Speaking of this grand ceremony, it is truly magnificent! Look at the clear sky, the heavens above, the music coming from Yiyang, the rituals are solemn and dignified. The singing is melodious, reflecting profound grace, and the dancing is exquisite due to remarkable accomplishments. The palaces and courtyards are neatly arranged, with zithers lining the steps. Various musical instruments play together, producing harmonious and delightful melodies. Although the melodies of "Xiaoshao" are ancient, their grandeur still resonates to this day. The melodies of "Xiaoshao" resonate with the principles of governance, spreading virtue and moral teachings, much like the teachings of Confucius. This grand ceremony glorifies the imperial enterprise, harmonizes with the heavens, educates the world, bringing natural harmony to all things, as splendid as the clouds in the sky, demonstrating the emperor's majesty. The people flourish throughout the realm, much like the prosperous era of Yao and Shun. Let the music of "Shao" play, so that this prosperous era may last forever!
This "Prelude Dance Song" is truly magnificent! Next comes the "Postlude Dance Song": this grand celebration is a divine blessing, the result of accumulated virtues, with the royal business stable and the country prosperous and the people at peace. The emperor soars like a dragon through the heavens, becoming a role model for all nations. The emperor is sage and martial, managing state affairs with poise in the court, composed and wise. He imparts wisdom without uttering a word, and all beings can feel his grace. Offering sacrifices to the heavens, commemorating his achievements. His governance is meticulous, imbued with compassion. He follows the will of heaven, establishes systems to ensure stability, and receives divine protection. Foreign lands submit, the domestic realm is peaceful, the emperor sits majestically in the palace, guiding his subjects. And so, the music of "Dayu" is played, as if heaven and man are one. This harmonious era shall be cherished for generations.
Next are the lyrics of "Sùchéng Le," with a total of two chapters: the first chapter praises the emperor for being filial, respecting his parents, receiving blessings from above, and celebrating together with the world. The ceremonial dance is conducted in an orderly manner, the performers are dignified and well-groomed, the instruments are splendid, and the palace is grand. Valuable offerings are arranged on the altar, and the courtyard is filled with exquisite wine. The instruments play, the melodies are enchanting, everything has been meticulously prepared, and everything is in order. The emperor offers his sincere sacrifices and receives blessings from above. The second chapter continues to praise the emperor's dignified demeanor, solemn presence, swift and respectful actions, and plentiful sacrificial livestock. The palace is solemn, the foundation is solid, heaven bestows blessings, and all officials perform their duties. Devoutly waiting at night and lining up for morning worship, the sun shines brightly, bringing life to all. Grand celebrations, beautiful sacrifices, praising the emperor's wisdom, praying for the prosperity of the country.
Finally, the lyrics of "Yǐnshēng Music": (the original text does not provide the lyrics here)
Wow, this sacrificial ceremony is really grand! First of all, the area must be thoroughly cleaned, the ceremony must be conducted with reverence, and ancestors must be respected. Then, prepare the sacrificial offerings; the grains and livestock must be properly prepared. Look, these animals are well-fed and robust, the offerings are plentiful, all for offering sacrifices to our ancestors, expressing our respect for the heavens. Incense rises, the sacrificial fire spreads everywhere, the spirits observe all this, and they must be very pleased.
Next, let the music begin! The Music of Jiajian has started, and the lyrics are as follows:
"Zhao Yi Ji Si, Li Rong Xian Ju. Liu Dian Shi Wen, Jiu Si Zhao Xu. Sheng Rou Ji Zhao, Yi Gang Ji Chen. Gong Di Wei Qing, Jing Shi Wei Shen. Jia Bian Zai Yu, Jian Zu Zhong Jian. Jie Dong Xuan Yue, Sheng Liu Jin Xian. Yi Yi Wei Wo, Wei Wei Yan Wei. Jie Cheng Xi Jian, Duan Fu Chen Hui. Sheng Ling Li Zhi, Yi Wo Huang Ze. Shang Sui Si Yu, Xia Yang Wan Guo. Yong Yan Xiao Xiang, Xiao Xiang You Rong. Bin Liao Zan Lie, Su Su Yong Yong."
