Speaking of ancient rituals, there are so many details to pay attention to! Look at what is written in "Zhengde Dance and Song": "When the humanities are prosperous, great virtues are embracing. The music follows the singing, and the dance symbolizes the nation's achievements." This means that this dance embodies good education and broad virtues, with singing accompanying the dance, showcasing the country's achievements. "Weapons are brandished, and music resounds. Feathered instruments and jade flutes unite to proclaim the emperor's orders." Look, the music and dance resonate in harmony, with various instruments playing majestically to praise the emperor's achievements. "Displaying beauty and goodness, harmonizing with the times. Shining brightly upon all nations." This dance is flawless and timely, shining brightly upon all nations. "All nations are flourishing, following our Jin dynasty. Offering sacrifices to the heavens, destiny is ordained." The world enjoys peace, thanks to the emperor's wisdom, as if it were ordained by heaven. "The emperor's virtues are like a gentle breeze, nurturing the people who live in peace and happiness. With civil and military achievements, we celebrate the harmony of the four seasons. In a land without strife, this prosperous era will endure forever."
Next, let's look at this "Da Yu Wu Ge": "Yu Shun is in motion; truly, the times are great. The time advances its benevolence; the world embraces Yongxi." This means that prosperity and development can only be achieved by following the will of heaven, and this prosperous era is all thanks to the benevolence of the emperor. "Showing the signs of our Xia, Xuan Wen is the foundation. The great enterprise is innovative; our emperor thrives." This praises the great enterprise established by the emperor, which is the foundation of national prosperity. "Radiating brilliance, filled with wisdom. Achievements are accomplished; it is the blessing of the Jin dynasty." The emperor's civil and military achievements have made the country even more prosperous, truly a blessing for the nation! "The revered emperor, firmly receiving the mandate. All things are peaceful; his virtues are widely spread." The emperor receives his mandate from heaven, the world is peaceful, and his virtues are widely known. "Education flourishes, sincere and unpretentious. Profound transformation, leisurely and at ease." Education thrives, society's atmosphere is pure and simple, and the people live in peace and contentment. "Creating music to exalt virtue, akin to the beautiful 'Shao' and 'Huo.' Digging deep into the profound and distant, following the ways of the ancient kings." Through music and dance, virtues are praised, emulating the governance of the ancient sage kings. Finally, there is this poem for the king's birthday celebration: "Honoring Yuan Qing with a birthday toast. The emperor's reign is extended, bringing peace and prosperity to all." This poem is simple and clear, wishing the emperor a long life and peace and prosperity for the nation.
Next, there is a description of the grand occasion of the celebration: "Clearly above, magnificent and illustrious. Three longevity blessings take flight, while the queen rests in solitude." It means that the emperor is holy and illustrious, wishing him longevity and prosperity for his descendants. "All beings gradually grow virtuous, and the world flourishes." The people of the world are all enlightened, and the country's strength is increasing day by day. "At three auspicious moments, morning celebrations converge. China offers tribute, all corners of the world present." This describes the grand occasion of the morning congratulations, with tributes coming from all directions. "Embroidered robes grace the grand courtyard, while the sound of jade resonates throughout the morning court. The court buzzes with activity, as voices celebrate its splendor. Ceremonies are timely, rites are displayed to show." Civil and military officials are dressed in splendid attire, the court is lively, orderly, and grand in etiquette. "May the emperor enjoy boundless longevity and everlasting prosperity." Wishing the emperor boundless longevity and eternal prosperity. "Nine guests gather in the court to present their offerings, creating a scene of solemn dignity." Nine guests gather in the court, presenting offerings, the scene is solemn and dignified. "With solemn reverence, grand ceremonies evoke deep emotion. Stepping forward to receive the auspiciousness, spreading blessings to all nations." The emperor is majestic, ceremonies are solemn, bringing blessings to all people.
