Volume 115 Treatises 68: Rites 18

禮十八〈（嘉禮六）

Rites 18 (Auspicious Rites VI)

○皇太子冠禮皇子附公主笄禮公主下降儀宗室附親王納妃品官婚禮士庶人婚禮

○ Crown prince capping; imperial sons' marriages; princess hairpin rite; princess leaving the palace; imperial clansmen's marriages; imperial princes taking consorts; ranked officials' weddings; commoners' weddings

皇太子冠儀，嚐行於大中祥符之八年。徽宗親製《冠禮沿革》十一卷，命儀禮局仿以編次。

The crown prince capping rite had been carried out once before, in the eighth year of the Dazhong Xiangfu reign (1015). Emperor Huizong personally compiled eleven fascicles entitled Evolution of Capping Rites and instructed the Bureau of Ceremonial to organize the ritual according to that model.

其儀：前期奏告天地、宗廟、神稷、諸陵、宮觀。殿中監帥尚舍張設垂拱、文德殿門之內，設香案殿下螭陛間，又為房於東朵殿。大晟展宮架樂於橫街南，太常設太子冠席東階上、東宮官位於後，設褥位，陳服於席南，東領北上。遠遊冠簪導、袞冕簪導同箱，在服南。設罍洗阼階東，罍在洗東，篚在洗西，實巾一，加勺冪。光祿設醴席西階上，南面，實側尊在席南。又設饌於席，加冪。執事者並公服，立罍洗酒饌之所。九旒冕、遠遊冠、折上巾各一匴，奉禮郎三人執以侍於東階之東、西北上。設典儀位於宮架東北，讚者二人在南，西向。

The procedure was as follows. In advance, memorials were presented to Heaven and Earth, the ancestral temples, the altars of soil and grain, all imperial mausoleums, and the palace Daoist establishments. The Director of the Palace Secretariat directed the Masters of Lodging to arrange the interiors of the Chuihong and Wende palace gates, placed incense tables on the dragon-figured steps below the hall platform, and prepared a side room in the eastern auxiliary hall. The Dasheng Music Office set up the palace frame orchestra south of the cross street. The Court of Imperial Sacrifices placed the crown prince's capping seat on the eastern steps, with positions for Eastern Palace officials behind it, a cushioned seat, and ceremonial dress laid out to the south of the seat, facing east with the leading edge to the north. The hairpin guides for the Cap of Distant Travels and for the imperial robe-and-crown were kept in the same case, placed south of the dress. A wine jar and wash basin were placed to the east of the eastern steps of the main hall: the jar to the east of the basin, a basket to the west, one towel inside, and a ladle with its cover set on top. The Director of the Imperial Commissariat arranged the ceremonial wine seat on the western steps, facing south, with a filled side vessel placed to its south. Food offerings were also laid on the seat and covered. All attendants wore official robes and stood at their stations by the jar, wash basin, wine, and food. One case each held the nine-tassel crown, the Cap of Distant Travels, and the folded kerchief; three Masters of Ceremonial bore them in attendance to the east of the eastern steps, aligned toward the northwest with the leading edge to the north. The master of ceremonies took his place northeast of the palace frame orchestra, while two announcers stood to the south, facing west.

禮直官、通事舍人、太常博士引太子詣朵殿東房。皇帝乘輦，駐垂拱殿，百官起居如月朔視朝儀。左輔版奏中嚴，內外符寶郎奉寶先出；左輔奏外辦，皇帝服通天冠、絳紗袍詣文德殿，簾卷。大樂正令撞黃鍾之鍾，右五鍾皆應。殿上鳴鞭，皇帝出西閣乘輦，協律郎俯伏，跪，舉麾，興，工鼓，奏《乾安之樂》，殿上扇合。禮直官、太常博士引禮儀使導皇帝出，降輦即坐，簾卷扇開，鞭鳴樂止，爐煙升。符寶郎奉寶陳於御坐左右，禮直官、通事舍人、太常博士引掌冠、讚冠者入門，《肅安之樂》作，至位，樂止。典儀曰“再拜”，在位者皆再拜。左輔詣御坐前，承製降東階，詣掌冠者前西向稱有制，典儀讚在位官再拜訖，宣製曰：“皇太子冠，命卿等行禮。 ”掌冠、讚冠者再拜訖，文臣侍從官、宗室、武臣節度使以上升殿，東西立，應行禮官詣東階下立。

Ritual officers, Communication Chamber attendants, and academicians of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices escorted the crown prince to the eastern room of the side hall. The emperor rode in the imperial palanquin and stopped at the Chuihong Palace, while the officials performed the salutations prescribed for the first-day audience of the month. The Left Assistant reported from the memorial board that the inner vigil had begun, and the inner and outer seal officers brought out the imperial seals first; The Left Assistant reported that the outer preparations were complete. The emperor put on the Piercing Heaven crown and crimson gauze robe and went to the Wende Palace as the curtains were raised. The Director of Great Music had the yellow bell struck, and the five bells to its right all chimed in response. A whip cracked in the hall. The emperor emerged from the western pavilion and mounted the palanquin. The pitch officer prostrated himself, knelt, raised his baton, and rose as the musicians struck up; the piece Qian'an was played, and the hall fans were folded shut. Ritual officers and academicians of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices led the master of ceremonies to escort the emperor out. He stepped down from the palanquin and took his seat; the curtains were raised and the fans opened; at the crack of the whip the music stopped and incense smoke rose from the braziers. Seal officers brought forward the imperial seals and placed them on either side of the throne. Ritual officers, Communication Chamber attendants, and academicians escorted the crown-placers and crown-praisers through the gate to the music of Su'an; when they reached their stations, the music stopped. The master of ceremonies called for a double bow, and everyone in attendance performed it. The Left Assistant approached the throne, received the edict, descended the eastern steps, and stood west-facing before the crown-placers to announce that an edict was forthcoming. After the master of ceremonies had the officials in attendance perform a double bow, the edict was read: "The crown prince is to receive his cap; I command you to conduct the ceremony. " The crown-placers and crown-praisers completed their double bows. Civil attendant officials, imperial clansmen, and military commissioners and above ascended the hall and took their places to east and west, while the officials who were to take part in the rite stood below the eastern steps.

東宮官入，詣太子東房，次禮直官等引太子，內侍二人夾侍，東宮官後從，《欽安之樂》作，即席西向坐，樂止。引掌冠、讚冠者以次詣罍洗，樂作，搢笏，盥帨訖，出笏，升，樂止。執折上巾者升，掌冠者降一等受之，右執項，左執前，進皇太子席前，北向立，祝曰：“谘爾元子，肇冠於阼。筮日擇賓，德成禮具。於萬斯年，承天之祜。 ”乃跪冠，《順安之樂》作，掌冠者興，）〉席南北面立，〈（後準此。）〉讚冠者進席前，北面跪正冠，興，立於掌冠者之後。太子興，內侍跪進服，服訖，樂止。

Eastern Palace officials entered and went to the crown prince's eastern room. Ritual officers then escorted the crown prince out, flanked by two inner attendants with Eastern Palace officials following behind, to the music of Qin'an. He took his seat facing west, and the music stopped. The crown-placers and crown-praisers were led in succession to the wash basin. Music played as they inserted their tablets, washed and dried their hands, withdrew their tablets, and ascended; then the music ceased. The attendant bearing the folded kerchief ascended. The crown-placer stepped down one level to receive it, grasping the rear with his right hand and the front with his left, and advanced to stand north-facing before the crown prince's seat. He pronounced the blessing: "I announce to you, eldest son, that you are first capped at the eastern steps. The auspicious day was chosen by divination and the ceremonial guest selected; virtue was fulfilled and the rites made complete. For ten thousand years may you receive Heaven's blessing." He then knelt to set the cap on his head as Shun'an was played; the crown-placer rose.) He stood facing north before the seat, (The same applies hereafter.) The crown-praiser stepped forward before the seat, knelt north-facing to adjust the cap, rose, and took his place behind the crown-placer. The crown prince rose while inner attendants knelt to bring forward his garments. Once he was dressed, the music stopped.

