The Enduring Scripture of Subduing Evil by Sage Lord Guan 關聖帝君伏魔真經

An Image of Sage Lord Guan

關考人驗測道心  真心一點貫古今

聖賢之門正道統  了脫生死從此門

All things in life are sent to test the heart inspired by Tao.

Even a drop of true sincerity can cross time and follow the noble path.

Through the door of the saints, the sacred Tao is passed down.

Only by entering this portal can one be freed from life and death.

Challenges come through people and events to test the heart that longs to follow Tao. Yet across all ages, only a genuine heart—rooted in what does not change—can remain firm through every trial. From that unchanging source flows the way walked by the saints, guided by the essential teachings passed down through the Tao’s lineage. Though hidden, this sacred way leads beyond life and death and opens the door to what is everlasting.

帝王將相憑何論  功過對錯秤己身

君臨天下塵世現  賞善罰惡鑑世人

What test reveals the worth of those in power?

It is their own merit and fault—their right and wrong.

I have come into this mortal world

to reward the good, punish the immoral, and unveil the truth in every heart.

The worth of a person—whether ruler, minister, or general—is not found in their position, but in the truth revealed by their actions: the good they have done, the harm they have caused, and the voice of conscience that speaks within. I have come into this world to warn all people, to lift up the good, to bring justice to the wicked, and to hold up a mirror to every heart.

伏虎降龍家邦振  威靈顯赫三界驚

魔高一丈何足懼  道高一尺化太平

Tame the heart of violence and injustice, and restore the homeland to strength.

This is the power of true spirit—it moves all within the three realms.

Though evil may rise and grow bold, do not be afraid,

for when virtue stands tall, peace shall return to the world.

To walk in truth, you must master yourself—subdue every emotion and desire, as one would tame fierce dragons and tigers. Only then can you stand unshaken against the rising tide of injustice and restore the homeland. Such strength stirs the three realms. Though darkness spreads and chaos grows, do not fear. Even the smallest rise of virtue holds the power to drive back disorder and bring peace to all.

真水真火繫身上  浩然充塞在其中

經年累月修精進  忠孝節義表萬民

The body holds true fire and water;

from them, a mighty and upright force is born.

Through months and years of patient attunement,

loyalty, filial love, integrity, and righteousness shine before all.

This strength is not found outside, but lives within—the spirit born of true water and true fire, placed deep inside you. It fills your whole being with fearless strength and right purpose. It gives you the power to stand firm in justice. But this strength does not come all at once—it must be shaped through steady effort, day by day, year by year, until your life becomes a living example of loyalty, filial love, integrity, and righteousness for all to see.

關聖帝君伏魔真經  一柱心香上告天庭

齋莊中正純然清淨  無思雜念意誠顯靈

With Sage Lord Guan’s Enduring Scripture of Subduing Evil,

offer one true incense to the Heavenly Court.

Be reverent in conduct, upright in thought, and pure in heart.

In stillness of mind, sincerity draws forth the divine.

To invoke Sage Lord Guan’s Enduring Scripture of Subduing Evil, begin by offering a single true incense to show your heart before the Heavenly Court. Let your appearance be dignified, and your heart steady—upright, calm, pure, and full of reverence. When the mind is still and the heart sincere, the response will surely come.

二目守玄真人佛性  敬天禮神善心服膺

手提合仝子亥懷抱  精忠貫日一片丹心

Turn your gaze inward, to the gate of the true self—the Buddha-nature.

Revere Heaven, honor the divine, and root all goodness in the heart.

Hold the sacred seal—Zi and Hai—close to your chest.

From one sincere heart, devotion burns bright and rises toward Heaven.

With your heart prepared, turn your gaze toward what is sacred and unseen, for within it lies the true self—the Buddha nature. In that still and sacred calm, offer respect to Heaven and honor the divine, both above and within. This is how true kindness is kept close, held as something holy. With steady hands, form the sacred seal, and hold the child—Zi and Hai—near your chest. Let this devotion shine like the sun, and let the faithful heart stand firm—unshaken by time.

焚香禱誦伏魔真經  神威法身即刻降臨

斬妖除魔賊寇平定  魍魉邪魔杳無踪影

With incense lit, offer prayer and recite the Scripture of Subduing Evil.

Then my true form descends with divine power—

to strike down demons, cast out evil, and restore peace.

Dark spirits vanish, leaving no trace, no shadow behind.

