

Reported above on the year, month, and day of the celestial cycle

Notes for reading the original:

• Upper Slip: A document submitted to the corresponding celestial realm. Kaiyang, Mingyang, and Shiyang are names associated with the rising of Yang energy and with brightness, matched to particular directions and celestial names.
• Soul Essence’s Secret Essential Writ, Inner Taboo Name, and Jade Pendant: A secret name associated with the soul essence, often written on a slip shaped like a jade pendant. It is an inner taboo name and not for casual disclosure.
• Earth Sovereign: A deity who governs the earth in a particular direction or position. Chou and Yin in the Gen Palace (northeast), Mao in the Zhen Palace (east), and Chen and Si in the Xun Palace (southeast) pair Daoist directions with the earthly branches.
• Deliver from suffering: Rescue a departed soul from places of suffering. Subdue demons and secure its recommendation: Suppress demonic obstructions and recommend the soul for ascent. Convey it to the Southern Palace for classification: The soul receives deliverance in the Southern Palace, where it is refined and assigned a rank.
• Let the dead soul undergo refinement and become an immortal, be transformed into a living human being: Through refinement, the dead soul becomes eligible for an immortal rank and may regain human life or attain the status of an immortal. This is a standard formula in the Lingbao context of rites for refining and delivering souls.
• Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Difficulties: Names for the paths of hell, hungry ghosts, and animals, as well as various sufferings and calamities.
• Shangqing, Exactly as requested: The petition is submitted to the Shangqing realm and conforms to the petitioner’s wishes. Let the celestial edict be transmitted swiftly by wind-and-fire relay: Send the celestial edict with the speed of a wind-and-fire relay.
• Zhang in “True Lord of Zhengyi” usually refers to Zhang Daoling, founding master of the Zhengyi Mengwei tradition. He serves, together with the ancestral master mentioned above, as witness and guarantor.

The original leaves blank spaces at ○○○ for the deceased person’s name or ritual name. The text repeats the same prayer for delivering souls; the celestial name, direction, Earth Sovereign, and Yang name (Kaiyang, Mingyang, or Shiyang) change from one of the nine slips to another.

A Plain-Language Reading of the Lingbao Ritual Documents

This text is a memorial for delivering the dead, used in Lingbao ritual documents. It is a format for reporting a divine command to the celestial court. It has three sections, corresponding to the underworld regions of the south, southwest, and west. All three follow the same structure and have the following general meaning.

First Section: The South

“Acting in accordance with the ritual procedures, I, your servant, receive the command and carry it out.”

We, the officiants, act as circumstances and the ritual procedures require, and carry out the instructions after receiving the command.

“Ancestor, Lord of the Three Heavens and True Lord of Orthodox Unity, Zhang … witnesses and confirms the covenant.”

The covenant is witnessed and confirmed by the ancestor Zhang Daoling, revered by the Way of Orthodox Unity and its Covenant with Authority.

“Secret directive concerning the soul and essence of the Heaven of Silent Stillness and Doushu; the Sun-facing Upper Memorial, authenticated by the celestial secret name and jade pendant.”

This is an Upper Memorial addressed to the Heaven of Silent Stillness and Doushu, a celestial realm. It conveys a secret directive concerning the soul and essence, authenticated by an inner taboo name, a secret name used in the celestial realm, and a jade pendant. It is a Sun-facing Upper Memorial, a document presented to a celestial realm associated with the sun.

“By this talismanic command, the following is proclaimed.”

This talismanic command now declares:

“Earth Emperor Lord of the Lush and Moist Earth, who governs the southern Li Palace and the Horse position.”

The command is addressed to the Earth Emperor Lord who governs the Lush and Moist Earth in the southern Li Palace, at the Horse position.

“Deliver and rescue the soul of the deceased [name].”

Rescue and deliver the soul of the deceased [name, to be entered here].

“Subdue demons and recommend the soul, so that it may receive its rank in the Southern Palace.”

Subdue demonic obstacles and recommend the soul, so that it may be assigned a rank in the Southern Palace, where Daoist tradition holds that souls are refined and receive their standing.

“May the dead soul be refined and transformed into an immortal; may the living receive deliverance; may they endure through kalpas without end.”

May the dead soul undergo refinement and become immortal. If the person is still alive, may they too receive deliverance, and may they endure through every kalpa.

“May they turn through the kalpas and last as long as Heaven; may they forever escape the Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Hardships, and rise beyond to roam freely in the realm of immortals.”

May they pass through the kalpas and endure as long as Heaven, forever escaping the Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Hardships—the many forms of suffering in the underworld and the cycle of rebirth—and rise beyond to the realm of immortals, where they may roam freely.

“Shangqing: May all be as one.”

May the Shangqing realm, one of the Three Pure Ones’ celestial realms, bear witness. May all be as the command prescribes.

“May the command be transmitted by courier through wind and fire.”

May this command be carried and delivered by the forces of wind and fire.

“Presented to Heaven on the [year], [month], [day] of the Celestial Era.”

Presented to Heaven on the specified year, month, and day of the Celestial Era.

Second Section: The Southwest

The format is the same; the main differences are the direction and names:

• The secret directive concerning the soul and essence of the Heaven of Poluoni-mi, and the Sun-facing Upper Memorial.
• The command is addressed to the Earth Emperor Lord of the Golden Millet Marsh, who governs the southwest Kun Palace at the Goat and Monkey positions.
• The remaining instructions are the same as in the first section: deliver the soul of [name], subdue demons, have the soul receive refinement in the Southern Palace, and deliver it from the Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Hardships.

Third Section: The West

• The secret directive concerning the soul and essence of the Heaven of Dongyuan Huaying Sheng, and the Primordial-Yang Upper Memorial.
• The command is addressed to the Earth Emperor Lord of the Golden-Rigid Iron Ruler Earth, who governs the western Dui Palace at the Rooster position.
• The instructions to deliver the soul, subdue demons, refine and transform it in the Southern Palace, and raise it to the realm of immortals are the same as in the first two sections.

Reading the Three Sections as a Whole

These three sections are fill-in templates for the same kind of ritual for delivering the dead. They begin with the officiant receiving the command and True Lord Zhang witnessing the covenant. Next comes the name of the Upper Memorial for a particular heaven. Then the document proclaims, “By this talismanic command,” and addresses the Earth Emperor Lord of the relevant direction, instructing him to deliver the soul of the deceased whose name is entered, subdue demons, assign the soul a rank in the Southern Palace, refine and transform it, and free it forever from suffering.

The closing phrases—“Shangqing: May all be as one,” “transmitted by courier through wind and fire,” and “presented to Heaven on the specified date”—are standard formulas for presenting the memorial, transmitting the command, and recording the date. The space marked [name] is filled in with the deceased person’s name when the ritual is performed.

“Memorandum of the Lingbao Registers”: Imperial Command by Wind-and-Fire Relay (Modern Interpretation)

The following is a format for proclamations in Lingbao liturgy. In the form of a “wind-and-fire relay,” talismans are issued to the Earth Sovereigns in the various directions to rescue and ferry departed souls. The “○○○” marks the place where the deceased person’s name is written.

Northwest (the Xu-Hai positions of the Qian Palace)

Imperial Command by Wind-and-Fire Relay

On the day, month, and year of the Celestial Cycle, this proclamation is issued.

The official carrying out the rites as circumstances require (servant) __ receives the command and carries it out.

The patriarch, Master of the Three Heavens, Perfected Lord of Orthodox Unity, Zhang __, bears witness and confirms the covenant.

The Secret Revelation of the Essence of the Celestial Soul of the Heaven of Sacred Assistance in Spiritual Transformation; the Inner Name, Jade Pendant, and Jade Yang Upper Register.

This talismanic proclamation is hereby issued to:

The Earth Sovereign of the northwest, at the Xu-Hai positions of the Qian Palace, who governs the lands of Water, Water-Control, Marsh, and Earth: rescue and ferry the soul of the deceased ○○○; restrain demons and safeguard the soul’s advancement; guide and rank it in the Southern Palace. Cause the dead soul to undergo refinement and become an immortal, to transform into human form, and to receive deliverance in a reborn body. May it endure through every kalpa, turn with the cycles of the kalpas, live as long as Heaven, forever pass beyond the Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Hardships, and rise above to roam freely in the realm of immortals.

In accordance with the Supreme Clarity, so be it.

North (the Zi position of the Kan Palace)

Imperial Command by Wind-and-Fire Relay (the date, ritual office, master’s title, and other details are as above)

The Secret Revelation of the Essence of the Celestial Soul of the Lofty, Void, and Pure Brightness Heaven; the Inner Name, Jade Pendant, and Penetrating Yang Upper Register.

This talismanic proclamation is hereby issued to:

The Great Wind Marsh Earth Sovereign of the north, at the Zi position of the Kan Palace: rescue and ferry the soul of the deceased ○○○; restrain demons and safeguard the soul’s advancement; guide and rank it in the Southern Palace. May the dead soul undergo refinement and become an immortal, transform into human form, receive deliverance in a reborn body, endure through every kalpa, turn with the cycles of the kalpas, live as long as Heaven, forever pass beyond the Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Hardships, and rise above to roam freely in the realm of immortals.

In accordance with the Supreme Clarity, so be it.

Center (the Central Palace)

Imperial Command by Wind-and-Fire Relay

On the day, month, and year of the Celestial Cycle, this proclamation is issued.

The official carrying out the rites as circumstances require (servant) __ receives the command and carries it out.

The patriarch, Master of the Three Heavens, Perfected Lord of Orthodox Unity, Zhang __, bears witness and confirms the covenant.

The Secret Revelation of the Essence of the Celestial Soul of the Heaven Without Thought, Without Attachments, and Without Desire; the Inner Name, Jade Pendant, and Sprouting Yang Upper Register.

This talismanic proclamation is hereby issued to:

The Earth Sovereign of the Central Palace, who governs the lands of the Abyssal Deep and the Formless Net: rescue and ferry the soul of the deceased ○○○; restrain demons and safeguard the soul’s advancement; guide and rank it in the Southern Palace. May the dead soul undergo refinement and become an immortal, transform into human form, receive deliverance in a reborn body, endure through every kalpa, turn with the cycles of the kalpas, live as long as Heaven, forever pass beyond the Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Hardships, and rise above to roam freely in the realm of immortals.

In accordance with the Supreme Clarity, so be it.

Notes on Terms

“Imperial Command by Wind-and-Fire Relay” likens the proclamation to an urgent imperial dispatch, indicating that Heaven’s orders are relayed with great speed.

“Rites conducted as circumstances require” means that rites for rescuing the dead and other matters are carried out flexibly according to liturgical rules.

“Bears witness and confirms the covenant” means that the Perfected Master Zhang, patriarch of the Orthodox Unity Covenant tradition, serves as witness.

“Upper Register” refers to the name of a register or talismanic mandate transmitted to the celestial realm.

“Rescue and ferry” means to save the soul of the deceased from the underworld and places of suffering.

“Guide and rank in the Southern Palace” means to recommend the soul for ascent to the Southern Palace, a celestial realm where Daoist teaching says souls undergo refinement and are advanced in rank.

“The Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Hardships” broadly refers to the various sufferings of the underworld and the cycles of rebirth.

The three sections share the same structure; only the direction, palace position, and title of the invoked “Secret Revelation of the Essence of the Celestial Soul” differ. This allows Daoist priests to select the appropriate version according to the deceased or the direction prescribed by the rite.

The Lingbao Writings and Registers: A Plain-Language Reading

Document Format (Proclamation Issued Below / Report Submitted Above)

In the year, month, and day of the Celestial Cycle, this proclamation is issued below

(Fill in the specific year, month, and day according to the liturgy, indicating when the document is issued.)

Your servant, who carries out the ritual rites as appropriate, receives the decree and carries it out

(The officiating Daoist priest refers to himself as “your servant” and carries out this ritual in accordance with the decree.)

The Patriarch, Master of the Three Heavens, Perfected Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang [Daoling], serves as witness and guarantor

(The founding patriarch Zhang Daoling, Master of the Three Heavens and Perfected Lord of Zhengyi (Orthodox Unity), is invoked as witness and guarantor.)

The Nine-Heavens Talisman for Generating the Spirit

1. Jade Talisman of the Jade Clarity, Highest Empyrean, Hidden Origin, and Communion with Truth

This talisman is hereby proclaimed below

The talisman’s command is conveyed to the realms below.

The Emperor of Wuliang Heaven of Yudan specially sends down the Qi of Yellow Diffusion to nurture the origin of the womb-life. The two radiances unite and blend, flowing down through the ninefold hidden channels. May the souls and Qi of the deceased ○○○ and the others unite with the empty cavern, ascending and descending through the morning empyrean. May the yellow clouds of the Numinous Palace gather, opening the hidden gates of Great Being. Refine the form and nurture the substance, and send them upward to the Southern Palace.

(Wuliang Heaven of Yudan is one of the heavens in Daoist cosmology. The Qi of Yellow Diffusion and the origin of the womb-life refer to primordial Qi associated with the womb and the origin of life. The two radiances usually refer to the sun and moon, or to Yin and Yang Qi. The ninefold hidden channels are the nine layers of Qi pathways in the human body or the cosmos. The Numinous Palace and Great Being are respectively a realm for cultivating the spirit and nurturing life, and a vast gateway. Refining the form and nurturing the substance refers to reshaping body and spirit in the ritual. Sending upward to the Southern Palace means guiding the deceased’s soul to the Southern Palace for refinement and ascent to perfected status.)

Carry this out exactly as decreed, with the dispatch swift as wind and fire.

(Carry out the decree exactly as written, transmitting it with the speed of a courier borne by wind and thunder.)

(The dates, ritual offices, and master’s titles in the following talismans are the same as above and are not repeated.)

2. Precious Talisman of the Jade Clarity, Azure Spirit, Jade Radiance, Limitless, and Communion with the Mysterious

This talisman is hereby reported above

The talisman’s command is conveyed upward to the heavens.

The Emperor of the Heaven of Boundless Longevity and Supreme Contemplative Goodness specially sends down the Qi of the Purple Gate to nurture the origin of the ninefold womb. The two radiances unite and blend, flowing down through the ninefold hidden channels. May the souls of the deceased ○○○ and the others become radiant and pure as jade, their essence refined until their form is perfected. Let them strive to be nurtured in the mysterious and ascend to life above. Let them be arrayed in full splendor in the Hall of Illumination. May the Infant and the Officer Elder strike down the roots of Huazhan and sever the gate of death. Refine the form and nurture the substance, and send them upward to the Southern Palace.

(The Heaven of Boundless Longevity and Supreme Contemplative Goodness is the name of a heaven. The Purple Gate and the origin of the ninefold womb refer to life-origin Qi associated with the womb and the nine palaces. Radiant and pure as jade, and essence refined, describe the soul and spirit as clear and luminous. Nurturing in the mysterious and the Hall of Illumination refer to cultivation and the chamber of the spirit. The Infant and the Officer Elder are ritual officials who protect and refine the infant soul. The gate of death symbolizes the entrance to death, which must be severed.)

Carry this out exactly as decreed, with the dispatch swift as wind and fire.

In the year, month, and day of the Celestial Cycle, this report is submitted above

(Fill in the year, month, and day when the document is sent upward.)

Your servant, who carries out the ritual rites as appropriate, receives the decree and carries it out

The Patriarch, Master of the Three Heavens, Perfected Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang [Daoling], serves as witness and guarantor

3. Precious Talisman of the Jade Clarity, Azure Empyrean, Great Void, True Ultimate, and Communion with Yang

This talisman is hereby reported above

The Emperor of the Heaven of Brahma’s Inspection and Prolonged Duration specially sends down the Qi of Luminous Immortality to nurture the origin of the soul-life. The two radiances unite and blend into the primordial unity, flowing down through the ninefold hidden channels. May the souls of the deceased ○○○ and the others take their proper places through three pervading stages, and through nine transformations become immortals of their own accord. May they hear the clear, resonant music of heaven and return to the Qi of their original root. Refine the form and nurture the substance, and send them upward to the Southern Palace.

(The Heaven of Brahma’s Inspection and Prolonged Duration is one of the heavens. The Qi of Luminous Immortality is pure, clear Qi associated with attaining immortality. Taking their proper places through three pervading stages and undergoing nine transformations describe the soul and spirit assuming their ritual positions and being refined through nine transformations into immortals. The Qi of the original root is the Qi that returns to the primordial source.)

Carry this out exactly as decreed, with the dispatch swift as wind and fire.

In the year, month, and day of the Celestial Cycle, this proclamation is issued below

Your servant, who carries out the ritual rites as appropriate, receives the decree and carries it out

The Patriarch, Master of the Three Heavens, Perfected Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang [Daoling], serves as witness and guarantor

Explanation

The text belongs to the proclamation-talismans used in Lingbao rites for delivering the dead. Daoist priests send talismanic commands up to the heavens and down to the underworld, asking the heavenly emperors to send down Qi, unite the two Yin-Yang radiances, and connect the ninefold Qi channels in the human body. This enables the deceased to refine the form and nurture the substance, ultimately being sent upward to the Southern Palace. The placeholder ○○○ marks where the deceased’s name is written. Swift as wind and fire evokes the rapid transmission of decrees, combining the imagery of Daoist Fulu (talismans and registers) with that of courier relays.

This text comes from Daoist Lingbao ritual documents used in Zhaijiao (purification rites) and Jiao (offerings). It gives the format for talismans intended to deliver the souls of the dead and help them ascend to immortality. Each precious talisman must “report upward” to the deities of Heaven, relying on the Qi they send down to refine the body and nurture its substance, so the deceased may be delivered to the Southern Palace—one of the destinations Daoism assigns to souls after their deliverance.

