In the Taiping Dao (太平道, “Way of Great Peace”) tradition, the Yellow Court Classic is not merely a text of internal alchemy but a sacred guide to harmonizing the body, mind, and cosmos, a vision deeply rooted in the Huang-Lao (黄老道) tradition of Daoist thought. For the followers of Taiping Dao, founded by the sage Zhang Jue (张角), the Huangting Jing embodies the eternal wisdom of the Yellow Emperor (黄帝, Huangdi) and the cosmic principles of Laozi (老子), offering a pathway to inner peace, spiritual immortality, and the restoration of celestial order.
For Taiping Dao practitioners, the Huangting Jing was more than a meditative scripture; it was a living practice that integrated visualization, breathwork, and ritual to purify the body and mind. The color yellow, symbolizing the Earth element and the centrality of the spleen, represented the stability and nourishment essential for spiritual cultivation. Just as the Yellow Emperor is thought to have achieved immortality through his mastery of Daoist arts, Taiping Dao’s followers sought to cultivate their inner Yellow Court, refining their essence (jing), energy (qi), and spirit (shen) to attain harmony with the Dao (道, the Way).
The Yellow Turban (黄巾, Huangjin), often associated with rebellion, takes on a deeper, symbolic meaning within Taiping Dao’s spiritual context. Far from being a mere emblem of defiance, the Yellow Turban serves as a sacred marker of the Earth’s yellow, a symbol of unity, healing, and the practitioner’s connection to the central harmony of the cosmos. Wearing the Yellow Turban was an affirmation of one’s commitment to the Tao, a visual and spiritual declaration of alignment with the Earth element’s nurturing and stabilizing energy. It signified the wearer’s role as a guardian of balance, both within themselves and in the world.
In this light, the Yellow Court Classic and the Yellow Turban together embody Taiping Dao’s holistic vision: a world where meditation, healing, and moral cultivation converge to create a peaceful and balanced existence. The text’s teachings on the Yellow Court resonate with the Earth’s yellow, offering a path to immortality not through rebellion, but through the cultivation of inner harmony and the embrace of the Tao’s natural order.
Inner Scripture (内景经, Nèi Jīng Jīng)
Chapter 1: Upper Clarity (上清章第一)
Original:
上清紫霞虚皇前，太上大道玉晨君，闲居蕊珠作七言，散化五形变万神。
是为黄庭曰内篇，琴心三叠舞胎仙，九气映明出霄间，神盖童子生紫烟。
是曰玉书可精研，咏之万过升三天，千灾以消百病痊，不惮虎狼之凶残，
亦以却老年永延。
Translation:
Before the Violet Mist Celestial Sovereign of Upper Clarity, The Jade Dawn Lord of the Great Dao composes seven-word verses in leisure at the Coral Pearl Palace. Dissolving the five forms, transforming the myriad spirits, This is the Yellow Court, the Inner Scripture. With a threefold melody of the zither-heart, the Fetal Immortal dances, As nine qi radiate brightly beyond the heavens, And the Divine Canopy Boy exhales purple mist. This is the Jade Book, study it with precision. Recite it ten thousand times to ascend to the Three Heavens, Dispelling a thousand calamities and curing all ailments, Unafraid of tigers and wolves, their ferocity rendered harmless.It also reverses aging, prolonging life eternally.
Context:
Upper Clarity (上清, Shàngqīng): A highest Daoist heaven, associated with the Most High (太上, Tàishàng) and the Jade Dawn Lord (玉晨君, Yùchén Jūn).
Yellow Court (黄庭, Huángtíng): Symbolizes the spleen (central organ in Daoist inner alchemy) or the mind’s purity.
Three Heavens (三天, Sāntiān): Refers to the Three Pure Ones (三清, Sānqīng), the highest Daoist deities.
Fetal Immortal (胎仙, Tāi Xiān): A state of embryonic breath (taixi), a key Daoist practice for longevity.
Chapter 2: The Upper (上有章第二)
Original:
上有魂灵下关元，左为少阳右太阴，后有密户前生门。出日入月呼吸存，
元气所合列宿分，紫烟上下三素云，灌溉五华植灵根，七液洞流冲庐间。
迥紫抱黄入丹田，幽室内明照阳门。
Translation:
Above, the spirit-soul (魂灵, Húnlíng); below, the Gate of Origin (关元, Guānyuán). To the left: Lesser Yang (少阳, Shàoyáng); to the right: Greater Yin (太阴, Tàiyīn). Behind: the Secret Door (密户, Mìhù); in front: the Gate of Life (生门, Shēngmén). Exhale the sun, inhale the moon, retaining the breath within. Where primordial qi (元气, Yuánqì) converges with the stellar mansions (列宿, Lièxiù), Purple mist rises and falls, three pure clouds (三素云, Sānsù Yún), Nourishing the Five Blossoms (五华, Wǔhuá) and planting the Spirit Root (灵根, Línggēn). The Seven Liquids (七液, Qī Yè) flow through the Central Chamber (冲庐, Chōnglú). Distant purple embraces yellow, entering the Cinnabar Field (丹田, Dàntián), While the Hidden Chamber (幽室, Yōushì) glows, illuminating the Yang Gate (阳门, Yángmén).
Context:
Gate of Origin (关元, Guānyuán): A qi center below the navel, crucial in neidan (内丹, inner alchemy).
Lesser Yang / Greater Yin: Refer to meridian pathways in the body, linked to the spleen and liver.
Exhale the sun, inhale the moon: A breathing technique to harmonize yin and yang energies.
Cinnabar Field (丹田, Dàntián): The lower dantian (below the navel), where qi is cultivated.
Chapter 3: The Mouth (口为章第三)
Original:
口为玉池太和宫，漱咽灵液灾不干，体生光华气香兰，却灭百邪玉炼颜。
审能修之登广寒，昼夜不寐乃成真，雷鸣电激神泯泯。
Translation:
The mouth is the Jade Pool Palace of Great Harmony (玉池太和宫, Yùchí Tàihé Gōng). Swirl and swallow the spiritual liquid (灵液, Língyè), and disasters cannot touch you. The body emits radiant light, its qi fragrant as orchids, Dispelling all evil, refining the face to jade-like purity. If you diligently cultivate this, you may ascend to the Broad Cold Heaven (广寒, Guǎnghán). Sleepless day and night, you shall become a True Immortal (真人, Zhēnrén), As thunder roars and lightning flashes, the spirits merge in unity.
