Investiture Of The Gods Chapter 99: Confirmations Of The Dead As Gods
When he arrived at the Jade Emptiness Palace on Mount Kunlun,
Jiang Ziya was admitted by White Crane Lad and went in to see
Heavenly Primogenitor.
Jiang knelt down and said, “May you live 10,000 years. I beg
you to grant me the jade spells so I can confirm as gods the ghosts in the Terrace of
God Confirmation. Dear Master, have mercy on them. Both I and the ghosts will
appreciate your kindness forever.”
“I already knew this, Jiang Ziya. You may return first. I will send the
jade spells and my decree before long,” Heavenly Primogenitor replied.
Jiang Ziya kowtowed and returned to West Qi. He went to see King
Wu to report all that had happened. A few days later, soft music and a
sweet fragrance drifted down from the sky. Several yellow scarved creatures
accompanied White Crane Lad to deliver the jade spells and decree.
Jiang Ziya went out to welcome the messengers. He knelt down to
receive the jade spells and golden decree and kowtowed toward the Jade
Emptiness Palace to thank his master. Jiang then left immediately for
Mount Qi. When he got to the Terrace Of God Confirmation, he was welcomed by
Bai Jian, God Of Pure Happiness.
Jiang Ziya placed the jade spells and golden decree on the altar in the
center. He ordered Wu Ji and Nangong Kuo to erect paper pennants with
decimal and duodecimal cycle signs all around the terrace to suppress
evil creatures. He also ordered that 3,000 soldiers should be brought in to
guard the terrace.
Jiang then took a bath and changed his robe. He burnt incense inside
a gold tripod, poured wine, presented flowers and raced around the
terrace 3 times. After he had in this manner given honor to the golden decree,
Jiang Ziya ordered Bai Jian to wait below the terrace for his order. He
then unrolled the golden decree and read aloud:
I authorize Jiang Ziya to confirm you as gods on my behalf. You shall all be free
from reincarnation from birth to death. You shall be promoted according
to your merits. You must obey the law. Do not commit any new sin or
crime...
Jiang Ziya then placed the jade spells on the desk. He was fully armed
and held the Yellow Apricot Flag in his left hand and the Staff For Beating
Gods in his right. “Bai Jian!” he shouted loudly. “Hang up the List Of
God Confirmation. Let all the ghosts come to me in good order. No one is allowed
to leave the line.”
Bai Jian hung up the list, and all the ghosts rushed forward to read it.
When he saw that his name was at the top of the list, Bai Jian instantly
held up the God Leading Pennant, entered the terrace, and knelt down
before the altar.
“By decree of Heavenly Primogenitor, I confirm you as God Of Pure
Happiness. You must take this post with care and respect,” Jiang Ziya
declared.
Bai Jian kowtowed and then left the terrace to wait for further orders.
“Bring in Huang Tianhua,” Jiang Ziya ordered.
Huang Tianhua entered and knelt down.
“Huang Tianhua, you sacrificed your life for the nation when you
were young. You achieved many great merits. We must reward you with
a high post. I confirm you as Bing Ling Gong, God Of 3 Sacred
Mountains.” Jiang Ziya declared.
Huang Tianhua kowtowed and left the terrace at once.
Jiang Ziya then ordered, “Bring in Huang Feihu, Chong Heihu, Wen
Pin, Cui Ying, and Jiang Xiong.”
Bai Jian led the 5 gods to the terrace, and they all knelt down.
“All of you were loyal, but your merits differ one from another. I
entitle you, Huang Feihu, as Chief God Of 5 Mountains with
power over the 18 hells for the deceased. All reincarnations after
death, into commoners, gods, or ghosts, are under your control.
I confirm you, Huang Feihu, as God Of Taishan, the East Mountain,
King And Saintly Emperor As Great As Heaven. You control all fortune
and misfortune, blessings and punishment for the commoners in this
world.”
Huang Feihu kowtowed to show his gratitude. Then Jiang Ziya
announced, “I confirm Chong Heihu as God Of Hengshan, the South
Mountain, Wen Pin as God Of Songshan, the Middle Mountain, Cui Ying as
God Of Hengshan, the North Mountain, and Jiang Xiong as God Of
Huashan, the West Mountain. Each is entitled Great Saint
Emperor.”
Chong Heihu, Wen Pin, Cui Ying, and Jiang Xiong all kowtowed and
then left the terrace with Huang Feihu.
“Let the gods of thunder come to see me,” Jiang Ziya ordered.
When they were led forward, Grand Tutor Wen was unwilling to kneel
before Jiang Ziya.
“All kneel down at once to hear the decree from the Jade Emptiness
Palace,” Jiang Ziya shouted, waving his staff.
Grand Tutor Wen was forced to yield and kneel down with other
gods.
“Wen Zhong, your loyalty and chastity are admirable. You are to be
head of thunder gods. Your duties are gather clouds, drop rain,
and grow crops for the people. You will punish the wicked and bless the
good. I confirm you as Chief Of Thunder Gods under the 9 Heavens.
24 gods under your leadership are as follows:
Deng Zhong, Xin Huan, Zhang Jie, Tao Rong, Pang Hong, Liu Fu,
Gou Zhang, Bi Huan, Qin Wan, Zhao Jiang, Dong Quan, Yuan Jue, Li De,
Sun Liang, Bai Li, Wang Bian, Yao Bin, Zhang Shao, Huang Geng, Jin Su,
Ji Li, Yu Qing, Mother Golden Light (Female God Of Lightning), and God
Lotus (Female God Of Wind). All are honored with the title Heavenly
Master,” Jiang Ziya declared.
Wen Zhong and his 24 thunder gods kowtowed and left the
terrace. Auspicious clouds and purple haze floated through the air.
lightning and wind appeared immediately in the air.
“Lead the gods of fire before me,” Jiang Ziya ordered next.
When Luo Xuan and the other fire gods had knelt down, Jiang Ziya
declared, “Luo Xuan, you are confirmed as Chief Of Fire Gods. You
must watch over the people and check their evil or good deeds. 5
gods beneath you are: Zhu Zhao, Gao Zhen, Fang Gui, Wang Jiao, and
Liu Huan.”
After they had kowtowed and left, Jiang Ziya ordered, “Lead the
gods of plague to the terrace.”
Before long, Lu Yue and the others ascended the terrace, knelt down,
and listened.
“Lu Yue, I confirm you as Chief Of Plague Gods, with honorable
title of Heavenly King. 6 gods under your control are: Zhou
Xin, God Of Plague In The East, Li Qi, God Of Plague In The South,
Zhu Tianlin, God Of Plague In The West, Yang Wenhui, God Of
Plague In The North, Chen Geng, Grand Instructor For Goodness, and
Li Ping, God Of Destroying The Plague,” Jiang Ziya declared.
Lu Yue and the other gods kowtowed and left the terrace for their
posts at once.
Jiang Ziya then ordered, “Lead the male gods and female gods of constellations and stars to the
Terrace Of God Confirmation.”
In a short while, Bai Jian led Mother Golden God and the others to
the terrace. They knelt down and listened.
“Mother Golden God, I appoint you as head of constellations.
