The Luotian Dajiao Triple Audience Ritual 罗天大醮早午晚三朝仪

The original author is unknown.

According to research, it was compiled by Wang Qinruo, the Grand Councilor, by imperial order in the 8th year of the Dazhong Xiangfu reign period of Emperor Zhenzong of Song (1015 CE), and later revised by subsequent generations. Originally one scroll, it is included in the Dongxuan Section (Mysterious Grotto Section) of the Daozang under the category of Rituals and Ceremonies, divided into three parts: the Morning Ritual, the Midday Ritual and the Evening Ritual.

The Luotian Grand Sacrifice is a ritual held by Taoist priests on behalf of ordinary families. It involves offering sacrifices to invite celestial deities and sages, paying homage to them, so as to atone for sins, dispel disasters, pray for blessings and grace, wish the host’s entire family—young and old—health and safety, benefit both the living and the deceased, and ensure all matters thrive. It also extends prayers for the stability of the imperial state and the prosperity of the imperial cause.

The procedures of the three daily rituals are roughly similar, mainly including proclaiming prayers, making repentance, performing sacrifices, subduing demons, and so on.