CAODAI. To` an Tˆ.ap

Transcription

1 -DẠI -D AO. TAM K Y ` PH O -D Ọ GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION To` an T.ap In Lai. Theo An Ban Nam 2000 ` M.D. & HONG ` ` M.D. Editors: NGASHA BECK

2 -D anh may lại: Bùi -D ac Hùm Tr`ınh bày: H `ong Lan & Tan Hung X ep chũ: H&L TypeSetter -D ong tạp: H&L ebooker L` am tại: Chicago - U.S.A. Copyright 2006 Hum ` Bui, ` M.D. & H`ong Bui, ` M.D. GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION (CAM NANG HANH ` LE CAO DDÀI) Compiled and translated by HÒNG -D ANG. ` M.D. HÙM -D AC ` M.D. and NGASHA BECK-HUY Suu tap. va` song ngu do B ac S ı HÒNG -D ANG. B ÙI B ac S ı HÙM -D AC ` M.D. và NGASHA BECK-HUY

3 4 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 5 M uc. Luc. - Tables Contents -D AO. CAO -D AI ` L A ` G I? ` WHAT IS CAODAI? INSTRUCTION INSTALLATION OF THE GOD ALTAR RITUALS IN FRONT OF THE GOD ALTAR KINH THIÊN -D AO. - DAILY PRAYERS TO SUPERIOR SPIRITS Ni. em H ong - Incense Offering Khai Kinh - Opening Prayer Kinh Ngoc. Hoang ` Th ọng -D e - Prayer Celebration Of The Supreme Being Kinh Phat. Giao - Prayer For The Way Of Buddha Kinh Tien Giao - Prayer For The Way Of Immortals Kinh Thanh Giao - Prayer For The Way Of Saints B` ai Dang Hoa - Flower Offering B` ai Dang R ou. - Wine Offering B` ai Dang Tra` - Tea Offering Ng u Nguyen. - The Five Vows Ph. at Mau Chon Kinh - True Prayer For The Mor Goddess Kinh Giai Oan - Prayer For The Liberation Karma Kinh Tam Thanh - Prayer for The Holy Shower Kinh Khi -D a Chet R`oi - Prayer For The Dead Kinh C`au Sieu - Prayer For Soul Saving Kinh -D ua Linh Cuu - Prayer For Escorting The Cfin To The Grave Kinh Ha. Huyet. - Prayer For Internment u u u Or Cremation Kinh Khai Cuu - Requiem Opening Prayer Kinh -D. e Nhat Cuu - Prayer For The First Requiem Kinh -D. e Nhi. Cuu - Prayer For The Second Requiem Kinh -D. e Tam Cuu - Prayer For The Third Requiem Kinh -D. e Tu Cuu - Prayer For The Fourth Requiem Kinh -D. e Ngu Cuu - Prayer For The Fifth Requiem Kinh -D. e Luc. Cuu - Prayer For The Sixth Requiem Kinh -D. e That Cuu - Prayer For The Seventh Requiem Kinh -D. e Bat Cuu - Prayer For The Eighth Requiem Kinh -D. e Cuu Cuu - Prayer For The Ninth Requiem Kinh Tieu T ong ` - Prayer For The Minor Beauty Requiem Kinh -D ai. T ong ` - Prayer For The Major Beauty Requiem Di Lac. Chon Kinh - Di Lac True Prayer Kinh Cuu Kho - Prayer For Relieving Sufferings u u KINH THE -D AO. - SECULAR PRAYERS Kinh C`au To Phụ -D a Qui Lieu - Prayer For The Death Of Ancestor Kinh C`au Cha Mẹ -D a Qui Lieu - Prayer For The Death Of Parent Kinh C`au Chòng -D a Qui Lieu - Prayer For

4 6 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 7 The Death Of Husband Kinh C`au Vọ -D a Qui Lieu - Prayer For The Death Of Wife Kinh Vao ` Hoc. - Prayer Before Class Kinh Nhap. Hoi. - Convening Prayer Kinh Xuat Hoi. - Adjourning Prayer Kinh Vào An Com - Prayer Before Meals Kinh Khi An Com R`oi - Prayer After Meals Kinh Khi Di - Ngu - Prayer Before Sleep Kinh Khi Thuc Day. - Prayer After Wakening Up Kinh Khi Ra -D ong ` - Voyager Prayer Kinh Khi Di - V`e - Prayer Upon Return Kinh Hon Phoi - Wedding Prayer u NHUNG LOI ` VANG ` NGOC. - WORDS OF WISDOM Su. Cong B` ınh - Golden Rules T` ınh Th ong Yeu - Love u BAI ` CA - SONG CAODAI, A FAITH OF UNITY RELIGIONS ARE BUT DIVERSE MANIFES- TATIONS OF ONE SAME TRUTH The noble effort CaoDai is to unite all humanity through a common vision Supreme Being, whatever our minor differences, in order to promote peace and understanding throughout world. CaoDai does not seek to create a gray world where all religions are exactly same, only to create a more tolerant world, where all can see each or as sisters and brors from a common divine source reaching out to a common, divine destiny. What is CaoDai? CaoDai is a novel faith originating in Viet- nam, which recognizes God as Source Universe and all souls, origin all religions, Who manifested differently in different epochs and is called by myriad Names. It is a universal faith, which considers all religions One, one same truth expressed under diverse manifesta- tions. It teaches human beings, who all have sprung from same Divine Source, to live in harmony, love, justice and peace; to enjoy universal sisterhood and brorhood; and to cultivate mselves to seek and be reunited with God in ir hearts. CaoDai propounds that God has come and expressed Himself in a new Way or CaoDai faith, in 1926 in Vietnam. "CaoDai" literally means high palace or Supreme Palace or Abode on High where God reigns.

5 H SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION GUIDE TO CAODAI 8 ` B UM ` M.D.-H UI, ` B ONG ` 9 & NGASHA BECK M.D. UI, name, symbolic Gods as used is CaoDai Figuratively, Cao philosophy The taught. being path and as is Dai and Being Supreme between oneness religions. and humanity including universe begin? How did CaoDai CaoDai founded Being Supreme 1926, In are religions all that demonstrate to Vietnam in and moral philosophy The origin. same one indeed from unification developed CaoDai code in Vietday thought schools influential most and Confucian- Christianity, Taoism, Buddhism, nam: a had Chieu Van Ngo ascetic 1920, in was It ism. him that informed who Being Supreme vision One to return should religions worlds all a as this gave and sprang originally y from which Instructions world. to delivered be to message by represented be Almighty The that given were being despite Chieu, Eye. All-Seeing symbol in island beautiful a Quoc, Phu Governor spread in instrumental was Siam, Gulf Eve Christmas On Vietnam. in CaoDai message medi group a to Himself identified Dai Cao 1925, Pham Cu, Quynh Cao included which Saigon in ums an played group This Sang. Hoai Cao and Tac Cong faith structural formation in role essential located are which See Holy and headquarters essentially is CaoDai Vietnam. Province, Ninh Tay in so based being religion, esoteric an heart its at and central At from God. revelation direct on recently and spiritumediums group a exist CaoDai, core Divine. communication with who continue alists scope, grew in movement years fifty For prespowerful 1975 in but influence, and breadth coma Vietnam by in usurped was CaoDai ence however, time, same at based government; munist be to CaoDai awareness for opened was way escaping Souast people multitude spread by period. tumultuous during this Asia new a dawns, millennium as Now to given are messages CaoDai and created is impetus United in as such places, new in people new value discover to beginning are Americans States. CaoDai CaoDai. form esoteric original its little by little disseminating process begins to information esoteric held closely and valuable and influx to itself open to temple first The West. Riverside, in underway is Westerners acceptance ir relate to desire have leaders Its California. so that Americans, in English to traditions esoteric Supreme from received message main and first that Being, The under reunite must and One are all we Divinity, Nameless One a that and delivered, be can (reunificaend that toward practice esoteric path may begin. Being) Supreme with self tion in CaoDai: Goddess Mor Role states: Lao Tse Ching, Tao Te In Tao, Universal not told is can be which Tao The not is named can be which name The Name, Eternal universe; fountainhead is nameless The beings. all Mor is named The as seen is Goddess CaoDai, In

