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卷五十三 志第二十二: 禮志六

Volume 53 Treatises 23: Rites 6

Chapter 53 of 遼史 · History of Liao
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1
Treatise on Rites, Part Six (Auspicious Ceremonies, Part Two)〉
2
使 殿 殿使西殿 殿殿 西殿 使 使殿 使 殿使西 殿使殿 殿 殿 退 使使 使 殿 退 殿使 殿使 使 使殿 使
Court Congratulations on the Empress Dowager's Birthday: On the appointed day, officials attend court; envoys arrive at the curtain pavilion; when the ranks are formed, the proceedings follow the usual ceremony. The Empress Dowager ascends the hall and takes her seat; the emperor sits to one side on the east. A Khitan chamberlain announces names from the dais; Khitan and Han officials, with the Song envoy and deputy placed in the Hanlin Academician formation, enter through the eastern and western tunnel gates, unite in rank to offer congratulations, and the head of the formation ascends to wish long life; they are dismissed by formation—all as on New Year's Day. The Music Office performs the greeting with seven bows; Khitan and Han officials enter and present wine—all as on New Year's Day, except that the proclaimed response is termed "Imperial edict." The emperor leaves the imperial seat and presents birthday gifts to the Empress Dowager. When this is finished, the emperor bows twice again from the dais; all officials below bow twice as well. The emperor returns to the imperial seat. Officials are led out by formation; the chief minister and the Grand Prince of the North ascend the western steps to report that Khitan officials are presenting tribute. Next come Han officials and tribute from all circuits. Crane-Control officers set out carrying couches and perform the greeting; when four bows are finished; The introducing commissioner bows and announces the civil and military officials from such-and-such office downward, and tribute from Goryeo, Western Xia, and all circuits. On the dais the Commissioner of the Palace Secretariat announces that each tribute item is to be delivered to the appropriate office; Crane-Control officers cry assent. When the carrying couches have passed, Khitan and Han officials thank in turn with five bows. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties and are led out. The Music Office and envoys presenting circuit tribute thank in the same way. Khitan officials thank for the proclaimed banquet and are led onto the dais to take their places; Han officials and the Song envoy and deputy enter through the east tunnel gate, face west to thank for the banquet, as on New Year's Day. They are acclaimed to ascend the dais and attend; officials and envoys ascend, take their places, and stand—as before. Cup-attendants and musicians ascend the dais; attendants enter and stand in the eastern corridor—all likewise. The imperial couch is brought in; the emperor offers the first round of wine; officials take their places and bow in accompaniment. When the Empress Dowager drinks, officials seated on the dais and those standing in attendance all bow and exclaim "Ten thousand years!" They are acclaimed to attend to their duties and remain standing. When the Empress Dowager finishes her drink, she personally bestows wine on the emperor. The emperor kneels, finishes his drink, withdraws to his cushioned place, and bows twice; all officials bow with him. If the emperor personally bestows wine on envoys, chief ministers, officials, or the Song envoy and deputy, they all drink standing. The emperor takes his seat; officials and envoys who are to be seated are acclaimed to bow and exclaim "Ten thousand years!" They are acclaimed to take their seats. Wine is served to officials at the square-mat banquet in the Duo Hall, as on New Year's Day. At the first round, attendants in both corridors bow, exclaim "Ten thousand years!" and take their seats. A prince presents wine, as on New Year's Day. If the Empress Dowager personally bestows wine on a prince, he kneels to drink; when finished, he withdraws to the upper terrace and bows five times. He is acclaimed to attend to his duty. Three rounds of wine are presented on the dais; when pastry and tea are finished, the Music Office kneels and delivers the formal address; officials, envoys, and attendants in the corridors are motioned to stand. When the shouted motto ends, they are acclaimed to bow in the same way. Serving tea and serving dishes proceed in the same way. The grand feast is brought in; congee bowls are presented. Seven rounds of wine are presented on the dais; when the musical pieces for envoys and officials end, attendants in the corridors are motioned to rise, bow, and exclaim "Ten thousand years!" and "Farewell, all!"; receiving officers lead them out through both gates. At the suite break, officials and envoys are motioned to rise and bow with bodies bent. They are acclaimed to bow; all bow and exclaim "Ten thousand years!" They are acclaimed to attend to their duties, and officials and envoys are led down from the dais. Khitan officials, having thanked for the completion of the banquet, withdraw. Han officials and the Song envoy and deputy perform the dancing bow; when five bows are finished, they are acclaimed: "Farewell, all!" When they have finished exiting the tunnel gate, the gate office reports that nothing remains; the Empress Dowager and emperor rise.
3
使
On the Holy Response festival, when Song first sent envoys to congratulate on birthdays and New Year's Day, this ceremony was instituted; the full account is therefore given in the Treatise on Guest Ritual.
4
The five bows consist of: bow, rise; double bow, rise; kneel and tuck the tablet, perform three dancing bows and three kowtows, withdraw the tablet, bow in place, and rise; bow, rise; double bow, rise. The bow performed in place is also termed "prostrate and rise." In the Treatise on Guest Ritual officials are said to "take their seats"; in this ceremony they are said to use "high mats," which differ from square mats.