The Patriarch, Master of the Three Heavens, Perfected Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang, witnesses and confirms

Precious Talisman of Jade Clarity, Cinnabar Spirit, Southern Pole, Jade Script, and Life-Passage

This talisman reports upward:

The Heavenly Emperor of Silent Stillness, Tusita Heaven, specially sends down the “Qi that reveals the cause,” to nourish the Po—the yin-spirit substance set against the Hun—and the source of life. It unites and blends the Qi of the two luminaries, Sun and Moon, and carries it through the ninefold channels of the lower realm. May the souls of the deceased, [names], flourish in spirit and grow in excellence, their destinies unfolding in accord with the celestial charts. Amid the rosy radiance of the Nine Heavens, may they hear the jade tones as the myriad perfected beings sing together. May their forms be refined and their substance nurtured, and may they be delivered upward to the Southern Palace.

As in the preceding proclamation, let it be transmitted by the wind-and-fire relay. (The date, ritual office, master’s title, and other details below are the same as above.)

Precious Talisman of Jade Clarity, Radiant Empyrean, Wondrous Spirit, Jade Blossom, and Spirit-Passage

This talisman reports upward:

The Heavenly Emperor of Paraniṃmitavaśavartin Heaven, free from pride and delight, specially sends down the Qi of the central spirit, to nourish the zang-fu organs and the source of life. It unites and blends the two luminaries, then carries their power down through the ninefold channels. May the souls of the deceased, [names], return in spirit to the Heaven of Delight and Pride, with form and spirit entered in the registers. May they assist the Young Lord in Yellow Tranquility—the Yellow Court, or the realm within the womb—and be born of themselves from the Purple Portal, the Purple Abode where the deities within the body dwell. May their forms be refined and their substance nurtured, and may they be delivered upward to the Southern Palace.

As in the proclamation, let it be transmitted by the wind-and-fire relay.

In the year, month, and day of the Heavenly Cycle, this is proclaimed.

I, [name], ritual official empowered to act as circumstances require, receive the proclamation and carry it out.

The Patriarch, Master of the Three Heavens, Perfected Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang, witnesses and confirms

Precious Talisman of Jade Clarity, Jade Empyrean, Jade Spirit, Plain Blossom, and Yin-Passage

This talisman reports upward:

The Heavenly Emperor of Dongyuan, Transformation, and Responsive Sound specially sends down the Qi of thorough blending, to nourish the numinous palace and the source of life. It unites and blends the two luminaries, then carries their power down through the ninefold channels. May the souls of the deceased, [names], cut away the stagnant impurities of the womb, refine the embryo and return to the beginning. Through forgetting all distinctions, may they awaken to the principle of the self; in the formless, may they transform in response to sound. May their forms be refined and their substance nurtured, and may they be delivered upward to the Southern Palace.

As in the proclamation, let it be transmitted by the wind-and-fire relay.

In the year, month, and day of the Heavenly Cycle, this is proclaimed.

I, [name], ritual official empowered to act as circumstances require, receive the proclamation and carry it out.

The Patriarch, Master of the Three Heavens, Perfected Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang, witnesses and confirms

Precious Talisman of Jade Clarity, Lang Empyrean, Plain Spirit, Bright Origin, and Passage to the Real

(The original gives only the title and witness formula for this section; the proclamation itself does not continue. Its format would follow the preceding talismans: a Heavenly Emperor sends down a particular Qi to nourish the source of life; the two luminaries unite and blend, their power reaching through the ninefold channels; the deceased refine their forms and nurture their substance, then ascend to the Southern Palace. It ends with “As in the proclamation, let it be transmitted by the wind-and-fire relay,” followed by the date of proclamation and the formula stating that the ritual official receives and carries out the proclamation.)

Brief explanations of terms for reading the text:

• Perfected Lord of Zhengyi, Zhang usually refers to the line of the Celestial Masters; the patriarch’s signature appears in Zhaijiao documents.
• Precious talisman / “the talisman reports upward” refers to a Fulu (talisman) used in Lingbao rites. The document gives the talisman’s name and the words of its appeal to Heaven.
• The two luminaries usually means the Sun and Moon, or their radiance, united and refined together.
• Ninefold refers to the levels of the lower realm, the body, or the underworld. The talisman’s Qi must pass through them to deliver the soul.
• Wind-and-fire relay is a metaphor for the swift transmission of a heavenly proclamation; in ritual use, it indicates that the talisman’s command has been issued.
• Ritual official empowered to act as circumstances require; receives the proclamation and carries it out are Daoist clerical titles and formulas indicating that the priest has received the command and will perform the rite according to its prescribed method.
• [Name] marks the place where the deceased person’s name is entered.

This scripture is a Lingbao ritual document used in Daoist salvation rites for deceased souls, detailing how three Celestial Emperors descend different types of numinous Qi (spiritual energy) to assist in the deliverance process.

The Celestial Emperor of Numinous Transformation and Brahma's Assistance specially descends Dongji Qi (cavern-record energy) to nourish the Shenfu (spiritual origin) of the deceased souls, enabling the fusion of Yin-Yang energies (solar and lunar essences). This sacred Qi traverses the nine celestial realms, allowing the souls of the deceased (named ○○○) to ride upon authentic Qi and ascend like feathers lifted by a gentle breeze. Through the ritual of Seven Recitations at Heavy Passes (repeated scripture chanting), the souls joyfully wander accompanied by the Five Shen (organ spirits), ultimately refining their forms and cultivating their essence to be delivered to the Southern Palace (celestial abode).

The Celestial Emperor of Lofty Emptiness and Pure Brightness descends Hua Ning Qi (transforming congealing energy) to nourish the Huafu (essence-origin), enabling souls to produce wondrous sounds in the void and ascend along the Jade Pathway (immortal's route). The souls thus gracefully participate in mysterious transformations, released from worldly attachments that kept them earthbound, finally refining form and nurturing substance for Southern Palace deliverance.

The Celestial Emperor of No-Thought, Non-Polarity and Non-Attachment descends Xuan Zhao Qi (mysterious illuminating energy) to nourish the Yuanfu (life-origin), delivering not only specific souls but also benefiting ancestral kin trapped in the underworld across generations. These souls follow karmic connections to return to their original truth, awakening to their perfectly radiant nature and receiving spiritual inspiration within the Great Void (cosmic origin), ultimately achieving form-refinement and essence-cultivation for Southern Palace salvation.

Each section concludes noting that these salvation decrees are swiftly transmitted via the Wind-Fire Courier System (celestial express service), implemented by the ritual master (referring to himself as "your subject"), and witnessed by Patriarch Zhang Daoling (Zhengyi True Lord, founder of the Celestial Master tradition). Attached is an official document (yellow register) addressed to the rulers of hell, referencing hell's establishment during the primordial division of heaven and earth.

Plain-Language Interpretation

The Three Treasures (the Dao, the scriptures, and the masters) are revered by Heaven and Earth. They breathe in and out with Yin and Yang. The Nine Qi—nine kinds of primordial vital energy—are the forebears of primordial Yang and bring forth all things. No wondrous method surpasses this for rescuing ghosts and bringing the perfected immortals to fulfillment. Now, to deliver the souls of the Shuangling from the gates of the underworld, we first open the brocade bag of clouds—the scripture chest.

I respectfully observe what the scripture says: in the offices of the Ninefold Abyss, the edict bearing the Nine Dragon Talisman of the Eastern Florescent Green Palace rescues the male and female souls of the dead from the jade treasury of the Ninefold Abyss. Those whose names were recorded in former lives, whose good deeds are complete, and who are due to receive deliverance are selected: three hundred and twenty thousand people are enlisted for the Jia-Shen rite of driving away evil and purifying defilement, after which the people of Great Being are brought forth. Surely, even the offices of the Long Night—the netherworld—must contain those who have performed good deeds. Now, in accordance with the proper offices, this document is prepared.

I, the Minor Novice ○○○, bow my head in fear and reverence. I, your servant, respectfully receive and submit this petition:

In the territory of ○○, a prefecture or county of ○ Province, Sichuan Province, Han Empire, residing in the district of ○○ Jia ○○○, I have embraced the Dao and pledged my sincerity. I humbly beg for grace to perform refining and deliverance for ○, and to offer posthumous rites (the filial and faithful disciple of the Dao, ○○○).

The above named, together with the members of the family and filial kin, submit this petition. We have chosen ○ day of ○ month as an auspicious date and specially established the Lingbao Dongxuan Nine Heavens Spirit-Birth Purification Retreat ○, for ○ day-and-night cycles. It will conclude on ○ day. Among those to be recommended are ○ and the souls of relatives and close friends, so that together they may attain rebirth in a blessed realm. I, your servant, therefore invite and welcome the Imperial Perfected Ones, praying for the arrival of a gracious decree, for the universal deliverance of wandering spirits, and for all to share in its benefits. May the departed soul of ○○○ be delivered and ascend to a blessed realm. Having received this petition, we have already announced our covenant to the Three Realms and, in accordance with the rites, proclaimed its intent. Now that the recitation of the precious scriptures has been completed for ○ volumes, we propose, in accordance with the law, to draw out and deliver all souls in ○ direction who have performed good deeds, and to pray that they share in these benefits and that the souls of the deceased ○○○ and others for whom this retreat is being held may receive recommendation and deliverance. Through these good deeds, may they attain the true Dao. Now, in accordance with the edict bearing the Nine Dragon Talisman of the Eastern Florescent Green Palace, this proclamation must be issued.

(The following two talismans are written in vermilion ink as needed, one copy for each arrival.)

Edict bearing the Nine Dragon Talisman of the Eastern Green Palace: this proclamation must be issued.

This talisman is hereby proclaimed to the officials and presiding authorities of the underworld in ○ direction: grant permission to draw out and deliver the souls who have performed good deeds, together with the souls of the deceased ○○○ and others. Let them leave the shadowed realm directly and be forever freed from the netherworld and its hells. May their suffering be dispelled and peace opened to them; may the flames and fiery shadows at the gates of the underworld be extinguished; may the blade mountain collapse. Let brightness descend into the darkness below, and let them ascend to Zhuling, the immortal realm of the Fire Court. May they pass beyond the Three Paths, and may the wheel of past enmities come to rest.

Note: The circles ○ mark blank spaces in the ritual document for names, places, dates, and other details. “Your servant” and “Minor Novice” are forms of self-reference used by Daoist priests. “Bow my head” refers to a formal bow of reverence. The whole text follows the formal document format used in Lingbao purification rituals to “draw out and deliver souls who have performed good deeds” and to “issue proclamations to the underworld officials.”

Plain-language commentary on the Lingbao Document Forms

One as Usual

(Written according to the ritual format, as below.)

Edict for Urgent Relay by Wind and Fire

Under the Heavenly Cycle, in the year _, month _, day ___, this is proclaimed.

The Daoist officiant serving in the capacity authorized by the ritual regulations (your subject) ___ receives the edict and carries it out.

The founding patriarch, the Three Heavens’ Teaching Lord, the Orthodox Unity True Lord, Zhang ___, serves as witness and guarantor.

Pass and Dispatch Writ for the Birth of Spirits

The Office of Authorized Ritual Matters of the Supreme Ultimate now performs this rite for the family of (filial devotee) ___ and others, who are building a ritual altar at home.

For the Lingbao, Dongxuan, Nine Heavens’ Wondrous Fast for the Birth of Spirits, held for _ days and _ nights, they pray for grace and the salvation of the deceased _ and others, so that all may benefit the departed souls and attain together the realm of rebirth. Now that the recitation of the precious scripture has been completed _ times, they have offered ___ document and a set of talismanic edicts, and

submitted a memorial to the Heavenly Emperor of _ Heaven, in the Palace of _, and presented a case of talisman slips for delivery to the office of _ Palace, _ position;

they have also presented one talismanic dispatch to the Earth Emperor Lord of the _ level, _, and proclaimed it to the presiding underworld officials of the hells in the direction of ___. For this purpose, the dispatch is entrusted to the messenger official, who shall promptly convey it and carry out the instructions. This pass is issued accordingly.

To the right: this pass

To the talisman messenger _ and the Earthly Way Merit Officer _:

Proceed accordingly.

Under the Heavenly Cycle, in the xinhai year, on the _ day of the _ month, this pass is issued.

Pass

The founding patriarch, the Three Heavens’ Supporter of the Teaching, Assistant of the Profound, Embodiment of the Dao, Great Master and True Lord Zhang ___, serves as witness and guarantor.

Directional Hells and Pass Deities Listed in the Dispatch

Notes to help explain the ritual:

• Edict for Urgent Relay by Wind and Fire: Modeled on urgent court dispatches, this indicates that talismanic edicts and pass documents are to be relayed swiftly to the underworld.
• Authorized Ritual Matters: A Daoist clerical title indicating that the officiant handles matters as permitted under the ritual regulations. Receives the edict and carries it out means that the officiant accepts the order and performs the rite.
• Pass and Dispatch Writ for the Birth of Spirits: A document used for passage through the various checkpoints when the deceased leave the underworld, ascend, or are reborn. It requires memorializing the celestial realm, delivering talismans to the various palaces, and notifying the underworld officials to grant passage.
• Lingbao, Dongxuan, Nine Heavens’ Wondrous Fast for the Birth of Spirits: A fast ritual of the Lingbao school’s Dongxuan tradition, performed so that the deceased may attain the birth of spirits—that is, be reborn, undergo transformation, or ascend to realization.
• So that all may benefit the departed souls and attain together the realm of rebirth: A prayer to aid all departed souls, bring them peace, and enable them to enter together the path of rebirth or ascent to immortality.
• Earth Emperor Lord of the ___ level: Refers to the layered regions of the underworld and the Earth Emperor system. Talisman messenger and Earthly Way Merit Officer are spirit officials who transmit talismans and manage underworld documents.
• The entries from northeast through northwest are common combinations in Lingbao ritual practice of directional hell names and pass deity titles. The names in parentheses are generally abbreviated divine names or functional titles. When completing the form, these are entered alongside the names, dates, and palace names marked by blanks in the main text.

The material above explains the document format, the purpose of the fast ritual, and the names used in the pass dispatch in modern language, while retaining and briefly explaining specialized terms.

A Plain Language Interpretation of the Lingbao Writings and Registers

North (the frigid underworld of the northern abyss, a prison of yin cold): the Great Wind Marsh.

Universal Deliverance through Thoughtless Sprouting Yang (using thoughtless awareness to stir Yang energy and extend salvation widely): Numinous Aid and Deliverance (the Lingbao method of aiding and delivering souls).

Central Universal Plundering Hell (the Central Universal Plundering Hell): the cavernous abyss is without color, and its framework upholds the land.

Below: Wen Tongzheng

Above: Shu Qichang

Northwest: Yang Fuqi

Southwest: Deng Henglin

Southeast: Dou Wenguang

Northeast: Lu Jiquan

North: Jiao Shuxian

West: Zhang Yuanbi

South: Jiao Gongquan

East: Zheng Yuanxi

(The names above belong to deities who govern the various regions of the underworld and guide departed souls.)

The Precious Register for Generating Spirits at the Jade Yang Palace of the Great Numinous Fire Capital

We respectfully uphold the Talismanic Mandate of Primordial Beginning (the talismanic mandate issued by the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning) and look up to the awe-inspiring radiance of the Three Treasures (the Dao, the scriptures, and the masters). We gather the spirits of the netherworld, refine their forms in the radiance of Li Fire, and cleanse their substance with surging Kan Water. Their souls and spirits become clear and upright; the ten thousand Qi endure forever (all vital energies are preserved for a long time). They undergo no suffering or distress, and their bodies shine with light.

The Five Emperors of the Three Realms proclaim their joint declaration.

The Jade Chapter of the Shangqing Numinous Writings for Opening the Way and Deliverance recommends and raises up the souls of the deceased ○○○, who are to be delivered through this rite, along with three generations of ancestors and relatives, men and women of every social rank, and all solitary, orphaned souls.

Notice Accompanying the Register

Proclaimed throughout the ten directions in the Heaven of Vermilion Fire and Red Mound (the celestial realm of red fire and the Red Mound), to deliver spirits and souls and raise them to the immortal realm, in accordance with the edict, transmitted as swiftly as wind and fire.

This register is hereby issued to the deceased ○○○ to wear, receive, and keep; it is to be used in the realm of rebirth.

In the year, month, and day of the Heavenly Cycle, this notice is issued.

The ritual official ○○○, empowered to carry out the rites as appropriate, receives the edict and proclaims it.

Zhang, the Ancestral Founder, Celestial Master, Lord of the Three Heavens, True Sovereign of Zhengyi (Celestial Master Zhang Daoling) — witness and guarantor.

The Five Sprout Talisman

True Talisman of the Eastern Green Sprout

The talisman above petitions:

Eastern Green Sprout, purple clouds and flowing rosy mists. Take in the Green Sprout and drink the morning radiance, in accordance with the edict, transmitted as swiftly as wind and fire.

In the year, month, and day of the Heavenly Cycle, this notice is issued.

The ritual official ○○○, empowered to carry out the rites as appropriate, receives the edict and puts it into effect.

Zhang, the Ancestral Founder, Celestial Master, Lord of the Three Heavens, True Sovereign of Zhengyi — witness and guarantor.

The Celestial Lord of the Nine Qi, the Eastern Azure Numinous Primordial Elder.

A Plain-Language Interpretation of the Lingbao Wenjian

Southern Cinnabar-Heaven Talisman

Southern Cinnabar Heaven shines with radiant light, moving to and fro. Partake of the vermilion mound (nourishing yourself with the red Qi of the south), and drink from the Cinnabar Pool (quenching your thirst with its water).

As before (proceed according to the established precedent).

By decree, dispatch by wind-and-fire relay (the decree of Heaven is conveyed in all directions with the speed of wind and fire).

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

The official in charge of the ritual, acting as circumstances require: ___

Receives the decree and carries it out.

The founding patriarch, teacher of the Three Heavens, True Lord of Orthodox Unity, Tranquil Response: Zhang ___

Witness and guarantor.