6 10 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 11 manifestation and embodiment outer world (Yin) including entire Universe. In or words, we exist within Her form, and without Her our own manifestations would not be possible. Is this not true definition a Mor? Her domain is that which is visible and manifest: our bodies, our world, and everything visible which it contains. Every CaoDai temple complex contains Her temple and She is worshipped as our Creatrix. In tradition CaoDai, we see All as One; truly both Mor and Far are also one, but we are twin-element beings, dual in our very nature, two eyes and two brains and two genders. As a matter course we will find a way to differentiate all which surrounds us, even that which created us. The unadulterated reality is that The All That Is is that elusive Single Element, One All-Encompassing Eye, One Mind, and no gender. How Do CaoDai Disciples Meditate? Each persons spirit is a part Supreme Beings spirit, however because busy daily secular lives, most fail to pay attention to, recognize pres- ence, or work to develop spiritual body. When drives are physical/sexual, a human fetus (pham thai) is created; when drives are focused toward spiritual, a holy (spiritual) "fetus" (thanh thai), is eventually formed which will be able to grow into Buddhic or spiritually enlightened state. The following describes a commonly used approach which initiates process transferring Tinh, visible vital matter, into Khi, semivisible vital energy, and finally into Than, invisible spiritual energy; thus begins path from mundane to sublime. Initially, it is recommended to meditate upon breath for an average twenty minutes to half an hour daily: 1. Sit with spine and head straight, eyes half open, not focussed on anything, jaw relaxed, mouth closed, with tip tongue lightly touching ro mouth behind front teeth. 2. Inhale gently, directing breath past fire center at heart, where it is imbued with fire principle, to sacral plexus. 3. While gently holding breath for two seconds, transfer energy breath into extremely Yin center at base spine. 4. Exhaling, direct energy flow up through spine into extremely Yang center at top head. Along way energy flow is imbued with water principle, and "steam" from interaction with fire principle helps third eye begin to open. The key to success is absolute sincerity, and becoming one with breath/ energy flow. The esoterist should be sincere in ir goal, which is to come back to true Self in ir heart to be unified with Supreme Being. If All Religions Are Truly One, Why Do Some Aspects CaoDai Seem Unfamiliar? What Would Be The Solution For Humanity? It cannot be denied that CaoDai is Eastern

7 H SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION GUIDE TO CAODAI 12 ` B UM ` M.D.-H UI, ` B ONG ` 13 & NGASHA BECK M.D. UI, reconciliation a ordered first Dai Cao when origin; incorbe to ologies first religions existing Buddhism, East: those be to seemed porated consome caused has etcthis Confucianism, Taoism, se some view we where West, in fusion solely a be must y that reason and beliefs early a like seem CaoDai making ology, CaoDai case. not is however, This, system. belief separate worldunique somewhat a developed has CaoDai beliefs underlying but practice way view and schools many to linked are practices and incorwere y when existent already thought should realize one Westerner a As porated in CaoDai. conparticular any in faith have to necessary not is it that understanding than or CaoDai be to cept Power that worship we though Being Supreme one is re we that and names, various under and means different by Power. that from come all anor to us brings This some be must re that misunderstanding, point Since CaoDai. be to order in procession "conversion" no is re sense, a in "One" already are religions all is belief that since belief, existing an discard to need name. different a under CaoDai albeit CaoDai, also pioneers to made revelations spiritual Early until CaoDai True no is re that indicated CaoDai separate a under CaoDai call to left nothing is re point that at meaning term, coexist will religions all separate truly not are y that understanding with Being Supreme worship all y since all at religions Only. and One Cao beginning very from Even Christians worshipped alongside have Buddhists Dai, Cao followed have They on. so and Taoists and as anor one viewing resisted and ideal Dai condifficult a seems sometimes it But faiths. separate are people most accustomed as so understand, to cept It "m." and "us" worldview ingrained an to as difficulty this through work to patience requires understanding grow. higher a let we understanding, higher this foster to order In encourage to wish would community CaoDai by faiths differing those between understanding or. each about more m learn having believe We one more religions, different studies one more that deepest ir at and nature, in are y that understands one. level, that show also would undertaking an Such ir in divine potential have people all nature, ir in same essentially are and hearts Therefore, respect. and dignity equal deserve so and leaders by instituted dialogue, interfaith an such relapeaceful would lead to religions, different anyone without faiths, different all between tions interfaith This own faith. relinquish his/her to having a through accomplished be also could dialogue benefit that projects charitable interfaith number start to person one is takes it All communities. entire begin and leaders religious local contacting perone begin can understanding and Peace process. eventucan and time, a at contact one time, a at son world. whole ally change Learn More? How Can I 1608 reached at can be M.D., Bui, Hum D. Dr. at and 92373, CA Redlands, Dr., Heights Smiley

8 14 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 15 HumHongBui@aol.com, or HumB630@juno.com NgaSharaNguyet Beck, a volunteer helping to bring CaoDai texts out in English, can be reached at: PO Box 694, Keithville, LA or by at NgashaBeckHuy@wmconnect.com Todd A. Berry, a volunteer helping CaoDai Homepage at can be reached at Faith Unity@yahoo.com Th `ay la ` cac con, cac con la` Thày. I, your Master, am you, you are Me. Message from Cao Dai (God) Cao -D` ai khong phai la` Cao -Dài moi that. la` Cao -Dài. CaoDai without being Cao Dai is true Cao Dai. Ly Thai Bach s spirit Cao -D` ai la` mọt d - ao. duy nhút o mièn -Dông Nam A cong nhạn -D uc Ngoc. Hoang ` Th ọng -D e là ngu `on goc cua can ` khon gioi va` muon loai, ` trong -d o co ton giáo. -D uc Ch ı Ton lap. ra nhi`eu ton giáo kh ac nhau, o vao ` nhung thoi ` ky ` khac nhau. Cao -Dài l` a mot. ton giáo dại - d - `ong voi nguyen ly "Van. Giáo Nh at Lý." -D ao. Cao -D` ai day. con ng oi ` th ong yêu nhau nhu anh chi. em mot. nha, ` voi long ` bác ai va` s c ong b`ınh, va` hien. co Thien Nhan hiep. nhút. CaoDai is a unique religion originating in Souast Asia, which recognizes God as Source Universe and all souls, origin all religions, Who manifested differently in different epochs and is called by myriad Names. CaoDai is a universal religion, which considers all religions One. It teaches human beings, who all have sprung from same Source, to live in harmony, love, jus- tice and peace; to enjoy universal sisterhood and bror- hood; and to cultivate mselves to seek and be reunited with God in ir hearts. u u u ụ

