Wow, our emperor is truly awe-inspiring and benevolent! His radiance surpasses the sun, moon, and stars, and even the heavens and earth must obey his commands! He inherits the excellent qualities of past emperors, comparable to the Yellow Emperor. When his imperial edict is issued, barbarians from all corners must obey without question.
Next, all the ministers are neatly dressed, waiting for the emperor to hold court. As the emperor arrives, everyone eagerly steps forward to greet him. The emperor indulges in a lavish banquet and listens to the beautiful "Shao" music—it's truly a sight to behold! The emperor is pleased, and his virtues are celebrated far and wide.
The court session officially begins, with all the ministers sitting in their designated positions. Everyone raises their cups in harmony; the atmosphere is both harmonious and solemn. The emperor carries himself with dignity while being gentle, always maintaining a humble attitude.
The song of the Nine Achievements resounds, and the glory of the prosperous six dynasties seems to come alive again. The emperor’s benevolence spreads across the realm; his achievements will forever be sung in poetry. The world is peaceful, all things flourish—this flourishing scene is a testament to the emperor's accumulated virtues!
(The music plays: "Yu Shuo Song" is played in the Four Compartments, "Jiang Jiang Song" is played after the emperor appears, and "Yu Shuo" and "Jiang Jiang" are played again after the emperor changes attire. The Huang Zhong and Tai Cu compartments play "Fa Zhang" and "Nine Achievements.")
The Great Song Dynasty is truly magnificent! Auspicious omens abound; we carry forward the legacy of the Han and the brilliance of the Tang. The emperor is both virtuous and talented, with outstanding accomplishments; his radiance shines in all directions like the stars in the sky! The emperor is appointed by heaven, a lucky star bestowed upon us by the heavens! He established the great capital of the Song Dynasty, casting his light across the entire realm!
(The music plays: Guxi Xiang plays.)
Offering longevity wine, wishing His Majesty a long and prosperous life! His Majesty's grace spreads across heaven and earth, his virtues shine like the sun, moon, and stars!
(The music begins: the sound of the Huangzhong bell.)
The Great Song Dynasty flourishes, His Majesty's virtue influences the world, bringing peace and prosperity to the nation. Once the world is stable, all nations come to pay tribute and worship His Majesty. The grand court assembly, filled with splendid rituals and music, is both solemn and majestic.
Behold the rushing rivers, all converging in homage to His Majesty, flowing into the sea. Gifts from across the land flow in continuously, and the ministers display utmost respect and caution. His Majesty leads by example, with the people following suit, naturally fostering peace and unity in the realm.
Our Emperor is a divine sage sent from heaven to save us! He has set a good example from the beginning, bringing us auspiciousness and happiness! May His Majesty last as long as the sky and radiate like the sun! May this prosperous scene continue forever, with His rule lasting for eternity!
(Different instruments play in front of the palace.)
As the sun rises, its brilliant rays illuminate all. In the third year of Jiaqing, rituals and music flourish, and the nation is peaceful and prosperous. At the beginning of the new year, rules and regulations are renewed, and subjects from all over the world come to congratulate. The palace, both inside and out, is filled with tranquility, as civil and military officials gather to witness this grand occasion, with a solemn and grand atmosphere; the music resounds like thunder, and the etiquette is impeccably observed. Everyone is immersed in this festive and peaceful atmosphere, sharing this era of peace and prosperity.
Five varieties of jade and three types of silk have been presented. Nobles play music in the magnificent palace to pay homage to the Empress. Her Majesty graciously receives the tributes, and the people of all nations rejoice. This is truly a harmonious scene between the sovereign and his subjects! The five flags are flying high, the people of the four counties are celebrating, the music continues, and the grandeur is unparalleled; the royal dignity and auspiciousness fill the entire world.
The country's politics are transparent, in harmony with Yin and Yang; the ruler is kind, ushering in peace to the world. Auspicious signs frequently emerge, with intertwined branches and grains in harmony, showing the blessings of heaven upon the new emperor, indicating the prosperity of the country.
The emperor remembers the people in remote areas, comforting them. Under the protection of heaven, people from all corners return to their homes, bringing peace to the world. The country's strength is increasing day by day, and the emperor's benevolence radiates across the land, allowing people to live and work in peace and prosperity.