During the morning court assembly, everyone shows great respect. The ceremony is grand, with many rituals. Dances showcase great virtues, while songs extol the nine merits. Promoting virtuous deeds and spreading the footprints of peace. The emperor's grace is vast, reaching into the darkness. Appeasing the hundred spirits, gathering auspicious signs. The concealed dragon ascends, while the fierce tiger softens. The phoenix and qilin appear, the withered trees flourish again, the dried-up springs flow once more. Lingzhi flourishes, and thorns turn gentle. An aura of peace emerges, and signs of tranquility multiply. In harmony with the heavens and spirits, it showcases the era of the emperor. Stabilizing the universe, peace for all nations. Heavenly decrees descend, bestowing blessings upon the royal family!
For generations, wise and virtuous sages have appeared, the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors of old, who created great achievements. They laid a solid foundation for the royal lineage, bringing joy and songs among the people, who sincerely support the current emperor. The benevolent governance of Emperor Hengwen is manifest, ushering in an era of prosperity. The era of great prosperity began with the emperor's inauguration. During this time, peaceful and prosperous times were enjoyed, and various ethnic groups settled in harmony. Envoys from all directions brought about the emergence of beautiful things. The people's accomplishments were solidified, leading to the era of great prosperity. Generous blessings were bestowed, ensuring unending prosperity for generations to come. With a strong foundation and a heritage passed down through generations, the aspirations of our ancestors are never forgotten, allowing these great accomplishments to thrive. We will forever praise the divine will, a sign of prosperity for the Jin Dynasty. The wise rulers of the Jin Dynasty governed with compassion, their great virtues harmonizing with heaven and earth, governing the realm as naturally as one refines metal. Profound transformations harmonized with nature, and the highest virtues reached divine insight. The divine blessings spread far and wide, spreading blessings across vast lands. During the dynasty's golden age, every emperor of the Jin Dynasty was wise and virtuous. Heavenly blessings and divine protection ensured stability. Extensive relief efforts for the people amassed great fortune. With destiny gathered, the emperor's achievements were magnified, illuminating the darkest corners. Education flourished across the realm, and blessings spread far and wide, transforming customs and sentiments. The court was filled with talented individuals, and virtuous scholars were abundant. The people were sincere, shunning extravagance and cherishing simplicity. They yearned for their homeland, where swords clashed in the court, and distant tribes came to pay their respects. Envoys from Funan arrived at the court, and the Sushen tribe donned Han attire. Showers of blessings poured down, spreading far and wide, ushering in boundless peace and benevolent rule.
Today is the Chaoyuan Festival, and everyone is in the palace paying homage to the Emperor. The Emperor is sitting on the highest throne; this is a time of peace and prosperity. Everyone is playing harmonious music, offering their most sincere worship. We admire the Emperor's grace, feeling the warmth brought by his benevolence. We are bathed in a simple atmosphere, immersed in a beautiful ambiance. The people of the nation are united, sharing in the prosperity of these peaceful times. The Emperor ascends to the throne, ruling the realm, controlling the shifts of yin and yang, mastering the various phenomena of heaven and earth, ensuring all things thrive and prosper. The Emperor's benevolent rule extends throughout the land, governing the country with merit, maintaining a pure social atmosphere, and ensuring a well-ordered society. The Emperor sincerely worships the spirits of heaven and earth, upholds ritual and music, leading by example.
On this auspicious day of the Yuan Festival, the Emperor hosts a banquet for his ministers at the palace. The sounds of metal and stone echo, while the melodious notes of the flute drift. Playing the music of "Nine Summers," performing the "Cloud Gate Dance" and the "Shao Dance." The Emperor's virtues spread far and wide, his good name renowned. With peace and stability across the land, all thanks to the Emperor's wise and benevolent rule. Through his benevolence, the country flourishes; the Emperor stabilizes the land of Huaxia, leads the various tribes, uses virtue to educate the people, and blends the customs of all ethnic groups into one, bringing stability and prosperity to all. The Emperor values simplicity, promotes honesty and virtue, upholds the royal way, and sets ambitious goals.