9 16 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 17 U PH ONG PHAP TU HÀNH Th anh ngôn: Ta v`ı lòng d - ai. tù d - ai. bi, lay d - uc hao sanh dụng n en nèn -Dại -D ao. Tam Ky` Pho -D. o, ton chı la` vot ke hũu ph `an vào d. - ia vi. cao thuọng d - e tranh khoi lụ an h`oi va` nâng -d o ke co tánh d - uc vao ` coi an nhan, ` cao hon pham hen ` khó o c oi tr`an n ày". Mục d - ıch toi hau. cua t ın d - `o Cao -D` ai la` thoát v` ong luan hòi d - e tro v`e cung ` Th ọng -D e. -D e th ıch ung voi moi. tr`ınh d. - o tam linh cua chung sanh, dạo - Cao -D` ai chia ph ong phap tu hanh ` ra lam ` hai phàn: I- TU THEO NHON -D AO:. ng oi ` t ın d - `o co l` am tron ` bon phan. lam ` ng òi d - oi voi ban than, gia - d` ınh, xa hoi. va` nhan loai. trong t`ınh th ong yeu va` s c ong b`ınh. - Lam ` lanh ` lanh dũ. - Biet th ong yeu va ` tranh sat hai. chúng sanh, v` ı moi chung sanh la` mot. ph`an chon linh cua Th ọng -D e va` chon linh ay cung nhu chung ta dang - chịu anh h ong cua luat. nhan qua luan hòi. - Giu trai gioi: tuy ` o suc m` ınh, t ın d - `o có th e an chay 10 ngay ` moi thang hoac. giu tr ong ` trai. Giu trai gioi la` ph ong phap k`em che that t`ınh lục d uc,. trau sua than tam cho trong sach.. Hon nua, trai gioi con ` giup chung ta tranh nghiep. sat hai. loai ` vat,. v` ı ch ung no cung co mot. ph`an chon linh cua Th ọng -D e nhu m` ınh. - Giu ngu gioi cam: Kh ong vo co sat hai. chung sanh Kh ong phóng d - ang trom. c áp. Kh ong dam duc. bat chánh. u u u u u u u u u u u u ụ u Kh ong say sua r ou. thịt. Kh ong dung ` loi ` noi lua ` gat. hay hai. ng òi. - Le bai: T ın d - `o cham lo hanh ` le tho` ph ọng -D uc Ch ı Ton ıt nhat moi ngay ` mot. l`an hoac. vao ` gio` T ı (tu` 11 giò d - em toi 1 gio ` sang), hoac. vao ` gio ` Meo. (tu` 5 gio` toi 7 gio ` sang), hoac. vao ` gio ` Ngo. (tu` 11 gio` sáng toi 1 gio` trua), hoac. vao ` gio` Dau. (tu` 5 gio` toi 7 giò chi `eu). Su. le bai tr`ı kinh la` ph ong phap trau tam sua t anh ngay ` cang ` trong sach,. thanh khiet h`au co th ti en tu o Thiên -Dạo. II- TU THEO THIÊN -DẠO: Nhũng d - ao. hũu d - a ven. ph`an nhon d - ao,. nhẹ - g anh gia d` ınh, khong con ` bi. t`ınh rang ` buoc,. mà mu on tien tu sẽ d - oc. truy`en chon pháp d - e cong phu tu luyen. h`au to ngo. chon nhu tu. tánh d - `ong cùng -D uc Ch ı Ton Th ọng -D e, d - e ng oi ` troi ` hiep. mọt, dạt - co giai thoat khoi vong ` sanh tu luan hòi. -D ao. Cao -D` ai co lap. tinh. that, la` nha` thanh tịnh d - e cac t ın d - ò v` ao tu luyẹn. Mu on vao ` tinh. that, cac t ın d - `o phai xu tròn nhon d - ao,. giu trai gioi tu ` sau thang tro len và d - ọc ng òi dạo - d - uc hon m` ınh tien dan cung nhu co mọt -d ao. huu bao họ. u u u u u u e u

10 18 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 19 INSTRUCTION INSTALLATION OF THE GOD ALTAR Choose best, clean and pure place house for altar. The altar is arranged according to following schema: The Divine Eye 2- Thai Cuc lamp (Eternal light) 3- Fruits 4- Flowers 5- Tea Wine 9- Water Yin and Yang candles respectively 11- Incense vase Fruits, tea, and Yin candle are on Yin side. Flowers, pure water, and Yang candle are on Yang side. Flowers represent TINH, physical energy. Wine represents KHI (Chi), vital energy. Tea represents THAN, spiritual energy. TINH, KHI, THAN are three treasures humans and superior spirits For ceremonies at noon and midnight, wine is fered. For ceremonies at 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., tea is fered. There should be five incense sticks in incense vase. The three sticks (closer to Divine Eye) represent three treasures. The five sticks toger represent five kinds KHI (Chi) and five levels cultivation: purification, meditation, enlightenment, wisdom, and liberation or unification with God. INSTALLATION OF THE HO-PHAP ALTAR (only in a temple) The Ho Phap altar is installed at front end temple, opposite to God altar The Ho Phap altar is installed according to following schema: The character KHI (chi) 2- Fruits 3- Flowers 4- Tea 5, 6, 7- Wine 8- Water 9- Incense vase 10, 11- Yin and Yang candles At private home, re is no Ho-Phap altar.

11 20 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 21 HOW TO PERFORM RITUALS IN FRONT OF THE GOD ALTAR HAND JOINING. The left hand represents Yang energy or heaven with its thumb pointing at base 4 th finger (corresponding to year mouse) and or fingers wrapping around thumb. This symbolizes that heaven is created in year mouse. The right hand represents Yin energy, sup- ports and wraps left hand with its thumb pointing at base left index (corresponding to year tiger). This symbolizes that human beings are created in year tiger. Two hands joining represent interaction between Yin and Yang energies for creation heaven, universe, and human beings. Followers with hands joined stand on sides facing center, females on Yin side, males on Yang side, bow one time with hands joined moving from forehead (representing respect to God) toward knees (representing respect to earth) and n resting in front chest (representing respect to humans) at end each bowing. Followers stand in middle facing altar bow three times to altar Followers kneel on floor, make spoken commitment to CaoDai, His teachings (Dharma), and to humanity by putting ir hands in middle, n on left side, n on right side fore- head in praying Nam Mo Phat, Nam Mo Phap, Nam Mo Tang respectively. Next, followers make st spoken greet- ings to: 1- CaoDai 2- Kwan Yin Boddhisattva (representative way Buddhas) 3- Li-Po, representative way Immortals, and Giao Tong CaoDai faith. 4- Kwan Kung, representative way Saints. 5- All or superior spirits. Praying: Followers put ir hands on forehead and pray to CaoDai. Prostration: Followers puts ir hands spread on floor with thumbs - crossing each or, ir head noding 4 times for God, 3 times for Mor Goddess and or supe- rior spirits. Followers stand up, bow three times to God altar, n turn around to Ho Phap altar to bow one time, and finally step out to ir side. HOW TO PERFORM DAILY CEREMONY. Followers perform same rituals in front altar from time when y stand on sides, n in middle until greetings to CaoDai and or superior spirits. After greetings, y start to chant prayers in following orders: 1- Incense fering 2- Prelude 3- Prayer dedicated to CaoDai God 4- Prayer dedicated to way Buddhas