The emperor governs wisely, showing kindness and virtue, following the divine will, emulating the previous emperors, adapting to the changes of the seasons, and praying devoutly. The emperor's grace is vast, extending throughout the realm, as nations come to pay their respects, bringing peace to the world.
The emperor's wise rule has brought prosperity to the country, with grand ceremonies and foreign dignitaries coming to pay tribute. The subjects wear splendid attire and come to pay their respects; the emperor's benevolence extends throughout the realm, with education deeply ingrained in people's hearts, and the country's strength growing day by day.
At the beginning of the new year, messengers from all directions come to pay their respects, bringing treasures and paying homage to the empress, playing musical instruments, observing the rituals, and praising the emperor's virtues, immersed in the splendor of a prosperous and peaceful era.
The emperor is wise and martial, with noble virtues, governing the country in an orderly manner, implementing various systems, and maintaining social order. The emperor's grace is vast, bringing peace to the world, with royal authority echoing far and wide, performing sacrifices to the deities, praying for the prosperity of the country, and the eternal stability of the nation.
Speaking of this grand ceremony, there are numerous protocols! Look, the gold and stone musical instruments are neatly arranged, and the feather ornaments are beautifully decorated. Music ranging from majestic tunes like "Wu" and "Huo" to peaceful tunes like "Xianchi" is played; songs like "Nanfeng" are sung, with the dances perfectly synchronized. Both civil and military achievements are flourishing, with praises resonating in harmonious waves.
This prosperous era is due to the emperor's benevolent rule, his deep virtue and benevolence, governing the realm, and the people living in peace and contentment. He promotes the virtue of courtesy and has changed the social atmosphere, which is destined to endure. Songs extol the beauty of this prosperous era and celebrate the success of this ceremony, praising the emperor's achievements, which will be forever remembered. The ten songs, performed by the Huang Zhong and Tai Cu ensembles, include the songs *Morning Xi*, *Body to Harmony*, *Royal Way*, *Kai Yuan Chen*, and *Courtesy* in the Huang Zhong section, and *Five Jades*, *Remembering the Wilderness Descendants*, *Imperial Elegance*, *Only Eternal Beginning*, and *Pure Royal Way* in the Tai Cu section. Oh, what a splendid scene! It is as if the heavenly emperor were surveying the mortal realm! The sunlight shines on the earth, while the ceremonies are solemn and dignified. The songs celebrate the emperor's great achievements, and the dances stem from his profound virtues. A variety of musical instruments are elegantly arranged throughout the palace, including the se and qin zithers. The harmonious music from various instruments and the ancient melody of *Xiao Shao* music are perfectly reproduced. Both the music and dance express the idea of harmony and unity, spreading the emperor's virtues and consolidating the royal foundation in harmony with the heavens and earth. His virtues influence the world, bringing harmony and natural harmony, like clouds in the sky, adding brilliance to the nation. The people live in peace and harmony, reminiscent of the times of Yao and Shun. As *Shao* music is played, this prosperous era will continue forever. These are the lyrics of the *Pre-Dance Song* from the Jin Dynasty's *Zheng De Dance*, accompanied by Rui Bin Xiang instruments.
This grand celebration is a blessing from heaven granted to the emperor, a result of his virtuous deeds. His benevolent rule has brought peace and stability from all corners. Like a dragon soaring through the skies, his virtues inspire all nations. The emperor is both wise and strong, managing court affairs with composure and insight. With few words, he bestows blessings on everyone. He reports his achievements to heaven, etching his contributions into history. He is humble and kind, in tune with the will of heaven, establishing systems to ensure the stability and unity of the country. Foreign tribes submit, and the borders enjoy peace. The emperor presides over the court, ruling his people. Then, he performs the "Dàyù" dance, as if united with the divine. This prosperous era will endure forever, leaving an everlasting legacy. These are the lyrics to the "Hòuwǔgē" song. (The "Dàyù" dance from the Jin Dynasty, accompanied by Rui Bin's musical instruments.)
Next are the lyrics of the "Sùchéng Music" performed by the guests, in two chapters:
The sacrificial ceremony is indeed magnificent! The filial piety of our ancestors has been handed down to us, and we hold the late emperor in the highest regard. The grand sacrificial event envelops the entire nation in a celebratory atmosphere. The officiants carry out the ceremony in an orderly fashion. The solemn and majestic scene of the sacrifice is adorned with precious offerings throughout the courtyard. Guests gather in reverence, with only the soft murmurs of prayers filling the air. The sacrificial vessels have been prepared in advance; everything is in place, just waiting for the ceremony to begin. Facing the spirit tablet of the late emperor, we pray earnestly for the emperor's boundless grace.