The above lines are from the eleventh chapter of the East and West Xiang Music and Dance. Next is a poem dedicated to ancestor worship, praising the merits of emperors from past generations: The great imperial ancestors, wise and discerning, holy and benevolent, established a strong foundation, inherited the will of heaven, continued the great achievements of their forebears, bringing auspicious signs, assisting the people, and honoring the Seven Policies (the sun, moon, and five stars). The brave Emperor Jing, wise and discerning, pacified conflicts, established great achievements, educated the people, set an example for all nations, consolidated the foundation laid by his ancestors, and gloriously upheld the aspirations of his predecessors.
The former emperor, a well-rounded ruler skilled in both civil and military matters, possessed extraordinary wisdom, acted according to the times, and his virtue was as vast as the heavens and the earth. His achievements were celebrated like the changing seasons, leading the country to prosperity and the people to well-being, ushering in the golden age of the Jin Dynasty and ascending to the throne.
Our great emperor, with profound virtue and a deep understanding of the divine, inherited the throne, followed the will of heaven, loved the people like his own children, and embodied kindness and benevolence, establishing a prosperous era of royal benevolence, with the country's fortunes changing rapidly.
The lines above comprise four chapters of the ritual poems for the New Year celebration.
Next are the songs and poems for the Zhengde Dance and Yuyue Dance:
"Zhengde Dance" song:
The emperor shines like the sun in the heavens, with his holy light illuminating the earth. The divine artifacts cycle endlessly, the five virtues succeed each other. The prosperity of the Jin Dynasty, with generations of wise monarchs. The emperor's grace extends throughout the world, enlightening all. The emperor's holy light shines endlessly. The people live in peace and prosperity, the country is safe and stable. The royal path is illuminated, with music and rituals thriving. The music of metal and stone resounds, with many dances gracefully performed in the courtyard. The dance symbolizes celebration, with harmonious and melodious music. Neither the "War Dance" nor the "Yuyue Dance" can compare to it; the dance's rhythm is beautiful, like six shining stars. The dancers move in an orderly and harmonious manner, with natural and graceful changes, the spirit of Taihe permeates heaven and earth, connecting the mortal world with the divine.
"Dayue Dance" song: (content missing)
The Jin Dynasty, truly destined by heaven, with prosperity and the brilliance of three generations of emperors shining once again! The new emperor ascends to the throne, bringing peace to the world, with the country safe and stable, as if the stars themselves have descended to shine upon the earth! The people submit to him, all nations are subject to him; he diligently follows the Five Classics, spreading education and culture, unifying the world under his rule. A special "Dayue" was created to praise his achievements; this prosperous era truly reflects the spirit of royal benevolence, with love and kindness spreading to all living things, even plants and insects receiving his grace, and the common people joyfully praising his grace! This era of prosperity and great achievements is destined to thrive for all time!
This birthday wine is truly delightful to drink! The Great Jin Dynasty celebrates, wishing the emperor boundless longevity! This poem was recited by the nobles at the emperor's birthday banquet. This emperor, majestic and glorious, with dignitaries from all nations paying their respects to him. All the court officials are talented and virtuous. His teachings spread throughout the world, his decrees are widely respected. This grand banquet, complete with rituals and music, had guests gathered, banners waving, music playing, officials bowing, the scene is magnificent, the etiquette solemn, the sounds of gold and jade echoing through the heavens!
This banquet, complete with rituals and music, had guests gathered, wishing His Majesty long life and prosperity for the nation! All the vassals come to congratulate, the atmosphere is lively. Everyone toasts and presents gifts, following the etiquette, with sumptuous dishes and countless cups of fine wine, songs and dances celebrating the peace and prosperity of the era!
Ah, it's really great! The world is at peace, with society harmonious, playing the music of "Xiao Shao," singing the praises of the prosperous era where harvests are abundant, the country is thriving, it's truly an era of peace and prosperity, with endless joy! The emperor is wise and martial, the ministers are loyal, the timely rain, the society is harmonious!
Various auspicious signs appear, truly auspicious, qilins appear, phoenixes soar, sweet springs gush forth, flowing in the Great Jin Dynasty, abundant crops, blessings pouring down, protecting His Majesty, who inherits the heavenly throne, leading all nations, ascending to the throne according to divine will, embodying sacred virtues, the legacy of four generations of emperors shines once more, establishing a great legacy, with strong national power, clear governance, moral integrity shining, laying the foundation of the Jin Dynasty, the nation's fortunes continue to thrive!
