Abstract
An analysis of the structure, content, and function of the Zhenwen in the Announcement (suqi) ritual shows that its purpose is to enact a feudal-like “contract” with the cosmic powers, spiritual officials, and the Holy-Emperors of the five directions. The ritual provides an opportunity for the priestʹs mystical union with the Dao. The Zhenwen offers a strong sense of security to the community that sponsors a Festival of Renewal (jiao) in which the five Zhenwen are implanted in the universe. Because the Zhenwen contacts and “contracts” the sovereign deities of the five directions and their various subordinates, such as the controllers of the charts and registers, this ensures that the proper functioning of the universe continues, and it prevents natural disaster or untimely death. Thus, the Zhenwen fulfills an important role in religious Daoism in that it spiritualizes both the Daoist priest in mystical union and the religious community in securing harmony. The Lingbao zhenwen plays a pivotal function in the liturgy.
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