Context:
- Jade Pool (玉池, Yùchí): The mouth, where saliva (灵液, Língyè) is alchemically transformed.
- Broad Cold Heaven (广寒, Guǎnghán): The moon palace, symbolizing yin purity.
- True Immortal (真人, Zhēnrén): A perfected being in Daoism.
Chapter 4: The Yellow Court (黄庭章第四)
Original:
黄庭内人服锦衣，紫华飞裙云气罗，丹青绿条翠灵柯，七蕤玉龠闭两扉，
重扇金阙密枢机，玄泉幽阙高崔巍，三田之中精气微，娇女窈窕翳霄晖，
重堂焕焕明八威，天庭地关列釜斤，灵台盘固永不衰。
Translation:
Within the Yellow Court, a figure in brocade robes, With purple radiance skirts and cloud-like qi, Vermilion and green vines entwine the jade flutes, Seven-petaled flowers seal the double gates. Layered fans guard the Golden Gate’s secret mechanism,While the Mysterious Spring (玄泉, Xuánquán) and Hidden Palace (幽阙, Yōuquè) tower majestically. In the Three Fields (三田, Sāntián), the essence and qi are subtle. A graceful maiden stands veiled in celestial light, The Resplendent Hall (重堂, Chóngtáng) shines with the Eight Powers (八威, Bāwēi). The Heavenly Court (天庭, Tiāntíng) and Earthly Gate (地关, Dìguān) align with cauldron and axe (釜斤, Fǔjīn). The Spirit Platform (灵台, Língtái) is firm, eternally unaging.
Context:
- Three Fields (三田, Sāntián): The upper (brain), middle (heart), and lower (guts/dantian) elixir fields.
- Eight Powers (八威, Bāwēi): Symbolic talismans or energies that protect the body.
- Spirit Platform (灵台, Língtái): The heart-mind, the seat of consciousness.
Chapter 5: The Central Pool (中池章第五)
Original:
中池内神服赤珠，丹锦云袍带虎符，横津三寸灵所居，隐芝翳郁自相扶。
Translation:
Within the Central Pool (中池, Zhōngchí), a divine being wears red pearls, With cinnabar-brocade robes and a tiger talisman belt. The Three-Inch Crossing (横津, Héngjīn) is where the spirit resides, And hidden mushrooms (隐芝, Yǐnzhī) thrive in lush abundance, supporting each other.
Context:
- Central Pool (中池, Zhōngchí): The stomach/spleen area, associated with digestion and qi transformation.
- Tiger Talisman (虎符, Hǔfú): A symbol of authority and protection in Daoist ritual.
- Three-Inch Crossing (横津, Héngjīn): A qi point near the solar plexus.
Chapter 6: The Heavenly Center (天中章第六)
Original:
天中之岳精谨修，云宅既清玉帝游，通利道路无终休，眉号华盖覆明珠，
九幽日月洞空无，宅中有真常衣丹。审能见之无疾患，赤珠灵裙华茜粲，
舌下膺玄生死岸，出青入玄二气焕，子若遇之升天汉。
Translation:
The Heavenly Center’s peak, diligently cultivate its essence, The Cloud Dwelling is pure, where the Jade Emperor wanders.
Unblock the pathways, endless and unceasing, The eyebrows are called the Canopy of Flowers (华盖, Huágài), covering the luminous pearl. The Nine Dark Depths (九幽, Jiǔyōu), sun and moon, caverns of emptiness, Within this dwelling, a True Being always wears cinnabar robes. If you can perceive this, you will be free from illness and suffering. With red pearls and spiritual skirts, radiant and dazzling, Beneath the tongue, the Mysterious Chest (膺玄, Yīngxuán) is the shore of life and death. Exhaling green, inhaling the mysterious, two qi radiate brilliantly. If you encounter this, you will ascend to the Heavenly River (天汉, Tiānhàn).
Context:
- Heavenly Center (天中, Tiānzhōng): The head or upper dantian (brain), a center of spiritual energy.
- Jade Emperor (玉帝, Yùdì): The supreme Daoist deity, symbolizing cosmic authority.
- Canopy of Flowers (华盖, Huágài): The eyebrows, seen as a protective canopy over the eyes.
- Nine Dark Depths (九幽, Jiǔyōu): The deepest layers of the subconscious or underworld, often linked to transformative alchemy.
- Heavenly River (天汉, Tiānhàn): The Milky Way, symbolizing cosmic ascent.
Chapter 7: The Ultimate Dao (至道章第七)
Original:
至道不烦诀存真，泥丸百节皆有神。发神苍华字太元，脑神精根字泥丸，
眼神明上字英玄，鼻神玉垄字灵坚，耳神空闲字幽田，舌神通命字正伦，
齿神峨峰字罗千。一面之神宗泥丸，泥丸九真皆有房，方圆一寸处此中，
内服紫衣飞罗裳，但思一部寿无穷，非各别住俱脑中，列位次坐向外方，
所存在心自相当。
Translation:
The Ultimate Dao is not troublesome, the secret is to preserve the true.
The Mud Pill (泥丸, Níwán) and all joints have their spirits.
The Hair Spirit (发神, Fàshén) is named Canghua (苍华), titled Taiyuan (太元).
The Brain Spirit (脑神, Nǎoshén) is the Essence Root (精根, Jīnggēn), titled Níwán (泥丸).
The Eye Spirit (眼神, Yǎnshén) is Mingshang (明上), titled Yingxuan (英玄).
The Nose Spirit (鼻神, Bíshén) is Yulong (玉垄), titled Lingjian (灵坚).
The Ear Spirit (耳神, Ěrshén) is Kongxian (空闲), titled Youatian (幽田).
The Tongue Spirit (舌神, Shéshén) is Tongming (通命), titled Zhenglun (正伦).
The Teeth Spirit (齿神, Chǐshén) is Efeng (峨峰), titled Luoqian (罗千).
The spirit of the entire face is governed by the Mud Pill (泥丸, Níwán). The Mud Pill’s Nine True Beings (九真, Jiǔzhēn) each have their chambers. In a square inch (方圆一寸, Fāngyuán Yīcùn) within this center, They wear purple robes and fly in silken skirts. Meditate on this one part, and longevity will be boundless. They do not dwell separately, all reside in the brain, Arranged in order, facing outward, Their existence corresponds to the heart’s awareness.