You are confirmed as Honorable Female God Of North Pole Dippers,
with 84,000 gods of stars under your command. These are the gods
of 5 constellations:
Gods of Eastern Constellation: Su Hu, Jin Kui, Ji Shuming, and
Zhao Bing;
Gods of Western Constellation: Huang Tianlu, Long Huan, Sun
Ziyu, Hu Sheng, and Hu Yunpeng;
Gods of Central Constellation: Lu Renjie, Chao Lei, and Ji
Shusheng;
God Of North Pole, Great Emperor: Ji Bo Yikao;
Gods of South Constellation: Zhou Ji, Hu Lei, Gao Gui, Yu Cheng,
Sun Bao, and Lei Kun;
Gods of Northern Constellation: Huang Tianxiang, Bi Gan (God Of
Culture), Dou Rong (God Of Military Affairs), Han Sheng, Han Bian, Su
Quanzhong, E Shun, Guo Chen, and Dong Zhong;
The male gods and female gods of stars:
God Of Green Dragon Star: Deng Jiugong,
God Of White Tiger Star: Yin Chengxiu,
God Of Red Sparrow Star: Ma Fang,
God Of Mysterious War Star: Xu Kun,
God Of Gone With The Old Star: Lei Peng,
God Of Snake Star: Zhang Shan,
God Of Solar Star: Xu Gai,
Female God Of Lunar Star: Queen Jiang,
God Of Jade Hall Star: Shang Rong,
God Of Heavenly Precious Star: Ji Shuqian,
God Of Dragon Virtue Star: Hong Jin,
Female God Of Red Phoenix Star: Princess Long Ji,
God Of Heavenly Happy Star: King Zhou,
God Of Heavenly Virtue Star: Mei Bo,
God Of Lunar Virtue Star: Xia Zhao,
God Of Heavenly Amnesty Star: Zhao Qi,
Female God Of Upright Behavior Star: Lady Jia (Huang Feihu’s wife),
God Of Metal Mansion Star: Xiao Zhen,
God Of Wooden Mansion Star: Deng Hua,
God Of Water Mansion Star: Yu Yuan,
Female God Of Fire Mansion Star: Mother Fiery God,
God Of Earth Mansion Star (Saturn): Underground Traveler Sun,
Female God Of 6 Combinations Star: Deng Chanyu,
God Of Doctorate Star: Du Yuanxian,
God Of Power Star: Wu Wenhua,
God Of Admonishment Star: Jiao Ge,
God Of River Leading Star: Huang Feibiao,
Female God Of Moon Leading Star: Madam Chedi,
God Of Imperial Coach Star: Jiang Huanchu,
God Of Heavenly Inheritance Star: Huang Feibao,
God Of Imperial Chariot Star: Ding Ce,
God Of Heavenly Horse Star: E Chongyu,
God Of Imperial Favor Star: Li Jin,
God Of Heavenly Medical Star: Qian Bao,
Female God Of Earthly Queen Star: Concubine Huang,
God Of Domestic Dragon Star: Ji Shude,
God Of Dragon Taming Star: Huang Ming,
God Of Station Horse Star: Lei Kai,
God Of Yellow Pennant Star: Wei Ben,
God Of Leopard Tail Star: Wu Qian,
God Of Mourning House Star: Zhang Guifang,
God Of Lamenting Visitor Star: Feng Lin,
God Of Pulling Twisting Star: Fei Zhong,
God Of Rolled Tongue Star: You Hun,
God Of Throat Control Star: Peng Zun,
God Of City Planning Star: Wang Bao,
God Of Flying Curtain Star: Ji Shukun,
God Of Great Spending Star: Chong Houhu,
God Of Minor Spending Star: Yin Pobai,
God Of Linked String Star: Qiu Yin,
God Of Railing Star: Long Anji,
God Of Head Spreading Star: Tai Luan,
God Of 5 Devils Star: Deng Xiu,
God Of Goat Cutlass Star: Zhao Sheng,
God Of Bloody Light Star: Sun Yanhong,
God Of Official Seal Star: Fang Yizhen,
God Of Single Morning Star: Yu Hua,
God Of Heavenly Dog Star: Ji Kang,
God Of Sickness Spell Star: Wang Zuo,
God Of Bone Boring Star: Zhang Feng,
God Of Death Spell Star: Bian Jinlong,
God Of Heavenly Defeat Star: Bai Xianzhong,
God Of Floating Submerging Star: Zheng Chun,
God Of Heavenly Slaying Star: Bian Ji,
God Of Yearly Killing Star: Chen Geng,
God Of Yearly Punishment Star: Xu Fang,
God Of Yearly Breaking Star: Chao Tian,
God Of Lonely Fire Star: Ji Shuyi,
God Of Blood Red Star: Ma Zhong,
God Of Lost God Star: Ouyang Chun,
God Of Monthly Breaking Star: Wang Hu,
Female God Of Monthly Touring Star: Lady Rock,
God Of Dead Air Star: Chen Jizhen,
God Of Salty Pond Star: Xu Zhong,
God Of Monthly Disgusted Star: Yao Zhong,
God Of Monthly Punishment Star: Chen Wu,
God Of Black Killing Star: Gao Jineng,
God Of 7 Murders Star: Zhang Kui,
God Of 5 Grains Star: Yin Hong,
God Of Avoiding Murder Star: Yu Zhong,
God Of Heavenly Punishment Star: Ouyang Tianlu,
God Of Heavenly Net Star: Chen Tong,
God Of Earthly Net Star: Ji Shuji,
God Of Heavenly Space Star: Mei Wu,
God Of Parasol Star: Ao Bing,
God Of 10 Evils Star: Zhou Xin,
Female God Of Silkworm Breeding Star: Huang Yuanji,
Female God Of Peach Blossom Star: Gao Lanying,
Female God Of Broom Star: Lady Ma (Jiang Ziya’s wife),
God Of Great Calamity Star: Li Gen,
God Of Scattering About Star: Han Rong,
God Of Mourning Dress Star: Lin Shan,
God Of 9 Ugliness Star: Dragon Beard Tiger,
Gods Of 3 Corpse Stars: Sa Jian, Sa Qiang, and Sa Yong,
God Of Yin Mistake Star: Jin Cheng,
God Of Yang Error Star: Ma Chenglong,
God Of Cutlass Slaying Star: Gongsun Duo,
God Of 4 Wastes Star: Yuan Hong,
God Of 5 Poverties Star: Sun He,
God Of Earthly Space Empty Star: Mei De,
Female God Of Red Lovely Star: Concubine Yang,
God Of Flowing Haze Star: Wu Rong,
God Of Sleeping Alone Star: Zhu Sheng,
God Of Heavenly Plague Star: Jin Dasheng,
God Of Laying Waste Star: Dai Li,
God Of Fetus God Star: Ji Shuli,
God Of Decision Star: Zhu Zizhen,
God Of Anti Singing Star: Yang Xian,
God Of Promoting Singing Star: Yao Shuliang,
God Of Knife Anvil Star: Chang Hao,
God Of Exterminating Star: Fang Jingyuan,
God Of Yearly Disgusted Star: Peng Zushou,
God Of Breaking Star: Wu Long,
God Of Ox Metal Ox Constellation: Li Hong,
God Of Devil Metal Goat Constellation: Zhao Baigao,
God Of Blundering Metal Dog Constellation: Zhang Xiong,
God Of Haughty Metal Dragon Constellation: Li Daotong,
God Of Female Earth Bat Constellation: Zheng Yuan,
God Of Stomach Earth Pheasant Constellation: Song Geng,
God Of Willow Earth Roebuck Constellation: Wu Kun,
God Of Native Earth Jackal Constellation: Gao Bing,
God Of Star Sun Horse Constellation: Lu Neng,
God Of Heroic Sun Rooster Constellation: Huang Cang,
God Of Vain Sun Rat Constellation: Zhou Bao,
God Of Room Sun Rabbit Constellation: Yao Gongbo,
God Of Completion Moon Crow Constellation: Jin Shengyang,
God Of Danger Moon Swallow Constellation: Hou Taiyi,
God Of Heart Moon Fox Constellation: Su Yuan,
God Of Long Moon Deer Constellation: Xue Ding.