5
使殿 使 西 殿 使 殿 殿殿 使 使 殿 使 殿 殿 殿殿 使殿 殿 使 使
Court Congratulations on the Emperor's Birthday: When officials and envoys have formed their ranks, the emperor ascends the hall and takes his seat. Officials and the envoy and deputy enter, unite in rank to offer congratulations, then withdraw in formation—all as at the Empress Dowager's birthday. The chief minister and the Grand Prince of the North present the lists of tribute memorials from all circuits. The Music Office performs the greeting with seven bows. Officials enter through the eastern and western gates and unite in rank to bow twice. They are acclaimed to present wine; the head of the formation ascends the dais and presents wine. The Commissioner of the Palace Secretariat proclaims the response; the assembled officials thank for the imperial instruction and are dismissed by formation. Music is played; the emperor finishes his drink; the ranks unite. The head of the formation descends from the dais; they withdraw by formation. All proceed as on New Year's Day. The presentation of tribute follows the Empress Dowager's birthday ceremony throughout. The emperor proceeds to the Empress Dowager's hall; close imperial kin, maternal relatives, and senior ministers all accompany him, escorting the Empress Dowager to the emperor's hall to take her seat. The Empress Dowager rides in a small palanquin; the emperor walks in step beside it; officials proceed in ordered ranks; the Commissioner of the Palace Secretariat, the various offices, and the gate office mass their escort and lead the way. The Music Office strikes up; Crane-Control performs the greeting with four bows. Officials escorting the imperial procession all stand waiting to the south of the mountain pavilion. The Empress Dowager enters the side chamber; the envoy and deputy and the officials are motioned into the curtain pavilion. The Empress Dowager ascends the hall and takes her seat; the emperor sits to one side on the east. Khitan and Han officials and the envoy and deputy are led in through both tunnel gates; they unite in rank, perform the greeting, and bow five times in the dancing bow. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties and stand facing the dais. The emperor leaves the imperial seat, stands on the dais, and presents the Empress Dowager's birthday gifts. When this is finished, the emperor bows twice again from the dais; all officials on and below the dais bow. The emperor returns to the imperial seat; officials are led out by formation. Khitan officials enter and thank for the proclaimed banquet. Han officials and the envoy and deputy enter; their names are announced as they thank for the banquet, then they ascend the dais and take their places. Officials who are not to be seated withdraw; attendants enter—all as prescribed. The imperial couch is brought in; the emperor offers the Empress Dowager the first round of wine, and the Empress Dowager bestows wine on the emperor—all as at the Empress Dowager's birthday. They are acclaimed to take their seats, and wine is served. When drinking is proclaimed finished, they take their places and thank as prescribed. When the first round on the dais is finished, attendants enter and take their places as prescribed. A prince presents wine; pastry and tea are served; the Music Office delivers the formal address as prescribed. Tea and dishes are served as prescribed. Seven rounds of wine are presented; when the envoys' musical pieces end, attendants rise. At the suite break, officials and envoys rise. Everything else proceeds as on New Year's Day.
6
殿殿 殿 殿殿 殿 殿 退 殿 使殿 殿 殿 殿 殿 使殿 殿
The Empress's Birthday Ceremony: Officials attend court at daybreak. Before the great tent of the emperor and empress, they bow to the sun; Khitan and Han officials bow with them. The emperor ascends the hall and takes his seat; the empress bows twice; officials below unite in rank and bow with her. The emperor bestows birthday gifts on the empress; the empress thanks him from the dais with two bows; all officials bow. A Khitan chamberlain announces names; Khitan and Han officials enter in turn to offer congratulations. When the cup is brought in, the chamberlain proclaims; they perform the dancing bow with five bows; in the greeting they do not declare "May His Majesty enjoy ten thousand blessings." They are acclaimed to bow twice. The head of the formation ascends the dais, bows and kneels, announces his full title himself to wish long life; when finished, he is led down, returns to his place, and bows with body bent. They are acclaimed to perform the dancing bow; five bows. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties. A chief minister is led onto the dais to present the lists of memorials submitted by officials of all ranks and from all circuits. The Music Office performs the greeting with seven bows but does not offer congratulations. Crane-Control officers perform the greeting with four bows. Circuit escort commanders append reports of paying their respects; a banquet is bestowed; eight bows in all. Khitan and Han officials unite in rank, present longevity wine, and perform the dancing bow with five bows. A great minister is led onto the dais; on his cushion outside the railing he tucks his tablet, takes up a pedestal cup, and presents wine; the emperor and empress receive the cups. He withdraws and returns to his cushioned place. He hands over the pedestal and withdraws his tablet; inside the railing he bows and kneels and announces his full title: "Your servants respectfully present wine for ten thousand years of longevity"; when finished, he is led down, returns to his place, performs the dancing bow with five bows, and bows with body bent. The Commissioner of the Palace Secretariat reports the imperial response as prescribed; he is led onto the dais, tucks his tablet, and holds the pedestal. The emperor and empress drink; officials below are dismissed by formation; the Music Office plays; all bow and exclaim "Ten thousand years!" When they finish drinking, the emperor and empress hand back the cups. He is led down from the dais and performs the dancing bow with five bows. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties and are led out. Officials present tribute as prescribed; the banquet is proclaimed as prescribed. The Music Office, cup-attendants, and officials ascend the dais and attend as prescribed. The empress presents wine to the emperor; bowing is proclaimed on the dais; all attending officials bow. The emperor receives the cup; all bow. The empress takes her seat; a Khitan chamberlain and a Han gate commissioner on the dais proclaim bowing; all bow and exclaim "Ten thousand years!" They are acclaimed to take their positions. A great minister presents wine to the emperor and empress; wine is served as prescribed. Three rounds of wine are presented; dishes and full courses are served. Wine is again presented to the emperor and empress. Two more rounds of wine are presented; the grand feast is brought in; congee is served. The Music Office delivers the formal address; all officials rise. When the shouted motto ends, they are acclaimed to bow and exclaim "Ten thousand years!"; they are led down to thank for the banquet and led out—all as in the usual ceremony.