Celestial Lord of the Three Qi of the Southern Cinnabar numinous True Elder.

Western White-Sprout True Talisman

This talisman is presented above in invocation (use it to submit a petition to the powers above):

Western white stone, the bright numinous essence of Metal (the finest essence of the western Metal Qi). Partake of white stone, and drink jade nectar (taking jade nectar as your drink).

As before.

By decree, dispatch by wind-and-fire relay.

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

The official in charge of the ritual, acting as circumstances require: ___

Receives the decree and carries it out.

The founding patriarch, teacher of the Three Heavens, True Lord of Orthodox Unity, Tranquil Response: Zhang ___

Witness and guarantor.

Celestial Lord of the Seven Qi of the Western Bright Numinous August Elder.

Northern Black-Sprout True Talisman

This talisman is presented above in invocation:

Northern dark nourishment, the moistening essence of a luminous pearl (the northern Water Qi, moist and lustrous like a pearl). Partake of dark nourishment, and drink jade malt syrup (taking jade malt syrup as your drink).

As before.

By decree, dispatch by wind-and-fire relay.

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

The official in charge of the ritual, acting as circumstances require: ___

Receives the decree and carries it out.

The founding patriarch, teacher of the Three Heavens, True Lord of Orthodox Unity, Tranquil Response: Zhang ___

Witness and guarantor.

Celestial Lord of the Five Qi of the Northern Mysterious Numinous Elder.

Central Yellow-Sprout True Talisman

This talisman is presented above in invocation:

Central yellow Qi (the Qi of the central Earth virtue), the high immortals of the Yellow Court (the perfected beings in the Yellow Court of the central palace). Partake of yellow sprouts, and drink sweet spring water (taking sweet spring water as your drink).

As before.

By decree, dispatch by wind-and-fire relay.

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

The official in charge of the ritual, acting as circumstances require: ___

Receives the decree and carries it out.

The founding patriarch, protector of the teachings of the Three Heavens, True Lord of Orthodox Unity, Tranquil Response: Zhang ___

Witness and guarantor.

Celestial Lord of the One Qi of the Central Mysterious Numinous Primordial Elder.

Talisman for Breaking Open the Underworld Prisons

True Talisman of Jade Clarity’s Wise Light, Breaking Darkness and Delivering the Departed

This talisman is proclaimed below (use it to issue a proclamation to the powers below):

The Northern Yin realm of Fengdu, its inner and outer palaces and grottoes, and its thirty-six prisons (the thirty-six prisons located in the inner and outer caverns under the rule of Northern Yin in Fengdu).

Note: This text is a liturgical model for the Five Directions’ True Talismans and the breaking open of prisons to deliver the dead in Lingbao purification rituals. The east, south, west, north, and center are each assigned a talisman and a visualization passage about “partaking” and “drinking,” as well as a Celestial Lord of Qi—for example, the Celestial Lord of the Three Qi of the Southern Cinnabar numinous True Elder and the Celestial Lord of the Seven Qi of the Western Bright Numinous August Elder. A talisman for breaking open the underworld prisons is appended at the end. It is addressed specifically to the prisons of Fengdu, so that the souls of the dead may be summoned and released from darkness. The phrases “by decree, dispatch by wind-and-fire relay,” “the official in charge of the ritual, acting as circumstances require,” and “receives the decree and carries it out,” together with Celestial Master Zhang’s role as witness and guarantor, are standard attestation formulas used at Lingbao ritual altars. They indicate that the talismans and liturgy are carried out under the date set by the Heavenly Cycle.

A Plain-Language Reading of the Lingbao Wénjiǎn

The sources of the twelve rivers, the waters of Quanqu, and the great and small Iron Encircling Mountains

(These refer to water sources throughout the underworld and to other netherworld realms, such as the Iron Encircling Mountains.)

The Nine Dark Realms of the ten directions, the heavenly prisons and earthly hells, and the adjudication of good and evil

In the Nine Dark Realms of the ten directions, in the heavenly prisons and earthly hells, good and evil are brought face to face and judged according to the law.

Underworld officials of the Long Night, all spirits listening, and the authentic talismanic text of the command

The officials who govern the underworld of the Long Night and all the spirits must obey; the talismanic command and authentic text serve as authority.

In the waters of the great sea, deliver souls universally

Within the underworld symbolized by the waters of the great sea, deliver the souls of the dead.

Just so

(Carry this out as stated above.)

A command to be relayed by wind-and-fire courier

(The command is issued by means of a wind-and-fire courier relay.)

Issued under the Celestial Order, in the year _, month _, day ___

The official in charge of the appropriate liturgical affairs: ___, receives the command and carries it out.

The ancestral master, True Lord Zhang, who supports the teachings of the Three Heavens and is Correct Unity’s Quiet Response: ___, witnesses and confirms the rite.

True Talisman of the Jade Clarity for Breaking the Wind-and-Thunder Hell of the East

This talisman is issued under the authority of the Venerable Celestial Worthy of Jade Treasure of the Eastern Heaven, who conveys the command to:

Qin Guang, King of the First Court of the Nether Capital, True Lord of Great Purity and Wondrous Vastness—release those sunk in the darkness of the deep springs, and proclaim throughout the Wind-and-Thunder Hell to the underworld officials in charge: bring an end to the torments of dismemberment and dissection, cold and heat, and freezing ice; release those who have suffered them for ages.

For the deceased ___, who is to be offered and recommended in this purification rite, and for all others sunk in the depths, let them leave the hells, sorrowfully seek repentance, ascend to Heaven, escape their bitter suffering, rise beyond to the Southern Palace, and be reborn in transformed form.

Just so

Command

Issued under the Celestial Order, in the year _, month _, day ___

The official in charge of the appropriate liturgical affairs: ___, receives the command and carries it out.

The ancestral master, True Lord Zhang, teacher of the Three Heavens and Correct Unity’s Quiet Response: ___, witnesses and confirms the rite.

True Talisman of the Jade Clarity for Breaking the Fire Veil Hell of the South

This talisman is issued under the authority of the Venerable Celestial Worthy of Mystery and Truth, who brings myriad blessings from the Southern Heaven, and conveys the command to:

Chu Jiang, King of the Second Court of the Nether Capital, True Lord of Hidden Virtue and Settled Rest—release those sunk in the darkness of the deep springs, and proclaim throughout the Fire Veil Hell to the underworld officials in charge: bring an end to the torments of dismemberment and dissection; transform the scene with cool, refreshing power, and take sole charge of the authority over raging flames. The netherworld path stretches into darkness, with no lamp to illuminate the hidden depths; the sea of suffering is boundless, so rescue the souls of the dead who remain sunk in its depths.

Now let the deceased ___, who is to be offered and recommended in this purification rite, and all others sunk in the depths, be spared the burning and imprisonment. Let their sins be extinguished and blessings arise; let them escape the sea of suffering and be delivered to Heaven above.

Just so

Command

Year and month _; ritual office _; master’s title ___ (as above)

True Talisman of the Jade Clarity for Breaking the Vajra Hell of the West

This talisman is issued under the authority of—

(The text that follows follows the same structure as the Eastern and Southern talismans. A revered deity of the West conveys the command to the corresponding King of a Court in the Nether Capital, to break the Vajra Hell and deliver the deceased and all others sunk in the depths. The original text does not continue here.)

Note to help make the whole text easier to follow:

This text belongs to the Lingbao Zhaijiao (purification ritual) liturgy of announcing commands to the underworld, breaking open the hells, and recommending souls for deliverance. Through authentic talismans of the Jade Clarity tradition, it issues commands to the hells of the East, South, West, and other directions, asking the Ten Kings of Hell and other underworld officials to halt punishments and open the hells. This enables the deceased who are to be recommended, along with other souls sunk in the depths, to repent, escape suffering, and ascend to Heaven or be reborn in the Southern Palace. “___” marks the place where the deceased person’s name is to be entered. “Witnesses and confirms the rite” means that the great perfected ancestral master of Zhengyi (Orthodox Unity), named Zhang in the text, bears witness to the liturgy. “Wind-and-fire courier” and “command” imitate the language of official court documents, indicating that the talismanic order is issued swiftly and with authority.

Commentary on the Lingbao Document Forms

The Celestial Worthy of Supreme Wonder and Utmost Perfection of the West conveys this decree:

Let the Great King Song of the Third Hall of the Nether Capital and the Perfected Lord of Luminous Insight and Universal Stillness, who governs the Netherworld’s Third Hall, open the darkness of the deep springs and issue notice throughout the offices of the underworld in the Diamond Hell, a prison realm named for the diamond. Let them cease dismembering and interrogating, threatening and torturing, and show not the slightest favoritism.

For the wrongs and retribution of the departed, let the underworld officials, whose duty is to govern the hidden prisons, release and deliver them. Let ○○○ and all the souls sunk in the netherworld be spared suffering and distress. Forgive and resolve their grievances and offenses; let them swiftly leave the Diamond prison and ascend together to the Pure Realm, where they will be transformed and reborn in the Southern Palace, the place where Daoism holds that the souls of the dead are refined and reborn.

All shall be carried out in accordance with this celestial decree.

Issued under the Heavenly Cycle, in the year, month, and day: __

The (minister) in charge of carrying out the appropriate ritual duties receives the decree and carries it out.

The Patriarch, Perfected Lord Zhang of the Three Heavens, who Upholds the Teachings and Is Truly Responsive in Orthodox Unity—referring to Celestial Master Zhang Daoling, revered by the Zhengyi tradition—stands witness and affirms.

True Talisman of the Jade Clarity Realm, Northern Direction, for Breaking the Dark, Cold Hell

This talisman is hereby issued.

The Celestial Worthy of Mysterious Supremacy and Jade Perfection of the North conveys this decree:

Let the Great King of the Five Offices of the Nether Capital’s Fourth Hall and the Perfected Lord of Mysterious Virtue and the Five Spirits open the darkness of the deep springs and issue notice throughout the offices of the underworld in the Dark, Cold Hell, the prison of icy waters. Let them relinquish their authority to dismember and judge, and restrain the power of ice and snow. Though the iron walls surround the prison on every side, let the condemned, sunk in the sea of suffering—the realm of painful transmigration—be allowed to leave.

Release and deliver the departed ○○○ and all the other souls in the netherworld. Spare them the suffering of torrents; break open the Dark, Cold Hell. Let them reach the farther shore soon, ascend beyond the mortal realm, and be transformed and reborn.

All shall be carried out in accordance with this celestial decree.

Year and month: __

Ritual title and master’s name (as above): __

True Talisman of the Jade Clarity Realm, Northeast Direction, for Breaking the Cauldron of Boiling Water Hell

This talisman is hereby issued.

The Celestial Worthy, Holy One Who Guides Souls to Immortality of the Northeast, conveys this decree:

Let the Son of Fengluo, the celestial ruler of the Nether Capital’s Fifth Hall, who governs that hall, and the Perfected Lord of Supreme Radiance open the darkness of the deep springs and issue notice throughout the offices of the underworld in the Cauldron of Boiling Water Hell, where souls are boiled and refined. Let them cease dismembering and judging. Spare the condemned interrogation and torture in the underworld offices, the pain of being cut and torn apart on knife mountains, of having their limbs boiled away in cauldrons until they fall apart, and of being split apart by windblades.

Release and deliver the departed ○○○ and all the other souls in the netherworld. Resolve their grievances against one another and refine their souls. Let them transcend to Zhuling, the celestial realm where they are refined by fire and ascend, and forever leave the Three Paths, the three painful courses of birth, death, and transmigration.

All shall be carried out in accordance with this celestial decree.

Issued under the Heavenly Cycle, in the year, month, and day: __

The (minister) in charge of carrying out the appropriate ritual duties receives the decree and carries it out.

Note: The blanks marked ○○○ are spaces in the ritual forms for entering the deceased person’s name or list of names. “True Talisman” and “hereby issued” indicate that a talismanic decree from the Jade Clarity realm is formally sent to the underworld, commanding the honored deities of each hall and the prison officials to stop punishments and release and deliver the souls. The text follows the format of decrees and talismanic documents used in Lingbao Zhaijiao rites for delivering the dead. In the names of the Celestial Worthies and deities of the underworld, it proclaims the remission of sins, release from prison, and rebirth in the Southern Palace.

Certified by the Patriarch, the Three-Heavens Supporter of the Teachings, the Orthodox Unity Perfected Lord of Serene Response, Zhang

True Talisman for Breaking the Bronze Pillar Hell in the Southeast of Jade Purity

When this talisman is sent down, relay it to the Heavenly Worthy of Nurturing Life and Delivering Souls in the Southeast, and then relay it to the underworld’s Sixth Hall, the Great King of Transformation, the Perfected Lord of Majestic Solemnity and Illustrious Achievement. Ask them to oversee the dark depths of the underworld and inform all the underworld officials in charge of the Bronze Pillar Hell: let the punishments of piercing and dismemberment cease. Let good and evil be judged clearly, as impartially as the sun and moon. Record the names, so that the deceased may leave the sea of suffering and escape the torments of the hells. Deliver the deceased ○○○ and all the wandering souls, dissolve their grudges and offenses, cleanse body and mind, and lead them out of hell to wander freely in Highest Clarity, in accordance with the celestial decree.

The year, month, ritual office, and master’s title are as above.

True Talisman for Breaking the Mutilation Hell in the Southwest of Jade Purity

When this talisman is sent down, relay it to the Heavenly Worthy of Great Spiritual Emptiness and Sovereignty in the Southwest, and then relay it to the underworld’s Seventh Hall, the Great King of Mount Tai, the Perfected Lord of Divine Transformation and the Myriad Spirits. Ask them to oversee the dark depths of the underworld and inform all the underworld officials in charge of the Mutilation Hell: let the punishments of piercing and dismemberment cease, and let their great, fearsome radiance be withdrawn. Spare the souls the torment of being torn apart by myriad blades, crushed beneath carts and trampled by horses, and sawn and cut to pieces. Deliver the deceased ○○○, whose salvation has been requested, and all those sunk in darkness. By virtue of this good merit, let them leave the sea of suffering and be delivered to the Southern Palace, in accordance with the celestial decree.

In the year, month, and day of the Celestial Cycle, this decree is issued.

The official charged with carrying out the ritual

receives the decree and carries it out.

Certified by the Patriarch, the Three-Heavens Supporter of the Teachings, the Orthodox Unity Perfected Lord of Serene Response, Zhang

True Talisman for Breaking the Fire Cart Hell in the Northwest of Jade Purity

When this talisman is sent down, relay it to the Heavenly Worthy of Boundless Great Florescence in the Northwest, and then relay it to the underworld’s Eighth Hall, the Great King of Equality, the Perfected Lord of Supreme Verification and Deliverance. Ask them to oversee the dark depths of the underworld and inform all the underworld officials in charge of the Fire Cart Hell: let the punishments of piercing and dismemberment cease. Spare the souls the torment of grinding and crushing, being steamed in cages, and being struck by lightning. In accordance with the underworld’s customary practice, commend and exalt their good fruits, so that they may leave the nether capital. Deliver the deceased ○○○ and all the departed spirits. By the power of the Dao, deliver them beyond the human and heavenly realms, straight to the Southern Palace, in accordance with the celestial decree.

These are three Daoist Fulu (talismanic documents) used in rituals to liberate departed souls, sharing similar formats but addressing different hell realms. The first document is addressed to the Supreme Jade Void Luminous Sovereign Celestial Worthy (Yu Xu Ming Huang Tian Zun), petitioning for the deliverance of souls from the "Shattering and Plundering Hell" where torments include crushing, eye-gouging, and rib-extraction. The Celestial Worthy will relay the plea to the Ninth Hall's Metropolis King (Du Shi Da Wang) and the Flying Demon Absolution True Lord (Fei Mo Qian Qing Zhen Jun), enabling the soul ○○○ and other trapped spirits to escape suffering and ascend directly to the Southern Palace (Nan Gong, the Daoist abode of immortals).

The second Fulu is directed to the True Sovereign Cavernous Spirit Celestial Worthy (Zhen Huang Dong Shen Tian Zun) and specifically targets the "Blood Lake and Crushing Stone Hell." Here, the torments are even more gruesome, involving immersion in a lake of blood and execution by bronze hammers. Through the mediation of the Tenth Hall's Wheel-Turning King (Zhuan Lun Da Wang) and the Five Splendors Majestic Spirit True Lord (Wu Hua Wei Ling Zhen Jun), the departed soul can escape the underworld and be reborn, free from further suffering.

The third document serves as a pathway-opening Fulu, addressed to local earth deities and guardians of mountains, rivers, and roads. It commands them not to obstruct the journey of the soul ○○○ and their relatives’ spirits, ensuring their safe arrival at the ritual altar. Through repentance and listening to scripture recitations, their sins are purified, granting them renewal.

Each Fulu concludes with authentication by a designated master (e.g., "Ancestral Master Zhang, the Orthodox Unity Serene Response True Lord of the Three Heavens' Teaching") and includes the name of the presiding ritualist (Keyi officiant) and the issuance date. These documents are transmitted across realms via the "Wind-Fire Courier System" (Feng Huo Yi Chuan), the Daoist conceptual express delivery network connecting heaven, earth, and the underworld.

A Vernacular Interpretation of the Lingbao Wenjian

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Supreme One Who Responds to Cries and Relieves Suffering · The Transcendence of the Departed

The True Talisman of the Jade Coffer of the Azure Palace of Jade-Clear Lingbao

This talisman is issued and transmitted as follows:

By command of the talisman of the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning, let it be proclaimed throughout the heavens. May the Supreme Emperor look down in gracious witness. May the Three Lights shine on high, and the Four Celestial Aspects illuminate the ten directions, bright and pure. May the spirits who govern the Five Capitals and the numinous luminaries of the constellations look down with mysterious discernment and turn back to guide the Heavenly Perfected. May the obscuring mists of the Celestial Origin disperse, and the Four Qi become clear and pure. As taught by the benevolent heavens, let the Jade Maidens receive and guide all without exception. May the ritual patron be devout; may the assembled Perfected descend in witness. Let this be proclaimed to the myriad spirits, and carried out entirely in accordance with the ritual.

