Oh, Emperor of Heaven, may your divine light shine upon the world! As the sacred artifacts pass on, the Five Virtues cycle, the Great Jin Dynasty inherits the mandate of heaven, with generations of wise kings appearing. Your rule over the world, educating the four directions, the brilliance of the Great Ming Dynasty radiates far and wide, benefiting all people, allowing the citizens to live and work in peace, enjoying a long-lasting era of peace and prosperity. The royal family adheres to the path of integrity and virtue, enforcing the governance of rites and music, with the sounds of metal and stone instruments resonating, dances in unison, expressing congratulations for the emperor's grace. The harmonious music, grander than the ancient "War Dance" and "Hu Dance," displays six virtues, harmoniously influencing the people, bringing peace and prosperity to the world, with blessings far-reaching.
As destiny returns, the Great Jin Dynasty flourishes once again, the brilliance of three generations of emperors shines anew. Inheriting the virtues of their ancestors, the radiance shines upon the world, the emperor carries on the great legacy of his ancestors, stable and bright like the North Star. The people's hearts return to the emperor, the world belongs to the Great Jin, the emperor follows the Five Canons, spreading education far and wide, all people in the world follow the same standards, thriving together. Therefore, the "Great Yu Dance" was composed to celebrate the emperor's virtues, with a pure social atmosphere, the royal road flourishing, blessings extending to plants and insects, and all people admiring the emperor's grace, the great achievements thrive, leaving a lasting legacy for generations.
The longevity wine flows, and the music is melodious, the Great Jin Dynasty follows the will of heaven, may the emperor live forever! The revered emperor tours the nations, the court brimming with talented and virtuous officials. The emperor's grace is boundless, the royal road prosperous, today hosting a banquet for guests, the court filled with guests, the feathered banners shining in the sunlight, the sound of bells and drums echoing through the sky. The officials pay their respects, the ceremonies solemn, the scene is grand, with the sounds of gold and jade resonating harmoniously.
The rites and music are complete, banquets are held for guests, wishing the emperor longevity and the country prosperity. The nobles come to congratulate, the atmosphere is grand and lively, everyone toasts and presents gifts, following the etiquette, with sumptuous dishes, countless cups of wine, cheerful music, with guests and hosts alike rejoicing and sharing in blessings. Ah, what a wonderful sight! The world is peaceful, cultural education flourishes, society is pure, the traditional music of "Xiaoshao" plays, celebrating the nine virtues, abundant harvests, the world is peaceful, it is truly a prosperous era! Joy is endless! The emperor is wise and intelligent, the ministers are loyal, bringing forth nourishing rain, promoting righteousness. They say these times are truly auspicious! "Good omens arise, and divine signs manifest. The qilin appears, the phoenix soars. Sweet springs gush, the blessings of the Tang dynasty flow. Good harvests, full grain bins. Descending blessings, the blessings of the holy emperor." Look, the qilin has appeared, the phoenix is soaring, sweet springs are gushing, the harvest is filling the bins, truly a divine blessing, blessing the emperor! The emperor accepts the mandate of heaven, ruling over all nations, "Accepting the heavenly throne, ruling over all nations. Fulfilling the mandate, bestowing holy virtues. Four generations of glory, proclaiming a great enterprise, flourishing in prosperity, honoring culture, promoting virtue. Initiating the state of Jin, the dynasty is destined to flourish forever." This is a glorious four generations, establishing a great cause, promoting culture and virtue, establishing the Jin dynasty, ensuring the stability of the country! Continuing on, during the Taishi period, it was truly a prosperous era marked by the auspicious presence of dragons and phoenixes! "Establishing the Taishi era, the phoenix and dragon prosper. The dragon prospers, enjoying the glory of the realm. Ruling over all lands, nurturing the people. Books illuminate history with their brilliance, with evidence in gold and stone." This era of dragon prosperity, with the glory of the realm, ruling over all lands, educating the people, shining brightly in history, with gold and stone as evidence, the emperor's virtues radiate magnificently, "Great virtue, flourishing morality. Respected by the four directions, honored under the heavens. Successive generations are brilliant, clearly and harmoniously. Bright and clear to the end. Protecting this eternal prosperity, in reverence, standing alongside the heavens." The descendants thrive, brightness and greatness, the country's prosperity, longevity equal to that of heaven and earth!