The 36 gods of heavenly gallant stars:
God Of Heavenly Leading Star: Gao Yan,
God Of Heavenly Gallant Star: Huang Zhen,
God Of Heavenly Planning Star: Lu Chang,
God Of Heavenly Leisure Star: Ji Bing,
God Of Heavenly Courageous Star: Yao Gongxiao,
God Of Heavenly Heroic Star: Shi Kuai,
God Of Heavenly Fierce Star: Sun Yi,
God Of Heavenly Mighty Star: Li Bao,
God Of Heavenly Courageous Star: Zhu Yi,
God Of Heavenly Honorable Star: Chen Kan,
God Of Heavenly Rich Star: Li Xian,
God Of Heavenly Full Star: Fang Bao,
God Of Heavenly Lonely Star: Zhan Xiu,
God Of Heavenly Injured Star: Li Hongren,
God Of Heavenly Mystic Star: Wang Longmao,
God Of Heavenly Healthy Star: Deng Yu,
God Of Heavenly Dark Star: Li Xin,
God Of Heavenly Safety Star: Xu Zhengdao,
God Of Heavenly Empty Star: Dian Tong,
God Of Heavenly Swift Star: Wu Xu,
God Of Heavenly Different Star: Lu Zicheng,
God Of Heavenly Demon Star: Ren Laipin,
God Of Heavenly Minute Star: Gong Qing,
God Of Heavenly Contemplating Star: Shan Baizhao,
God Of Heavenly Retreating Star: Gao Ke,
God Of Heavenly Longevity Star: Qi Cheng,
God Of Heavenly Sword Star: Wang Hu,
God Of Heavenly Level Star: Bu Tong,
God Of Heavenly Criminal Star: Yao Gong,
God Of Heavenly Damage Star: Tang Tianzheng,
God Of Heavenly Defeat Star: Shen Li,
God Of Heavenly Imprisonment Star: Wen Jie,
God Of Heavenly Clever Star: Zhang Zhixiong,
God Of Heavenly Violent Star: Bi De,
God Of Heavenly Weeping Star: Liu Da,
God Of Heavenly Skillful Star: Chen Sanyi.
The 72 Gods of Earthly Evil Stars:
God Of Earthly Leading Star: Chen Jizhen,
God Of Earthly Evil Star: Huang Jingyuan,
God Of Earthly Courageous Star: Jia Cheng,
God Of Earthly Heroic Star: Hu Baiyan,
God Of Earthly Gallant Star: Lu Xiude,
God Of Earthly Power Star: Xu Cheng,
God Of Earthly Mighty Star: Sun Xiang,
God Of Earthly Strange Star: Wang Ping,
God Of Earthly Fierce Star: Bai Youhuan,
God Of Earthly Literature Star: Ge Gao,
God Of Earthly Upright Star: Kao Ge,
God Of Earthly Secluded Star: Li Sui,
God Of Earthly Closing Star: Liu Heng,
God Of Earthly Strong Star: Xia Xiang,
God Of Earthly Dark Star: Yu Hui,
God Of Earthly Helping Star: Bao Long,
God Of Earthly Gathering Star: Lu Zhi,
God Of Earthly Assisting Star: Huang Bingqing,
God Of Earthly Safety Star: Zhang Qi,
God Of Earthly God Star: Guo Yi,
God Of Earthly Animal Star: Jin Nandao,
God Of Earthly Minute Star: Chen Yuan,
God Of Earthly Clever Star: Che Kun,
God Of Earthly Violent Star: Sang Chengdao,
God Of Earthly Silent Star: Zhou Geng,
God Of Earthly Mad Star: Qi Gong,
God Of Earthly Rampant Star: Huo Zhiyuan,
God Of Earthly Flying Star: Ye Zhong,
God Of Earthly Walking Star: Gu Zong,
God Of Earthly Skillful Star: Li Chang,
God Of Earthly Bright Star: Fang Ji,
God Of Earthly Progressive Star: Xu Ji,
God Of Earthly Retreating Star: Fan Huan,
God Of Earthly Full Star: Zhuo Gong,
God Of Earthly Successful Star: Kong Cheng,
God Of Earthly Round Star: Yao Jinxiu,
God Of Earthly Disappearing Star: Ning Sanyi,
God Of Earthly Different Star: Yu Zhi,
God Of Earthly Theory Star: Tong Zhen,
God Of Earthly Gallant Star: Yuan Dingxiang,
God Of Earthly Happy Star: Wang Xiang,
God Of Earthly Adroit Star: Geng Yan,
God Of Earthly Swift Star: Xing Sanluan,
God Of Earthly Suppressing Star: Jiang Zhong,
God Of Earthly Detaining Star: Kong Tianzhao,
God Of Earthly Demon Star: Li Yue,
God Of Earthly Creature Star: Gong Qian,
God Of Earthly Tranquil Star: Duan Qing,
God Of Earthly Submitting Star: Men Daozheng,
God Of Earthly Secluded Star: Zu Lin,
God Of Earthly Space Star: Xiao Dian,
God Of Earthly Lonely Star: Wu Siyu,
God Of Earthly Complete Star: Kuang Yu,
God Of Earthly Short Star: Cai Gong,
God Of Earthly Corner Star: Lan Hu,
God Of Earthly Imprisonment Star: Song Lu,
God Of Earthly Treasure Star: Guan Bin,
God Of Earthly Level Star: Long Cheng,
God Of Earthly Damage Star: Huang Wu,
God Of Earthly Slave Star: Kong Daoling,
God Of Earthly Examining Star: Zhang Huan,
God Of Earthly Wicked Star: Li Xin,
God Of Earthly Ghost Star: Xu Shan,
God Of Earthly Counting Star: Ge Fang,
God Of Earthly Punishment Star: Jiao Long,
God Of Earthly Torture Star: Qin Xiang,
God Of Earthly Strong Star: Wu Yangong,
God Of Earthly Inefficient Star: Fan Bin,
God Of Earthly Healthy Star: Ye Jingchang,
God Of Earthly Spending Star: Yao Ye,
God Of Earthly Theft Star: Sun Ji,
God Of Earthly Dog Star: Chen Menggeng.
The Gods of 9 Brightly Shining Stars: Chong Yingbiao, Gao
Xiping, Han Peng, Li Ji, Wang Feng, Liu Jin, Wang Chu, Peng Jiuyuan
and Li Sanyi.
