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志七十一
Treatise 71
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樂三
Music 3
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樂章一郊廟群祀
Hymns I: Music for the Suburban Altars and Collective Sacrifices
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圜丘九章郊廟樂，順治元年定，乾隆十一年用舊辭重改。 今以順治所制分載句中。 中和韶樂，黃鍾宮立宮，倍夷則下羽主調。
The nine hymn-cycles of music for the Circular Mound and the suburban temples were fixed in Shunzhi 1 (1644); in Qianlong 11 (1746) they were reworked again from the earlier texts. The Shunzhi-era wording is now given separately within each line. The Zhonghe ceremonial music uses the Huangzhong palace mode as the establishing key, with beiyize and the lower Yu pitch as the principal tonality.
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迎神始平欽原敬。 承純祜原祐。 兮，於昭有融。 時維永清兮，四海攸同。 輸忱元祀兮，從律調風。 穆將景福兮，乃眷微躬。 淵思高厚兮，期亮天工。 原恐負鴻則。 聿章彝序兮，夙夜宣通。 雲軿延佇原鸞輅。 兮，鸞輅空濛。 原忽降中壇。 翠旗紛裊兮，列缺豐隆。 肅始和暢兮，恭仰蒼穹。 原慶洽陶匏。 百靈祗衛兮，齊明辟公。 神來燕娭兮，惟帝時聰。 原恭仰顥穹兮，神來燕喜。 協昭慈惠兮，逖鑒臣原予。 衷。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Shiping): “Qin” in the present text; [Shunzhi:] “Jing.” We receive pure blessing—[Shunzhi:] we receive blessing. How bright and all-embracing is Your grace! The times are ever serene; throughout the four seas all are as one. With heartfelt devotion at this primal rite, we follow the pitch-laws and harmonize the winds. In solemn awe great blessings shall come down, and You turn Your regard to my humble self. Deep in thought on Heaven’s loftiness and Earth’s depth, I hope to fulfill Heaven’s design. [Shunzhi:] I fear I may fail the great standard. So the eternal order is displayed; day and night it is proclaimed and brought to completion. The cloud-chariot pauses in waiting—[Shunzhi:] the phoenix carriage. The phoenix carriage hovers, veiled in mist. [Shunzhi:] You suddenly descend to the central altar. Green banners flutter in profusion; lightning flashes and thunder rolls. In solemn harmony at the outset, we reverently gaze up to the azure Heaven. [Shunzhi:] Blessing suffuses the earthen vessels and gourds. The hundred spirits reverently attend; all are pure as the assisting lords. The spirit comes to feast in joy; only the Emperor is ever perceptive. [Shunzhi:] Reverently we look up to the bright Heaven; the spirit comes to feast in gladness. In harmony You show kindness and grace; from afar You discern Your servant—[Shunzhi:] Yu. —with all my heart.
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奠玉帛景平靈旗爰止兮，樂在懸。 原奉玉筵。 執事有恪兮，奉玉筵。 原駿奔前。 聿昭誠敬兮，駿奔前。 原有美圭璧兮，薦縞纖。 嘉玉量幣兮，相後先。 原經緯獲理兮，耀瑚璉。 來格洋洋兮，思儼然。 臣原孔。 忱翼翼兮，告中虔。
Offering Jade and Silk (tune Jingping): The spirit-banner comes to rest; the music hangs from the stands. [Shunzhi:] We present the jade mat. The officiants are reverent as they present the jade mat. [Shunzhi:] They hasten swiftly forward. So sincerity and reverence are made manifest as they hasten forward. [Shunzhi:] Fine gui and bi jades are offered, with white silk presented. Fine jade and measured silks are offered in proper sequence. [Shunzhi:] Warp and woof are rightly ordered; the hu and lian vessels shine. You arrive in boundless presence; I imagine You standing in solemn dignity. Your servant—[Shunzhi:] Kong. With earnest devotion and cautious steps, I declare my heartfelt sincerity.
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進俎咸平吉蠲為饎兮，肅豆籩。 原升餚珍錯兮，列豆籩。 升餚列俎兮，敢弗虔。 原吉蠲為饎兮，格乾圜。 毛炰繭栗原九州美味。 兮，薦膏鮮。 致潔陶匏兮，香水泉。 原特牲潔敬兮，苾芳筵。 原隨原垂。 降鑒兮，駐雲軿。 錫嘉福兮，億萬斯年。
Presenting the Sacrificial Meat (tune Xianping): Auspiciously purified as sacred food; the dou and bian trays are set in solemn order. [Shunzhi:] Delicacies and rare dishes are brought up; the dou and bian trays are arranged. Delicacies are raised and placed on the stands—how could we fail to be reverent? [Shunzhi:] Auspiciously purified as sacred food, reaching the round Heaven above. Roasted meat and cocoon-like offerings—[Shunzhi:] the finest flavors of the Nine Provinces. Rich fat and fresh offerings are presented. With pure pottery and gourds we offer; fragrant water from the spring. [Shunzhi:] The special sacrificial animal, pure and reverent; the banquet is richly fragrant. [Shunzhi:] Following; [Shunzhi:] descending. Descend and look upon us; the cloud-chariot comes to rest. Grant blessed fortune for ten thousand ages.
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初獻壽平玉斝肅陳兮，明光。 桂漿初醖兮，信芳。 臣心迪惠兮，捧觴。 醴齊載德兮，馨香。 靈慈徽眷兮，矞皇。 勤仰止兮，斯徜徉。
First Offering (tune Shouping): The jade goblet is solemnly presented; bright radiance shines. Osmanthus wine freshly brewed—how truly fragrant it is. With a heart advancing in grace, your servant raises the cup. The clear sacrificial wine carries virtue; its fragrance rises. With the spirit’s kindness and gracious regard, all is splendid and august. Diligently I gaze upward in awe; thus I move in reverent contemplation.
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亞獻嘉平考鍾拂舞兮，再進瑤觴。 翼翼昭事兮，次第肅將。 睟顏容與兮，蒼幾輝煌。 穆穆居歆兮，和氣洋洋。 生民望澤兮，仰睨玉房。 榮泉瑞露兮，慶無疆。
Second Offering (tune Jiaping): The bells are sounded and the dance performed; once more the jade cup is presented. With cautious care the bright rites are performed, each step solemnly carried out in order. With serene face and gentle bearing, the azure canopy shines in splendor. In solemn dignity the spirit dwells in joy; harmonious breath abounds. The people look to Your blessing, gazing up toward the jade chamber. Glorious springs and auspicious dew—blessings without end.
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終獻永平原雍平。 終獻兮，玉斝清。 肅秬鬯兮，薦和羹。 原微誠。 磬管鏘鏘兮，祀孔明。 原協氣升。 旨酒盈盈原盈盈旨酒。 兮，勿替思成。 明命顧諟原尚其醉止。 兮，群福生。 原懷嘉生。 八龍蜿蜒兮，苞羽和鳴。
Final Offering (tune Yongping); [Shunzhi:] Yongping. At the final offering, the jade goblet stands pure. Solemnly the fragrant black-millet wine and harmonized broth are offered. [Shunzhi:] My slight sincerity. Stone chimes and pipes ring clearly; the rite shines forth in splendor. [Shunzhi:] Harmonious breath rises upward. Fine wine overflows the cup—[Shunzhi:] overflowing fine wine. May it never cease—hold fast to its fulfillment. The bright mandate gazes down in awe—[Shunzhi:] may the drinking reach its proper end. All blessings are brought to birth. [Shunzhi:] Cherishing the good growth of life. Eight dragons coil and wind; feathered pipes sound in harmony.
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徹饌熙平一陽復兮，協氣升。 原盥薦畢兮，精白申。 盥薦畢兮，精白陳。 原虞燕娭分，勞帝神。 旋廢徹兮，敢逡巡。 原百辟肅雍兮，傾罍尊。 禮將成兮，樂欣欣。 瞻九閶兮，轉洪鈞。 原無二句。 福施下逮兮，佑此原宜佑。 人民。
Removing the Offerings (tune Xiping): The single yang returns; harmonious breath rises. [Shunzhi:] Washing and presentation complete; pure whiteness is declared. Washing and presentation are complete; pure whiteness is displayed. [Shunzhi:] Awaiting the spirit’s joyful feast, we labor on behalf of the Imperial spirit. Turning to remove the cleared offerings—how dare we delay? [Shunzhi:] The hundred lords in solemn harmony pour out the jars and goblets. As the rite nears completion, the music rings with joy. We gaze toward the nine gates as the great cosmic bell turns. [Shunzhi:] (No corresponding line.) Blessing spreads downward to reach all; protect this people—[Shunzhi:] as is fitting to protect. —the people.
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送神清平原太平。 升中告成原嘉德夙成。 兮，晻靄壇場。 穆思回盼兮，靈駕洋洋。 原有山河日月兮，朗耀崇深。 青龍按節兮，白虎低昂。 洪鈞滌盪兮，妖孽潛消。 三句。 臣原我。 求時惠兮，感思馨香。 原有鳴玉鏘金兮，肅若有望。 紫壇截嶪兮，赫赫皇皇。 臣乘寶曆兮，載須我輔。 三句。 原蒙博產兮，多士思皇。 原作山嶽鍾良。 天施地育兮，百穀蕃昌。 原不可殫究。 殖我嘉師兮，正直平康。 原沐浴休光。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Qingping); [Shunzhi:] Taiping. Ascending the central peak to proclaim completion—[Shunzhi:] fine virtue accomplished long ago. Dim mist veils the altar ground. In solemn thought I turn to look back; the spirit carriage departs in stately ease. [Shunzhi:] Mountains, rivers, sun and moon shine bright, lofty and profound. The Azure Dragon keeps time; the White Tiger bows and lifts. The great cosmic frame is purified; evil omens quietly fade away. (Three lines.) Your servant—[Shunzhi:] I. We seek timely grace, moved by the fragrance of the offerings. [Shunzhi:] Jade chimes and ringing gold; solemn as if awaiting Your presence. The purple altar rises steep and high, splendid and august. Your servant bears the precious calendar; once more I must lend support. (Three lines.) [Shunzhi:] Receiving abundant yield; many scholars look to the sovereign. [Shunzhi original:] Mountains and peaks bring forth the worthy. Heaven grants and Earth nurtures; the hundred grains flourish abundantly. [Shunzhi:] beyond all fullness to explore. May our good people flourish, upright, fair, and at peace. [Shunzhi:] bathed in tranquil glory.
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望燎太平原安平。 隆儀告備兮，誠既將。 原雷車電邁兮，飛遠揚。 有虔秉火兮，焫越芳。 雷車電邁兮，九龍驤。 原繁會賁鏞兮，奮龍旂。 紫氛四塞兮，雲旗揚。 原俾爾昌兮，降蕭光。 蒸民蒙福兮，順五常。 原富壽康。 惟予小子兮，敬戒永臧。 原予獲疇祉兮，萬億斯皇。
Burning Offerings at the Watch Fire (tune Taiping); [Shunzhi:] Anping. The solemn rites proclaim their completion; our sincerity is ready to be offered. [Shunzhi:] Like thunder-chariots and lightning speed, soaring far on high. With reverent hands we bear the flame; fragrant smoke rises in the burning rite. Like thunder-chariots racing with lightning; nine dragons rear and prance. [Shunzhi:] A grand assembly, bells resplendent; the dragon banners are raised aloft. Purple mists fill the four quarters; cloud-banners billow on high. [Shunzhi:] May you prosper; descend with fragrant radiance. The common people receive blessing and walk in accordance with the Five Constant virtues. [Shunzhi:] wealth, longevity, and wellbeing. I, your young servant, shall keep reverent watch and ever hold to what is right. [Shunzhi:] may I receive such grace; myriad blessings, vast and august.
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方澤八章中和韶樂，林鍾清變徵立宮，夾鍾清商主調。
The eight hymn-cycles for the Square Mound use Zhonghe ceremonial music, with the Linzhong qing bianzhi pitch establishing the mode and Jiazhong qing shang as the principal tonality.
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迎神中平吉蠲兮，玉宇開。 薰風兮，自南來。 鳳馭紛兮，後先； 岳瀆藹兮，徘徊。 肅展禮兮，報功； 沛靈澤兮，九垓。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Zhongping): Pure and auspicious, the jade vault of Heaven opens. The fragrant breeze comes from the south. Phoenix carriages throng in succession, one after another. Mountains and rivers veil in mist as spirits linger and circle about. Solemnly we perform the rites to report Heaven's accomplishments. Spiritual grace overflows to the nine reaches of the realm.
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奠玉帛廣平式時原神州。 吉土兮，中壇。 毖我郊兆原畤。 兮，孔安。 原嚴。 辟公趨蹌兮，就列； 原吉蠲。 考鍾伐鼓兮，舞般。 原肆筵。 黃琮纖縞兮，既奠； 原陳列。 靈光下燭兮，誠丹。 原誠悃宣。
Offering Jade and Silk (tune Guangping): Shishi; [Shunzhi:] Divine Land. Upon auspicious earth stands the central altar. Refined is our suburban precinct—[Shunzhi:] the sacred field. How utterly secure. [Shunzhi:] solemn and austere. The feudal lords hurry forward with measured steps to take their places in the ranks. [Shunzhi:] auspiciously purified. Bells are sounded and drums beaten; the Pan dance is performed. [Shunzhi:] the banquet mats are spread. The yellow cong jade, finely patterned, is already offered in place. [Shunzhi:] arrayed in solemn order. Spiritual light descends to shine upon us; our sincerity is red as cinnabar. [Shunzhi:] our sincere devotion is fully declared.
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進俎含平原咸平。 禮行樂奏原玉俎金奏。 兮，未央。 嘉肴有踐兮，大房。 牲牷告歆兮，惟恪； 民力普存兮，肅將。 厚載資生兮，無外； 几筵來格原俯鑒。 兮，洋洋。
Presenting the Sacrificial Meat (tune Hanping); [Shunzhi:] Xianping. As the rites proceed and music sounds—[Shunzhi:] jade offering-stands and golden instruments. The rite is not yet complete. Choice delicacies are brought forth on the great trays. Ox and sheep announce that the offering is accepted; we offer only reverence. The people's strength is sustained throughout the land; solemnly we present the offerings. Heavy Earth nourishes all life, excluding none. Tables and mats are set—the spirit draws near; [Shunzhi:] look down and discern us. Vast and ample is Your presence.
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初獻太平原壽平。 醴齊融冶兮，信芳。 原匏尊泛齊兮，朝踐揚。 博碩升庖兮，鼎方。 清風穆穆兮，休氣翔。 原靈旗張。 神明和樂兮，舉初觴。 洽百禮兮，禋祀； 罄九土兮，豐穰。
First Offering (tune Taiping); [Shunzhi:] Shouping. Ceremonial wine, blended to perfection, is truly fragrant. [Shunzhi:] Gourd goblets brim with clarified wine; at dawn we advance and raise them high. Broad and ample offerings rise to the kitchen; the tripods stand ready. The clear breeze blows solemn and still; auspicious breath soars on high. [Shunzhi:] the spirit-banner is raised. The spirits harmonize in joy; we raise the first libation. The hundred rites are joined in harmony in the fragrant smoke-offering. Throughout the nine provinces, harvests abound.
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亞獻安平一茅三脊兮，縮漿。 原江茅兮，縮漿。 山罍雲冪兮，馨香。 介黍稷兮，芳旨； 再滌犧尊兮，敬將。 原再展微誠兮，趨蹌。 樂成八變兮，綴兆； 原樂只。 儼皇祇兮，悅康。
Second Offering (tune Anping): A single bundle of river-reed with three ridges; we filter the libation. [Shunzhi:] river-reed bundles; we filter the libation. The mountain ale-vessel is cloud-veiled; fragrance rises rich and redolent. Millet and grain are heaped around; fragrant and delicious. Again we cleanse the sacrificial goblet and reverently present the offering. [Shunzhi:] once more we show our humble sincerity, hurrying forward with measured steps. The music completes its eight transformations; auspicious omens follow in sequence. [Shunzhi:] how joyous is the music. The august Earth spirit is solemnly pleased and at peace.
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終獻時平紫壇兮，嘉氣盈。 原方壇兮，豐薦盈。 旨酒思柔兮，和且平。 原中和平。 懍茲陟降兮，心屏營。 原陟降從容兮，駐雲軿。 禮成三獻兮，薦玉觥。 含宏光大兮，德厚； 靈佑丕基兮，永清。
Final Offering (tune Shiping): At the purple altar, auspicious breath fills all. [Shunzhi:] at the square altar, abundant offerings overflow. Fine wine, mellow and gentle, harmonious and serene. [Shunzhi:] centered, harmonious, and at peace. Reverently at this ascent and descent, my heart stands alert and vigilant. [Shunzhi:] ascending and descending at leisure, the cloud-chariot comes to rest. With three offerings the rites are complete; we present the jade goblet. All-embracing and vast in radiance; virtue deep and profound. The spirit guards the great foundation, forever pure and clear.
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徹饌貞平玉俎列兮，庶品該。 原尊俎畢兮，誠未虧。 黃琮告徹兮，雲翔徊。 原儀景暉。 晏陰定兮，曦景回。 原邀靈錫。 南訛秩兮，日恢台。 原奏薰時。 肅惟昭明兮，孔邇； 覃博厚奠兮，九垓。 原載群黎。
Removing the Offerings (tune Zhenping): Jade stands are set in rows; every kind of offering is complete. [Shunzhi:] goblets and stands are finished, yet our sincerity is undiminished. The yellow cong jade signals withdrawal; clouds soar and wheel about. [Shunzhi:] the solemn splendor of the rites. Twilight settles; the morning light turns back. [Shunzhi:] inviting the spirit's gracious gifts. The southern quarter stands in order; the sun spreads wide upon the terrace. [Shunzhi:] performing the fragrant seasonal rite. Solemn is the manifest brightness—so very near at hand. Broad and deep foundation extends to the nine reaches of the realm. [Shunzhi:] sustaining all the people.