The emperor rules the realm by aligning with heaven's will and the people's hearts. "The emperor rules the four seas, following the will of heaven. The three leaves unite to radiate great light, establishing a grand foundation. Brightly shining as the sun, moon, and stars, his achievements rival the passing of the four seasons. The universe is clear and peaceful, the people are content and harmonious. How splendid is this harmony." The three generations of glory have created a great foundation, with the emperor's virtues shining as brightly as the sun, moon, and stars, blessing the world throughout the seasons. The world is at peace, the people are happy and prosperous, truly a prosperous era!
All of this is decreed by heaven, with heaven blessing the kind-hearted emperor. "Only heaven grants the mandate, bestowing support upon the kind emperor. Like the ancient three emperors, his virtues are abundant. Harmonizing all aspects of governance, shining over the seven political spheres. Following the appropriate timing, transforming as if sacred. With the same wind blowing across the four seas, spreading benevolence. Aiding the people, nurturing all things, like a potter shaping clay. Like a potter shaping clay, bestowing benevolent grace. The emperor gathers wise and talented advisors, spreading virtue and wisdom to benefit future generations. Benefiting future generations, bestowing blessings on future descendants." Heaven bestows a mission, assisting the kind-hearted emperor, just like the ancient three emperors, with grand virtues and wise governance, bringing peace to the nation, unity to the world. The emperor is like a deity, compassionate towards the people, nurturing all things, blessing future generations, with talented individuals emerging and spreading virtue for generations!
Behold this court, solemn and dignified, with the emperor diligently ruling and caring for the people. "The clear temple is solemn, with the emperor at the peak and the four gates open wide. With the four gates open wide, all matters are comprehensively managed. Carefully and attentively, never indulging in pleasure, even neglecting his meals when hungry." The imperial palace is solemn and dignified, with the four gates wide open; the emperor handles state affairs meticulously, diligent in governance, even thinking of the people during moments of leisure, truly dedicating himself tirelessly for the nation! "With the grand ceremony completed, joy knows no bounds." Once the grand ceremony concludes, the emperor can finally revel in joy.
Finally, imagine the majesty of the emperor! "Climbing Kunlun, reaching Zengcheng. Riding on a flying dragon, ascending to Taiching Peak. Adorned with the sun and the moon, waving rainbows and shooting stars. Covered in auspicious clouds, overshadowed by prosperity. Viewing the eight poles, wandering in the heavenly court. Following the heavens and the earth, harmonizing yin and yang. Sequencing the four energies, shining with the three lights. Expanding the emperor's network, upholding the imperial principles. Spreading the winds of benevolence, flowing with the blessings of kindness. Advancing the great transformation, shaking with spiritual power. Embracing all directions, accepting the nine tribes. Attending the grand ceremonies, feasting at the Purple Palace." The emperor ascended Kunlun, roamed the heavenly court, majestic and divine, like a god, ruling the world, blessing the four corners, truly the supreme ruler!
The opening drums and gongs were deafening, the ringing of bells echoing, how lively! Teams from the four counties gathered, playing the solemn "Shao" music and the majestic "Wu" music. With golden weapons and iron horses, banners waving, the Eight Yis dance gracefully, and the Bayu dance is also exceptionally lively. Reciting elegant poetry, the music is harmonious, truly so joyful, all to celebrate the emperor!
This prosperous scene is truly pure and righteous, with heroes gathering. The emperor has created a prosperous era, cleared away the barbarians, shining brightly, with divine virtue that transcends generations, leaving a lasting legacy for hundreds of generations, blessing future generations!
Emperor, you are the illustrious ancestor, assisting the dynasty, stabilizing the world, ascending the throne according to the mandate of heaven. You are brave and mighty, governing the world, opening up the path to peace and prosperity, laying the foundation of the imperial legacy.