12 22 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK Prayer dedicated to way Immortals 6- Prayer dedicated to way Saints 7- Holy flowers fering (for big ceremonies) 8- Holy wine fering (for 12 a.m. and 12 p.m. daily ceremonies) 9- Holy tea fering (for 6 a. m. and 6 p.m. daily ceremonies) 10- The five vows. All three treasures (flowers, wine, and tea) ferings are performed only in big ceremonies. BIG CEREMONY. On important anniversaries Superior Spirits, on first and 15 th days lunar months, big ceremonies are performed. Before ceremonies, is bell announcing preparation ferings with chanting: In listening to bell and turning to greatest wisdom universe, (V an chung khau hu ong hue. truong can ` khôn). All beings shall reach Nirvana. (Ph ap giái ch ung sanh d - òng d - ang bı ngạn). O! How good! ( An Da` Ra -D D e a. Ta Ba ` Ha). Next is bell announcing ceremony: All world confusion shall hear bell (Nh at vi u am tat giai văn), All living beings shall reach enlightenment (Nhut thiet chung sanh thanh ` chanh giác). O! How good! ( An Da` Ra -D D e a. Ta Ba ` Ha). Then, Thunder Drum and White Jade Bell are stricken in 12 rounds, each round has 12 strikes. Chant for Thunder Drum: The holy drum sounds through cosmic er, (Lôi am thanh co triet. hu không). Wakening all universe (Truy `en tau Can ` Khon gioi thông). With propagation great divine teachings (-D ao. pháp d - uong kim duong chanh giáo). As divine bright light shines to Diamond Palace. (Linh quang chieu dieu. Ngoc. Kinh cung). Chant for White Jade Bell: Holy and miraculous bell sounds through Hell (Th ` an chung th ınh huong phong phong dô). - To liberate all souls (-D. ia tang. khai mon phong xá cô). CaoDai, great way, brings light to dark dimension (Tam ky` van. chuyen Kim quang hiẹn). To guide evil souls to repent and get out darkness (S am hoi am h`on xuat u d - ò). Chant for prayers At end ceremony, a person chants a poem appreciating ceremony with bell announcing end. Praying ceremony well accomplished! All disciples return to ir initial positions with great long lasting blessings (-D` an trang ` vien man chuc sac qui nguyen v ınh moc. tù an phong di - `eu vo thuạn) (he strikes bell at end each verse). As credits from ceremony, blessings are also granted to all humanity. (Thi en phong hai chúng qu oc thoi dan an, h` oi huóng d` - an truong ` tan. thau phap giái) (strike bell). O! How good! ( An Da` Ra -D e Da. Ta Ba` Ha) (strike bell).

13 24 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 25 U NIEM. H ONG INCENSE OFFERING -D ao. goc boi long ` thanh ` t ın hiẹp, L` ong n ong nhang khoi tiep truy`en ra, M` ui h ong lu ngoc. bay xa, K ınh thanh ` c`au nguyen. Tien gia chung lòng. u u Xin Th `an, Thánh ru oi dong coi hạc, Xu ong pham ` tr`an voi. gac xe tiên. Ng` ay nay d. - e tu kh an nguyèn, Ch ın tàng Tròi, -D at th ong truy`en chung tri. L` ong so vong. gang ghi ao cáo, Nhò On Trên b o bao ph oc lành. - d u The basis Tao is SINCERITY and FAITH. As scented cinder smolders into flame, And winding wisp ascends into sky The wafting scent heaven stirs my mind. To Superior Spirits, I respectfully pray: May this gesture sway Their Eminence to stay If but a moment, should y deign to pass this way. And at this time, as a disciple, I entreat The Sky above and Earth beneath my feet. May my heart immersed in hope be recognized As that pure space spirit highly prized. May blessings rain on us a shower love As y make ir calm descent from Up Above.

14 26 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 27 KHAI KINH Bi en tr`an kho voi voi Troi ` n óc, Anh Thai D ong gioi. tr oc ph ong dông - T o Su Thai Th ọng -D úc Ông. Ra tay dãn d. - o, day ` cong giúp d - òi. u u u u u Trong Tam Giáo c o loi ` khuyen dạy G oc boi long ` lam ` phai lam ` lành. Trung Dung Khong Thánh chı rành, Tu` Bi Phạt d. an long ` thanh ` long ` nhon. u u Phép Tiên -Dạo: Tu chon d ong tánh M. ot coi. sanh ba nhanh in nhau L` am ng oi ` ro thau ly sâu Sua long ` trong sach. tung. càu Th anh Kinh. PRELUDE (OPENING PRAYER) An ocean suffering floods horizon Whence beams yet sun But thankfully, Lao Tse guides us in service to humanity, As three great religions have also taught Mainly to be benevolent both character and deed. From Confucius weve learned middle way From The Buddha weve learned compassion; The Way Immortals urges us toward spirituality. From one root spring three counterpart stems. Once it is well-comprehended, We shall purify self and pray:

15 28 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 29 U KINH NGOC. HOANG ` TH ỌNG -D E PRAYER TO THE SUPREME BEING -D ai. La Thiên -D e Th ai Cuc. Thanh Hoàng H oa duc. qu`an sanh Th ong ngu. van. vạt. Di. eu dieu:. "Huynh ` Kim Khuyet" Nguy nguy: "Bach. Ngoc. Kinh" Nh oc. thiet. nh oc. hu, B at ngon nhi mac. tuyên d - ai. hóa. Th. i khong, thi. s ác, V o vi nhi dich. su qu`an linh Thoi ` thua ` luc. long. Du hanh ` bat túc. Kh ı phan tu t ọng, Ho at truy`en vo biên. C` an kien. cao minh. V an. loai. thiẹn ac tat kien, Huy `en pham. quang dại. - Nhut toan hoa. ph oc lap. phân. Th ong. ch ong tam thap. luc. Thiên. Tam thien giái. Hạ oc that thap. nhị -Dịa, Tú d - ai. Bo. Châu. u u u u u u Divine Emperor Great Net; Glorious Supreme Being; Creator all beings; Ruler Infinite; Of Transcendent Golden Abode, In Magnificent White Pearl Palace; At once manifest and unmanifest; Giver unspoken revelation; Omniexistent; Power all Spirit; Rider six dragons in infinite journey; Having dispersed cosmic er to four winds in unlimited expanse, eternally; The Throne God is dominant Above all things, every disposition, And all are rendered justice supreme By Great Scale Unfathomable; Reigning over 36 heavens and 3,000 worlds above, and 72 earths and 4 great dimensions below;