Now, grounded in reverence and strength, offer incense and prayer once more, and begin to chant the Enduring Scripture of Subduing Evil. In that very moment, my all-powerful true form will appear—to drive out evil, strike down the wicked, and restore peace. Every dark force, both within and beyond, will be shattered and wiped away without a trace. 

先論修身存心養性  格物致知誠意正心

天高地厚奥妙至理  物事明究通曉人情

First, let us speak of building character by nurturing the heart and true nature.

It begins with watching the mind—to gain insight, and stay sincere and clear.

Heaven’s wisdom, Earth’s virtues, and the hidden truths of all things

unfold through quiet reflection, where the ways of life and the heart are revealed.

First, let us speak of the inner work that must match this sacred power—work that begins with building character with the intention to guard one’s true nature. It starts by watching the mind and keeping thoughts pure, so the heart stays sincere and the mind clear. With steady practice, you may glimpse the wisdom of Heaven and the virtues of Earth, and be moved to follow their example. There, the wondrous truth is found. As you walk this path, you will come to understand the world and treat others with wisdom, kindness, and care.

闢除異端分別義利  闡揚道義大道流行

玩物喪志玩人喪命  戒除逸慾勤奮耕耘

Clear away false ideas, and know what is right and what is led by selfish gain.

Let moral principles spread, so the Great Tao flows freely through the world.

Overindulgence weakens the will, and harming others for fun leads to death.

Only by turning from indulgence and desire can one grow with steady steps.

When faced with false teachings, turn away without hesitation and hold firmly to what is right. Never trade your moral duty for selfish gain. Instead, speak the truth and help the Great Tao take root in every heart. Beware: those who chase after pleasure lose their purpose, and those who harm others for amusement bring trouble and demise upon themselves. Let go of desires for indulgence, and remain committed to the steady work of shaping your heart and character through service.

若存惡心明瞞暗騙  狡詐偷刻欺哄愚矇

鄙賤弱小恃權辱善  倚富壓貧利令智昏

If the heart is clouded with ill will, spinning open lies and weaving dark trickery,

it fills with cruel schemes to mislead the innocent.

Such a heart scorns the poor, misuses power to shame the virtuous,

and wields wealth to crush the needy—its wisdom dimmed by greed’s shadow.

When people lie with ill intent—whether in secret or in plain sight—and feel no moral shame, the downfall of society begins. Lies take root, and trickery is used to harm the innocent. The powerful grow proud and cold, looking down on the weak. Power is turned against the morally upright, and wealth becomes a weapon to crush the poor. Greed spreads like a disease, poisoning the heart and clouding the conscience.

犯者反省速勿怠慢  偃月快刀毫不留情

憑藉公職斂財謀利  佔為己有罪丈萬深

Those who commit such offenses must reflect at once and face their faults,

for the Crescent Moon Blade strikes swiftly, without mercy.

Turning public trust into a path for personal gain

and claiming what is not yours is a grave wrongdoing.

Whoever commits these offenses must repent and change without delay, for the Crescent Moon Blade is swift and shows no mercy. To use a position meant to serve the people for selfish gain is a grave betrayal—a misdeed beyond all reckoning.

金銀財寶善財善捨  大似須彌佛家一文

貪嗔痴愛心思不斷  酒色財氣牆困真人

Honor wealth by doing good—give freely with a generous heart.

Even a single coin, offered in truth, holds merit as great as Mount Sumeru.

But when the heart clings to greed, anger, and blind desire, the mind cannot rest.

Alcohol, lust, riches, and pride become walls that trap the true self.

Wealth given with compassion—even the smallest offering—holds great weight when it comes from a true and sincere heart, as heavy as Mount Sumeru. But when the heart opens to greed, anger, and blind desire, these rush in without end. Wine, lust, money, and pride rise like a wall around the true self, shutting out the light within.

克己峻嚴難處下手  聞惡裝聾聞道明聰

存養省察心存畏敬  除惡務盡斬草除根

Discipline yourself with firm standards, and begin where change is hardest.

Turn your ears from evil, and open them to the voice of truth.

Hold fast to the good within, reflect often, and keep the heart full of reverence.

Remove all wrongdoing—root it out completely, so it does not return.

So be strict with yourself, and begin where the struggle is greatest, for that is where true change begins. Shut your ears to evil, but listen closely to what is true, for truth and virtue bring light to the mind. Watch each thought with care, and keep a heart filled with awe and respect. Do not let evil take root—remove it completely, and pull it out by the root.