The ritual of sacrifice is solemn and reverent, with everyone focused and their movements precise. The procession for the sacrifice is orderly, and the atmosphere is dignified. The sacrificial site is beautifully arranged, showing respect for the late emperor in every detail. The tablet honoring the late emperor is elevated on a high altar, surrounded by various offerings. At night, we devoutly await the dawn, lined up to welcome the rising sun. At dawn, sunlight bathes the earth, everything looking especially serene. This sacrifice is offered in prayer for national prosperity, stability, enduring strength, and the lasting glory of the emperor's legacy.
Next are the lyrics of the "Offering Sacrificial Animals" song:
> With pure offerings and deep filial piety, we honor the spirit. We respectfully present the grains and sacrificial animals. The horses and cattle are well-fed and plentiful. To uphold ancestral traditions and demonstrate our reverence for the emperor's spirit. The music of Xiao and Fang resonates, with the fire of Hua being passed down. The spirits observe and approve, praising the gentle sacrifices.
These lyrics express our deep reverence for the late emperor, as well as our sincere devotion in conducting the sacrifice, with abundant offerings and a grand ceremony, hoping that the late emperor can feel our filial piety.
Next are the lyrics of the "Praising the Offerings" song:
> Starting the sacred ceremony, all rituals are carried out. The six rites are adorned with elegance, the nine officials follow the order. The sacrificial animals are gentle, the rituals are conducted with solemnity. With respect and purity, we serve the divine. Adding the sacrificial vessels, the offerings are abundant. The movements are graceful, the sounds are like flowing gold. The atmosphere is solemn, the scene is dignified. With pure sincerity at dusk and dignified attire at dawn. The sacred spirits are pleased, blessing our emperor. In harmony across the four directions, may the myriad nations enjoy peace. Forever celebrating filial piety, may it be graciously received. The officials praise in order, with solemn and respectful demeanor.
These lyrics describe the grandeur of the sacrificial ceremony and the participants' devout attitude, praying for the late emperor to bless the prosperity and peace of the nation.
These are the lyrics for the offering of sacrificial animals.
Next are the lyrics of the "Shao Xia Music" played during the welcoming of the gods:
The palace is dark, the hall is faintly lit. The bright moonlight glimmers, illuminating the jade. The divine essence is palpable, the jade hall exudes solemnity and fragrance. The round flames flicker in the evening, while the square waters glisten in the morning. The golden branches droop gracefully from the trees, and the emerald lanterns stand watch in the courtyard. The tranquil waves settle under the night sky, while the Hua Han flows serenely. The respectful rites commence early, and the devout heart is filled with reverence. We look up to the imperial spirit, bowing in hopes of peace and prosperity.
This song lyric depicts the solemn and sacred scene of the sacrificial site, expressing admiration and prayers for the late emperor. Finally, when the emperor enters the northern gate of the temple, the lyrics of "Yong Zhi Le" are played: (The lyrics of "Yong Zhi Le" are missing here and cannot be translated.)
During the Ming Dynasty, the compassionate visage of the Empress Dowager is held in reverence. The magnificent procession glides along the Han River, casting reflections on its surface. The night is tranquil and serene, while the court thrives. Golden sunlight bathes the scene, and the jade-hued breeze carries the melody of "Shao" music. The sacrificial ceremony follows ancient rituals, solemnly worshiping the ancestors.
The Grand Priest performed two musical verses at the sacrificial site: "The emperor's presence graces the sacrifice on this auspicious day. The nine gates stand open, as the four spirits watch over the sacrificial site. The music is played solemnly, and the attendants stand in orderly formation. The spirits graciously accept the offerings, which are filled with fragrance. The jade ornaments are meticulously arranged, and the gui vessels are prominently displayed. The officials meticulously select the rituals, ensuring everything is perfectly organized."
"The grand ceremony of worship and reverence, expressing deep respect and filial devotion. The rituals are flawless, with no errors whatsoever. The essence of the offerings is embodied in the libation, sincerely touching the heavens. The songs and music resonate through heaven and earth, the emperor's filial devotion resonates through heaven and earth, sincere and respectful, reaching the heavenly court.