The 5 gods of water virtue stars in the big dipper:
God Of Water Virtue Star: Lu Xiong,
God Of Water Leopard Star: Yang Zhen,
God Of Water Beaver Star: Fang Jiging,
God Of Water Ape Star: Sun Xiang,
God Of Water Earthworm Star: Hu Daoyuan.
The gods of stars and constellations, after hearing the
announcements, kowtowed to express their thanks and left the terrace.
“Lead the gods of year to the terrace for their confirmation,” Jiang
Ziya ordered.
Bai Jian then led Yin Jiao, Yang Ren, and a few others to the terrace.
They knelt down to wait for their orders.
“I declare Yin Jiao as God Of Year. Your duty is to watch over
all that happens in the year, whether good or bad. And I confirm you, Yang
Ren, as God Of 60 Years Cycle. The gods under you will act
according to the decrees of the universe and examine all the good and evil
done by the people. All of you must adhere strictly to your duties. The
gods under your command are:
God on Day Patrol: Wen Liang,
God on Night Patrol: Qiao Kuan,
God for Increasing Happiness: Han Dulong,
God for Reducing Happiness: Xue Ehu,
God Of Doctrine Preaching: Fang Bi,
God Of Vanguard: Fang Xiang,
God on Yearly Duty: Li Bing,
God on Monthly Duty: Huang Chengyi,
God on Daily Duty: Zhou Deng,
God on Hourly Duty: Liu Hong.”
(Later, Yin Jiao God Of Year was over 60 gods of 60 years cycle.
Number 1 in the 60 gods of 60 years cycle was Yang Ren God).
After they had left the terrace, Jiang Ziya ordered, “Lead Wang Mo
and others to the Terrace Of God Confirmation.”
When they had knelt down on the terrace to listen, Jiang said, “I confirm
you 4 as Gods To Guard The Precious Heavenly Firmament. All will
hold the honorable title of Great Saint Commander In Chief.” Wang Mo,
Yang Sen, Gao Tigian, and Li Xingba kowtowed their thanks and left the
terrace.
Jiang Ziya next ordered, “Lead Zhao Gongming and others to the
terrace.”
When they arrived, Jiang Ziya declared, “Zhao Gongming, you are
confirmed as Genuine God Of Profound Dragon Tiger Altar. Your
duties are to welcome the blessings of auspicious happiness and chase
criminals who are fleeing. The names of the 4 other Gods under your
command are:
God Of Welcoming Treasures: Xiao Sheng,
God Of Storing Valuables: Cao Bao,
God Envoy of Welcoming Wealth: Chen Jiugong,
God Officer of Good Market: Yao Shaosi.”
Zhao and the 4 others kowtowed and left the terrace.
“Lead the 4 Mo generals to the Terrace Of God Confirmation,” Jiang Ziya
ordered once again.
In a short while, Bai Jian led Mo Liqing and his 3 brothers to the
terrace. They knelt down to receive their confirmation as gods.
Jiang Ziya declared, “You are named Great Heavenly Kings, who
will guard and serve the western religion of Buddhism, protect the
country and people with earth, water, fire, and wind, and regulate both the
wind and rain. Your posts and duties are as follows:
Mo Liging, you are Developing Heavenly King. You hold the green
light precious sword and are in charge of wind,
Mo Lihong, you are Wide Eyed Heavenly King. You hold the green
jade pipa, and your duty is to regulate wind;
Mo Lihai, you are Literature Heavenly King. You hold the
Precious Universe Disorder Umbrella and are in charge of rain,
Mo Lishou, you are National Protection Heavenly King. You hold
the spotted weasel, and your duty is to adjust rain. You all must
adhere to your duties faithfully.”
The 4 generals kowtowed and left the terrace.
Jiang Ziya then ordered, “Lead Zheng Lun and Chen Qi to the
Terrace Of God Confirmation.”
When both Zheng Lun and Chen Qi came and knelt before him, Jiang
Ziya announced, “I confirm you, because of your wonderful strength, as the
gate gods General Heng and General Ha, to guard the gate of western Buddha’s
residence, to preach the truth, and to protect the precious weapons and
instruments there. You must carry out your duties faithfully.”
Both Zheng Lun and Chen Qi kowtowed and left the terrace. Jiang
Ziya ordered Yu Hualong and others to see him. When they arrived, he
said, “I confirm you, Yu Hualong, as chief god, with the title of Green
Haze Primary King Controller Of Smallpox. You must carry out your duties
with the 5 other gods of smallpox. I confirm your wife, Lady Jin, as
Saint Queen To Protect Sickrooms. The 5 other gods are as follows:
God Of Smallpox In The east: Yu Da,
God Of Smallpox In The west: Yu Zhao,
God Of Smallpox In The south: Yu Guang,
God Of Smallpox In The north: Yu Xian,
God Of Smallpox In The center: Yu De.
You must all fulfil your duties respectfully.”
After the Yu family had left the terrace, High Firmament, Jade
Firmament, and Green Firmament arrived for confirmation as gods. Jiang Ziya announced,
“Your crimes were serious, but you are generously forgiven and honored
with glorious titles. Hereafter, you are to be called Female Gods of
Golden Universe Disorder Dipper. Your duty is to deal with birth.
Everyone, gods, ordinary people, saints, dukes, kings, the rich and the poor,
the clever and the foolish, must all come into this world with the golden
dipper. You, High Firmament, Jade Firmament, and Green Firmament,
must strictly adhere to your duties and respectfully appreciate the favor
gifted to you.”
The 3 Female Gods kowtowed their thanks, and Jiang Ziya finally
ordered Shen Gongbao to ascend the terrace.
When Shen Gongbao had come to kneel before him, Jiang Ziya
pronounced, “Shen Gongbao, you were originally a member of Chan Taoism
but later opposed your own sect. When you were arrested, you
dishonestly made a false oath to cover up your crimes. Knowing that you once
tried to devote yourself to learning the doctrines, we now generously
grant you the title God Of East Sea. Your duties are to watch the
sunrise and sunset, and the water in summer, and the ice in winter. In
addition, you are given the position of Water Dividing General.
You must adhere faithfully to your post.”
After the announcement was over, Shen Gongbao kowtowed and left
the terrace. As soon as all 365 gods were confirmed, they left Mount Qi to
take up their posts. The sad wind and fog disappeared, and the bright sun
shone again from above.
Jiang Ziya went below and gave an order to General Nangong Kuo.
“Invite all the ministers and officials, civil and military, high and low, to
come to Mount Qi tomorrow.”
General Nangong raced to West Qi City to carry out the order. Early
the next day, Jiang Ziya held a conference with his ministers and offi-
cials. He ordered that Fei Lian and E Lai be led before them.
When Fei Lian and E Lai pleaded innocence, Jiang Ziya smiled and
said, “You 2 wicked fellows have committed capital crimes. You tricked
the king and put many loyal ministers to death, leading to the complete
destruction of the Shang Dynasty. Even death is far too light a
punishment for the seriousness of your crimes. Both the nation and the king
were destroyed, and you brought treasures to us in an attempt to buy high
posts in the Zhou Dynasty. Our new king has risen to the throne
according to the will of Heaven and is doing his best to effect reform. We
cannot let you 2 disloyal despicables live any longer to humiliate us.”
Jiang Ziya then ordered, “Take them out and cut their heads off!”