氣粗浮躁氣盛生事  待人處事溫良儉恭

至誠無息暗室無欺  二六慎獨時刻戰兢

A restless temper invites trouble; an unsteady heart stirs the winds of conflict.

To calm the storm, live with grace, act kindly, and show sincere respect.

Let your heart remain sincere—true in the open, honest in the unseen.

Let your conscience be your guide, and walk each step with care and reverence.

Remember that impatience and pride open the door to conflict. Instead, be calm, kind, and respectful—in all you do and toward all you meet. Keep your heart true, even when no one is watching. Watch yourself closely, day and night, for the path of virtue is walked with careful steps, one moment at a time.

見義勇為不分物我  萬類相感以忠以誠

無慾而剛有道而正  效法白水一生潔清

Do right with courage, and let the line between self and world fade.

With devotion and sincerity, the heart harmonizes with Heaven and all living things.

Without desires, the spirit grows strong; in truth, you stand upright.

Follow Bai Shui, whose life flowed pure and clear from start to end.

Have the courage to do what is right and help those in need, no matter who they are or what they face. The world responds to those who are faithful and sincere in their duty. True strength rises in those who seek nothing for themselves, and uprightness flows from those who shape their hearts by learning from the wise and virtuous. Walk in the footsteps of BaiShui, who lived a life of pure and lasting goodness.

明不傷察直不近詐  大中至正磊落光明

起心動念青天白日  奉公正己心正感神

See clearly, but do not judge harshly; speak honestly, but stay wise to deceit.

True virtue hides no wrong, speaks no lies, and shines through every deed.

Each thought rises like morning light beneath the open sky.

So serve the good with steady heart, for the pure in spirit stir the divine.

Observe with clarity, but remain patient. Let truth guide your words, yet stay alert so others cannot take advantage of you. Be fair in all things, and let every action reflect what is right. Let each thought rise honest and bright, like a clear day. Serve others with care, and correct yourself with courage. When the heart is pure, the divine surely responds.

端正威儀靜以修身  禹湯罪己桀紂罪人

不信異說行無偏滯  視聽言動合乎中庸

Dignified in form and upright in conduct, the calm heart is where virtue takes root.

Look to Yu and Tang, who owned their faults, not like Jie and Zhou who cast blame.

Reject false teachings, and walk steadily, and without bias, along the true path.

Let every sense and action move in harmony, held by the balance of Tao.

Carry yourself with dignity, and cultivate yourself through inner stillness. Look to Yu and Tang, the wise rulers, who admitted their mistakes and had the courage to change, unlike Jie and Zhou, the oppressive kings, who blamed others and refused to reflect on themselves. Turn away from rigid or extreme teachings, and hold fast to what is true—let nothing lead you astray or slow your steps. In all you see, hear, say, and do, follow the spirit of the Doctrine of the Mean.

吾臨凡界飛鸞顯化  修身闡述貴在知行

誦經明心依經實踐  過勿憚改不有二心

I come to the world of humankind, revealing myself through spirit writing,

to teach the building of good character—knowing truth and living it fully.

Reciting this scripture clears the mind; living it brings true practice.

Correct your mistakes without fear, and hold fast to one honest heart.

I come to the mortal world and make myself known through spirit writing. To grow and become better, you must first know what is right—and then live by it. Recite this scripture to understand the heart, and follow its teachings without fail. When you see that you are wrong, do not be afraid to change. Keep your heart true, pure, and whole.

再論人道綱常倫理  仁孝立基道化家庭

父慈子孝人間美景  孝賢門第澤民德風

Second, let us speak of the steady principles that hold life together.

Kindness and filial love build the root where virtue shapes the family.

Gentle parents and respectful children form a lovely scene.

Homes grounded in love and virtue bring blessings to those around them.

Second, let us now speak of the return to the true way of living—a life built on duty and right conduct, the pillars that support both family and society. At the heart of this way are love and respect, for without them, Tao cannot guide the home. When parents show care and children return respect, the family becomes a picture of harmony—a glimpse of beauty in this world. A home that honors its elders and walks in virtue sends out a wind of moral strength, gently shaping the hearts of those around it.

曾子三省刻竹惕己  黃香枕衾夏涼冬溫

一日三朝文王定省  哭竹生筍孟宗成名

Zengzi carved three reminders into bamboo for self-reflection.

Huang Xiang cared for his parents’ bedding through changing seasons.

King Wen honored his parents with daily visits, three times each day.

Meng Zong’s tears brought bamboo shoots to life—his devotion lives on.

