Deities and Faith
What does the scripture mean by saying immortals who attain the Dao are recommended by the Three Officials?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
We can first understand recommendation by the Three Officials as examination by them, followed by nomination and reporting upward. In this faith account, reaching spiritual fruition and attaining the Dao is not established merely by declaring oneself accomplished. It also involves examination and recommendation.
Why the Three Officials? In introducing them, I first explain that they oversee heaven, earth and water and assist the Jade Emperor in administration. People in the past understood the divine world through the human principle of divided responsibilities and assistance in governing. Following this context makes their role in the scripture easier to understand.
Scriptures often explain principles through questions and answers: one immortal asks and a deity responds. Encountering this phrase, first understand that it concerns examination and recommendation after attaining the Dao. This also helps us recognise the Three Officials’ responsibilities in that passage.