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送神望瘞寧平靈旗兮，雲路遵。 原雲際屯。 飛龍蜿兮，高旻。 原飛龍兮，逝駸駸。 陰儀粹兮，德純。 眷四海兮，無塵。 配皇穹兮，兩大； 原化宣。 綏下土原綏百祿。 兮，蒸民。
Escorting the Spirit at the Watch-Burial Burning (tune Ningping): The spirit-banner follows the cloud-path on high. [Shunzhi:] massed at the edge of the clouds. The flying dragon coils through the high heavens. [Shunzhi:] the flying dragon departs in swift haste. The yin principle is pure; virtue is unadulterated. Gazing across the four seas, without a speck of dust. Paired with the lofty Heaven—two great powers together. [Shunzhi:] transforming influence is proclaimed. Pacifying the earth below—[Shunzhi:] bestowing the hundred blessings. —the common people.
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祈穀九章中和韶樂，黃鍾宮立宮，倍夷則下羽主調。
The nine hymn-cycles for the Prayer for Grain use Zhonghe ceremonial music, with the Huangzhong palace mode establishing the key and beiyize and the lower Yu pitch as the principal tonality.
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迎神祈平原中平。 帝篤祜民原惟帝勤民。 兮，求莫匪舒。 小民何依兮，飲食惟需。 原黍稷與與。 莫嘉於穀兮，萬事權輿。 原元日有事兮，百辟趨。 為民請命兮，豈非在予。 原食咸需。 日用辛兮，百辟趨。 原遙瞻龍駕兮，歷紫虛。 暾將出兮，東風徐。 原日臨黃道兮，東風徐。 惟予小子兮，敬盥陳孚。 原臣昭事兮，遑深寧居。 皇皇龍駕兮，穆將愉。 原原垂嘉惠兮，大有書。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Qiping); [Shunzhi:] Zhongping. The Emperor richly blesses the people—[Shunzhi:] the Emperor alone toils on the people's behalf. In all we seek, nothing fails to find its proper ease. On what do the common people depend? Only food and drink do they require. [Shunzhi:] millet and grain grow lush and abundant. Nothing exceeds grain in worth; it is the source and starting-point of all things. [Shunzhi:] on New Year's Day the rite begins; the hundred ministers hurry to attend. To plead for the people's lives—is not the duty mine? [Shunzhi:] Food is all they require. On this first xin day the hundred ministers hurry to attend. [Shunzhi:] Gazing from afar at the dragon carriage as it passes through the purple void. The sun is about to rise; the east wind blows gently. [Shunzhi:] The sun draws near the Yellow Path; the east wind blows gently. Only I, the young ruler, reverently wash my hands and show forth sincerity. [Shunzhi:] Your ministers serve with bright devotion; how could they rest in deep repose? Grand and glorious is the dragon carriage; in solemn dignity it is about to arrive in joy. Bestowing fine grace—great plenty is assured; [Shunzhi:] from the source bestowing fine grace, great abundance stands ordained.
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奠玉帛綏平原肅平。 念茲稼牆兮，惟民天。 原民天惟食兮，農事先。 農用八政兮，食為先。 原粒我烝民兮，有大田。 雨暘時若兮，玉燭全。 原風霆流形兮，雨澤霑。 粒我蒸民兮，迄用康年。 原實穎實栗兮，氣化全。 仰三無私兮，昭事虔。 原玉帛祗奉兮，禋祀虔。 奉璋承帛兮，栗若臨淵。 原仰祈寰宇兮，享豐年。
Offering Jade and Silk (tune Suping); [Shunzhi:] Suiping. Thinking on these crops and fields—food is heaven for the people. [Shunzhi:] For the people heaven is food; farming comes first. Among the eight pursuits of husbandry, food comes first. [Shunzhi:] Sustain our common people; there are great fields. Rain and sunshine come in their season; the jade tally of cosmic order is complete. [Shunzhi:] Wind and thunder take flowing shape; rain's grace soaks the land. Sustain the common people, that they may enjoy a year of plenty. [Shunzhi:] Full ears and plump grain; the transformation of breath is complete. Looking up to the Three Without Partiality, we perform the bright rites with devotion. [Shunzhi:] Jade and silk are reverently offered; the sacrifice is devout. Holding the scepter and receiving the silk, trembling as if standing beside a deep abyss. [Shunzhi:] Looking up to pray for all under heaven, that we may enjoy a bountiful year.
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進俎萬平原咸平。 鼎烹兮，苾芬。 嘉薦兮，無文。 升繭栗兮，惟犉。 原奉雕俎兮，大武。 膻薌達兮，干雲。 原氣干雲。 昭民力兮，普存。 原昭普存兮，民力。 惟明德兮，馨聞。
Presenting the Sacrificial Meat (tune Wanping); [Shunzhi:] Xianping. In cauldrons the offerings cook, richly fragrant. Fine offerings, without ornament. Cocoon and chestnut offerings are raised; only the tender bull is chosen. [Shunzhi:] Presenting the carved stand with the great martial victim. Savory fragrance rises, piercing the clouds. [Shunzhi:] Vapors pierce the clouds. Manifest the people's strength, universally preserved. [Shunzhi:] Manifest universal preservation—the people's strength. Only bright virtue; fragrant renown.
27
初獻寶平原壽平。 初獻兮，元原旨。 酒盈。 致純潔兮，儲精誠。 原著誠致潔兮，犧尊盛。 瑟黃流兮，罍承。 原儼對越兮，在上。 酌其中兮，外清明。 原惟昭明兮，有融。 儼對越兮，維清。 原瑟黃流兮，玉瓚。 帝心歆假兮，綏我思成。 原賚嘉禎。 知亞獻穰平原景平。 犧原著。 尊啟兮，告虔。 清酤既馨原次第。 兮，陳原舉。 前。 禮再獻兮，祠筵。 原肅拜。 光煜爚兮，非煙。 原列瑤觴兮，秩斯筵。 神悅懌兮，僾然。 原如在。 惠我嘉生兮，大有年。 原福便便。
First Offering (tune Baoping); [Shunzhi:] Shouping. At the first offering, primordial—[Shunzhi:] fine intent. Wine brims full. Achieving pure cleanliness, we store refined sincerity. [Shunzhi:] Presenting sincerity in purity; the sacrificial vessel brims full. The lute is strummed; amber liquor flows into the receiving lei vessel. [Shunzhi:] Solemnly facing the august one above. Drawing from its center, outwardly clear and bright. [Shunzhi:] Only bright illumination; there is harmony. Solemnly facing the august one, purely clear. [Shunzhi:] The lute is strummed; amber liquor flows in the jade libation cup. The Emperor's heart rejoices and approves; complete our thoughts of fulfillment. [Shunzhi:] Bestow auspicious omens. Second Offering (tune Jingping); [Shunzhi:] Rangping. Sacrificial vessel—[Shunzhi:] set forth. The vessel is opened, proclaiming reverence. Clear wine already fragrant—[Shunzhi:] in due order. —presented [Shunzhi:] raised up. Forward. At the rite of the second offering, at the sacrificial banquet. [Shunzhi:] Solemn bowing. Light blazes bright—not smoke. [Shunzhi:] Array jade cups; order this banquet. The spirit is pleased and delighted, as if present. [Shunzhi:] As if present. Bestow on us fine life; grant a great year of harvest. [Shunzhi:] Blessings abundant.
28
終獻瑞平原永平。 終獻兮，奉明粢。 原泰尊移。 苾芬嘉旨兮，清醴既釃。 原圭瓚交馳。 神其衎原神其醉止。 兮，錫祉； 禮成於三兮，陳詞。 原灑餘瀝兮，沐群黎。 臣拜手兮，青墀。 原望雲霓。
Final Offering (tune Ruiping); [Shunzhi:] Yongping. At the final offering, bright millet is presented. [Shunzhi:] The great vessel is moved. Richly fragrant fine flavors; clear sacrificial wine is already filtered. [Shunzhi:] Jade scepter and libation cup are exchanged in swift succession. May the spirit rejoice—[Shunzhi:] may the spirit be well intoxicated and satisfied. —bestow blessing; The rite completes at the third offering; words are proclaimed. [Shunzhi:] Sprinkle the remaining dregs, bathing all the people. Your servant bows with clasped hands on the blue terrace. [Shunzhi:] Gazing at cloud and rainbow.
29
徹饌渥平原凝平。 俎豆具陳兮，庶品宜。 原齊。 肸蠁昭鑒兮，荷帝慈。 原舉荷昭鑒兮，靡或遺。 饌告備原徹。 兮，玉幾； 登歌洋溢兮，廢徹不遲。 原式禮無違。 肅微忱兮，告終事； 上帝居歆兮，錫純禧。
Removing the Offerings (tune Woping); [Shunzhi:] Ningping. Stands and vessels are all set out; every offering is in its proper place. [Shunzhi:] Aligned. Spirit-perfume and bright scrutiny; receiving the Emperor's grace. [Shunzhi:] Raising up, receiving bright scrutiny; none is left out. Food is announced complete—[Shunzhi:] remove. —the jade mat; The ascending hymn overflows; offerings are removed without delay. [Shunzhi:] No breach of ritual form. With solemn sincerity we announce the rite's completion; The High God dwells in joy and bestows pure blessing.
30
送神滋平原清平。 祗奉天威兮，弗敢康。 小心翼翼兮，昭穹蒼。 雲垂九天兮，露瀼瀼。 翠旗羽節兮，上翱翔。 原歸何鄉。 臣拜下風兮，肅原意。 徬徨。 原沛汪澤兮，民多蓋藏。 原時其雨暘。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Ziping); [Shunzhi:] Qingping. Reverently receiving Heaven's majesty, I dare not be at ease. Cautious and careful, manifest to the azure vault. Clouds hang over the nine heavens; dew drips abundantly. Emerald banners and feather insignia soar on high. [Shunzhi:] To what realm do You return? Your servant bows below the wind in solemn—[Shunzhi:] intent, wandering in hesitation. [Shunzhi:] Vast and overflowing marshes; the people store much in granaries. [Shunzhi:] Timely rain and sunshine.
31
望燎穀平原太平。 卬原翹。 首兮，天閶。 混茫一氣兮，浩無方。 原★A0彼雲海兮，何蒼茫。 焫蕭束帛兮，薦馨香。 精誠感格兮，降福穰穰。 四時順序兮，百穀以昌。 臣周兆姓兮，咸荷恩光。
Burning Offerings at the Watch Fire (tune Guping); [Shunzhi:] Taiping. Heads raised—[Shunzhi:] lifting on high, toward the gates of Heaven. Vast and obscure, a single breath—boundless without limit. [Shunzhi:] [text lost] that cloud-sea—how vast and boundless. Burning artemisia and bundled silk, we offer fragrant incense. Sincerity moves and reaches upward; blessings descend in abundance. The four seasons follow their proper sequence; the hundred grains flourish. All the myriad clans among your subjects receive the gracious light.
32
社稷壇七章中和韶樂，春夾鍾清商立宮，倍應鍾清變宮主調； 秋南呂清徵立宮，仲呂清角主調。
The seven hymn-cycles for the Altar of Soil and Grain use Zhonghe ceremonial music; in spring the Jiazhong qing shang pitch establishes the mode, with beiyingzhong and the qing bian gong pitch as the principal tonality; In autumn the Nanlü qing zhi pitch establishes the mode, with Zhonglü qing jue as the principal tonality.
33
迎神登平原廣平。 媼神蕃釐兮，厚德隆。 原猗歟土穀兮，功化隆。 嘉生繁祉兮，功化同。 原蒸民立命兮，九域同。 壇壝儼肅兮，風露融。 原通。 我稷翼翼兮，黍芃芃。 原俎豆豐。 望雲駕兮，驂鸞龍。 植璧秉圭兮，冀感通。 原秉圭植璧兮，予親躬。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Dengping); [Shunzhi:] Guangping. Earth Mother, rich in blessing; your deep virtue rises high. [Shunzhi:] Ah, the soil and grain! Your transforming merit rises high. Fine growth and abundant blessings; transforming merit is one. [Shunzhi:] The common people receive life; the nine regions are alike. The altar enclosure stands solemn and austere; wind and dew mingle. [Shunzhi:] All-pervading. Our millet stands tall; the panicled millet grows lush and thriving. [Shunzhi:] Sacrificial vessels and stands, abundant. Gazing at the cloud-chariot, flanked by luan birds and dragons. Setting up the bi disk and holding the gui scepter, we hope to move and connect. [Shunzhi:] Holding the gui and setting the bi, I personally attend.
34
奠玉帛、初獻茂平原壽平。 恪恭禋祀兮，肅且雍。 原禋祀黝牲兮，北郊同。 清醑原酤。 既載兮，臨齋宮。 朝踐初舉兮，玉帛共。 原鑒予衷。 洋洋在上兮，鑒予衷。 原錫福洪。
Offering Jade and Silk · First Offering (tune Maoping); [Shunzhi:] Shouping. Reverently and respectfully we perform the sacrifice, solemn and harmonious. [Shunzhi:] The sacrifice with the black victim, the same as at the northern suburb. Clear aromatic wine—[Shunzhi:] fermented brew. Already laden, we approach the fasting palace. At dawn we perform the first raising; jade and silk together. [Shunzhi:] Discern my inner heart. Vast and abundant above, discern my inner heart. [Shunzhi:] Bestow blessing in abundance.
35
亞獻育平原嘉平。 樂具入奏兮，聲喤喤，郁鬯再升兮，賓八鄉。 原兕觥其觩兮，恭再揚。 厚德配地兮，佑家邦。 綏我豐年原屢豐年。 兮，兆庶康。
Second Offering (tune Yuping); [Shunzhi:] Jiaping. The full ensemble enters and plays; the sound resounds grandly; aromatic wine is raised again, and guests come from the eight directions. [Shunzhi:] The rhinoceros horn goblet with its curved horn is reverently raised again. Thick virtue matching Earth protects family and state. Grant us bountiful years—[Shunzhi:] year after year of bounty. Ah!—the myriad people live in peace.
36
終獻敦平原雍平。 方壇北宇兮，神中央。 盈庭萬原帗。 舞兮，犮原時低昂。 酌酒原酳。 三爵兮，桂原綠。 醑香。 清雖舊邦原新舊邦。 兮，命溥將。
Final Offering (tune Dunping); [Shunzhi:] Yongping. At the square altar in the northern realm, the spirit stands at the center. Myriad dancers fill the courtyard—[Shunzhi:] feather-dance banners. They dance—[Shunzhi:] now rising and falling. Pouring wine—[Shunzhi:] the post-sacrifice toast. Three libations; cassia—[Shunzhi:] green. Fragrant spiced wine. Pure though an old domain—[Shunzhi:] new and old domains. Ah!—the mandate is broadly extended.
37
徹饌博平原熙平。 大房籩豆原籩豆大房。 兮，儼成行。 歆此吉蠲兮，神迪嘗。 原猶迴翔。 廢徹不遲原椒漿瑤席。 兮，餘芬芳。 桐生茂豫兮，百穀昌。 原黍稷非馨兮，悅且康。
Removing the Offerings (tune Boping); [Shunzhi:] Xiping. The great chamber, platters and stands—[Shunzhi:] platters and stands, great chamber. Ah!—solemnly arrayed in rows. Delight in this auspicious purity; the spirit comes to taste. [Shunzhi:] Still wheeling and circling. Clearing the offerings without delay—[Shunzhi:] pepper broth and jade mats. Ah!—remaining fragrance. Paulownia grows lush in Yu; the hundred grains flourish. [Shunzhi:] Millet and grain are not the fragrance; there is joy and peace.
38
送神樂平原成平。 孔蓋翠旌兮，隨風颺。 龍輈容與兮，指天閶。 咫尺神靈兮，隔穹蒼。 原流景祚兮，貺皇章。 原流景祚兮，卜世昌。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Leping); [Shunzhi:] Chengping. Great canopy and emerald banners flutter with the wind. The dragon carriage moves at ease, pointing toward Heaven's gate. So close the spirits, yet separated by the azure vault. [Shunzhi:] Flowing glorious fortune; granting royal emblems. [Shunzhi:] Flowing glorious fortune; auguring generations of prosperity.
39
望瘞徵平原成平。 玉既陳原牲玉陳。 兮，延景光。 禮既洽原百禮既洽。 兮，終瘞藏。 原神聽兮，時予匡。 垂神佑兮，永無疆。 原四海攸同兮，惠無疆。
Burning Offerings at the Watch Fire (tune Zhengping); [Shunzhi:] Chengping. Jade already displayed—[Shunzhi:] victims and jade displayed. Ah!—extending radiant glory. Rites already complete—[Shunzhi:] all hundred rites complete. Ah!—at last buried and stored. [Shunzhi:] Spirit, listen; timely grant me guidance. Bestow divine protection, forever without bound. [Shunzhi:] Within the four seas all is one; grace without bound.
40
社稷壇祈雨、報祀七章乾隆十八年定。 中和韶樂，仲呂清角立宮，大呂清宮主調。 初祈用夾鍾清商立宮，報南呂清徵立宮，旋改隨月用律宮譜，舉四月為例。 祈晴、報祀同。
The seven hymn-cycles for rain-prayer and thanksgiving at the Altar of Soil and Grain were fixed in Qianlong 18 (1753). The Zhonghe ceremonial music uses the Zhonglü qing jue pitch to establish the mode, with Dalü qing gong as the principal tonality. For the initial prayer the Jiazhong qing shang pitch establishes the mode; for thanksgiving the Nanlü qing zhi pitch does so; this was later revised to follow monthly pitch standards, with April taken as the example. The clear-weather prayer and thanksgiving rites are the same.
41
迎神延豐九土博厚兮，阜嘉生。 方壇五色兮，祀孔明。 甿力穡兮，服耕。 仰甘膏兮，百穀用成。 熙雲路兮，瞻翠旌。 殷闓澤兮，展精誠。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Yanfeng): The nine lands, thick and generous; abundant fine growth. At the square altar in five colors, the sacrifice is brightly accomplished. Farmers exert their strength in tillage, serving in farming. Looking up for sweet moisture, the hundred grains are thereby fulfilled. On the bright cloud-path we gaze at the emerald banners. Grace opens abundantly as we display refined sincerity.
42
奠玉帛、初獻介丰神來格兮，宜我黍稷。 兩主有邸兮，馨明德。 罍尊湛湛兮，干羽飭。 油雲澍雨兮，溥下國。
Offering Jade and Silk · First Offering (tune Jiefeng): The spirit arrives; fitting for our millet and grain. Both lords have their lodges; fragrant bright virtue. Jar and goblet brim deep; shield and feather regalia are adorned. Oily clouds and soaking rain spread widely over the land.
