Zhengyi Scripture of Methods: Precepts and Codes of the Celestial Master
Author unknown. Compiled approximately during the Northern and Southern Dynasties.
Originally one of the fragmentary scrolls of Zhengyi Scripture of Methods—a core classic of early Celestial Master Daoism—the book compiles five texts on the precepts, codes, and decrees of Celestial Master Daoism, namely: Scripture of Precepts of Lord Lao (originally anonymous), Imperial Decree of the Great Dao, Instructions of the Celestial Master, Yangping See, and Five-Character Pulling Three Poems of the Celestial Master.
The first text opens with an exposition of precepts and teachings, expounding the rationale of upholding the Dao and observing precepts, and exhorting believers to practice the Five Precepts of Celestial Master Daoism. Subsequent texts including Imperial Decree of the Great Dao, Instructions of the Celestial Master, and Yangping See were issued by the descendants of Zhang Lu during the Cao Wei period. They outline the myth that the Supreme Great Dao generated heaven, earth, and all things; that the Dao descended to the mortal world repeatedly since the time of the Yellow Emperor to impart teachings and scriptures; and that the Dao of Orthodox Unity Alliance and Might was bestowed upon Zhang Daoling, enabling him to establish the Twenty-Four Sees for instructing and transforming Daoist followers. Moreover, these texts criticize the organizational chaos and the lax enforcement of rules and regulations within the Five Pecks of Rice Dao during the Cao Wei period, urging all Daoist officials and believers to rectify the Daoist sees, abide by the religious decrees, perform good deeds and accumulate merits, so as to pursue peace and longevity.
The final section contains eleven poems titled Pulling Three Poems, which are believed to have been written by Wang Jia of the Eastern Jin Dynasty.
Composed after Zhang Lu of the late Han Dynasty and before Kou Qianzhi of the Northern Wei Dynasty, this book holds referential value for the study of the history and doctrines of Celestial Master Daoism during the Wei and Jin dynasties.
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