Emperor, you are the illustrious monarch who brings honor to your ancestors, with remarkable achievements, saving the people, with deeds that resonate throughout the realm. The world is peaceful, the nine provinces are stable, favored by heaven, you are a sagacious ruler.
Former emperor, you were a wise and intelligent ruler, born with sacred virtues, ruling by divine mandate, establishing the imperial enterprise, founding the Jin dynasty, bestowing virtue upon future generations, blessing descendants.
Emperor, you are a wise monarch, like a dragon soaring to the heavens, communicating with heaven and earth, with profound virtue, receiving heavenly grace, bestowing blessings upon the people, ensuring a legacy that will endure for generations.
— This is the ceremonial poem for the New Year's Day grand concert of elegant music, consisting of fifteen chapters.
Wow, the emperor is truly majestic, benevolent and righteous, radiant as the sun and moon, surpassing all those who came before, following in the footsteps of the Yellow Emperor Xuanyuan. Your decisions have determined the fate of the nation, and envoys from all corners of the realm come to pay their respects.
Civil and military officials, dressed in their finest attire, have come early in the morning to pay homage to the emperor. The emperor partook of the Eight Treasures feast, appreciated the music and dances of the Nine Auspicious Songs, and looked up in gratitude at the emperor's benevolence and virtue.
The ceremonial procedures have all been arranged, and the banquet officially begins. Civil and military officials stand solemnly in the court, drinking in moderation and conducting themselves with dignity. The emperor sits respectfully in his seat, ever mindful of the awe he inspires.
The Song of Nine Achievements has been sung, and the prosperous scenes of six dynasties have been presented. The emperor's grace and virtue are reflected in this grand dance, through poetry praising the emperor's achievements. This peaceful and prosperous era, with all things flourishing, this grand celebration has finally come to fruition, emerging from distant lands.
- This is the song "Four Seasons" in four chapters. (Guests enter, playing "Yushuo Tune" from all sides. The emperor enters, playing "Jiangjiang Tune" from all sides. The emperor changes clothes, playing "Yushuo" and "Jiangjiang" from all sides. The Huang Zhong and Taicu play "Fazhang" and "Nine Achievements" from both sides.)
It is said that the Great Song Dynasty is truly flourishing! It inherits the legacy of the Han Dynasty and carries on the cultural and martial achievements of the Tang Dynasty, with a flourishing national fortune and vibrant spirit. "Great is the Emperor of Song, bringing prosperity, continuing the lineage of the Han, inheriting the essence of the Tang. His virtue shines brightly, with no lack of brilliance. He is matched with heaven, residing in all directions." This splendid scene is indeed worthy of admiration!
His Majesty is wise and virtuous, moving heaven and earth with his virtue. Blessings come from above, blessing the emperor with a son; this is indeed a momentous joy. "After the emperor, the sacred virtue resonates. By the decree of heaven, the birth is granted. The dragon flies to the purple extreme, creating our capital of Song. The light of the universe is bright and shining." This grand celebration is celebrated throughout the country, singing praises to the emperor's virtues. Offering birthday wine, wishing His Majesty a long life and prosperity for the country. "Offering the wine of longevity, celebrating the holy emperor. The spirit of the dynasty flourishes, resting in the light of the three lights." This grand occasion is truly unprecedented!
The Great Song Dynasty is powerful, the emperor's benevolence shines upon the world, and the people live in peace and happiness. "Bright and great Song, the emperor's way is smooth. The heavens bestow grace, the light settles the protection of heaven. Once the protection of heaven is settled, offerings arrive from all corners. The rituals are rich and joyful, solemn and grand." Like the rushing rivers converging into the sea, offerings from all over are continuously delivered, with ceremonies solemn and grand. "The flowing water of the river, the morning court of the heavenly pool. The grand offerings, the restrained demeanor. Once the demeanor is learned, the etiquette is also embraced. One person has it, and the people of the world follow suit." The emperor sets an example, inspiring people across the realm.