Context:
- Mud Pill (泥丸, Níwán): The brain or upper dantian, a center of spiritual energy in Daoist alchemy.
- Nine True Beings (九真, Jiǔzhēn): Deities or energies residing in the brain, each governing a faculty or sense.
- Square Inch (方圆一寸, Fāngyuán Yīcùn): The mind or heart, where spiritual refinement occurs.
Chapter 8: The Heart Spirit (心神章第八)
Original:
心神丹元字守灵，肺神皓华字虚成，肝神龙烟字台明，翳郁导烟主浊清，
肾神玄冥字育婴，脾神常在字魂停，胆神龙曜字威明。
六腑五脏神体精，皆在心内运天经，昼夜存之自长生。
Translation:
The Heart Spirit (心神, Xīnshén) is Danyuan (丹元), titled Shouling (守灵).
The Lung Spirit (肺神, Fèishén) is Haohua (皓华), titled Xucheng (虚成).
The Liver Spirit (肝神, Gānshén) is Longyan (龙烟), titled Taiming (台明).
Yiyu (翳郁) guides the smoke, governing the turbid and clear.
The Kidney Spirit (肾神, Shènshén) is Xuanming (玄冥), titled Yuying (育婴).
The Spleen Spirit (脾神, Píshén) is Changzai (常在), titled Hunting (魂停).
The Gallbladder Spirit (胆神, Dǎnshén) is Longyao (龙曜), titled Weiming (威明).
The spirits of the six fu and five organs are refined and essence-like, All reside within the heart, circulating the Heavenly Classic (天经, Tiānjīng). Day and night, retain them, and you will naturally live long.
Context:
- Six Fu (六腑, Liùfǔ): The Yang organs (gallbladder, stomach, large intestine, small intestine, bladder, triple burner).
- Five Organs (五脏, Wǔzàng): The Yin organs (heart, liver, spleen, lungs, kidneys).
- Heavenly Classic (天经, Tiānjīng): A metaphor for the natural order of the cosmos, which the heart aligns with through meditation.
Chapter 9: The Lung Section (肺部间第九)
Original:
肺部之官似华盖，下有童子坐玉阙，七元之子主调气，外应中岳鼻脐位，
素锦衣裳黄云带。喘息呼吸体不快，急存白元和六气，神仙久视无灾害，用之不已形不滞。
Translation:
The Lung’s office resembles a Canopy of Flowers (华盖, Huágài), Below, a divine boy sits in a Jade Palace (玉阙, Yùquè).
The Seven Primordial Children (七元之子, Qī Yuán Zhī Zǐ) govern the regulation of qi, Externally, they correspond to the Central Peak (中岳, Zhōngyuè), the nose and navel positions. They wear white brocade robes with yellow cloud sashes. If breathing is labored and the body unwell, Quickly retain the White Origin (白元, Báiyuán) and harmonize the six qi. Immortal beings with eternal vision suffer no calamities, Practice this ceaselessly, and your form will never stagnate.
Context:
- Canopy of Flowers (华盖, Huágài): The lungs, seen as a protective canopy over the heart.
- Central Peak (中岳, Zhōngyuè): The nose and navel, key points for qi circulation.
- White Origin (白元, Báiyuán): A spiritual energy associated with purity and healing.
- Six Qi (六气, Liùqì): The six climatic qi (wind, cold, summer heat, dampness, dryness, fire) or internal qi harmonization.
Outer Scripture (外景经, Wài Jīng Jīng)
Upper Part (上部经第一)
Original:
老君闲居作七言，解说身形及诸神，上有黄庭下关元，后有幽阙前命门，呼吸庐间入丹田，玉池清水灌灵根，
审能修之可长存，黄庭中人衣朱衣，关元茂龠阖两靡，幽阙侠之高巍巍，丹田之中精气微，玉池清水上生肥，
灵根坚固老不衰，中池有士服赤衣，横下三寸神所居，中外相距重闭之，神庐之中当修治，玄府气管受精府，
急固子精以自持，宅中有士常衣绎，子能见之可不病，横立长尺约其上，子能守之或无惹，呼吸庐间以自偿，
子保完坚身受庆，方寸之中谨盖藏，精神还归老复壮，心结幽厥流下竞，养子玉树令可壮，至道不烦无旁午，
灵台通天临中野，方寸之中间关下，玉房之中神门户，既是公子教我者，明堂四达法海源，真人子丹当吾前，
三关之中精气深，子欲不死修昆仑，绎官重楼十二环，琼室之中五色集，赤神之子中池立，下有长城玄谷邑，
长生要慎房中急，弃捐淫欲专子精，寸田尺宅可治生，系子长留心安宁，推志游神三奇灵，行间无事心太平，
常存玉房神明达，时思太仓不饥渴，役使六丁玉女渴，闭子精门可长活，正室堂前神所舍，洗心自治无败污，
历观五脏视节度，六府修治洁如素，虚无自然道之固，物有自然道不烦，垂拱无为身体安，虚无之居在帏间，
寂寞郭然口不言，修和独立真人官，恬淡无欲游德园，清净香洁玉女前，修德明达神之门。
Translation: Lord Lao in leisure composed seven-word verses,Explaining the body’s form and its spirits:
Above is the Yellow Court, below the Gate of Origin, Behind is the Dark Palace, in front the Gate of Life. Breathing between the hut, enter the Cinnabar Field,Where the Jade Pool’s clear water nourishes the Spirit Root. If you cultivate this well, you may live forever.The Yellow Court’s people wear vermilion robes, The Gate of Origin’s lush flutes seal the double doors. The Dark Palace stands tall and lofty, Within the Cinnabar Field, essence and qi are subtle, The Jade Pool’s water flows upward, enriching the body. With firm Spirit Roots, aging never comes.
In the Central Pool, a divine warrior wears red robes,Three inches below, where the spirit resides, The inner and outer are separated by double seals. Within the Spirit Hut, you must cultivate and refine, The Mysterious Palace’s qi channels receive the essence’s treasure. Quickly secure your essence to sustain yourself. In this dwelling, a divine being always wears crimson robes, If you see him, you will never fall ill. A horizontal line a foot long marks his abode above. If you guard this, you will avoid harm, Breathing between the hut to repay your debts. Preserve completeness and firmness, and your body will receive blessings. In the square inch (mind), carefully conceal and store, And the spirit will return, rejuvenating the old to youth. The heart’s hidden knots flow downward in competition, Nourish your jade tree to make it strong and flourishing.
