The Great Cavern Scripture
上清大洞真经
Meet a central scripture of Shangqing. Read alongside the Yellow Court scripture and Zhen’gao to explore the tradition’s sacred world and transmission.
Reading guideHow to approach this work
Begin with its place in Shangqing, then follow editions and related texts. This guide connects the scripture with the lineage and other works in the collection.
Reading guide · available in Chinese and English
Begin with a central scripture
The temple’s bibliography identifies this as a foundational Shangqing scripture. Approach the name Shangqing through scripture, divine beings and transmission together.
Back to introduction ↑Read across the collection
Use the Yellow Court’s imagery and Zhen’gao’s voices as companion readings. Keep a short list of recurring names and questions as you move between works.
Back to introduction ↑Return to the people
Follow the profiles of Wei Huacun, Yang Xi and Tao Hongjing, then return to the books. Let the movement between people and texts give your reading a setting.
Back to introduction ↑Edition & sources
A reading guide, with bibliographic and edition details in the linked source.
Guides are written for this site. Read divine beings, bodily imagery and longevity in their religious setting.