The emperor is a saint sent by heaven to save the people; his rule will be long-lasting and prosperous. "Oh, Your Majesty, a divine blessing has indeed graced us. Stepping firmly from the beginning, celebrating the auspiciousness of this reign. Like the heavens lasting, like the sun shining. In this auspicious scene, the noble mandate is forever solid." This is truly a blessing from heaven! At the beginning of the new year, the whole country celebrates, courtiers gather together to celebrate this grand festival. "The morning sun shines brightly, all things are seen. Celebrating the three dynasties, with rituals and music in place. The beginning of the new year, the laws shine brightly. All directions come to congratulate, the descendants fill the imperial court. Many scholars fill the nine esteemed ranks, bowing in reverence to the melodious strains. Respectfully bowing, carrying its brilliance. Drums and bells shake the heavens, the court is filled with ritual elegance. Enjoying the joy and celebrating the rest, blessings and prosperity are the same." The spectacle is truly grand and magnificent, with songs and music echoing through the sky.
Five jades and three silk fabrics were offered, court officials played music with jade in the palace, and the Empress herself graciously accepted the morning tributes. "Five jades are presented, three silk fabrics are offered. Your lordships, play music in the magnificent hall. The holy Empress graciously accepts the tribute while facing south. The emperor accepts the auspicious rites, and all nations rejoice together. Hail! A joyous celebration between the ruler and his subjects. Raise five flags and establish four counties. Music is cultured, rites are tireless. Embrace the imperial spirit, completing a transformation." The entire country was immersed in a peaceful and festive atmosphere. The emperor's virtuous actions resonated throughout heaven and earth, and signs of auspiciousness appeared frequently. "Harmony prevails, reflecting the balance of yin and yang. Virtue is always gentle, prosperity and peace abound. Auspicious signs appear, welcoming the auspicious bell. The phoenix dances gracefully, while the hidden dragon leaps. The starry scene is witnessed, sweet dew falls. Trees are intertwined, grains are abundant. Mysterious transformations bring harmony, and benevolence flourishes. Auspicious signs are at their peak, divine symbols abound." This golden age will continue forever! This text praises the emperor's virtues, starting with: "Embracing the remote descendants, pacifying the minority peoples. Bearing the blessings of heaven, all are not without guests." This indicates that he brought peace to the border minority groups, governed the people well, and heaven blessed him, with all sides submitting to him. "All are not without guests, long-lasting prosperity. Bright and clear, harmonious and auspicious." This shows that his rule is stable, the country is peaceful and prosperous. "Harmonious and auspicious, the emperor's reign. Harmony and peace are achieved, the people are happy." It's truly a golden age, and the people are very happy. "The three spirits are in harmony, only the new emperor succeeds." This further indicates that the emperor is favored by heaven. Next, it continues to praise the emperor, saying that his royal road spreads throughout the world, "The royal road reaches all corners, benevolence and virtue spread. Exploring principles, chanting the origin, following the emperor's teachings." He emphasizes reason, emulates the ancient sages, and teaches his subjects to follow the customs of their ancestors. "Spiritual transformation rivals the four seasons, the profound and sincere understand the mystery. Virtue and grace cover the eight directions, the world enjoys peace, and all nations come to pay their respects." His benevolence is as constant as the changing seasons, his sincerity moves heaven, bringing peace to the world, and all nations come to pay homage.
This emperor rules the country wisely, "With royal auspiciousness, all is prosperous. Etiquette flourishes in the emperor's court, and foreign lands are in awe." His rule brings stability and prosperity to the country, with etiquette prevailing and even the minority ethnic groups at the borders having submitted. "With hair unbound, adorned in embroidered robes and crowns, and wearing belts and collars." This describes the attire of different ethnic groups, showcasing the unity and integration of the country. "Heaven covers the earth, with abundant blessings. His teachings resonate deeply in the hearts of the people, his virtues shining brightly." His benevolence extends throughout the realm, his teachings deeply ingrained in people's hearts, his virtues shining brilliantly.
This praise is truly endless, "In the auspicious reign of Kaiyuan, the noble king. Offer tributes, attend the imperial court." Princes from various regions come to pay respects, offer treasures, and meet the emperor. "Adorned with jade, observing the rituals. Enjoying the king's grace, praising his virtues." They don jade ornaments, observe the rituals and systems, and praise the emperor's virtues. "Thriving in prosperity, wandering in peace. Bright and illustrious, everlasting prosperity." They revel in the age of prosperity, akin to the ancient golden age of peace.