The Great Dao is not troublesome, with no distractions at noon, The Spirit Platform connects to heaven, overlooking the central wilderness. In the square inch, between the passes, The Jade Chamber contains the Spirit Gate. This is what the Prince (公子, Gōngzǐ) taught me: The Bright Hall (明堂, Míngtáng) reaches the four directions, the Dharma Sea’s source. The True Person’s Crimson Child (真人子丹, Zhēnrén Zǐ Dān) stands before me.
In the Three Passes, essence and qi are deep. If you desire immortality, cultivate Kunlun (昆仑, Kūnlún). The Twelve-Ringed Tower (十二环, Shíèr Huán) of the Silken Official (绎官, Yìguān), In the Crystal Chamber (琼室, Qióngshì), five colors gather. The Red Spirit’s Child (赤神之子, Chìshén Zhī Zǐ) stands in the Central Pool, Below lies the Long Wall, the Dark Valley’s city (玄谷邑, Xuángǔ Yì). For longevity, urgently cultivate the bedroom’s essence, Abandon lust, focus on refining your essence. The inch-field and foot-dwelling (寸田尺宅, Cùntián Chǐzhái) can nourish life, Bind your mind to eternal peace. Push your will, let the spirit wander with the Three Wonders (三奇, Sānqí). In action and stillness, the heart remains at peace. Always retain the Jade Chamber’s divine clarity, And think of the Great Granary (太仓, Tàicāng) to never hunger or thirst. Command the Six Ding (六丁, Liùdīng) and Jade Maidens (玉女, Yùnǚ), Close your essence gate to live forever. Before the Main Hall, the spirits dwell, Wash your heart, govern yourself, without corruption or defilement. Observe the five organs, regulate their rhythms and measures, Refine the six fu (六府, Liùfǔ) to be pure as silk.
Emptiness and non-action are the Dao’s foundation, All things follow nature, the Dao is not troublesome. Let go and do nothing, and the body will be at peace. The abode of emptiness is behind the curtains, Silent and vast, the mouth does not speak, Cultivate harmony, stand alone in the True Person’s office, Serene and desireless, stroll in the Virtue Garden (德园, Déyuán), Pure and quiet, fragrant before the Jade Maiden (玉女, Yùnǚ). Cultivate virtue, enlighten, and reach the Spirit Gate.
Context:
- Kunlun (昆仑, Kūnlún): Symbolises the spine or the central axis of the body, a cosmic mountain in Daoist cosmology.
- Three Passes (三关, Sānguān): The energy gates in the body (often the tailbone, heart, and forehead).
- Six Ding (六丁, Liùdīng): Spiritual generals in Daoist ritual, often invoked for protection.
- Great Granary (太仓, Tàicāng): The stomach/spleen, associated with digestion and qi transformation.
Middle Part (中部经第二)
Original:
作道优游深独居，扶养性命守虚无，恬淡自乐何思虑，羽翼已具正扶疏，长生久视乃飞去，五行参差同根蒂，
三五合气其本一，谁与共之斗日月，抱玉怀珠和子室，子能守一万事毕，子自有之持无失，即欲不死入金室，
出日大月是吾道，天七地三回相守，升降进退合乃久，玉石落落是吾宝，子自有之何不守，心晓根基养华彩，
服天顺地合藏精，七口之五回相合，昆仑之上不迷误，九原之山何亭亭，中有真人可使令，蔽以紫官舟城楼，
侠以日月如明珠，万岁昭昭非有期，外本三阳物自来，内拘三神可长生，魂欲上天魄入渊，还魂返魄道自然，
庶几结珠固灵根，匙金钥身完坚 ，载地悬天周乾坤，象以四时赤如舟，前仰后卑列其门，选以还丹与玄泉，
象龟引气致灵根，中有真人巾金巾，负甲持符开七门，此非扶叶实是根，昼夜忌之可长存，仙人造士非异有，
积精所致和专仁，人皆食谷与五味，独食太和阴阳气，故能不死天相既，试说五脏各有方，心为国主五脏王，
受意动静气得行，道自将我神明光，昼日昭昭夜自守，渴可得浆饥自饱，经历六府藏卯酉，通我精华调阴阳，
转阳之阴藏于九，常能行之耳不老，肝之为气修而长，罗列五脏主三光，上合三焦下玉浆，我神玖魄在中央，
精液流泉去鼻香，立于玄膺含明堂，雷电霹雳往相闻，右酉左卯是吾室。
Translation: Practice the Dao in leisure and solitude, deeply nourishing life, Guarding emptiness, cultivating the formless.
Serene and joyful, why worry or overthink? Your wings are already formed, upright and spread. Long life and eternal vision—then you may fly away. The Five Phases (五行, Wǔxíng) are uneven, yet share the same root, Three and five combine their qi, their source is One. Who can share this with the Dipper and Sun-Moon (斗日月, Dǒu Rìyuè)? Embrace jade, cherish pearls, and harmonize your chamber, If you guard the One (守一, Shǒu Yī), all things are complete. You already possess it, hold it without loss, If you desire immortality, enter the Golden Chamber (金室, Jīnshì).
Emerging sun, great moon – this is my Dao. Seven of Heaven, three of Earth, cycling and guarding each other, Rising and falling, advancing and retreating, harmonized for eternity. Jade stones scattered – these are my treasures. You already have this – why not guard it? The heart understands the root, nourishing radiant colors, Serve Heaven, follow Earth, uniting and storing essence. The five orifices and seven openings circulate and harmonize, On Kunlun’s peak, never lost or confused, The Nine Origin Mountain (九原之山, Jiǔyuán Zhī Shān) – how towering and grand! Within it, a True Person can command and direct, covered by purple palaces, boat cities, and towers, Flanked by sun and moon, bright as pearls, Ten thousand years of radiance – without end. Externally rooted in the Three Yang (三阳, Sānyáng), things come naturally, Internally restraining the Three Spirits (三神, Sānshén), you may live forever. The soul ascends to heaven, the po (魄, pò) descends to the abyss, Returning soul and po is the natural Dao. Perhaps forming a pearl to secure the Spirit Root, With golden key and jade lock, the body remains whole and firm.