These lyrics describe the solemn ceremony of sacrifice and sincere devotion, hoping that the spirits will bless the country with peace and the people with happiness. Then, it is the animal sacrifices, and the lyrics for this part are also recorded, "Right Evening Livestock Lyrics."
Now, we welcome the spirits, play "Shao Xia Music"! The lyrics are:
"Yu Gong You You, Fu Dian Wei Wei. Xuan Chu Su Zhao, Gang Bi Tong Hui. Fu Yi Shen Ning, Yu Tang Yan Xin. Yuan Huo Xi Yao, Fang Shui Chao Qing. Jin Zhi Wei Shu, Cui Zheng Zhu Xian. Ting Bo Cheng Su, Hua Han Fu Tian. Gong Shi Ji Su, Qian Xin You Mu. Yang Jiang Huang Ling, Fu Ning Yi Zuo."
These lyrics depict the solemn and dignified atmosphere of the ceremony, expressing reverence and offering prayers to the spirits.
The Emperor approaches! The Emperor enters the temple from the north gate, and the music played is "Yong Zhi Le":
"Huang Ming Chang Yi, Xiao Rong Yi Zhao. Luan Hua Yu Tiao, Fu Han Han Han. Shen Shen Jia Ye, Yi Yi Xiu Zhao. Xing Jin Jing Song, Bu Yu Feng Shao. Shi Cheng Si Ze, Su Dui Yin Chao."
These lyrics are truly magnificent!
Finally, Tai Zhu sang out at the sacrificial site, singing two chapters of songs, the lyrics are recorded as follows: "The emperor's appearance at the sacrifice, the practice of the times. Nine levels open the gate, the four spirits attend. Reverently we chant, as the people bow. Rest the spirits and present our offerings, the offerings are exquisite and fragrant. Jade ornaments are arranged, and the cassia plates are displayed. The officials select the rites, carefully and diligently." This song, I believe, was solemn and respectful, expressing reverence for the emperor and the spirits. The entire sacrificial ceremony was grand in scale and full of ceremonial atmosphere!
The sacrificial ceremony was grand and solemn, expressing our reverence for the empress dowager. The ceremony was meticulous, the words sincere, without any slack. The offerings were exquisite, the fragrance permeated the air, and the heavens could surely feel our sincerity. The singing was loud, the music was harmonious, creating a solemn and respectful atmosphere. The emperor expressed his respect for his ancestors through practical actions, showcasing the greatness of filial piety. Filial piety is so deep, as great as the spirits.
The lyrics of the "Zhang Dekai Rong" music and dance:
The ethereal auspicious spirits, praising the holy consort. Carrying the imperial emblem, spreading the glory and celebration. The upper latitude is entwined with auspiciousness, the middle latitude is adorned with praise. Forever belonging to the glorious will, connecting the prosperous and auspicious fate. This song praises Empress Zhang's holy virtues, praises the auspiciousness and blessings she brings, and prays for the prosperity of the royal family.
The lyrics of the "Zhaode Kairong" music and dance:
The sacred spirits intertwine, following the rituals and winds. Radiating the splendor of the crimson blossoms, ascending to the purple sky of auspiciousness. Training the shapes of the heavens and earth, martial achievements in the celestial palace. Soaring with the golden fragrance, embodying virtue and appearance. This is a song and dance created by Emperor Ming to praise Empress Zhao's glorious image and great achievements, as well as her contributions to the royal family.
The lyrics of the "Xuande Kairong" music and dance:
The heavenly axis shines, the earthly axis gleams. Uniting the world's light, shining with joy and auspiciousness. The fragrance of the central universe, the scenery entwined in the heavens. Carving the virtues in jade, transmitting the emblem in golden brilliance.
This is also a song and dance lyric created by Emperor Ming for Empress Dowager Xuan, praising her sacred virtues and contributions to the country, and praying for national peace and prosperity.
