Drinking the wine of longevity, boundless joy! The Great Jin Dynasty is thriving, may the emperor's life be boundless!
- This is a poem used by the nobles at the emperor's birthday banquet.
The emperor is majestic and solemn, with envoys from all nations. In the court, civil and military officials are gathered, each one a talent! The emperor's grace is widely spread throughout the world, governing the country with wisdom. Today, a banquet is held to celebrate, with guests filling the hall. Banners waving, music resounding, officials bowing, ceremonies grand, the sounds of gold and jade resound in the air.
The banquet begins, with all the rituals and music perfectly arranged, and guests are delighted. Wishing the emperor a long life and the country a bright future! Vassals come to pay their respects, creating a magnificent scene. Everyone toasts and presents gifts, with great ceremony. The tables are filled with sumptuous dishes, and wine flows freely. Everyone enjoys themselves to the fullest, sharing in blessings and happiness.
Wonderful! The world is peaceful, society is pure, the music of "Xiao Shao" plays, symbolizing a nation at peace. Year after year of abundant harvests, peace throughout the land, truly a prosperous era! Endless joy! The emperor is wise and martial, the ministers are loyal, bringing forth sweet rain and spreading integrity.
Auspicious signs appear frequently, remarkably auspicious. Qilin appears, phoenix flies, sweet springs flow forth, nourishing the land, golden rice fills the granaries, heaven bestows countless blessings, blessing the emperor with boundless longevity! The emperor inherits the throne, ruling over all nations, receiving the mandate of heaven, possessing saintly virtues. Four generations together, creating a great foundation, with achievements in both literature and martial prowess, outstanding virtues, establishing the Jin Dynasty, ensuring the eternal stability of the country.
During the Taishi era, the country was founded, the phoenix and dragon appeared together, symbolizing the prosperity of the royal family for generations to come. Ruling over vast territories, enlightening the people. The history books gleam, with stone tablets as proof. The emperor's virtues are magnificent, moral values thrive, grace spreads across the four seas, and his reputation is far-reaching. The descendants prosper and flourish, shining brightly, destined for glory and everlasting renown.
The emperor rules the world, following the will of heaven and the hearts of the people. With three generations living under one roof, honoring their ancestors, a solid foundation was established during the Taishi period. The emperor's achievements shine like the sun and moon, his blessings flow like the changing seasons. The world is peaceful, the people live happily, truly a peaceful and prosperous era!
Heaven has destined a wise and benevolent monarch to appear, just like the three emperors and five sovereigns, their virtues magnificent! They govern the country as if orchestrating the stars in the sky, their radiance shining over the entire universe. The cycles of the four seasons seem as if orchestrated by divine beings, the world is peaceful, filled with righteousness, aiding the people and nurturing all things, much like an artisan shapes clay, blessings spread throughout the world. Those wise and capable individuals, each handsome and virtuous, have their virtues passed down through generations, forever remembered.
"At the Qing Temple, the grand ceremony unfolds as the emperor opens the four gates. The emperor opens the four gates, all matters are comprehensively managed." What a solemn grand ceremony! The emperor handles state affairs personally, diligent in governance and deeply caring for the people. Even during rest, he always thinks of the people's suffering, struggling with hunger and sleeplessness. After the ceremony, everyone is happy.
It is said that this emperor ascended Kunlun Mountain and then Zengcheng, riding a flying dragon, ascending to the sky, adorned with a crown crafted from the sun, moon, and stars, adorned with five-star ornaments, wearing garments woven from rainbows and comets, bathed in auspicious clouds, overlooking the world, touring the heavenly court. He follows the laws of heaven and earth, harmonizing yin and yang, arranging the four seasons, shining the three lights, spreading righteousness and ensuring the people live in happiness, ushering in a prosperous era while displaying great dignity, embracing all the people and welcoming dignitaries from every corner, hosting grand banquets at Changhe Palace and relishing supreme honor at Ziwei Palace.
He erected five flags, accompanied by bells and chimes, with officials from four counties lined up, performing pieces like "Shao" and "Wu." The resonant sounds of bells and stone filled the air, banners waving, the Eight Dances swaying gracefully, chanting the refined odes from the "Book of Songs," in harmony with the music, everyone celebrating together, praising the wise monarch.
His achievements are like a mighty, sweeping breeze that reaches every corner of the world; he leads many heroes and brave men, expanding the realm, subduing the barbarians. His merits shine brilliantly, rivaling those of sages, surpassing all previous kings. His accomplishments and good name will be passed down forever, blessing future generations.
