The Three Celestial Emperors are three highly respected and influential deities in Taoism and folk beliefs. They respectively govern the heavens, the earth, and the waters, hence they are commonly known as the “Three Sovereigns”. They are the core deities who control the fortune and misfortune of the world, save sinners and grant pardons, and bestow blessings. Their beliefs are extremely widespread. The three emperors are as follows:
The Heavenly Official, Purple Microsystem Emperor: Also known as “The First Rank Official of the Upper Festival Bestowing Blessings”, he governs the heavens and the records of the merits and demerits of all beings. He can bestow blessings and pardon sins. His most famous duty is “Bestowing Blessings by the Heavenly Official”, which makes him the most popular among the people. His birthday is the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the first lunar month, which is also called the “Upper Festival”. People will light lanterns to celebrate and pray for the blessings from the Heavenly Official.
Dì Guān Qingxū Emperor: The full name is “Second-Class Punishment-Granting Earth Official”. He governs the earth realm and the five great mountains, and is in charge of the souls of the deceased. His main function is to pardon the sins of the deceased souls. His birthday is the Mid-Autumn Festival on the 15th day of the seventh lunar month, which is also known as the “Ghost Festival”. On this day, Taoist temples hold ceremonies to pray for the souls of the lonely; among the common people, they also worship their ancestors and offer food, praying that the Earth Official will pardon the sins of their ancestors and allow them to rest in peace.
Yushangdong Yin Dadi: Also known as “The Third Rank Under Heaven Demon-Dispelling Water Official”, he governs the water realm, encompassing rivers, lakes, seas, and oceans. His main duties are to relieve disasters and solve problems. His birthday is on the 15th day of the tenth lunar month, which is the Under Heaven Festival. On this day, people offer sacrifices to the water official, praying to remove hardships and disasters in their lives, as well as to ensure the peace of water bodies and safe navigation.
