Title

Talismans and Symbols 

Author

Lee, Fong-mao Chang, Chih-hsiung

Genre

Article  

Pages

327-364   

Download

PDF

Language

Chinese

Key words

talisman, Celestial Master talisman, officials and generals, symbols  

Abstract

    Talismans, of which the talisman of the Celestial Master is a typical example, are fundamental elements in the Talisman Register (Fulu) Sect of Daoism. Talismans are closely related to the legitimation of power. They are inscribed with figurative signa and formal symbols (constellations, five phases, eight trigrams), written in black or red ink on colored paper. According to a Celestial Master Daoist, before summoning deities, the adept shall identify his own Primary Perfection, follow seven precepts and five prohibitions, and then meditate with concentration. Talismans may serve as a manifestation of cosmic energies, as the representation of a god, or as an order issuing from one or another deity. The functions of talismans may be divided into four categories: summoning, hearing, exorcism, and subduing. Formed by the divine pneuma of Dao and transmitted by the deities, talismans are contracts that, through mysterious calligraphy, diagrams, and symbols, give Daoists power over the divine and ensure religious authenticity.