Proclamation

Year and month, ritual office, and master’s title (in the same format as above)

Precious Register Proclamation for Transferring the Spirit and Bringing It to Heaven

The Altar of the Supreme, Primordial Unity hereby records:

In the realm of the Great Han, in the western district of Chengdu Prefecture, Sichuan Province, at [prefecture or county], [place], resides [name], who reverently follows the Dao and sincerely petitions for grace: to be delivered from suffering and brought to a place of rebirth, and to perform posthumous rites for [name] ○○○, in filial piety and faith.

The above-named person, together with the filial family members of the household, on this day makes a sorrowful plea. Since the time of their original creation, they have been separated by life and death for a number of years, and now seek to receive deliverance soon. In accordance with the Ritual Regulations of the Jade Coffer of Ziyang, they request the Jade Register Proclamation for Transferring the Spirit and Bringing It to Heaven, to be issued to the departed ○○○ as proof and authority for receiving rebirth.

The Supreme One’s Jade Text and Precious Talisman for Remitting Sins, Transferring the Spirit, and Bringing It to Heaven

This talisman is issued and transmitted as follows:

To the Great Emperor of Fengdu in the Northern Yin, the officials who preside over the ten great prisons of the underworld, and their subordinate clerks: deliver the souls of the departed ○○○ and others; extinguish their grave offenses; block and sever the sources of evil; deliver both body and spirit; let them pay audience at the Heavenly Gate of the Emperor. May blessings and wisdom arise of themselves; may they attend beside the Dragon Countenance; may their True Qi endure forever. Let this be so.

The Jade Text is issued in accordance with the statutes and commands.

Issued on the day, month, and year of the Celestial Cycle: __

Authorized to carry out the appropriate ritual affairs (minister): __

Receives the proclamation and carries it out.

The ancestral master, the Perfected Lord Zhang of Three-Heavenly Support for the Teachings of the Orthodox Unity, the Celestial Master (Tianshi), and the Perfected Lord of Quiet Response: __

Witness and guarantor.

The Supreme One’s True Talisman in Jade Text for Transferring the Spirit and Bringing It to Heaven

This talisman is issued and made known:

To the Three Officials and Nine Offices, the one hundred and twenty bureaus, the examining officials of the Five Emperors, and the authorities of the Heavenly Prison and earthly hells: in accordance with the command of this talisman, escort and protect the bodies and souls of the departed ○○○ and others, and permit them to ascend to court.

Notes for readers:

• The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Supreme One Who Responds to Cries and Relieves Suffering: A revered Daoist deity who often saves the suffering and delivers the dead.
• The Transcendence of the Departed: A vow to conduct a ritual liturgy for delivering the dead.
• Jade Coffer: A jade box; here it refers to a ritual system for storing Lingbao talismans and proclamations, the Rituals of the Jade Coffer of Ziyang.
• Transferring the Spirit and Bringing It to Heaven: Moving the soul of the deceased from the underworld so it may ascend and receive rebirth in the heavenly realm.
• The Great Emperor of Fengdu: The ruler of the ghostly kingdom of the Northern Yin in Daoist belief.
• The Three Officials and Nine Offices: The Officials of Heaven, Earth, and Water and their subordinate offices, which oversee merits and faults, life and death.
• The Perfected Lord Zhang of Orthodox Unity and Quiet Response: Usually refers to the lineage of the Celestial Masters; in ritual texts, the ancestral master who serves as witness and guarantor.

Plain-Language Interpretation of the Lingbao Wenjian

[Transferring the Spirit to Ascend to Truehood and Escape Life and Death]

After the merits and faults have been examined and settled in the imperial court (the Celestial Court), and past grievances and debts have been reconciled, the spirit unites with the Dao and ascends. It undergoes refinement at the Southern Gate (a passage of transformation in the southern heavens), attaining renewal. The statutes are carried out exactly as prescribed in the decree inscribed in jade.

(The year and month, ritual office, master’s title, and other details are the same as in the preceding text.)

This is the jade decree for the Most High’s Transfer of the Spirit to Ascend to Truehood and Deliverance from Life and Death.

What is inscribed on the talisman to the right is this decree.

Above, it reaches the Highest Clarity (the immortal realm of Shangqing); below, it extends to the Six Regions (all realms in the four directions, above and below).

By the compassion of Heaven, pardon and forgive the souls burdened by offenses in the Three Realms, the realm of emptiness and truth, the Nine Hells, the five paths of the underworld, the countless generations and ancestral lineages, and the suffering spirits and wandering essences.

Erase their names from the registers of guilt and extinguish the roots of evil. Let them quickly attain the realm of life, with Qi and awareness made full and abundant. Deliver the deceased ○○○.

Let the spirit ascend to Heaven, its substance refined and Shen clarified, its true heart made luminous and its original nature opened to spiritual insight—

In accordance with the decree inscribed in jade, carry out the statutes.

Issued on the _ day of the _ month, in the ___ year of Heaven’s cycle.

I, ○○○, ritual official empowered to act as appropriate, receive the decree and carry it out.

The patriarch, the True Lord Zhang of Still Response, Orthodox Unity, who supports the teachings of the Three Heavens　　　　　　　　　witnesses and confirms this.

[Refining the Spirit to Ascend to Truehood, the Precious Decree of Jade Clarity]

The jade text of the Most High’s Precious Decree of Refining the Spirit to Ascend to Truehood in Jade Clarity.

The talisman to the right petitions for:

The Nine Heavens’ Talisman for Preserving Life and Prolonging Years, which opens above the eight gates of transformation.

From Shangqing above to the Nine Earths below, including the thirty-seven prisons, let all torture cease. Let those who enforce punishment appear in the offices of the law to pay homage before the imperial throne.

Pardon and forgive past grievances and debts. Grant noble rank and rebirth in the realm above. Deliver the spirit of the deceased ○○○. Let it rise in rank and office according to its appointed grade and stand alongside the gods. In accordance with the Precious Decree of Jade Clarity, carry out the statutes.

Issued on the _ day of the _ month, in the ___ year of Heaven’s cycle.

I, ○○○, ritual official empowered to act as appropriate, receive the decree and carry it out.

The patriarch, the True Lord Zhang of Still Response, Orthodox Unity, Master of the Three Heavens　　　　　　　　　witnesses and confirms this.

[Transformed into an Immortal and Made Whole, the Precious Decree for Generating a Spirit]

The jade text of the Most High’s Precious Decree for Transformation into an Immortal and the Generation of a Spirit.

The talisman to the right issues this decree:

Deliver the spirit of the deceased ○○○. Advance its rank and increase its office; let it be promoted according to its grade. Let it hold the decree and pay homage to the True Ones. Assess its merits and reward it. Let it rise beyond the immortal realms and roam freely in Shangqing. In accordance with the Precious Decree for Generating a Spirit, carry out the statutes.

This is issued to the deceased ○○○ to wear, receive, and keep, so that they may be delivered to the realm of life.

Issued on the _ day of the _ month, in the ___ year of Heaven’s cycle.

Notes for Reading Ritual Documents

• Jade text: A formal decree carved on a jade talisman or ritual document, equivalent to an official document from the Celestial Court.
• Talisman to the right: The talisman placed beside the principal talisman in a ritual, corresponding to the text of the decree.
• Deliverance: Through a ritual master’s petitions and the use of talismans and decrees, the soul of the deceased is freed from suffering, elevated in rank, and refined.
• The True Lord Zhang of Still Response, Orthodox Unity: This title usually refers to Zhang Daoling, patriarch of the Zhengyi lineage. The word “witnesses and confirms” at the end indicates that the patriarch’s title serves as witness.
• The blank marked ○○○ is for the name of the deceased or the person for whom the ritual is performed.

Classic: Lingbao Wenjian

Patriarch, Lord of the Three Heavens and Founder of the Teaching, the True Lord Zhang of Orthodox Unity, Responsive Stillness　　　　　　　　Witness

Edict: Five Emperors’ Talismans for the Deceased

Jade Office True Talisman of the Azure Emperor of the East, of Jade Clarity

This talisman is promulgated below.

The true talisman of the East is to summon, command, and subdue the deceased through the divine clerks inscribed in the talisman, such as [Gui Zhu], [Gui Chang], and [Gui Chong], together with their attendants and talisman officials.

By means of the “Qi of Azure Elixir of the Forest of Blossoming Treasures” of the East, the vital energy of the East governed by the Azure Emperor, now summon the soul of the deceased ○○○ to descend. We request that true Qi descend and refine the embryo, so that the deceased may be reborn, regain bodily form, and recover their original nature. Let all be carried out exactly as commanded by the talisman.

Edict

In the year, month, and day of Heaven’s cycles, this is proclaimed below.

The official rites are to be carried out as appropriate. (I), having received this edict, shall carry it out.

Celestial Worthy Taiyi, Savior from Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Witness

Jade Office True Talisman of the Vermilion Emperor of the South, of Lingbao

This talisman is promulgated below.

The true talisman of the South is to summon, command, and subdue the deceased through the divine clerks, including [Gui Zhu] Chi, together with their attendants and talisman officials.

By means of the “Qi of Vermilion Elixir of Auspicious Yang of Brahma’s Treasure” of the South, the vital energy of the South governed by the Vermilion Emperor, now summon the soul of the deceased ○○○ to descend. We request that true Qi descend and refine the embryo, so that the deceased may be reborn, regain spirit, and recover their original nature, exactly as commanded by the talisman.

Edict

In the year, month, and day of Heaven’s cycles, this is proclaimed below.

The official rites are to be carried out as appropriate. (I), having received this edict, shall carry it out.

Celestial Worthy Taiyi, Savior from Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Witness

Jade Office True Talisman of the White Emperor of the West, of Jade Clarity

This talisman is promulgated below.

The true talisman of the West is to summon, command, and subdue the deceased through divine clerks such as [Gui Yue] and [Gui Feng], together with their attendants and descending officials.

By means of the “Qi of White Elixir of the Seven-Treasure Golden Gate” of the West, the vital energy of the West governed by the White Emperor, now summon the soul of the deceased ○○○ to descend. We request that true Qi descend and refine the embryo, so that the deceased may be reborn, regain bodily form, and recover their original nature, exactly as commanded by the talisman.

Edict

In the year, month, and day of Heaven’s cycles, this is proclaimed below.

The official rites are to be carried out as appropriate. (I), having received this edict, shall carry it out.

Celestial Worthy Taiyi, Savior from Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Witness

Jade Office True Talisman of the Black Emperor of the North, of Jade Clarity

This talisman is promulgated below.

The true talisman of the North is to summon, command, and subdue the deceased through divine clerks such as [Gui Bian] and [Gui Sheng], together with their attendants and talisman officials.

By means of the corresponding true Qi of the North, the vital energy of the North governed by the Black Emperor, now summon the soul of the deceased ○○○ to descend. We request that true Qi descend and refine the embryo, so that the deceased may be reborn, regain bodily form, and recover their original nature, exactly as commanded by the talisman.

Edict

In the year, month, and day of Heaven’s cycles, this is proclaimed below.

The official rites are to be carried out as appropriate. (I), having received this edict, shall carry it out.

Celestial Worthy Taiyi, Savior from Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Witness

Note for performing the rite:

This text follows the format of the “Five Emperors’ Talismans” in Lingbao liturgy. The jade office true talismans of the deities governing the four directions—Azure, Vermilion, White, and Black—command talisman officials to summon the souls of the deceased. The “elixir Qi” of each direction is used to “refine the embryo and bring about rebirth,” in the hope that the deceased’s body and spirit will be restored. At the end, the Celestial Worthy Taiyi, Savior from Suffering serves as witness to the covenant. The ○○○ marks where the deceased’s name is to be written. The bracketed forms are mostly split-character renderings of the names of ghosts and spirits in the talisman text; they appear this way in the original carved edition and were not introduced by the translator.

A Vernacular Interpretation of the Lingbao Wenjian

This text is a talisman proclamation used in Lingbao Daoist liturgy to deliver the souls of the dead. The Daoist burns talismans and recites proclamations, summoning divine Qi and Celestial Worthies from all directions to refine the deceased’s embryonic form and restore its shape, guide the soul across the Golden Bridge, and bathe it to remove impurities. This purifies the soul’s consciousness so it may approach the court and receive deliverance. The “○○○” marks indicate where the deceased’s name should be entered.

Qi of the Northern Cavern’s Dark Elixir

By this summons, issued at this time, may the soul of the deceased ○○○ descend. We invite the descent of true Qi to refine the embryo, restore life and form, and recover the original nature, in every respect as the proclamation commands.

Proclamation

By Heaven’s mandate, issued on the _ day of the _ month in the ___ year

The official in charge of carrying out the rites as circumstances require, (your servant) ___, receives the proclamation and carries it out.

Taiyi, the Heavenly Worthy Who Rescues from Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　witness and guarantor

The Jade Bureau’s True Talisman of the Yellow Emperor of Central Jade Clarity

This talisman is hereby proclaimed: the officials of the Central True Talisman and the talisman of the Palace of Mysterious Truth are to summon and bring the deceased’s soul down.

With the Qi of the Central Mysterious Spirit, the Primordial Elder’s Yellow Elixir, summon at this time the soul of the deceased ○○○. We invite the descent of true Qi to refine the embryo, restore life and form, and recover the original nature, in every respect as the proclamation commands.

Proclamation

By Heaven’s mandate, issued on the _ day of the _ month in the ___ year

The official in charge of carrying out the rites as circumstances require, (your servant) ___, receives the proclamation and carries it out.

Taiyi, the Heavenly Worthy Who Rescues from Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　witness and guarantor

The Supreme One’s True Talisman for the Golden Bridge of Ascension and Deliverance

This talisman is hereby proclaimed: the River Earl, the officials of the ferry crossings, the guardians of the Golden Bridge, and the other deities shall all obey its command and guide across the souls of the deceased ○○○ and others. In obedience to this talisman’s command, may they soon ascend the ritual bridge to undergo refinement and attain renewed life, in every respect as the proclamation commands.

(Golden Bridge: In Daoist liturgy, a bridge symbolizing the soul’s passage between Yin and Yang and its path to immortality. River Earl and officials of the ferry crossings: deities who govern ferries and bridges.)

Proclamation

By Heaven’s mandate, issued on the _ day of the _ month in the ___ year

The official in charge of carrying out the rites as circumstances require, (your servant) ___, receives the proclamation and carries it out.

Taiyi, the Heavenly Worthy Who Rescues from Suffering　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　witness and guarantor

The Supreme One’s True Talisman for Bathing and Delivering Souls

By command of the Supreme One’s talisman, we act universally for the souls of the deceased ○○○ and others: cleanse their bodies and bathe their substance; wash away murk and let purity flow; remove the sins and transgressions accumulated over many lifetimes; cleanse the stains of wrongdoing from previous lives and purify their spirits and souls. May they don their robes and approach the court, wear the precepts and carry talismans, ascend to the rank of the perfected, and awaken to the Dao, in complete accordance with the regulations and decrees of the Mysterious Rites.

Let this be carried out accordingly.

By Heaven’s mandate, issued on the _ day of the _ month in the ___ year

The official in charge of carrying out the rites as circumstances require, (your servant) ___, receives the proclamation and carries it out.

Note: “Witness and guarantor” at the end of each section indicates that Taiyi, the Heavenly Worthy Who Rescues from Suffering, bears witness to and protects the rite. “The official in charge of carrying out the rites as circumstances require” is a set phrase for the Daoist priest’s discretionary performance of the liturgy. “Refining the embryo and restoring life” and “restoring form and recovering nature” refer to the ritual’s power to transform the deceased’s soul from turbid to pure and from death toward life, restoring the body and spirit in a form that can receive deliverance.

A Vernacular Interpretation of the Lingbao Wenjian

The Great One Who Relieves Suffering: Witness and Confirmation

Supreme One’s True Talisman for Transforming Clothing

The talisman hereby proclaims:

Divine Kings who fly through the heavens in the boundless ten directions: rescue and recommend the deceased. Let them receive these garments of the underworld—the crimson silk robe, the five-colored robe, the Cloud Robe of the Nine Mounds, the pure robe for ascending to Heaven, and the immortal robe for attaining the Dao. Let these serve as adornments, so that body and spirit alike may reach perfection and ascend together to the Heavenly Terrace. In accordance with…

By the laws and commands of the Mysterious Rites, let this be carried out with utmost urgency.

Issued under the Heavenly Cycle, in the year, month, and day indicated.

The officiant carrying out the rites, (minister)　　　Receives the proclamation and carries it out.

The Great One Who Relieves Suffering: Witness and Confirmation

(Another) Supreme One’s Talisman for Transforming Clothing

(The second version may be used as needed.)

Jade Clarity’s True Talisman of Cinnabar Spirit for Renewing Life

The talisman hereby proclaims:

Jade Emperor and Jade Perfected Ones; Lords of the Three Sovereigns; Great One, Director of Destinies; Great Spirit Taokang; fierce tiger who summons and expels poison; celestial soldiers who hurl fire; officers and troops who drive out demons; deities who destroy ghosts and obliterate their forms; Lords of the spirits of the five viscera—may each protect and keep the deceased in peace. In Fengdu, at the Springs and Bends, let the ghostly camps be clearly established. Let the Demon Kings of the Great Thousand Worlds command their officials and troops. Let divine and holy artisans provide music and spirit youths. Let the Celestial Physician descend and rescue the souls of the dead. In accordance with…

By the laws and commands of the Mysterious Rites　　(The dates and ritual titles are as above.)

