The Daoist Liturgy of the Most High for Daily Recitations (Taishang xuanmen gongke jing) is performed in Daoist temples every morning and evening. The ritual aims at a perfected state for self-cultivation and serves as a religious prayer for universal salvation from sufferings and calamities in the world. The liturgical text includes recitations from a broad spectrum of Daoist traditions, including scriptures, chants, divine proclamations, litany of repentance, incantations, and hymns, which offers major insights into living Daoist beliefs and ritual traditions in contemporary Chinese communities. The complete, meticulous English translation is accompanied by annotations and a well-researched introduction that situates the liturgical text in its historical context and examines how the spiritual practices and ritual performances are described. Together, they provide the religious, textual, and historical depth for readers to understand the rich and indigenous religion of Daoism in China, highly recommended for those interested in Chinese culture and religion, and in inter-religious dialogues.