7
殿 退 退 退
Ceremony for Receiving Jinshi Graduates: On the appointed day, candidates follow the chief minister to the side of the imperial tent; their name lists and the chief minister's list are announced and reported together; the chief minister attends court as usual. When this is finished, the jinshi from the top candidate downward are motioned within the red steps to face the dais, bow with bodies bent, announce their names, and bow four times. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties and all withdraw. If any present written compositions, they do not withdraw but hold their scrolls and stand upright. The gate office reports acceptance; they kneel on the left knee and present them; when finished, they rise and withdraw. The ceremony is finished.
8
使 使 殿 退 使
Ceremony for Bestowing Jinshi Ranks and Edicts: When officials have finished the greeting, the reader of the examination rolls reports completion; on the left, names are called in order by rank and the graduates stand in sequence; the gate office receives the edict documents. The gate commissioner reports and leads them to the red steps, where they stand in order by rank. The gate commissioner announces "There is an edict"; they bow twice and bow with body bent. The chamberlain proclaims the edict: "Each of you is bestowed one edict document according to your rank; may you know this well"; they bow with a motion. Each kneels on the left knee and receives the edict; when finished, they bow with body bent and all bow twice. Each attends to his duty; they are led to left and right and stand facing one another in attendance. When memorial business is finished, they are led onto the dais by both stairways, take their places, cry assent in unison, and are granted seats. Three rounds of wine are presented; they rise and cry assent as before. They withdraw with a bowing motion. The ceremony is finished. A seal-bearing prince presents wine; the gate commissioner urges them to drink.
9
殿西殿 使 退 殿 使
Ceremony for Bestowing Jinshi Court Robes: The emperor presides in the hall; officials in formal dress lead the graduates in; on the east they face west, bow twice, are motioned to the red-step position, and bow toward the dais with bodies bent. The gate commissioner announces "There is an edict"; they bow twice and bow with body bent. The chamberlain proclaims the edict: "Each of you is bestowed one edict document according to your rank, together with court robes; may you know this well"; they bow with a motion and bow twice. They kneel and receive the edict; when finished, they bow twice. They withdraw, are led to the robe office, and change clothes; when finished, they are motioned back to the red-step position and bow with body bent. They are acclaimed to thank for the imperial grace and perform the dancing bow with five bows. Each attends to his duty; they stand in order inside the eastern pavilion of the hall. They cry assent and take their seats. A banquet is bestowed and flowers are pinned in their caps. One gate commissioner and three or two gate officers are dispatched to urge drinking throughout the day. The ceremony is finished.
10
殿 殿殿西使 西 殿 殿 殿 殿 殿殿 使殿使
Ceremony for a Chief Minister's Mid-Audience Thanks: The emperor in ordinary dress ascends the hall and takes his seat; all ranks perform the greeting as usual. Officials who are to be seated ascend the dais; the rest stand in attendance below to east and west—all as at a Song envoy's first audience. The official offering thanks is led in from the left to the red steps and stands facing west. The chamberlain before the dais bows with body bent and announces the name of the newly appointed official attending to offer mid-audience thanks. On the dais the Commissioner of the Palace Secretariat summons the usher of the full formation to the acclamation position and announces that such-and-such official has arrived. The commissioner acclaims; two ushers of the full formation stand facing one another and motion the thanks-giving official to bow with body bent. He is acclaimed to take the bowing position; two chamberlains lead him to face the dais and bow with body bent. He is acclaimed to bow; the thanks-giving official performs the dancing bow with five bows, does not leave formation, and declares "May His Majesty enjoy ten thousand blessings." He is acclaimed to bow twice. He is motioned out of formation to kneel, states his office, and delivers his address; when finished, he prostrates and rises and returns to his place. He is acclaimed to bow and performs the dancing bow with five bows. He again leaves formation; mid-audience thanks and address as at first—in all seventeen bows. He is acclaimed to attend to his duty and is led onto the dais by the right steps to take his place. Officials who are to be seated are motioned; they cry assent and take their seats. Palace service officers present wine; drinking is proclaimed finished. Officials tuck their tablets, take up their cups and rise, stand behind their places and drink; set down their cups and withdraw their tablets. They are acclaimed to bow; all officials bow twice. They are acclaimed to take their seats, tuck their tablets, take up their cups, and hand them to the palace service officers. Three rounds of wine are presented; officials who are to be seated are motioned; they cry assent and rise. The thanks-giving official is led down from the dais by the right steps to the red steps and bows toward the dais with body bent. He is acclaimed to bow, performs the dancing bow with five bows, and is led out to the right. All officials withdraw. The chief minister and the commissioner of military affairs follow the same procedure; remaining officials do not ascend the dais; wine is bestowed; those who are not military commissioners do not pass through the full formation but only have their names announced—seven bows. The assembled officials thank; one person from the head of the formation leaves formation to offer mid-audience thanks.