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Great One Who Hears the Cries and Relieves Suffering: Witness and Confirmation

Six Invocations

First Realm · Within the Northern Yin Realm

Jade Clarity’s True Talisman of the Five Emperors in Complete Form

With due reverence, this is hereby proclaimed:

The Mysterious Great Waters follow the numbers of the Five Phases. They give life and nourish beings, cleansing the heart and washing away thoughts. Their moisture nourishes and sustains, yet the souls of the dead rarely encounter them. Without great compassion, how could they be delivered? Let this be done urgently, as commanded by the Five Emperors’ Statute for Raising the Plague.

Issued under the Heavenly Cycle, in the year, month, and day indicated.

The officiant carrying out the rites, (minister)　　　Receives the proclamation and carries it out.

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Great One Who Hears the Cries and Relieves Suffering: Witness and Confirmation

Second Realm · Within the Southern Floating Realm

Jade Clarity’s True Talisman of the Five Directions’ True Qi for Release from Burdens

With due reverence, this is hereby proclaimed:

(The talisman’s text continues below. Its format is the same as above: the gods are summoned and proclaimed to, the souls of the dead are delivered, the commands are carried out, and the Heavenly Worthy witnesses and confirms the rite.)

Explanatory notes for ease of reading:

This text belongs to the Lingbao tradition of purification and offering rituals. It uses talismans, recites incantations, and records the date to invite the Great One Who Relieves Suffering and other deities to witness and confirm rites for transforming the deceased’s clothing, renewing their life, and summoning them across the different realms.

This text comes from Lingbao Wenjian, a collection of liturgical documents from the Lingbao school of Daoism. It consists largely of formal proclamation templates, the names of sacred talismans, and incantations, interspersed with coded language, designations for directions and times, and Sanskrit-sounding spells. The following is a plain-language translation arranged by section, with brief explanations.

I. Opening coded passage: liturgical formulas such as “squaring the corners and gathering the souls”

General sense:

This passage mostly consists of coded expressions or talismanic formulas used during ritual performance. It strings together the calendrical signs and names or name-like designations, so its words are difficult to match individually with everyday meanings.

The characters “Mao,” “Chen,” and “Yin,” for example, are Earthly Branches. In ritual contexts, they can refer to times, directions, or the turns of duty taken by divine generals.

Phrases such as “arise and generate … assist Chen … move Mao … the work of Yin is complete” can be understood as instructions to mobilize and assemble the divine Qi of the various directions, so that the ritual’s aims are fulfilled and all parties take their proper positions.

The passage then gives a formula for cultivating and summoning the hun and po:

“Square the corners and set them right; bring the hun and po together; draw them into position; nourish the flying hun; reunite the po; let the complete form appear; hasten and obey the command…”

In plain language: set the directions and angles correctly; bring the hun (yang spirit, clear and yang Qi) together with the po (yin essence, the Qi of bodily form); once they have been drawn into position, use ritual power to nourish the “flying hun”; reunite the po with the hun, so that the complete form and spirit appear. “Hasten and obey the command” means to act at once in accordance with the order, without delay.

The next heading is “The Command of the True Qi of the Five Directions of Jade Clarity.” “Jade Clarity” is one of the Three Pure Ones (Sanqing); here it refers to the ritual Qi originating in that realm. “Five Directions” means east, west, south, north, and center. “True Qi” is primordial, authentic Qi. “Command” means an order for the deities to carry out, like an official decree.

II. Proclamation formula: within the Third Realm, the Three Thousand Worlds

“The True Talisman of Jade Clarity’s Mysterious Writ, the Qi of the Heavenly Gate, and Release from Fear”

“Respectfully, let this proclamation be issued below” means that a formal notice is to be issued and delivered.

Meaning of the talisman, in brief:

The divine talisman issues its command to release distress and resolve grievances and entanglements; to escape forever from resentments and adversarial bonds; to sever all ties of conflict; to prevent evil karma from arising again; to eliminate the roots of wrongdoing; and to ascend beyond, returning to Jade Clarity, in accordance with this scripture.

“The Command of the Mysterious Writ of the Heavenly Gate, the Qi of Release from Fear” repeats the same intent in the form of a command, directing the deities to release fear and resolve grievances and entanglements.

The document ends with a standard formula:

“Under the Heavenly Cycle, in the year _, month _, day ___, this proclamation is issued” (fill in the date).

“Ritual officer [name], acting as appropriate, receives the decree and carries it out” (the officiating Daoist signs their name).

“Eastern Palace Compassionate Father, the Most High Lord Taiyi, Who Responds to Cries and Saves from Suffering, witness and confirm this covenant.” The Most High Lord Taiyi, Who Responds to Cries and Saves from Suffering, is often called the Celestial Worthy Who Responds to Cries and Saves from Suffering. “Witness and confirm” means that the Lord attests to the proclamation’s truth and validity.

“Within the Third Realm of the Three Thousand Worlds” refers to the third level of the ritual’s cosmic hierarchy, broadly indicating the sphere of deliverance across innumerable worlds.

III. The Fourth Level: within the Nine Provinces

“The True Talisman of the Eightfold Assembly’s Numinous Writ of Jade Clarity”

The proclamation’s general meaning is as follows:

Since countless kalpas—vast spans of time shared as a concept by Buddhism and Daoism—sentient beings have appeared and vanished through the cycle of rebirth without rest. Once they enter the gates of hell, they are terrified by every thought and impulse. Now they are to be freed from fear, to recite the immortal scriptures upon hearing their sound, to attain the supreme Dao together, and to ascend in a single company to pay court to the perfected ones.

The text also includes the Eightfold Assembly Numinous Writ Talisman and “the spell for summoning the ancestral Yin spirits, chanting of birth and death, and nurturing the po with Sanskrit Qi, as prescribed above.” This refers to a ritual method mentioned earlier, using a Sanskrit-like spell to summon Yin souls, chant of life and death, and nourish the Qi of the po.

“Command of the Mysterious Liturgy: carry it out with the speed of a shooting star” means that the commands of the Daoist liturgy are to be carried out immediately.

As before, the document includes spaces for the year, month, and day; the officiant’s statement that they have received and carried out the decree; and the Celestial Worthy Who Responds to Cries and Saves from Suffering as witness.

“Within the Fourth Level, the Nine Provinces” refers to the fourth level of the ritual hierarchy, the sphere of deliverance across the Nine Provinces—that is, all of China.

IV. The Fifth Level: within this realm

“The True Talisman of the Boundless Dharma Food of Jade Clarity”

The proclamation includes spell sounds and the name of the talisman:

“Om hum vaṃ la sa svāhā.”

This is a Sanskrit-sounding spell or esoteric mantra, written in characters resembling those used for Buddhist mantras. In ritual performance, each character is recited as a sound. Its efficacy lies in oral recitation, so it should not be forced into a word-by-word Chinese interpretation.

“The Great Brahmā Talisman of the Primordial Chaos, Boundless Dharma Food” refers to a talisman associated with the Great Brahmā of the primordial chaos, which provides boundless Dharma food. This food is offered to spirits, the dead, and lonely ghosts to deliver them from suffering and bring them to fulfillment.

The text also says, “Follow the Ailang lineage as prescribed above,” referring to a ritual method under the name “Ailang” mentioned earlier, and “in full accordance” with it.

The section concludes with “Command of the Mysterious Liturgy,” spaces for the year, month, and day, the officiant’s statement that they have received and carried out the decree, and the Celestial Worthy as witness.

“Within the Fifth Level, this realm” refers to the fifth level, the sphere corresponding to the ritual being performed at that moment.

V. Summary of the text’s character

The opening formula sets the directions, brings the hun and po together, nourishes the flying hun, and restores the complete form and spirit, with a command to act at once.

The various true talismans are issued from the realm of Jade Clarity and are used to release distress, resolve entanglements, dispel fear, and provide Dharma food.

The proclamation format includes the date, the Daoist officiant’s statement that they have received and carried out the decree, and the Celestial Worthy Who Responds to Cries and Saves from Suffering as witness.

The realms progress from the Three Thousand Worlds to the Nine Provinces and then to this realm, indicating a movement in the scope of deliverance from the vast to the immediate.

Many of the spells consist of Sanskrit-like sounds or characters used in ritual commands. They should be pronounced according to the ritual text rather than translated as ordinary sentences.

Note: The original contains many blanks to be filled in, such as the year, month, day, and officiant’s name, as well as references to material elsewhere (“as prescribed above”). It should be read alongside the complete Lingbao Wenjian and its ritual annotations. This plain-language rendering focuses on the liturgical function and meaning of the proclamations. If the complete text provides explanations of the coded language or talismanic formulas, those explanations should take precedence.

This text comes from a Lingbao liturgical document. It records the talismans, incantations, and recitation sequence used to save souls in the netherworld, make offerings above, and pray for blessings.

In service of the Rite of Expedient Salvation (the officiant)　Receiving the Mandate and carrying it out

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Celestial Worthy Taiyi Who Relieves Suffering (a Celestial Worthy who dwells in the east and compassionately relieves suffering)　　　　　　　　　Witness and certify (witness the oath)

Within the Sixth Limitless Realm

True Talisman of the Jade Clarity Command to Sprinkle Sweet Dew

Respectfully, let this be proclaimed and issued below (formally presented and issued according to ritual)

May limitless food from the Three Heavens fill the Dharma Realm. May the hungry and empty become full; may those afflicted by heat and distress find coolness… May all ascend together to the Realm of Supreme Bliss…

(Star-fire) respectfully carries out the command

(Ritual office) seal

Five Offerings Talisman

True Talisman of Jade Clarity for Incense Offering and Refining Incense　　Named Talisman of Wise Light

This talisman is hereby issued below.

Om ju… zhi ti a le nang suo jia lou fu ye… da chi hong he, thus may it be, in accordance with the command.

(The incantation is transcribed by sound; its general meaning is that the command is fulfilled.)

The command is transmitted by wind-and-fire courier (the mandate is sent with the urgency of a swift dispatch)

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

In service of the Rite of Expedient Salvation (the officiant)　　Receiving the Mandate and carrying it out

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Celestial Worthy Taiyi Who Hears Voices and Relieves Suffering　　　　　　　Witness and certify

Merit held in the heart, Shen settled; silently recite with Qi (keep merit in the heart, settle the spirit and vital energy, and silently recite while directing Qi)

Amid boundless Fengdu (Chou)　　layer upon layer of Vajra Mountains (Shen)　　the limitless light of Lingbao (Mao)

Shines through the anguish of the fiery pools (Chen)　　the souls of all beings in the Ninefold Abyss (Hai)　　their bodies follow the banner of fragrant clouds (…)

The blue lotus of settled wisdom (Yin)　　may they ascend to the divine and live in peace above (Wu)

(The terms in parentheses are directional cues or instructions for pacing the ritual ground; they are often performed together with the rite.)

True Talisman of Jade Clarity for Flower Offering and Refining Flowers　　Named Talisman of Release from the Cold Court (symbolizing escape from the suffering of the cold forest and underworld)

This talisman is hereby issued below.

Om san luo gong san zhuo da duo zhuo… hong zha… he, thus may it be.

By the laws and commands of the esoteric rites, let the star-fire carry this out.

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

In service of the Rite of Expedient Salvation (the officiant)　　Receiving the Mandate and carrying it out

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Celestial Worthy Taiyi Who Hears Voices and Relieves Suffering　　　　　　　Witness and certify

Merit held in the heart, Shen settled; silently recite with Qi

The golden light of merit (jade script)　　gently opens the darkness　　the Flower Pool flows with true fragrance

The lotus canopy floats with the clouds　　a thousand spirits surge into primordial harmony　　they dwell forever in the Twelve Towers

Swiftly proclaim the decree of Lingbao　　and roam freely in heaven

Note: The original contains several talisman forms, missing characters, or variant written forms. The incantation passages are ritual sounds and should not be translated as though each syllable had a definite meaning. The passage follows this structure: invoke the Celestial Worthy as witness; issue the talisman; recite the incantation and pacing verse; then record the date and the officiant’s name, confirming that the mandate has been carried out. This is a standard format in Lingbao purification rites for delivering departed souls and making the five offerings of incense and flowers.

Plain-Language Commentary on the Lingbao Wenjian

Jade-Clear Lamp Offering: True Talisman for Refining the Lamp (also called the Talisman for Summoning Generals)

Talisman’s charge (the text on the talisman reads):

This talisman is issued in accordance with the liturgy.

Meaning of the incantation:

Om, hong, li, po, he… (secret mantra syllables used to command the divine generals). All shall proceed in accordance with the proper ordinances.

How it is issued:

By Heaven’s mandate, on such-and-such a year, month, and day, this command is dispatched by wind-and-fire relay, as swiftly as an urgent official document.

Execution:

I, the minister charged with carrying out the liturgical procedures as appropriate, such-and-such, receive the command and respectfully put it into effect.

Witness and confirmation:

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Celestial Worthy of Great Unity Who Responds to Cries and Rescues from Suffering, presides at the altar as witness and confirms the rite.

Key points for practice:

Keep merit in the heart, settle the spirit and Qi, and silently direct the Qi while reciting the incantation.

(Noon liturgical text: verses associated with the Nüqing Lingbao talisman):

The Cold Court is filled with grief and suffering—the spirits of the dead endure deep sorrow in the Cold Court;

Turn back and bow to the Primordial Sovereign—turn back and pay homage to the Celestial Worthy of Primordial Beginning;

Written by the True Emperor of Zhongshan—the talismanic command was written by the True Emperor of Zhongshan;

A single thought brings ascent to the Great Purity—in an instant, one may ascend to the Heaven of Great Purity;

Silently contemplate the Great Nonbeing—silently recite and envision the realm of Great Nonbeing;

Merit shines down into the Ninefold Darkness—merit illuminates the Ninefold Darkness below;

Gradually, one is born into the Purple Void—one gradually takes form in the Purple Void, an immortal realm.

Jade-Clear Water Offering: True Talisman for Refining Water

Talisman’s charge (the text on the talisman reads):

The Red Radiance of the Cavern Heaven and the numinous brilliance of the Cinnabar Glow—by their power, illuminate and complete my incantation. By the command of the Celestial Book, the Golden Slips, and the precious registers, may every method of obstruction be dispelled. The Most High commands and restrains the deluded occupants of the Primordial Celestial Palace. All shall proceed in accordance with the proper ordinances.

Issuance:

As before, it is announced by wind-and-fire relay, by Heaven’s mandate on such-and-such a year, month, and day. I, such-and-such, receive the command and respectfully put it into effect. The Celestial Worthy of Great Unity Who Responds to Cries and Rescues from Suffering bears witness and confirms the rite.

Jade-Clear Fruit Offering: True Talisman for Refining Fruit (also called the Talisman for Summoning Solitary Spirits)

Talisman’s charge (the text on the talisman reads):

The Jade Dawn of Primordial Simplicity rides a red dragon, reaching upward to the Infinite and downward into the Netherworld. Pursue and summon the spirits of the Five Paths, the Four Modes of Birth, the thousand kinds, the ten classes, and the Ninefold Darkness; bring them swiftly here. Command them—command them! Summon and gather all ghosts and spirits, in strict accordance with the ordinances.

Issuance:

Dispatched by wind-and-fire relay and announced on such-and-such a day. The command is received and carried out. The Celestial Worthy of Great Unity Who Responds to Cries and Rescues from Suffering bears witness and confirms the rite.

Jade Talismans for Refining and Delivering the Dead to Rebirth (Nine Paths)

First Path: Jade Talisman for Refining and Delivering the Dead to Rebirth

Talisman’s charge (the text on the talisman reads):

We respectfully beseech the Celestial Worthy of Great Unity, the Rescuer from Suffering, to descend in compassion and attend the Jade Altar, overseeing the ritual of refining and delivering the soul of the deceased such-and-such, along with the spirits of the ancestors and others, so that they may be delivered and return to life.

Notes to help readers follow the liturgy:

• Jade-Clear: The Heaven of Jade Purity, one of the Three Pure Ones realms; here, it names a category of offerings used in purification rites, associated with a realm below the Supreme Purity Heaven.
• Refining the lamp, water, and fruit: In liturgical rites, lamps, water, and fruit serve as ritual media symbolizing the refinement and purification of the spirits of the dead.
• Wind-and-fire relay: A Daoist term for official documents, suggesting that a command is transmitted rapidly throughout the Three Realms.
• Liturgical procedures carried out as appropriate: Procedures put into effect according to the circumstances and the requirements of the liturgy.
• Refining and delivering the dead to rebirth: A Lingbao ritual involving talismans and liturgy to deliver the dead from suffering and enable them to attain the conditions for rebirth.

(In the original, ○○○ marks a place to enter the name of the deceased. The title or ritual name of the Daoist priest follows “minister.”)

This scripture is a Daoist ritual document for the salvation and refinement of departed souls, primarily containing four "Jade Talismans for Refinement and Rebirth." Each talisman is issued under the authority of different celestial venerables—the Jiuyou Salvation Venerable, the Shifang Lingbao Venerable, and the Zhuling Life-Granting Venerable.

The ritual aims to assist the souls of the deceased (including specific individuals and ancestral spirits) in escaping the underworld (the Yuan You Realm). Through nine stages of refinement, their hun (ethereal soul) and po (corporeal soul) are purified and realigned. The text emphasizes the need for departed souls to "regulate Yin-Yang," balancing these opposing energies, ultimately achieving the sublime state of "refinement into perfected humanity." This transformation allows them to transcend the suffering of samsara (the Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Calamities) and ascend to the immortal realms, attaining unfettered liberation.

The phrase "life and body receive salvation, enduring through kalpas" signifies that the refined souls will persist eternally alongside the cycles of heaven and earth. "Equal in years to the heavens" denotes their attainment of longevity matching the cosmos. "Shangqing" (Upper Clarity) represents the highest of the Three Pure Realms (Sanqing) in Daoist cosmology, while "complete unity" (yiru) indicates perfect harmony with the Dao.