In the Taishi era, the simultaneous appearance of the phoenix and dragon was truly an auspicious sign! In this prosperous era, the nation's fortune flourishes, and there is peace everlasting! The territory is vast, the people live in peace and contentment, the literary tradition is rich, and historical facts can be verified; truly a governance marked by widespread virtue, the country's fortune is flourishing, and the prestige extends far and wide, reaching the heavens! Future generations will inherit this legacy, and the country's prosperity will be long-lasting, living as long as heaven and earth!
Next is the praise of the emperor's virtues: the enlightened emperor reigns over all lands, aligning with the will of heaven and resonating with the people's hearts. The brilliance of three generations of emperors culminates here, laying the foundation for greatness in the Taishi era. The emperor's virtues shine as brilliantly as the sun and moon, and his blessings spread throughout the four seasons. The realm is at peace, and the people thrive; truly a prosperous era!
All of this is destined by the heavens; may the benevolent and righteous emperor receive the heavens' blessings! Like the ancient three emperors, virtues are flourishing, understanding the laws of celestial movements, commanding the seven planets, each official diligently fulfilling their duties, everything is in perfect order, like gods! The world stands united in heart and virtue, fostering a governance steeped in ultimate benevolence and compassion, aiding the populace and nurturing all beings, like the ancient gods of cultivation, blessings are widespread, and future generations will enjoy these blessings. Those talented and virtuous individuals, with their virtues widely known, will be blessed by future generations.
Behold the solemn and majestic temples of worship; the imperial palace flings open its four gates to welcome visitors from all directions. The emperor handles state affairs with diligence and a deep love for the people, even during famine, he remains ever mindful of the people, often neglecting his own meals. Once the grand ceremony concludes, the festive atmosphere reaches its zenith.
The emperor still travels the world, ascending Kunlun Mountain and Zengcheng, riding a flying dragon, soaring into the sky, crowned with the sun and moon, adorned with five stars, cloaked in rainbows, brandishing the comet flag, enveloped in auspicious clouds, enjoying a prosperous and flourishing scene, touring the eight directions, visiting the heavenly court, following the will of heaven, harmonizing yin and yang, regulating the four seasons, shining brightly, spreading benevolence, extending benefits to all corners, spreading great enlightenment, displaying divine majesty, embracing the world, welcoming guests from all directions, paying homage at the Changhe Gate, feasting in the Purple Palace.
Look at the five flags fluttering in the wind, the resonant clang of bells and chimes ringing in unison, officials from the four counties standing in formation, playing the music of "Shao" and "Wu," the sound of metal and stone resounding, banners fluttering, the Eight Yis performing a graceful dance, singing the elegant odes from the "Book of Songs" to the accompaniment of music, everyone celebrating together, honoring the achievements of the holy ruler.
This magnificent scene, like a refreshing breeze, refreshing the spirits of the people, the emperor leading heroes and valiant warriors, creating the universe, pacifying the barbarians, shining brightly, wise and virtuous, surpassing all emperors of the past, securing a legacy for generations to come, leaving a lasting legacy for thousands of years!
Our ancestors, illustrious and distinguished, assisting the emperors in governing the world, acting in accordance with the mandate of heaven, powerful and grand, bringing about a prosperous and peaceful era, opening up vast paths, establishing the foundation of imperial rule.
Our forefathers, brilliant and splendid, with outstanding achievements, rectifying the situation, saving the people, with unparalleled merits, bringing peace to the world, stability to the Nine Provinces, favored by heaven, heralding the dawn of a wise dynasty.
Our fathers, wise and courageous, of noble virtue, bestowed with virtues by heaven, enjoying great fortune, establishing imperial rule, founding the Jin Dynasty, bestowing blessings on future generations.