16 30 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 31 Ti en Thien Hau. Thiên T. inh dục -D ai. Tu` Phụ. Kim ng ong, co ng õng. Ph o Te Tong Phap Tông. Nãi Nhut,. Nguyet,. Tinh, Thàn chi quân. Vi Th anh, Th`an, Tien, Phạt chi chu Tr am. tich. chon -Dạo Kh oi mich. ton nghiêm Bi en hoa vo cùng, L u truy`en Buu Kinh d ı giac, Linh oai mac. tr ác, Th ong ` thi th`an giao d ı loi. sanh. H `ong oai, H`ong tù, V o cuc,. vo th ọng, -D ai. Thánh, -D ai. Nguyẹn, -D ai. Tạo, -D ai. Bi. Huy `en Khung Cao Th ọng -D e. Ng oc. Hoang ` t ıch ph oc huu. tọi. -D ai. Thien Tôn. u u u u u u The Great Benefactor has reigned before time and beyond time, Worshipped in every time by all. Now garing all Creation into one family, Is Universe s Supreme Monarch, The Master Above all Enlightened Beings. As Ultimate Tao is revealed in hushed wonder, The Universe shall stand transfixed and transformed to its reaches, By igniting spark which illumines all Mind, The Almighty aids his creations forward. Oh, how majestic, beneficent, supreme and holy is God; A Creative Power so immense and sublime, The Supreme Ruler, Celestial Jade Master; So just in blessing, so fair in mete.

17 32 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 33 TH ICH GI ÁO Hõn d. - on Ton Su, C` an Khon Chu Te. Qui giái u nhut kh ı chi trung. Oc tr`an h òn u song thu chi nọi, Huẹ d - ang bat diẹt, Chi eu Tam thap. luc. thien, chi quang minh, -D ao. phap tr ong ` luu, Khai cuu thap. nhi. Tao ` chi me muọi -D ao. cao vo cục, Gi ao xien hu linh. Th o kh ı thanh ` hòng. Nhi nhut tru. xang thiên. H oa kiem thanh ` x ıch. Nhi tam phan thác dịa, - C ong tham Thai cục. Ph a nhut khieu chi huy`en quang. u u PRAYER IN HONOR OF BUDDHISM Over primordial chaos reigned Supreme Being; A single breath world s common source, All within Almighty s grasp. The inextinguishable flame intelligence Illuminating across all 36 heavens. The Dao flows as an irradiating stream, Lighting way for all beings, Expressing highest truth, Of non-action, and non-reaction. In a single gust wind ( "KHI" flow) Emulating an edifice, As beautiful as a rainbow Supporting horizon. Using sword wisdom As a way to cultivate TINH, KHI, THAN The KHI flow opening third Eye (Monad), And subsequently chakra Huyen Quan (Crown chakra)

18 34 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 35 T anh hiep. vo vi Th ong tam tai ` chi b ı chı. Da - thi hue. trạch. V o l ọng d. - o nhon -D ai. Bi -D ai. Nguyẹn, -D ai. Thánh -D ai. Tù, Ti en Thien Chánh -Dạo, Nhiên -D ang Co Phạt V o vi Xien Giao Thien Tôn. u Unites human essence to The Great Nil; The sky, earth, humanity, All from this lty Source. We are blessed on our path toward Illumination Thanks to immeasurable mercy, inestimable vow. (The great vow Buddha was to save ALL humanity, orwise he will not go to Nirvana) Lord Buddha s sanctity is unbounded, His compassion, unconditional. From original breath life springs Dao; Nhien Dang Co Phat, ( name old time Buddha which means everlasting light) The Great Emptiness pure Dao, The Great Nil true Teaching.

19 36 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 37 TIEN GI ÁO Ti en thien kh ı hóa Th ai Th ọng -D ao. Quân, Th anh bat kha tri C ong bat kha nghị V o vi cu Thai cuc. chi tièn. Huu thı sieu qu`an chon chi th ọng -D ao. cao nhut kh ı Di. eu hoa Tam Thanh -D uc hoan hu linh. Ph ap sieu qu`an Thánh Nh. i ngoat. thap. ngũ Ph an tanh giang sanh, Nhut thân uc vạn. Di. eu huy`en th`an bien Tu kh ı d - ong lai. Quang truyèn dạo - d - úc. Luu sa tây dọ. - Ph ap hoa t ong tông, San Tat Vien, Ph ong Soc chi boi u u u u PRAYER IN HONOR OF TAOISM From Primordial Breath Arose Thai Thuong Dao Quan, (Predecessor to Lao Tse). Of inestimable virtue was he, And so his deeds. Preceding Thai Cuc (Monad) was Dao Nil; Within Dao visible, a transcendent element. The Dao rides upon original breath In transforming into three WAYS cultivation. His virtues brighten dimension Nil, And Dao reigns over saints. On 15th second lunar month, He brought one incarnation to Earth; One soul with a million miraculous transformations, And from East spread purple clouds saintliness Which propagated Tao. Traveling West serving humanity, Using supernatural power he created two figures, Tat Vien and Dong Phuong Soc

20 38 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 39 -D on t ıch duy mang, Khai Thiên -D. ia nhon vat. chi tiên, -D ao. kinh hao. kiep. C` an khon hoat vạn. Nhut. nguyet. chi quang. -D ao. phap bao la. Cuu hoang ` tı to. -D ai. Thien The giái. D ong tung. tù ân. V ınh kiep qu`an sanh, Ng ong ky` huẹ d - úc, -D ai. Thàn, -D ai. Thánh Ch ı cuc. ch ı tôn Ti en Thien chanh nhút Th ai Th ọng -D ao. Quân Ch ong Giao Thien Tôn. u u u u Who taught meditation and metaphysics. The Tao is eternal and primordial, Predecessing mortal beings, Earth and sky; it exists through time As Universe spins And sun and moon shine. The Dao encompasses everything In this immense universe; May all give benediction, As we all have gained from Dao. Oh, Magnanamous One great virtue, Honorable as you are, Oh, pre-existent one, THAI THUONG DAO QUAN Sublimely holding Dao.