Carrying Earth, suspending Heaven, encircling the cosmos, Modeling the four seasons, red as a boat, Front and back, high and low, arranged in order, Choosing the Returned Elixir (还丹, Huándān) and Mysterious Spring (玄泉, Xuánquán). The Turtle pulls qi to summon the Spirit Root, Within it, a True Person wears a golden turban, Carrying armor, holding talismans, opening the Seven Gates (七门, Qīmén). This is not a branch but the root, Day and night, guard it, and you may live forever. Immortal beings are not different from ordinary men, Accumulated essence and harmonized kindness achieve this. While others eat grains and the five flavors, I alone consume the harmonized yin-yang qi, Thus never dying, as Heaven bestows this fate.
Now, let me explain the Five Organs: The heart is the ruler of the kingdom, the king of the five organs. It receives intentions, moves and stills, and qi flows through it, The Dao naturally guides my spirit, bright and luminous. By day, it shines clearly; by night, it guards itself. When thirsty, you find drink; when hungry, you are sated. Passing through the six fu, storing in Mao and You (卯酉, Mǎo-Yǒu), It connects my essence and brilliance, regulating yin and yang. Transforming yang into yin, hidden in the nine,
Always practice this, and your ears will never age. The liver’s qi is cultivated and long, Arranged among the five organs, it governs the Three Luminaries (三光, Sānguāng). Above, it merges with the Triple Burner (三焦, Sānjīao); below, it produces jade liquid (玉浆, Yùjiāng). My spirit and nine po reside in the center, Essence flows like a spring, fragrant through the nose, Standing at the Mysterious Chest (玄膺, Xuányīng), holding the Bright Hall (明堂, Míngtáng). Thunder and lightning echo back and forth, Right: You (酉, Yǒu), Left: Mao (卯, Mǎo), this is my chamber.
Lower Part (下部经第三)
Original:
伏于志门侯天道，近在子身还自守，清静无为神留止，精神上下开分理，精候天道长生草，七窍已通不知老，
还坐天门侯阴阳，下于喉咙神明通，过华盖下清且凉，大清灵渊见吾形，期成还年可长生，还过华池动肾精，
立于明堂望丹田，将使诸神开命门，通利天道存灵根，阴阳列布若流星，肝气周还终无端，肺之为气三焦起，
上座天门侯故道，津液醴泉通六府，随鼻上下开两耳，窥视天地存童子，调和精华治发齿，颜色光泽不复白，
下于喉咙何落落，诸神皆会相求索，下大绛宫紫华色，隐藏华盖观通庐，专守心神转相呼，观我神明辟诸邪，
脾神还归依大家，致于胃管通虚无，藏养灵根不复枯，闭塞命门如玉都，寿传万岁年有余，脾中之神主中官，
朝会五脏列三光，上合天门合明堂，通利六府调五行，金木水火土为王，通利止脉汗为浆，修护七窍去不祥，
二神相待化玉英，上禀天气命益长，日月列布张阴阳，五脏之主肾最精，伏于太阴成吾形，出入二窍合黄庭，
呼吸虚无见吾形，强我筋骨血脉盛，恍惚不见过青灵，坐于庐下几小童，内息思存神明光，出于天门大无闲，
恬淡无欲养华茎，服食玄气可遂生，还返七门饮太渊，通我悬膺过青灵，坐于膺间见小童，问于仙迂与奇方，
服食芝草紫华英，头戴白素足丹田，沐浴华池生灵根，三府相得开命门，五味皆至善气还，披发行之可长存，
大道荡荡心勿烦，吾言毕矣勿妄传。
Translation: Hidden at the Will Gate (志门, Zhìmén), awaiting the Heavenly Dao, Close at hand in your body, return and guard it yourself. Pure, still, and non-acting, the spirit remains. Spirit and essence rise and fall, opening and dividing the principles. The essence awaits the Heavenly Dao’s immortal herb, With seven orifices open, you forget old age. Return and sit at the Heavenly Gate (天门, Tiānmén), guarding yin and yang, Descend to the throat, where the spirit communicates clearly. Passing the Canopy (华盖, Huágài), cool and pure, The Great Clarity’s (大清, Dàqīng) spiritual abyss reveals my form. Achieve this, and you may return to youth and live forever. Returning past the Flower Pool (华池, Huáchí), stirring the kidney essence, Stand in the Bright Hall (明堂, Míngtáng), gazing at the Cinnabar Field, commanding the spirits to open the Gate of Life (命门, Mìngmén). Unblock the Heavenly Dao, preserve the Spirit Root, Yin and yang align like shooting stars.
The liver’s qi circulates endlessly, The lung’s qi rises from the Triple Burner, Ascending to the Heavenly Gate, awaiting the old Dao, Saliva and sweet springs flow through the six fu. Following the nose, up and down, opening the two ears, Peering at Heaven and Earth, retaining the Child (童子, Tóngzǐ). Harmonize essence and brilliance to treat hair and teeth, complexion radiant, never gray again. Descending to the throat, how vast and empty, All spirits gather, seeking each other. Below the Great Crimson Palace (大绛宫, Dàjiàng Gōng), purple radiance, Hidden beneath the Canopy, observing the Open Hut (通庐, Tōnglú). Focus on the heart’s spirit, calling to each other, Observe my divine clarity, warding off all evil. The spleen’s spirit returns to its great home, Reaching the stomach’s passage, connecting to emptiness. Nourish the Spirit Root, never withering, Seal the Gate of Life like the Jade Capital (玉都, Yùdū). Life extends for ten thousand years, with years to spare. The spleen’s spirit governs the central official, Auditing the five organs, aligning with the Three Luminaries, Connecting with the Heavenly Gate, merging with the Bright Hall. Unblock the six fu, regulate the Five Phases: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, Earth are kings. Unblock the pulses, sweat becomes nectar, Cultivate and protect the seven orifices to ward off misfortune. Two spirits meet, transforming into jade essence, Above, they receive Heaven’s qi, lengthening life’s mandate. Sun and moon spread yin and yang, The kidneys are the most precious of the five organs’ lords. Hidden in the Greater Yin (太阴, Tàiyīn), forming my body, Entering and exiting the two orifices, merging with the Yellow Court. Breathing in emptiness, seeing my form, Strengthening my sinews, bones, blood, and vessels, Elusive and unseen, passing the Green Spirit (青灵, Qīnglíng). Sitting beneath the hut, a youthful soul appears, Inhaling and thinking, storing divine light, Exhaling through the Heavenly Gate, vast and unobstructed. Serene and desireless, nourishing the radiant stem, Consuming the mysterious qi, you may attain life. Return through the Seven Gates, drinking from the Great Abyss (太渊, Tàiyuān), Passing my suspended chest, crossing the Green Spirit. Sitting in the chest, I see a small boy, Asking the Immortal Path (仙迂, Xiān Yū) and mysterious methods, Consuming the mushroom’s purple blossoms, Head adorned with white silk, feet planted in the Cinnabar Field, Bathing in the Flower Pool, giving birth to the Spirit Root. The Three Palaces (三府, Sānfǔ) harmonize, opening the Gate of Life, All five flavors arrive, good qi returns, Disheveled, practice this, and you may live forever. The Great Dao is vast, do not trouble your heart, My words are complete; do not transmit them recklessly.