Our wise and virtuous emperor, soaring like a dragon in the sky, in communion with the gods, with profound and inscrutable virtues, receiving the grace of heaven, blessing the world, blessed by heaven, ensuring a lasting legacy for all time.
Above are the fifteen chapters of the New Year's Day celebration.
Our emperor, unmatched in benevolence and righteousness, his virtue widely revered, radiating like the sun and the moon, comparable to the heavens and the earth, guiding the kings, emulating the Yellow Emperor Xuanyuan, establishing national policies, proclaiming to all corners of the realm.
Civil and military officials, in neat formation, dressed in their finest, waiting for dawn to pay their respects, savoring exquisite delicacies, playing grand music, looking up to the emperor's grace, shining brightly.
The protocols have been set, the grand banquet has begun, civil and military officials stand solemnly in the court, partaking in drink moderately, with dignified appearance, the emperor sits graciously upon his throne, always maintaining a respectful attitude.
The Song of Nine Achievements has been sung, the glorious scenes of six dynasties reemerge, virtue and grace resonate throughout the music, promoting education through poetry, the world is peaceful, everything flourishes, the celebration has continued for a long time, culminating here.
Above are the four chapters of the music "Four Summers". (Guests enter, the four compartments play the "Yushuo Tune". The emperor enters the hall, the four compartments play the "Jiangjiang Tune". The emperor changes into court attire, the four compartments play the "Yushuo" and "Jiangjiang" tunes. The Huangzhong and Taicu compartments play the "Fazhang" and "Nine Achievements" tunes.)
The great Song Dynasty, blessed and enduring, inheriting the foundation of the Han Dynasty, originating from the Tang Dynasty, with luminous and upright virtues, brilliant achievements, equal to the heavens, residing in all directions.
Our emperor, wise and enlightened, outstanding in virtue, receiving a decree from heaven, granting him auspicious signs, the dragon soars in the violet heavens, establishing the capital of the Song Dynasty, illuminating the universe, shining brightly.
Above are the two chapters of the grand court ceremony. (The Guxi compartment plays.)
Offering birthday wine in reverence, celebrating the emperor's grace, the sacred light spreads across heaven and earth, radiating as brilliantly as the three celestial lights.
Once upon a time, Duke You celebrated his birthday, and everyone sang a song called "Shangshou Song" in the Huangzhong Gong mode. The song goes: "The Song Dynasty, the nation thrives, the emperor is wise, and the realm is at peace. After the world is stable, people from all directions come to pay their respects, with grand ceremonies and unprecedented prosperity." The powerful song evokes a sense of peace and prosperity.
Next, three more songs were sung in front of the palace, in a style reminiscent of metal and stone, even more solemn and magnificent. The lyrics go: "The morning sun shines on everything, celebrating the flourishing era, with complete rituals and music, brilliant laws and systems. People from all directions come to congratulate, the royal palace is magnificent, civil and military officials assemble, listening to wonderful music with respectful expressions, the scene is grand and resplendent, with drums and music resonating across the heavens and the earth, etiquette covering the inside and outside of the palace. Everyone offers prayers and wishes for peace and prosperity, sharing the peaceful and prosperous era."
Five pieces of jade were presented, three silks were respectfully offered, and the nobles performed the jade music in the beautiful palace, while the Empress graciously accepted, sitting in the south to receive the morning congratulations. The Emperor accepted the good wishes, and the people celebrated together in harmony with their ruler, creating an atmosphere of auspiciousness! The song further extols the Emperor's virtues: "The Emperor is kind and gentle, in harmony with the principles of Yin and Yang, his virtues are gentle and kind, ushering in countless auspicious signs. Auspicious jade shines, lucky bells ring, the mythical phoenix dances, the concealed dragon soars, signs of auspiciousness frequently appear, dew falls, trees entwine, crops grow together, auspicious signs from heaven, blessings abound, various auspicious signs manifest, truly fulfilling all kinds of omens."