And it continues, praising further, "Only in Yongchu, virtues are prominent. Implementing seven policies, establishing five systems." The emperor's virtues shine prominently, governing the country wisely, implementing various systems. "Maintaining social order, promoting education. The king's blessings abound, ushering in an era of tranquility." Social order is well-maintained, education is widespread, and peace prevails throughout the land. "Establishing teachings, recording the emperor's legacy. Honoring the spirits, paying sincere respects." He cultivates a virtuous social atmosphere, his achievements enshrined in history, and he sincerely worships the spirits. "Extending blessings, receiving great fortune." His descendants will continue to enjoy a prosperous era.
Finally, the praise reaches its climax, "With proper etiquette, and ceremonial music. Displaying gold and stone, distributing ivory and feathers." In grand ceremonies, a symphony of musical instruments resounds, creating a breathtaking spectacle. "Performing martial and ceremonial music, harmonizing the waters. Singing the 'South Wind,' dancing in praise of virtues." A variety of music fills the air, with dances that celebrate the emperor's virtues. "With literary and military brilliance, the chorus of praise rises." Officials from literary and military backgrounds are jubilant, singing praises of the emperor's accomplishments.
In conclusion, this emperor was truly a good emperor, "With pure royal virtue and exemplary virtue. Maintaining harmony across the eight regions and ensuring peace in the nine territories." His royal virtue was pure, his conduct noble, the borders were stable, and the world was at peace. "Promoting courtesy and respect, transforming societal customs. Changing customs, perpetually harmonizing." He promoted courtesy and transformed societal customs, leading to a more harmonious society. "Singing praises of his virtues and proclaiming his accomplishments. Singing of his merits, boundless in greatness." People celebrated his merits, and his achievements will be remembered for eternity.
The last sentence explains that this song has ten chapters, divided into the Huangzhong and Taicu sections, each featuring five different pieces. The specific song titles are as follows: the Huangzhong section features "Morning Xi," "Body Harmony," "Royal Virtue," "Kaiyuan Chen," and "Courtesy and Tolerance"; the Taicu section features "Five Jades," "Nostalgia for the Wilderness," "Imperial Designation," "Only Eternal Beginning," and "Pure Royal Virtue."
Speaking of this grand ceremony, it was truly magnificent! Look at the clear sky, the heavens above blessing this grand scene, joyful sounds coming from Yiyang, solemn and dignified etiquette. The songs sung by noble individuals, the dances originating from profound achievements. The palace arranged neatly, the steps filled with zithers, various instruments playing in harmony, creating a delightful sound. Though the music of "Xiaoshao" is ancient, its beautiful symbolism endures to this day. This grand ceremony reflects the king's noble virtues and harmonious philosophy of governance, shining on the imperial enterprise, in harmony with the heavens, spreading education throughout the world, naturally harmonious. Like the brilliant Milky Way, adding radiance to the country. The people rejoice, as in the prosperous times of Yao and Shun, beating the drum and playing the "Shao" music; this prosperous era will continue forever.
This "Pre-Dance Song" consists of the lyrics from the Jin Dynasty's "Zhengde Dance," composed by Ruibin Xiang.