Please read the next chapter if you wish to know how they fared.
written may 11, 2023.
revised may 14, 2023.
text license: public domain.
Jiang Ziya was admitted by White Crane Lad and went in to see
Heavenly Primogenitor.
Jiang knelt down and said, “May you live 10,000 years. I beg
you to grant me the jade spells so I can confirm as gods the ghosts in the Terrace of
God Confirmation. Dear Master, have mercy on them. Both I and the ghosts will
appreciate your kindness forever.”
“I already knew this, Jiang Ziya. You may return first. I will send the
jade spells and my decree before long,” Heavenly Primogenitor replied.
Jiang Ziya kowtowed and returned to West Qi. He went to see King
Wu to report all that had happened. A few days later, soft music and a
sweet fragrance drifted down from the sky. Several yellow scarved creatures
accompanied White Crane Lad to deliver the jade spells and decree.
Jiang Ziya went out to welcome the messengers. He knelt down to
receive the jade spells and golden decree and kowtowed toward the Jade
Emptiness Palace to thank his master. Jiang then left immediately for
Mount Qi. When he got to the Terrace Of God Confirmation, he was welcomed by
Bai Jian, God Of Pure Happiness.
Jiang Ziya placed the jade spells and golden decree on the altar in the
center. He ordered Wu Ji and Nangong Kuo to erect paper pennants with
decimal and duodecimal cycle signs all around the terrace to suppress
evil creatures. He also ordered that 3,000 soldiers should be brought in to
guard the terrace.
Jiang then took a bath and changed his robe. He burnt incense inside
a gold tripod, poured wine, presented flowers and raced around the
terrace 3 times. After he had in this manner given honor to the golden decree,
Jiang Ziya ordered Bai Jian to wait below the terrace for his order. He
then unrolled the golden decree and read aloud:
I authorize Jiang Ziya to confirm you as gods on my behalf. You shall all be free
from reincarnation from birth to death. You shall be promoted according
to your merits. You must obey the law. Do not commit any new sin or
crime...
Jiang Ziya then placed the jade spells on the desk. He was fully armed
and held the Yellow Apricot Flag in his left hand and the Staff For Beating
Gods in his right. “Bai Jian!” he shouted loudly. “Hang up the List Of
God Confirmation. Let all the ghosts come to me in good order. No one is allowed
to leave the line.”
Bai Jian hung up the list, and all the ghosts rushed forward to read it.
When he saw that his name was at the top of the list, Bai Jian instantly
held up the God Leading Pennant, entered the terrace, and knelt down
before the altar.
“By decree of Heavenly Primogenitor, I confirm you as God Of Pure
Happiness. You must take this post with care and respect,” Jiang Ziya
declared.
Bai Jian kowtowed and then left the terrace to wait for further orders.
“Bring in Huang Tianhua,” Jiang Ziya ordered.
Huang Tianhua entered and knelt down.
“Huang Tianhua, you sacrificed your life for the nation when you
were young. You achieved many great merits. We must reward you with
a high post. I confirm you as Bing Ling Gong, God Of 3 Sacred
Mountains.” Jiang Ziya declared.
Huang Tianhua kowtowed and left the terrace at once.
Jiang Ziya then ordered, “Bring in Huang Feihu, Chong Heihu, Wen
Pin, Cui Ying, and Jiang Xiong.”
Bai Jian led the 5 gods to the terrace, and they all knelt down.
“All of you were loyal, but your merits differ one from another. I
entitle you, Huang Feihu, as Chief God Of 5 Mountains with
power over the 18 hells for the deceased. All reincarnations after
death, into commoners, gods, or ghosts, are under your control.
I confirm you, Huang Feihu, as God Of Taishan, the East Mountain,
King And Saintly Emperor As Great As Heaven. You control all fortune
and misfortune, blessings and punishment for the commoners in this
world.”
Huang Feihu kowtowed to show his gratitude. Then Jiang Ziya
announced, “I confirm Chong Heihu as God Of Hengshan, the South
Mountain, Wen Pin as God Of Songshan, the Middle Mountain, Cui Ying as
God Of Hengshan, the North Mountain, and Jiang Xiong as God Of
Huashan, the West Mountain. Each is entitled Great Saint
Emperor.”
Chong Heihu, Wen Pin, Cui Ying, and Jiang Xiong all kowtowed and
then left the terrace with Huang Feihu.
“Let the gods of thunder come to see me,” Jiang Ziya ordered.
When they were led forward, Grand Tutor Wen was unwilling to kneel
before Jiang Ziya.
“All kneel down at once to hear the decree from the Jade Emptiness
Palace,” Jiang Ziya shouted, waving his staff.
Grand Tutor Wen was forced to yield and kneel down with other
gods.
“Wen Zhong, your loyalty and chastity are admirable. You are to be
head of thunder gods. Your duties are gather clouds, drop rain,
and grow crops for the people. You will punish the wicked and bless the
good. I confirm you as Chief Of Thunder Gods under the 9 Heavens.
24 gods under your leadership are as follows:
Deng Zhong, Xin Huan, Zhang Jie, Tao Rong, Pang Hong, Liu Fu,
Gou Zhang, Bi Huan, Qin Wan, Zhao Jiang, Dong Quan, Yuan Jue, Li De,
Sun Liang, Bai Li, Wang Bian, Yao Bin, Zhang Shao, Huang Geng, Jin Su,
Ji Li, Yu Qing, Mother Golden Light (Female God Of Lightning), and God
Lotus (Female God Of Wind). All are honored with the title Heavenly
Master,” Jiang Ziya declared.
Wen Zhong and his 24 thunder gods kowtowed and left the
terrace. Auspicious clouds and purple haze floated through the air.
lightning and wind appeared immediately in the air.
“Lead the gods of fire before me,” Jiang Ziya ordered next.
When Luo Xuan and the other fire gods had knelt down, Jiang Ziya
declared, “Luo Xuan, you are confirmed as Chief Of Fire Gods. You
must watch over the people and check their evil or good deeds. 5
gods beneath you are: Zhu Zhao, Gao Zhen, Fang Gui, Wang Jiao, and
Liu Huan.”
After they had kowtowed and left, Jiang Ziya ordered, “Lead the
gods of plague to the terrace.”
Before long, Lu Yue and the others ascended the terrace, knelt down,
and listened.
“Lu Yue, I confirm you as Chief Of Plague Gods, with honorable
title of Heavenly King. 6 gods under your control are: Zhou
Xin, God Of Plague In The East, Li Qi, God Of Plague In The South,
Zhu Tianlin, God Of Plague In The West, Yang Wenhui, God Of
Plague In The North, Chen Geng, Grand Instructor For Goodness, and
Li Ping, God Of Destroying The Plague,” Jiang Ziya declared.
Lu Yue and the other gods kowtowed and left the terrace for their
posts at once.
Jiang Ziya then ordered, “Lead the male gods and female gods of constellations and stars to the
Terrace Of God Confirmation.”
In a short while, Bai Jian led Mother Golden God and the others to
the terrace. They knelt down and listened.
“Mother Golden God, I appoint you as head of constellations.