The singing voice finally said, "The emperor's grace extends to the remote areas, the people live and work in peace, blessed by the heavens, the four seas are at peace, the country flourishes, the emperor is wise, and the world is at peace. The three spirits gather together, auspicious signs appear, only under the rule of the current emperor can this happen. The emperor practices the royal way, spreads kindness, follows the will of heaven, and emulates the ancestors. His virtue operates like the four seasons, his sincerity moves the heavens, his grace extends throughout the world, and all nations are stable." This song beautifully captures the scene of a prosperous and peaceful era!
Indeed, this prosperous era is truly a peaceful and prosperous era! The land of propriety shines within the imperial palace, and the remote regions also bow to the majesty of the Great Han. Look at those ethnic minorities, all dressed in our Han clothing, wearing crowns. The emperor's virtues are like sunshine and rain, nurturing the people, spreading education throughout the world, strengthening the country, and shining brightly!
Furthermore, this prosperous era of the Kaiyuan Dynasty is so prosperous! Princes and kings from all over the country come to pay homage to the emperor, offering various treasures, creating a truly breathtaking spectacle. They witness the court's traditions and regulations, listen to the emperor's teachings, feel the beauty of the era of peace and prosperity, and immerse themselves in the joy brought by this peaceful and prosperous era. This unprecedented scene of prosperity will surely continue to thrive forever!
During the Yongchu era, the emperor's virtues became even more prominent, governing the country, implementing benevolent policies, maintaining social order, deeply influencing the people, allowing them to live and work in peace, and ushering in an era of prosperity. The emperor promotes education, enforces discipline, worships the gods, and prays for blessings. This scene of prosperity clearly shows that the Great Han is favored by the heavens!
This grand ceremony, with complete etiquette and music, a variety of musical instruments, a magnificent scene, and a majestic momentum. The music performed includes powerful pieces like "Wu" and "Huo," peaceful pieces like "Xianchi," and melodious pieces like "Nanfeng." The dances are seamlessly coordinated, with civil and military officials singing and dancing, praising the flourishing age.
The Emperor's rule of virtue is noble, the borders are stable, the world is peaceful, the people follow etiquette, and the social atmosphere is positive. This prosperous era will last forever! We celebrate the beauty of this flourishing age, celebrate the hard-earned success, and praise the Emperor's achievements. The glory of this prosperous era will last forever!
The above are the lyrics of ten songs praising the prosperous era, including the performances of "Chenxi," "Tizhihe," "Wangdao," "Kaiyuanchen," and "Liyourong" in the Huangzhong scale, and "Wuyu," "Huaihuangyi," "Huangyouji," "Weiyongchu," and "Wangdaochun" in the Taicu scale.
This grand ceremony is truly auspicious and splendid! The sun shines on the earth, the etiquette is solemn, and the songs reflect the Emperor's virtue, and the dances celebrate his achievements. The palace is majestic, the musical instruments resonate harmoniously, and although the 'Shao' music is ancient, the current prosperous scene embodies nearly all of its glory. The Emperor's aspirations are harmoniously united with the music, spreading virtue throughout the world, consolidating the royal foundation, aligning with the heavens, spreading knowledge across the land, fostering natural harmony in society. Like the beautiful clouds decorating the sky, all things in the world are immersed in this prosperous era. As we play the 'Shao' music, this prosperous scene will continue forever!
The above is an excerpt from "Qianwu Ge," adapted from the "Zhengde Dance" of the Jin Dynasty, performed with the Ruibin scale.
After the emperor ascended the throne, this was indeed a blessing bestowed by heaven. His virtues were genuinely accumulated from within, and his governance was known far and wide. Like a dragon soaring in the sky, his appearance and virtues were admired by all nations. He was wise and intelligent like a deity, calm and profound when addressing state affairs. Needless to say, his moral influence permeated all aspects of life. He reported his accomplishments to the heavens, etching his merits in history. He was cautious and compassionate, establishing systems in accordance with the will of heaven, thereby ensuring the nation's stability and harmony. The borders overseas were peaceful, and the entire nation enjoyed peace and prosperity. The emperor sat on the throne, listened to the affairs of state, and governed the people. Then, he performed the dance of "Da Yu," demonstrating reverence for heaven and earth, and a deep love for his nation, praying for the nation's everlasting prosperity.