21 40 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 41 NHO GI ÁO u Qu e h ong nọi diẹn - V an Thı th ong. cung Cuu thap. ngu hòi Ch ong thien. qua u thi tho chi pho. B a thien van. hóa. B `oi que thọ u am chat chi di - èn. Tu. loi tru b ınh, linh u phung. lãnh. Ch ı nhu y tu, ` t òng u ngao. trụ. Khai nhon tam tat bon u d - oc than chi hieu. Th o. quoc mach. tat tiên u tr ı chua chi trung, Ung mong. bao sanh, Thuy ` tu` man kh -D ai. Nhon, -D ai. Hieu, -D ai. Thánh, -D ai. Tù. Th `an van, Thanh vo, Hieu d - uc trung nhon. V ong Tan sach phụ, Nho Tong khai hóa. V an Tuyen Tu Lọc, Ho ` ang nhon -D e quân, Trung ` chon chanh quang, Buu Quang tu` te Thien Tôn u u u u o PRAYER IN HONOR OF CONFUCIANISM In cinnamon-scented tower Above Palace Van Thi (Confucius) Ninety-five incarnations Sowing charmed poetic seeds. Hundred thousand transformations Manifested lightning quick, And miraculous as a mountain pheasants, Always persevering Expressing a mountain goodwill The goal to cultivate virtue, Bringing honor to parents and Country. Intuiting in dreams way service To one anor. Having compassion for miserable, Building humaneness and piety, Becoming saintly through compassion, Cultivating mind and honor. Piety, virtue, faithfulness, compassion; Even treasure to a king. These are attributes Confucianism. Confucius engendered prosperity human spirit, As a lord who lifts his people. Through purification he gained his insights, As well as sincerity and equanimity, And was sainted refore with deep wisdom and unbounded humanity.

22 42 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 43 BAI ` DANG HOA Tu` bi gi a ngu. rang. mon thièn, -D. e tu mung ` nay huu hue. duyên. N am sac hoa t oi xin kınh lẽ, C ui mong Th ọng -D e r ói an Thiên BAI ` DANG R u u U ỌU Thiên ân hu. e chieu giang thi`en minh, Th` anh kınh tr ong ` xuan ch oc tuu huỳnh. L ac. húng kh au cung giai mien lẽ, Tho at tai ba tánh ng õng an sinh. u u BAI ` DANG TRÀ Mai xuan nguyet. cuc vi. tra` h ong, Kınh lẽ th` anh tam hien buu t ong. Ng ong vong. Tu` Bi gia te ph óc, Khai minh -Dại -Dạo h. o thanh b òng. u u u u u u u FLOWER OFFERING The light god shines upon temple gate. Bearing blooms five colors we come to celebrate; Our brightly petaled homage his ray illuminates As we pray celestial blessings bestow our sanctioned fate. WINE OFFERING Blessings illuminate holy inner shrine; In honor to god we fer fine wine. Gladly prostrating ourselves before divine, We pray for release sufferings humankind. TEA OFFERING We come bringing tea to god s altar; apricot in spring, chrysanmum in fall, Hear our sincere, respectful call Upon merciful god to bless us all The great way a light to pierce pall, may each living being your peace befall.

23 44 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 45 NGU NGUY ẸN Nam mô Nhut nguyẹn: -Dại -D ao. hoang ` khai. Nh` ı nguyẹn: Ph o d. - o chung sanh. Tam nguyẹn: X a tọi d. - e tu. Tu nguyẹn: Thi en ha. thai b` ınh. Ng u nguyẹn: Th anh That an ninh. THE FIVE VOWS We pray that wisdom great Tao Be widely spread on earth. Shining way to all creatures nature s birth. May all humanity be redeemed, And our whole world know peace. And may places we meet to worship You Be granted safety s lease.

24 46 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 47 HOW TO PERFORM THE CEREMONY WORSHIPPING THE MOTHER GODDESS Followers with hands joined stand on sides facing center, females on Yin side, males on Yang side, bow one time with hands joined moving from forehead (representing respect to God) toward knees (representing respect to earth) and n resting in front chest (representing respect to humans) at end each bowing. Followers stand in middle facing altar bow three times to altar. Followers kneel on floor, make spoken commitment to Mor Goddess by putting two joined hands on forehead and bowing one time, n with hands in front chest, make commit- ment to nine female Immortals, and to Saints White Cloud, by bowing one time ter each commitment. Then recite prayers as following: Incense Offering Prayer, Prelude, Prayer to Mor Goddess, Holy Flowers Offering, Holy Wine Offering, Holy Tea Offering, The Five Vows.

25 48 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 49 PHAT. MAU CHON KINH PRAYER IN HONOR OF THE MOTHER GODDESS T ao. hoa Thien Huy`en Vi Thi en Hạu, Ch ong Kim Bàn Ph. at Mau Dieu Tr`ı, Sanh quang d ong duc. qu`an nhi. Chon linh phoi nhut than vi Thanh h` ınh. u u u Thi en Cung xuat Van. linh tung ` pháp, Hiẹp am d ong huu hap. chung sanh, C` an khon san xuat huu h` ınh, B at h`on van. chuyen hoa thanh ` chung sinh. C. ong vat. loai. huy`en linh d - `o nghiẹp, L. ap Tam tài d. - inh kiep hoa ` căn. Chuy en luân d. - inh pham cao thăng. Hu vo bat quai tri. th`an qui nguyên. At Tao Hoa Thien (The Creation and Transformation Heaven) reigns miraculous Supreme Goddess, Who holds Dieu Tri Palace and is called Kim Ban Phat Mau, (Mor Goddess governing five spiritual levels: Mankind, Angels, Saints, Immortals, and Buddhas) With fluid vitality, she raised all her chil- dren; Creating m by uniting spirit (coming from Supreme Being) and physical body. From this heaven is created everything (man, animal, plant and material) By uniting The Yin and Yang. The Mor Goddess gave rise to physical realm, The eight spiritual levels (material, plant, animal, human being, Genie, Saint, Immortal, Buddha) form eight levels beings. Assembling spirits all sentient beings, tak- ing that as her major responsibility, she opened a path in which all spirits assist each or in spiritual progress. The sky, earth, and man have ir destiny drawn by Mor Goddess. Based on karmic law, Mor Goddess determines evolution all spirits. Using Nil to install eight trigrams, Mor Goddess brings spirits back to ir origin (God).

26 50 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 51 Di. et tuc. kiep tr`an duyen oan trái. Ch ong d` - ao tien thu giai tr ong ` tòn. Nghi. ep h`ong van. tu h`oi môn, Ch ı công d. - inh vi. v ınh t`on Thien Cung. u u u u u Chu Am quang th ong ` tung ` Thien mạng, -D. o chon th`an nhut vang nhut lai. Si eu thang phung. lien qui khai, Ti en Cung Phat. xu Cao -D` ai x ong danh. H. oi ng on huu Ch ı Linh huan chúng, -D ai. Long Hoa nhon chung hoa ` Ki (la` co) Tam ky` khai hiep. Thien thi, Khoa mon Tien vi. ngo. ky` Phat. duyên. Trung kho hai d. - o thuy`en bat nhã, Ph oc tu` bi giai qua tru` căn. H on ` h`on chuyen d - oa. vi thăng, Cuu tien h`oi phuc. Kim Ban ` Ch ong Âm. u u u u Th. ap Thien Can bao ham ` van. t ọng, Tùng -D. ia Chi hoa tr ong can ` khôn. Tr` ung h on ` phuc. vi. thien môn, Ng on linh hoa chung quı h`on nhut thăng. V o siêu d - oa. qua can huu pháp, V o kho h` ınh nhon kiep luu oan u u u The Mor Goddess determines spirits incarna- tion based on Karmic law. She holds Dao Tien (Sacred peach which contains all vital fluid) and allows man to try to under- stand what eternal life is. Her great task is to bring spirits back to ir ori- gin. As Master Am Quang (Darkness energy), She guides all spirits back home. If spirits are to ascend to heaven, y will use Phung Lien chariot to open gate. When back to celestial country, Cao Dai will call ir name. At this era, Supreme being comes to teach all beings. At Long Hoa (Dragon Flower) Convention, a general amnesty will occur for all regardless race or creed. The third amnesty begins just as predetermined To lead chosen to Buddhahood. The Mor Goddess guided Bat Nha boat (boat salvation) to save humankind out Ocean sufferings, To liberate m from ir Karmic obligations, To guide ir spirits from hell to heaven. With assistance nine fairies, The Kim Ban Mor Goddess governed Yin energy, Combining ten celestial properties and twelve zodiacs to form universe, and to create path for all spirits, regardless ir level, heavy and dark, Genies, Saints, Immortals, or Buddhas, to return to ir original abode (heaven) Laws regulated, illumination or not,