掌冠者揖太子復坐，禮直官等引掌冠者降詣罍洗，如上儀。讚冠者進席前，北向跪，脫折上巾置於匴，興，內侍跪受，興，置於席。執遠遊冠者升，掌冠者降二等受之，右執項，左執前，進太子席前，北向立，祝曰：“爰即令辰，申加元服。崇學以讓，三善皆得。副予一人，受天百福。 ”乃跪冠，《懿安》之樂作，掌冠者興。讚冠者進，跪簪結紘，興。太子興，內侍跪進服，服訖，樂止。

The crown-placer gestured for the crown prince to resume his seat, and ritual officers escorted him down to the wash basin as before. The crown-praiser advanced before the seat, knelt north-facing, removed the folded kerchief and placed it in the case, then rose. Inner attendants knelt to receive it, rose, and set it on the seat. The attendant bearing the Cap of Distant Travels ascended. The crown-placer stepped down two levels to receive it, grasping the rear with his right hand and the front with his left, and advanced to stand north-facing before the crown prince's seat. He pronounced the blessing: "On this auspicious hour we confer the second cap. Revere learning through humility; the three virtues of the Eastern Palace are all fulfilled. Stand as my second self; receive Heaven's hundred blessings." He knelt to set the cap as Yi'an was played, and the crown-placer rose. The crown-praiser stepped forward, knelt to insert the hairpin and tie the cap strings, and rose. The crown prince rose while inner attendants knelt to bring forward his garments. Once he was dressed, the music stopped.

掌冠者揖太子復坐，掌冠者降詣罍洗，及讚冠者跪，脫遠遊冠，並如上儀。執袞冕者升，掌冠者降三等受之，右執項，左執前，進太子席前，北向立，祝曰：“三加彌尊，國本以正。無疆惟休，有室大競。懋昭厥德，保茲永命。 ”乃跪冠，《成安之樂》作。掌冠者興。讚冠者如上儀，跪簪結紘。內侍進服，服訖，樂止。禮直官等引太子降自東階，樂作，由西階升，即醴席南向坐，樂止。又引掌冠者詣罍洗，樂作，盥帨訖，升西階，樂止。讚冠者跪取爵，內侍注酒，掌冠者受爵，跪進太子席前，北向立，祝曰：“旨酒嘉薦，有飶其香。拜受祭之，以定爾祥。令德壽豈，日進無疆。 ”太子搢圭，跪受爵，《正安之樂》作，飲訖，奠爵執圭。太官令設饌席前，太子搢圭，食訖，樂止，執圭興，太官令徹饌、爵。

The crown-placer gestured for the crown prince to resume his seat, then went down to the wash basin while the crown-praiser knelt to remove the Cap of Distant Travels, all as before. The attendant bearing the imperial robe-and-crown ascended. The crown-placer stepped down three levels to receive it and advanced to stand north-facing before the crown prince's seat. He pronounced the blessing: "With the third investiture ever more exalted, the foundation of the realm is secured. May your blessings know no bounds; may your house grow ever mighty. Greatly manifest your virtue and preserve this everlasting mandate." He knelt to set the cap as Cheng'an was played. The crown-placer rose. The crown-praiser, as before, knelt to insert the hairpin and tie the cap strings. Inner attendants brought forward his garments; once he was dressed, the music stopped. Ritual officers escorted the crown prince down the eastern steps to music, then up the western steps to take his seat facing south at the ceremonial wine seat; the music stopped. They again led the crown-placer to the wash basin. Music played as he washed and dried his hands, then ascended the western steps; the music ceased. The crown-praiser knelt to take the goblet while inner attendants poured the wine. The crown-placer received it, knelt, and advanced to stand north-facing before the crown prince's seat. He pronounced the blessing: "Fine wine, a worthy offering, richly fragrant. Bow, receive it, and offer it in sacrifice to secure your good fortune. With excellent virtue, long life, and joy; may you advance daily without limit." The crown prince inserted his tablet and knelt to receive the goblet as Zheng'an was played. When he had drunk, he set down the goblet and took up his tablet. The Director of the Imperial Kitchen set food before the seat. The crown prince inserted his tablet and ate; when he had finished, the music stopped. He rose holding his tablet, and the Director removed the food and goblet.

禮直官等引自西階詣東房，易朝服，降立橫街，南北向，東宮官復位，西向。〈（太子初行，樂作，至位，樂止。）〉禮直官等引掌冠、讚冠者詣前，西向，掌冠者少進，字之曰：“始生而名，為實之賓。既冠而字，以益厥文。永受保之，承天之慶。奉敕字某。 ”太常博士請再拜，太子再拜訖，搢笏，舞蹈，再拜，奏聖躬萬福，又再拜。左輔承旨，降自東階，詣太子前，西向，宣曰“有敕”，太子再拜，宣敕曰：“事親以孝，接下以仁。遠佞近義，祿賢使能。古訓是式，大猷是經。 ”宣訖，太子再拜訖，禮直官等引太子前，俯伏，跪，奏稱：“臣雖不敏，敢不祗奉！ ”奏訖，興，復位，再拜訖，引出殿門，樂作，出門，樂止。侍立官並降復位，典儀曰“拜”，讚者承傳，在位者皆再拜。禮儀使奏禮畢，鳴鞭。大樂正令撞蕤賓之鍾，左五鍾皆應，《乾安之樂》作，皇帝降坐，左輔奏解嚴，放仗，在位官皆再拜，退。

Ritual officers escorted him from the western steps to the eastern room to change into court dress, then led him down to stand on the cross street facing south, while Eastern Palace officials returned to their stations facing west. (When the crown prince first set out, music played; when he reached his station, it stopped.) Ritual officers escorted the crown-placers and crown-praisers forward to face west. The crown-placer stepped slightly ahead and bestowed the style-name, saying: "At birth one receives a personal name, as a guest among the living. Once capped one receives a style-name, to augment one's cultivation. May you forever be guarded by it and receive Heaven's blessing. By imperial command, your style-name is [X]. " An academician of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices called for a double bow. The crown prince completed it, inserted his tablet, performed the dance-bow and another double bow, reported that the Son of Heaven enjoyed ten thousand blessings, and bowed again. The Left Assistant received the command, descended the eastern steps, and stood west-facing before the crown prince to announce, "There is an edict." The crown prince double-bowed, and the edict was read: "Serve your parents with filial piety; treat your subordinates with benevolence. Keep sycophants at a distance and draw the righteous near; reward the worthy and employ the capable. Take the teachings of antiquity as your model; make the great design your constant guide." When the proclamation ended, the crown prince completed his double bow. Ritual officers led him forward; he prostrated himself, knelt, and reported: "Though your servant is not clever, how dare he fail to obey reverently! When he had finished, he rose, returned to his place, completed his double bow, and was escorted out through the hall gate to music; once he had left, the music stopped. All attending officials descended and returned to their stations. The master of ceremonies called for a bow; the announcers relayed the command, and everyone in attendance performed a double bow. The master of ceremonies reported that the rite was complete, and a whip was cracked. The Director of Great Music had the rui-bin bell struck, and the five bells to its left chimed in response as Qian'an was played. The emperor rose from his seat; the Left Assistant reported that the vigil was ended and the guard stood down; all officials in attendance performed a double bow and withdrew.

太子入內，朝見皇后，如宮中儀。乃擇日謁太廟、別廟，宿齋於本宮。質明，服遠遊冠、朱明衣，乘金輅。至廟，改服袞冕，執圭行禮，群臣稱賀，皇帝賜酒三行。

The crown prince entered the inner palace and paid his respects to the empress according to the palace rites. A day was then chosen to visit the Grand Ancestral Temple and the subsidiary temples, and he kept an overnight fast in his own palace. At dawn he put on the Cap of Distant Travels and vermilion ceremonial robes and rode in the golden imperial chariot. At the temple he changed into the imperial robe-and-crown, performed the rites holding his tablet, received congratulations from the officials, and was granted three rounds of wine by the emperor.

皇子冠，前期擇日奏告景靈宮，太常設皇子冠席文德殿東階上，稍北東向，設褥席，陳服於席南，東領北上。九旒冕服、七梁進賢冠服、折上巾公服、七梁冠簪導、九旒冕簪導同箱，在服南。設罍洗、酒饌、旒冕、冠、巾及執事者，並如皇太子儀。

For the capping of imperial sons, a day was chosen in advance and a memorial presented to the Jingling Palace. The Court of Imperial Sacrifices placed the capping seat on the eastern steps of the Wende Palace, slightly to the north and facing east, with a cushioned seat and ceremonial dress laid out to its south, aligned east with the leading edge to the north. The nine-tassel crown ensemble, seven-ribbed worthy's cap ensemble, folded kerchief official dress, and the hairpin guides for the seven-ribbed cap and nine-tassel crown were kept in the same case south of the dress. The wine jar, wash basin, wine, food, tasseled crown, caps, kerchief, and attendants were all arranged as in the crown prince ceremony.