43
亞獻滋豐奏明兮，申載觴。 龍出泉兮，靈安翔。 周寰宇兮，滂洋。 載神庥兮，悅康。
Second Offering (tune Zifeng): Music bright; again we raise the cup. The dragon emerges from the spring; the spirit peacefully soars. Throughout all the realm, vast and overflowing. Bearing divine grace, we know joy and peace.
44
終獻霈豐帗容與兮，奮皇舞。 聲遠姚兮，震靈鼓。 爵三奏兮，縮桂醑。 號屏來御兮，德施普。
Final Offering (tune Peifeng): Feather-banner dancing at ease; vigorously performing the imperial dance. Sound reaches far and resonant, shaking the spirit drums. Three libations are performed; cassia spiced wine is drawn off. Spirits herald and come to attend; virtue is spread universally.
45
徹饌綏豐協笙磬兮，告吉蠲。 神迪嘗兮，禮莫愆。 心齋肅兮，增惕乾。 咨田畯兮，其樂有年。
Removing the Offerings (tune Suifeng): Flutes and chime-stones in harmony proclaim auspicious purity. The spirit comes to taste; the rites are without fault. Heart purified in fasting and solemn, we increase reverent awe for Heaven. Consulting the field overseer—how joyful, a year of plenty!
46
送神貽豐撫懷心兮，神聿歸。 蓋郅偈兮，驂虯騑。 洪釐渥兮，雨祁祁。 公私霑足兮，孰知所為。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Yifeng): Soothing the heart, the spirit swiftly returns. The canopy is drawn taut, flanked by hornless dragon steeds. Vast blessing, rich and deep; rain falls gently and long. Public and private needs are all satisfied—who knows by whose doing?
47
望瘞溥豐宣祝嘏兮，列瘞繒。 貺允答兮，時欽承。 高原下隰兮，以莫不興。 歌率育兮，慶三登。
Burning Offerings at the Watch Fire (tune Pufeng): Proclaiming blessing prayer; arraying burial silks. Grace is truly answered; timely received and upheld. Highlands and low marshes—none that does not rise and flourish. We sing of nurturing all, celebrating three harvests in a year.
48
社稷壇祈晴、報祀七章嘉慶十一年重定。 中和韶樂，仲呂清角立宮，大呂清宮主調。 齋迎神延和庶匯涵育兮，陽德亨。 句萌茁達兮，物向榮。 方壇潔兮，展誠。 迓休和兮，寰宇鏡清。 祈昭格兮，瞻翠旌。 沐日月兮，百寶生。
The seven hymn-cycles for clear-weather prayer and thanksgiving at the Altar of Soil and Grain were revised in Jiaqing 11 (1806). The Zhonghe ceremonial music uses the Zhonglü qing jue pitch to establish the mode, with Dalü qing gong as the principal tonality. Welcoming the Spirit at the Fast-Day Rites (tune Yanhe): All converging, nourished and sustained; yang virtue prevails. Sprouts bud, grow, and reach upward; all things turn toward glory. The square altar stands pure; we display our sincerity. Welcoming harmonious repose; all under Heaven is clear as a mirror. We pray for luminous presence, gazing at the emerald banners. Bathed in sun and moon, the hundred treasures spring to life.
49
奠玉帛、初獻兆和瑟圭瓚兮，通微合漠。 神歆明德兮，鑒誠恪。 昭回雲漢兮，噓橐籥。 曜靈司晷兮，時暘若。
Offering Jade and Silk · First Offering (tune Zhaohe): Zithers, jade tablets, and libation cups—penetrating the subtle, joining the vast expanse. The spirit delights in bright virtue and discerns our sincere reverence. Brightly wheeling through the Milky Way, blowing the bellows-bags. The glorious spirit governs the sundial; fair weather comes in season.
50
亞獻布和申獻侑兮，奉明。 薦馨香兮，和氣隨。 神介福兮，孔綏。 耀光明兮，九逵。
Second Offering (tune Buhe): Again offering assistance, presenting brightness. We offer fragrant aroma; harmonizing qi follows. The spirit bestows blessing; great ease follows. Bright light shines upon the nine crossroads.
51
終獻協和帗羽舞兮，一風敞。 爵三奏兮，告成享。 順年祝兮，泰階朗。 元冥收陰兮，日掌賞。
Final Offering (tune Xiehe): Feather-banner and plume dance; one breeze, open and wide. Three libations are performed, announcing completion of the offering feast. Blessing prayer for favorable years; the Great Steps stand lucid. Primordial darkness gathers yin; the sun in charge grants reward.
52
徹饌雍和籩俎徹兮，受福多。 笙磬同兮，六律和。 庶徵協兮，時無頗。 熙樂利兮，東作南訛。
Removing the Offerings (tune Yonghe): Trays and stands are cleared; we receive abundant blessing. Flutes and chime-stones sound together; the six pitch standards harmonize. Many seasonal signs are in accord; the seasons know no deviation. Joyful music brings benefit—the eastern labor, the southern growing season.
53
送神豐和神聿歸兮，華蓋揚。 羲和整馭兮，虯螭翔。 遍臨照兮，協農祥。 天清地寧兮，黍稷豐穰。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Fenghe): The spirit swiftly returns; the splendid canopy is raised. Xihe adjusts the reins; hornless dragons soar. Ubiquitously overseeing and illuminating, harmonizing agricultural auspice. Heaven is clear, earth is tranquil; millet and grain grow abundantly ripe.
54
常雩九章乾隆七年定。 中和韶樂，黃鍾宮立宮，倍夷則下羽主調。
The nine hymn-cycles for the regular rain-prayer were established in Qianlong 7 (1742). The Zhonghe ceremonial music uses the Huangzhong gong pitch to establish the mode, with beiyize xia yu as the principal tonality.
55
迎神靄平粒我蒸民兮，神降嘉生。 雨暘時若兮，百穀用成。 龍見而雩兮，先民有程。 臣膺天祚兮，敢不承。 念我農兮，心靡寧。 肅明禋兮，殫精誠。 靈皇皇兮，穆以清。 金支五色兮，罨靄蜺旌。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Aiping): Nourishing our myriad people; the spirit descends with fine growth. Rain and sunshine come in season; the hundred grains are thereby fulfilled. When the dragon appears, rain-prayer is held; the ancients had their procedure. Your subject receives Heaven's mandate; how dare I not uphold it? Thinking of our farmers, my heart finds no rest. Solemnly performing the sub-altar rite, I exhaust refined sincerity. The spirit is august and bright, solemn and pure. Golden branches in five colors; mist veils the rainbow banners.
56
奠玉帛雲平玉帛載陳兮，磬管鏘鏘。 為民請命兮，惕弗敢康。 令清和兮，遂百昌。 麥秀歧兮，禾茀稂。 日照九兮，時雨滂。 俾萬寶兮，千斯倉。
Offering Jade and Silk (tune Yunping): Jade and silk fully displayed; chime-stones and pipes resound. Pleading for the people's lives, vigilant—I dare not seek ease. Ordaining clarity and harmony, thus the hundred prosperities follow. Wheat ears grow forked; millet stands rank with weeds. The sun shines on the nine regions; timely rain pours abundantly. Causing myriad treasures to fill a thousand granaries.
57
進俎需平越十雨兮，越五風。 三光昭明兮，嘉氣蒙。 天所與兮，眇躬。 予小子兮，懍降豐。 紛總總兮，賴皇穹。 犉牡鬺亨兮，達臣衷。
Presenting the Sacrificial Stands (tune Xuping): Surpassing ten rains, surpassing five winds. Sun, moon, and stars shine brightly; auspicious qi enshrouds all. What Heaven grants falls upon this humble person. I, the little one, reverently receive abundance. Multitudes upon multitudes rely on the august vault of Heaven. Fat bullocks and rams are steamed and cooked, reaching the minister's innermost heart.
58
初獻霖平酌彼兮，罍洗； 飶芬兮，椒香。 愧明德兮，維馨。 假黍稷兮，誠將。 原大父兮，念茲眾子； 穆將愉兮，綏以豐穰。
First Offering (tune Linping): Drawing therefrom—the jar and washing vessel; Fragrant and aromatic—pepper fragrance. Ashamed before bright virtue, only fragrance remains. Through millet and grain, sincerity will convey our prayer. [Shunzhi:] Great ancestor, thinking of these many children; Solemnly about to rejoice, bestowing abundant harvest.
59
亞獻露平再酌兮，醑清。 仰在上兮，明明。 庶來格兮，鑒誠。 曷敢必兮，屏營。 合萬國兮，形神精。 承神至尊兮，思成。
Second Offering (tune Luping): Pouring again—spiced wine, clear. Looking up to what is above—bright and clear. May you come and discern our sincerity. How dare I be presumptuous? I hold my breath in awe. Joining the ten thousand states, form and spirit refined. Receiving the supreme spirit, our thoughts are accomplished.
60
終獻霑平三酌兮，成純。 備物致志兮，敬陳。 多士兮，駿奔。 靈承無斁兮，明禋。 維蕃釐兮，媼神。 雨留甘兮，良苗懷新。
Final Offering (tune Zhanping): Three pourings achieve purity. All things prepared to express intent are reverently displayed. Many officers swiftly rush forward. The spirit receives without satiety—the bright sub-altar rite. Only abundant blessing—the Earth Mother spirit. Rain leaves sweetness behind; fine seedlings cherish the new.
61
徹饌靈平禮將成兮，舞已終。 徹弗遲兮，畏神恫。 原留福兮，惠吾農。 神之貺兮，協氣融。 遂及私兮，越我公。 五者來備兮，錫用豐。
Removing the Offerings (tune Lingping): The rites are about to conclude; the dance has already ended. Clearing without delay, fearing divine warning. [Shunzhi:] Retain blessing; favor our farmers. The spirit's granting harmonizes and blends the qi. Reaching even the private realm, extending to our lord. The five seasonal factors all present; bestowment is abundantly granted.
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送神霮平祥風瑞靄兮，彌靈壇。 上帝居歆兮，風肅然。 左蒼龍兮，右白虎； 般裔裔兮，糺縵縵。 仰九閶兮，返御； 介祉釐兮，康年。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Dianping): Auspicious wind and propitious mist fill the spirit altar. High God dwells delighted; the wind falls solemnly still. Azure dragon on the left, white tiger on the right; Banners trail richly; pennants flow long. Gazing up at the nine gates of Heaven, returning to the imperial carriage; Great blessing is bestowed; prosperous years follow.
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望燎霈平碧翏翏兮，不可度思。 九奏終兮，爟火晳而。 神光四燭兮，休氣夥頤。 安匪舒兮，抑抑威儀。 帝求民莫兮，日鑒在茲。 錫福繁祉兮，庶徵曰時。
Burning Offerings at the Watch Fire (tune Peiping): Green and vast beyond measure to ponder. Nine performances ended; the torch flames bright and clear. Divine light illuminates the four quarters; blessed qi abundantly nourishes all. At ease yet not lax—solemn and dignified ceremonial bearing. The Emperor seeks the people's repose; daily scrutiny is here. Bestowing blessing and abundant felicity; the many signs declare the seasons timely.
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大雩雲漢詩八章高宗御制。 中和韶樂，黃鍾宮立宮，倍夷則下羽主調。
The eight Cloud-Han Poem chapters for the major rain-prayer were composed by the Qianlong Emperor. The Zhonghe ceremonial music uses the Huangzhong gong pitch to establish the mode, with beiyize xia yu as the principal tonality.
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瞻彼硃鳥，爰居實沈。 協紀辨律，羽蟲徵音。 萬物芸生，有壬有林。 有事南郊，陟降維欽。 瞻仰昊天，生物為心。 一章維國有本，匪民伊何。 維民有天，匪食則那。 螻蟈鳴矣，平秩南訛。 我祀敢後，我樂維和。 鼉鼓淵淵，童舞娑娑。 二章自古在昔，春郊夏雩。 曰維龍見，田燭朝趨。 盛禮既陳，神留以愉。 雷師闐闐，飛廉衙衙。 曰時雨暘，利我新畬。 三章於穆穹宇，在郊之南。 對越嚴恭，上帝是臨。 繭栗量幣，用將悃忱。 惴惴我躬，肅肅我心。 六事自責，仰彼桑林。 四章權輿粒食，實維后稷。 百王承之，永奠邦極。 惟予小子，臨民無德。 敢解祈年，潔衷翼翼。 命彼秩宗，古禮是式。 五章古禮是式，值茲吉辰。 玉磬金鐘，太羹維醇。 玄衣八列，舞羽繽紛。 既侑上帝，亦右從神。 尚鑒我衷，錫我康年。 六章惟天可感，曰維誠恪。 惟農可稔，曰維力作。 恃天慢人，弗刈弗穫。 尚勸農哉，服田孔樂。 咨爾保介，庤乃錢鎛。 七章我禮既畢，我誠已將。 風馬電車，旋駕九閶。 山川出雲，為霖澤滂。 雨公及私，興鋤利轆。 億萬斯年，農夫之慶。 八章
Gazing at the vermilion bird, dwelling at Shichen. Aligning the calendar records and distinguishing pitch standards, feathered creatures sound the zhi tone. Myriad things verdantly spring forth, abundant and luxuriant. Having rites at the southern suburban altar, ascending and descending—all reverent. Looking up to vast Heaven, nurturing life is Its heart. Chapter One: The state has its root—if not the people, then what? The people have Heaven—without food, what then? The mole cricket chirps; setting in order the southern growing season. Our sacrifice dare not lag; our music is harmonious. Crocodile drums sound deep and resonant; children dance gracefully. Chapter Two: From ancient times, spring suburban rites and summer rain-prayer. It is when the dragon appears—field torches, hurrying at dawn. Grand rites already arrayed, the spirit stays to delight. Thunder Master resounds; Feilian whistles. They say timely rain and sunshine benefit our newly cleared fields. Chapter Three: So solemn the vaulted heavens, south of the suburban altar. With solemn reverence we face Heaven; High God draws near. Cocoon-like and chestnut-sized silks convey our pure sincerity. Fearful in body, solemn in heart. On six affairs I reproach myself, gazing up at Sanglin. Chapter Four: Grain as food had its beginning in Lord Millet. A hundred kings inherit it, forever establishing the foundation of the realm. Only I, the little one, govern the people yet lack virtue. I dare perform the prayer for abundant years, purifying my heart with utmost care. I charge the Director of Ritual—the ancient rites are the model. Chapter Five: Ancient rites are the model, on this auspicious day. Jade chime-stones and bronze bells; the great broth is pure and rich. Dark robes in eight ranks; feathered dancers in brilliant array. Having assisted High God, we also assist the attending spirits. Still discern our inner hearts; bestow upon us prosperous years. Chapter Six: Heaven alone may be moved—they say through sincerity and reverence. Only farming yields harvest—they say through toil alone. Rely on Heaven yet slight the people—neither reap nor harvest. Still exhort farming! Tilling the fields brings great joy. Hear this, field officers—repair your hoes and ploughshares. Chapter Seven: Our rites are complete; our sincerity has been conveyed. Wind-horses and thunder-chariot swiftly drive through the nine gates of Heaven. Mountains and rivers send forth clouds; timely rain pours abundantly. Rain on public fields and private plots; hoes rise and water wheels turn. For myriad myriad years—the farmers' celebration. Chapter Eight.
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朝日七章順治八年定，乾隆七年重改。 初制分載句中。 夕月同。 中和韶樂，太簇商立宮，倍無射變宮主調。 齋迎神寅曦羲馭兮，寅賓。 原於昭兮，旭輪。 光煜爚兮，紅輪。 原浴虞淵兮，初升。 春已融兮，交泰； 循典禮兮，明禋。 原惟馨。 嚴大采兮，祗肅。 原焫蕭艾兮，祗肅。 神之來兮，如云。 原神其聽兮，和平。
Morning Sun, seven chapters—established in the eighth year of Shunzhi, heavily revised in the seventh year of Qianlong. The original Shunzhi version is noted line by line within the text. The Evening Moon rite follows the same pattern. The Zhonghe ceremonial music uses the Taicu shang pitch to establish the mode, with beiwuzi bian gong as the principal tonality. Fasting · Welcoming the Spirit (tune Yinxi): Xi drove his carriage—the dawn hour receives its guest. [Shunzhi:] Bright and luminous—the rising sun-wheel. Bright and blazing—the red wheel. [Shunzhi:] Bathing in the Yu abyss, first ascending. Spring already thawed; yin and yang in harmony; Following canonical rites—the bright sub-altar ceremony. [Shunzhi:] Only fragrant. Solemn in grand regalia, reverently austere. [Shunzhi:] Burning mugwort and wormwood, reverently austere. The spirit comes like clouds. [Shunzhi:] Spirit, hear—peace and harmony.
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奠玉帛朝曦杲黃道兮，暾出； 原神來格兮，太乙東。 肅將享原統萬國。 兮，玉帛同。 美齊翼兮，王君公。 原肅將享兮，承篚筐。 盥以薦兮，昭格通。 原盥以薦兮，孚有容。
Offering Jade and Silk (tune Chaoxi): Bright on the Yellow Way, the sun emerges; [Shunzhi:] The spirit comes—Great Unity in the east. Solemnly about to feast—[Shunzhi:] governing the myriad states. Ah, jade and silk alike. Exquisite qi and yi vessels—kings, lords, and dukes. [Shunzhi:] Solemnly about to feast, receiving the baskets. Washed to offer—bright presence extends through. [Shunzhi:] Washed to offer—trust has its form.
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初獻清曦御景風兮，下帝扃。 原御景風兮，神式臨。 酌黃目原酌清酤。 兮，椒其馨。 爵方舉兮，歌且舞； 漾和盎兮，龍旗青。 原憑龍勺兮，吹鳳笙。
First Offering (tune Qingxi): Riding the scenic wind, descending at the Heavenly gate. [Shunzhi:] Riding the scenic wind—the spirit draws near. Pouring from the huangmu vessel—[Shunzhi:] pouring clear ale. Ah, pepper is fragrant. The cup just raised—singing and dancing; Rippling harmony in vessels; azure dragon banners. [Shunzhi:] Relying on the dragon ladle, blowing the phoenix sheng.