Our illustrious emperor, aiding the present age and rescuing the realm, ascended the throne in accordance with heavenly mandate. He is valiant and mighty, bringing prosperity, forging a wide path, laying the foundation of the empire.
The Glorious Emperor, with unmatched accomplishments, rectifying the times and saving the people, brings peace to the world and stability to the nine regions. Auspicious signs from heaven usher in wise rule.
Our Emperor of Great Merit, wise and extraordinary, naturally possessing saintly virtues, rules by divine mandate, establishing the imperial enterprise and founding the Jin Dynasty. His virtues are passed down through generations, blessing descendants and future generations.
The sagacious Emperor, like a flying dragon in the sky, connected with the divine, possessing profound and inscrutable virtues, receives the blessings of heaven, ensuring his legacy endures through the ages.
Our Emperor is truly majestic, whose benevolence extends across the land! The Emperor's radiance outshines the sun, moon, and stars, and the expanse of heaven and earth pales in comparison to the Emperor's grand accomplishments! He upholds the esteemed traditions of his predecessors, following the achievements of the Yellow Emperor. His wise decisions are destined to bring all under his rule.
Next, all the ministers, filled with enthusiasm, adorned in their finest regalia, arrived at dawn to pay their respects to the Emperor. The Emperor prepared a lavish feast for everyone, performing the solemn strains of "Shao." Everyone gazed upon the Emperor's visage, sensing his grace and favor.
The ceremony has officially commenced, and the atmosphere of the banquet is vibrant. Civil and military officials are arranged neatly, standing with dignity in the court. Everyone drinks moderately, behaves solemnly, with elegance, and maintains a respectful attitude throughout.
The Song of Nine Achievements has been sung, and the grand scenes of the prosperous six dynasties unfold vividly. The Emperor's benevolence is reflected in this grand dance, and also spread through poetry. With peace under heaven and prosperity of all things, this auspicious aura, which has traveled from afar, is finally fulfilled today.
(The music begins, guests enter, and "Yu Shuo Qu" is played in the four sections. The Emperor appears, and "Jiang Jiang Qu" is played in the four sections. The Emperor changes attire, and "Yu Shuo Qu" and "Jiang Jiang Qu" are played again in the four sections. The Huang Zhong and Tai Cu sections play "Fa Zhang" and "Nine Achievements.")
The great Song Dynasty, the auspicious aura flows endlessly, inheriting the foundation of the Han Dynasty, and originating from the glory of the Tang Dynasty. The Emperor's virtue is bright, his achievements remarkable, like a celestial emperor, governing all realms.
Our Emperor, wise and virtuous, is blessed by heaven. He is entrusted by heaven, bestowing supreme blessings. Like a dragon flying in the Purple Star Palace, he has established the flourishing capital of the Song Dynasty, illuminating the universe and his fame spreading far and wide.
(The Guxi section plays two chapters of the Grand Ceremony Salute Song.)
Offering birthday wine, wishing His Majesty a long life without bounds! The Emperor's divine virtue endures eternally, like the sun, moon, and stars, shining brightly over the earth.
(The Huang Zhong section plays one chapter of the Royal Birthday Song.)
The Great Song Dynasty, the country flourishes, the Emperor's sacred virtue is like the will of heaven, shining over the world, blessing the stability of the nation. With peace under heaven, nations coming to pay tribute, the grand ceremony and solemn music create a serene atmosphere.
Rivers flow, merging into the sea, like nations paying respects, respectfully and orderly. Everyone is familiar with etiquette, behaves appropriately, and by adhering to these rites, one can inspire the world.
Our emperor, a sage monarch born of heaven, leads the country towards prosperity by setting a good example. May he be as enduring as the sky, as brilliant as the sun, and may this auspiciousness endure forever; may the emperor's rule last for all time!
(The three chapters of music are played in front of the palace, accompanied by golden stone instruments.)
As the sun rises, its rays illuminate everything, ensuring peace and prosperity for the nation. In the third year of Jiaqing, music and rituals flourish, bringing peace and prosperity to the nation. As the new year begins, new regulations and systems are put in place, people from all directions come to pay their respects, and the imperial palace is filled with a peaceful and joyous atmosphere. Civil and military officials gather respectfully to listen to the emperor's teachings; the atmosphere is solemn and magnificent, truly dazzling. The grand ceremony reverberates throughout the heavens and earth, and the joyous atmosphere permeates the palace and its surroundings. May this prosperous and peaceful era continue to bless the people.