11
使
Ceremony for Presenting a Memorial Table: On the appointed day, felt seats are first set out at the eastern upper gate office; officials from north and south and envoys from all states are led separately to unite in rank at the felt seats. Two interpreting chamberlains carry the memorial table, set it before the head of the formation, motion a bow with body bent, bow twice, and stand upright. A Secretariat drafter stands at the side of the table; the head of the formation kneels, tucks his tablet, rises, holds the memorial, kneels on the left knee, and hands it to the Secretariat drafter. He withdraws his tablet, bows in place, rises, and bows twice. The Secretariat drafter sets the memorial back on the table. The interpreting chamberlains carry the memorial table in through the eastern upper gate office; the formation is dismissed; they are led out separately. The ceremony is finished.
12
仿
On New Year's Day, when the emperor does not take the imperial seat, this ceremony is performed; whenever memorial presentation is prevented for any reason, the same procedure is followed.
13
殿殿 使殿 使西殿 使 殿殿
Ceremony for Congratulating on the Birth of a Prince: On the appointed day, the late emperor's imperial portrait is displayed; the main hall is set out; the emperor presides in the octagonal hall and takes his seat. When the guard cry is finished, northern and southern Commissioners of the Palace Secretariat stand to left and right on the hall steps; northern and southern officials in gold caps and full dress unite in rank and enter. Two heads of the formation stand holding the memorial; the reader of the memorial stands beforehand on the upper side of the left steps. The two commissioners descend from the dais by the eastern and western steps to receive the memorial; the bearer kneels on the left knee and presents it; when finished, he bows in place, rises, and bows twice. Each attends to his duty. Both commissioners ascend the left steps and hand the memorial to the reader; when the reading is finished, officials are motioned to bow with bodies bent. The northern head of the formation is led onto the dais by the left steps; inside the railing he offers congratulations; when finished, he is led down the left steps, returns to his place, and performs the dancing bow with five bows. The ceremony is finished.
14
使殿殿 殿 殿殿
Ceremony for Congratulating on Auspicious Omens: The guard cry sounds; northern and southern officials in gold caps and full dress unite in rank and stand. Two heads of the formation each hold memorials of congratulation; northern and southern commissioners descend the left steps to receive them, ascend the dais, and hand them to the great minister who reads the memorial. When the reading is finished, officials below the dais are motioned to bow with bodies bent; when five bows are finished, they bow with bodies bent again. Two heads of the formation are led onto the dais by the left steps; inside the railing they bow and kneel to offer congratulations and deliver an address; when finished, they are led down the left steps and return to their places; when five bows are finished, they bow with bodies bent. When the proclaimed response and the hearing of the edict are finished, they bow twice and bow with body bent. They thank for the imperial instruction; when five bows are finished, each attends to his duty; they are dismissed by formation and stand in attendance. The ceremony is finished; the two administrations report business as usual.
15
In the sixth year of Qiantong, when an auspicious cloud appeared at Muye Mountain, this ceremony was first performed. In the first year of Tianqing, when grain rained from heaven, after thanks for the imperial instruction the Prince of Zhao presented wine; the Music Office struck up; officials were served one round of wine. The ceremony is finished; memorial business is reported.
16
殿 使 殿 殿 殿 退 殿 殿 殿
Ceremony for Congratulating on the Suppression of Internal Disorder: The emperor and empress ascend the hall and take their seats; northern and southern officials and titled ladies unite in rank and bow five times. Two heads of the formation are motioned out of rank; they prostrate and kneel, tuck their tablets, hold the memorial, and carry the table forward. The gate commissioner receives the memorial and sets it on the table; all bow twice. Two interpreting chamberlains carry the table, ascend the dais by the left steps, and set it on the upper terrace. The reader of the memorial receives it and enters to read it. When the reading before the throne is finished, officials below the dais bow five times and bow with bodies bent. Two heads of the formation are led onto the dais by the left and right steps and stand together inside the railing. First the northern head of the formation is led slightly forward, kneels and delivers an address; when finished, he withdraws to his cushioned place. Next the southern head of the formation is led forward in the same way. When finished, they are led down the left and right steps separately, return to their places, bow five times, and bow with bodies bent. The commissioner announces "There is an edict"; they bow twice; the response is proclaimed: "The internal disorder has been pacified; let us celebrate together with you, within and without." They thank for the imperial instruction with five bows. The formation is dismissed. Officials follow the emperor; titled ladies follow the empress; they proceed to the Empress Dowager's hall, view the late emperor's portrait, take accompanying positions, and all bow twice. The Empress Dowager sits formally; congratulations are offered—ten bows in all; they are all led onto the dais and granted a banquet as prescribed.