Such virtues were lived out by the wise and the devoted. Zengzi carved three rules of self-reflection into bamboo and followed them each day, guarding his thoughts and deeds with care. Huang Xiang served his father with devotion—cooling the bed in summer and warming it in winter. King Wen visited his parents three times a day to check on their well-being, never failing in his duty as a son. In the cold of winter, Meng Zong wept for his mother, and bamboo shoots broke through the frozen ground. Each act, born of love and respect, stands as a lasting example of true filial love—remembered through the ages.

百孝經文奉為圭臬  老少皆能彩衣娛親

家有父老不立危牆  安身立命抱道奉行

The Scripture of the Hundred Filial Exemplars remains a guide to virtue.

People of all ages honor parents with cheerful clothing to bring them joy.

Those with elders at home should avoid places of danger.

Be steady within, firm in purpose, and sincere in the way of Tao.

The Scripture of a Hundred Filial Exemplars remains a guide for all. Whether young or old, bring joy to your parents—even through small, thoughtful acts, like wearing bright clothes to lift their spirits. When elders are in the home, avoid danger and carry yourself with care. In this way, you find your place in the world and fulfill your purpose—by holding to what is right and living it each day with a steady heart.

愛親不惡敬親不慢  愛敬事親德教百姓

立身行道揚名後世  以顯父母是謂孝終

When love and respect for parents spread outward, hate and pride fade away.

Love and care for your parents deeply, and let your example inspire others.

Refine your character and follow the path of virtue, so your name may endure,

bringing honor to your parents—this is the fullness of filial love.

From this foundation, greater virtues take root. When the love you show your parents reaches out to others, the heart will not hold resentment. When the respect you give at home extends to all people, pride and arrogance will fade. Love and respect that begin in the family grow into a way of life—an example that teaches others how to walk with virtue. Stand firm in what is right, and let your life shine as a light for others to follow. When your name is remembered with honor, your parents are lifted in dignity. This is the fullness of true filial love.

同氣連枝長枕大被  兄友弟恭金友玉昆

顏氏家訓告誠子孫  留德後輩嘉言懿行

Brothers and sisters, born of one blood, should live in peace and care.

The elder shows kindness, the younger gives respect

—a family both gifted and good.

The Yan Family Instructions urge descendants

to live with virtue, speak with grace, and lead by example.

This same spirit extends to siblings, who must never forget their shared blood. They are called to live in harmony and build a bond that is deep and lasting. The older should lead with kindness, and the younger should follow with respect. When they learn to value and care for one another, the home becomes a place filled with grace and virtue. Yan's Family Instructions were written to guide his children and grandchildren, urging each one to live in a way that blesses the next generation—through their words and through their deeds.

婆媳妯娌婦德有四  雞腸鳥肚姑嫂不寧

空中造謠無中生有  離間兄弟非是吉星

Four lasting virtues uphold peace among female in-laws.

But when small grudges grow, harmony is lost.

Rumors built from nothing bring deep division,

and breaking the bond of brothers is never a blessing.

Harmony in the home depends not only on right conduct, but also on how the in-laws treat one another—especially between mother-in-law and daughter-in-law, and among sisters-in-law, where four key virtues must be upheld to keep the peace. When jealousy takes root and hearts grow narrow, conflict soon follows. Spreading rumors without proof or speaking lies as truth is a grave offense. Turning brothers against each other is no blessing—it is a curse that brings sorrow and strife to the whole family.

夫和婦順如鼓琴瑟  陰陽調和相敬如賓

取友必端不交寡信  友朋非親相識貴忠

Spousal harmony sings like drum and zither in perfect tune.

This balance of Yin and Yang grows from mutual respect, like honored guests.

Choose friends who are loyal, and turn away from those who break trust.

Though not of blood, true friendship is built on trust and loyalty.

The same care must guide both marriage and friendship. Husband and wife should each keep their duty—with love, respect, and steady hearts. When their spirits are in balance, they walk in peace and treat one another with honor, like guests welcomed into the same home. In friendship, choose those who are upright, and do not walk with anyone who breaks trust. Though friends are not tied by blood, without loyalty and honesty, no true bond can endure.

損友無情是非不斷  益友利己直諒多聞

智者明辨清流滌世  志同道合愿立道宏

Toxic friends can be cruel and bring endless trouble,

while true friends are honest, forgiving, and wise.

The wise discern right from wrong, like a clear stream that cleanses the world.