27 52 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 53 Vô d. - ia nguc,. vo quı quan, Ch ı Tôn d - ai. xa nhut tr ong ` qui nguyên. Chi eu nhu lịnh Tu` Huyên th o. s ác, -D. o anh nhi nam, b ác, d - ong, tây. K` y khai tao. nhut Linh -Dài, Di. et h` ınh ta ` phap c ong ` khai -Dại -D òng. u u Hi. ep van. chung nhut môn d - `ong mạch. Qui thien l ong quyet sach van. trù Xu an Thu, Phat Chu, Bat Du Hi. ep qui Tam Giáo huu c`au Ch ı Chon. u Ph uc. nguyen nhon h on ` t`on Phat. tánh. Gi ao hoa h`on huu hanh. huu duyên. Tr u. can quı kh ı cuu tuyèn, Quang khai thien th ong. tao. quy`en ch ı công. u Lịnh M au Hạu khai Tông dịnh - -Dạo An d ong sanh d - am bao h`on hài, C` an Khon Tao. Hoa sanh tài, Nhut trieu nhut tich. kınh bai ` mo. khang. u u Nam Mo Dieu Tr`ı Kim Mau Tao. Hoa Huy`en Thiên Cam Bái Nam Mô -D ai. Tù -D ai. Bi Nang Hı Xa Thien Hau. Ch ı Tôn, -D ai. Bi -Dại Ái The Mor Goddess worked in eliminating pun- ishment and hell. The Supreme Being granted a general amnesty to bring all humanity to unity with Him. The gentle Mor Goddess received order to lift old and young from all directions South, North, East, and West. Establishing amnesty, abolishing evils, to teach and guide humanity to universal life. Unifying world into one family. Establishing strategies to bring humanity back to good. Bringing Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism to primordial unified truth. Guiding people back to ir buddhahood, Educating people toward felicity. Sequestring demons, Opening gate to heaven, realizing justice for all. The Mor, under order from Supreme Being, came and saved all, Creating and upbringing. What an immense work! We come adoring Mor morning and night. Nam Mo Dieu Tr`ı Kim Mau Tao. Hoa Huy`en Thiên Cam Bái Nam Mô -D ai. Tù -D ai. Bi Nang Hı Xa Thien Hau. Ch ı Tôn, -D ai. Bi -Dại Ái

28 54 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 55 KINH GIAI OAN V` ong xay chuyen vong h`on tan hóa, N ong xac than hiep. nga Can ` Khôn. B óc d - ong ` sanh tu d - a chòn, Oan oan nghiet. nghiet. dap. d`on trai căn. u u u Lu. at nhan qua d - e ran Thánh d - úc, Cua luan h`oi nhac buc. cao siêu. D `au chang phai muc. Thiên di - èu, C ung quy`en tu. chu dat d` ıu thien l ong, D` ong kho hai he th ong ` ch` ım d ám, - Mùi dau - th ong d - a tham chon linh. D ay oan xe chac. buoc. m` ınh, Nhop nho luc. duc. that t`ınh nhiem thân. u u u u u Chịu o tr oc. chon th`an nang. trịu Manh h` ınh hai ` bieng hieu l ong tâm. Phong tr`an quen thu cung âm, Canh thang ngo ngan lac. l`am phong dô. - PRAYER FOR THE LIBERATION OF BAD KARMA Through cycles evolution, spirit progresses, Using physical body as a vehicle for union with universe. The steps life and death are tiring, With accumulation karma, and karma, and karma. The karma law is to discipline virtuous, And reincarnation law is to remind advanced souls (about karma law). The implementation divine rules Is a voluntary way to guide souls according to ir conscience. Being sunk in ocean sufferance The souls are deeply impregnated with sufferings. The string bad karma tightens human souls to earth And spoil m with six greeds and seven adverse emotions. The impurity weights on souls And veils conscience. Physical bodies get used to material entertainments Could not be liberated and n get lost in Hell.

29 56 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 57 Kh oi trai chu nhan lo vay tra, Moi gay nen nhan qua nọ d - òi. Ranh m` ınh dâu - d. - ang thanh thoi, Thi en cung lo loi choi voi coi tràn. May d. - ang gap. hòn an chan r ói, Giai trai oan sanh. toi. ti`en khiên. -Dóng d. - ia nguc,. mo t`ang Thiên, Khai d - ong ` Cuc. lac,. dan mi`en Tay Ph u u Nh. ap Thanh dò d - ong ` cuu. vị, Noi Chon Truy`en khu quı tru` ma. Hu. e quang chieu thau chanh tà, Ch` eo thuy`en Bat Nha Ngan Hà d. - o sanh. u u ong. Cu noi bong Ch ı Linh soi b óc, G. oi mê d - `o tam n oc Ma Ha Liên d` - ai may no m hoa, Lão Dam - cung biet, Th ıch Gia` cung quen. Nam Mo Cao u -D` ai Ti u ên Ông -D ai. B`o Tat Human souls keep being involved in karma law. One has to pay back bad karma to attain liberation. Although free body attachment (after death), one may not be liberated, And path to Heaven is not drawn, while stay on earth is uncertain. Fortunately, humans are showered with divine blessings Which wash away bad karma. Hell is barred and Heaven opened. The way to Nirvana is ahead. Toward unity with divinity, one may find way back to original position Following divine principle to control bad spirits. The divine light shines clearly through good and bad. Rowing boat salvation, one extends help to all living beings. Following path traced by Supreme Being, The confusion is washed away by Holy water. In Nirvana, one more flower has bloomed, Who will get acquaintance to Lao Tse and Gautama Buddha. Nam Mo Cao -D` ai Ti ên Ông -D ai. B`o Tat

30 58 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 59 KINH TAM THÁNH Nhung van. vạt Am D ong tao. hóa, D `au co cay hoa qua bien sanh. Con ng òi d - ung pham toi linh, Nua ng oi ` nua Phat. noi m` ınh anh nhi. u u u -D ai. Tu ` Phu. tu ` bi tao. hóa, T ong. manh than giong ca Can ` Khôn. V en. toàn d - u xác d - u hòn, X ay co chuyen bao t`on van. linh. u Xin g`ın giu Thanh h` ınh trong sạch, Xin xá an rua sach. ti`en khiên. C an xua v ı du cung hièn, D `au ra cua tọi d - u quy`en cao siêu. u u C ong nuoi d ong nang niu kho nhọc, Ph ep th ong yeu cung hoc. noi Thày. PRAYER FOR HOLY SHOWER. All beings in universe are created from Yin and Yang energies, Including vegetables and flowers. Being most sacred being among m, Human being is half Evil and half Buddha. With love, great gentle Far God created Human body based on image Himself. Completely created with physical body and soul, Human being shall evolve to conserve life. Please bless child to keep his/her body clean, Please grant him/her amnesty to wash all his/her karma. No matter if soul came from evil, it shall become good. Despite his/her previous crime, he/she shall acquire celestial power. Thanks to all hard works parents in his/her raising, The child shall have opportunity to learn love lessons from Master God.