Each talisman concludes with the endorsement of "the Ancestral Master, Zhengyi True Lord Zhang of the Three Heavens’ Support and Teaching, Silent Response and Manifest Protection" (i.e., the Celestial Master Zhang Daoling). The ritual is executed by the presiding Daoist priest (referred to as "the officiant minister performing expedient rites"). Transmission to the celestial realms occurs via the "wind-fire courier relay," a specialized method, and the ritual is conducted on an auspicious date.

This ceremony embodies the Daoist belief in salvation through the blessings of celestial venerables, the power of talismans (fulu), and refinement rituals. It enables departed souls to escape suffering, attain the Dao, and ascend to immortality.

This scripture records the talismanic content (Fulu) of the Daoist "Refinement and Salvation" (Liandu) ritual, primarily used for the liberation of departed souls. The recurring phrase "Jade Talisman of Refinement, Salvation, and Return to Life" refers to a crucial ritual implement employed during Daoist salvation ceremonies for the deceased.

During the ritual, the priest invokes three celestial venerables through incantations—the Golden Tower Incarnate Venerable (Jinque Huashen Tianzun), the Great Bridge of Dharma Deliverance Venerable (Faqiao Dadu Tianzun), and the Fire Refinement Alchemical Realm Venerable (Huolian Danjie Tianzun)—to descend upon the Jade Altar (Yaotan, the sacred ritual platform in Daoism) to assist in the salvation of departed souls. These include spirits of the recently deceased, ancestral souls, and wandering ghosts from the Primordial Netherworld (Yuanyoujie, the Daoist conception of the underworld) who lack proper memorial rites.

The scripture describes how the "Nine Refinements" (Jiulian, nine transformative purifications) rectify the yin-yang souls of the deceased, liberating them from the "Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Calamities" (referring to the three woeful realms of hell, hungry ghosts, and animals; the five sufferings of birth, aging, sickness, death, and separation; and eight types of misfortune). Through this refinement process, the souls transcend suffering and ascend to the immortal realms to attain carefree liberation.

The ritual concludes with the endorsement of "Master Zhang, the True Lord of Orthodox Unity Who Supports the Teaching of the Three Heavens" (referring to Zhang Daoling, patriarch of the Zhengyi tradition), serving as celestial witness, while the presiding priest performs the liturgical rites (Keyi). The repeated phrase "imperial decree transmitted by wind-fire couriers" indicates these talismanic commands are rapidly delivered to celestial realms through elemental messengers.

The complete text demonstrates the Daoist sacred ritual process for soul liberation, embodying the tradition's unique understanding of the cycle of life and death and its path toward deliverance.

A Vernacular Interpretation of the Lingbao Ritual Documents

Eighth Refinement-and-Salvation Returning-to-Life Jade Talisman

This talisman proclaims:

The Celestial Worthy of Untroubled Joy respectfully entreats Heaven’s compassion to descend upon the Jade Altar and oversee the refinement and salvation of the soul of the deceased [name], together with the souls of the ancestors and the many unclaimed spirits in the official’s lower nether realm. May the souls be drawn out of the underworld, Yin and Yang be put in order, and the hun and po souls restored to their proper state. Through nine refinements, may they be made whole as human beings, receive salvation in every generation, endure through every kalpa, and pass through the turning of the kalpas, their years equal to Heaven’s. May they forever escape the Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Hardships, ascend beyond the immortal realms, and dwell in untroubled freedom.

The Upper Clarity is all of one substance.

The imperial command is carried by wind-and-fire relay, proclaimed throughout the world with the speed of wind and lightning.

Issued under Heaven’s mandate, in the year, month, and day.

I, [name], authorized to perform the rites as appropriate, receive the command and carry it out.

The founding patriarch, the Perfected Lord Zhang [name], who supports the teachings of the Three Heavens and is rightly honored for his quiet response and manifest protection, bears witness and confirms this rite.

Ninth Refinement-and-Salvation Returning-to-Life Jade Talisman

This talisman proclaims:

The Celestial Worthy of Perfected Precious Splendor respectfully entreats Heaven’s compassion to descend upon the Jade Altar and oversee the refinement and salvation of the soul of the deceased [name], together with the souls of the ancestors and the many unclaimed spirits in the official’s lower nether realm. May the netherworld souls be drawn out, Yin and Yang be put in order, and the hun and po souls restored to their proper state. Through nine refinements, may they become human beings, receive salvation in every generation, endure through every kalpa, and pass through the turning of the kalpas, their years equal to Heaven’s. May they forever escape the Three Paths, Five Sufferings, and Eight Hardships, rise beyond the immortal realms, and enjoy untroubled freedom.

The Upper Clarity is all of one substance.

The imperial command is carried by wind-and-fire relay.

The month, day, ritual office, and master’s title are the same as above.

Talismans and Documents of the Three Origins

True Jade Talisman-Document of the Celestial Official of the Upper Origin, Who Bestows Blessings

Let this be announced to the divine realms of Heaven, to the presiding officers of the celestial prisons and the myriad gods, and to all examining officials, presiding officers, high-ranking attendants, jailers, and clerks of the courts throughout the heavens, caverns, and dark domains.

Explanation for Understanding the Ritual Context

This text belongs to the ritual-document genre used in Lingbao rites of refinement and salvation. At the altar, Daoist priests burn or recite talismanic commands, invoking the authority of Celestial Worthies and imperial decrees to “refine the body and deliver the soul” of the deceased. Refinement and salvation uses symbolic elements such as pools of water and fire to transform souls in the underworld and raise them to immortality. The Returning-to-Life Jade Talisman is the name of the jade talisman used in the eighth and ninth stages of refinement and salvation; it signifies the restoration of the soul and the granting of human life anew. “Unclaimed spirits” refers to wandering souls in the underworld without anyone to care for them. The Three Paths—fire, blood, and knives—and the Five Sufferings and Eight Hardships are terms for afflictions shared by Daoist and Buddhist traditions; here, they signify the suffering from which the deceased will be freed forever. “Wind-and-fire relay” describes the Daoist vision of how commands are transmitted in Heaven: like a relay station driven by wind and fire, they are delivered with great speed. “The Perfected Lord Zhang, who supports the teachings of the Three Heavens and is rightly honored for his quiet response and manifest protection” refers to the Zhengyi patriarch Zhang Daoling, or to the Perfected Lord Zhang revered in the lineage. His role as witness and confirmer at the end indicates that the rite conforms to the rules of the ancestral tradition. The Celestial Official of the Upper Origin belongs to the Daoist belief in the Three Officials. On the Upper Origin Festival, the fifteenth day of the first lunar month, he presides over the bestowal of blessings. His true jade talisman-document is used to make an announcement to the celestial authorities and prison officials, seeking the removal of calamities and the bestowal of blessings upon the deceased. The placeholders in the text are spaces for the deceased’s name and the Daoist priest’s ritual office and other titles.

A Plain Language Explanation of Documents Related to the Lingbao Wenjian

I. Deliverance of the Souls of the Deceased (Petition)

We pray that the souls of the deceased, including [name], be delivered: may they leave the long night of the shadow realm forever, be freed from grave offenses, and have the roots of evil and impurity blocked. May body and spirit ascend together and pay homage at the Emperor’s Gate in Heaven. May blessings arise through wisdom; may they ride beside the dragon chariot in service, and may the true Dao endure forever. In accordance with this (may all that is wished for be fulfilled, true to the vow).

Edict (a formal decree issued by Heaven)

Issued under Heaven’s mandate, on the _ day of the _ month, in the year ___.

The official conducting the ritual, [name], receives the edict and carries it out.

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Great Celestial Worthy Taiyi Who Responds to Cries and Relieves Suffering, serves as witness and guarantor (bearing witness and granting protection).

II. Golden-Book Treasure Edict of the Earth Official for the Ghost Festival

Cinnabar Script of the Golden-Book Treasure Edict of the Earth Official of the Middle Origin, in the Jade Clarity Realm (a golden-book treasure edict issued by the Earth Official of the Middle Origin in the Jade Clarity realm, written in cinnabar script)

Proclaimed in the Inner Voice from the Purple Court of the Nine Heavens, in the Jade Palace of Highest Clarity (proclaimed in the inner voice from the Jade Palace of Highest Clarity and the Purple Court of the Nine Heavens)

Great Gods who govern the celestial prisons and earthly hells under the Three Officials: deliver the souls of the deceased, including [name]. Keep and receive the talismanic command; escort and protect their bodies and souls as they ascend to the Heavenly Gate. Dispel karmic debts and sunk spirits; let them ascend to the Jade Palace to undergo refinement, and endure forever, in accordance with this.

Edict

Issued under Heaven’s mandate, on the _ day of the _ month, in the year ___.

The official conducting the ritual, [name], receives the edict and carries it out.

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Great Celestial Worthy Taiyi Who Responds to Cries and Relieves Suffering, serves as witness and guarantor.

III. True Talisman of the Lower Origin for Ascending to Truehood and Leaving the Cycle of Life and Death

True Talisman of the Lower Origin, in the Jade Clarity Realm, for Ascending to Truehood and Leaving the Cycle of Life and Death

Let this be announced to those who govern the Ninefold Darkness, the ten directions, and the Three Realms:

Written in red script in the Jade Clarity realm, it reaches upward to the Purple Court. By Heaven’s compassion and forgiveness, deliver the deceased [name] and their innumerable ancestors through countless generations, whose spirits suffer. Release the spirits of the departed and erase their records of offenses; extinguish the roots of evil and quickly send them to the realm of life. May their Qi and consciousness find peace. May they ascend to Heaven, purify their spirits and refine their substance, and let their true hearts shine clearly. Sweep away the shadows of Yin and enter the Dao to attain truehood. In accordance with this.

Edict

Issued under Heaven’s mandate, on the _ day of the _ month, in the year ___.

The official conducting the ritual, [name], receives the edict and carries it out.

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Great Celestial Worthy Taiyi Who Responds to Cries and Relieves Suffering, serves as witness and guarantor.

IV. Golden Dragon Jade Tablet of Blessings from the Celestial Official of the Upper Origin

Golden Dragon Jade Tablet of Blessings from the Celestial Official of the Upper Origin, in the Jade Clarity Realm

At the Supreme Altar of the Primordial Origin, respectfully in accordance with the Dao’s command, [name] requests that the Celestial Tablet be issued and delivered.

To the immortal officials who preside over the numinous mountains and grotto-heavens of this place:

The disciple who has inherited the teaching, [name], respectfully undertakes the purification rite on the ___ day of this month. The sponsor of the rite is [name]…

(This passage records the altar’s request to receive the Celestial Official’s Jade Tablet of Blessings in accordance with the Dao’s command. On a specified day, the disciple who has inherited the teaching undertakes the purification rite and enters the sponsor’s name. The final line of the original is not fully visible in the image; its structure follows the ritual documents used to receive a written authorization and report the purification rite.)

Note for reading ritual documents: “Three Officials” usually refers to the Celestial Official, the Earth Official, and the Water Official. “Upper Origin, Middle Origin, and Lower Origin” are associated with the Three Origins purification rites and the worship of the Three Officials. “Deliverance” and “transcendence” refer to using ritual to free the souls of the deceased from suffering and guide them upward. “Edict,” “carry out,” and “witness and guarantor” are set phrases used at Lingbao altars when petitioning the Celestial Worthies, receiving talismanic commands, and performing rites. The blank spaces marked [name] are for the names of the deceased, Daoist ritual names, or altar details.

This is a liturgical document for the Daoist Yellow Register Zhaijiao (a major ritual for the salvation of deceased souls), recording the complete procedure for conducting a salvation ceremony.

First, the patron of the ritual (the person sponsoring the ceremony) leads their family in setting up an altar at a designated location to hold the grand "Supreme Three Primes Yellow Register Great Rite for Alleviating Suffering," which continues for several days and nights. The purpose of this ritual is to guide the souls of deceased relatives to salvation while also universally redeeming all wandering ghosts, helping them repent for their sins and dissolve karmic obstacles.

After the ceremony concludes, the Daoist priests submit memorial documents (similar to official petitions) to the celestial court and the underworld. The first document is addressed to the immortal officials of the local sacred grotto-heavens, requesting their approval of the salvation petition. This asks the Fengdu Hell (the Daoist judicial institution of the underworld) to erase the records of the deceased souls' sins, allowing them to ascend to the celestial realms. The document is delivered via the "Golden Dragon Courier System" (the Daoist divine postal network reserved for deities).

The second document is submitted to the "Ninefold Earthly Sovereigns of the Central Palace of the Household" (the guardian spirits of the earth veins beneath the residence). Its content is similar, beseeching the underworld to cease punishments for the deceased souls so that all sinful spirits may attain salvation. References to "severed blades on the Mountain of Knives" and "blunted edges on the Forest of Swords" depict the tortures of hell as described in Daoist texts.

Finally, the document specifies the exact date of the ritual’s performance. The presiding Daoist priest conducts the liturgy (Keyi) in accordance with ritual protocols, invoking the Celestial Worthy of Universal Salvation (Taiyi Jiuku Tianzun, a Daoist deity specifically devoted to saving lost souls) as a witness. The recurring mentions of "golden and jade memorial tablets" (Jinjian Yujian) refer to the ceremonial tablets made of gold, silver, and jade, which symbolize heavenly passage permits in Daoist rituals.

A Plain-Language Reading of the Lingbao Document

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Celestial Worthy of Great Unity Who Responds to Calls and Rescues from Suffering serves as witness and guarantor.

Golden Dragon and Jade Document for the Water Official of the Lower Origin, Who Relieves Calamities

The Altar of the Supreme Unified Lineage respectfully receives authorization in accordance with the Dao’s decree and requests the issuance of a water document addressed to the True Ruler of the Water Bureau of the local Spirit-Source Pool and Cavern.

The inheritor of the teaching, the “young adept” [name], respectfully received the ritual sponsor [name] and the sponsor’s family on [date]. At [place], they established an altar and solemnly conducted the Supreme Yellow Register Retreat of the Three Origins for Deliverance from Suffering for several days and nights. On [date], the retreat was completed. Offerings were made for the soul of the deceased [name], whose rites were conducted at this retreat, as well as for deceased relatives to be delivered and for all solitary and neglected spirits, so that their foremost offenses might be repented and their transgressions erased at the gates of the underworld.

Now that the retreat is complete and the ritual altar is being dismantled, this offering rite is performed in gratitude for divine grace. As the altar is taken down, this document is cast into the water and delivered to the True Ruler of the Water Bureau of the local Spirit-Source Pool and Cavern.

In accordance with the petition, grant your support and aid. Let the records of sin be swiftly cleared and past offenses quickly released; let suffering cease in the Deep Springs and grief be stilled in the Nine Earths. May the deceased souls be delivered and ascend to the Nine Heavens. Add their merits to the Jade Register and enter their names in the Golden Book. May those still living attain the Dao, and may the dead be transformed into flying immortals. A painted jade disc serves as token of trust; a golden dragon bears this document by relay.

May everything be carried out according to this proclamation.

Issued on the [day] of the [month] in the [year] of the Celestial Cycle.

The official conducting the liturgy, [name], receives the proclamation and carries it out.

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Celestial Worthy of Great Unity Who Responds to Calls and Rescues from Suffering serves as witness and guarantor.

Yellow Writ of the Three Origins

The Convenient Office of the Primordial Beginning’s Infinite Taiji issues this writ:

To the Immortal Officials who preside over the Grotto Heavens of this locality, and to the Immortal Officials who administer the records of life, death, and sin under the Primordial Sovereign:

We have heard that the teaching was proclaimed in the Red Radiance era, when the Father of the Dao transmitted the tradition of refining and delivering souls; and that the Yellow Register opened its charts, while the mysterious rites established the system for ascent and deliverance. These rites aid both the dead and the living, completing their work in both realms; they benefit both the hidden and the manifest, extending their grace across both worlds. To aid the spirits confined behind the gates of the Springs, we first unfold the brocade pouch of clouds.

We respectfully consult the scripture, which says: Purple Tenuity’s Clear Void and Grotto of Yin oversees all merits and faults, bestows blessings, pardons sins, relieves calamities, and broadly aids both the living and the dead. Its Dao crowns the heavens, yet no place lies beyond its reach; its grace extends through the Three Realms, and it answers every sincere appeal.

Now, in accordance with…

Notes for Reading the Original

This text follows the format used in Lingbao purification rites and offerings: the first part casts a document into the Water Palace, asking the Water Bureau to relieve calamities and deliver the dead; the second part has the Office of the Primordial Beginning issue a Yellow Writ directing the Immortal Officials of the Grotto Heavens and the officials who administer records of sin to act in accordance with the scripture. The bracketed fields, such as the inheritor’s name, date, and name of the deceased, are filled in during the ritual.

The “Plain Language Interpretation of the Lingbao Document”

Declaration of the Daoist’s identity:

I, your Daoist subject, have received the precious registers and golden casket of the Jade Books of the Supreme, Infinite Great Dao, the highest credentials in Fulu (talismans and registers). I hold the rank of an upper-grade immortal selected by the Primordial Purple Palace, and uphold the teachings transmitted by the Emperor Lord of Eastern Florescence. I now preside at the altar to carry out rites for delivering the dead. I, the Daoist subject [ritual name], approach with awe and trepidation, bowing low and touching my head to the ground, and respectfully submit this petition:

Statement of the faithful:

I, your petitioner, reside in [place] in [county], [prefecture], [circuit], Sichuan Province, under the Great Han realm. I have embraced the Dao and pledged my sincerity, and beg for compassion to refine and deliver the dead, so that my ancestors and kin may all be recommended and ascend together to a pure realm.