Walk with such friends to uphold and spread Tao.

The wrong kind of friend cares little for others and brings trouble wherever they go. But a true friend is honest, kind, and guided by what is right. Their presence helps you grow in truth and goodness. The wise walk with clear hearts, and like a quiet stream, their virtue flows outward—bringing light, peace, and strength to the world around them. Walk beside those who share your heart and follow the same path, and together, let your lives spread the light of Tao.

君仁臣忠國有禎祥  君霸臣奸民不聊生

敦仁秉德以化暴戾  修禮陳義君臣一心

With a kind ruler and loyal ministers, the nation enjoys peace and blessings.

But under a cruel ruler and corrupt ministers, the people suffer.

Kindness and virtue can turn violence into calm.

When etiquette and moral principles are upheld, ruler and ministers move as one.

This spirit of unity must reach even the highest places—for when the ruler is fair and the ministers are loyal, the path ahead is filled with blessing. But when the ruler grows harsh and unjust, and the officials become corrupt, the people are left to suffer. Yet even a heart hardened by cruelty and anger can be softened by true virtue and steady compassion. When respect is upheld and truth is clearly spoken, the ruler and ministers stand as one—and their unity makes the land strong and secure.

德載百姓心繫萬民  清正廉明一路福星

晏子春秋其心明鑑  屈原撣塵不污德品

Let noble virtue uplift the people, and always keep their well-being in heart.

In ancient times, upright and honest officials were praised as stars of blessing.

The Yanzi Chunqiu speaks of a heart like a clear mirror, reflecting truth.

In hardship, Qu Yuan stayed pure—his virtue untouched by dust.

The virtue of those in power lifts the people and gives them strength, for true leaders always keep the people’s well-being close to heart. To lead with wisdom and honor, one must be pure in heart, upright in action, free from greed, and clear in thought. Xianyu Shen of the Song dynasty lived by these principles—he stood firm against corruption and worked for the good of the people. The Yanzi Chunqiu tells of Yan Ying, whose heart was like a polished mirror, reflecting truth and justice without flaw. In that same spirit, Qu Yuan brushed the dust of the world from his hat and robe before dressing, guarding his virtue and standing firm in what was right.

枕戈待旦精進不懈  犯顏直諫唐有魏徵

今時古月今月古人  舉世溷濁唯我不能

Resting on weapons and staying ready shows true diligence.

In the Tang dynasty, Wei Zheng dared to correct the emperor.

The moon we see is the same moon the ancients once saw.

Though the world sinks into chaos, I alone must not follow.

Zuo Ti and Liu Kun of the Jin dynasty rested their heads on weapons and rose at dawn to train with their swords—always ready to defend the nation. In the Tang dynasty, Wei Zheng spoke the truth with courage, even when the emperor did not wish to hear it—yet his loyalty never wavered. Though time passes, the moon remains the same, shining on us now as it once shone on those before. Hold this vow in your heart: even if the world falls into confusion, I will not turn from the path of truth.

三論忠義氣貫長虹  撼動山河凜冽忠心

堅如金剛牢不可破  無堅不摧橫掃萬軍

Third, let us speak of a loyal, just spirit—so fierce it soars beyond the heavens.

This noble heart carries a power strong enough to shake the earth.

Its will is like diamond—unyielding, firm, and unbreakable.

Nothing can stop it, for it overcomes all that stands in its path.

Third, let us speak of the strength of loyalty and righteousness—a power so great it pierces rainbows and reaches Heaven. A loyal heart—fierce, steady, and true—holds the strength to move a nation. Like diamond, it bends to nothing and never breaks. Born from one’s true nature, this power shatters all barriers and sweeps away even the mightiest of armies.

日月昭昭乾坤朗朗  纖塵不玷烈火純精

天地憑誰千古常在  星斗唯耳萬世長存

With bright virtue and just rule, peace spreads across the land.

Purity, untouched by wrong, grows ever clearer—refined toward perfection.

Why do Heaven and Earth endure?

Only the stars remain, watching in silence through the generations.

When these virtues shine bright and clear like the sun and moon, and governance is upright and just, peace spreads across the land, and all under Heaven dwell in harmony. Not even a speck of dust can stain such purity. Like diamond, they are forged in fire beyond measure. Beneath Heaven and across the Earth, what truly endures? Perhaps only the stars and galaxies remain—silent and unshaken, bearing witness to the strength of righteousness and the lasting power of devotion.