其日質明，皇帝通天冠、絳紗袍，禦文德殿。皇子自東房出，內侍二人夾侍，王府官從，《恭安之樂》作，即席南向坐，樂止。掌冠者進折上巾，北向跪冠，《修安之樂》作；讚冠者進，北面跪正冠，皇子興，內侍跪進服訖，樂止。掌冠者揖皇子復坐，以爵跪進，祝曰：“酒醴和旨，籩豆靜嘉。授爾元服，兄弟具來。永言保之，降福孔皆。 ”皇子搢笏，跪受爵，《翼安之樂》作，飲訖，太官令進饌訖。再加七梁冠，《進安之樂》作。掌冠者進爵，祝曰：“賓讚既戒，殽核惟旅。申加厥服，禮儀有序。允觀爾成，承天之祜。 ”皇子跪受爵，《輔安之樂》作，太官奉饌。三加九旒冕，《廣安之樂》作。掌冠者進爵，祝曰：“旨酒嘉栗，甘薦令芳。三加爾服，眉壽無疆。永承天休，俾熾而昌。 ”皇子跪受爵，《賢安》之樂作，太官奉饌，饌徹。

On that day at dawn the emperor wore the Piercing Heaven crown and crimson gauze robe and took his place in the Wende Palace. The imperial son emerged from the eastern room, flanked by two inner attendants with officials of his princely establishment following behind, to the music of Gong'an. He took his seat facing south, and the music stopped. The crown-placer advanced with the folded kerchief and knelt north-facing to set the cap as Xiu'an was played; the crown-praiser stepped forward and knelt north-facing to adjust the cap. The imperial son rose while inner attendants knelt to bring forward his garments; once he was dressed, the music stopped. The crown-placer gestured for the imperial son to resume his seat, then knelt with the goblet and advanced to pronounce the blessing: "The wine and sweet brew are harmonious and fine; the platters and stands are pure and excellent. We confer upon you your first cap; your brothers have all gathered. May you forever guard it; may blessings descend upon you in full measure." The imperial son inserted his tablet and knelt to receive the goblet as Yi'an was played. When he had drunk, the Director of the Imperial Kitchen brought forward the food. For the second investiture he received the seven-ribbed cap as Jin'an was played. The crown-placer advanced with the goblet and pronounced the blessing: "The guest and praiser have both been admonished; the meats and fruits are all laid out. We confer the second cap; the rites proceed in proper order. May we behold your fulfillment; receive Heaven's blessing." The imperial son knelt to receive the goblet as Fu'an was played, and the Director of the Imperial Kitchen presented the food. For the third investiture he received the nine-tassel crown as Guang'an was played. The crown-placer advanced with the goblet and pronounced the blessing: "Fine wine and excellent grain; sweet offerings, fragrant and fine. With the third investiture of your dress, may you enjoy boundless longevity." May you forever receive Heaven's grace; may you flourish and thrive. The imperial son knelt to receive the goblet as 《Xian'an》 was played. The Director of the Imperial Kitchen presented the food, and when the meal was finished it was cleared away.

皇子降，易朝服，立橫階南，北向位，掌冠者字之曰：“歲日雲吉，威儀孔時。昭告厥字，君子攸宜。順爾成德，永受保之。奉敕字某。 ”皇子再拜舞蹈，又再拜，奏聖躬萬福，又再拜。左輔宣敕，戒曰：“好禮樂善，服儒講藝。蕃我王室，友於兄弟。不溢不驕，惟以守之。 ”皇子再拜，進前俯伏，跪稱：“臣雖不敏，敢不祗奉！ ”俯伏，興，復位，再拜，出。殿上侍立官並降，復位，再拜，放仗。明日，百僚詣東上閣門賀。

The imperial son descended, changed into court dress, and took his place south of the cross step, facing north. The crown-placer bestowed his style name, saying: "The year and day are auspicious; your bearing and rites are perfectly timed. We clearly announce your style name, as befits a gentleman. Follow your mature virtue; may you forever be protected. By imperial command, the style-name is [X]. " The imperial son bowed twice with ceremonial dance, bowed again, wished the sovereign ten thousand blessings, and bowed once more. The Left Assistant proclaimed the edict and admonished: "Love ritual, music, and goodness; devote yourself to Confucian learning and the arts. Make our royal house flourish; be a true friend to your brothers. Neither excessive nor arrogant—guard these precepts always. " The imperial son bowed twice, advanced, prostrated himself, and kneeling said: "Though I am unworthy, how dare I not obey reverently! " He prostrated himself, rose, returned to his place, bowed twice, and withdrew. All attendants standing in the hall likewise descended, returned to their places, bowed twice, and the guard staves were dismissed. The next day, all officials went to the Eastern Upper Gate of the Communication Chamber to offer congratulations.

公主笄禮。年十五，雖未議下嫁，亦笄。笄之日，設香案於殿庭；設冠席於東房外，坐東向西；設醴席於西階上，坐西向東；設席位於冠席南，西向。其裙背、大袖長裙、褕翟之衣，各設於椸，陳下庭；冠笄、冠朵、九翬四鳳冠，各置於盤，蒙以帕。首飾隨之，陳於服椸之南，執事者三人掌之。櫛總置於東房。內執事宮嬪盛服旁立，俟樂作，奏請皇帝升御坐，樂止。

The princess hairpin ceremony. At fifteen, even if no marriage had yet been arranged, the hairpin rite was still performed. On the day of the ceremony, an incense table was placed in the hall courtyard; a capping seat was set up outside the eastern room, facing east toward the west; a ceremonial wine seat was placed on the western steps, facing west toward the east; and a seat was placed south of the capping seat, facing west. The skirt-back, wide-sleeved long skirt, and feathered ceremonial robes were each hung on racks and displayed in the lower courtyard; The hairpin cap, cap ornament, and nine-plume four-phoenix crown were each placed on trays and covered with cloth. Head ornaments followed and were displayed south of the garment racks; three attendants were put in charge of them. Comb and hair bindings were placed in the eastern room. Palace ladies serving as inner attendants, dressed in full ceremonial garb, stood by. When the music began they reported requesting the emperor to ascend the throne; the music then stopped.

提舉官奏曰：“公主行笄禮。 ”樂作，讚者引公主入東房。次行尊者為之總髻畢，出，即席西向坐。次引掌冠者東房，西向立，執事奉冠笄以進，掌冠者進前一步受之，進公主席前，北向立，樂止，祝曰：“令月吉日，始加元服。棄爾幼誌，順爾成德。壽考綿鴻，以介景福。 ”祝畢，樂作，東向冠之，冠畢，席南北向立；讚冠者為之正冠，施首飾畢，揖公主適房，樂止。執事者奉裙背入，服畢，樂作，公主就醴席，掌冠者揖公主坐。讚冠者執酒器，執事者酌酒，授於掌冠者執酒，北向立，樂止，祝曰：“酒醴和旨，籩豆靜嘉。受爾元服，兄弟具來。與國同休，降福孔皆。 ”祝畢，樂作，進酒，公主飲畢，讚冠者受酒器，執事者奉饌，食訖，徹饌。

The supervising officer reported: "The princess is performing the hairpin ceremony. " Music played, and the announcer led the princess into the eastern room. Next an elder of rank bound her hair into a bun. When that was done she came out and took her seat facing west. Next the crown-placer was led to the eastern room and stood facing west. Attendants brought forward the hairpin cap; the crown-placer advanced one step to receive it, then moved before the princess's seat and stood facing north. When the music stopped, he pronounced the blessing: "On this auspicious month and day, you first receive your cap and dress. Put aside your childhood ways; follow your mature virtue. May you live long without end and receive great blessings. " When the blessing was finished, music played. He placed the cap on her facing east; when the capping was done, he stood north-facing before the seat; the crown-praiser straightened her cap and applied the head ornaments. When that was done, he gestured for the princess to go to her room, and the music stopped. Attendants brought in the skirt-back. When she was dressed, music played; the princess went to the wine seat, and the crown-placer gestured for her to sit. The crown-praiser held the wine vessel while attendants poured wine and handed it to the crown-placer, who stood facing north. When the music stopped, he pronounced the blessing: "The wine and sweet brew are harmonious and fine; the platters and stands are pure and excellent. Receive your first cap; your brothers have all gathered. Share the realm's peace; may blessings descend upon you in full measure. " When the blessing was finished, music played. Wine was brought forward; when the princess had drunk, the crown-praiser received the vessel. Attendants presented food, and when she had eaten, the food was cleared away.