The faithful and filial donor [name], who sponsors the purification ritual, together with the members of the household, submit this petition today. We have chosen the auspicious hour on [date] to begin, and, relying on the Dao, will hold at home the supreme Three Officials’ Yellow Register Great Purification Rite for Delivering the Suffering Dead, with offerings and observances carried out day and night for a set number of days, concluding on [date].

We make this petition especially to the perfected sovereigns, who magnanimously bring forth transformation. We pray for their grace in delivering the principal deceased person to be recommended in this rite, [name], and also in recommending [name], together with our ancestors, relatives, friends, and the solitary ghosts and unclaimed spirits among them. May all spirits of the netherworld be delivered, share in the benefits of goodness, and soon attain rebirth in a blessed realm.

Record of the ritual proceedings:

Having received this petition, this office has already carried out the rites of refinement and deliverance according to the prescribed procedures, selecting this date by divination and now making a formal declaration to the Three Realms of Heaven, Earth, and humanity. In accordance with the ritual canons, we have praised and proclaimed the precious registers, reverently unfurled the sacred models, and completed the appointed recitations of the precious scriptures.

We now propose, in accordance with the law, to draw forth and deliver all deceased souls within the jurisdiction of the Celestial Prison of the Upper Origin who are to be recommended. In proportion to their accrued merit, they shall be delivered and raised up. Bearing dragon tablets and jade bi discs as tally tokens, we submit them to the immortal officials of the grotto heavens, immortal palaces, famous mountains, and blessed lands in this region, requesting that they mark these good deeds and inscribe the names in the registers of the immortals.

Now, in accordance with the true talismanic writ of the Dragon Seal of the Celestial Court of the Upper Origin, this notification must be issued as follows.

Text of the talismanic dispatch:

This dispatch is issued to the offices of the gods in the grotto heavens, immortal palaces, famous mountains, and blessed lands of this region.

Let the officials of the underworld in the Celestial Prison of the Upper Origin take notice:

This purification rite is conducted in accordance with the teachings and ritual canons. Permission is hereby granted to deliver all souls who have accumulated good merit and to release the deceased person to be recommended in this rite, [name], together with the additionally recommended ancestors of the family, their solitary ghosts, and other unclaimed spirits.

Let them swiftly emerge from the shadows of the netherworld and leave Mount Feng forever. May they encounter no former enemies, and may their grievances be resolved and their debts of sin cleared.

May those who seek spirit attain spirit, and those who seek immortality attain immortality. May they roam freely in the pure realm and ascend to the cloud heavens.

May the Celestial Officials recommend and protect them, and may the golden dragon convey them by relay. Let this be carried out accordingly!

Note:

This is a complete ritual document for the Daoist Three Officials’ Yellow Register Great Purification Rite for Delivering the Suffering Dead. It has three parts: the invocation, in which the Daoist states their identity and the faithful express their wishes; the report of merit, which records the scriptures recited and the rites of refinement and deliverance performed; and the talismanic dispatch, which formally notifies the underworld officials and authorizes the souls’ ascent.

From the statutes of the mysterious realm: This petition is issued as set forth above. All officers in charge within the jurisdiction should be informed and carry it out accordingly.

By command of the Mysterious One, execute this with utmost haste. This petition is therefore issued.

In the year, month, and day of the Celestial Cycle: __

The ritual officer (your servant) __ has received the instruction and will carry it out.

Witness and guarantor: the Heavenly Worthy, Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, Great One Who Responds to Cries and Rescues from Suffering.

Petition from the Supreme Altar of the Primordial Origin

(Petition for the Zhongyuan Festival)

To: The local spirit officials and rulers of the Earth Bureau, and the immortal officials and record keepers who administer life, death, and sin during the Zhongyuan Festival.

We respectfully submit that since the Dragon-Han era first opened the sacred registers, the wondrous truths of the Three Vehicles have shone forth; and since Quanzhen expounded its teachings, the profound meanings of the Five Grades have been widely revealed. The Most High, compassionate toward all beings, takes as his purpose the salvation of all under Heaven. Through forgiveness of sins and relief from calamities, the evil deeds accumulated over a lifetime can be erased; through the bestowal of blessings and official rank, suffering in the Three Paths can be escaped. All who wear Daoist vestments rely on this protection.

Now, in accordance with the precious registers of the Supreme, Limitless Great Dao—catalogued in the jade books and golden cases of the Purple Palace of Primordial Origin, among the highest ranks for selecting immortals—and acting in accordance with the teachings expounded by Donghua, I have come before the altar to deliver the dead. I, the ritual officer (your servant), whose ritual name is __, in sincere fear and trembling, bow repeatedly and submit this petition:

I have received the petition of __, a sincere devotee of the Dao who resides in __, __ County, __ Prefecture, Sichuan Province, under the Great Han realm. They seek grace through refinement and deliverance, and ask that their ancestral kin be universally recommended, so that all may ascend together to the pure realm. The faithful sponsor of this filial fast, __, together with the members of their household, submitted a petition on this day, choosing the auspicious hour of __ on the __ day of __ as the opening. Relying on the Dao, they will establish at home an offering of the Supreme Yellow Register Great Fast of the Three Origins for Deliverance from Suffering, lasting __ days and nights, and concluding on __. They earnestly hope that the divine sovereigns will manifest their transformative power and grant their favor, so that the souls of the deceased formally recommended at this rite, __, and those recommended in memory, __, together with deceased relatives, friends, and all solitary spirits, may leave the realms of suffering and be reborn in a blessed land.

Having received this petition, our bureau has already carried out refinement and deliverance in accordance with the rites. We now make this pledge before the Three Realms, proclaim it in accordance with the canonical rules, and have completed __ recitations of the precious scriptures. We shall proceed to draw them up and deliver them in accordance with the rites.

Plain-Language Interpretation

All departed souls under the jurisdiction of the Central Origin Earth Prison—the underworld prison governed during the Central Origin season—who should receive rites of deliverance are to be raised and delivered according to the merit they have accumulated. We make this prayer:

Its institutions extend everywhere, and its Dharma wheel governs the Four Continents. It oversees the prisons and waterways of the underworld, and commands the Eight Extremities as they pay homage to the Origin.

The Dao crowns the heavens, and its grace reaches throughout the Three Realms. We respectfully record the following.

The True Talisman of Dragon Script for the Central Origin Earth Court—a talismanic decree used by the Central Origin underworld court—must now be issued and conveyed.

This talisman is hereby issued to this locality.

The Earth Court’s numinous altar, the Earth Bureau, and the August Lord of the Nine Earth Ramparts, who together oversee the divine offices:

The officers presiding over the prisons of the underworld in the Central Origin Earth Prison are hereby authorized to rescue and redeem all souls who have performed good deeds, and to release the deceased named for this purification rite ○ and the souls named in the supplementary offering ○. In accordance with the Jade Talisman, pardon them and bring them out of deep darkness. May the three evils be extinguished and their roots in the underworld severed; may they pass swiftly through the Five Gates and have their names entered among the Great Mystery, all in accordance with the laws and ordinances of the Mystery.

The directive is issued as stated above. The officials concerned are to be informed and are to comply with the commands of the Mystery and carry them out without delay. So ordered.

Issued in the year, month, and day of the Celestial Cycle: __

The official in charge of carrying out the ritual rites (minister): __

Received the decree and carried it out.

The Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, the Supreme Venerable Lord Taiyi, who Responds to Cries and Saves from Suffering: witness and guarantor.

The Convenient Affairs Bureau of the Supreme Ultimate: dispatch

(Lower Origin dispatch)

To this locality:

The assembled perfected ones who preside over the Water Court of the Numinous Spring and Deep Abyss:

The celestial official in charge of the records of life, death, and transgressions in the Lower Origin: respectfully reported—[same as the preceding text, up to:]

All departed souls under the jurisdiction of the Lower Origin Water Court who should receive rites of deliverance are to be raised and delivered according to the merits recorded for them. We make this prayer:

It governs all affairs of the myriad spirits of the Water Court, assigning demotions and promotions. It holds authority over the Ten Courts of the Shadow Capital, determining who rises and who falls.

Its compassionate grace is boundless, and its virtue creates without end.

The Dao crowns the heavens, and its grace reaches throughout the Three Realms.

We respectfully record the following.

The True Talisman of Dragon Script for the Lower Origin Water Court must now be issued and conveyed.

This talisman is hereby issued to this locality.

The assembled perfected ones who preside over the Water Court of the Numinous Spring and Deep Abyss, and oversee the divine offices:

The officers presiding over the prisons of the underworld in the Lower Origin Water Court are hereby authorized to rescue and redeem all souls who have performed good deeds, and to release the deceased named for this purification rite ○ and the souls named in the supplementary offering ○. In accordance with the Jade Talisman, pardon them and bring them out of deep darkness. May the three evils be extinguished and their roots in the underworld severed; may they pass swiftly through the Five Gates and have their names entered among the Great Mystery, all in accordance with the laws and ordinances of the Mystery.

This text is a dispatch document used to issue orders in Lingbao rites for delivering the dead. Following the format of imperial government documents, it sends talismanic decrees to the Central Origin Earth Prison and the Lower Origin Water Court, asking the underworld officials to pardon the deceased by means of the “Jade Talisman,” extinguish the three evils, guide them through the Five Gates, and raise them into the realm of the Mystery. The “○” marks places in the ritual text for names to be entered. “Respectfully reported—same as above, and so on” indicates that the preceding text in the Lower Origin section is the same as in the Central Origin section and has been abbreviated in the manuscript.

Writ of Mysterious Rites and Regulations

The contents of the petition are as stated above. The responsible officials under your jurisdiction must also receive this directive and carry out all matters in accordance with it.

In accordance with the Mysterious Rites and Regulations, you are ordered to carry this out without delay. This is the directive.

Issued on the　　day of the　　month, in the　　year of the Celestial Cycle

The official in charge of carrying out the rites (your servant):　　　Having received the decree, shall carry it out

The Venerable Celestial Worthy, Compassionate Father of the Eastern Palace, Taiyi Who Answers Prayers and Rescues from Suffering　　　　　　　　　Witness and certify

Pass and Warrant for the Upper Origin

Office of Expedient Administration of the Limitless Primordial Taiji (an administrative office proposed within the ritual methods of Lingbao purification rites):

Now, on behalf of the ritual sponsors　　　and others, who have established at home the supreme Three Origins Yellow Register Great Purification Rite for　　　days and nights, cultivated various merits, and prayed for grace and deliverance, this rite is offered for the principal soul　　　being recommended, as well as all accompanying wandering spirits and those now awaiting rebirth.

In accordance with the Mysterious Rites, this office has completed　　　recitations of scriptures, ritual prostrations, and repentance rites. We submit one sealed and securely fastened petition, respectfully presenting it to:

• The Purple Tenuity Palace of the Great Emperor of the Heavenly Official of the Upper Origin (the Heavenly Official who grants blessings, worshipped at the Upper Origin Festival)—one precious talisman is presented and reported above.
• The seat of the myriad spirits serving as officials in the divine realms—one jade petition is presented for notification and execution.
• The immortal officials of the famous mountains and blessed lands in this locality—one formal petition is presented before the sacred presence, specifically addressed.
• The presiding immortal officials of the grotto-heavens in this locality—one petition is submitted at their desk for public presentation.
• The gods and spirits of the shrines and temples in this locality—one petition is submitted.

We therefore issue this pass and request that the appointed messenger convey it and put it into effect. We await an immediate response and spiritual communion. This pass is hereby issued:

To the right　　　　　　　　　　　　Pass

The Merit-Bearing Officer of the Celestial Realm, appointed to receive this matter on the day of planting, is hereby requested to convey this pass to the appointed messenger for execution. Issued under this pass.

Dispatched on the　　day of the　　month, in the　　year of the Celestial Cycle

The Venerable Celestial Worthy, Compassionate Father, Taiyi Who Answers Prayers and Rescues from Suffering　　　　　　　　　Witness and certify

Pass and Warrant for the Middle Origin

Office of Expedient Administration of the Limitless Primordial Taiji (same format as above, through “respectfully presenting it to”), with the following recipients:

• The Clear Void Palace of the Great Emperor of the Terrestrial Official of the Middle Origin (the Terrestrial Official who pardons sins, worshipped at the Middle Origin Festival)—one cinnabar talisman is presented.
• The seat of the myriad spirits serving as officials in the celestial prisons and earthly hells—one jade petition is presented and sent directly there.

The remainder of the pass, including the messenger and certification, follows the same format as the Pass and Warrant for the Upper Origin.

Plain-Language Explanation of the Lingbao Document Format

Before the palace of the Imperial Lord of the Nine Earthly Strongholds in the Central Earth Bureau: submit one official document, presented together.

Before the presiding spirit official of the Earth Bureau at the ritual altar: deliver one petition, formally submitted.

Before the incense official and emissary who observes and examines the ritual altar: deliver.

The prescribed notices and invocations are to be made together—as stated below, through “before the master’s seat”—to seek witness and confirmation. This means bearing witness to the pledge; the rite is complete.

Lower Primordial Realm: Notice and Delivery

The Convenient Affairs Bureau of the Limitless Taiji of the Primordial Beginning—the Taiji bureau established by the Celestial Worthy of the Primordial Beginning and empowered to act at its discretion; the same meaning applies below—first submits this upward, in sequence.

Before the Water Official Great Emperor’s Palace of the Dark Yin in the Lower Primordial Realm: submit one authentic talisman. Then send it onward.

Before the lords of the Nine Hells, the Ten Directions, and the Three Realms: submit one jade tablet. Then deliver it directly.

Before the presiding lord of this locality’s numinous pool and deep grotto: submit one official document, presented together.

Before the assembled perfected beings of the water palaces in the numinous springs, pools, and grottoes: deliver one petition, formally submitted.

Before the true official who presides over the local district: deliver.

The prescribed notices and invocations are to be made together, as above through “before the master’s seat,” to seek witness and confirmation. The rite is complete.

Writing on the Front of the Petition Envelopes

Write on the envelopes: Upper Primordial Realm, Purple Tenuity Palace—submit; the next envelope: Middle Primordial Realm, Palace of Pure Emptiness—submit; the final envelope: Lower Primordial Realm, Palace of the Dark Yin—submit.

Three Talisman Documents

Upper Primordial Realm: Authentic White Tablet Talisman of the Divine Empyrean—report and notify the presiding officials and myriad spirits of the celestial realm.

Middle Primordial Realm: Vermilion Script of the Precious Proclamation in Golden Writing—report and notify the presiding officials and myriad spirits of the heavenly prisons and terrestrial hells.

Lower Primordial Realm: Precious Talisman for Deliverance from Death and Ascension to Perfection—report and notify the lords of the Nine Hells, the Ten Directions, and the Three Realms.

Sealing the Three Jade Tablets

Upper Primordial Realm: Jade Tablet of the Celestial Official’s Bestowal of Blessings—issue a proclamation to the lords of the famous mountains and grotto-heavens in this locality.

Middle Primordial Realm: Jade Tablet of the Earth Official’s Forgiveness of Sins—issue a proclamation to the Imperial Lord of the Nine Earthly Strongholds in the Central Earth Bureau of this locality.

Lower Primordial Realm: Jade Tablet of the Water Official’s Dispelling of Calamities—issue a proclamation to the presiding lord of this locality’s numinous pool and deep grotto.

Form and Construction of the Three Jade Tablets

The three tablets are made of catalpa wood, one chi and two cun long, one cun and six fen wide, and one fen thick. The proclamation is written in seal script. Each tablet is placed in a yellow pouch and joined with one golden dragon, thirteen golden buttons, and three jade discs. After the altar rites are complete and the items have been distributed, the tablets are delivered to their respective destinations.

Note: This document format belongs to the Lingbao tradition’s ritual documents for Zhaijiao (purification rites). It describes the procedures for submitting official documents, petitions, authentic talismans, and jade tablets to the Earth Bureau, Water Bureau, Purple Tenuity Palace, Palace of Pure Emptiness, and Palace of the Dark Yin during the Three Primordial Realms’ assemblies: the Upper Realm, where the Celestial Official bestows blessings; the Middle Realm, where the Earth Official forgives sins; and the Lower Realm, where the Water Official dispels calamities. The procedures include notifying the presiding officials of the local realm with three talisman documents and issuing proclamations with three jade tablets. Jade tablets serve as formal documents for addressing Heaven, Earth, and Water, and are commonly used in the ritual of distributing the altar offerings and delivering the tablets.

The following is a plain-language explanation of this section of the ritual documents in the Lingbao Wenjian, presented in the order of the original, with brief explanations of specialized terms where they first appear.

The Three Jade Emblems: Specifications for Ritual Designs

Design of the Celestial Jade Emblem (circular form)

A circular design, two cun and four fen wide and two fen thick, made in blue.

Design of the Terrestrial Jade Emblem (square form)

A square design, five cun wide and three fen thick, in white.

Design of the Water Jade Emblem (octagonal form)

An octagonal design, five cun wide and three fen thick, in green.

Three Types of “Memorial” (formats for submitted documents)

Shared opening (the same for the Upper, Middle, and Lower Origin memorials)

“Purely and reverently following the Dao, establishing offerings to aid the underworld, and carrying out filial acts of faith on behalf of the deceased”—the Daoist performs the rite in purity, lays out offerings to assist the underworld, and the filial children and faithful believers conduct rites to commend the deceased’s souls.

The main text states, in essence: On this day, we sincerely remember the souls of the deceased, including a certain person and others. Relying on the Great Dao, we have solemnly established a single ritual altar for the “Great Fast of the Yellow Register of the Most High’s Three Origins.” We have now completed the recitation of the treasured scriptures, and record the names in a memorial to be submitted and forwarded through the proper levels.

Upper Origin memorial adds:

Presented before the offices of all deities of the local shrines and temples.