You are confirmed as Honorable Female God Of North Pole Dippers,
with 84,000 gods of stars under your command. These are the gods
of 5 constellations:
Gods of Eastern Constellation: Su Hu, Jin Kui, Ji Shuming, and
Zhao Bing;
Gods of Western Constellation: Huang Tianlu, Long Huan, Sun
Ziyu, Hu Sheng, and Hu Yunpeng;
Gods of Central Constellation: Lu Renjie, Chao Lei, and Ji
Shusheng;
God Of North Pole, Great Emperor: Ji Bo Yikao;
Gods of South Constellation: Zhou Ji, Hu Lei, Gao Gui, Yu Cheng,
Sun Bao, and Lei Kun;
Gods of Northern Constellation: Huang Tianxiang, Bi Gan (God Of
Culture), Dou Rong (God Of Military Affairs), Han Sheng, Han Bian, Su
Quanzhong, E Shun, Guo Chen, and Dong Zhong;
The male gods and female gods of stars:
God Of Green Dragon Star: Deng Jiugong,
God Of White Tiger Star: Yin Chengxiu,
God Of Red Sparrow Star: Ma Fang,
God Of Mysterious War Star: Xu Kun,
God Of Gone With The Old Star: Lei Peng,
God Of Snake Star: Zhang Shan,
God Of Solar Star: Xu Gai,
Female God Of Lunar Star: Queen Jiang,
God Of Jade Hall Star: Shang Rong,
God Of Heavenly Precious Star: Ji Shuqian,
God Of Dragon Virtue Star: Hong Jin,
Female God Of Red Phoenix Star: Princess Long Ji,
God Of Heavenly Happy Star: King Zhou,
God Of Heavenly Virtue Star: Mei Bo,
God Of Lunar Virtue Star: Xia Zhao,
God Of Heavenly Amnesty Star: Zhao Qi,
Female God Of Upright Behavior Star: Lady Jia (Huang Feihu’s wife),
God Of Metal Mansion Star: Xiao Zhen,
God Of Wooden Mansion Star: Deng Hua,
God Of Water Mansion Star: Yu Yuan,
Female God Of Fire Mansion Star: Mother Fiery God,
God Of Earth Mansion Star (Saturn): Underground Traveler Sun,
Female God Of 6 Combinations Star: Deng Chanyu,
God Of Doctorate Star: Du Yuanxian,
God Of Power Star: Wu Wenhua,
God Of Admonishment Star: Jiao Ge,
God Of River Leading Star: Huang Feibiao,
Female God Of Moon Leading Star: Madam Chedi,
God Of Imperial Coach Star: Jiang Huanchu,
God Of Heavenly Inheritance Star: Huang Feibao,
God Of Imperial Chariot Star: Ding Ce,
God Of Heavenly Horse Star: E Chongyu,
God Of Imperial Favor Star: Li Jin,
God Of Heavenly Medical Star: Qian Bao,
Female God Of Earthly Queen Star: Concubine Huang,
God Of Domestic Dragon Star: Ji Shude,
God Of Dragon Taming Star: Huang Ming,
God Of Station Horse Star: Lei Kai,
God Of Yellow Pennant Star: Wei Ben,
God Of Leopard Tail Star: Wu Qian,
God Of Mourning House Star: Zhang Guifang,
God Of Lamenting Visitor Star: Feng Lin,
God Of Pulling Twisting Star: Fei Zhong,
God Of Rolled Tongue Star: You Hun,
God Of Throat Control Star: Peng Zun,
God Of City Planning Star: Wang Bao,
God Of Flying Curtain Star: Ji Shukun,
God Of Great Spending Star: Chong Houhu,
God Of Minor Spending Star: Yin Pobai,
God Of Linked String Star: Qiu Yin,
God Of Railing Star: Long Anji,
God Of Head Spreading Star: Tai Luan,
God Of 5 Devils Star: Deng Xiu,
God Of Goat Cutlass Star: Zhao Sheng,
God Of Bloody Light Star: Sun Yanhong,
God Of Official Seal Star: Fang Yizhen,
God Of Single Morning Star: Yu Hua,
God Of Heavenly Dog Star: Ji Kang,
God Of Sickness Spell Star: Wang Zuo,
God Of Bone Boring Star: Zhang Feng,
God Of Death Spell Star: Bian Jinlong,
God Of Heavenly Defeat Star: Bai Xianzhong,
God Of Floating Submerging Star: Zheng Chun,
God Of Heavenly Slaying Star: Bian Ji,
God Of Yearly Killing Star: Chen Geng,
God Of Yearly Punishment Star: Xu Fang,
God Of Yearly Breaking Star: Chao Tian,
God Of Lonely Fire Star: Ji Shuyi,
God Of Blood Red Star: Ma Zhong,
God Of Lost God Star: Ouyang Chun,
God Of Monthly Breaking Star: Wang Hu,
Female God Of Monthly Touring Star: Lady Rock,
God Of Dead Air Star: Chen Jizhen,
God Of Salty Pond Star: Xu Zhong,
God Of Monthly Disgusted Star: Yao Zhong,
God Of Monthly Punishment Star: Chen Wu,
God Of Black Killing Star: Gao Jineng,
God Of 7 Murders Star: Zhang Kui,
God Of 5 Grains Star: Yin Hong,
God Of Avoiding Murder Star: Yu Zhong,
God Of Heavenly Punishment Star: Ouyang Tianlu,
God Of Heavenly Net Star: Chen Tong,
God Of Earthly Net Star: Ji Shuji,
God Of Heavenly Space Star: Mei Wu,
God Of Parasol Star: Ao Bing,
God Of 10 Evils Star: Zhou Xin,
Female God Of Silkworm Breeding Star: Huang Yuanji,
Female God Of Peach Blossom Star: Gao Lanying,
Female God Of Broom Star: Lady Ma (Jiang Ziya’s wife),
God Of Great Calamity Star: Li Gen,
God Of Scattering About Star: Han Rong,
God Of Mourning Dress Star: Lin Shan,
God Of 9 Ugliness Star: Dragon Beard Tiger,
Gods Of 3 Corpse Stars: Sa Jian, Sa Qiang, and Sa Yong,
God Of Yin Mistake Star: Jin Cheng,
God Of Yang Error Star: Ma Chenglong,
God Of Cutlass Slaying Star: Gongsun Duo,
God Of 4 Wastes Star: Yuan Hong,
God Of 5 Poverties Star: Sun He,
God Of Earthly Space Empty Star: Mei De,
Female God Of Red Lovely Star: Concubine Yang,
God Of Flowing Haze Star: Wu Rong,
God Of Sleeping Alone Star: Zhu Sheng,
God Of Heavenly Plague Star: Jin Dasheng,
God Of Laying Waste Star: Dai Li,
God Of Fetus God Star: Ji Shuli,
God Of Decision Star: Zhu Zizhen,
God Of Anti Singing Star: Yang Xian,
God Of Promoting Singing Star: Yao Shuliang,
God Of Knife Anvil Star: Chang Hao,
God Of Exterminating Star: Fang Jingyuan,
God Of Yearly Disgusted Star: Peng Zushou,
God Of Breaking Star: Wu Long,
God Of Ox Metal Ox Constellation: Li Hong,
God Of Devil Metal Goat Constellation: Zhao Baigao,
God Of Blundering Metal Dog Constellation: Zhang Xiong,
God Of Haughty Metal Dragon Constellation: Li Daotong,
God Of Female Earth Bat Constellation: Zheng Yuan,
God Of Stomach Earth Pheasant Constellation: Song Geng,
God Of Willow Earth Roebuck Constellation: Wu Kun,
God Of Native Earth Jackal Constellation: Gao Bing,
God Of Star Sun Horse Constellation: Lu Neng,
God Of Heroic Sun Rooster Constellation: Huang Cang,
God Of Vain Sun Rat Constellation: Zhou Bao,
God Of Room Sun Rabbit Constellation: Yao Gongbo,
God Of Completion Moon Crow Constellation: Jin Shengyang,
God Of Danger Moon Swallow Constellation: Hou Taiyi,
God Of Heart Moon Fox Constellation: Su Yuan,
God Of Long Moon Deer Constellation: Xue Ding.
