Qusu Shangjing: Five-Phase Talismans for Immortality

The Shangqing Supreme Jade Dawn Phoenix Terrace Qusu Upper Scripture

The Shangqing Supreme Jade Dawn Phoenix Terrace Qusu Upper Scripture (Shangqing Gaoshang Yuchen Fengtai Qusu Shangjing) is one of the early classics of the Shangqing School, presumably dating back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317–420 CE).

Catalogue of the Shangqing Great Grottoes True Scripture (Shangqing Dadong Zhenjing Mu) records the entry "One Scroll of the Shangqing Qusu Formulae and Five Elements Secret Talismans"; Volume 27 of The Supreme Secret Essentials (Wushang Miyao) quotes from The True Mystery Phoenix Terrace Qusu Upper Scripture (Dongzhen Fengtai Qusu Shangjing)—both references refer to this text. The surviving version of this scripture today is included in the Zhengyi (Orthodox Unity) Section of the Daozang (Taoist Canon).

The scripture is divided into three parts:

The Supreme Jade Dawn Qusu Grief-Joy Wisdom Verses (Gaoshang Yuchen Qusu Youle Huici). It contains five eulogistic poems (titled "Verses of Grief and Joy") and five talismans (titled "Spiritual Banners of the Five Emperors for Commanding Demons"). It states that by reciting the verses and wearing the talismans in accordance with the prescribed methods, one can invoke the protection of the Five Emperors and ascend to become an immortal.
The Qusu Formulae Verses by the Left True Person of the Taiji (Taiji Zuozhenren Qusu Jueci). It includes two talismans (titled "Qusu Formulae Verses"). Wearing these talismans in accordance with the method can summon and subdue ghosts from the Six Heavens and vanquish evil demons.
The Supreme Qusu Five Elements Secret Talismans (Taishang Qusu Wuxing Mifu), which is falsely attributed to the Left Immortal Lord of Taiji (Ge Xuan). It contains the "hidden names" of the "True Lords of the Five Elements’ Parents" and ten talismans. By preserving the spirit, contemplating the true essence, and wearing the Five Elements Secret Talismans in accordance with the method, one can summon the soul, control the corporeal soul, preserve life, and command spirits—achieving immortality in nine years.

The Taoist practices advocated throughout the entire scripture are primarily focused on "preserving the spirit and wearing talismans" (cunshen peifu).