Next, let's take a look at this last dance song. This grand song and dance is a blessing bestowed by heaven, the result of a king's accumulation of good deeds, with a stable royal authority and a peaceful country. The emperor's majesty soars like a dragon in the sky, educating all nations. The emperor is wise and handles state affairs in the morning with calmness and insight. He influences all things with few words, bestowing grace and virtue upon all. He reports to the heavens, engraving his achievements. The king governs diligently, loves the people, is kind and gentle, follows the will of heaven, establishes systems, stabilizes the country, and harmonizes with the divine. Foreign lands submit, the domestic land is peaceful, the emperor sits with dignity, governing with benevolence, and the people live in peace and happiness. Then, the dance of "Great Yu" was played again, as if heaven and man were united; this era of peace and harmony will endure for eternity, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come. This "Later Dance Song" is also the lyrics of the "Dance of Great Yu" from the Jin Dynasty, also created by Ruibin Xiang. Next are the lyrics of "Sufeng Music," performed during the guests' arrivals and departures, divided into two chapters: Chapter One: Inheriting filial piety, respectfully serving the wise monarch, heaven is touched, and the people celebrate together. The master of ceremonies conducts everything with precision, the procession is orderly and mighty, fragrant flower branches flutter, and the palace is adorned in splendid decorations. Treasures are placed in front of the hall, wine fills the courtyard, musical instruments play in unison, and the singing is melodious. The etiquette was carefully prepared in advance; everything is in order, respectfully welcoming the blessings of the gods, and the royal celebration is held grandly. Chapter Two: Honoring the emperor's dignity, the emperor's radiant presence reflects his virtue, swiftly conducting the sacrifice with bountiful offerings. The palace is solemn and majestic, the foundation is solid and magnificent, the heavens bestow blessings, and all officials perform their duties. Sincerely waiting for the arrival of night, lining up neatly to welcome the sunrise, the rising sun casts its light upon all. A grand celebration, a beautiful sacrifice, praising the emperor's virtue, ensuring the everlasting legacy of this glorious era. Finally, here are the lyrics of the "Yinsheng Music" played when livestock enter and exit:
(Translation not provided as the original text includes specific lyrics from traditional Chinese songs.)
Firstly, we come to offer sacrifices, expressing filial piety and honoring our ancestors. We present millet and wash the offerings. The well-fed livestock are raised with care, and the offerings are abundant. This is done to carry on the ancestral sacrifices and to show respect to the heavens. The fragrance wafted through the air, and the flames danced brightly. The deities observed everything clearly; this sacrificial ceremony was solemn and beautiful.
Next are the lyrics of "Jia Jian Yue": The sacrifices have begun, and the ceremony is held with great formality. The six rites regulate the ceremonies, while the nine offices arrange everything in order. The offerings are splendid, and the ceremony is dignified. Everything is cleaned thoroughly, and we serve the deities with reverence. The offerings are plentiful, diverse in type. The music resonates, echoing through the skies. Inside the tent, there is peace, while the palace stands solemn and majestic. The sincere heart of the offering shone as clearly as the morning sun. The deities descend, blessing our nation, granting peace to the world, and welcoming all nations. We will forever remember this act of filial piety, as the sacrificial ceremony is both solemn and grand. The attendants moved with precision and order, creating a serious and respectful atmosphere. This is the lyrics for the evening sacrifice of livestock.
Then we welcome the deities with the lyrics of "Shao Xia Yue": The palace stands grand and majestic, its halls magnificent and resplendent. The palace is bright and clean, illuminated by dazzling lights. The deities seem to gaze upon this place, with fragrance filling the palace. The flames shine brightly in the night, and the waters are clear in the morning. Golden branches hang from the trees, while green lanterns are hung high. The calm waters reflect the night sky, and the brilliant Milky Way floats in the heavens. We begin the sacrifices early, our hearts filled with admiration. We pray for the deities to descend and bless our land and nation.
The emperor entered the north gate of the temple, and the lyrics of "Eternal Joy" were sung: The emperor's virtues shine brightly, his filial piety is clearly revealed. The magnificent carriage slowly passed by the Han River. The night is peaceful and calm, the morning is full of auspiciousness. The golden light shines, the jade-like figure gracefully dances. Respectfully worshiping the ancestors in accordance with the sacrificial rituals.
Finally, the Grand Priest sang two chapters of the ceremonial song on the altar: The emperor solemnly presided over the sacrifice; this is an auspicious day. The nine palace gates are all open, the four spirits have gathered here. The solemn music plays, the attendants are in neat rows. The spirits accept the offerings, the beautiful sacrificial ceremony continues. The jade sacrificial vessels are neatly arranged, the cassia wooden food vessels shine brightly. All officials act in accordance with the ritual, with uniform movements.
