The Yellow Register Unhindered Nocturnal Rite 黄箓九幽醮无碍夜斋次第仪

Anonymous author; judging from its content and literary style, it is believed to date from the Song Dynasty.

Consisting of one scroll, it is included in the Dongxuan Section (Mysterious Grotto Section) of the Daozang under the category of Rituals and Ceremonies.

This ritual was performed to offer sacrifices and salvation to the deceased on the seventh day or seventh anniversary of their passing. The term "Wulai Yezhai" (Unimpeded Night Retreat) is presumably derived from the Esoteric Buddhist "Mindo Wuzhe Dazhai" (Unrestricted Great Retreat for the Underworld), signifying the universal salvation of all lonely ghosts regardless of social status or rank—embracing the inclusive spirit similar to the Taoist concept of Three Realms. The retreat was typically held at night, divided into three periods: the quiet night, the first watch, and the second watch. The ritual procedures were quite elaborate, featuring key segments such as proclaiming and burning memorials, notices, and prayers related to money and passage; summoning spirits; reciting the secret incantations of the celestial realms; repenting for sins; preaching precepts; arranging unrestricted feast seats; and conducting the Jiuyou Jiao (Nine Underworlds Sacrifice).