Five types of jade and three types of silk are presented; civil and military ministers play music in the palace to celebrate the grand ceremony. The Empress Dowager graciously accepts the congratulations, and the emperor gladly accepts the well-wishes from all nations. Truly, harmony between ruler and subjects, a scene of peace and harmony! Five flags flutter high, officials from four counties come to pay their respects, the music plays exceptionally well, the etiquette is meticulous, and the royal demeanor is unmistakable, showcasing a scene of prosperity that is unparalleled.
The emperor is extremely kind, in harmony with the principles of Yin and Yang; his virtues are gentle and peaceful, bringing peace and continuous auspiciousness to the world. The precious jade radiates light, responding to the echoes of the bells; the elegant phoenix dances with grace, and the hidden dragon emerges. Auspicious stars appear, sweet dew descends, trees intertwine, crops grow abundantly, and auspicious signs appear, fulfilling various prophecies of prosperity.
The emperor cares for the remote areas, comforts the people, prays for blessings from heaven, and witnesses the submission of all nations. The world enjoys peace, the country flourishes, the emperor's sacred light shines upon the earth, the Jiaqing era flourishes, the people live in peace and prosperity, and all people support him. The three spirits converge, auspicious signs appear; only under the rule of the new emperor can this happen.
The emperor's benevolent rule extends across the land, his benevolence reaches all directions; he chants the principles of "Qianyuan," follows the teachings of the former emperor, and his sacred virtue is as regular as the changing seasons. His sincerity moves heaven. His grace spreads widely, the world enjoys peace, and nations come to pay their respects.
The royal achievements continue to develop, the world is peaceful, and the era is prosperous. Etiquette prevails in the imperial palace, and even the remote areas submit to the court. People wear gorgeous clothing and come to pay their respects; the heavens and earth are filled with blessings, grace is widely spread, education deeply influences people's hearts, and the emperor's favor is vast.
At the beginning of the new year, all nations come to pay homage, offer tribute, and the emperor accepts their congratulations. The ministers stand adorned with jade, observe the rituals and systems, praise the emperor's merits, sing praises of the prosperous and peaceful era, and enjoy the peace and prosperity of the time.
May this prosperous era continue for a long time; the emperor's virtues shine brightly. He has refined the seven policies, implemented the five codes, standardized ethical morals, promoted education, and the king's grace is widely bestowed, ushering in the era of peace and prosperity. He has established a good reputation, created the era of Ming Huang, worships the gods, and solemnly conducts sacrifices. His royal family and dynasty continue endlessly, enjoying the blessings bestowed by heaven.
Let's talk about this ceremony; it is about rules, there must be regulations. Musical instruments are neatly arranged, with gold, stone, jade artifacts, and feather decorations—everything is there. The music includes both majestic and grand pieces like "Wu" and "Hu," as well as peaceful and soothing pieces like "Xianchi." There is also the beautiful song of "Nanfeng," and the dance is perfectly coordinated, showcasing a blend of civil and martial arts, with the singing filling the air with lively energy!
In this prosperous era, it is all thanks to the emperor's benevolence. The nation thrives in peace and the people are content, with harmony reigning across the realm. All the people in the world are living and working in peace. This is all due to the emperor's promotion of ritual and musical teachings, changing the people's customs. This positive atmosphere will endure. The songs celebrate this era of peace, as well as the emperor's great achievements, which will be immortalized! The ten songs are divided into two parts: performed by the Huangzhong instruments are "Chenxi," "Tizhihe," "Wangdao," "Kaiyuanchen," and "Liyourong"; performed by the Taicu instruments are "Wuyu," "Huaihuangyi," "Huangyouji," "Weiyongchu," and "Wangdaochun."
The scene is truly breathtaking, as if the heavens are blessing it! The sunlight shines on the earth, the rituals are solemn, and the songs come from abundant virtue, while the dances originate from profound merits. The palace is full of musical instruments, with all kinds of instruments complementing each other, producing a harmonious symphony. The ancient melody of "Xiaoshao" resounds once more, with the harmonious sound of music originating from the emperor's noble virtue, reflecting the majesty of the royal house, consolidating the foundation of the country, and aligning with the heavens, shaping the entire realm, ensuring harmony among all things, like the vibrant clouds above. This flourishing scene will be eternally celebrated. This dance and music will be handed down through generations, never to fade! This summarizes the essence of "Qianwu Ge."