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亞獻咸曦再舉勺原奠。 兮，鬱金香。 嘉樂和兮，舞洋洋。 德恢大兮，神哉沛； 原神飲食兮，意徜徉。 澹容與兮，進霞觴。 原容貌舒兮，和以康。
Second Offering (tune Xianxi): Raising the ladle again—[Shunzhi:] offering. Ah, saffron fragrance. Fine music harmonious; dance expansive and graceful. Virtue vast and great—spirit how abundant; [Shunzhi:] Spirit eating and drinking, mind wandering at ease. Leisurely and at ease, presenting the rosy goblet. [Shunzhi:] Countenance relaxed—harmony brings health.
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終獻純曦式禮莫愆兮，昭清。 原式禮未竭兮，還升。 終以告虔兮，休成。 原醁醽。 原神且留兮，鑒茹； 以妥以侑兮，忱誠。 原以侑以勸兮，至誠。
Final Offering (tune Chunxi): Rites performed without fault—bright and pure. [Shunzhi:] Rites not yet exhausted, returning to ascend. At last declaring devotion—rest and accomplishment. [Shunzhi:] Sweet clear wine. [Shunzhi:] Spirit, stay awhile—discern the offerings; Bringing peace and urging on—sincere devotion. [Shunzhi:] Urging on and encouraging—utmost sincerity.
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徹饌延曦物之備兮，希德馨。 原儀既成兮，物已饗。 神欲起兮，景杳冥。 原神欲起兮，運靈爽。 徹不遲兮，咸肅穆。 原徹不敢遲兮，慎趨蹌。 照臨下土兮，瞻曜靈。 原照下土兮，常朗朗。
Removing the Offerings (tune Yanxi): Things fully prepared, hoping virtue is fragrant. [Shunzhi:] Rites already accomplished—things already consumed. Spirit wishes to rise—the scene dim and dark. [Shunzhi:] Spirit wishes to rise, moving the numinous essence. Clearing without delay—all solemn and reverent. [Shunzhi:] Clearing without daring delay, carefully stepping in rhythm. Illuminating the lower realm, gazing upon the sun spirit. [Shunzhi:] Illuminating the lower realm, ever bright and clear.
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送神歸曦雲車征兮，風馬翔。 猋萬里兮，臨萬方。 原馳驅千仞兮，臨萬方。 報神功兮，以時享，祈神祐兮，永無疆。 原再拜手兮，稱送； 神振轡兮，當陽。 中天麗兮，徹隱； 普天戴兮，恩光。 敷和煦兮，成物； 錫萬寶兮，永康。 報神功兮，時饗； 祈神祐兮，悠久無疆。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Guixi): Cloud-chariot sets forth, wind-horses soar. Sweeping ten thousand li, overseeing the myriad regions. [Shunzhi:] Galloping a thousand ren, overseeing the myriad regions. Reporting divine merit, offering seasonal sacrifices; praying for divine protection—forever without bound. [Shunzhi:] Twice bowing with hands, proclaiming the send-off; Spirit shakes the reins, facing the sun. Mid-heaven resplendent—brilliance withdrawn; All Heaven receives grace and light. Spreading gentle warmth, completing the ten thousand things; Bestowing myriad treasures—everlasting peace. Reporting divine merit—seasonal feasting; Praying for divine protection—long enduring, boundless.
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夕月七章中和韶樂，南宮清徵立宮，仲呂清角主調。
Evening Moon, seven chapters. The Zhonghe ceremonial music uses the Nangong qing zhi pitch to establish the mode, with zhonglü qing jue as the principal tonality.
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迎神迎光繼日代明兮，象麗天。 原猗歟太陰兮，御望舒。 式遵九道兮，臨八埏。 原式遵九道兮，游清虛。 玉律分秋兮，西顥躔。 原駕冰輪兮，行西陸。 聿修毖祀兮，樂在懸。 原今之夕兮，來饗予。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Yingguang): Continuing the day, replacing light—mirroring the beautiful Heaven. [Shunzhi:] How lovely the great yin, driving Wangshu. Following the nine paths, reaching the eight boundaries. [Shunzhi:] Following the nine paths, roaming pure emptiness. Jade pitch-pipes mark autumn—the western brightness advances. [Shunzhi:] Driving the ice wheel, traversing the western quarter. Urgently performing the pure sacrifice—music hangs suspended. [Shunzhi:] This evening—come feast with me.
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奠玉帛、初獻升光少採兮，將事； 玉帛兮，載陳。 原有來雍雍，幣帛在陳。 琮璜以嘉，明德維馨。 式舉黃流兮，挹犧尊。 籩豆靜嘉兮，餚核芬。
Offering Jade and Silk · First Offering (tune Shengguang): Slight color—about to perform the rite; Jade and silk, fully displayed. [Shunzhi:] There comes a gracious presence; silk offerings are displayed. Cong and huang jades offered as fine gifts; luminous virtue, fragrant virtue. Let us raise the golden libation and draw from the sacrificial vessel. The bian and dou trays are serene and fine; delicacies and fruits are fragrant.
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亞獻瑤光齊醍兮，載獻； 神之來兮，肅然。 原二齊載升，維以告虔。 歌管鍠鍠，奉神之歡。 仰肸蠁兮，鑒顧； 原荷亙古兮，麗天。 挹清光兮，几筵。
Second Offering (tune Yaoguang): Clarified cream—again we offer; The spirit comes—solemnly. [Shunzhi:] Both offerings raised together, to declare our devotion. Songs and pipes resound, offering joy to the spirit. Looking up for blessing and auspicious signs—may You inspect and regard us; [Shunzhi:] Bearing the beauty of Heaven from of old. Drawing pure radiance to altar and mat.
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終獻瑞光戛瑟鳴琴兮，鋗玉鏘。 神嘉虞兮，申三觴。 金波穆穆兮，珠熉黃。 休嘉砰隱兮，溢四方。 原一敬畢申，三舉原釂。 誠信潔齊，天下有道。 鼓鍾簡兮，聲容並茂。 象大德兮，厥光皓皓。
Final Offering (tune Ruiguang): The se is stopped, the zithers sound—jade pendants ring. The spirit rejoices—thrice the cups are raised. Golden waves flow gently; pearls glow amber-yellow. Good fortune thunders softly, overflowing to the four quarters. [Shunzhi:] When one act of reverence is complete, three times the cup is raised—[Shunzhi:] drained dry. With sincerity, trust, and pure devotion, the realm is in proper order. Drums and bells, simple and grand—sound and bearing equally splendid. Mirroring great virtue—its light shines bright.
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徹饌涵光對越在天兮，禮成。 徹登豆兮，湛露零。 神悅懌兮，德馨。 世曼壽兮，安以寧。 原其香既歆。 對越告成。 徹爾登豆，敬用駿奔。 神悅懌兮，意欣欣。 予翼慎兮，安以寧。
Clearing the Feast (tune Hanguang): Facing Heaven above—the rite is complete. The dou trays are withdrawn; heavy dew falls. The spirit is pleased and delighted; virtue is fragrant. The age long in life—peace and tranquillity. [Shunzhi:] Its fragrance already enjoyed. Facing Heaven, the rite is declared complete. Withdrawing the dou trays, reverently running swift. The spirit pleased and delighted—its heart joyous. I guard and am careful—peace and tranquillity.
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送神保光駕卿雲兮，景星。 御和風兮，霞軿。 神留俞兮，壇宇。 福率土兮，黃丁。 原彩駕霞兮，驂景星。 御和風兮，躡慶雲。 神欲起兮，不再停。 瞻天衢兮，拜雲程。 影蹁躚兮，光澄清。 饗予誠兮，意殷勤。 予所祝兮，世太平。 偃武修文兮，萬世長春。
Sending off the Spirit (tune Baoguang): Riding auspicious clouds—the jing star. Steering the gentle wind in the rosy-cloud carriage. The spirit lingers kindly in the altar precinct. Blessings over the land—the common folk. [Shunzhi:] In colored carriage on rosy clouds, flanked by jing stars. Steering the gentle wind, treading on auspicious clouds. The spirit would rise—no more lingering. Gazing at Heaven's thoroughfare, bowing on the cloud path. Shadows dance gracefully—light pure and clear. Feasting on my sincerity—intent earnest and devoted. What I pray for—peace throughout the age. Sheathing arms and cultivating culture—spring eternal for ten thousand ages.
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大享殿合祀天地百神九章順治十七年定，後未施行，故宮譜失載。 乾隆十六年，改大享殿為祈年殿，於此行祈穀之禮焉。 祈穀樂章見前。
The nine hymn-cycles for the combined sacrifice to Heaven, Earth, and the hundred spirits at the Great Sacrifice Hall were fixed in Shunzhi 17 (1660); they were never later implemented, so the palace music records omit them. In Qianlong 16 (1751) the Great Sacrifice Hall was renamed the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, and there the prayer-for-grain rite was performed. The prayer-for-grain hymn text appears above.
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迎神元和乾元資始兮，仰戴元功。 坤厚載物兮，率履攸同。 亭毒萬匯兮，昭明有融。 陰肅陽舒兮，協氣流通。 晝夜遞禪兮，二曜在中。 群靈畢萃兮，陟降景從。 大德普存兮，化著清寧。 臣思報本兮，蠲潔粢盛。 延佇雲駕兮，屏息臣躬。 馨香祗薦兮，爰殫微誠。 瞻望歆格兮，瑞色曈曨。 至止壇遣兮，式慰欽崇。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Yuanhe): Primordial Heaven begins all—we look up bearing the primordial merit. Earth deep and thick bears all things; all follow the same path. Nurturing the myriad forms—bright clarity harmoniously blended. Yin stern, yang relaxed—harmonizing qi flows through. Day and night in succession—sun and moon at center. All spirits gathered—ascending and descending, they follow the light. Great virtue everywhere preserved—transformation manifest in pure tranquillity. Your servant thinks to repay the root with purified grain offerings. Lingering for the cloud carriage, your servant holds breath and stills his body. Fragrant incense reverently offered—thus I exhaust my slight sincerity. Gazing in hope for acceptance—auspicious colors dawn. Having reached and halted at the altar, thus to comfort reverent esteem.
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奠玉帛景和俯仰覆載兮，殿萬邦。 展儀備物兮，舉舊章。 良璧在陳兮，介豆觴。 束帛戔戔兮，忱可將。 對越冥漠兮，念徬徨。 臣虔齊明兮，效趨蹌。 降鑒無方兮，悅而康。 原錫嘉祉兮，慶未央。
Offering Jade and Silk (tune Jinghe): Looking up and down at what covers and bears all—sheltering the myriad states. Display the rites and prepare the offerings; raise the ancient ordinances. Fine bi jades displayed; vessels of bean and cup. Bundles of silk in abundance—sincerity can be presented. Facing the distant realm above, thoughts wandering in uncertainty. Your servant devout and pure, hastening forward in reverence. Descending to inspect without partiality—pleased and at peace. [Shunzhi:] Bestow blessing—joy without end.
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進俎肅和和風暢兮，神格思。 洽百靈兮，誠無移。 潔豆登兮，答洪慈。 膋芬達兮，雜菹施。 臣仰祈兮，福履綏。 房產芝兮，矞雲垂。 祝史列兮，敬陳詞。 形聲穆兮，鑒在茲。
Presenting the Sacrificial Trays (tune Suhe): Gentle wind fresh—the spirit arrives in thought. Harmonizing the hundred spirits—sincerity unwavering. Pure beans raised, answering great kindness. Burnt offering fragrance reaches; mixed preserved vegetables presented. Your servant looks up in prayer—for blessings and safe steps. A ganoderma sprouts in the chamber; auspicious clouds descend. Prayer officials arrayed, reverently presenting the words. Form and sound solemn—inspection is here.
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初獻壽和威光畢煜，肅肅靈旗。 壺觴肇啟，用介神禧。 普洽和樂，罄無不宜。 鏗鍧迭奏，克葉塤篪。 駿奔翼翼，進反有儀。 臣薦清酤，眷佑弗違。
First Offering (tune Shouhe): Majestic light fully blazing—solemn spirit banners. The flask and cup are first opened, to convey divine blessing. Universally harmonious and joyous—nothing that is not fitting. Resounding gongs play in turn, well matching xun and chi. Swift running, wings outspread—advancing and retreating with proper rite. Your servant presents clear wine—favoring protection not forsaken.
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亞獻安和齋心夙夜，祈答碧虛。 洋洋在上，載酌清醑。 苾芬式享，秩秩于于。 干戚在舞，張弛靡逾。 彌歆元旨，臣藎方舒。 永言迓惠，戩穀錫餘。
Second Offering (tune Anhe): Pure heart day and night—praying to answer the azure void. Grandly above—again pouring clear sweet wine. Rich fragrance offered in feasting—orderly and serene. Shield and axe in the dance—expanding and contracting without excess. Increasingly savoring the primordial meaning—your servant's loyalty just unfolding. Forever to welcome grace—abundant grain bestowed in surplus.
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終獻永和餚核既旅，八音克諧。 罇罍未馨，慈惠靡涯。 肅將三祝，黃流在台。 菁茅既潔，祼獻徘徊。 原言醉止，庶展臣懷。 於皇錫祉，景福方來。
Final Offering (tune Yonghe): Delicacies and fruits arrayed—the eight sounds perfectly harmonized. The goblets and jars not yet fragrant enough—kindness and grace boundless. Solemnly performing three libations—golden libation on the platform. Thatch grass already purified—the libation offering lingering. [Shunzhi:] May the drinking reach its stop, that your servant's heart may unfold. Grandly bestowing blessing—splendid fortune just arriving.
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徹饌協和百福既洽兮，羞明神。 蘋藻可將兮，臣悃申。 雲軿欲駕兮，彌逡巡。 几筵敬徹兮，不敢陳。
Clearing the Feast (tune Xiehe): All blessings gathered—offering to the bright spirits. Water-shield and pondweed can be presented—your servant's sincerity declared. The cloud chariot about to drive—lingering ever more. Altar and mat reverently cleared—not daring to speak out.
88
送神泰和敬酬高厚兮，肅秩靈壇。 居歆幸孚兮，進止克嫺。 群神偕從兮，馭鶴驂鸞。 清風穆穆兮，旌旆生寒。 遙開閶闔兮，雲路漫漫。 六龍前駕兮，劍佩珊珊。 百辟相事兮，卿士戒班。 臣心益虔兮，<立寧>立盤桓。 式禮莫愆兮，餘忱未殫。 惠及黎庶兮，四宇騰歡。 萬物咸若兮，遐邇乂安。 綿綿衍慶兮，永奠如磐。
Sending off the Spirit (tune Taihe): Reverently repaying the high and deep—solemn order at the spirit altar. Dwelling in acceptance, blessed in trust—advancing and halting perfectly graceful. All spirits together follow—driving cranes, paired with phoenixes. Clear wind solemn and stately—banners and flags stir a chill. Far off the gates of heaven open—the cloud road stretches endless. Six dragons drive ahead—sword and pendants jingle softly. The hundred ministers attend in service—dignitaries take their ranks. Your servant's heart grows ever more devout—[Shunzhi: lining] standing, lingering still. The rites are without fault—yet devotion is not yet exhausted. Grace reaches the common people—the four quarters surge with joy. All things are at peace—near and far governed and secure. Blessing extends without end—forever established firm as a rock.
89
望燎、望瘞清和祥光杳靄兮，滿雲端。 霓旌揚兮，言還。 虔蕭焫兮，祈上達； 百執旅進兮，環列紫垣。 臣仰止兮，彌切； 束躬翹首兮，望元關。 天休滋至兮，欽承罔斁； 知神永覆兮，濊澤寬。
Burning Offerings at the Watch Fire and Burial (tune Qinghe): Clear, harmonious auspicious light, dim and hazy, fills the cloud heights. Rainbow banners are raised—it is time to return. Reverently burning artemisia, praying it reach on high; The hundred attendants advance, arrayed around the purple wall. Your servant looks up and stops—ever more earnest; Binding the body and raising the head, gazing toward the primal gate. Heaven's favor ever increases—reverently received without satiety; Knowing the spirit eternally covers—favor and grace wide.
90
太廟時饗六章順治元年定，乾隆七年以舊詞重改。 初制載句中。 奉先殿同。 中和韶樂，太簇商立宮，倍無射變宮主調。
The six hymn-cycles for seasonal feasting at the Imperial Ancestral Temple were fixed in Shunzhi 1 (1644); in Qianlong 7 (1742) they were reworked again from the earlier texts. The original Shunzhi wording is noted line by line within the text. The same as at the Hall of Imperial Forebears. The Zhonghe ceremonial music uses the Taicu shang pitch to establish the mode, with beiwuzi bian gong as the principal tonality.
91
迎神貽平原開平。 肇茲區夏，世德欽崇。 九州維宅，王業自東。 戎甲十三，奮起飛龍。 維神格思，皇靈顯庸。 原皇輿啟圖，世德欽崇。 粵庇眇躬，率土攸同。 九州維宅，爰止自東，太室既尊，萬國朝宗。 翼翼孝孫，對越肅雝。 維神格思，皇靈顯庸。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Yiping); [Shunzhi:] Kaiping. Here our domain began—generations of virtue revered and honored. The Nine Provinces are our dwelling—royal enterprise from the east. Thirteen suits of armor—rising up like the flying dragon. Only the spirit arrives in thought—the imperial numen manifest in service. [Shunzhi:] The imperial carriage opens the design—generations of virtue revered and honored. Thus sheltering my slight person—all within the realm alike. The Nine Provinces are our dwelling—here we stopped from the east; the Grand Chamber is honored, and the myriad states pay court. Diligent, diligent filial grandson—facing Heaven solemn and harmonious. Only the spirit arrives in thought—the imperial numen manifest in service.
92
奠帛、初獻敉平原壽平於皇祖考，克配上天。 越文武功，萬邦原四方。 是宣。 孝孫受命，不忘不愆。 原達志承前。 羹牆永慕，時薦斯虔。 原永錫純嘏，億萬斯年。
Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Miping; [Shunzhi:] Shouping): To the imperial forefather, fit to match High Heaven. Surpassing in culture and martial achievement—the myriad states, [Shunzhi:] the four quarters. Proclaim it. The filial grandson received the mandate—never forgetting, never erring. [Shunzhi:] Fulfilling the aim, carrying on the past. Longing at the soup wall—seasonal offering with this devotion. [Shunzhi:] Forever bestowing pure blessing—ten thousand myriad years.