Next, in the shrine of Empress Zhang, the music and dance 'Zhang De Kai Rong' were performed, with melodious singing:
"Profound and auspicious, praising the holy empress. Carrying the emblem of virtue, spreading the light of reverence. The auspicious signs entwine, adorning the praises. Forever belonging to the glory, connecting the flourishing mandate."
Then, in the shrine of Empress Zhao, the music and dance 'Zhao De Kai Rong', composed by the Ming Emperor, were performed, with songs of praise:
"Manifesting the spirit, weaving the winds of ritual. Embracing the brilliance, ascending the purple dome. Shaping the heavens and earth, martializing the celestial palace. Soaring with golden fragrance, inscribing the virtues and appearances."
Following that, in the shrine of Empress Xuan, the music and dance 'Xuan De Kai Rong', composed by the Ming Emperor, were performed, with songs filled with reverence:
"The celestial axis shines, the earthly axis glows. Connecting the light of the world, shining with the auspicious mechanism. Perfuming the central universe, intertwining the upper realms. Singing the praises of virtues, transmitting the emblems of gold."
The emperor returned to the east wall, received the blessing wine, and played the dance of music 'Jia Shi', with songs expressing the scene of a prosperous era:
"Offering auspiciousness, flourishing in the time of blessing. The imperial sage receives the blessings, the emperor's work embodies tranquility. Residing at the peak of fortune, the dwelling of virtue at the heart of the empire. Clear and bright in the four directions, extending the essence across the eight realms. Enlightening the seas with benevolence, shining throughout the universe. The spiritual celebration entwines the world's blessings, the grandeur is boundless."
Finally, during the farewell to the spirits, the music 'Zhao Xia' was performed, consisting of two movements."
When it comes to the ceremony of filial piety, the preparations were meticulously prepared, grand, and lavish! Even the deities were so pleased that they lingered, and everywhere was filled with a festive and harmonious atmosphere. The imperial procession, with its majestic momentum, seemed as if it could soar into the heavens! The entire realm seemed to be shrouded by this grand scene, with an atmosphere of solemnity and dignity everywhere. This education in filial piety truly cultivates the heart and guides people's conduct. The Emperor's deep and enduring longing for the late Emperor’s spirit is truly profound! You see, even precious feathered garments and magnificent trees typically reserved for special occasions were used, showing the Emperor's respect for his ancestors. The imperial procession slowly proceeded, with the magnificent and sacred imperial carriage, creating a scene never before seen! The whole country was immersed in a festive and harmonious atmosphere.
Then, the Emperor entered the side hall and began the performance of "Xiucheng," with the following lyrics:
Offering the libation, presenting the auspicious vessels. Feasting with sincerity, performing the rites of Zhou and music. The blessings are concluded, the sequence is in order. The ceremonial procession moves slowly, the imperial turn around the solemn hall. The divine ceremony resides in the scenery, the resplendent Han pavilion. The Eight Spirits guard the case, the Three Altars open the way. The emerald canopy shines brightly, the brilliance radiates throughout the palace. The jade reins are still, the golden carriage holds the music. The ritual embodies sincerity and filial respect, the heart is filled with solemn reverence. Reflecting on the imperial legacy, the grace of the late Emperor, we will always remember in our hearts. Bestowing blessings that illuminate all corners, shining brightly in all directions. Looking up to the imperial emblem, looking down on all living beings.
The meaning of these lyrics is: Delicious food and fine wine have been laid out, and the sacrificial offerings are fully prepared. With sincere offerings and complete rituals, music fills the air. Once the blessings are completed, the ceremony draws to a close. The emperor's carriage slowly returns to the palace, as if the spirits pause to observe, creating a sense of peace throughout the realm. Deities from all directions stand guard, and even the Three Officials yield. The emerald canopy glistens, casting a radiant glow, and the emperor’s dignity is unmatched. The jade whip comes to a stop, and the golden carriage halts, paying tribute to the late emperor. This grand sacrificial ceremony reflects the emperor's profound sincerity and filial devotion and conveys deep respect and remembrance for the late emperor. We pray for divine blessings, national prosperity, and the welfare of our citizens.