復引公主至冠席坐，樂止。讚冠者至席前，讚冠者脫冠置於槃，執事者徹去，樂作。執事者奉冠以進，掌冠者進前二步受之，進公主席前，北向立，樂止，祝曰：“吉月令辰，乃申爾服，飾以威儀，淑謹爾德。眉壽永年，享受遐福。 ”祝畢，樂作，東向冠之，冠畢，席南北向立。讚冠者為之正冠，施首飾畢，揖公主適房，樂止。執事奉大袖長裙入，服畢，樂作。公主至醴席，掌冠者揖公主坐。讚冠者執酒器，執事者酌酒，授於掌冠者執酒，北向立，樂止，祝曰：“賓讚既戒，肴核惟旅。申加爾服，禮儀有序。允觀爾成，永天之祜。 ”祝畢，樂作，進酒，公主飲畢，讚冠者受酒器，執事者奉饌食訖，徹饌。

The princess was led back to the capping seat to sit, and the music stopped. The crown-praiser came before the seat, removed the cap and placed it on a tray, and attendants withdrew it as music played. Attendants brought forward the cap; the crown-placer advanced two steps to receive it, then moved before the princess's seat and stood facing north. When the music stopped, he pronounced the blessing: "On this auspicious month and appointed time, we add to your dress; adorn yourself with dignified bearing; be virtuous and careful in your conduct. May you enjoy endless years and far-reaching blessings. " When the blessing was finished, music played. He placed the cap on her facing east, and when that was done he stood north-facing before the seat. The crown-praiser straightened her cap and applied the head ornaments. When that was done, he gestured for the princess to go to her room, and the music stopped. Attendants brought in the wide-sleeved long skirt. When she was dressed, music played. The princess went to the wine seat, and the crown-placer gestured for her to sit. The crown-praiser held the wine vessel while attendants poured wine and handed it to the crown-placer, who stood facing north. When the music stopped, he pronounced the blessing: "The guest and praiser have both been admonished; the meats and fruits are all laid out. We confer the second cap; the rites proceed in proper order. May we behold your fulfillment; receive Heaven's lasting blessing. " When the blessing was finished, music played. Wine was brought forward; when the princess had drunk, the crown-praiser received the vessel. Attendants presented food, and when she had eaten, the food was cleared away.

復引公主至冠席坐，樂作。讚冠者至席前，讚冠者脫冠置於盤，執事者徹去，樂作。執事奉九翬四鳳冠以進，掌冠者進前三步受之，進公主席前，向北而立，樂止，祝曰：“以歲之吉，以月之令，三加爾服，保茲永命。以終厥德，受天之慶。 ”祝畢，樂作，東向冠之，冠畢，席南北向立。讚冠者為之正冠、施首飾畢，揖公主適房，樂止。執事者奉褕翟之衣入，服畢，樂作，公主至醴席，掌冠者揖公主坐。讚冠者執酒器，執事者酌酒，授於掌冠者執酒，北向立，樂止，祝曰：“旨酒嘉薦，有飶其香。鹹加爾服，眉壽無疆。永承天休，俾熾而昌。 ”祝畢，樂作，進酒，公主飲畢，讚冠者受酒器。執事者奉饌，食訖，徹饌。

The princess was led back to the capping seat to sit as music played. The crown-praiser came before the seat, removed the cap and placed it on a tray, and attendants withdrew it as music played. Attendants brought forward the nine-plume four-phoenix crown; the crown-placer advanced three steps to receive it, then moved before the princess's seat and stood facing north. When the music stopped, he pronounced the blessing: "With the year's auspiciousness and the month's proper season, with the third addition to your dress, preserve this eternal mandate. Complete your virtue and receive Heaven's blessing. " When the blessing was finished, music played. He placed the cap on her facing east, and when that was done he stood north-facing before the seat. The crown-praiser straightened her cap and applied the head ornaments. When that was done, he gestured for the princess to go to her room, and the music stopped. Attendants brought in the feathered ceremonial robes. When she was dressed, music played; the princess went to the wine seat, and the crown-placer gestured for her to sit. The crown-praiser held the wine vessel while attendants poured wine and handed it to the crown-placer, who stood facing north. When the music stopped, he pronounced the blessing: "Fine wine and excellent offerings, richly fragrant. With the third investiture of your dress, may you enjoy boundless longevity." May you forever receive Heaven's grace; may you flourish and thrive. When the blessing was finished, music played. Wine was brought forward; when the princess had drunk, the crown-praiser received the vessel. Attendants presented food, and when she had eaten, the food was cleared away.

復引公主至席位立，樂止，掌冠者詣前相對，致辭曰：“歲日具吉，威儀孔時。昭告厥字，令德攸宜。表爾淑美，永保受之。可字曰某。 ”辭訖，樂作，掌冠者退。引公主至君父之前，樂止，再拜起居，謝恩再拜。少俟，提舉進御坐前承旨訖，公主再拜。提舉乃宣訓辭曰：“事親以孝，接下以慈。和柔正順，恭儉謙儀。不溢不驕，毋詖毋欺。古訓是式，爾其守之。 ”宣訖，公主再拜，前奏曰：“兒雖不敏，敢不祗承！ ”歸位再拜，見後母之禮如之。

The princess was led back to her seat to stand, and the music stopped. The crown-placer came forward to face her and delivered the address: "The year and day are fully auspicious; your bearing and rites are perfectly timed. We clearly announce your style name, as your excellent virtue requires. Display your graceful beauty; may you forever be protected. Your style-name shall be [X]. " When the address was finished, music played and the crown-placer withdrew. The princess was led before her sovereign father. When the music stopped, she bowed twice and reported her well-being, then bowed twice again in thanks for the imperial grace. After a brief wait, the supervising officer advanced before the imperial throne and received the decree. When that was done, the princess bowed twice. The supervising officer then proclaimed the instructional address: "Serve your parents with filial piety; treat those below you with kindness. Be gentle, compliant, upright, and obedient; be respectful, frugal, and modest in bearing. Neither excessive nor arrogant; neither slander nor deceit. Take the ancient precepts as your model and guard them well. " When the proclamation was finished, the princess bowed twice, advanced, and reported: "Though I am unworthy, how dare I not accept reverently! " She returned to her place and bowed twice. The rites for greeting the empress were performed in the same way.

禮畢，公主復坐，皇后稱賀，次妃嬪稱賀，次掌冠、讚冠者謝恩，次提舉眾內臣稱賀，其餘班次稱賀，並依常式。禮畢，樂作；駕興，樂止。

When the rites were complete, the princess resumed her seat. The empress offered congratulations, then the consorts and concubines, then the crown-placer and crown-praiser thanked the court for the grace, then the supervising officer and all inner attendants offered congratulations. The remaining ranks offered congratulations as well—all according to usual form. When the rites were complete, music played; the imperial palanquin was raised, and the music stopped.

公主下降。初被選尚者即拜駙馬都尉，賜玉帶、襲衣、銀鞍勒馬、采羅百匹，謂之係親。又賜辦財銀萬兩，進財之數，倍於親王聘禮。出降，賜甲第。餘如諸王夫人之製。掌扇加四，引障花、燭籠各加十，皆行舅姑之禮。諸親遞加賜賚。其縣主係親以金帶，賜辦財銀五千兩，納財賜賚，大率三分減其二。宗室女特封郡君者，又差降焉。

Princess marriage. As soon as a man was chosen to marry a princess, he was appointed Commandant Escort of the Heir Apparent and granted a jade belt, ceremonial robe, silver saddle and bridled horse, and a hundred bolts of colored silk. This was called tying the kinship bond. Wedding preparation funds of ten thousand taels of silver were also granted, and the quantity of marriage gifts was double that of an imperial prince's betrothal gifts. Upon leaving the palace in marriage, a finest-tier mansion was granted. Everything else followed the regulations for imperial princes' consorts. Four ceremonial fans were added, along with ten each of flower screens and candle lanterns, and all performed the rites toward parents-in-law. Relatives by marriage received additional gifts in succession. For county princesses, the kinship bond used a gold belt and wedding preparation funds of five thousand taels of silver were granted; marriage gifts and rewards were generally reduced by two-thirds. For clanswomen specially enfeoffed as Ladies of a Commandery, the benefits were reduced still further.

嘉祐初，禮官言：“禮閣新儀，公主出降前一日，行五禮。古者，結婚始用行人，告以夫家采擇之意，謂之納采。問女之名，歸卜夫廟，吉，以告女家，謂之問名、納吉。今選尚一出朝廷，不待納采。公主封爵已行誕告，不待問名。若納成則既有進財，請期則有司擇日。宜稍依五禮之名，存其物數，俾知婚姻之事重、而夫婦之際嚴如此，亦不忘古禮之義也。 ”時兗國公主下嫁李瑋，詔賜出降日，令夫家主婚者具合用雁、幣、玉、馬等物，陳於內東門外，以授內謁者，進入內侍掌事者受，唯馬不入。

In the early Jiayou era, ritual officials said: "According to the new ritual code in the Ceremonial Archive, one day before a princess left the palace in marriage, the five marriage rites were performed. In antiquity, marriage began when emissaries were sent to inform the bride's family of the groom's family's intention to select a match. This was called presenting the initial gift. The bride's name was asked, divination was performed at the groom's ancestral temple, and if the result was auspicious the bride's family was informed. This was called asking the name and presenting the auspicious sign. Now the selection and marriage assignment come solely from the court, without waiting for the initial gift. The princess's enfeoffment and rank announcement had already been promulgated, without waiting to ask her name. For presenting the marriage gift, marriage gifts were already brought; for setting the date, the relevant offices chose the day. It would be appropriate to follow somewhat the names of the five rites and preserve their ritual objects and quantities, so that people would know how weighty marriage is and how solemn the bond between husband and wife ought to be—and so the meaning of the ancient rites would not be forgotten. " At that time, when the Princess of Yan'guo married Li Wei, an edict fixed the day of her departure from the palace and ordered the groom's family, represented by the officiating host, to prepare the requisite wild geese, silks, jade, horses, and other items, display them outside the Inner Eastern Gate, and present them to the inner ushers to be delivered to the chief inner attendant. Only the horses did not enter.