93
亞獻敷平原嘉平。 毖祀精忱，原神。 洋洋如生。 尊罍再舉，於赫昭明。 原有融昭明，陟降於庭。 僾然有容。 愾然有聲。 我懷靡及，原孝孫虔只。 惕原容。 若中情。
Second Offering (tune Fuping); [Shunzhi:] Jiaping. Pure sacrifice, earnest devotion—[Shunzhi:] the spirit. Abundant—as if alive. Noble jars are raised again—splendid and bright. [Shunzhi:] Harmoniously bright and luminous—ascending and descending in the court. Seemingly present in mien. Suddenly present in sound. My heart cannot reach—[Shunzhi:] the filial grandson devout indeed. Vigilant, [Shunzhi:] in mien. As if reading the inner heart.
94
終獻紹平原雍平。 粵若祖德，誕受方國。 肆予小子，大猷是式。 原越祖宗之德，肇茲天曆。 敢曰予小子，享有成績。 欲報之德，昊天罔極。 殷勤三獻，中心翼翼。 原我心悅懌。
Final Offering (tune Shaoping); [Shunzhi:] Yongping. Thus like ancestral virtue—receiving the regional states. I, the young one, take the great plan as my model. [Shunzhi:] Surpassing the virtue of the ancestors—here beginning the heavenly calendar. Dare I say that I, the young one, enjoy accomplished merit? Wishing to repay that virtue—vast Heaven has no limit. Earnestly performing three offerings—the heart cautious and careful. [Shunzhi:] My heart is pleased and delighted.
95
徹饌光平原熙平。 庶物既陳，九奏具舉。 原儀肅樂成，神燕以娭。 告成於祖，亦右皇妣。 敬徹不遲，用終殷祀。 原用終祀禮。 式禮如茲，皇其燕喜。 原介福綏祿，永錫祚祉。
Removing the Offerings (tune Guangping); [Shunzhi:] Xiping. The myriad offerings are set forth—the nine performances all raised. [Shunzhi:] Rites solemn, music complete—the spirit feasts in delight. Reporting completion to the ancestor—also honoring the imperial consort. Reverently clearing without delay—thereby concluding the abundant sacrifice. [Shunzhi:] Thereby concluding the sacrificial rite. Such rites as these—may the sovereign feast in gladness. [Shunzhi:] Boundless blessing and sustained emolument—forever bestowing throne and blessing.
96
還宮乂平原成平。 對越無方，陟降無跡。 原盈溢肅雝，神運無跡。 寢祏靜淵，孔安且吉。 原恍兮安適。 惟靈在天，惟主在室。 於萬斯年，孝思無斁。
Returning to the Palace (tune Yiping); [Shunzhi:] Chengping. Facing Heaven without limit—ascending and descending without trace. [Shunzhi:] Overflowing solemn harmony—the spirit's movement without trace. The spirit tablet chamber is quiet and deep—greatly secure and auspicious. [Shunzhi:] Vague—where to rest? The numen is in Heaven; the lord is in the chamber. For ten thousand myriad years—filial thought without satiety.
97
太廟大祫六章順治十六年定，乾隆七年以舊辭重改。 初制載句中。 中和韶樂，太簇商立宮，倍無射變宮主調。
The six hymn-cycles for the Great Ancestral Temple union sacrifice were fixed in Shunzhi 16 (1659); in Qianlong 7 (1742) they were reworked again from the earlier texts. The original Shunzhi wording is noted line by line within the text. The Zhonghe ceremonial music uses the Taicu shang pitch to establish the mode, with beiwuzi bian gong as the principal tonality.
98
迎神開平原貞平。 承眷命兮，撫萬邦。 嗣丕基兮，祖德昌。 溯謨烈兮，唐哉皇。 原弗敢忘。 虔歲祀兮，式原舉。 舊章。 肅對越兮，誠悃將。 原瀝悃誠兮，迓休光。 尚來格兮，仰休光。 原祈來格兮，意徬徨。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Kaiping); [Shunzhi:] Zhenping. Receiving the gracious mandate—governing the myriad states. Succeeding to the great foundation—ancestral virtue flourishing. Tracing counsels and achievements—glorious indeed, the sovereign. [Shunzhi:] I dare not forget. Devout yearly sacrifice—in accord [Shunzhi:] raise, the old regulations. Solemnly facing Heaven—sincere devotion about to be offered. [Shunzhi:] Pouring out sincere devotion—welcoming auspicious radiance. Still come and arrive—looking up to auspicious radiance. [Shunzhi:] Praying you come and arrive—mind wandering in hesitation.
99
奠帛、初獻肅平原壽平。 粵我先兮，肇俄朵。 長白山兮，鵲銜果。 綿瓜瓞兮，天所佐。 明之侵兮，殲其左。 混中外兮，逮乎我。 奉太室兮，安以妥。 原紛威蕤兮，神畢臨。 儼對越兮，抒素忱。 陳纖縞兮，有壬林。 酌醇酤兮，薦德馨。 恪溥將兮，俶來歆。 錫嘉祉兮，祐斯民。
Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Suping); [Shunzhi:] Shouping. Thus our forebear—here beginning the E'duo clan. Changbai Mountain—magpies carrying fruit. Melons and gourds spreading—Heaven assists. Ming invaded—destroying their left wing. Mingling inner and outer—reaching down to us. Serving the Grand Chamber—settled in peace. [Shunzhi:] Abundant majesty and splendor—all spirits fully present. Solemnly facing Heaven—expressing pure devotion. Setting forth fine silks—there is the forest of ren. Pouring rich liquor—offering virtue fragrant. Reverently assisting the offering—beginning to come and savor. Bestowing auspicious blessing—protecting this people.
100
亞獻協平原嘉平。 紛葳蕤兮，列聖臨。 儼對越兮，心欽欽。 陳纖縞兮，有壬林。 擊浮兮，彈硃琴。 恪溥將兮，肅來歆。 錫嘉祉兮，天地心。 原維肇祥兮，德配天。 垂燕翼兮，祚百年。 潔豆籩兮，秩斯筵。 載陳醴兮，介牲牷。 協笙鏞兮，繞雲軿。 肅駿奔兮，中彌虔。
Second Offering (tune Xieping); [Shunzhi:] Jiaping. Abundant splendor—the line of sages present. Solemnly facing Heaven—heart reverent, reverent. Setting forth fine silks—there is the forest of ren. Striking the float—playing the vermilion zither. Reverently assisting the offering—solemnly come and savor. Bestow auspicious blessing—Heaven and Earth's heart. [Shunzhi:] Only the beginning of blessing—virtue matching Heaven. Extend the swallow's wings—throne for a hundred years. Pure beans and baskets—order this feast. Bearing rich ale—pure sacrificial beast. Flutes and bells in harmony—circling the cloud-chariot. Solemnly rushing—heart ever more devout.
101
終獻裕平原雍平。 椒飶芬兮，神留俞。 爵三獻兮，旨清醑。 萬羽干兮，樂孔都。 禮明備兮，罔敢渝。 神原既。 醉止兮，咸樂胥。 永啟佑兮，披皇圖。
Final Offering (tune Yuping); [Shunzhi:] Yongping. Pepper fragrance rich—the spirit lingering in contentment. Three libations—excellent clear wine. Myriad feathered staffs—music greatly refined. Rites clearly complete—none dare alter. The spirit—[Shunzhi:] already. Well intoxicated and satisfied—all rejoice together. Ever open protection—unfold the imperial design.
102
徹饌諴平原熙平。 祝幣陳兮，神燕娭。 原典儀敘兮，神格思。 尊俎將兮，反威儀。 原享靡遺。 悅且康兮，徹弗遲。 不可度兮，矧射思。 禮有成兮，釐百宜。 原無此二句。 鑒精誠原禋。 兮，茀祿綏。
Removing the Offerings (tune Xianping); [Shunzhi:] Xiping. Prayer silks displayed—the spirit feasting at ease. [Shunzhi:] Classic rites arrayed—the spirit arrives in thought. Goblets and trays about to be borne—reverting to solemn bearing. [Shunzhi:] Feasting without omission. Joyful and at peace—clearing without delay. Beyond measure—how much less could one fathom the intent. Rites accomplished—ordering myriad proprieties. [Shunzhi:] These two lines are absent. Discerning sincerity and devotion—[Shunzhi:] the sacrificial rite. Ah,—sustained blessing and emolument.
103
還宮成平原清平。 龍之馭兮，旋穆清。 原孝思展兮，禮告成。 神言歸兮，陟在庭。 萃龍馭兮，返穆清。 三句。 神之御兮，式丹楹。 原主肅將兮，式丹楹。 瞻列聖兮，僾容聲。 回靈眄兮，佑丕承。 維神聽兮，和且平。 繼序皇兮，亶休徵。
Returning to the Palace (tune Chengping); [Shunzhi:] Qingping. Dragon carriage—turning to solemn purity. [Shunzhi:] Filial longing fulfilled—rites announced complete. Spirit saying farewell—ascending within the courtyard. Gathering the dragon's carriage—returning to solemn purity. (Three lines.) Spirit's carriage—model of cinnabar pillars. [Shunzhi:] Lord solemnly presenting—model of cinnabar pillars. Gazing on the ranks of sages—intimate bearing and voice. Spirit turning its gaze—protecting great succession. Only the spirit listens—harmony and peace. Continuing the imperial sequence—truly auspicious omens.
104
祭先農七章順治十一年定，乾隆七年以舊詞重改。 初制載句中。 中和韶樂，姑洗角立宮，黃鍾宮主調。
The seven hymn-cycles for sacrifice to the First Farmer were fixed in Shunzhi 11 (1654); in Qianlong 7 (1742) they were reworked again from the earlier texts. The original Shunzhi wording is noted line by line within the text. The Zhonghe ceremonial music uses the Guxian jue pitch to establish the mode, with Huangzhong gong as the principal tonality.
105
迎神永豐先農播穀，克配彼天。 粒我蒸民，於萬斯年。 農祥晨正，協風滿壇。 曰予小子，宜稼于田。 原句芒秉令，土牛是驅。 天下一人，蒼龍駕車。 念彼田疇，民命所需。 生成有德，尚式臨諸。 齋奠帛、初獻時豐厥初生民，萬匯莫辨。 神錫之庥，嘉種乃誕。 斯德曷酬，何名可贊。 我酒惟旨，是用初獻。 原先農神哉，耒耜教民。 田祖靈哉，稼穡是親。 功德深厚，天地同仁。 肅將幣帛，肇舉明禋。 厥初生民，萬匯莫辨。 神錫之庥，嘉種乃誕。 執茲醴齊，農功益見。 玉瓚椒醑，肅雍舉奠。 齋亞獻成豐無物稱德，惟誠有孚。 載升玉瓚，神肯留虞。 惟茲兆庶，豈異古初。 神曾子之，今其食諸。 原上原下隰，百穀盈止。 粒我蒸民，秀良興起。 樂舞具備，吹豳稱兕。 再躋以獻，餚馨酒旨。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Yongfeng): The First Farmer sows grain, matching Heaven above. Nourishing our common people—for ten thousand years. Agricultural auspices at dawn's proper hour—harmonizing winds fill the altar. Thus I, the young one, should sow in the fields. [Shunzhi:] Goumang holds the command—the clay ox is driven forth. One man under Heaven—the azure dragon drives the carriage. Thinking on those fields—what the people's lives require. Life-giving virtue—may You still look down upon us. Fasting · Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Shifeng): At first there was mankind, myriad forms undistinguished. The spirit bestowed its blessing—fine seed was then born. How could such virtue be repaid—what name could praise it? Our wine is excellent—therefore the first offering. [Shunzhi:] O First Farmer, spirit indeed—plow and hoe taught the people. Field ancestor, numen indeed—tilling and reaping are close at hand. Merit and virtue deep and thick—Heaven and Earth alike humane. Solemnly bearing silks and cloth—beginning the bright sacrificial rite. At first there was mankind—myriad forms undistinguished. The spirit bestowed its blessing—fine seed was then born. Holding this clear ale—agricultural labor ever more manifest. Jade libation cup and peppered wine—solemnly and harmoniously raised in offering. Fasting · Second Offering (tune Chengfeng): No thing can match virtue—only sincerity has trust. Raising the jade libation cup—the spirit deigns to linger in joy. Only these myriad people—how different from antiquity's beginning. The spirit once bestowed this—now let it partake thereof. [Shunzhi:] On uplands, in lowlands—a hundred grains full and stopping. Nourishing our common people—the excellent and good rise up. Music and dance complete—playing Bin and sounding the rhinoceros horn. Ascending again to offer—viands fragrant, wine excellent.
106
終獻大豐秬秠穈芑，皆神所貽。 以之饗神，式食庶幾。 神其丕佑，佑我黔黎。 萬方大有，肇此三推。 原穈芑秬秠，維神所貽。 以神饗神，曰予將之。 秉耒三推，東作允宜。 五風十雨，率土何私。
Final Offering (tune Dafeng): Black millet and broomcorn millet—all gifts from the spirit. With these to feast the spirit—may it eat and be satisfied. May the spirit greatly protect—protect our common people. Great abundance in all directions—here beginning the three furrows. [Shunzhi:] Broomcorn millet and black millet—only gifts from the spirit. With the spirit feasting the spirit—thus I shall present it. Holding the plow for three furrows—eastern labors duly fitting. Five winds and ten rains—all the land without partiality.
107
徹饌屢豐青祇司職，土膏脈起。 日涓吉亥，舉耕耤禮。 神安留俞，不我遐棄。 執事告徹，予將舉趾。 原於皇農事，自古為烈。 莫敢不承，今茲忻悅。 籩豆既豐，簠簋雲潔。 神視井疆，執事告徹。
Removing the Offerings (tune Lüfeng): The Green Spirit holds office—soil's richness surges. On the auspicious day of the jihai hour—performing the plowing rite. Spirit settling in lingering contentment—not casting me far off and abandoning me. The attendants announce clearing—I shall lift my foot to go. [Shunzhi:] O august farming work—since antiquity a blazing merit. None dare not receive it—now in this joy and delight. Baskets and stands already abundant—grain vessels pure as clouds. Spirit overseeing the field boundaries—attendants announce clearing.
108
送神報豐匪且有且，匪今斯今。 靈雨崇朝，田家萬金。 考鍾伐鼓，戛瑟鳴琴。 神歸何所，大地秧針。 原麻麥芃芃，粳稻連阡。 縱橫萬里，皆神所瞻。 人歌鼓腹，史載有年。 歲有常典，茀祿綿延。 齋望瘞慶豐肅肅靈壇，昭昭上天。 神下神歸，其風肅然。 玉版蒼幣，瘞埋告虔。 神之聽之，錫大有年。 原玉版蒼幣，來鑒來歆。 敬之重之，藏於厚深。 典禮由古，予行自今。 樂樂利利，國以永寧。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Baofeng): Not only yesterday and today—not only now and then. Spirit rain all morning—farming households worth ten thousand gold. Striking bells and beating drums—plucking se and sounding zither. Where does the spirit return—the great earth's rice shoots like needles. [Shunzhi:] Hemp and wheat lush and thick—rice paddies linking field paths. Stretching ten thousand li in every direction—all gazed upon by the spirit. People sing with full bellies—histories record abundant years. Each year has its fixed rite—sustained blessing extending on. Fasting · Burning at the Burial Mound (tune Qingfeng): Solemn the spirit altar—bright Heaven above. Spirit descending, spirit returning—its wind solemn and still. Jade tablets and azure silks—buried with reverent announcement. Spirit, hear this—bestow a great abundant year. [Shunzhi:] Jade tablets and azure silks—come to witness, come to accept. Revered and honored—stored in depth and thickness. Rites from antiquity—my practice from today. Joy upon joy, benefit upon benefit—the state thereby enjoys lasting peace.
109
祭先蠶六章乾隆七年定。 仲呂清角立宮，大呂清宮主調。 先蠶壇樂，以雲鑼代鍾，方響代磬，與中和韶樂微異。 樂章正義後編列入先農壇之次，從之。
The six hymn-cycles for sacrifice to the First Silkworm were fixed in Qianlong 7 (1742). The Zhonglü qing jue pitch establishes the mode, with Dalü qing gong as the principal tonality. The First Silkworm Altar music substitutes cloud gongs for bells and fangxiang for stone chimes—slightly different from the Zhonghe ceremonial music. The later edition of Yuezhang Zhengyi places it immediately after the First Farmer Altar section; this arrangement was adopted.
110
迎神庥平軒轅御籙時，西陵位正妃。 柔桑沃，載陽遲。 黼黻玄黃供祀事，稱繭更繰絲。 龍精報貺，椒屋宗師。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Xiuping): When Xuanyuan received the mandate, Xiling was chief consort. Tender mulberry lush and rich—the returning sun comes slowly. Brocaded black and yellow for sacrificial service—weighing cocoons and reeling silk. Dragon essence reports the gift—the pepper-house founding teacher.
111
初獻承平春堤柳綻金，倉庚有好音。 衣褘翟，致精忱。 後月躬應教織紝。 柘館式齋心。 黃流初薦，肸蠁如臨。
First offering (tune Chengping): Golden willows bloom on spring embankments; orioles have lovely song. Wearing hui and di ceremonial robes—offering utmost sincerity. In the following month she personally follows the teaching to weave. At the mulberry lodge, ritually purifying the heart. Yellow libation first offered—fragrance spreads as if the spirit were present.
112
亞獻均平清和日正長，靈壇水一方。 紆香陌，執籧筐。 桑葉陰濃風澹蕩，八育普嘉祥。 玉鬯再陳，降福穰穰。
Second offering (tune Junping): Clear and harmonious day at full length; spirit altar water on one side. Winding along fragrant paths—holding bamboo baskets. Mulberry leaves shade dense, wind gently swaying—nurturing all with universal auspiciousness. Jade libation again set forth—blessings descend abundantly.
113
終獻齊平神皋接上園，葭蘆翠浪翻。 鶯聲滑，藕花繁。 天棘絲絲初引蔓，三薦潔蘋蘩。 雲依寶鼎，露浥旌幡。
Final offering (tune Qiping): Sacred mound connects to upper gardens; reeds and rushes roll in green waves. Oriole songs sweet and smooth—lotus flowers abundant. Heavenly creepers' threads first trailing vines—thrice offered pure water-herbs. Clouds cling to the precious cauldron—dew moistens the banners.