Key Themes in the Outer Scripture
- Cosmic Alignment: The text emphasizes harmonizing the body with Heaven (天, Tiān) and Earth (地, Dì), aligning microcosm (body) with macrocosm (universe).
- Breath and Qi Circulation: Techniques like “exhale the sun, inhale the moon” and “breathing in emptiness” refine qi and spirit.
Organ Deities: Each organ is personified as a divine being (e.g., the spleen’s spirit, the kidney’s essence), reflecting Daoist inner alchemy.
Longevity Practices: Sealing the Gate of Life (命门, Mìngmén) to preserve essence. Consuming qi instead of food (e.g., “independent of the five flavors”). Visualizing deities and light within the body.- Symbolism: Kunlun (昆仑): The spine or central axis., Seven Gates (七门, Qīmén): Energy centers along the body. Flower Pool (华池, Huáchí): The mouth or saliva as elixir.
黄庭经
内景经
上清章第一
上清紫霞虚皇前，太上大道玉晨君，闲居蕊珠作七言，散化五形变万神。是为黄庭曰内篇，琴心三叠舞胎仙，九气映明出霄间，神盖童子生紫烟。是曰玉书可精研，咏之万过升三天，千灾以消百病痊，不惮虎狼之凶残，亦以却老年永延。
上有章第二
上有魂灵下关元，左为少阳右太阴，后有密户前生门。出日入月呼吸存，元气所合列宿分，紫烟上下三素云，灌溉五华植灵根，七液洞流冲庐间。迥紫抱黄入丹田，幽室内明照阳门。
口为章第三
口为玉池太和宫，漱咽灵液灾不干，体生光华气香兰，却灭百邪玉炼颜。审能修之登广寒，昼夜不寐乃成真，雷鸣电激神泯泯。
黄庭章第四
黄庭内人服锦衣，紫华飞裙云气罗，丹青绿条翠灵柯，七蕤[ruí]玉龠yuè]闭两扉，重扇金阙密枢[shū] 机，玄泉幽阙高崔巍，三田之中精气微，娇女窈窕翳霄晖，重堂焕焕明八威，天庭地关列釜斤，灵台盘固永不衰。
中池章第五
中池内神服赤珠，丹锦云袍带虎符，横津三寸灵所居，隐芝翳[yi] 郁自相扶。
天中章第六
天中之岳精谨修，云宅既清玉帝游，通利道路无终休，眉号华盖覆明珠，九幽日月洞空无，宅中有真常衣丹。审能见之无疾患，赤珠灵裙华茜粲，舌下膺玄生死岸，出青入玄二气焕，子若遇之升天汉。
至道章第七
至道不烦诀存真，泥丸百节皆有神。发神苍华字太元，脑神精根字泥丸，眼神明上字英玄，鼻神玉垄字灵坚，耳神空闲字幽田，舌神通命字正伦，齿神峨峰字罗千。一面之神宗泥丸，泥丸九真皆有房，方圆一寸处此中，内服紫衣飞罗裳，但思一部寿无穷，非各别住俱脑中，列位次坐向外方，所存在心自相当。
心神章第八
心神丹元字守灵，肺神皓华字虚成，肝神龙烟字台明，翳郁导烟主浊清，肾神玄冥字育婴，脾神常在字魂停，胆神龙曜字威明。六腑五脏神体精，皆在心内运天经，昼夜存之自长生。
肺部间第九
肺部之官似华盖，下有童子坐玉阙，七元之子主调气，外应中岳鼻脐位，素锦衣裳黄云带。喘息呼吸体不快，急存白元和六气，神仙久视无灾害，用之不已形不滞。
心部章第十
心部之官莲含华，下有童子丹元家，主适寒热荣卫和。丹锦飞裳披玉罗，金铃朱带坐婆裟。调血理命身不枯，外应口舌吐五华，临绝呼之亦登苏，久久行之飞太霞。
肝部章第十一
肝部之中翠重里，下有青童神公子，主诸关镜聪明始，青锦披裳佩玉铃。和制魂魄津液平，外应眼目日月清，百疗所钟存无英，同用七日自充盈，垂绝念神死复生，摄魂还魄永无倾。
肾部章第十二
肾部之宫玄阴圃，中有童子冥上玄，主诸六府九液源，外应两耳百液津，苍锦云衣舞龙潘，上致的霞日月烟，百病千灾急当存，两部水王对生门，使人长生升九天。
脾部章第十三
脾部之官属戌已，中有明童黄裳里，消谷散气摄牙齿，是为太仓两明童，坐在金合城九重，方圆一寸命门中，主调百谷五朱香，辟却虚赢无病伤，外应尺宅气色芳，光华所生以表明，黄锦玉衣带虎章，注念三老子轻翔，长生高仙远死殃。
胆部章第十四
胆部之宫六府精，中有童子曜威明，雷电八振扬玉旌，龙旗横天掷火铃，主诸气力摄虎兵，外应眼童鼻柱间，脑发相扶亦俱鲜，九色锦衣绿华裙，佩金带玉龙虎文，能存成明乘庆云，役使万神朝三元。