The 36 gods of heavenly gallant stars:
God Of Heavenly Leading Star: Gao Yan,
God Of Heavenly Gallant Star: Huang Zhen,
God Of Heavenly Planning Star: Lu Chang,
God Of Heavenly Leisure Star: Ji Bing,
God Of Heavenly Courageous Star: Yao Gongxiao,
God Of Heavenly Heroic Star: Shi Kuai,
God Of Heavenly Fierce Star: Sun Yi,
God Of Heavenly Mighty Star: Li Bao,
God Of Heavenly Courageous Star: Zhu Yi,
God Of Heavenly Honorable Star: Chen Kan,
God Of Heavenly Rich Star: Li Xian,
God Of Heavenly Full Star: Fang Bao,
God Of Heavenly Lonely Star: Zhan Xiu,
God Of Heavenly Injured Star: Li Hongren,
God Of Heavenly Mystic Star: Wang Longmao,
God Of Heavenly Healthy Star: Deng Yu,
God Of Heavenly Dark Star: Li Xin,
God Of Heavenly Safety Star: Xu Zhengdao,
God Of Heavenly Empty Star: Dian Tong,
God Of Heavenly Swift Star: Wu Xu,
God Of Heavenly Different Star: Lu Zicheng,
God Of Heavenly Demon Star: Ren Laipin,
God Of Heavenly Minute Star: Gong Qing,
God Of Heavenly Contemplating Star: Shan Baizhao,
God Of Heavenly Retreating Star: Gao Ke,
God Of Heavenly Longevity Star: Qi Cheng,
God Of Heavenly Sword Star: Wang Hu,
God Of Heavenly Level Star: Bu Tong,
God Of Heavenly Criminal Star: Yao Gong,
God Of Heavenly Damage Star: Tang Tianzheng,
God Of Heavenly Defeat Star: Shen Li,
God Of Heavenly Imprisonment Star: Wen Jie,
God Of Heavenly Clever Star: Zhang Zhixiong,
God Of Heavenly Violent Star: Bi De,
God Of Heavenly Weeping Star: Liu Da,
God Of Heavenly Skillful Star: Chen Sanyi.
The 72 Gods of Earthly Evil Stars:
God Of Earthly Leading Star: Chen Jizhen,
God Of Earthly Evil Star: Huang Jingyuan,
God Of Earthly Courageous Star: Jia Cheng,
God Of Earthly Heroic Star: Hu Baiyan,
God Of Earthly Gallant Star: Lu Xiude,
God Of Earthly Power Star: Xu Cheng,
God Of Earthly Mighty Star: Sun Xiang,
God Of Earthly Strange Star: Wang Ping,
God Of Earthly Fierce Star: Bai Youhuan,
God Of Earthly Literature Star: Ge Gao,
God Of Earthly Upright Star: Kao Ge,
God Of Earthly Secluded Star: Li Sui,
God Of Earthly Closing Star: Liu Heng,
God Of Earthly Strong Star: Xia Xiang,
God Of Earthly Dark Star: Yu Hui,
God Of Earthly Helping Star: Bao Long,
God Of Earthly Gathering Star: Lu Zhi,
God Of Earthly Assisting Star: Huang Bingqing,
God Of Earthly Safety Star: Zhang Qi,
God Of Earthly God Star: Guo Yi,
God Of Earthly Animal Star: Jin Nandao,
God Of Earthly Minute Star: Chen Yuan,
God Of Earthly Clever Star: Che Kun,
God Of Earthly Violent Star: Sang Chengdao,
God Of Earthly Silent Star: Zhou Geng,
God Of Earthly Mad Star: Qi Gong,
God Of Earthly Rampant Star: Huo Zhiyuan,
God Of Earthly Flying Star: Ye Zhong,
God Of Earthly Walking Star: Gu Zong,
God Of Earthly Skillful Star: Li Chang,
God Of Earthly Bright Star: Fang Ji,
God Of Earthly Progressive Star: Xu Ji,
God Of Earthly Retreating Star: Fan Huan,
God Of Earthly Full Star: Zhuo Gong,
God Of Earthly Successful Star: Kong Cheng,
God Of Earthly Round Star: Yao Jinxiu,
God Of Earthly Disappearing Star: Ning Sanyi,
God Of Earthly Different Star: Yu Zhi,
God Of Earthly Theory Star: Tong Zhen,
God Of Earthly Gallant Star: Yuan Dingxiang,
God Of Earthly Happy Star: Wang Xiang,
God Of Earthly Adroit Star: Geng Yan,
God Of Earthly Swift Star: Xing Sanluan,
God Of Earthly Suppressing Star: Jiang Zhong,
God Of Earthly Detaining Star: Kong Tianzhao,
God Of Earthly Demon Star: Li Yue,
God Of Earthly Creature Star: Gong Qian,
God Of Earthly Tranquil Star: Duan Qing,
God Of Earthly Submitting Star: Men Daozheng,
God Of Earthly Secluded Star: Zu Lin,
God Of Earthly Space Star: Xiao Dian,
God Of Earthly Lonely Star: Wu Siyu,
God Of Earthly Complete Star: Kuang Yu,
God Of Earthly Short Star: Cai Gong,
God Of Earthly Corner Star: Lan Hu,
God Of Earthly Imprisonment Star: Song Lu,
God Of Earthly Treasure Star: Guan Bin,
God Of Earthly Level Star: Long Cheng,
God Of Earthly Damage Star: Huang Wu,
God Of Earthly Slave Star: Kong Daoling,
God Of Earthly Examining Star: Zhang Huan,
God Of Earthly Wicked Star: Li Xin,
God Of Earthly Ghost Star: Xu Shan,
God Of Earthly Counting Star: Ge Fang,
God Of Earthly Punishment Star: Jiao Long,
God Of Earthly Torture Star: Qin Xiang,
God Of Earthly Strong Star: Wu Yangong,
God Of Earthly Inefficient Star: Fan Bin,
God Of Earthly Healthy Star: Ye Jingchang,
God Of Earthly Spending Star: Yao Ye,
God Of Earthly Theft Star: Sun Ji,
God Of Earthly Dog Star: Chen Menggeng.
The Gods of 9 Brightly Shining Stars: Chong Yingbiao, Gao
Xiping, Han Peng, Li Ji, Wang Feng, Liu Jin, Wang Chu, Peng Jiuyuan
and Li Sanyi.
The 5 gods of water virtue stars in the big dipper:
God Of Water Virtue Star: Lu Xiong,
God Of Water Leopard Star: Yang Zhen,
God Of Water Beaver Star: Fang Jiging,
God Of Water Ape Star: Sun Xiang,
God Of Water Earthworm Star: Hu Daoyuan.