114
徹饌柔平公宮吉禮成，有齋奉豆登。 僮僮被，肅肅升。 廢徹毋遲咸祗敬，法坎不常盈。 萬方衣被，百福其朋。
Removing the offerings (tune Rouping): Palace auspicious rite complete; with fasting, beans are offered and ascended. Lush covering—solemnly ascending. Clearing without delay, all reverent—following the vessel that is not always kept full. All regions clothed and covered—a hundred blessings unite.
115
送神洽平神風拂廣筵，靈香下肅然。 儀不忒，禮無愆。 禺馬流星相焫絢，玉蝀亙平川。 彤管司職，瑞繭登編。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Qiaping): Spirit wind sweeps the broad feast; sacred incense descends solemnly. The rites without error—the ceremony without fault. Torch horses like shooting stars blaze brilliant—a rainbow spans the plain. Red pipes oversee duties—auspicious cocoons entered in the register.
116
祭歷代帝王廟六章順治二年定，乾隆七年以舊詞重改。 初制載句中。 中和韶樂，春夾鍾清商立宮，倍應鍾清變徵主調。 秋南呂清徵立宮，仲呂清角主調。
The six hymn-cycles for the Temple of Successive Emperors were fixed in Shunzhi 2 (1645); in Qianlong 7 (1742) they were reworked again from the earlier texts. The original Shunzhi wording is noted line by line within the text. The Zhonghe ceremonial music: in spring the Jiazhong qing shang pitch establishes the mode, with doubled Yingzhong qing bian zhi as the principal tonality. In autumn the Nanlü qing zhi pitch establishes the mode, with Zhonglü qing jue as the principal tonality.
117
迎神肇平原雍平。 撫原乘。 時兮，極隆。 造經綸兮，顯庸。 總古今兮，一揆； 貽大寶兮，微躬。 仰徽猷兮，有嚴閟宮。 原有儀群帝兮，後先。 一句。 予稽首兮，下風。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Zhaoping); [Shunzhi:] Yongping. Comforting; [Shunzhi:] mounting the chariot. The time—most glorious. Creating governance—manifest merit. Summing past and present in one standard; Bequeathing the great treasure—my humble person. Looking up to fine counsels—august closed palace. [Shunzhi:] With ordered protocol, all emperors—before and after. (One line.) I bow my head—beneath the wind.
118
奠帛、初獻興平原安平。 莽若雲兮，神之行。 原靈之來兮，儼若盈。 予仰止兮，在廷。 承筐篚兮，既登。 偃靈蓋兮，翠旌。 原結翠旌。 鑒予情兮，歆享。 薦芳馨兮，肅成。 原有景行兮，六龍。 嘉氣兮，曈曨。 奠牜羲尊兮，以笙以鏞。 群工肅兮，屏營。 惠我懿則兮，允中。 五句。
Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Xingping); [Shunzhi:] Anping. Vast as clouds—the spirit's coming. [Shunzhi:] The spirit comes—seems to fill all. I look up—in the court. Bearing baskets and hampers—already ascended. Lowering the spirit canopy—azure banners. [Shunzhi:] Tying the azure banners. Witness my sincerity—accept and enjoy. Offering fragrant aroma—solemnly complete. [Shunzhi:] There is a bright course—six dragons. Auspicious qi—rosy dawn light. Setting forth the sacrificial Xi libation vessel—with sheng pipes and with yong bells. All officers solemn—holding breath in reverence. Show me excellent norms—truly centered. (Five lines.)
119
亞獻崇平原中平。 貳觴兮，酒行。 原有諸帝熙和兮，悅成。 一句。 念昔致治兮，永清。 瞻龍袞兮，若英。 原自天。 原紹錫兮，嘉平。
Second offering (tune Chongping); [Shunzhi:] Zhongping. Second libation—wine proceeds. [Shunzhi:] All emperors harmonious and mild—joy complete. (One line.) Remembering past good governance—enduring clarity. Gazing on dragon robes—like brilliance. [Shunzhi:] From Heaven. [Shunzhi:] Continuing the bestowal—Jiaping.
120
終獻恬平原肅平。 郁鬯原瑤爵。 兮，獻終。 萬舞洋洋兮，沐清風。 龍鸞徐整兮，企予。 原有嗣徽音兮，何從。 盼雲車兮，緩移。 二句。 示周行兮，迪予衷。
Final offering (tune Tianping); [Shunzhi:] Suping. Fragrant wine; [Shunzhi:] jade goblet. ; offering complete. Myriad dancers vast—bathed in clear wind. Dragon banners and phoenix pennants slowly arrayed—gazing at me. [Shunzhi:] There are successors to fine repute—how to follow. Watching the cloud carriage—slowly moving. (Two lines.) Showing the proper path—guiding my heart.
121
徹饌淳平原凝平。 饁餚蒸兮，畢升。 五音會兮，滿盈。 禮將徹兮，虔告。 鑒孔忱兮，載翼載登。
Removing the offerings (tune Chunping); [Shunzhi:] Ningping. Offerings and steamed delicacies—all ascended. Five tones unite—full and overflowing. Rites about to clear—reverently announcing. Witness sincere devotion—assisting ascent.
122
送神匡平原壽平。 羽原幡。 幢繚繞兮，動迴風。 和鸞並馭兮，歸天宮。 五雲擁兮，高馳翔。 原回靈眄兮，錫年豐。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Kuangping); [Shunzhi:] Shouping. Feathers; [Shunzhi:] banners. Pennants winding—stirring the whirling wind. Harmonious bells yoked together—returning to the heavenly palace. Five-colored clouds embrace—soaring high in flight. [Shunzhi:] Spirit glances back—bestowing abundant years.
123
望燎同駕群龍原群龍驂駕。 兮，一氣中。 熏蒿芬烈兮，窅冥通。 望神光兮，遙燭； 惟終古兮，是崇。
Burning Offerings at the Watch Fire · same · Driving myriad dragons; [Shunzhi:] myriad dragons as outriders. ; in one breath of qi. Burning mugwort fragrant and fierce—reaching the deep darkness. Gazing at divine light—far shining; Forever ancient—this is veneration.
124
先師廟六章順治元年定，乾隆七年以舊詞重改。 初制載句中。 中和韶樂，春夾鍾清商立宮，倍應鍾清變宮主調。 古迎神昭平原咸平。 大哉至聖，德盛道隆。 原峻德宏功。 生民未有，原敷文衍化。 百王是崇。 典則昭垂，原典則有常。 式原昭。 茲辟雍。 載原有。 虔簠簋，載原有。 嚴鼓鍾。
The six hymn-cycles for the Temple of the First Teacher were fixed in Shunzhi 1 (1644); in Qianlong 7 (1742) they were reworked again from the earlier texts. The original Shunzhi wording is noted line by line within the text. The Zhonghe ceremonial music: in spring the Jiazhong qing shang pitch establishes the mode, with doubled Yingzhong qing bian gong as the principal tonality. Original Welcoming the Spirit (tune Zhaoping); [Shunzhi:] Xianping. Great indeed the supreme Sage—virtue abundant, the Way exalted. [Shunzhi:] Lofty virtue, grand achievement. Before the people existed—[Shunzhi:] spreading culture and extending transformation. A hundred kings revere Him. Canons and norms shine forth—[Shunzhi:] canons and norms are constant. The rite; [Shunzhi:] manifest. Here at the Piyong. Already set forth—[Shunzhi:] existing. Reverently the fu and gui vessels—already set forth; [Shunzhi:] existing. Solemn drums and bells.
125
奠帛、初獻宣平原寧平。 覺我生民，陶鑄賢原前。 聖。 巍巍泰山，實予景行。 禮備樂和，豆籩嘉原惟。 靜。 既述六經，爰斟三正。
Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Xuanping); [Shunzhi:] Ningping. Awakening my people, molding the worthy—[Shunzhi:] former. Sages. Lofty Mount Tai—truly my model to follow. Rites complete, music harmonious—the dou and bian vessels fine; [Shunzhi:] only. Tranquil. Having expounded the Six Classics, now adjusting the Three Calendrical Systems.
126
亞獻秩平原安平。 至哉聖師，克明明德。 原天授明德。 木鐸萬年，原世。 維民之則。 原式是群辟。 清酒既原維。 醑，言觀秉翟。 太和常流，英材斯植。
Second offering (tune Zhiping); [Shunzhi:] Anping. Supreme is the Sage Master—able to illumine bright virtue. [Shunzhi:] Heaven-bestowed bright virtue. Wooden clapper for ten thousand years—[Shunzhi:] generations. Standard for the people. [Shunzhi:] Thus are all the lords. Clear wine already—[Shunzhi:] only. Spiced wine—speaking of watching those bearing feather-dance wands. Grand harmony ever flows—outstanding talent thus nurtured.
127
終獻敘平原景平。 猗歟素王，示予物軌。 瞻之在前，師表萬祀。 原神其寧止。 酌彼金罍。 我酒惟旨。 原惟清且旨。 登獻雖原既。 終，弗遐有喜。
Final offering (tune Xuping); [Shunzhi:] Jingping. Ah, the Uncrowned King—showing me the norms of things. Looking to Him who is before me—teacher and model for myriad ages. [Shunzhi:] May the spirit dwell in peace. Draw from that golden lei vessel. Our wine is only fine. [Shunzhi:] Only pure and fine. Ascending the offering, although—[Shunzhi:] already. Complete—not far—there is joy.
128
徹饌懿平原成平。 璧水淵淵，芹芳藻潔。 原崇牙岌嶪。 既歆宣聖，亦儀十哲。 聲金振玉，告茲將徹。 鬷假有成，日月昭揭。 原羹牆靡愒。
Removing the offerings (tune Yiping); [Shunzhi:] Chengping. The jade-ring moat deep and profound—water-cress fragrant, duckweed pure. [Shunzhi:] High teeth jutting steeply. Having received the Sage's proclamation, also honoring the Ten Wise Ones. Metal sounds and jade resound—announcing the offerings are about to clear. Already fully achieved—sun and moon brilliantly displayed. [Shunzhi:] Like broth on the wall—never weary.
129
送神德平原咸平。 煌煌辟雍，原學宮。 四方來宗。 甄陶樂育，原胄子。 多士景從。 原暨予微躬。 如土斯埴，原思皇多士。 如金在鎔。 原膚奏厥功。 佐予敷治，俗美時雍。 原佐予永清，三五是隆。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Deping); [Shunzhi:] Xianping. Splendid Piyong—[Shunzhi:] academy palace. From the four quarters they come to pay homage. Selecting and nurturing with joy—[Shunzhi:] scions. Many officers follow in their wake. [Shunzhi:] And my humble person. Like clay thus molded—[Shunzhi:] thinking of many worthy officers. Like metal in the smelting pot. [Shunzhi:] Broadly presenting their achievements. Assisting me in spreading governance—customs fine, the age harmonious. [Shunzhi:] Assisting me in lasting clarity—the Three Five emperors thus exalted.
130
直省先師廟六章乾隆七年重定。 中和韶樂，宮調同。
The six hymn-cycles for provincial Temples of the First Teacher were re-fixed in Qianlong 7 (1742). The Zhonghe ceremonial music uses the same mode.
131
迎神昭平大哉孔子，先覺先知。 與天地參，萬世之師。 祥徵麟紱，韻答金絲。 日月既揭，乾坤清夷。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Zhaoping): Great indeed is Confucius—first to awaken, first to know. Partnering Heaven and Earth—the Teacher of ten thousand generations. Auspicious sign: the unicorn's token—rhyming answers to golden strings. Sun and moon already risen—Heaven and Earth pure and tranquil.
132
奠帛、初獻宣平予懷明德，玉振金聲。 生民未有，展也大成。 俎豆千古，春秋上丁。 清酒既載，其香始升。
Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Xuanping): I cherish bright virtue—jade resounds, metal sounds. Before the people existed—how fully His great accomplishment unfolded. Sacrificial vessels for a thousand ages—spring and autumn, first ding day. Clear wine already set forth—its fragrance begins to rise.
133
亞獻秩平式禮莫愆，升堂再獻。 響協{卉鼓}鏞，誠孚罍甗。 肅肅雍雍，譽髦斯彥。 禮陶樂淑，相觀而善。
Second offering (tune Zhiping): The rites without error—ascending the hall for the second libation. Sounds harmonize with drums and yong bells—sincerity fills the lei vessels and cauldrons. Solemn and harmonious—praising the outstanding youths of talent. Rites shape, music refines—mutually observing what is good.
134
終獻敘平自古在昔，先民有作。 皮弁祭菜，於論思樂。 惟天牖民，惟聖時若。 彝倫攸敘，至今木鐸。
Final offering (tune Xuping): From antiquity in times past—the former people had their works. Leather caps for the vegetable offering—in discussion reflecting on joy. Only Heaven enlightens the people—only the Sage accords with the seasons. Constant norms thereby ordered—down to today the wooden clapper.
135
徹饌懿平先師有言，祭則受福。 四海黌宮，疇敢不肅。 禮成告徹，毋疏毋瀆。 樂所自生，中原有菽。
Removing the offerings (tune Yiping): The First Teacher had a saying—perform sacrifice and you receive blessing. Academy temples throughout the four seas—who would dare not be reverent? Rites complete, announcing the clearing—neither remiss nor irreverent. Where music was first born—[Shunzhi:] in the fields there are beans.
136
送神德平鳧繹峨峨，洙泗洋洋。 景行行止，流澤無疆。 聿昭祀事，祀事孔明。 化我蒸民，育我膠庠。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Deping): Fu River and Yi River lofty and grand—Zhu and Si rivers vast and flowing. A model path to follow—streaming favor without bound. Thus making the sacrificial affairs manifest—the sacrifices brilliantly accomplished. Transforming our common people—nurturing them in the state academies.
137
太歲壇六章順治元年定，乾隆七年以舊詞重改。 初制載句中。 中和韶樂，太簇商立宮，倍無射變宮主調。
The six hymn-cycles for the Temple of the Great Year Star were fixed in Shunzhi 1 (1644); in Qianlong 7 (1742) they were reworked again from the earlier texts. The original Shunzhi wording is noted line by line within the text. The Zhonghe ceremonial music: the Taicu shang pitch establishes the mode, with doubled Wushe bian gong as the principal tonality.
138
迎神保平協茲五紀，歲日月辰。 天維顯思，神職攸分。 於赫太歲，統馭百神。 承天之德，陰騭下民。 原吉日良辰，祀典孔殷。 於維太歲，月將百神。 乘時秉德，輔國祐民。 遙遙龍馭，頓轡九閽。 壇壝蠲潔，延佇來臨。 齋奠帛、初獻定平原安平。 禮崇明祀，涓選休成。 潔齋滌志，量幣告成。 祈福維何，福我蒼生。 陳饋奉酎，瞻仰雲旌。 原維神至止，螭駕雲旗。 洋洋在上，淑景延禧。 束帛承筐，展我誠斯。 神示昭鑒，尚其無遺。 神兮弭節，薦馨敢後。 祀事方初，陳饋奉酎。 神光熹微，嘉祥承候。 百禮不愆，樂具入奏。 齋亞獻嘏平原中平。 百末蘭生，有飶其香。 升歌清越，磬管鏘鏘。 牲牷肥腯，嘉薦令芳。 神其歆止，在上洋洋。 原以我齊明，率禮攸行。 再拜稽首，旨酒斯盈。 牲牷肥腯，交彼神明。 尊罍上下，鬷假思成。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Baoping): Harmonizing these five reckonings—year, season, month, day, and hour. Heaven is bright to contemplate—divine offices thereby apportioned. Majestic is the Great Year Star—commanding all the spirits. Receiving Heaven's virtue—silently blessing the people below. [Shunzhi:] Auspicious day and fine hour—the sacrificial canon is solemnly full. Ah, the Great Year Star—the Commander of a Month among the hundred spirits. Seizing the season and upholding virtue—assisting the state and blessing the people. Far away the dragon carriage—reining in at the nine gates. Altar mound purified and clean—we await in lingering hope for His coming. After Fasting · Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Dingping); [Shunzhi:] Anping. Rites exalt the bright sacrifice—carefully selected, auspiciously complete. Pure fasting cleanses the mind—measuring silks, the declaration complete. What do we pray for in seeking blessing? Bless our blue-clad people. Setting forth offerings and presenting libation—gazing up at cloud banners. [Shunzhi:] Ah, the spirit has arrived—dragon carriage with cloud pennants. Vast and overflowing above—fair season extending blessings. Bundled silks filling the basket—displaying this sincerity of mine. The spirit shows clear discernment—may there be nothing left out. O spirit—halt your reins; offering fragrance—how dare I lag behind? Sacrificial affairs just beginning—setting forth offerings and presenting libation. Divine light faintly gleaming—auspicious omens received in waiting. A hundred rites without error—music fully enters in performance. After fasting · Second Offering (tune Guping); [Shunzhi:] Zhongping. Many herbs and orchids grow—rich is their fragrance. Ascending song, clear and penetrating—stone chimes and pipes ring bright. Sacrificial oxen fat and well-grown—fine offerings, sweet fragrance. May the spirit delight and rest—above, vast and overflowing. [Shunzhi:] With my purified mind, I lead the rites in their proper conduct. Twice bowing, forehead to the ground—excellent wine brims full. Sacrificial oxen fat and well-grown—offered to those bright spirits. Goblets and jars above and below—all fully achieved, the rite complete.
139
終獻富平原肅平。 執事有嚴，再拜稽首。 三爵既升，以妥以侑。 盥薦有孚，肅茲籩豆。 神其歆止，人民曼壽。 原執事有嚴，品物斯備。 非馨黍稷，用宣誠意。 硃弦登歌，絲衣揚觶。 於胥樂兮，神錫爾類。
Final Offering (tune Fuping); [Shunzhi:] Suping. The officiants are solemn—twice bowing, forehead to the ground. Three libations already raised—to settle the spirit and assist Him. Washing hands, offering with trust—solemn are these trays and stands. May the spirit delight and rest—the people enjoy long life. [Shunzhi:] The officiants are solemn; every kind of offering is prepared. Not for fragrance of millet and grain—but to declare sincere intent. Vermillion strings for ascending song—silk-robed dancers raise the goblet. How joyous we are—the spirit grants blessing to your kind.