On the east wall, the emperor accepted the blessing wine and played the "Jia Shi" music and dance:
Rituals are harmonious, blessings flourish. The emperor receives divine blessings, and the imperial reign is filled with peace. Residing at the peak of prosperity, the dwelling is adorned with royal virtues. Clear and bright overlooking the four directions, the essence spreads to all corners of the land. The sound of benevolence resonates across the vast seas, illuminating the universe with radiant light. Divine celebrations intertwine with blessings for the world, great achievements that know no bounds.
This lyric praises the emperor's wisdom and achievements, as well as the beautiful scene of national peace and prosperity, praying for the prosperity of the country and the eternal stability of the nation.
When bidding farewell to the gods, the "Zhao Xia" music and dance was played, with lyrics divided into two chapters:
Great filial piety is on full display, the ceremonies are abundant and rich. The joy abounds. The chariot ascends and whirls, soaring through the azure sky. Extending to the eight voids, creating openings in the four realms. The scenery is graceful, and a solemn breeze flows.
The teachings of Zhao Rong embody the spirit of the winds. Yearning for the imperial spirits, cultivating profound reverence. Unfurling the ceremonial feather, stopping at the splendid tree. Turning away from the jade ornament, holding the jade carriage upright. The flowing river heralds the nation's progress.
These two chapters express respect and attachment to the spirits, praying for the blessings of peace and prosperity for the country.
Finally, the emperor played the "Xiu Cheng" music and dance in the side hall:
(The lyrics of "Xiu Cheng" music and dance are missing and cannot be translated.)
The entire sacrificial ceremony is solemn and reverent, with an unbroken stream of songs and music, expressing the royal family's deep reverence for their ancestors and hope for the nation's future.
Goodness, what a scene! All the wine has been set out, and there were plenty of lavish offerings. The sacrificial ceremony was held with great grandeur, with all the proper rituals and music, and a lively atmosphere. After the prayers were finished, the ceremony came to a temporary pause. The emperor's carriage slowly drove out of the palace gate and returned to the main hall of the palace. The emperor exuded solemn majesty; the palace was silent, illuminated only by the sunlight. Eight deities stood watch over the altar, and the Three Officials had departed. The emerald canopy shimmered, and the emperor's presence filled the entire palace. The jade whip stopped, and the golden carriage ceased its advance. Reflecting on the importance of filial piety, my heart was filled with awe and emotion. Aspiring to follow the emperor's example, I hope for divine blessings, national prosperity and peace across the realm. May the emperor's grace bless the people, and may they live and thrive in peace and contentment.
The whole ceremony, from preparation to conclusion, was so solemn and sacred! "Offering libations and presenting offerings, with all auspicious vessels and platters. Feast in harmony and sincerity, with rites and music in abundance." You see, the wine and liquor are ready, the offerings are all in place, the ceremony is conducted with seriousness, and the rites and music are elaborate and grand! Once the prayers are complete, the ceremony pauses, "The prayer is over, the order is suspended." The emperor's chariot moves, then returns, "The chariot moves in the courtyard, the carriage returns to the majestic hall." Throughout the process, the emperor exudes a commanding presence, "The divine ceremony resides in the scene, the grandeur of the Han Dynasty is palpable." The spirits watch over, ensuring the ceremony's success, "The eight spiritual cases guard, the three altars open the way." Truly magnificent and filled with extraordinary energy! "The emerald canopy shines brightly, the brilliance is concentrated in the palace." The emperor's procession also stops, "The jade reins come to a rest, and the golden chariot resonates with music." Throughout this process, the emperor's filial piety is truly touching! "The ceremony embodies true filial piety, deeply touching the heart." I hope he can continue to learn from the excellent qualities of his ancestors, "Learning from the imperial legacy, reflecting on the profound examples set by ancestors." Finally, of course, I hope for national peace and prosperity, and favorable weather conditions! "May the gods bestow their blessings, illuminating all corners of the realm. Looking up to the emperor's emblem while caring for all living beings below."