31 60 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 61 Sanh noi dây, - o noi dây, - Tr am nam la` tuoi d - u d - `ay mang. căn. Ch on h`ong tr`an quen lan ` gio bụi, Canh phu` ba may rui cung duyên. -D a gan doc kiem dieu. huyèn, Sanh sanh la` phan,. hi`en hi`en la` công. -D ung ` thoi ch ı nga long ` tro gót, -D e cho d - oi ` chua xot t`ınh th ong, Tr am nam tho. khao v ınh tr òng, Thu. an can thuan. mạng dôi - d - ong ` cao thăng. Nam Mo Cao -D` ai Ti u u u ên Ông -D ai. B`o Tat Being born here, child shall live here For a 100 year life span to reach his/her destiny. All hardships life on earth with ups and downs Are predetermined by Karma. You have to have courage to use sword wisdom In conservation life and service humanity. Dont be discouraged and quit Leaving your family in regret and suffering. Enjoy your 100 year life To complete your duty and pay f your karma in order to return to your original sacred haven. Nam Mo Cao -D` ai Ti ên Ông -D ai. B`o Tat

32 62 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 63 KINH KHI -D A CHET RÒI. u Ba m oi sau coi Thien Tào, Nh. ap trong Bat Quai moi vao ` Ngoc. Hu. Qu e xua tro, cõi d - oa. tù, -Do at. co thoat tuc. bay chu` tuyet. luân. D oi ch ın lop lien thàn d - ua r óc, Tr en h`ong quang phu ph oc tieu diêu. Linh Tiêu -Di. en, bang danh nêu, Nguy en căn d - ep. ve my mi`eu cao thăng. u Kinh Bach. Ngoc. muon l àn di - en chieu, K eu chon h`on vin. n ıu chon linh, N ang lai nang khu khinh khinh, Mau nhu di - en chieu nhe. thanh ` bong mây. u Cua Tay Ph ong kha bay d - en chon, Di. et tr`an t`ınh vui h ong tieu diêu, Ti en phong Phat. cot my mièu, V` ao kinh Bach. Ngoc. le tri`eu Ch ı Linh. u u u PRAYER FOR THE DEAD. Through thirty six celestial worlds, The soul penetrates Octagonal Palace and n Jade Palace, Leaving this suffering earth to return to its origin. Below is greeting Superior Spirits, Above is blessing light. Your name is magnificently posted in Court God. The Jade Palace is full bright light, Being one with spirit, The second body is light and fast like flashing light, Reaches gate West, Leaves all earthly attachments behind to enjoy Nirvana, And enters Jade Palace to meet Almighty. Nam Mo Cao -D` ai Ti ên Ông -D ai. B`o Tat Nam Mo Cao -D` ai Ti ên Ông -D ai. B`o Tat

33 64 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 65 KINH CAU ` SIÊU -D `au vong. bai Tay Ph ong Phat. To, A Di -D` a Phạt d. - o chung dân, Quan The Am lan mãn an càn. Vot le thu kho tràn d - oa. lạc. -D ai. Thánh -D. ia Tang. V ong B`o Tát, B o tu` bi te bat. vong hòn. Cuu kho nan ` Thái At Thien Tôn, Mi èn am canh nguc. mon khai giai. On -D ong Nhạc -D e Quan quang dại, - -D. o ke lanh ` che cai tai ong. Ch on Dạ d` - ai Thạp -Di. en Tu` V ong Th ay h` ınh kho long ` th ong tham thiet. u u u u u Giam h` ınh phat. bót d - ong ` ly tiet, X a linh quang tieu diet. ti`en khiên, -D. ang nhe. nhang ` thang d - en cung tiên. Noi ph óc dịa - o yen tu luyẹn, u u Xin Troi ` Phat. chung long ` so nguyẹn, H. o th ong sanh u hien kh ong ninh. u u PRAYER FOR SOUL SAVING. We pray to Buddha West who guides all beings, To Kwan Yin who heartily saves poor souls from suffering worlds, To Great Bodhisattva Governor Hell Who through mercy elevates falling souls, To Thai At Celestial Governor who frees souls from Hell, To generous Dong Nhac De Quan Who resolves disasters to help people, And to Emperor Ten Court Hell Who opens his heart to alleviate tragic punishments, And neutralize all karma So that souls may go straight to Nirvana, world blessing Where y may stay for furr cultivation. May Almighty accept our sincerity And free soul from sufferings.

34 66 GUIDE TO CAODAI SPIRITUAL CELEBRATION ` M.D. & NGASHA BECK 67 KINH -D UA LINH CŨU C `au các d - ang Th`an Linh tro. lịnh, Giu chon h`on xa lanh xac tràn. Nam Mô -D. ia Tang. thi ân, -D ua d - ong ` Thien Canh, lanh g`an Phong -Dô. u Nam Mo Tam Tran hu vô, Oai nghiêm d. - o roi Cao d - `o qui nguyên. Nam Mo Tam Giao dieu. huyèn, Tuy. et luan Bat Nhã d - ua thuyèn d. - o vong Nam Mo Bach. Ngoc. Công d - òng, Th `an, Tien, Thanh, Phat. mo vong ` trai oan. Nam Mo Th ọng -D e Ngoc. Hoàng, Mo co tạn d. - o nhe. nhang ` chon linh. u Cua Cuc. Lac. thinh thinh rong. mo, R oc vong h`on lui tro ngoi xua. T` oa sen bau vat. xin d - ua. Chon linh an ngu. cho vua ` qua duyên. u PRAYER FOR ESCORTING THE COFFIN TO THE GRAVE We pray to Superior Spirits To help guard soul from attachment to physical body. We pray to Boddhisattva Governor Hell To graciously show way to Nirvana And prevent soul from approaching Hell. We pray to Three Sect Governors CaoDai, To guide soul disciple back to its divine origin. We pray to three miraculous faiths To allow soul to ride Saving Boat. We pray to Superior Spirits Jade Court To please untie karmic attachment. We pray to Jade Emperor to widely open gate Nirvana For soul to return to its original position. Dear soul, may you have a peaceful ride On precious Lotus Throne According to your karma. Nam Mo Cao -D` ai Ti ên Ông -D ai. B`o Tat Nam Mo Cao -D` ai Ti ên Ông -D ai. B`o Tat