This prosperous era of peace is all thanks to the emperor's wise rule, heavenly blessings, and the emperor's countless merits. The country is strong, stable, and united from all corners. The emperor is like a flying dragon in the sky, a model for all nations. With wise and martial qualities, the emperor manages court affairs with order. It goes without saying that all things in the world benefit from the emperor's grace. The emperor reports his victories to the heavens, records his achievements, and is benevolent and generous, in accordance with the will of heaven, establishing systems to ensure peace and prosperity throughout the realm. After sitting in court to govern the people, he then performs the "Dayu" dance; the emperor's pure blessings will be remembered for generations. This is the content of "Qianwu Ge."
Next are the lyrics of "Sufu Music" performed by the guests, in two chapters: This grand sacrificial ceremony is truly solemn! Filial sons follow ancient rituals, respectfully serving the ancestral spirits. The entire world is immersed in a celebratory atmosphere, as people gather for the grand ceremony. The hosts carry out the preparations methodically; the ceremony is both solemn and grand. The offerings adorn the altar, and the air is rich with the aroma of the offerings. Everyone is focused and quiet, awaiting the commencement of the ceremony. The sacrificial vessels were chosen in advance, and everything has been properly prepared. The ceremony unfolds in an orderly and solemn fashion, as if the ancestral spirits were right before them. The emperor also graces the sacrificial ceremony with his presence, receiving the ancestors' blessings.
The sacrificial ceremony is solemn and dignified, with a reverent atmosphere. The emperor personally presides over it, with meticulous attention to the rituals and abundant offerings. Both inside and outside the imperial palace, there is an air of solemnity, with the sacrificial altar grand and imposing. The royal ancestors bestow their blessings, and all officials diligently carry out their duties. With devout hearts, everyone keeps vigil all night, awaiting the arrival of dawn. As dawn breaks and sunlight bathes the land, everything appears especially solemn and sacred. This grand ceremony seeks prosperity for the country, expresses reverence for the ancestors, and prays for the eternal prosperity of the royal family.
Next is the ritual of offering sacrificial livestock, with music resuming and voices rising:
**With pure offerings, with filial piety to the spirits. Respectfully offering grains and sacrificial animals. The horses are well-fed, overflowing with abundance. To continue the ancestral sacrifices, to honor the emperor's heart. The fragrant offerings rise, the fire of offerings spreads. The divine overseer watches over us, the praise is gentle and kind.**
Then comes the ritual of presenting offerings, with music resuming and voices rising:
**Initiating the ceremony, all rites are performed. The six rites are accompanied by sacred texts, the nine officers are in order. The sacrificial animals are gentle and pure, the ceremonies are solemn and firm. Respectfully purifying and honoring the divine. Adding vessels and offerings, the rites are solemn. The movements are dignified, and the sounds flow like gold. The surroundings are grand, the atmosphere is strict. Pure and sincere in the evening, dignified and formal in the morning. The divine spirits are present, guiding our emperor. In the heavens, the four corners are at peace; on earth, the myriad nations are in harmony. Forever speaking of filial piety, filial piety is respected. The officials are praised, the atmosphere is solemn.**
This is the song for offering sacrificial livestock.
Next is the ritual of welcoming the spirits, with music resuming and voices rising:
The palace is dark, the hall is dim. The moonlight is bright, and the jade glows with a red hue. The divine atmosphere is solemn, the jade hall exudes a fragrant aroma. The round fire glows at dusk, while the square water is clear at dawn. Golden branches lean on the trees, emerald ornaments stand in the county. The waves are clear at night, the Hua Han River floats in the sky. Respectful matters have always been early, with a devout heart. Looking up to the emperor's spirit, bowing down to seek blessings.
Finally, the emperor enters the temple through the north gate, music plays, performing "Eternal Joy." The Ming Dynasty was indeed flourishing, showcasing the empress dowager's exemplary filial piety. The magnificent carriages rush past, brushing over the Han River, reflecting on the river surface. The night is peaceful and serene, the atmosphere in the court is solemn and reverent. The golden scenery is a farewell, while the jade-hued breeze carries the "Shao" music. The sacrifices follow the rituals of the ancestors, respectfully worshipping the ancestral spirits.
The high priest sang two chapters of the music at the sacrificial site:
"The emperor inherits the sacrifice; it is a beautiful day. The nine palace gates are all open, and the four divine beasts come to the palace. The solemn sacrificial ceremony begins, civil and military officials stand in line. The spirits accept the sacrifice; the exquisite offerings are fragrant. The jade wine cups are neatly arranged, the cassia wood utensils are orderly placed. The officials in charge of the sacrifice are earnestly executing every step of the sacrifice."
