How to Respect the Jade Emperor

The Jade Emperor originated in ancient Chinese mythology and is part of the Taoist religion. He is believed to rule over Heaven and Earth just as the human emperors ruled over China.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Show respect on his birthday which is the 9th day of the first lunar month, usually near the first day of Spring. Fast the night before. After midnight, be led by your head-of-household to the shrine for incense burning and prostrations.

2. Offer the Jade Emperor red rice cakes in the shape of tortoise shells on his birthday. Observe abstinences and taboos on this day.

3. Ask the Jade Emperor for repentance on his birthday. Thank him for protection from evils and disasters, as well as for blessings and answering prayers.

4. Welcome the Jade Emperor on Chinese New Year's Eve when he visits homes to observe good or evil. Burn incense and place food offerings for him on the table.

5. Include other Taoist deities in your worship of the Jade Emperor, if you like--but make sure the Jade Emperor is always held in highest respect.

Tips & Warnings

• The Jade Emperor is the highest ruler of the Taoist heavens except for the Three Pure Ones, but they act more as elemental forces than rulers.
• The Jade Emperor and Chinese pantheon of gods originated in ancient times and over time reflected the political structure of China.
• It is believed that the Jade Emperor can only be approached by the earthly emperor himself.
• Travel to Kaohsiung, Taiwan to visit the Kaohsiung Jade Palace. Worship the Pure August Jade Emperor there, and your bad luck will be eliminated.