康國公主下降，太常寺言：“按令，公主出降，申中書省，請皇后帥宮闈掌事人送至第外，命婦從，今請如令。 ”詔：“出降日，婉儀帥宮闈掌事者送至第外，命婦免從。”

When the Princess of Kangguo left the palace in marriage, the Court of Imperial Sacrifices said: "According to regulations, when a princess left the palace in marriage, memorial was submitted to the Secretariat and the empress was requested to lead palace attendants to escort her to outside the mansion, with lady companions following. We now request to follow the regulations. " An edict responded: "On the day of departure from the palace, a Lady of Handsome Fairness shall lead palace attendants to escort her to outside the mansion; lady companions are exempt from following.

徽宗改公主為姬，下詔曰：“在熙寧初，有詔厘改公主、郡主、縣主名稱，當時群臣不克奉承。近命有司稽考前世，周稱‘王姬’，見於《詩•雅》。 ‘姬’雖周姓，考古立製，宜莫如周。可改公主為帝姬、郡主為宗姬、縣主為族姬。其稱大長者，為大長帝姬，仍以美名二字易其國號，內兩國者以四字。”

Emperor Huizong changed the title princess to ji and issued an edict saying: "In the early Xining era, there was an edict to reform the titles of princess, commandery princess, and county princess, but the ministers at the time could not carry it out. Recently I ordered the relevant offices to examine former ages. The Zhou called them 'king's daughters,' as seen in the Greater Odes section of the 《Book of Songs》. Although ji is a Zhou surname, when we examine antiquity to establish institutions, none is as fitting as the Zhou model. Princess may be renamed emperor's daughter, commandery princess renamed lineage daughter, and county princess renamed clan daughter. Those styled grand-elder became grand-elder emperor's daughters; the two-character elegant name still replaced their state title, and those bearing two state names used four characters.

其出降日，婿家具五禮，修表如上儀。太史局擇日告廟。

On the day she left the palace in marriage, the groom's family prepared the five rites and drew up a memorial according to the ritual above. The Astrological Bureau chose an auspicious day and notified the ancestral temple.

親迎。前一日，所司於內東門外量地之宜，西向設婿次。其日，婿父醮子如上儀。乃命之曰：“往迎肅雍，以昭惠宗祏。 ”子再拜，曰：“祗率嚴命！ ”又再拜，降，出乘馬，至東華門內下馬，禮直官引就次。有司陳帝姬鹵簿、儀仗於內東門外，候將升厭翟車，引婿出次於內東門外，躬身西向。掌事者執雁，內謁者奉雁以進，俟帝姬升車，婿再拜，先還第。

Personally welcoming the bride. On the day before, the relevant offices measured suitable ground outside the Inner Eastern Gate and set up the groom's pavilion facing west. On that day, the groom's father performed the libation for his son according to the ritual above. He then charged him, saying: "Go to welcome her with solemn grace, to show favor to the ancestral tablets. " The son bowed twice and said: "I respectfully accept your solemn charge! " He bowed twice again, descended, went out and mounted a horse. Upon reaching inside the Eastern Flowery Gate he dismounted, and the ritual officer led him to the pavilion. The relevant offices displayed the emperor's daughter's guard of honor and ceremonial insignia outside the Inner Eastern Gate. When she was about to ascend the black-lacquered pheasant carriage, they led the groom out from the pavilion to outside the Inner Eastern Gate, where he bowed facing west. The chief attendant held the wild goose; the inner usher presented it and advanced. When the emperor's daughter had mounted the carriage, the groom bowed twice and returned first to his residence.

同牢。其日初昏，掌事者設巾、洗各二於東階東南，一於室北。水在洗東，尊於室中，實四爵、兩巹於篚。婿至本第，下馬以俟。帝姬至，降車，讚者引婿揖之以入，及寢門又揖，導之升階，入室盥洗。掌事者布對位，又揖帝姬，皆即坐受盞三飲，俱興，再拜，讚者徹酒。

Sharing the sacrificial feast. At early dusk that day, the chief attendant set out two cloths and two basins at the southeast of the eastern steps, and one at the north of the chamber. Water was placed east of the basin, a wine vessel in the chamber, and four cups and two nuptial cups filled in the basket. The groom arrived at his residence, dismounted, and waited. When the emperor's daughter arrived, she descended from the carriage. The announcer led the groom to bow to her and enter; at the bedroom gate he bowed again and guided him up the steps to enter the chamber and wash. The chief attendant arranged facing seats and bowed again to the emperor's daughter. Both took their seats, received cups and drank three times, then both rose and bowed twice as the announcer cleared the wine.

見舅姑。夙興，帝姬著花釵、服褕翟以俟見。讚者設舅姑位於堂上，舅位於東，姑位於西，各服其服就位。女相者引帝姬升自西階，詣舅位前再拜，讚者以棗栗授帝姬奉置舅位前，舅即坐，讚者進徹以東，帝姬退，復位，又再拜。女相者引詣姑位前再拜，讚者以腶修授帝姬奉置姑位前，姑即坐，讚者亦徹以東，帝姬退，復位，又再拜。次醴婦、盥饋、饗婦如儀。

Meeting the father-in-law and mother-in-law. At dawn she rose early; the emperor's daughter put on flower hairpins and wore the bordered pheasant robe to await the meeting. The announcer set seats for the father-in-law and mother-in-law in the hall—the father-in-law's seat in the east, the mother-in-law's in the west—each in appropriate dress and taking their positions. The lady attendant led the emperor's daughter up the western steps to bow twice before the father-in-law's seat. The announcer handed her dates and chestnuts, which she reverently placed before his seat. The father-in-law took his seat; the announcer advanced and cleared them eastward. The emperor's daughter withdrew, returned to her position, and bowed twice again. The lady attendant led her before the mother-in-law's seat to bow twice. The announcer handed her preserved meat, which she reverently placed before the mother-in-law's seat. The mother-in-law took her seat; the announcer also cleared them eastward. The emperor's daughter withdrew, returned to her position, and bowed twice again. Next came presenting wine to the bride, washing and offering food, and feasting the bride, all according to ritual.

諸王納妃。宋朝之製，諸王聘禮，賜女家白金萬兩。敲門，〈（即古之納采。）〉用羊二十口、酒二十壺、彩四十匹。定禮，羊、酒、彩各加十，茗百斤，頭{須巾}巾段、綾、絹三十匹，黃金釵釧四雙，條脫一副，真珠虎珀瓔珞、真珠翠毛玉釵朵各二副，銷金生色衣各一襲，金塗銀合二，錦繡綾羅三百匹，果槃、花粉、花冪、眠羊臥鹿花餅、銀勝、小色金銀錢等物。納財，用金器百兩、彩千匹、錢五十萬、錦綺、綾、羅、絹各三百匹，銷金繡畫衣十襲，真珠翠毛玉釵朵各三副，函書一架纏束帛，押馬函馬二十匹，羊五十口，酒五十壺，係羊酒紅絹百匹，花粉、花冪、果盤、銀勝、羅勝等物。親迎，用塗金銀裝肩輿一，行障、坐障各一，方團掌扇四，引障花十樹，生色燭籠十，高髻釵插並童子八人騎分左右導扇輿。其宗室子聘禮，賜女家白金五千兩。其敲門、定禮、納財、親迎禮皆減半，遠屬族卑者又減之。