碑长章第十五
脾长一尺掩太仓，中部老君冶明堂，厥字灵元名混康，治人百病消谷粮，黄衣紫带龙虎章，长枯益命赖君王，三呼我名神自通，三老同坐各有朋，或精或胎别执方，桃孩合延生华芒，男女徊尤有桃康，道父道母对相望，师父师母丹玄乡，可用存思登虚空，殊途一会归要终，闭塞三关握固停，含漱金醴[lǐ] 吞玉英，遂至不饥三虫亡，心意常和致欣昌，五岳之云气彭亨，保灌玉庐以自偿，五形完坚无灾殃。
上睹章第十六
上睹三元如连珠，落落明景照九隅[yú] ，五灵夜烛焕八区，子存内皇与我游，身披风衣衔虎符，一至不久升虚无，方寸之中念深藏，不方不圆闭牖[yǒu] 窗，三神还精老方壮，魂魄内守不争竞，神生腹中衔宝玉，灵注幽阙那得丧，琳条万寻可荫仗，三魂自宁帝书命。
灵台章第十七
灵台郁蔼望黄野，三寸异室有上下，间阙营卫高玄受，洞房紫极灵门户，是昔太上告我者，左神公子发神语，右有白元并立外，明堂金匮玉房间，上清其人当吾前，黄裳子丹气频烦，借问何在两眉端，内侠日月列宿陈，七曜九元冠生门。
三关章第十八
三关之中精气深，九微之内幽且阴，口为天关精神机，足为地关生命靡，手为人关把盛衰。
若得章第十九
若得三官存玄丹，太一流珠安昆仑，重重楼阁十二环，自高自下皆真人，玉堂绎字尽玄官，璇玑王衡色兰歼，瞻望童子坐盘恒，问谁家子在我身，此人可去入泥龙，千千百百自相连，一一十十似重山，云仪五华侠耳门，赤帝黄老与己魂，三真挟胥共房津，五斗焕明是七元，日月飞行六合间，帝乡天中地户端，面部魂神绵相存。
呼吸章第二十
呼吸元气以求仙，仙公公子已可前，朱鸟吐缩白石源，结精育胞化生身，留胎止精可长生，三气右徊九道明，正一含华乃充盈，遥望一心如罗星，金室之下可不倾，延我白首反孩婴。
琼室章第二十一
琼室之中太素集，泥九夫人当中立，长谷玄乡绕郊邑，六龙散飞难分别，长生至慎房中急，何为死作令神泣，忽之祸乡三灵及，但当吸气录子精，寸田尺宅可治生，若当决海百读倾，叶去树枯失青青，气亡液漏非已形，专闭御景乃长宁，保我泥龙三奇灵，恬淡闭视内自明，物物不干泰而平，悫矣匪事老复丁，思咏玉书太上清。
常念章第二十二
常念三房相通达，洞得视见无内外，存漱五牙不饥渴，神华执巾六丁谒，急守精室勿妄泄，闭而宝之可长活，起自形中初不阔，三官近在易隐括，虚无寂寂空中素，使形如是不当污，九室正虚神明舍，存思百念视节度，六府修治勿令故，行自翱翔入天路。
治生章第二十三
治生之道了不烦，但修洞玄与玉篇，兼行形中八景神，二十四真出自然，高拱无为魂魄安，清静神见与我言，安在紫房帏幔间，立坐室外三五玄，烧香接手玉华前，共入太室璇玑门，高研恬淡道之园，内神密盼尽睹真，真人在己莫问邻，何处远索示因缘。
隐影章第二十四
隐影藏形与世殊，含气养精口如朱，带执性命守虚无，名大上清死录除，三神之乐由隐居，倏欻游遨无遗忧，羽服一整八风驱，控驾三素乘晨霞，金辇正立从玉舆，何不登山诵我书，郁郁窃窍真人墟，入山何难故踌躇。人间纷纷臭帑如。
五行章第二十五
五行相推反归一，三五合气九九节，可用隐地回八术，伏牛幽阙罗品列，三明出华生死际，洞房灵象斗日月，父曰泥丸母雌一，三光焕照入子室，能存玄真万事毕，一身精神不可失。
高奔章第二十六
高奔日月吾上道，郁仪结磷善相保，乃见玉清虚无老，可以回颜填血脑，口衔灵芒携五皇，腰带虎录佩金当，驾欻接生宴东蒙。
玄元章第二十七
玄元上一魂魄炼，一之为物巨卒见，须得至真始顾盼，至忌死气诸秽*，六神合集虚中宴，结珠固精养神根，玉匙金钥常完坚，闭口屈舌食胎津，使我逮炼获飞仙。
仙人章第二十八
仙人道士非有神，积精累气以为真，黄童妙音难可闻，玉书绎简赤舟文。字曰真人巾金巾，负甲持符开七门，火兵符图备灵关，前昂后卑高下陈，执剑百丈舞锦幡，十绝盘空扇纷纭，火铃冠霄坠落烟，安在黄阙两眉间，此非枝叶实是根。
紫清章第二十九
紫清上皇大道君，太玄太和侠侍端，化生万物使我仙，飞升十天驾玉轮，昼夜七日思勿眠，子能行此可长存，积功成炼非自然，是由精诚亦由专，内守坚固真之真，虚中恬淡自致神。
百谷章第三十
百谷之实土地精，五味外美邪魔腥，臭乱神明胎气零，那从返老得还婴，三魂忽忽魄糜倾，何不食气太和精，故能不死大黄宁。
心典章第三十一
心典一体五藏王，动静念之道德行，清洁善气自明光，坐起吾俱共栋梁，昼日曜景暮闭藏，通利华精调阴阳。
经历章第三十二
经历六合隐卯酉，两肾之神主延寿，转降适斗藏初九，知雄守雌可无老，知白见黑急坐守。
肝气章第三十三
肝气都勃清且长，罗列六府生三光，心精意专内不倾，上合三焦下玉浆，玄液云行去奥香，治荡发齿炼正方，取津玄府大明堂，下溉喉咙神明通，坐待华盖游贵京，飘摇三帝席清凉，五色云气纷青葱，闭日内眄自相望，使心诸神还相崇，七玄英华开命门，通利天道存玄根，百二十年犹可还，过此守道诚独难，唯待九转入琼丹，要复精思存七元，日月之华救老残，肝气周流终无端。
肺之章第三十四
肺之为气三焦起，视听幽冥候童子，调理五华精发齿，三十六咽玉池里，开通百脉血液始，颜色生光金玉泽，齿坚发黑不知白，存此真神勿落落，当忆此官有座席，众神合会转相索。