17
The ceremony for pacifying disorder was instituted in the ninth year of Qingning under Emperor Daozong, when the emperor's uncle Chongyuan plotted rebellion and Empress Dowager Renyi personally led the guards against the rebels. When the affair was settled, this ceremony was instituted.
18
使 殿殿使西 殿退殿 使殿 西殿 使西 殿退 退殿 使殿 殿 殿 殿 殿使 殿 使 殿 使西 退殿使殿西殿 西 殿
New Year's Day Court Congratulations Ceremony: Officials and envoys from all states attend court at daybreak and report that the ranks are formed. The emperor ascends the hall and takes his seat; when the Khitan chamberlain on the dais has finished announcing names, Khitan officials are led in through the east tunnel gate and Han officials and envoys from all states through the west tunnel gate. They unite in rank, perform the dancing bow with five bows, bow with bodies bent, and stand upright. A prince is led onto the dais by the eastern steps; inside the railing at his cushioned place he prostrates and kneels and announces his full title: "Your servants such-and-such wish long life"; when finished, he rises, withdraws, is led down the eastern steps, returns to his place, and when five bows of the dancing bow are finished bows with body bent. On the dais the Commissioner of the Palace Secretariat bows with body bent and reports "Your servant proclaims the response"; announces "There is an edict"; from the head of the formation downward, when the edict has been heard, they bow twice and bow with body bent. The commissioner transmits the proclamation: "The joy of the new year—let us share it with you." The chamberlain proclaims thanks for the instruction; they bow and perform the dancing bow with five bows. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties, dismissed by formation, and led out; the head of the formation is led onto the dais by the western steps to present the memorial lists; when finished, the Music Office performs the greeting, offers congratulations, and bows twelve times; when finished, they are acclaimed to attend to their duties. Khitan and Han officials and envoys from all states are led in through the eastern and western tunnel gates, unite in rank, and bow twice. They are acclaimed to present wine; a prince is led onto the dais by the eastern steps to his cushioned place inside the railing; he tucks his tablet, takes up a pedestal cup, and presents wine; when finished, he withdraws to his cushioned place, sets down the pedestal, withdraws his tablet, moves slightly forward and kneels prostrate, and announces his full title: "Your servants such-and-such respectfully present wine for ten thousand years of longevity." He rises from prostration, withdraws to his cushioned place; he and officials below all bow twice and bow with body bent. They wait until on the dais the Commissioner of the Palace Secretariat bows with body bent, reports "Your servant proclaims the response," and announces "There is an edict"; the prince and those below bow twice as at first. The transmitted proclamation says: "Drink your longevity wine; let us celebrate together with you, within and without." The chamberlain proclaims thanks for the instruction as before. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties. The prince tucks his tablet and holds the pedestal; officials below are dismissed by formation. The emperor drinks; the Music Office plays; all officials on and below the dais bow and exclaim "Ten thousand years!" They are acclaimed to attend to their duties. The music stops; the Music Office bows twice. When the emperor finishes drinking, the prince advances to receive the cup-stand, returns to his cushioned place, sets down the pedestal and stand, and withdraws his tablet. Officials are motioned to unite in rank; the prince is led down from the dais by the eastern steps, returns to his place, bows with body bent, and bows twice. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties, dismissed by formation, and led out. The emperor rises and proceeds to the Empress Dowager's hall; officials and envoys from all states follow. The Empress Dowager ascends the hall; the emperor sits to one side on the east. Khitan and Han officials and envoys from all states are led in through both tunnel gates; they unite in rank to offer congratulations and present wine—all as in the emperor's ceremony. When finished, they are led out. The Music Office enters, performs the greeting, and presents wine likewise. The Empress Dowager's proclaimed response is termed "Imperial edict." The Khitan formation thanks for the proclaimed banquet and ascends the dais to take their places. Han officials and envoys from all states enter through the east tunnel gate, stand on the eastern red steps facing west and bow with bodies bent; the chamberlain bows with body bent and announces that civil and military officials and chief ministers from such-and-such rank downward thank for the banquet; they bow twice; they leave formation and deliver an address; when finished, they withdraw and return to their places; they perform the dancing bow with five bows; they are acclaimed to ascend the dais and attend; chief ministers and below, envoys and deputies from all states, and officials of the square-mat banquet in the Duo Hall are led onto the dais by the western steps to take their places. Officials who are not to be seated all withdraw through the west tunnel gate. Two cup-attendants supervise; the Music Office bows twice. They are acclaimed to ascend the steps, descend from the dais, and thank for the banquet—as at the Empress Dowager's birthday.