Princes taking brides. Under Song regulations, for princes' betrothal gifts, ten thousand taels of white gold were granted to the bride's family. Knocking at the door, (This is the ancient rite of presenting the initial gift.) Twenty sheep, twenty jars of wine, and forty bolts of colored silk were used. For fixing the betrothal gift, ten each were added to the sheep, wine, and colored silk, along with a hundred jin of tea; thirty bolts of headcloth sections, damask, and silk; four pairs of gold hairpins and bracelets; one set of armlets; two sets each of pearl, amber, and coral necklaces and pearl, kingfisher-feather, and jade hair ornaments; one set each of gold-trimmed ceremonial robes; two gold-plated silver cases; three hundred bolts of brocade, embroidery, damask, and gauze; and fruit platters, powdered cosmetics, floral veils, reclining-sheep and recumbent-deer flower cakes, silver victory ornaments, small-colored gold and silver coins, and other such items. For presenting marriage wealth, there were a hundred taels of gold vessels, a thousand bolts of colored silk, five hundred thousand coins, and three hundred bolts each of brocade, damask, gauze, and silk; ten sets of gold-trimmed embroidered robes; three sets each of pearl, kingfisher-feather, and jade hair ornaments; one case of documents wrapped in silk; twenty horses to accompany the document case; fifty sheep; fifty jars of wine; a hundred bolts of red silk binding the sheep and wine; powdered cosmetics, floral veils, fruit platters, silver victory ornaments, gauze victory ornaments, and other such items. For personally welcoming the bride, there was one shoulder-borne palanquin with gold and silver ornamentation; one traveling screen and one seated screen; four square and round hand fans; ten trees of guiding-screen flowers; ten colored candle lanterns; and eight pages with high topknots, hairpins, and plumes riding on either side to guide the fan palanquin. For imperial clansmen's betrothal gifts, five thousand taels of white gold were granted to the bride's family. The rites of knocking at the door, fixing the betrothal gift, presenting marriage wealth, and personally welcoming the bride were all reduced by half; for distant collateral kin of lower rank they were reduced further still.

政和三年四月，議禮局上皇子納夫人儀：

In the fourth month of the third year of Zhenghe, the Bureau for Discussing Ritual submitted the ceremony for a prince taking a principal wife:

采擇。使者曰：“奉制，某王之儷，屬子懿淑。謹之重之，使某行采擇之禮。 ”儐者入告，主人曰：“臣某之子顓愚，不足以備采擇，恭承製命，臣某不敢辭。”

Selecting and choosing. The envoy said: "By imperial command, the consort of Prince So-and-so belongs to a family of fine virtue and gentle conduct. I treat this with the utmost reverence, and am sent to perform the rite of selection and choice. " The usher entered to report; the host said: "My son So-and-so is dull and foolish, unworthy to be chosen. Reverently accepting the imperial command, your subject So-and-so dares not decline.

問名。使者曰：“某王之儷，采擇既諧。將加官占，奉制問名。 ”儐者入告，主人曰：“製以臣某之子，可以奉侍某王，臣某不敢辭。”

Asking the name. The envoy said: "The consort of Prince So-and-so—selection and choice are already in accord. Official divination will now be performed; by imperial command I ask the name. " The usher entered to report; the host said: "By imperial command my son So-and-so may serve Prince So-and-so; your subject So-and-so dares not decline.

告吉。使者曰：“官占既吉，奉制以告。 ”儐者入告，主人曰：“臣某之子，愚弗克堪。占貺之吉，臣與有幸。臣某謹奉典制。”

Announcing the auspicious sign. The envoy said: "Official divination is already auspicious; by imperial command I announce it. " The usher entered to report; the host said: "My son So-and-so is foolish and cannot bear the burden. That divination has granted an auspicious sign—your subject shares in good fortune. Your subject So-and-so reverently accepts the canonical regulations.

告成。使者曰：“官占雲吉，嘉偶既定，製使某以儀物告成。 ”儐者入告，主人曰：“奉制賜臣以重禮，臣某謹奉典制。”

Announcing completion. The envoy said: "Official divination declares the match auspicious; the fine union is now settled; by imperial command I am sent to announce completion with ritual objects. " The usher entered to report; the host said: "By imperial command I am granted heavy gifts; your subject So-and-so reverently accepts the canonical regulations.

告期。使者曰：“涓辰之良，某月某日吉，製使某告期。 ”儐者入告，主人曰：“臣某謹奉典制。 ”前期，太史局擇日，奏告景靈宮。

Announcing the date. The envoy said: "The chosen day is fine—such-and-such month, such-and-such day is auspicious; by imperial command I am sent to announce the date. " The usher entered to report; the host said: "Your subject So-and-so reverently accepts the canonical regulations. " In advance, the Astrological Bureau chose the day and memorialized to announce it at the Jingling Palace.

賜告。前一日，主人設使者次，如常儀，〈（使者以內侍為之。）〉又設告箱之次於中門外，北向，隨闕所向，設香案於寢庭。其日大昕，使者公服至，主人出迎於大門外，北向再拜，使者不答拜。謁者引使者入門而左，主人入門而右，舉告箱者同入。主人立香案左，使者在右，舉告箱者以告置於香案。女相者引夫人出，麵闕立，使者稱有制，女相者讚再拜，使者曰：“賜某國夫人告。 ”又讚再拜，退，使者出。

Bestowing the announcement. On the day before, the host set up the envoy's pavilion according to the usual ritual, (The envoy was an inner attendant.) And also set up the announcement-case pavilion outside the middle gate facing north, according to the direction of the palace gap. An incense table was set in the inner courtyard. At dawn that day, the envoy arrived in official dress. The host went out to welcome him outside the great gate, bowed twice facing north, and the envoy did not return the bow. The usher led the envoy in through the gate to the left; the host entered through the gate to the right; and the bearer of the announcement case entered together with them. The host stood to the left of the incense table, the envoy to the right. The bearer of the announcement case placed the announcement on the incense table. The lady attendant led the lady out; she faced the palace gap and stood. The envoy declared that there was an imperial command; the lady attendant prompted her to bow twice. The envoy said: "I bestow the announcement of Lady of Such-and-such State. " She was prompted to bow twice again, withdrew, and the envoy departed.

皇帝醮戒於所禦之殿，皇子乘象輅親迎。同牢、夫人朝見、盥饋、皇帝皇后饗夫人如儀。其諸王以下：

The emperor performed the ablution and fast in the hall where he resided; the prince rode the elephant carriage to personally welcome the bride. Sharing the sacrificial feast, the lady's audience, washing and offering food, and the emperor and empress feasting the lady all followed according to ritual. For princes and those below:

納采。賓曰：“某官以伉儷之重，施於某王，〈（某官謂主人，某王謂婿。）〉某王率循彝典，以某將事，敢請納采。” 〈（某王謂婿父，某謂賓。）〉儐者入告，主人曰：“某之子弗閑於姆訓，維是腶修、棗栗之饋，未知所以告虔也。某聽命於廟，敢不拜嘉。”

Presenting the initial gift. The guest said: "Official So-and-so, considering the weight of marriage, applies it to Prince So-and-so, (Official So-and-so refers to the host; Prince So-and-so refers to the groom.) Prince So-and-so follows the canonical rites, and with So-and-so as envoy I venture to request presenting the initial gift. (Prince So-and-so refers to the groom's father; So-and-so refers to the guest.) The usher entered to report; the host said: "My son So-and-so is not versed in the matron's instruction; only this offering of preserved meat, dates, and chestnuts—I do not know how to declare my reverence. So-and-so receives the charge at the ancestral temple; how could I fail to bow in acceptance of this favor?

問名。賓曰：“合二姓之好，必稽諸龜筮，敢請問名。 ”儐者入告，主人曰：“某王恭謹，重正昏禮，將以加諸卜，某敢不以告。”

Asking the name. The guest said: "To unite the good of two surnames, one must consult the tortoise and yarrow; I venture to ask the name. " The usher entered to report; the host said: "Prince So-and-so is reverent and careful, attaching weight to the proper marriage rite; it will be submitted to divination—So-and-so dares not fail to report it.

納吉。賓曰：“某王承嘉命，稽諸卜筮，龜筮協從，使某以告。 ”儐者入告，主人曰：“某王不忘寒素，欲施德於某未教之女，而卜以吉告，其曷敢辭。”

Presenting the auspicious sign. The guest said: "Prince So-and-so has received a fine command; consulting divination by tortoise and yarrow, both agree in accord; So-and-so is sent to announce it. " The usher entered to report; the host said: "Prince So-and-so does not forget humble origins and wishes to extend virtue to my untaught daughter; divination has returned an auspicious report—how could I dare decline?

納成。賓曰：“某官以伉儷之重，施於某王，某王，〈（上謂婿，下謂婿父。）〉率循彝典，有不腆之幣，以某將事，敢請納成。 ”儐者入告，主人曰：“某王順彝典，申之以備物，某敢不重拜嘉。”

Presenting completion. The guest said: "Official So-and-so, considering the weight of marriage, applies it to Prince So-and-so, Prince So-and-so, (The first refers to the groom; the second refers to the groom's father.) Follows the canonical rites; with unworthy gifts, with So-and-so as envoy I venture to request presenting completion. " The usher entered to report; the host said: "Prince So-and-so follows the canonical rites and supplements them with complete goods; So-and-so dares not fail to bow deeply in acceptance of this favor.