(From the chapter "After Dance Song" in "Da Yu Dance" by Rui Binxiang.)
Next, the ensemble played "Su Cheng Music," with lyrics split into two sections: the first section expressed our inheritance of the ancestral tradition of filial piety, serving our great emperor with utmost reverence. People from every corner of the nation gathered to celebrate, expressing their respect for the emperor. The ceremony was orderly, the procession was majestic, the air was fragrant with incense, and the palace was resplendently adorned. Treasures were displayed in front of the hall, exquisite wines and sumptuous dishes filled the courtyard, musical instruments resounded, and melodies filled the air. The meticulously arranged ceremony was both solemn and grand, as we humbly welcomed the grace of heaven, and the emperor's flourishing reign was blessed by heaven.
The second paragraph says, we respectfully follow the ritual of sacrifice, the emperor's glorious image signifies the realm. We quickly and respectfully complete the sacrifice, with rich and beautifully presented offerings. The imperial palace stands solemnly, the altar is tall and majestic. Blessings come down from the heavens, and various spirits participate in the sacrifice. With devout hearts, we await the arrival of the night, then in the morning we line up neatly to pay our respects. At dawn, everything bathes in the sunlight, an auspicious aura fills the air. Good wishes spread far and wide, the splendid sacrificial ceremony is even more awe-inspiring; may the emperor's virtues be passed down through the ages, and may the country prosper.
(Performance of "Su Cheng Music" lyrics Chapter 2:)
Next, the sacrificial animals are brought forth, and the ensemble performs "Yin Sheng Music": the lyrics are: With sincere hearts, we sacrifice with pure intentions, filial hearts offering to the spirits. Respectfully offering the grains, respectfully cleaning the offerings. The well-fed livestock is prepared, the offerings are abundant and sufficient. Inheriting the ancestral sacrificial traditions, expressing respect for the emperor. The fragrance fills the air, flames burning brightly, the spirits witness all, what a magnificent offering!
(Performance of "Yin Sheng Music" lyrics:)
Finally, the offerings are presented, and the "Jia Jian Music" is played:
(Performance of "Jia Jian Music" lyrics by presenting beans and blood:)
The preparations for the sacrificial ceremony were quite thorough! The ritual procedures were orderly, with each of the six officials diligently fulfilling their roles. Everything was arranged properly. The offerings were carefully selected, and the ceremony was solemn and grand. Everyone cleansed their body and mind, offering prayers to the spirits with devout hearts, awaiting the spirits' descent. The offerings were abundant and neatly arranged, with music resonating in the air. The atmosphere in the sacrificial tent was solemn and reverent, and the participants were dressed neatly and respectfully. The morning sun shone on their clothes as they waited with devout hearts for the spirits to descend. They hoped the spirits would bless the emperor, bring peace throughout the country, and gather the nations. This sacrificial ceremony expressed deep filial piety, with a grand and solemn scene where officials performed their duties in an orderly manner.
Next was the ceremony to welcome the spirits, as the music of "Shao Xia Le" filled the air: "The palace is majestic, the halls are magnificent, the altar is bright, and the lights are dazzling. The spirits seem to gaze upon us, as a fragrant aroma filled the jade hall. The circular flames flicker brightly in the night, and the square pool sparkles with clarity. Golden branches hang from the trees, and emerald lanterns are hung high. The calm water reflects the night sky, with the brilliant Milky Way spanning the horizon. We began the sacrificial rites early, our hearts filled with reverence. We hope the spirits will descend and bless our land."
The emperor entered the temple through the north gate, as the music of "Yong Zhi Le" played: "The emperor is wise and filial, with a magnificent carriage gliding forward. The night is tranquil, and the morning is serene. The golden sunlight shines, and the jade-like breeze caresses. We adhere to the sacrificial rites, respectfully offering prayers to our ancestors."