140
徹饌盈平原雍平。 王省維歲，有報有祈。 六氣無易，平衡正璣。 嘉生蕃祉，澤及蜎飛。 百禮以洽，承神吉輝。 原春祈秋報，歲省惟勤。 含醇飲德，莫匪明神。 惟神臨御，肸蠁逡巡。 獻酬雲畢，誠敬斯伸。
Removing the Offerings (tune Yingping); [Shunzhi:] Yongping. The king inspects the year—there is thanksgiving and there is prayer. The six breaths unchanged—balance and rectitude, the standard set true. Fine growth flourishes with blessing—grace reaching even crawling and flying creatures. A hundred rites harmoniously complete—receiving the spirit's auspicious radiance. [Shunzhi:] Spring prayer, autumn thanksgiving—yearly inspection, ever diligent. Partaking of pure essence, drinking virtue—all from the bright spirits. Only the spirit presides—manifest presence lingering in delay. Offering and return complete—sincerity and reverence fully extended.
141
送神豐平原寧平。 神兮旋馭，肅瞻景光。 靈飈上下，無體無方。 嘉承惠和，億兆溥將。 歲歲大有，神其迪嘗。 原出令明堂，神爽卒度。 報功迎氣，崇祀斯作。 神人以和，既康且樂。 瞻望景光，邈彼寥廓。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Fengping); [Shunzhi:] Ningping. O spirit—turning your carriage; solemnly gazing at the luminous glory. Spirit-wind above and below—without form, without direction. Finely receiving kindness and harmony—the myriad people broadly upheld. Year after year, great abundance—may the spirit guide us in tasting. [Shunzhi:] Issuing orders from the Bright Hall; the spirit's presence passes in full measure. Returning thanks for merit, welcoming the season—exalted sacrifice thus performed. Spirit and humans in harmony—both peaceful and joyful. Gazing upon the luminous glory—far off in that vast expanse.
142
太歲壇祈雨、報祀六章乾隆十八年定。 中和韶樂，太簇商立宮，倍無射變宮主調。
The six hymn-cycles for rain-prayer and thanksgiving at the Temple of the Great Year Star were fixed in Qianlong 18 (1753). The Zhonghe ceremonial music: the Taicu shang pitch establishes the mode, with doubled Wushe bian gong as the principal tonality.
143
迎神需豐持元化兮，富媼神。 秉歲籥兮，六氣均。 馳雲車兮，風旗； 殷闐闐兮，天門。 情徬徨兮，孔殷。 神之來兮，康我民。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Xufeng): Holding primal transformation—the Spirit of Earth's Mother. Grasping the year's pitch-pipe—six breaths evenly balanced. Cloud-chariots racing—wind banners; Thunderously resounding—the Heavenly Gate. Heart in anxious hesitation—most urgent. The spirit comes—bringing health to our people.
144
奠帛、初獻宜豐薦嘉幣兮，芳醴清。 練予素兮，升飶馨。 紛肸蠁兮，格歆。 甘膏沃兮，神所令。
Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Yifeng): Presenting fine silks—fragrant libation, clear. Pure white silk for me—rising fragrance, sweet. Manifest presence everywhere—approaching, delighting. Sweet moisture poured abundantly—as the spirit commands.
145
亞獻晉豐啟山罍兮，攝椒漿。 侑神宮兮，靈洋洋。 族雲興兮，使我心若； 惠嘉生兮，降康。
Second Offering (tune Jinfeng): Opening the mountain jar—drawing peppered libation. Assisting the spirit at the palace—the numinous presence vast and overflowing. Clouds mass and rise—making my heart like; Blessing fine growth—descending health.
146
終獻協豐清斝兮，三； 揚翟籥兮，載愉。 靈迴翔兮，六幕； 澤雱霈兮，遍八區。
Final Offering (tune Xiefeng): Clear libation cups, three; Raising pheasant-plumes and pitch-pipes—bearing joy. The spirit wheels and soars—six quarters of the sky; Rainfall pouring richly—spreading through all eight regions.
147
徹饌應豐禮儀備兮，孔時。 音繁會兮，徹不遲。 昭靈貺兮，迓蕃祉； 田多稼兮，氾濩之。
Removing the Offerings (tune Yingfeng): Rites complete—most timely. Music richly joined—clearing not delayed. Showing the spirit's gift—welcoming abundant blessing; Fields rich with crops—overflowing abundance.
148
送神洽豐顧億兆兮，誠求。 渥甘澍兮，神之休。 慶時若兮，百昌遂。 惠我無疆兮，歲有秋。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Qiafeng): Looking to the myriad people—sincere in seeking. Rich sweet rain—the spirit's blessing. Celebrating the season's favor—all things flourish. Blessing us without bound—each year brings harvest.
149
天神、地祇壇祈雨、報祀六章乾隆七年定。 中和韶樂，天神黃鍾宮立宮，倍夷則下羽主調。 地祇林鍾清變徵立宮，夾鍾清商主調。 齋迎神祈豐雲車馳兮，風旆征。 雷闐闐兮，雨冥冥。 表六合兮，穹青。 橫大川兮，揚靈。 紛總總兮，來會； 穆予心兮，齊明。
The six hymn-cycles for rain-prayer and thanksgiving at the Altars of the Heavenly Spirit and Earth Spirit were fixed in Qianlong 7 (1742). The Zhonghe ceremonial music: for the Heavenly Spirit, the Huangzhong gong pitch establishes the mode, with beiyize xia yu as the principal tonality. For the Earth Spirit: the Linzhong qing bian zhi pitch establishes the mode, with Jiazhong qing shang as the principal tonality. After fasting · Welcoming the Spirit (tune Qifeng): Cloud-chariots race—wind pennants advance. Thunder resounding—rain dark and deep. Manifesting the six directions—the azure vault on high. Spanning great rivers—raising the numinous presence. Gathering in multitude—all come to assemble; Solemn is my heart—purified and bright.
150
奠帛、初獻華豐束帛戔戔兮，筐篚將。 昭誠素兮，鬯馨香。 瘼此下民兮，候有望。 神垂鴻祜兮，渠未央。
Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Huafeng): Bundles of silk in abundance—baskets and hampers ready. Showing pure sincerity—sacrificial wine, fragrant. This affliction upon the people below—we await with hope. The spirit bestows vast blessing—forever without end.
151
亞獻興豐疏冪兮，再啟； 芳齊兮，載陳。 惠邀兮，神貺； 福我兮，人民。
Second Offering (tune Xingfeng): Removing the covering—opening again; Fragrant offerings—brought forth and set out. Blessing invited—the spirit's gift; Bless us—the people.
152
終獻儀豐犧尊兮，三滌； 旨酒兮，思柔。 誠無斁兮，嘉薦； 神燕娭兮，降休。
Final Offering (tune Yifeng): Sacrificial vessels, thrice washed; Excellent wine—thoughtfully mild. Sincerity without satiety—fine offerings; The spirit feasts in delight—descending blessing.
153
徹饌和豐禮既成兮，孔殷。 潔明粢兮，苾芬。 廢徹兮，不遲； 至敬兮，無文。
Removing the Offerings (tune Hefeng): Rites complete—most solemn. Pure bright grain—rich fragrance. Clearing withdrawn—not delayed; Utmost reverence—without ornament.
154
送神錫豐流形兮，露生。 苞符兮，孕靈。 介我稷黍兮，曰雨而雨； 神之格思兮，祀事孔明。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Xifeng): Form flows forth—dew is born. Wrapped in talismans—gestating the numinous. Aid our millet and grain—when we say rain, then rain; The spirit draws near—the sacrifice brightly accomplished.
155
巡祭泰山岱廟六章乾隆十三年定。 中和韶樂，林鍾清變徵立宮，夾鍾清商主調。 齋迎神祈豐資元氣兮，鎮青陽。 鼓橐籥兮，孕靈祥。 行時令兮，東巡； 式展禮兮，誠將。
The six hymn-cycles for the circuit sacrifice at Mount Tai and the Dai Temple were fixed in Qianlong 13 (1748). The Zhonghe ceremonial music: the Linzhong qing bian zhi pitch establishes the mode, with Jiazhong qing shang as the principal tonality. After fasting · Welcoming the Spirit (tune Qifeng): Drawing primal qi—guarding the Green Yang. Beating the bellows-bag and pitch-pipe—gestating numinous auspice. Conducting the seasonal command—eastern circuit; Solemnly displaying the rites—sincerity will guide.
156
奠帛、初獻華豐金壇肅穆兮，黼帷張。 瑟黃流兮，茅縮漿。 昭誠素兮，舉初觴。 神斯陟降兮，格馨香。
Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Huafeng): Golden altar solemn and still—broidered curtains spread. The se zither plays; yellow liquor flows—mat-wrapped meat and fermented brew. Manifest sincerity and purity—raising the first libation cup. The spirit now ascends and descends—approaching the fragrant offering.
157
亞獻興豐日觀兮，雞鳴。 天門兮，鳳翔。 犧尊兮，再獻； 維神兮，降康。
Second Offering (tune Xingfeng): The Sun-Viewing Peak—cock's crow. Heaven's Gate—phoenixes soar. Sacrificial goblet—second offering; O spirit—descend with peace.
158
終獻儀豐醴齊兮，三薦； 金牒兮，輝煌。 申至敬兮，無祈； 鑒予誠兮，齋庄。
Final Offering (tune Yifeng): Clear sacrificial wine, three offerings; Golden tablets—glorious and bright. Express utmost reverence—without petition; Witness my sincerity—pure in fasting, solemn in demeanor.
159
徹饌和豐瞻石閭兮，在望。 實籩豆兮，大房。 黍稷兮，非馨； 明德兮，是將。
Removing the offerings (tune Hefeng): Gazing at Stone Village—in view. Full are the bian trays and dou vessels—great in abundance. Millet and grain—the fragrance lies not in them alone; In brilliant virtue—here is what we bring.
160
送神錫豐禮成兮，孔臧。 神駕兮，龍驤。 膚寸而合兮，觸石而起； 彌於六合兮，降福穰穰。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Xifeng): Rites complete—most excellent. The spirit's carriage—dragons rearing high. Clouds a span wide unite—rising when they touch the rock; Filling the six directions—descending blessings in abundance.
161
巡祭嵩山中嶽廟六章乾隆十五年定。 中和韶樂，林鍾清變徵立宮，夾鍾清商主調。
The six hymn-cycles for imperial sacrifice at Mount Song and the Central Peak Temple were fixed in Qianlong 15 (1750). The Zhonghe ceremonial music: the Linzhong qing bian zhi pitch establishes the mode, with Jiazhong qing shang as the principal tonality.
162
迎神祈豐維靈岳兮，鎮中央。 展時巡兮，洛之陽。 虔望秩兮，懷柔； 儼對越兮，神光。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Qifeng): The numinous peak guards the center. Conducting the seasonal tour—on the northern bank of the Luo. Devoutly observing the prescribed order—embracing and soothing; Solemnly facing the spirit—divine radiance.
163
奠帛、初獻華豐石闕岧嶢兮，鳴鳳翔。 奏瑤笙兮，肅祼將。 初奉斝兮，陳篚筐。 至誠昭格兮，福無疆。
Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Huafeng): The stone gate-tower rises high—singing phoenixes soar. Playing the jade sheng—solemnly the libation about to be offered. First presenting the jue goblet—setting out baskets and hampers. Utmost sincerity made manifest—the spirit's approach; blessings without bound.
164
亞獻興豐潁水兮，安恬； 緱嶺兮，青蒼。 黃琮兮，告薦； 椒醑兮，芬芳。
Second Offering (tune Xingfeng): The Ying River—calm and peaceful; Goulao Ridge—deep blue-green. Yellow jade cong—announcing the offering; Spiced wine—rich and fragrant.
165
終獻儀豐香升兮，華黍； 三滌兮，嘉觴。 答靈響兮，嵩門； 登萬寶兮，咸昌。
Final Offering (tune Yifeng): Fragrant grain ascends—fine glutinous millet; Three purifications—fine libations. Responding to the spirit's echo—at Song's gate; Ascending the myriad treasures—all flourish.
166
徹饌和豐三台蔚兮，峻極； 二室郁兮，相望。 告徹兮，維時； 懷德兮，靡忘。
Removing the offerings (tune Hefeng): The Three Peaks lushly green—loftiest height; The Two Chambers luxuriant—gazing at each other. Announcing the clearing—at the proper time; Cherishing virtue—never forgetting.
167
送神錫豐雲車兮，龍驤。 仰止兮，高閶。 玉漿含滋兮，金璧呈瑞； 配天作鎮兮，長發其祥。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Xifeng): Cloud-chariots—dragons rearing high. Looking up to halt—the lofty gates of heaven. Jade nectar holds its moisture—gold and jade disks display auspicious signs; Matched to Heaven as the stabilizing peak—forever sending forth auspiciousness.
168
望祀長白山六章乾隆十九年定。 中和韶樂，林鍾清變徵立宮，夾鍾清商主調。
The six hymn-cycles for distant sacrifice at Changbai Mountain were fixed in Qianlong 19 (1754). The Zhonghe ceremonial music: the Linzhong qing bian zhi pitch establishes the mode, with Jiazhong qing shang as the principal tonality.
169
迎神祈豐天作高山兮，作而康。 鍾王氣兮，應期昌。 巡豐沛兮，來望。 躬禋祀兮，虔將。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Qifeng): Heaven made the lofty mountain—making it peaceful and prosperous. Gathering royal qi—responding at the appointed time with flourishing glory. Touring the abundant reaches—coming to gaze upon it. Personally performing the suburban sacrifice—devoutly about to proceed.
170
奠帛、初獻華豐飶黃流兮，進初觴。 緬仙源兮，心遫庄。 靄佳氣兮，郁蒼蒼。 欣來格兮，惠無疆。
Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Huafeng): Rich fragrance of yellow liquor—presenting the first libation. Longing for the immortal source—heart swiftly solemn. Misty excellent qi—lush and deep green. Joyfully coming to approach—grace without bound.
171
亞獻興豐硃果兮，實蕃； 靈淵兮，澤雱。 清尊兮，再獻； 綿祚兮，純常。
Second Offering (tune Xingfeng): Crimson fruits—fruit abundant; The numinous abyss—grace showers like pouring rain. Clear libation vessels—second offering; Everlasting rule—pure and enduring.
172
終獻儀豐具薦兮，玉饌； 三酌兮，瓊漿。 思王跡兮，彌欽； 清緝熙兮，敢忘。
Final Offering (tune Yifeng): All offerings complete—jade viands; Three pourings—jade nectar. Contemplating the king's traces—increasingly reverent; Pure and orderly, bright and prosperous—how dare we forget.
173
徹饌和豐松花水兮，湯湯。 鴨綠波兮，泱泱。 神飫兮，錫釐； 如川至兮，莫量。
Removing the offerings (tune Hefeng): Pine-flower water—surging flow. Duck-green waves—vast and swelling. The spirit is satisfied—bestowing blessing; Like rivers arriving—beyond measure.
174
送神錫豐祀事兮，孔臧。 昭假兮，永明。 邁周岐兮，越殷土； 萬有千歲兮，長發其祥。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Xifeng): The sacrifice—most excellent. Manifest presence—eternally bright. Surpassing the Zhou at Mount Qi—transcending the Yin at their land; Ten thousand years multiplied a thousandfold—forever sending forth auspiciousness.
175
群祀慶神歡樂乾隆七年定，每歲祭先醫於景惠殿，火神廟、顯佑宮、關帝廟、都城隍廟、東嶽廟、黑龍潭龍神祠、玉泉龍神祠、興工祭后土、司工之神、迎晹祭窯神、門神皆用之。 三獻三奏。 乾隆三十三年又重定關帝廟迎神、三獻、送神各一章。 咸豐三年升入中祀，特製樂章，列後。 齋先醫精氣緣乎理，調劑觀所頤。 曰惟古聖，嘗草定醫，似鐵隨磁。 沴除吉至，化工出自於指，萬姓永荷恩施。
The "Celebrating Spirits at Collective Sacrifices" music was fixed in Qianlong 7 (1742); it is used annually for sacrifice to the Ancestor of Physicians at Jinghui Hall, at the Fire God Temple, Xianyou Palace, Guandi Temple, Capital City God Temple, Eastern Peak Temple, Heilongtan Dragon Spirit Shrine, Yuquan Dragon Spirit Shrine, commencement-of-work sacrifice to Earth and the Spirit of Works, sun-welcoming sacrifice to the Kiln Spirit, and the Door Spirits. Three offerings, three musical renditions. In Qianlong 33 (1768) the hymns for Guandi Temple Welcoming the Spirit, three offerings, and Escorting the Spirit were revised again, one chapter each. In Xianfeng 3 (1853) it was promoted to mid-tier sacrifice; special hymn-cycles were composed, listed below. After Fasting · Ancestor of Physicians: Vital essence follows reason; compounding medicines observes what nourishes. It is said the ancient sage tasted the hundred herbs and fixed the art of medicine—like iron following the lodestone. Pestilence dispelled, auspiciousness arrives; the transformations of nature issue from these fingers—the myriad people forever bear his gracious favor.
176
顯佑宮居所躔星軫，象緯環拱辰。 貞元運轉，藏用顯仁。 宥密基命，毓和葆順。 潔粢醴，以昭信。 日襄哉，贊大鈞。
Xianyou Palace: The dwelling tracks the star Xu—astral signs circling and bowing to the celestial pivot. The true primal force turns in motion—concealing its function, manifesting benevolence. Deep within the stillness, the foundation of decree—nurturing harmony and preserving accord. Pure grain offerings and libation wine—to manifest sincerity. Daily assist!—supporting the Great Balance.
177
東嶽廟維岳崧高五，泰岱常祀殊。 累朝玉檢，柴望始虞。 木德條風，吹萬畢煦，宅東隅以生物。 仰天齊，鑒有孚。
Eastern Peak Temple: Of the five lofty peaks, Mount Tai and Mount Dai alone have regular sacrifices set apart. Through successive dynasties jade tablets were sealed; the feng and shan rites began in the age of Yu. Wood's virtue, the soft spring wind—breathing upon the myriad and warming all—dwelling in the eastern quarter to bring forth life. Looking up to Heaven's equal—witness our sincerity.
178
都城隍廟佳麗皇都勝，保障神力宏。 萬方輻輳，尨夜不驚。 正直聰明，癉彰如影，荷靈貺，篤其慶。 固金甌，護玉京。
Capital City God Temple: The splendid capital surpasses all—protecting and safeguarding, divine power vast. From all directions they gather—quiet through the long night. Upright, perceptive, and wise—merits clear as shadows; receiving the spirit's gifts, his blessings run deep. Securing the golden vessel, guarding the jade capital.