請期。賓曰：“某王謹重嘉禮，將卜諸近日，使某請期。 ”儐者入告，主人再辭。儐者出告，賓曰：“某既不獲受命於某官，某王得吉卜曰某日，敢不以告。 ”儐者入告，主人曰：“謹奉命以從。”

Requesting the date. The guest said: "Prince So-and-so reverently esteems the auspicious rite and will seek divination for a date in the near future; So-and-so is sent to request the date. " The usher entered to report; the host declined again. The usher went out to report; the guest said: "Since So-and-so did not receive authorization from Official So-and-so, Prince So-and-so obtained an auspicious divination naming such-and-such a day—I dare not fail to announce it. " The usher entered to report; the host said: "I respectfully accept the command and will comply.

親迎。前一日，主人設賓次，〈（賓謂婿。）〉如常儀。其日大昕，婿之父服其服，告於禰廟，〈（無廟者設神位於廳東，不應設位者不設。）〉子將行，父醮之於廳事。讚者設父位中間，南向，設子位父位之西，近南，東向。父即坐，子公服升自西階，進立位前。讚者注酒於盞，西向授子，子再拜，跪受，讚者又設饌父位前，子舉酒興，即坐飲食訖，降，再拜，進立於父位前。命之曰：“躬迎嘉偶，厘爾內治。 ”子再拜，曰：“敢不奉命。 ”又再拜，降出，詣女家。主人服其服，告於禰廟，如請期之儀。賓將至，主人設神位於寢戶外之西，設醴女位於戶內，南向，具酒饌。賓至，讚者引就次，女盛服於房中，就位南向立，姆位於右，從者陪其後。父公服升自東階，立於寢戶外之東，西向。內讚者設酒饌，女就位坐，飲食訖，降，再拜，內讚者徹酒饌。主人降立東階東南，西面，讚者引賓出次，立於門西，東面，儐者進受命，出請事，賓曰：“某受命於父，以茲嘉禮，躬聽成命。 ”儐者入告，主人曰：“某固願從命。 ”儐者出告訖，入引主人迎賓大門外之東，西面揖賓，賓報揖。主人入門而右，賓入門而左，執雁者從入，陳雁於庭，三分庭，一在南，北向。主人升立於東階上，西面；賓升西階進，當寢戶前，北面再拜，降出，主人不降送。賓初入門，母出，立於寢戶外之西，南面，賓拜訖，姆引女出於母左，父命之曰：“往之汝家，以順為正，無忘肅恭！ ”母戒之曰：“必恭必戒，無違舅姑之命！ ”庶母申之曰：“爾誠聽於訓言，無作父母羞！ ”女出門，婿先還第。

Fetching the bride in person. On the day before, the host set up the guest pavilion, (The guest refers to the groom.) Following the usual procedure. On that day at broad dawn, the groom's father dressed in his proper attire and announced at the temple of the immediate forebear, (Where there is no ancestral temple, a spirit seat is set in the east of the hall; where a seat should not be set, none is set.) When the son was about to depart, the father performed the parting libation for him in the reception hall. The announcer set the father's seat in the center, facing south; the son's seat was set west of the father's seat, near the south, facing east. The father took his seat; the son in official dress ascended by the western steps and advanced to stand before his seat. The announcer poured wine into a cup and, facing west, handed it to the son; the son bowed twice, knelt to receive it; the announcer also set food before the father's seat; the son raised his cup in pledge, then sat, ate and drank to completion, descended, bowed twice, and advanced to stand before the father's seat. He charged him, saying: "Go in person to fetch your fine match and put your inner household in order. " The son bowed twice and said: "How could I dare not accept the command? " He bowed twice again, descended and departed, and went to the bride's home. The host dressed in his proper attire and announced at the temple of the immediate forebear, following the procedure for requesting the date. When the guest was about to arrive, the host set a spirit seat west of the outer door of the bedchamber, set the bride's ceremonial seat for sweet wine inside the door facing south, and prepared wine and food. When the guest arrived, the announcer led him to the pavilion; the bride in full dress was in the inner room, took her place standing facing south; the instructress stood to her right, and attendants followed behind. The father in formal dress ascended by the eastern steps and stood east of the outer door of the bedchamber, facing west. The inner announcer set out wine and food; the bride took her seat, ate and drank to completion, descended, and bowed twice; the inner announcer removed the wine and food. The host descended and stood southeast of the eastern steps, facing west; the announcer led the guest out of the pavilion to stand west of the gate, facing east; the usher advanced to receive instructions, went out to ask about the matter, and the guest said: "So-and-so has received a command from his father and, by this auspicious rite, comes in person to await the completion of the charge. " The usher entered to report; the host said: "So-and-so has long wished to comply with the command. " When the usher had finished reporting and went out, he led the host to receive the guest east of the outer gate; facing west, the host bowed with joined hands to the guest, and the guest returned the bow. The host entered the gate and turned right; the guest entered and turned left; the bearer of the wild geese followed in; the geese were displayed in the courtyard, the courtyard divided in three, one portion in the south, facing north. The host ascended and stood on the eastern steps, facing west; the guest ascended the western steps, advanced to stand before the bedchamber door, bowed twice facing north, descended and departed; the host did not descend to see him off. When the guest first entered the gate, the mother came out and stood west of the outer door of the bedchamber, facing south; when the guest's bow was finished, the instructress led the bride out to the mother's left; the father charged her, saying: "Go to your husband's home, take compliance as your standard, and do not forget reverent respect! " The mother admonished her, saying: "Be ever reverent and ever careful, and do not disobey the commands of your parents-in-law! " The concubine mother reiterated: "Truly heed the words of instruction and do not bring shame upon your parents! " The bride went out the gate; the groom returned to his residence first.

其同牢、廟見、見舅姑諸禮，皆如儀。

The rites of sharing the wedding feast, temple presentation, and meeting the parents-in-law all followed the prescribed procedure.

凡宗室婚姻，治平中，宗正司言：“宗室女舅姑、夫族未立儀製，皆當創法。 ”詔：“婿家有二世食祿，即許娶宗室女，未仕者與判、司、簿、尉，已任者隨資序推恩。即婿別祖、女別房，舊為婚姻而於今卑尊不順者，皆許。婿之三代、鄉貫、生月、人材書劄，止令婚主問驗，以告宗正寺、大宗正司，寺、司詳視，如條保明。所進財皆賜婿家，令止於本宮納財，媒妁、使令之人，非理求匄，許告。宗室女事舅姑及見夫之族親，皆如臣庶之家。 ”其後又令宗室女再嫁者，祖、父有二代任殿直若州縣官已上，即許為婚姻。

As for imperial clansmen's marriages, in the Zhiping era the Chief of the Imperial Clan Bureau said: "For imperial clanswomen's parents-in-law and the husband's kin, no ritual regulations have yet been established; new rules should all be created. " An edict stated: "If the groom's family has received stipends for two generations, they may marry an imperial clanswoman; those not yet in office are matched with assistant prefects, section chiefs, clerks, and county captains; those already in office receive favor according to their rank in seniority. Even where the groom belongs to a different line of descent and the woman to a different branch, former marriage ties that today violate proper order of senior and junior are all permitted. Written records of the groom's three generations, native place, birth month, and personal qualities are to be examined only by the marriage sponsor and reported to the Imperial Clan Court and the Chief Imperial Clan Bureau; the court and bureau review them in detail and certify according to the regulations. All wealth presented is granted to the groom's family; orders were issued that wealth be accepted only at the bride's palace residence; matchmakers and attendants who made unreasonable demands were permitted to report it. Imperial clanswomen's service to parents-in-law and meeting the husband's kinsmen all follow commoners' households. " Later it was further ordered that for imperial clanswomen remarrying, if grandfather and father had held office for two generations as palace guardsmen or as county and prefectural officials or higher, marriage was permitted.