The gods of stars and constellations, after hearing the
announcements, kowtowed to express their thanks and left the terrace.
“Lead the gods of year to the terrace for their confirmation,” Jiang
Ziya ordered.
Bai Jian then led Yin Jiao, Yang Ren, and a few others to the terrace.
They knelt down to wait for their orders.
“I declare Yin Jiao as God Of Year. Your duty is to watch over
all that happens in the year, whether good or bad. And I confirm you, Yang
Ren, as God Of 60 Years Cycle. The gods under you will act
according to the decrees of the universe and examine all the good and evil
done by the people. All of you must adhere strictly to your duties. The
gods under your command are:
God on Day Patrol: Wen Liang,
God on Night Patrol: Qiao Kuan,
God for Increasing Happiness: Han Dulong,
God for Reducing Happiness: Xue Ehu,
God Of Doctrine Preaching: Fang Bi,
God Of Vanguard: Fang Xiang,
God on Yearly Duty: Li Bing,
God on Monthly Duty: Huang Chengyi,
God on Daily Duty: Zhou Deng,
God on Hourly Duty: Liu Hong.”
(Later, Yin Jiao God Of Year was over 60 gods of 60 years cycle.
Number 1 in the 60 gods of 60 years cycle was Yang Ren God).
After they had left the terrace, Jiang Ziya ordered, “Lead Wang Mo
and others to the Terrace Of God Confirmation.”
When they had knelt down on the terrace to listen, Jiang said, “I confirm
you 4 as Gods To Guard The Precious Heavenly Firmament. All will
hold the honorable title of Great Saint Commander In Chief.” Wang Mo,
Yang Sen, Gao Tigian, and Li Xingba kowtowed their thanks and left the
terrace.
Jiang Ziya next ordered, “Lead Zhao Gongming and others to the
terrace.”
When they arrived, Jiang Ziya declared, “Zhao Gongming, you are
confirmed as Genuine God Of Profound Dragon Tiger Altar. Your
duties are to welcome the blessings of auspicious happiness and chase
criminals who are fleeing. The names of the 4 other Gods under your
command are:
God Of Welcoming Treasures: Xiao Sheng,
God Of Storing Valuables: Cao Bao,
God Envoy of Welcoming Wealth: Chen Jiugong,
God Officer of Good Market: Yao Shaosi.”
Zhao and the 4 others kowtowed and left the terrace.
“Lead the 4 Mo generals to the Terrace Of God Confirmation,” Jiang Ziya
ordered once again.
In a short while, Bai Jian led Mo Liqing and his 3 brothers to the
terrace. They knelt down to receive their confirmation as gods.
Jiang Ziya declared, “You are named Great Heavenly Kings, who
will guard and serve the western religion of Buddhism, protect the
country and people with earth, water, fire, and wind, and regulate both the
wind and rain. Your posts and duties are as follows:
Mo Liging, you are Developing Heavenly King. You hold the green
light precious sword and are in charge of wind,
Mo Lihong, you are Wide Eyed Heavenly King. You hold the green
jade pipa, and your duty is to regulate wind;
Mo Lihai, you are Literature Heavenly King. You hold the
Precious Universe Disorder Umbrella and are in charge of rain,
Mo Lishou, you are National Protection Heavenly King. You hold
the spotted weasel, and your duty is to adjust rain. You all must
adhere to your duties faithfully.”
The 4 generals kowtowed and left the terrace.
Jiang Ziya then ordered, “Lead Zheng Lun and Chen Qi to the
Terrace Of God Confirmation.”
When both Zheng Lun and Chen Qi came and knelt before him, Jiang
Ziya announced, “I confirm you, because of your wonderful strength, as the
gate gods General Heng and General Ha, to guard the gate of western Buddha’s
residence, to preach the truth, and to protect the precious weapons and
instruments there. You must carry out your duties faithfully.”
Both Zheng Lun and Chen Qi kowtowed and left the terrace. Jiang
Ziya ordered Yu Hualong and others to see him. When they arrived, he
said, “I confirm you, Yu Hualong, as chief god, with the title of Green
Haze Primary King Controller Of Smallpox. You must carry out your duties
with the 5 other gods of smallpox. I confirm your wife, Lady Jin, as
Saint Queen To Protect Sickrooms. The 5 other gods are as follows:
God Of Smallpox In The east: Yu Da,
God Of Smallpox In The west: Yu Zhao,
God Of Smallpox In The south: Yu Guang,
God Of Smallpox In The north: Yu Xian,
God Of Smallpox In The center: Yu De.
You must all fulfil your duties respectfully.”
After the Yu family had left the terrace, High Firmament, Jade
Firmament, and Green Firmament arrived for confirmation as gods. Jiang Ziya announced,
“Your crimes were serious, but you are generously forgiven and honored
with glorious titles. Hereafter, you are to be called Female Gods of
Golden Universe Disorder Dipper. Your duty is to deal with birth.
Everyone, gods, ordinary people, saints, dukes, kings, the rich and the poor,
the clever and the foolish, must all come into this world with the golden
dipper. You, High Firmament, Jade Firmament, and Green Firmament,
must strictly adhere to your duties and respectfully appreciate the favor
gifted to you.”
The 3 Female Gods kowtowed their thanks, and Jiang Ziya finally
ordered Shen Gongbao to ascend the terrace.
When Shen Gongbao had come to kneel before him, Jiang Ziya
pronounced, “Shen Gongbao, you were originally a member of Chan Taoism
but later opposed your own sect. When you were arrested, you
dishonestly made a false oath to cover up your crimes. Knowing that you once
tried to devote yourself to learning the doctrines, we now generously
grant you the title God Of East Sea. Your duties are to watch the
sunrise and sunset, and the water in summer, and the ice in winter. In
addition, you are given the position of Water Dividing General.
You must adhere faithfully to your post.”
After the announcement was over, Shen Gongbao kowtowed and left
the terrace. As soon as all 365 gods were confirmed, they left Mount Qi to
take up their posts. The sad wind and fog disappeared, and the bright sun
shone again from above.
Jiang Ziya went below and gave an order to General Nangong Kuo.
“Invite all the ministers and officials, civil and military, high and low, to
come to Mount Qi tomorrow.”
General Nangong raced to West Qi City to carry out the order. Early
the next day, Jiang Ziya held a conference with his ministers and offi-
cials. He ordered that Fei Lian and E Lai be led before them.
When Fei Lian and E Lai pleaded innocence, Jiang Ziya smiled and
said, “You 2 wicked fellows have committed capital crimes. You tricked
the king and put many loyal ministers to death, leading to the complete
destruction of the Shang Dynasty. Even death is far too light a
punishment for the seriousness of your crimes. Both the nation and the king
were destroyed, and you brought treasures to us in an attempt to buy high
posts in the Zhou Dynasty. Our new king has risen to the throne
according to the will of Heaven and is doing his best to effect reform. We
cannot let you 2 disloyal despicables live any longer to humiliate us.”
Jiang Ziya then ordered, “Take them out and cut their heads off!”
Please read the next chapter if you wish to know how they fared.
written may 11, 2023.
revised may 14, 2023.
text license: public domain.
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