"The grand sacrificial ceremony pays homage to the empress dowager. The sacrificial items are meticulous, and the sacrificial words are flawless. The rich aroma of fine wine fills the air; the heartfelt offerings resonate with the heavens. The high song praises the festive occasion, while the low instruments play harmonious music. The emperor's intention is to reflect on the past, to respect and honor the ancestors. The profound filial piety stirs the heavens and earth."
The empress dowager's shrine resonated with the music and dance of "Zhang De Kai Rong," and the lyrics were:
The profound auspiciousness reveals the empress dowager's spirituality, celebrating her sacred virtues. She assists the emperor, promotes culture, and brings auspiciousness and celebrations. Heaven grants her blessings, and people sing praises for her. Her achievements will be eternally celebrated, and her descendants will prosper and flourish.
The imperial palace played the music and dance of "Zhao De Kai Rong," composed by Emperor Ming, with lyrics:
"Showcasing the empress dowager's spirituality, inheriting and promoting ancestral rituals, radiant like the violet sky. Her teachings spread across heaven and earth, her achievements shine in the imperial palace. The golden light gathers, singing praises of her virtues and appearance."
The imperial palace played the music and dance of "Xuan De Kai Rong," also composed by Emperor Ming, with lyrics:
"The celestial stars shine brilliantly, the earth and the empress dowager shine in harmony. Her radiance illuminates the world, auspicious scenes fill heaven and earth. The aura of auspiciousness pervades the world, her virtues move the heavens. Singing her virtues with beautiful jade, spreading her achievements with golden instruments."
The emperor returned to the east wall, accepted the blessing wine, and played the music and dance of "Jia Shi," with lyrics:
"The ceremony is grand and solemn, an auspicious moment has arrived. The emperor accepts the grace of heaven, and his reign will prosper even more. He is in a high position, in accordance with the will of heaven, his virtues radiate like auspicious energy. He governs the world, bestows grace to all directions, his radiance illuminates the universe. His oceanic grace extends across the realm, his merits shine upon the universe. Auspicious visions will endure eternally, and his achievements will be immortal."
During the sending-off ceremony, the music and dance of "Zhao Xia" were played, with two chapters of lyrics: (lyrics omitted here as they were not provided in the original text)
The grand ceremony of filial piety was carried out in a magnificent manner, with elaborate rituals and abundant offerings, so much so that even the deities were pleased to remain, creating a festive and harmonious atmosphere. The emperor's chariot rose high into the sky, soaring towards the clouds, as if it were about to soar beyond the nine heavens, connecting heaven and earth. The entire ceremony was solemn and dignified, imbuing the atmosphere with a sense of solemnity and beauty.
This display of filial piety moved both heaven and earth, touching everyone present. The emperor's deep and enduring longing for the late emperor was akin to a deep attachment to one's wings and a lingering fondness for majestic trees. He set aside his governmental affairs, rode in a magnificent chariot, wearing a solemn and contemplative expression, his heart filled with memories of the late emperor and hope for the country's future.
Then, the emperor arrived at the side hall and played the music of "Xiu Cheng," with lyrics as follows:
The wine and food are presented, the offerings are all set.
The feast is sincere and abundant, the rituals and music are everywhere.
The congratulatory words are finished, the order is completed.
The chariot moves in the courtyard, the imperial carriage returns to the solemn hall.
The divine ritual is stationed, the magnificent pavilion stands empty.
The Eight Spirits guard the case, the Three Altars open the way.
The emerald canopy shines clear, the jade brilliance solidifies the palace.
The jade rein rests, the golden carriage holds the sound.
The sincerity of filial piety resonates deeply within.
Following the imperial mirror, reflecting the profound example.
The divine blessings illuminate the four corners of the earth.
Looking up at the emperor's emblem, bowing down to the prosperity of the people.
These lyrics express the emperor's immense reverence and longing for the late emperor, as well as the beautiful wish for the prosperity of the country. During the ceremony, fine wine and delicacies were already prepared, sincere sacrifices were made, the etiquette was complete, and the music was melodious. After the congratulatory words were recited, the ceremony ended, and the emperor's chariot slowly returned to the palace. The entire ceremony was sacred and solemn, conveying the emperor's deep affection for the late emperor and his sense of responsibility towards the country. This grand ceremony was not only an expression of filial piety, but also a prayer for divine blessings for the peace and well-being of the nation's citizens.