熙寧十年，又詔：“應袒免以上親不得與雜類之家婚嫁，謂舅嚐為仆、姑嚐為娼者。若父母係化外及見居沿邊兩屬之人，其子孫亦不許為婚。緦麻以上親不得與諸司胥吏出職、納粟得官及進納伎術、工商、雜類、惡逆之家子孫通婚。〈（後又禁刑徒人子孫為婚。）〉應婚嫁者委主婚宗室，擇三代有任州縣官或殿直以上者，列姓名、家世、州裏、歲數奏上，宗正司驗實召保，付內侍省宣係，聽期而行。嫁女則令其婿召保。其冒妄成婚者，以違製論。主婚宗室與媒保同坐，不以赦降，自首者減罪，告者有賞。非袒免親者依庶姓法。宗室離婚，委宗正司審察，若於律有可出之實或不相安，方聽。若無故捃拾者，劾奏。如許聽離，追完賜予物，給還嫁資。再娶者不給賜。非袒免以上親與夫聽離，再嫁者委宗正司審核。其恩澤已追奪而乞與後夫者，降一等。 ”尋詔：“宗女毋得與嚐娶人結婚，再適者不用此法。”

In the tenth year of the Xining reign, another edict stated: "Relatives within the degree of mourning with bared shoulder and loose cap must not marry into or with miscellaneous households—meaning cases where an uncle on the mother's side was once a servant or an aunt on the father's side was once a courtesan. If parents were connected to foreign lands or to people currently dwelling on both sides of the borderlands, their descendants were also not permitted to marry. Relatives within the fifth-degree mourning may not intermarry with descendants of clerks who had left office from various bureaus, those who gained office by presenting grain, those who gained entry by presenting technical skills, or households of artisans, merchants, miscellaneous classes, and grave misconduct. (Later, marriage with descendants of convict laborers was also forbidden.) Those eligible to marry were entrusted to the presiding clansman; he selected someone from three generations who had held county or prefectural office or been a palace guardsman or higher, listed name, family background, native district, and age, and submitted a memorial; the Imperial Clan Bureau verified the facts and summoned guarantors, handed the matter to the Inner Service Directorate for notification, and allowed the marriage to proceed on the appointed date. When marrying off a daughter, the groom was ordered to summon guarantors. Those who rashly completed marriage in violation were prosecuted for breach of regulations. The presiding clansman and matchmakers and guarantors shared punishment; amnesties did not apply; self-confession reduced the penalty; informants received reward. Those outside the bared-shoulder-and-cap degree of mourning followed commoners' law. Imperial clansmen's divorce was entrusted to the Imperial Clan Bureau for investigation; only if there were lawful grounds for repudiation under statute or the couple could not live in harmony was it permitted. If someone groundlessly gathered accusations, impeachment was filed. If divorce was permitted, granted gifts were fully recovered and dowry returned. Remarriage did not receive grants. Those outside the bared-shoulder-and-cap degree who divorced from their husbands and remarried were reviewed by the Imperial Clan Bureau. If favor already revoked was requested for a later husband, it was reduced one grade. " Soon an edict stated: "Imperial clanswomen must not marry men who have once taken a wife; remarried women are not subject to this law.

品官婚禮。納采、問名、納吉、納成、請期、親迎、同牢、廟見、見舅姑、姑醴婦、盥饋、饗婦、送者，並如諸王以下婚。四品以下不用盥饋、饗婦禮。

Wedding rites for ranked officials. Initial gift presentation, asking the name, presenting the auspicious sign, presenting completion, requesting the date, fetching the bride, sharing the wedding feast, temple presentation, meeting the parents-in-law, the mother-in-law's ceremonial wine to the bride, hand-washing and serving food, entertaining the bride, and escorting the bride—all followed weddings for imperial princes and those below them. Officials of the fourth rank and below did not use the hand-washing-and-serving or entertaining-the-bride rites.

士庶人婚禮。並問名於納采，並請期於納成。其無雁奠者，三舍生聽用羊，庶人聽以雉及雞鶩代。其辭稱“吾子”。

Wedding rites for scholars and commoners. Asking the name was combined with initial gift presentation; requesting the date was combined with presenting completion. Where there was no wild-goose offering, students of the Three Halls were permitted to use a sheep; commoners were permitted to substitute pheasant and domestic fowl. In the formulae they said "my son."

親迎。質明，掌事者設禰位廳事東間，南向。婿之父服其服，北面再拜，祝曰：“某子某，年若干，禮宜有室，聘某氏第幾女，以某日親迎，敢告。 ”子將行，父坐廳事，南向，子服其服，〈（三舍生及品官子孫假九品服，餘並皂衫衣、折上巾。）〉立父位西，少南，東向。讚者注酒於盞授子，子再拜，跪受，讚者又以饌設位前，子舉酒興，即坐飲食訖，降，再拜，進立父位前，命之曰：“厘爾內治，往求爾匹。 ”子再拜，曰：“敢不奉命。 ”又再拜，降出。

Fetching the bride in person. At first light, the officer in charge set the seat of the immediate forebear in the eastern side room of the reception hall, facing south. The groom's father dressed in his proper attire, bowed twice facing north, and prayed: "So-and-so's son So-and-so, aged such-and-such, ought by rite to take a wife; betrothed to such-and-such daughter of the Such-and-such clan, on such-and-such a day he fetches the bride in person—I dare announce it. " When the son was about to depart, the father sat in the reception hall facing south; the son dressed in his proper attire, (Students of the Three Halls and descendants of ranked officials wore the dress of the ninth rank by temporary authorization; all others wore black robes and folded-up caps.) Stood west of the father's seat, slightly to the south, facing east. The announcer poured wine into a cup and handed it to the son; the son bowed twice, knelt to receive it; the announcer also set food before the seat; the son raised his cup in pledge, then sat, ate and drank to completion, descended, bowed twice, advanced to stand before the father's seat; the father charged him, saying: "Put your inner household in order; go seek your match. " The son bowed twice and said: "How could I dare not accept the command? " He bowed twice again and descended to depart.

初婚，掌事者設酒饌室中，置二盞於槃，婿服其服如前服，至女家，讚者引就次，掌事者設禰位，主人受禮，如請期之儀。〈（主人謂女父。）〉女盛服立房中，父升階立房外之東，西向。〈（非南向者，各隨其所向。父立於門外之左，餘放此。）〉讚者注酒於盞授女，女再拜受盞；讚者又以饌設於位前，女即坐飲食訖，降，再拜。父降立東階下，賓出次，〈（賓謂婿。）〉主人迎於門，揖賓入，賓報揖，從入。主人升東階，西面；賓升西階，進當房戶前，北面。掌事者陳雁於階，賓曰：“某受命於父，以茲嘉禮，躬聽成命。 ”主人曰：“某固願從命。 ”賓再拜，降出，主人不降送。初，女出，父戒之曰：“往之汝家，無忘肅恭！ ”母戒之曰：“夙夜以思，無有違命！ ”諸母申之曰：“無違爾父母之訓！ ”女出，婿先還，俟於門外。婦至，讚者引就北面立，婿南面，揖以入，至於室。掌事者設對位室中，婿婦皆即坐，讚者注酒於盞授婿及婦，婿及婦受盞飲訖。遂設饌，再飲、三飲，並如上儀。婿及婦皆興，再拜，讚者徹酒饌。

For a first marriage, the officer in charge set wine and food in the room and placed two cups on a tray; the groom dressed as before, went to the bride's home; the announcer led him to the pavilion; the officer in charge set the seat of the immediate forebear; the host received the rite following the procedure for requesting the date. (The host refers to the bride's father.) The bride in full dress stood in the inner room; the father ascended the steps and stood east outside the room, facing west. (Where rooms did not face south, each followed its own orientation. The father stood to the left outside the door; the rest followed this pattern.) The announcer poured wine into a cup and handed it to the bride; the bride bowed twice and received the cup; the announcer also set food before the seat; the bride then sat, ate and drank to completion, descended, and bowed twice. The father descended and stood below the eastern steps; the guest came out of the pavilion, (The guest refers to the groom.) The host received him at the gate, bowed with joined hands to invite the guest in; the guest returned the bow and followed him in. The host ascended the eastern steps, facing west; the guest ascended the western steps and advanced to stand before the room door, facing north. The officer in charge displayed the wild geese on the steps; the guest said: "So-and-so has received a command from his father and, by this auspicious rite, comes in person to await the completion of the charge. " The host said: "So-and-so has long wished to comply with the command. " The guest bowed twice, descended and departed; the host did not descend to see him off. At first, when the bride came out, the father admonished her, saying: "Go to your husband's home and do not forget reverent respect! " The mother admonished her, saying: "Reflect upon this morning and evening, and do not disobey any command! " The other mothers added their counsel: "Never go against what your parents have taught you! " The bride departed; the groom went ahead to his home and waited for her at the gate. When the bride arrived, the announcer guided her to her place facing north; the groom, facing south, bowed to receive her, and together they entered the bridal chamber. The officer in charge arranged facing seats in the room, and groom and bride both sat down; the announcer filled cups with wine and presented them to each; groom and bride accepted the cups and drank them dry. Food was then served, and the second and third rounds of wine followed the same procedure as before. Groom and bride both stood, bowed twice, and the announcer cleared away the wine and food.

見祖禰、見舅姑、醴婦、饗送者，如儀。

The rites of presenting themselves to forebears, meeting the parents-in-law, the mother-in-law's ceremonial wine to the bride, and entertaining the escorts were all performed according to regulation.

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