昔有孔聖周遊列國  推道訓俗天下啟蒙

仁義正道萬物皆應  十六字訣守乎一誠

Confucius once walked through many states,

teaching the way of right living and guiding hearts toward wisdom and virtue.

Walk in benevolence and righteousness, and all things will respond in kind.

This is the heart of the Sixteen-Word Principle: a sincere and undivided heart.

With that understanding, Confucius walked the land—speaking to rulers and guiding the people, even though he knew his words might be turned away. Still, he brought Tao to light, hoping to correct their ways and open their hearts to the truth. When kindness and righteousness lead the way, all things in nature respond, and peace follows. This harmony begins with living the sixteen-word guiding principle, held with a heart that is pure and sincere.

孟子信善四端之發  心別義利義生大公

其為氣也配義與道  至大至剛至妙至靈

Mencius taught that human nature is good, seen in four beginnings of the heart. When the heart knows right from selfishness, fairness arise through righteousness. Its energy moves with what is right and flows in harmony with Tao

—a force beyond words, great and strong, subtle and full of light.

To carry this forward, Mencius taught that our true nature is kind and called each person to grow the four beginnings of the heart: compassion, moral shame, respect, and the knowing of right from wrong—truths planted deep within us. When the heart clearly sees the difference between what is right and what is selfish, righteousness begins to rise and brings forth lasting good. From this, a spirit of integrity is formed—standing with justice and guided by truth. In time, it becomes vast in heart, strong in will, deep in wonder, and full of light.

蘇武困胡歷十九載  漢節手握心在朝庭

威脅利誘不辱使命  飲雪吞氈不滅忠心

Su Wu was held captive and suffered in enemy lands for nineteen years.

Though far from home, he carried the Han staff with a heart loyal to his country.

He stood firm through threats and bribes, never dishonoring his mission.

Even living on snow and felt, his loyalty never faded.

Su Wu is a lasting example of true loyalty. Though he lived in exile for nineteen years, his heart remained unchanged. With the Han staff in his hand, his thoughts stayed with his homeland. No threat could shake him, and no reward could turn him—he held to his duty until the very end. Even as he drank snow and chewed felt to survive, his loyal heart stood firm and unshaken.

諸葛孔明殫精竭慮  鞠躬盡瘁只求全忠

忠臣義守佞臣利取  何來何去何必相爭

Zhuge Kongming gave all his strength and wisdom.

With care and respect, he served faithfully, seeking only to do his duty.

The loyal serve with honor; the corrupt seek only personal gain.

But what is taken unfairly is lost the same way

—so what is truly worth the fight?

ZhuGe KongMing gave his whole heart and mind to service. He never rested, never turned away. His life was shaped by duty, and his only purpose was to remain loyal until the very end. The loyal hold fast to what is right; the corrupt chase after gain. But whatever is taken without honor will be lost in the same way. In the end, we must ask—what is truly worth fighting for?

楊家將士一門忠烈  精兵猛將條條忠魂

岳武穆將精忠報國  十二金牌何懼死生

The Yang family—generations of loyal warriors, stood strong in battle.

Skilled fighters and sharp generals, each one remained firm in duty.

In that same spirit, Yue Fei was a true general, loyal to the end.

What are twelve royal summons to one who does not fear life or death?

The Yang family was a house of heroes—loyal in heart and fearless in battle. Their well-trained soldiers and elite generals stood with honor and strength, never turning away from danger. Another shining example is General Yue Fei, whose loyalty ran deep. He gave his life for his country without regret. What are twelve royal orders—even if they lead to death—to a heart that does not fear sacrifice?

盪氣迴腸家國天下  志節參天滿江紅中

宋末三傑錚錚傲骨  山河破碎人焉苟存

It was a soul-stirring call—to stand for home, country, and all under Heaven.

His noble will, vast as the sky, lives on in the song Man Jiang Hong.

In the Song’s final days, three heroes rose—unyielding and true.

If the nation was lost, how could they live without shame?

This spirit stirs the soul and calls one to rise in service to both family and country. It lives in the poem The River Runs Red, where honor and courage rise above all else. When the Song dynasty fell, three heroes stood unshaken and refused to bow. They chose death over surrender, for what worth is life if the nation has already fallen?

成仁取義泣血正氣  歌詠千載天祥人品

張巡包拯何人不是  在世忠義死後留名

To die for what is right—such deep integrity stirs the heart to tears.

For a thousand years, Wen Tianxiang’s virtue has lived on in songs of praise.