179
火神廟離正南方位，燭照光九圍。 粒民火食，功用不違。 瓘斝明粢，我民祈慰，覆祥靄，戢鶉尾。 息融風，降福禧。
Fire God Temple: The due-south position—illuminating the ninefold realm with light. The people rely on grain and fire for food—his function never failing. Jade goblets and bright grain offerings—our people pray for comfort; auspicious clouds cover all, the Chunwei constellation abides. The melting wind subsides—descending blessings and joy.
180
龍神祠興雨祁祁應，歷歲恩屢覃。 湫幽神御，農扈具瞻。 寸合崇朝，十千有渰。 黍膏溥，牟麥湛。 賽神庥，以作甘。
Dragon Spirit Shrine: Timely rains answer gently—year after year his grace spreads wide. The deep pool is the spirit's domain—all farmers look to it. Clouds a span wide unite in a single morning—myriad rains pour down. Millet fat and rich, barley and wheat deep and full. To repay the spirit's favor—with sweetness for all.
181
門神和氣嘉祥應，聖日華耀明。 仰方泰紫，俯奠泰寧。 遼廓紘瀛，此惟表正。 食神德，蒙神慶。 享明禋，億萬齡。
Door Spirits: Harmonious qi brings auspicious response; sacred days shine bright and clear. Looking up to the square vault and purple Heaven; looking down to set forth great peace. Vast and boundless, the whole realm within the four seas—here alone is the standard set aright. Feasting on the spirit's virtue; receiving the spirit's blessing. Enjoying bright sacrificial rites—for myriad myriad years.
182
司工之神仰眺銀河上，閣道如駕梁。 儼神宅只，愉矣穆將。 揆日鳴櫜，翳神斯掌。 奠椒酒，以禋享。 荷神庥，澤未央。
Spirit of Works: Looking up from the Silver River—gallery paths like spanning beams. Solemn is the spirit's dwelling; joyful and reverent in approach. Choosing the day, sounding the quiver; the shadowing spirit holds sway. Presenting peppered wine—to feast in sacred rite. Bearing the spirit's favor—blessings without end.
183
關帝廟扶植綱常正，浩氣昭日星。 絕倫獨立，英爽若生。 俎豆常馨，夏彝胥敬； 仰神德莫疇，並助邦家永太平。
Guandi Temple: Upholding the norms of human relations aright—mighty qi shines like sun and stars. Unmatched and standing alone—heroic presence as if still alive. Sacrificial vessels ever fragrant; summer ritual vessels all receive reverence; Looking up to divine virtue beyond compare—together aiding the realm in lasting great peace.
184
乾隆三十三年，重定關帝廟樂五章
In Qianlong 33 (1768), the five chapters of Guandi Temple music were revised again.
185
迎神青湛湛，玉霄門。 神來下，采旄紛。 宮牆輪奐，籩豆芳芬。 光景動人民。 丹心照日。 浩氣扶輪。
Welcoming the Spirit: Deep azure, the Jade Heaven Gate. The spirit descends—multicolored banners in profusion. Palace walls splendidly adorned; bian and dou vessels sweetly fragrant. His radiance moves the people. Scarlet heart shining upon the sun. Mighty qi upholds the wheel of fate.
186
奠帛初獻調蘭醑，酌桂尊。 神來饗，房俎陳。 忠貫金石，義炳乾坤。 純臣戴一君。 力扶王室，不原三分。
Offering Silks · First Offering: Blending orchid brew, pouring from the cassia goblet. The spirit comes to feast—inner sacrificial trays arrayed. Loyalty piercing metal and stone; righteousness blazing through Heaven and Earth. A pure minister serving one lord alone. He strove to uphold the royal house—[Shunzhi:] never shirking the threefold division.
187
亞獻汎盎齊，觴再進。 簫鼓諧，聲歌韻。 武節絕倫，不辭利鈍。 神勇天威震。 方知舊史，未符公論。
Second Offering: Pouring the dark sacrificial wine; the cup offered again. Flutes and drums in harmony; voices and song in rhythm. Martial bearing beyond compare—not declining whether sharp or dull. Divine valor—Heaven's majesty resounds. Only then do we know the old histories fall short of public judgment.
188
終獻禮秩秩，樂欣欣。 儼威靈，至今存。 惟靈惟佑，佑國佑民。 典禮極隆文。 式揚顯號，時薦明禋。
Final Offering: Rites orderly; music joyful. Solemn is his awesome spirit—still present to this day. Spirit alone, blessing alone—blessing the state and blessing the people. Ritual ceremony reaches the utmost in cultured splendor. Thus proclaiming the illustrious title; timely offering bright sacrificial rites.
189
徹饌、送神司儀告徹，靈風來洎。 神聿歸，嘉徵萃。 大濟群生，善良胥得意。 邪慝無伸喙，皇化所及。 咸尊廟食，東西朔南靡弗暨。
Removing the Feast · Escorting the Spirit: The master of ceremonies announces withdrawal; spirit-wind comes near. The spirit swiftly returns—auspicious signs gather. Greatly aiding all living beings—the good all attain their wish. The wicked have no chance to speak—wherever imperial transformation reaches. All honor him with temple offerings—east, west, north, and south, none left unreachéd.
190
咸豐三年，關帝廟樂七章中和韶樂
In Xianfeng 3 (1853), seven chapters of Guandi Temple music; Sublime Harmony Music.
191
迎神格平懿鑠兮，焜煌。 神威靈兮，赫八方。 偉烈昭兮，累禩； 祀事明兮，永光。 達精誠兮，黍稷馨香。 儼如在兮，洋洋。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Geping): Majestic brilliance—radiant and resplendent. Divine majesty and spirit—shining over the eight directions. Grand exploits manifest—through successive years of sacrifice; Sacrificial affairs clear—eternal glory. Conveying utmost sincerity—millet and millet fragrant and sweet. Solemn as if present—abundant and full.
192
奠帛、初獻翊平英風颯兮，神格思。 紛綺蓋兮，龍旂。 桂醑兮，盈卮。 香始升兮，明粢。 惟降鑒兮，在茲。 流景祚兮，翊昌時。
Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Yiping): Heroic wind rustles—the spirit approaches in thought. Broidered canopies in profusion; dragon banners. Cassia brew—cups filled to the brim. Incense first rises—bright sacrificial grain. Only descend and witness—here and now. Flowing fortune and blessing—aiding a flourishing age.
193
亞獻恢平觴再酌兮，告虔。 舞干戚兮，合宮懸。 歆苾芬兮，潔蠲。 扇巍顯翼兮，神功宣。
Second Offering (tune Huiping): The cup poured again—declaring reverence. Dancing with shield and axe—matching the palace bells and chimes. Delighting in rich fragrance—pure and cleansed. Spreading lofty, manifest wings—divine merit proclaimed.
194
終獻靖平郁鬯兮，三申。 羅籩簋兮，畢陳。 儀卒度兮，肅明禋。 神降福兮，宜民宜人。
Final Offering (tune Jingping): Aromatic dark wine—offered thrice. Arraying bian and gui vessels—all fully set out. Rites complete in measure—solemn bright sacrificial service. The spirit descends with blessing—fitting for the people, fitting for all.
195
徹饌彝平物惟備兮，咸有。 明德惟馨兮，神其受。 告徹兮，禮終罔咎。 佑我家邦兮，孔厚。
Removing the Feast (tune Yiping): Offerings all prepared—each in full. Bright virtue alone is fragrant—the spirit accepts it. Announcing withdrawal—rites complete without fault. Protecting our house and state—most abundantly.
196
送神康平幢葆葳蕤兮，神聿歸。 馭鳳軫兮，驂虯騑。 降煙熅兮，餘芬菲。 原回靈盼兮，德洽明威。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Kangping): Banners and canopies lush and full—the spirit swiftly returns. Driving the phoenix chariot—outriders of horned dragons. Descending smoke and warmth—lingering fragrance sweet. [Shunzhi:] The spirit turns its gaze homeward—virtue pervades, bright majesty enfolds all.
197
望燎同熏蒿烈兮，燎有煇。 神光遙矚兮，祥雲霏。 祭受福兮，茂典無違。 庶揚駿烈兮，永奠疆畿。
Burning Offerings at the Watch Fire · same · Burning mugwort fierce and bright—the blaze has splendor. Divine light gazes from afar—auspicious clouds drift dense. The sacrifice receives blessing—grand rites without deviation. May we spread his grand exploits—forever securing the borderlands.
198
文昌帝君廟七章咸豐六年升入中祀，重定樂章。 中和韶樂
Wenchang Dijun Temple: seven chapters; in Xianfeng 6 (1856) raised to middle sacrifice, hymns revised again. Sublime Harmony Music.
199
迎神丕平秉氣兮，靈躔。 文運兮，赫中天。 蜺旌兮，戾止。 雕俎兮，告虔。 迓神庥兮，於萬斯年。
Welcoming the Spirit (tune Piping): Holding qi—spirit's celestial course. Literary fortune—shining at mid-Heaven. Rainbow banners—alighting and stopping. Carved sacrificial stands—declaring reverence. Welcoming the spirit's favor—for myriad myriad years.
200
奠帛、初獻俶平神之來兮，籩簋式陳。 神之格兮，几筵式親。 極昭彰兮，靈貺； 致蠲潔兮，明禋。 升香兮，伊始； 居歆兮，佑我人民。
Offering Silks · First Offering (tune Chuping): The spirit comes—bian and gui duly arrayed. The spirit approaches—banquet mats drawn near. Utmost manifest brilliance—spirit's gift; Presenting pure cleansing—bright sacrificial rite. Incense rises—just now begun; Abiding in acceptance—protecting our people.
201
亞獻煥平再酌兮，瑤觴。 燦爛兮，庭燎之光。 申虔禱兮，神座； 儼陟降兮，帝旁。 粢醴潔兮，齋遫將。 綏景運兮，靈長。
Second Offering (tune Huanping): Pouring again—the jade libation cup. Blazing bright—the courtyard beacon's light. Declaring reverent prayer—before the spirit's seat; Solemnly ascending and descending—beside the Emperor. Grain and wine pure—fasting swiftly prepared. Securing bright fortune—spirit enduring long.
202
終獻煜平禮成三獻兮，樂奏三終。 覃敷元化兮，繄神功。 馨香達兮，肸蠁通。 歆明德兮，昭察寅衷。
Final Offering (tune Yuping): Rites complete with three offerings—music played to its third ending. Spreading far the primal transformation—through divine merit alone. Fragrance reaches far—spirit-perception connects. Delighting in bright virtue—clearly discerning our sincere hearts.
203
徹饌懿平備物兮，惟時。 告徹兮，終禮儀。 神悅懌兮，監在茲。 垂鴻佑兮，累洽重熙。
Removing the Feast (tune Yiping): Offerings prepared—each in season. Announcing withdrawal—rites at their end. The spirit pleased and content—watching here and now. Bestowing vast blessing—accumulated harmony, renewed splendor.
204
送神蔚平雲軿駕兮，風旗招。 神之歸兮，天路遙。 瞻翠葆兮，企丹霄。 原回靈眷兮，福我朝。
Escorting the Spirit (tune Weiping): Cloud-chariot drives forth—wind banners beckon. The spirit returns—the heavenly path is far. Gazing at the green canopy—longing for the cinnabar sky. [Shunzhi:] Turning back spirit's favor—blessing our dynasty.
205
望燎同煙熅降兮，元氣和。 神光爥兮，梓潼之阿。 化成耆定兮，櫜弓戢戈。 文治光兮，受福則那。
Burning Offerings at the Watch Fire · same · Smoke's glow descends—primordial qi harmonizes. Divine light gleams—at Zitong's slope. Transformation complete, elders settled—bows quivered, weapons stilled. Culture's governance shines—how great the blessing received!
206
順治元年，皇帝祭祀迴鑾二章導迎樂
Shunzhi 1 (1644): Two chapters of Music for Leading the Welcome on the Emperor's return from sacrifice.
207
天地群祀祜平皇天有命，列聖承之。 我後配德，文匡武綏。 海隅寧謐，神靈燕娭。 於萬斯年，流慶降釐。
Earthly and Heavenly Collective Sacrifices (tune Huping): Heaven has ordained; successive sages inherit it. Our sovereign matches virtue—culture supports, martial power pacifies. Sea corners are tranquil and still; spirits feast at ease. For myriad myriad years—flowing blessings descend as favor.
208
太廟禧平於皇紹烈，累熙重光。 銷鑠群慝，我武奮揚。 肅肅清廟，瓘瓘奉璋。 奠鬯斯馨，祚命無疆。
Grand Temple (tune Xiping): O august inheritor of glory—accumulated splendor, renewed brilliance. Melting away the host of evils—our martial power stirs and spreads. Solemnly, solemnly the pure temple—gleaming jade, presenting the tablets. Sacrificial wine fragrant—foundations without bound.
209
乾隆十七年，重定祭祀迴鑾祐平十三章樂章乾隆七年制，十七年始定凡祭祀迴鑾樂皆曰祐平，而以慶典所奏者為禧平。 導迎樂
In Qianlong 17 (1752) the thirteen-chapter Youping hymns for return from sacrifice were re-fixed; composed in Qianlong 7 (1742), and in Qianlong 17 it was first established that all music for return from sacrifice is called Youping, while that played at celebratory rites is called Xiping. Music for Leading the Welcome.
210
圜丘崇德殷薦，升燎告虔。 惟聖能饗，至諴天眷。 駕六龍，臨紫煙。 佑命申，圖籙綿。
Circular Mound (tune Chongde): Abundant offering—ascending the fire to declare reverence. Only the sage can receive it—utmost sincerity wins Heaven's favor. Driving six dragons—approaching the purple mist. Protecting fate renewed—the imperial charts extend on.
211
方澤隤爾而靜，持載廣生。 長至修祀，聿來光景。 富媼愉，元德升。 岳瀆安，民物亨。
Square Mound (tune Tui'er): Still and quiet—it bears and carries, broadly giving life. At winter solstice performing sacrifice—come forth in splendor of light. Earth-Mother pleased—primal virtue ascends. Mountains and rivers at peace—people and things prosper.
212
祈穀民者邦本，食乃民天。 爰卜辛日，大君殷薦。 龍角明，祈有年。 耒耜親，天下先。
Prayer for Grain: People are the state's foundation—food is the people's Heaven. Choosing the xin day—the great lord makes abundant offerings. Dragon Horns bright—praying for a bountiful year. Ploughing implements in person—first under Heaven.
213
雩祭炎夏初屆，憫我穡夫。 為民請命，法駕載塗。 明德馨，誠意孚。 禾稼登，斯樂胥。
Rain-Prayer Sacrifice: Early summer's heat arrives—pitying our ploughmen. Pleading for the people's lives—the imperial carriage sets out on the road. Bright virtue fragrant—sincere intent trusted. Grain crops ripen—all share this joy.
214
太廟儀若先典，追孝在天。 鴻慶遐鬯，烈光丕顯。 祝事明，神貺宣。 福庶民，千萬年。
Grand Temple: Rites like ancient precedent—filial remembrance reaches Heaven. Vast celebration, far-off fragrant wine—majestic brilliance greatly manifest. Sacrificial affairs clear—spirit's gifts proclaimed. Blessing the common people—for a thousand myriad years.
215
社稷壇分職三大，康乂國家。 平土蕃穀，降休中夏。 薦吉蠲，神不遐。 遍九垓，鳥祉嘉。
State and Grain Altars: Three great offices divided—peacefully governing the state. Leveling soil, multiplying grain—descending favor upon central China. Offering on an auspicious pure day—the spirit not distant. Throughout the nine regions—auspicious blessings upon all.
216
堂子禋祀隆永，維統百靈。 延福儲祉，奠安神鼎。 修祀祠，通紫庭。 降福祥，昭德馨。
Tangzi: Sublime sacrificial rites enduring—unifying the hundred spirits. Extending fortune, storing blessing—establishing the spirit tripod in peace. Performing rites and sacrifices—connecting to the purple court. Descending fortune and auspiciousness—bright virtue fragrant.
217
出師、凱旋告祭堂子維文武略，勛業攸崇。 欽承睿算，往征不恭。 扇仁風，在師中。 月三捷，奏膚功。
Departure and Triumphant Return Reports at Tangzi: With plan for civil and martial arts—meritorious achievements are honored. Reverently receiving the wise plan—going forth to punish the disrespectful. Spreading benevolent wind—in the midst of the army. Three victories in a month—presenting the achieved exploit.
218
日壇雝肅音送，暾出自東。 兼燭垂曜，與天用同。 秩典修，皇敬通。 表瑞輝，揚至公。
Sun Altar (tune Yongsong): Solemn tones escort—the bright sun emerges from the east. Shining on all, radiance descends—same use as Heaven. Statutory rites restored—the emperor's reverence reaches through. Manifesting auspicious brilliance—raising up utmost fairness.
219
月壇殷仲嘗酎，華黍若油。 興穀繁祉，受符天后。 涌桂華，凝彩斿。 玉燭調，千萬秋。
Moon Altar (tune Yinchang): Trying the fermented offering—splendid millet like oil. Raising grain, multiplying blessing—receiving mandate from the Queen of Heaven. Surging osmanthus blooms—colored streamers gather. Jade balance harmonized—for a thousand myriad autumns.
220
歷代帝王廟時序群品，端在一欽。 衣德凝命，荷天之任。 景軌儀，誠既歆。 肅駿奔，顒若臨。
Temple of Past Emperors: Seasonal order of all ranks—all depends on one reverence. Clothed in virtue, solidifying mandate—bearing Heaven's charge. Impressive models and rites—sincerity fully received. Solemnly hurrying to attend—looking up as if present.
221
先師廟先聖垂軌，千載是祗。 虔奉師表，景行行止。 奠兩楹，神降之。 啟後人，文在茲。
Temple of the First Teacher: The first sage left his model—for a thousand years revered. Reverently upholding the teacher's model—great is his conduct. Placing offerings between the two pillars—the spirit descends. Opening the way for later generations—culture is here.
222
先農壇翩彼桑扈，仁氣布和。 千畝親御，百祥膺荷。 保介歆，穜棱多。 帝手推，民樂歌。
First Farmer Altar: Fluttering are the orioles—benevolent qi spreads in harmony. A thousand acres ploughed in person—a hundred blessings received and borne. Guardian spirits delighted—abundant seed grains. The Emperor pushes the plough by hand—the people sing for joy.