Tai Zhu sang triumphantly on the altar, singing two songs: "The emperor carries the important duty of conducting sacrifices, performing rituals on auspicious days. The nine gates of the palace swing open, the four divine guardians protect the sacrificial grounds. The solemn music plays, the procession is perfectly arranged. The spirits accept the offerings, the exquisite offerings release a fragrant scent. Jade wine cups and cassia wooden utensils are neatly arranged, the ritualists are diligent, solemn, and earnest."
"The grand sacrificial ceremony pays homage to our ancestors. The sacrificial rites are conducted with utmost precision, without any mistakes. The offerings are exquisite, the sacrificial sincerity communicates with heaven and earth. The singing resonates powerfully, the music is melodious; the emperor's deep filial devotion stirs the heavens and earth, expressing reverence for ancestors. The great filial piety moves the spirits of heaven and earth."
Finally, in the shrine of the Empress Zhang, the music and dance of "Zhang De Kai Rong" resounded: "Blessings from the spirits, commending the Empress's holy virtues. Praising the Empress's achievements, extolling the Empress's grace. Auspicious energy surrounds, songs praise the Empress's merits. Forever praising the Empress's achievements, praying for the prosperity of the country."
Wow, these are all lyrics for court sacrificial music and dance! Let's go through them sentence by sentence, slowly.
First, let's talk about the shrine of the Empress Zhao, which is so grand, playing the music and dance of "Zhao De Kai Rong." The lyrics were written by Emperor Ming, roughly meaning: the spirit of Empress Zhao is as majestic as an elephant, inheriting the excellent traditions of her ancestors, like the brilliant morning glow rising into the purple sky. Her teachings spread throughout heaven and earth, her martial prowess shines throughout the imperial palace. The grand ceremony celebrates her virtues and beauty.
Next is the sacred hall of Empress Dowager Xuan, performing "Xuande's Triumph." The lyrics, written by the Ming Emperor, mean: the Pole Star shines, and the Earth Axis reflects its starlight, its radiance illuminates the world, and auspicious energy fills the heavens and earth. The palace is filled with a peaceful ambiance, and radiance envelops the high palace. Beautiful jade carvings celebrate her virtues, while golden musical instruments proclaim her achievements.
The emperor returns to the east wall, partakes in the ceremonial wine, and performs the music and dance of "Jiashi." The lyrics say: the sacrifice is grand, the times are prosperous. The emperor receives the blessings of heaven, the imperial reign is secure, and auspicious signs gather. The emperor governs, the world is peaceful, his virtues shine like the sun at noon. Light shines in all directions, and blessings flow like the ocean. Auspicious energy fills the world, and the great achievements will be passed down through the ages.
During the farewell ceremony, "Zhaoxia" is performed in two sections. The first section expresses: filial piety is sincere, sacrifices are grand, the spirits find peace, and joy abounds. The chariot departs, soaring into the sky, extending into the emptiness of all directions, spreading throughout the heavens and earth. Auspicious energy flows, and solemn winds blow. The second section says: Empress Dowager Zhao's teachings resonate with people's hearts, and her grace commands respect. We remember the imperial spirit, holding it in deep remembrance. As we lower the feather fan and bring the music and dance to a close, we put down the chariot and return to the palace. Blessings spread, and the country's fortune prospers.
Finally, the emperor arrived at the side chamber and presented the music and dance of "Xiu Cheng." The lyrics are: Fine wine and food are ready, offerings are all displayed. Sincere sacrifices, complete rituals, the music resounded joyfully. After the blessings are finished, the music and dance stop. The carriage slowly starts, returning to the palace. The deities manifest, their brilliance illuminating the palace. Deities from all directions protect us, everything goes smoothly. The emerald canopy sparkles, casting a radiant glow; the jade whip rests, and the golden carriage echoes with music. We sincerely express our filial piety, our hearts filled with respect. In remembrance of the previous emperors' achievements, we strive to learn from their exemplary virtues. With blessings from the deities, may the world know peace, radiance spreading, and the people enjoy peace and prosperity. Overall, these lyrics express deep reverence for our royal ancestors and heartfelt blessings for the nation's prosperity. The lyrics are splendid, rich in meaning, truly deserving of their place in the royal sacrificial music and dance!