And Zhang Xun and Bao Zheng - Who does not

live on in name, if they stood firm in loyalty and righteousness?

They gave their lives for what is right—their spirit so true it moves hearts to weep blood. For generations, Wen Tianxiang has been remembered for his loyal heart and steadfast strength. And Zhang Xun, the loyal general, and Bao Zheng, the just judge—who lives with loyalty and righteousness and is not honored after death?

路祖金公合仝印證  賴何以是獨忠義心

弓長子系八卦爐會  大開普渡芸芸眾生

Patriarch Lu—Grandmaster Jin Gong—bore the words “He” and “Tong,”

a sign Heaven had chosen him.

What gave him such strength? Only a heart rooted in devotion and duty.

At the Bagua Furnace, Patriarch Gōng Zhǎng and Matriarch Zǐ Xì received Heaven’s command—

to carry out the mission of delivering all sentient beings.

Patriarch Lu, also known as Grandmaster Jin Gong, was confirmed with the words he tong in his hands—a seal of unity and Heaven’s trust. Only a heart steadfast in loyalty and moral responsibility can carry such a sacred task. At the Bagua Furnace meeting, Patriarch Gōng Zhǎng and Matriarch Zǐ Xì received the mandate of Heaven. Joined in purpose, they were entrusted with the divine duty to lead the great deliverance of all beings.

大考大驗大愿大行  尊師重道忠義雙承

歷代聖賢仙真菩薩  後人仰瞻忠義精神

Great trials prove true strength, and profound vows give rise to noble deeds.

Only a devoted heart can honor the Teacher’s words and follow Heaven’s will.

The wise and virtuous lived by this truth

—a spirit of loyalty and righteousness, admired by all who came after.

Great trials bring out true strength, and deep vows give rise to noble deeds. Those who honor their teachers and walk the path of truth carry both faithfulness and moral responsibility wherever they go. Throughout the ages, saints, sages, buddhas, and bodhisattvas have walked in honor, and those who follow still look up to their faithful hearts and unwavering sense of righteousness.

人無忠義如牆邊草 見風轉舵使人看輕

無義失信無廉失恥 無信不威無恥失人

Without loyalty, one drifts like grass by the wall

—swayed by every wind, stripped of honor.

Without righteousness, trust fades; without honesty, moral shame disappears.

And when trust is lost, so is respect. When moral shame is gone, people turn away.

A person without loyalty is like grass by a wall—easily swayed, without strength or root. Those who shift with every wind soon lose the respect of others. Without righteousness, trust is lost, for actions without principle cannot be relied on. Without integrity, there is no shame in wrongdoing—and where there is no moral shame, respect fades. When trust is broken, respect disappears, and no one will listen. And when moral shame is gone, so are all limits—leaving behind a person whom others can no longer follow or believe in.

大節不踰於義殆盡 無筠則溷無度則昏

無倫理者無修身者 無忠義者無道德根

Some principles must never be crossed—held fast by pure righteousness.

Without integrity, actions have no guide; without ethics, right and wrong fade.

Ethics are the root of self-cultivation—without them, true growth is impossible.

And without loyalty and righteousness, the foundation of moral life falls apart.

In times of great trial, the noble stay true to what is right, giving their strength to duty and shaping character through virtue. Yet without restraint—like the skin that guards bamboo—even the good within can be lost. When moral standards are absent, confusion and disorder take hold. A person without ethics cannot begin true self-cultivation, for ethics are the root of growth and strength. Without loyalty and righteousness, there is no foundation for virtue. These two are the core of being good and doing what is right. Without them, one is like a tree without roots—unable to stand or endure.

真修道子修己嚴律 絲毫不苟念發言行

是切或磋砥礪琢磨 四毒八邪蕩然無存

True cultivators hold to high moral standards and discipline themselves with care.

They watch their thoughts, words, and actions closely.

Through learning together, guiding and correcting one another, virtue grows.

As the heart is refined, the four poisons and eight evils vanish, leaving it pure.

A true cultivator of Tao keeps strict discipline in every thought, word, and action. Help one another grow in wisdom and virtue, like jade polished to shine—so that character may rise and the will grow strong. When a person cultivates with sincerity and firmly disciplines themselves, the four inner poisons—greed, anger, ignorance, and doubt—and the eight forms of deviance—wrong views, intentions, speech, and actions—are cleared away completely, leaving the heart pure.

窮不失義達不離道 忠貞廉節立德立品

真諦妙理金筆垂示 誥誡世人一部真經

In hardship, stay righteous; in success, stay grounded in principle.