The solemn and dignified sacrificial ceremony expresses respect for the ancestors. The ceremony is meticulous, the words are sincere; there is no room for laxity. The essence of the sacrifice is embodied in the libation; even the heavens are moved by it. The songs extol virtue, while the music creates a harmonious ambiance. The emperor practices filial piety through practical actions, honoring his ancestors. The greatness of filial piety is enough to move the gods!
Next is the lyrics of the music and dance dedicated to Empress Dowager Zhang: Mysterious auspiciousness, honoring the holy empress. Carrying the emblem of virtue, spreading light and joy. Connecting the auspiciousness, adorning with praise. Forever belonging to brilliance, uniting in prosperity and blessings. This music and dance praises the holy virtues of Empress Dowager Zhang, with melodious singing that praises the auspiciousness and glory she brings, praying for the prosperity of the nation.
Then there are the lyrics of the music and dance dedicated to Empress Dowager Zhao, composed by Emperor Ming: Presenting the spirit with auspiciousness, continuing the rites with grace. Embracing the brilliance as she ascends to the purple dome. Instructing the heavens and earth, martial achievements in the palace. Rising with golden fragrance, expressing virtue and elegance.
These song lyrics also praise the holy virtue of Empress Dowager Zhao, extolling her glorious image and great achievements, comparing her to the stars in the sky shining over the imperial palace. Next are the lyrics for the ritual music and dance dedicated to Empress Xuan, also composed by Emperor Ming: The heavens converge in brilliance, the earth's pivot radiates splendor. Uniting light to illuminate the world, shining with auspicious signs. Fragrant blessings within the universe, scenes entwined in the heavens. Jade praises her engraved virtues, golden chimes transmitting emblems. These lyrics compare Empress Xuan to the stars in the sky and the earth's pivot, praising her glorious image and contributions to the country, extolling her widespread virtues and blessings to the world. When the Emperor received the blessing wine on the east wall, the dance and music of "Jia Shi" were performed, with the following lyrics: Offering respectful tributes, flourishing blessings. Embracing the imperial sanctity with auspicious grace, the emperor's accomplishments bringing peace. Residing at the peak of splendid fortune, the dwelling of a virtuous and auspicious king. Clear and bright overlooking the four directions, essence extending to the eight regions. Resounding benevolence across the vast seas, illuminating the universe with splendid light. Celebrating the spirit's blessings, the grand and boundless prosperity. These lyrics praise the emperor's sage rule and the era of peace and prosperity, praying for the prosperity of the nation and the eternal stability of the country. During the farewell to the spirits, the dance and music of "Zhao Xia" were performed, with two verses of lyrics: Great filial piety prepared, abundant offerings presented. Spirits at peace, joyous music abounding. Spirited chariots soaring, traversing the azure sky. Extending to the eight voids, opening the four realms. Flowing with grace, solemn wind. Zhao's teachings radiant, refining manners and conduct. Longing for the imperial spirit, forming deep admiration. Unraveling the feathered banners, halting under the splendid trees. Casting aside the jade chariot, flowing with exuberance, celebrating the nation's progress. These two verses express reverence and attachment to the spirits, praying for their blessings for national peace and prosperity. Finally, the Emperor performed the dance and music of "Xiu Cheng" in the side chamber: (The lyrics for "Xiu Cheng" are missing and cannot be translated.)
Wow, the scene is set, the food and drink are all laid out, and it looks quite lavish! The ceremony is truly grand, with all the proper rites and music, and a warm atmosphere. After the prayers are finished, everyone takes a break. The emperor's carriage stops at the palace gate, then slowly enters the palace. The emperor exudes solemnity and dignity; the entire hall feels both spacious and solemn. The portraits of the eight deities stand guard on either side, and the three altars are all set. The emerald canopy sparkles, and the emperor's presence in the hall is particularly majestic. The imperial carriage comes to a halt, and the golden wheels are silent.
This grand ceremony shows our deep respect for our ancestors and fills us with awe and gratitude. We remember the late emperor's accomplishments, hoping to carry on his great virtues. We pray for heavenly blessings of peace and prosperity, and for good weather all year round. We ask for the emperor's kindness to help the people, so that everyone can enjoy a good life.