19
殿 殿 退 退 殿 殿 殿 殿 殿 殿 殿 殿 殿殿
Winter Solstice Court Congratulations Ceremony: Officials form their ranks as on New Year's Day. The emperor and empress bow to the sun; officials in accompanying positions bow twice. The emperor and empress ascend the hall and take their seats; the Khitan chamberlain announces; officials enter and unite in rank; the prince wishes long life; the response is proclaimed—all as on New Year's Day. When thanks are finished, they perform the dancing bow with five bows and bow with body bent. They leave formation and declare "May His Majesty enjoy ten thousand blessings"; return to their places, bow twice, and bow with body bent. The head of the formation leaves rank, prostrates and kneels and wishes long life; when finished, he rises; he performs the dancing bow with five bows and bows with body bent. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties. They are dismissed by formation but do not withdraw; they unite in rank; the imperial couch is brought in; they bow twice and bow with body bent. They are acclaimed to present wine. Officials stand upright. A prince is led onto the dais by the left steps to his cushioned place inside the railing; he tucks his tablet, takes up a pedestal cup, and presents wine. When the emperor and empress have received the cups, he withdraws to his cushioned place, sets down the pedestal, withdraws his tablet, and kneels prostrate. He moves slightly forward and announces his full title: "Your servants such-and-such respectfully present wine for ten thousand years of longevity." He rises from prostration, withdraws to his cushioned place, bows twice, and bows with body bent. All officials below bow twice and bow with body bent. The proclaimed response follows the New Year's Day ceremony. The prince tucks his tablet and holds the pedestal; they are dismissed by formation. The emperor and empress drink; music is played; all officials on and below the dais bow and exclaim "Ten thousand years of longevity!"; the music stops. The Music Office bows twice; officials unite in rank. The prince advances to receive the cups, goes to his cushioned place, sets down the pedestal cups, withdraws his tablet, and is led down from the dais by the left steps. The imperial couch is removed. The prince returns to the red-step position, bows twice, and bows with body bent. He is acclaimed to attend to his duty. They are dismissed by formation and led out. The head of the formation ascends the dais by the right steps to present the memorial lists and tribute. When tribute from all circuits and the Music Office's presentation are finished, tribute receipt is proclaimed. The head of the formation performs the dancing bow with five bows and bows with body bent. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties. The head of the formation withdraws; officials re-enter; they unite in rank to thank; they perform the dancing bow with five bows and bow with body bent. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties. They are dismissed by formation and led out. The guard cry sounds; the emperor and empress rise and proceed to the northern hall. At the Imperial Portrait Hall, the Empress Dowager together with the emperor and empress leads the officials in bowing twice. The Empress Dowager offers incense; all bow twice. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties. Those of short-stool rank and above ascend the dais. The Empress Dowager presents wine to the imperial portrait three times; those in accompanying positions all bow. The Empress Dowager ascends the hall and takes her seat. The emperor takes his cushioned place on the upper terrace; a prince escorts the northern and southern officials' formations to stand within the red steps. The emperor bows twice; all officials bow and bow with bodies bent; the emperor kneels inside the railing and wishes the Empress Dowager long life; when finished, he returns to his place and bows twice. At every bow they exclaim "Ten thousand years!" They are acclaimed to attend to their duties. Officials do not withdraw; the emperor and empress sit to one side; a prince presents wine; officials bow with them; the Empress Dowager's response is proclaimed—all as on New Year's Day. Officials are dismissed by formation but do not withdraw; the head of the formation ascends the dais by the right steps to present the memorial lists; they unite in rank to thank for the banquet and ascend to take their places as prescribed. The imperial couch is brought in. The emperor presents wine to the Empress Dowager as before; each takes a seat and wine is served; when drinking is proclaimed finished, the proceedings follow the Empress Dowager's birthday ceremony. The empress presents wine, as in the emperor's ceremony. Three rounds of wine are presented; tea is served; the Music Office delivers the formal address; dishes and full courses are served; the grand feast is brought in; seven rounds of wine follow. At the suite break, officials rise; the imperial couch is removed; thanks for the banquet—all as at the Empress Dowager's birthday.
20
殿 殿 殿 使 使殿
Beginning of Spring Ceremony: The emperor goes to the inner hall and bows to the late emperor's portrait; northern and southern officials unite in rank within the red steps and bow twice. Those of short-stool rank and above enter the hall and are granted seats. The emperor presents wine to the imperial portrait; those in accompanying positions and those standing in attendance all bow twice. At the first round of wine, officials descend from the dais and stand facing one another to left and right. The emperor wears a spring pennant; spring pennants are bestowed by rank. When officials have finished pinning their pennants, the emperor offers incense before the clay ox and presents wine three times without bowing. The Music Office strikes up; the attendant protocol officer kneels and presents the colored staff. The emperor flogs the clay ox; northern and southern officials of short-stool rank and above unite in rank within the red steps, kneel on the left knee, receive the colored staff, rise, and bow twice. They are acclaimed to attend to their duties. The timekeeper announces that spring has arrived; the clay ox is flogged three circuits and flogging stops at the short-stool rank; military commissioners and above are led onto the dais; grain and beans are scattered; the clay ox is struck. Grain and beans are scattered; the crowd is permitted to seize them. Officials sit according to their places; two rounds of wine are presented; the spring platter is brought in. When three rounds of wine are finished, tea is served. All rise. The ceremony is finished.