At the end: “Fearing that the words presented may be ordinary and unclear, and that their meaning may not reach above, I submit this written memorial specifically to the office of the Immortal Official on Duty who Guides the Petition Upward. I humbly beg that, in your benevolence, you hear and respond clearly, and specially grant deliverance and elevation. With utmost respect, I submit this memorial.”

“Under the Heavenly Cycle, year _, month _, day ___, submitted.”

Middle Origin memorial

(The offerings and acts of commemoration are as above.)

It is also presented before the Spirit Altar’s Inspecting Incense Official and Envoy, and the Awe-Inspiring Spirits of the Three Caverns (Dongzhen, Dongxuan, Dongshen). The remainder is the same as in the Upper Origin memorial, from “Fearing that the words presented…” to “I submit this memorial.”

“Under the Heavenly Cycle, year _, month _, day ___, submitted.”

Lower Origin memorial

(The offerings and acts of commemoration are as above.)

It is also presented before the local presiding officials, the district and village administrators, and all the righteous deities of the mountains, rivers, lakes, and marshes. The remainder is the same as above.

“Year _, month _, day ___, submitted.”

Upper Origin Petition (a formal petition presented to the upper realms)

I, your servant, [personal name] (ordination name), am registered in the jade registers, scripture repositories, and precious talisman registers of the Most High, Infinite Great Dao; I am among the selected immortals of the highest rank in the Purple Palace of Primordial Unity; I uphold the teachings expounded by the Eastern Florescence; and I conduct rites of deliverance for the dead at the altar. With profound fear and reverence, I bow my head to the ground and offer one hundred bows as I address you above.

I respectfully state that this matter concerns “repaying our origins and honoring the fast, earnestly seeking grace and the opening of deliverance, so as to fulfill the rites performed in memory of the deceased.”

Now, according to the report from a certain place of residence in a certain county, prefecture, circuit, and province of the Great Han realm: offerings have been established in reverence of the Dao, and filial acts of faith have been performed on behalf of the deceased (here the deceased and the ritual proceedings are described). The recitation of the treasured scriptures has been completed, and the names are recorded for memorial and submission above (the divine titles are listed as in the Upper Origin memorial).

I, [name], fear that the petition may not be precise enough for its meaning to reach above. I humbly beg for compassionate attention and the granting of deliverance. I cannot express the depth of my earnest prayers.

Explanation: Memorials are generally presented to local divine offices, Immortal Officials who guide petitions upward, and similar authorities. The petition uses a higher formal register, often identifying the petitioner’s register rank and the teachings of the Eastern Florescence, and stating the purpose of the Great Fast for deliverance of the dead. The Celestial, Terrestrial, and Water Jade Emblems are designs on the ritual altar symbolizing Heaven, Earth, and Water. Their dimensions and colors are fixed in the text so the designs can be made according to specification.

This is a Daoist Zhaijiao (purification ritual) document for the salvation of departed souls. The filial son (name given) leads his entire family in reverent devotion, burning incense and lighting candles to beseech divine grace as they conduct the refining and salvation ritual for their deceased loved one.

The departed was born at a specific hour on a given day in the Xinhai year (Chinese zodiac cycle), originally from a specified village in a named county and province. Having lived several decades, they passed away at a recorded hour on a particular date at home. The filial son, mindful of parental nurturing as vast as mountains and deep as seas—a debt impossible to repay—now grieves profoundly as the loved one's spirit wanders unanchored. Thus, an auspicious date was chosen to establish a sacred altar at home for the peerless "Three Primes Yellow Register Grand Rite" (the highest form of Daoist salvation ritual), conducted over multiple days and nights to deliver not only the deceased but also ancestral relatives and friends.

The ritual includes: presenting memorials to the celestial court, chanting scriptures and confessing transgressions, administering precepts, and making offerings to the underworld. The Daoist priest (referring to himself as "this humble servant") modestly claims limited ability but performs the ceremony with sincere devotion, praying for celestial assistance to elevate the departed souls and protect the living. The complete ceremony involves 360 ritual offerings in gratitude for heavenly benevolence.

(Note: The "Yellow Register Grand Rite" represents Daoism's most solemn salvation ritual; "refining salvation" refers to purifying the souls' karmic burdens for transcendence; "ritual tokens" denote the ceremonial objects and offerings required.)

The following is a plain language explanation of this passage from the Lingbao Documents and Forms, covering petitions to the authorities and memorials used in the Upper and Middle Primordial periods, together with their purification rites. It follows the order of the original and briefly explains specialized terms at their first appearance.

Petition to the Upper Primordial Period (formal petition)

“We respectfully follow the teachings and carry out their instructions” means conducting affairs carefully in accordance with the ritual teachings.

“Today, the recitation of the precious scripture has been completed three times” means that the scripture has been recited three times today.

“We respectfully submit this petition in the proper court-ritual form” means that this is a formal report to the celestial officials.

“We fear that we may have intruded upon the hearing of the exalted and enlightened” expresses concern about disturbing or offending the honored recipient.

“We must therefore record the matter in full and report it respectfully” means that it must be set down accurately and presented before the honored authority.

Formal petition submitted

Before the August Purple Tenuity Great Emperor, the Celestial Official who bestows blessings through the Nine Qi of the Upper Primordial Period

“We humbly hope for your true compassion” is a plea for mercy.

“May you grant the request of your servant” asks for the petition to be approved.

“May you specially send an immortal retinue to bear witness to the sincerity of this Zhaijiao purification ritual” asks that a celestial procession be sent to attest to the ritual’s sincerity.

“So that blessings may reach both the visible and unseen worlds, and grace extend throughout the universe” asks for blessings to reach every realm.

“We further beg you to present this petition at the Gate of Heaven” asks that it be conveyed to the celestial court.

“Issue instructions to the Three Primordial periods, the Nine Palaces, the Twenty-Seven Offices, and the One Hundred and Twenty Bureaus” asks that notice be sent to the Three Primordial periods—Upper, Middle, and Lower—as well as the Nine Palaces, Twenty-Seven Offices, One Hundred and Twenty Bureaus, and other authorities.

“To all offices responsible for the matter” refers to every authority with jurisdiction or duties concerning it.

“Let them act in accordance with the talismanic command” directs them to follow the Fulu mandate.

“Deliver and recommend the souls of the deceased and all other departed spirits” asks that the deceased named in this ritual, along with other spirits, be rescued and guided onward.

“Remove their offenses and grievances” asks that their sins be erased and their resentments resolved.

“Release them from confinement and accumulated burdens” asks that they be freed from detention and the effects of past retribution.

“Let them leave the barriers of the underworld” asks that they escape the gates of the netherworld.

“Let them ascend to a blessed realm” asks that they rise to a good destination.

“May all lands rejoice, and may living creatures and plants alike find peace” expresses the wish that all under heaven, including people, animals, and plants, enjoy tranquility.

“I have presumed to approach the majesty of the Perfected. My humble feelings are too urgent to express; I await punishment, and respectfully submit this petition with a second bow” is a formal expression of humility and earnest supplication.

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

Another petition to the Upper Primordial Period (same format)

The format is the same as above. The passage beginning “announce the conclusion of the rite, present the memorial, and proclaim the talismanic command” refers to the end of the purification period, the formal presentation of the memorial, and the promulgation of the talismanic command.

“We respectfully pray for grace and ask that those sunk in the netherworld be universally recommended for salvation” asks for blessings and deliverance for the dead.

“This altar carefully follows the ritual regulations” means that the altar proceeds in accordance with the prescribed liturgy.

“Before the presiding immortal officials of the local Grotto-Heaven” refers to the place before the principal authorities of the local Grotto-Heaven.

“We announce and submit the Golden Talisman and Jade Document” refers to presenting a Golden Talisman and a Jade Document, a type of formal petition.

“Deliver the spirit of the deceased (name), who is to be recommended in this ritual” asks that the soul of the deceased person named for this ritual be rescued and guided onward.

“And those solitary and obscure spirits who are included as secondary recipients” includes other lonely and wandering spirits.

“After the offenses recorded in the registers of life and death have been erased” refers to removing the entries of guilt from the registers of life and death.

“In addition to sending a swift memorial to the Supreme Emperor, we must also submit a full petition” means that a formal petition is still required alongside the swift report to the Supreme Emperor.

We respectfully submit this petition

Before the August Purple Tenuity Great Emperor, the Celestial Official who bestows blessings through the Nine Qi of the Upper Primordial Period

“We humbly hope that your sacred compassion will grant approval” asks the recipient to approve the request mercifully.

“May you specially issue a sacred decree” asks for an official decree.

“Issue instructions to the offices of the Upper Primordial period and to all sacred beings in famous mountains and Grotto-Heavens” asks that all those authorities be notified.

“Let them follow the command of the Jade Document” directs them to act in accordance with its decree.

“Rescue the deceased spirits present at the altar who are to be recommended” asks that the spirits named in the ritual be delivered.

“Resolve their enmities, increase their good fruits, record their merit, and raise them through deliverance, so that each may ascend according to their rank” asks that their grievances be settled, their good karma increased, their merit recorded, and that they ascend to a higher state according to their standing.

“May you embody the compassion of the Great Dao and respond to the earnest prayers of ordinary people” asks the recipient to show the Dao’s compassion and answer the supplicants’ plea.

“I have presumed to approach your sacred majesty. Overcome with humble fear, I respectfully submit this petition” expresses deference and apprehension.

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

Petition to the Middle Primordial Period

“Same format as above,” and so on: The petition follows the same format as the one for the Upper Primordial period, with similar wording. The Celestial Official addressed is the presiding official of the Middle Primordial period; the original does not repeat the details, which are inferred from the instruction to follow the previous format.

Explanation

The passage comes from the Great Yellow Register Retreat of the Lingbao tradition. It contains formal petitions and memorials addressed to the August Purple Tenuity Great Emperor, Celestial Official who bestows blessings in the Upper Primordial period, with a corresponding form for the Middle Primordial period. Its central requests are to recite the scripture three times, follow the talismanic commands, deliver and recommend the deceased, erase offenses and resolve grievances, free them from the barriers of the underworld, and guide them upward according to their rank. It also asks that the Three Primordial periods, Nine Palaces, and various offices be notified and carry out the instructions.

The original carving of one word in “confinement and accumulated burdens” is unclear. The intended phrase is generally understood to mean being held by the netherworld and still burdened by unresolved retribution.

Following Daoist ritual protocols, we respectfully submit this petition to the local earth deity (Lingguan Zhenxin) at our sacred altar. Here we present golden talismans and jade registers, seeking deliverance for the soul of the deceased (name) and all other wandering spirits included in this zhaijiao (purification ritual). The karmic records of these departed souls, having already been swiftly reported to the Celestial Emperor, are now being presented in detail to the Great Emperor of Zhongyuan Earth Official (Qingxu Dadi, the Earth Official of Seven Qi Who Grants Absolution).

We humbly beseech the Earth Official's compassionate approval to issue a sacred decree, commanding all underworld deities (including the Ninefold Earth Sovereigns) to rescue these souls from hell realms according to the jade register's instructions. May their three poisonous roots (greed, hatred, and delusion) be eradicated, their merits recorded for celestial rebirth, and may they receive new lives corresponding to their accumulated virtue. This embodies both the Dao's boundless compassion and responds to mortal supplications. Though we presume to disturb celestial majesty, we await the sacred command with reverent trepidation.

(Closing notation) Celestial Calendar [Year/Month/Day]

The Xiayuan petition follows the same format, substituting the Zhongyuan Earth Official with the Xiayuan Water Official (Dongyin Dadi, the Water Official of Five Qi Who Dispels Calamities), and replacing the Ninefold Earth Sovereigns with deities of the Dongyuan Water Palace. Here we entreat the Water Official to remove all misfortunes from the departed souls, cease underworld punishments, and similarly record merits for their ascension.

Final notation: This petition is respectfully submitted by [name], disciple of the [lineage], for the deliverance of departed souls. According to... [specific petition details omitted]

Classic: Lingbao Wenjian

Scripture (modern interpretation):

A person devoted to the Dao and submitting with sincerity, residing in a certain place in Sichuan Province of the Republic of China, offers this petition on behalf of the deceased so-and-so. The petitioner performs a purification ritual to seek grace, carries out rites to refine and deliver the deceased, and wishes that the deceased’s clan relatives may together ascend to a pure realm, thereby continuing the practice of filial remembrance. The petitioner, together with the rest of the filial family, now presents this statement to the “Primordial Origin” (the beginning of Heaven and Earth, the source of the Dao) on this day:

The Great Dao has no name or form, yet silently sets all things in motion and brings forth the virtue of their generation. Since utmost sincerity can reach and move the divine, we respectfully dare to request the grace of deliverance for the deceased. We humbly lay out our heartfelt sincerity and look upward, begging for your wondrous and mysterious attention. So-and-so, the filial child (and others), submits this petition to recommend the soul of the deceased so-and-so. The deceased was born in the year, month, day, and hour of such-and-such, and grew up in such-and-such place; lived for a certain number of years; and reached the end of life in the year, month, day, and hour of such-and-such. We grieve that the deceased has left the world of the living and remained for a long time in the underworld. Longing for the departed one’s voice and appearance, we beg that the deceased be delivered in accordance with the rites. We have therefore prepared the prescribed ritual offerings and program, and selected a day this month that falls near the anniversary of the death of so-and-so. Relying on the Dao, we ask Daoist priests to conduct at the family home the Lingbao Ten-Cycle Great Purification Rite for Delivering People, without interruption day or night, until it is completed on the appointed day. We perform these meritorious rites and pray for grace to open the way of deliverance for the deceased so-and-so, and to deliver the deceased’s clan relatives as well, so that all these departed souls may attain a place of rebirth.

We have now recited the precious scripture for one complete cycle, and respectfully prepared ritual money and cloud-borne conveyances, among other offerings. We submit this letter of petition and bow low before the sacred presence and the Dao. We humbly beg the holy ones, in their compassion, to look down and take heed of the petitioner’s intent, and earnestly pray for their abundant kindness and grace: forgive the departed soul’s past transgressions, spread benevolence widely, pardon the deceased spirit’s sins committed in life, draw it forth from the underworld, and deliver it to the Southern Palace. Respectfully submitted.

(Leave three lines for the date.) Petition title: Petition for the Purification Rite of Generating Spirit.

I, a servant of the Jade Register and Scripture Treasury of the Supreme Ultimate Great Dao, selected among the highest ranks of the Immortals of the Purple Palace of Primordial Origin and the Precious Registers, uphold the teachings transmitted by Donghua and preside over the altar in conducting rites for delivering the deceased. I, (Daoist ritual name), am sincerely fearful and tremble with reverence; I bow my head and make a hundred prostrations as I respectfully submit:

I, the petitioner, submit this petition concerning the rite for delivering the soul. It is based on the circumstances of so-and-so, a person devoted to the Dao and residing in a certain place in Sichuan Province of the Republic of China … (the reasons stated above).

Note for reading the ritual text:

This text is a zhai petition, a document addressed to the Celestial Worthies in the Lingbao ritual tradition. It is used to conduct a “Ten-Cycle Great Purification Rite for Delivering People” at home on the anniversary of a deceased person’s death. “Southern Palace” in Daoist ritual commonly refers to the blessed place or place of rebirth hoped for after the deceased is delivered. “Ritual money and cloud-borne conveyances” refer to rites for burning spirit money and sending off the soul’s conveyance. “Departed spirits” refers to deceased ancestors and clan relatives. Several dates and names are left blank in the original and remain unfilled in accordance with the manuscript.

The Purpose of Practicing and Arranging a Salvation Rite with Sincere Filial Devotion

The entire family of filial descendants respectfully bows and submits its intention to establish a purification rite on this day:

On behalf of our late parents:

Their birthdays in the human world were in a certain year, month, day, and hour. They were born and raised in this locality. They lived to the age of a certain number of years, and their allotted span had come to an end. In a certain year, month, day, and hour, they passed away at a residence in a certain place.

We grieve deeply that the deceased have left the human world and long remained in the shadowy realm. Their faces and voices remain unforgettable, so we earnestly request a ritual to deliver them beyond suffering. For this purpose, we have prepared the liturgy and selected a day this month, coinciding with the anniversary of the deceased’s death. We respectfully invite Daoist priests to establish an altar at our home and conduct an offering of the Great Purification Rite of the Lingbao of the Cavern of Mystery for Generating Life in the Nine Heavens, a large Daoist Zhaijiao rite performed for the deceased’s “generation of life in the Nine Heavens.” The rite will continue day and night until it is brought to completion on a certain day.

We will also perform various meritorious deeds and pray for divine protection, so that the true souls of the deceased may be delivered beyond suffering and that both the realms of the living and the dead may receive aid. May the living also find peace.

We have now completed one full cycle of reciting the precious scriptures. With gold and money, cloud chariots, and other ritual offerings—paper money and ceremonial items burned or presented during a Zhaijiao rite—we respectfully submit this petition as an offering before the Great Deity Sima, the Great Flying Heaven Sage, the King of the Boundless, and the immortals and divine officials of our locality.

We humbly beg all these benevolent beings to grant their gracious approval, descend to the ritual altar, and bear witness to this purification rite. May the souls of the deceased reach the immortal realm beyond the shore of suffering; may those who remain enjoy boundless blessings; may the Dao’s transforming influence be made manifest above and bring comfort to human hearts below. We are deeply grateful and respectfully submit this petition.

Submitted in a certain year, month, and day of the Celestial Cycle.

This text is a formal petition used in Lingbao Zhaijiao rites to report to the deities. Its format is fixed: it first recounts the deceased’s life and death, then names the purification rite to be performed—the Great Purification Rite for Generating Life in the Nine Heavens—along with the number of scripture recitations and the offerings. Finally, it respectfully invites the Great Deity Sima and the other divine beings to descend to the altar and bear witness, seeking deliverance for the deceased and blessings for the living. The blank spaces for dates, names, and locality should be filled in according to the actual circumstances.