隐我章第三十五
隐藏羽盖看天舍，朝拜太阳乐相呼，明神八威正辟邪，脾神还归是胃家，耽养灵根不复枯，闭塞命门保玉都，万神方胙寿有余，是谓脾建在中官，五脏六腑神明王，上合天门大明堂，守雌存雄顶三光，外方内圆神在中，通利血脉五脏丰，骨青筋赤髓如霜，脾救七窍去不祥，日月列布设阴阴，两神相会化玉浆，淡然无味天人粮，子丹进馔肴正黄，乃曰琅膏及玉霜，太上隐环太素琼，溉益八液肾受精，伏于太阴见我形，扬风三玄出始青，恍惚之间至清灵，坐于飚台见赤生，逸域熙真养华荣，内盼沉默炼五形，三气徘徊得神明，隐龙遁芝云琅英，可以充饥使万灵，上盖玄玄下虎章。
沐浴章第三十六
沐浴盛洁弃肥薰，入室东向诵玉篇，约得万遍义自鲜，散发无欲以长存，五未皆至正气还，夷心寂闷匆烦冤，过数已华体神精，黄华玉女告子情，真人既至使六丁，即授隐芝大洞经，十读四拜朝太上，先谒太帝后北向，黄庭内经玉书畅，授者曰师受者盟，云锦风罗金钮缠，以代割发肌肤金，携手登山敌液丹，金书王景乃可宣，传得可授告三官，勿令七祖受冥患，太上微言致神仙，不死之道此真文。
黄庭外景经
上部经第一
老君闲居作七言，解说身形及诸神，上有黄庭下关元，后有幽阙前命门，
呼吸庐间入丹田，玉池清水灌灵根，审能修之可长存，黄庭中人衣朱衣，
关元茂龠阖两靡，幽阙侠之高巍巍，丹田之中精气微，玉池清水上生肥，
灵根坚固老不衰，中池有士服赤衣，横下三寸神所居，中外相距重闭之，
神庐之中当修治，玄府气管受精府，急固子精以自持，宅中有士常衣绎，
子能见之可不病，横立长尺约其上，子能守之或无惹，呼吸庐间以自偿，
子保完坚身受庆，方寸之中谨盖藏，精神还归老复壮，心结幽厥流下竞，
养子玉树令可壮，至道不烦无旁午，灵台通天临中野，方寸之中间关下，
玉房之中神门户，既是公子教我者，明堂四达法海源，真人子丹当吾前，
三关之中精气深，子欲不死修昆仑，绎官重楼十二环，琼室之中五色集，
赤神之子中池立，下有长城玄谷邑，长生要慎房中急，弃捐淫欲专子精，
寸田尺宅可治生，系子长留心安宁，推志游神三奇灵，行间无事心太平，
常存玉房神明达，时思太仓不饥渴，役使六丁玉女渴，闭子精门可长活，
正室堂前神所舍，洗心自治无败污，历观五脏视节度，六府修治洁如素，
虚无自然道之固，物有自然道不烦，垂拱无为身体安，虚无之居在帏间，
寂寞郭然口不言，修和独立真人官，恬淡无欲游德园，清净香洁玉女前，
修德明达神之门。
中部经第二
作道优游深独居，扶养性命守虚无，恬淡自乐何思虑，羽翼已具正扶疏，
长生久视乃飞去，五行参差同根蒂，三五合气其本一，谁与共之斗日月，
抱玉怀珠和子室，子能守一万事毕，子自有之持无失，即欲不死入金室，
出日大月是吾道，天七地三回相守，升降进退合乃久，玉石落落是吾宝，
子自有之何不守，心晓根基养华彩，服天顺地合藏精，七口之五回相合，
昆仑之上不迷误，九原之山何亭亭，中有真人可使令，蔽以紫官舟城楼，
侠以日月如明珠，万岁昭昭非有期，外本三阳物自来，内拘三神可长生，
魂欲上天魄入渊，还魂返魄道自然，庶几结珠固灵根玉，匙金钥身完坚，
载地悬天周乾坤，象以四时赤如舟，前仰后卑列其门，选以还丹与玄泉，
象龟引气致灵根，中有真人巾金巾，负甲持符开七门，此非扶叶实是根，
昼夜忌之可长存，仙人造士非异有，积精所致和专仁，人皆食谷与五味，
独食太和阴阳气，故能不死天相既，试说五脏各有方，心为国主五脏王，
受意动静气得行，道自将我神明光，昼日昭昭夜自守，渴可得浆饥自饱，
经历六府藏卯酉，通我精华调阴阳，转阳之阴藏于九，常能行之耳不老，
肝之为气修而长，罗列五脏主三光，上合三焦下玉浆，我神玖魄在中央，
精液流泉去鼻香，立于玄膺含明堂，雷电霹雳往相闻，右酉左卯是吾室。
下部经第三
伏于志门侯天道，近在子身还自守，清静无为神留止，精神上下开分理，
精候天道长生草，七窍已通不知老，还坐天门侯阴阳，下于喉咙神明通，
过华盖下清且凉，大清灵渊见吾形，期成还年可长生，还过华池动肾精，
立于明堂望丹田，将使诸神开命门，通利天道存灵根，阴阳列布若流星，
肝气周还终无端，肺之为气三焦起，上座天门侯故道，津液醴泉通六府，
随鼻上下开两耳，窥视天地存童子，调和精华治发齿，颜色光泽不复白，
下于喉咙何落落，诸神皆会相求索，下大绛宫紫华色，隐藏华盖观通庐，
专守心神转相呼，观我神明辟诸邪，脾神还归依大家，致于胃管通虚无，
藏养灵根不复枯，闭塞命门如玉都，寿传万岁年有余，脾中之神主中官，
朝会五脏列三光，上合天门合明堂，通利六府调五行，金木水火土为王，
通利止脉汗为浆，修护七窍去不祥，二神相待化玉英，上禀天气命益长，
日月列布张阴阳，五脏之主肾最精，伏于太阴成吾形，出入二窍合黄庭，
呼吸虚无见吾形，强我筋骨血脉盛，恍惚不见过青灵，坐于庐下几小童，
内息思存神明光，出于天门大无闲，恬淡无欲养华茎，服食玄气可遂生，
还返七门饮太渊，通我悬膺过青灵，坐于膺间见小童，问于仙迂与奇方，
服食芝草紫华英，头戴白素足丹田，沐浴华池生灵根，三府相得开命门，
五味皆至善气还，披发行之可长存，大道荡荡心勿烦，吾言毕矣勿妄传。