21
退
Double Fifth Ceremony: On the appointed day, officials attend at daybreak at the imperial tent; the emperor ties on a longevity colored thread and mounts the carriage; northern and southern officials are led to unite in rank as at the red steps. The responsible offices each bestow longevity threads; officials are motioned to kneel and receive them and bow twice. They are led to withdraw and follow the imperial procession to the dining quarters; three rounds of wine are presented. If a banquet is bestowed, they await the edict at the time.
22
Double Ninth Ceremony: Northern and southern officials attend the imperial tent in the morning, follow the imperial procession to the hunting park, and are granted tea. The emperor takes his seat; officials are led to stand in formation before the throne; the responsible offices each bestow chrysanthemum wine; they kneel to receive it and bow twice. Three rounds of wine are presented; they are motioned to rise.
23
殿
Hidden-Lot Ceremony: On the appointed day, northern and southern officials in ordinary dress attend court; the emperor presides in the Hall of Heavenly Felicity; officials are granted seats according to their places. Khitan on the south and Han on the north divide into groups and draw lots, either five or seven tallies. A meal is bestowed; when they finish eating, all rise. After a short interval, they sit again and draw lots as before. In the evening tea is bestowed; three or five tallies; the Music Office's service is dismissed. If the emperor draws the lot, after officials present wine, wine is bestowed in turn.
24
On the twenty-second day of the twelfth month of the tenth year of Dakang, this ceremony was first performed. On that day court is not held. Miscellaneous seasonal ceremonies:
25
On New Year's Day, by Khitan custom glutinous rice is mixed with white sheep marrow to make fist-sized cakes; each tent is granted forty-nine pieces. On the fifth watch of the night, each throws the balls out through the tent windows. If the count is even, music strikes up and there is feasting. If the count is odd, twelve shamans ring bells and hold arrows, circling the tent singing and calling; inside the tent salt is exploded in a brazier and the ground is burned while rats are struck—this is called frightening away ghosts; they remain inside seven days before emerging. In the Khitan language New Year's Day is called "Nainieyi'er." "Nai" means "correct"; "nieyi'er" means "daybreak."
26
At the beginning of spring, women present spring documents; blue silk is carved into pennants shaped like dragons to drive them away; or they are made into toads, and the pennants are inscribed "May spring arrive."
27
Human Day: For the days of the first month—the first day is the chicken, the second the dog, the third the pig, the fourth the sheep, the fifth the horse, the sixth the ox, and the seventh day is for humans. In divination, clear weather is auspicious and overcast weather portends misfortune. By custom pancakes are fried and eaten in the courtyard; this is called "Smoking the Sky."
28
𢘉𢘉 𢘉
The first day of the second month is the Mid-Harmony festival; the imperial maternal clan of the Xiao host a banquet for the imperial clan of the Yelü—an annual custom. In the Khitan language this day is called "Xiali Po"; "xiali" means "to invite"; "po" means "time." "Xia" is pronounced like "xia" (familiar); "po" is pronounced like "po" (rather).
29
西
The eighth day of the second month is the birthday of Prince Siddhartha; the capital and all circuits carve wooden images; ceremonial guards and a hundred entertainments lead the procession as they circle the city in celebration. Prince Siddhartha was a prince of pure Brahman lineage in the Western Regions, of the Gautama clan, named Shakyamuni. Because of his awakened nature, he is called "Buddha."
30
The third day of the third month is the Shangsi festival; by Khitan custom wood is carved into rabbits; groups divide and ride horses shooting at them. Whoever hits first wins; the losing group dismounts, lines up kneeling, and presents wine; the winning group drinks on horseback. In the Khitan language this day is called "Taoli Hua." "Taoli" means "rabbit"; "hua" means "to shoot."
31
綿
On the double fifth of the fifth month, at noon, mugwort leaves are gathered and mixed with cotton for garments—seven items to present to the Son of Heaven; northern and southern officials are each granted three; ruler and ministers feast; a Bohai cook presents mugwort for the forelock. With five-colored silk cords wound around the arms, this is called the "Union-of-Joy Knot." Colored silk is also twisted into human shapes and pinned in the hair; this is called the "Long-Life Thread." In the Khitan language this day is called "Tao Saiyi'er." "Tao" means "five"; "saiyi'er" means "month."
32
On the summer solstice, by custom it is called the "Court Festival." Women present colored fans and exchange powder and cosmetic pouches as gifts.
33
𢘉
On the eighteenth day of the sixth month, by Khitan custom the Yelü clan host a banquet for the imperial maternal clan of the Xiao; it is also called "Xiali Po."