Loyalty, integrity, and honor form the foundation of true virtue and strong character. The golden pen reveals deep truths and wise principles,

written in a lasting scripture that teaches and warns all humankind.

Never lose the sense of righteousness in hardship, and never turn from moral principles in success. A person who holds fast to loyalty, integrity, self-discipline, and high moral character can build true virtue and become a model for others. The profound truths of Heaven are revealed through the golden brush of spirit writing—gathered into a sacred scripture to awaken hearts, guide people toward goodness, and help them understand Heaven's Way.

伏魔真經日日持誦 主敬存誠必有感應

虔心跪拜持念觀心 忠義相隨日夜遵行

Recite the Enduring Scripture of Subduing Evil daily

with reverence and sincerity, and Heaven will respond.

Kneel in humility, keep your thoughts steady, and guard your mind.

Let loyalty and righteousness guide you—living by them day and night.

Sincerely reciting the Scripture of Subduing Evil each day—with a heart full of reverence and true sincerity—will surely move Heaven and Earth, bringing divine response and protection. As you kneel and recite, look inward and examine your thoughts. Let loyalty and righteousness remain by your side. Day and night, hold fast to these moral principles and practice them in daily life. This is not only a path of self-cultivation, but a steadfast devotion to virtue itself.

心寬體胖精氣神聚 無有半點虧欠存心

妖自不生魔當不入 太和元氣七彩祥雲

An open mind and a healthy body bring spirit and energy into balance.

When the heart is pure and free from fault,

evil cannot rise, and demons cannot enter.

In this harmony, life energy shines like seven-colored clouds of blessing.

When the heart is calm and open, the body grows strong. A peaceful mind steadies emotions, allowing essence, energy, and spirit to gather—filling a person with life and strength. If one holds not even a single thought of wronging others or falling short before Heaven and Earth, the heart remains upright and free of guilt. With pure thoughts and right actions, evil has no place to enter. When Heaven and Earth are in harmony, life energy fills the world. From this balance, colorful clouds appear—signs of peace, goodness, and the harmony of all things.

逢凶化吉遇災呈祥 遵經效行轉運改命

經傳千秋緣者機握 誦唸行久美大聖神

Misfortune can turn to safety, and blessings can come even in times of hardship.

Live by this scripture to change your fate and renew your life.

This sacred text endures—do not waste the chance to walk its path.

With steady reading and practice, the spirit grows strong, pure, and beautiful.

When facing danger or hardship, those who practice sincerely, do good, and follow the right path can turn bad luck into blessings. Trouble can become a new beginning. By following this scripture and living by its teachings, one can change their fate and walk a better path. This sacred text will be passed down for generations. Those who truly connect with it and follow with a sincere heart will receive guidance and blessing. With steady reading and practice, the heart becomes pure, character grows strong, and the spirit is lifted and protected.

伏魔真經虔誦至此 浩然正氣充塞滿盈

唯獨吾氣義氣精忠 唯獨吾行成就大功

With deep reverence, chant the Enduring Scripture of Subduing Evil to this point,

letting each word send forth upright energy that spreads far and wide.

This power takes root only when the spirit holds fast to righteousness and loyalty.

Only then can your deeds bring forth lasting good.

Sincerely reciting the Enduring Scripture of Subduing Evil up to this point allows upright energy to spread in all directions, filling the world with goodness. Among all the traits a person can have, the most valuable are a strong sense of right and wrong and loyal devotion. Only by living out these two can one truly follow Heaven’s will and walk the path of truth. And only by acting with such spirit and virtue can one achieve great things and build a life of true moral worth.

一心貫徹以心印心 九六乾坤彼岸同登 欽哉勿忽 

So follow through with full devotion, and let your heart reflect the noble heart—

that all under Heaven may rise as one toward the shore of enlightenment.

Take this scripture to heart; do not cast it aside.

With a sincere and focused heart, one follows the path of cultivation and helps pass it on—using one’s own heart to awaken the hearts of others. When this is done, all beings may cross together to the far shore, reaching freedom, awakening, and true fulfillment. This is a sacred truth and teaching—worthy of deep respect and not to be taken lightly.

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I have used these sources to help me with the translation: lecture series 1, lecture 2, and lecture series 3.

If you wish to read along.

Note: This draft is a humble attempt at the translation. May the merit of this work be dedicated to those suffering in the realm of hungry ghosts.