Incantation for Calling the Names of the Six Ding Spirits when Setting Out

In all matters of combat and deploying troopsOriginal: Xingshi. This refers to the movement of an army or the commencement of a military campaign., one should always set out toward the direction where the Six Ding spirits of Heaven reside; in a hundred matters, all will be auspicious. Therefore, the scripture says: "He who knows the Six Ding can emerge from the shadows and enter the depths; even unto old age, he shall suffer no legal punishment. Though a blade be held against his neck, he remains peaceful and unafraid."

It is also said: "The Six Ding are the Yin aspect of the Six JiaThe Six Jia (Yang) and Six Ding (Yin) are celestial deities in Daoist practice representing the stems and branches of the sexagenary cycle. The Ding spirits are often viewed as 'Maiden' spirits who provide protection and concealment.. With them, one can dwell in harmony with the Sun and Moon; one should not speak of the Yin of the Six Jia to another even for a thousand pieces of gold."

Whenever entering or exiting during the hours of the Six Ding, call out the name of the spirit the spirit names appear previously and recite this incantation:

"May the Spirit [Name] cover and protect the body of your great-grandson [Your Name], Original: Zengsun (Great-grandson). In Daoist rituals, the practitioner often addresses the gods as a descendant to show humility and filial piety. as well as the gathered military host, so that the enemy cannot see them."

One should perform a sacrificeOriginal: Ci. A ritual offering or service to a deity. by offering three pours of clear wine and burning ritual money. Bow twice and perform the Steps of Yu Original: Yubu. The 'Pace of Yu' is a distinctive limping gait used by Daoist ritualists to pace out the stars of the Big Dipper, granting them the power to command spirits and move between worlds. while reciting the incantation three times. Upon setting out, your form will be invisible to others.