34
西宿 西
On the night of the thirteenth day of the seventh month, the Son of Heaven pitches a tent and lodges thirty li west of the palace. Beforehand, wine and food are prepared. The next day, all armies and tribal followers strike up Khitan music and feast until evening; then they return to the traveling palace—this is called "Welcoming the Festival." On the fifteenth is the Zhongyuan festival; Han music strikes up and there is a great banquet. At daybreak on the sixteenth they again proceed westward; the armies and tribes following raise a great clamor three times—this is called "Sending Off the Festival." In the Khitan language it is called "Saiyi'er She." "She" means "good."
35
On the eighth day of the eighth month, by Khitan custom a white dog is slaughtered and buried seven paces before the sleeping tent, its snout exposed. Seven days later at Mid-Autumn, the sleeping tent is moved above it. In the Khitan language it is called "Niehe Nai." "Niehe" means "dog"; "nai" means "head."
36
鹿
On the double ninth of the ninth month, the Son of Heaven leads ministers, officials, and tribes to shoot tigers; whoever takes fewer loses and must pay for a Double Ninth banquet. When shooting is finished, a high place is chosen to pitch a tent; Khitan and Han officials are granted chrysanthemum wine. Rabbit liver serves as relish and deer tongue as sauce; cornelian cherry wine is also prepared and sprinkled on doors and gates for exorcism. In the Khitan language this day is called "Bili Chili"—the ninth day of the ninth month.
37
In the tenth month of the year, the five capitals present paper-made small garments, armor, spears, blades, and ten thousand sets of equipment. On the fifteenth, the Son of Heaven and his ministers perform a distant sacrifice toward Muye Mountain; documents are written in the Khitan script and burned. In the Khitan language it is called "Dai La." "Dai" means "to burn"; "la" means "armor."
38
On the winter solstice, by Khitan custom white sheep, white horses, and white geese are slaughtered; blood from each is mixed with wine; the Son of Heaven performs a distant bow toward Black Mountain. Black Mountain lies in the northern borderlands; by custom it is said to be where the people's souls reside and its spirit presides over them—like Mount Tai of China. Every year on this day, the five capitals present more than ten thousand paper-made human figures and horses; they sacrifice to the mountain and burn them. By custom there is great dread; without sacrifice one dare not approach the mountain.
39
La Festival Day: The Son of Heaven leads northern and southern officials all in military dress; on the fifth watch of the night they hold seated court, strike up music and drink wine, and bestow armor, weapons, sheep, and horses by rank. In the Khitan language this day is called "Chao Wuer Po." "Chao Wuer" means "battle."
40
輿 輿 殿 退
Rebirth Ceremony: At twelve years of age, in the last month of winter in the year before the emperor's birth year, an auspicious day is chosen. Beforehand, ground is cleared north of the forbidden gate to set up the Rebirth Chamber, the Mother's Chamber, and the late emperor's spirit tablet carriage. Southeast of the Rebirth Chamber, a three-forked tree is planted upside down. On the day, boys and midwives are placed in the chamber; one woman holds wine, one old man holds a quiver of arrows, and they stand outside the chamber. The responsible offices request that the spirit tablet descend from its carriage and offerings be presented. When the offerings are finished, the emperor leaves the sleeping hall and proceeds to the Rebirth Chamber. The assembled ministers escort him in welcome and bow twice. The emperor enters the chamber. He removes his ceremonial dress and washes. Accompanied by boys, he passes three times beneath the forked tree. At each passing, the midwives speak formal words and brush the emperor's body. The boys pass the forked tree seven times; the emperor lies beside the tree; the old man strikes the quiver and announces: "A boy has been born." The grand shaman covers the emperor's head; he rises; the assembled ministers offer congratulations and bow twice. The midwives receive wine from the woman holding wine and present it; the grand shaman holds swaddling clothes, colored knots, and other objects and proclaims blessings over them. Seven old men are chosen beforehand; each attaches an imperial name to colored silk and all kneel to present them. The emperor selects an auspicious name and receives it; gifts are bestowed. He bows twice and withdraws. All ministers present swaddling clothes, colored knots, and other objects. The emperor bows to the late emperor's various portraits, then feasts the assembled ministers.
41
使
Excellent! This is the legacy Zuwu Khan bequeathed to his descendants. Every child yearns for his parents, yet when desires grow deep love grows shallow, and when wife and children are complete filial piety declines. This is true of everyone—how much more so the Son of Heaven! The Rebirth Ceremony, performed once each year as the stars complete their circuit, requires the Son of Heaven to perform this rite in order to awaken his filial heart. When the enactment is genuine, the remembrance is keen; a child's yearning will well up spontaneously from the heart—the power of stirring feeling is beyond what words and writing can convey. Excellent! This is the legacy Zuwu Khan bequeathed to his descendants. It begins with passing three times beneath the forked tree—who could fail to recall a mother's toil! It ends with bowing to the late emperor's portraits—how fitting to reverently uphold the ancestral temple! The Odes says: "Do not merely think of your ancestors; cultivate their virtue."
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