Holy Edict Stele of Taiqing Palace

Holy Edict Stele of Taiqing Palace

The Holy Edict Stele of Taiqing Palace is a cultural tourism attraction.

The stele is rectangular, measuring 0.60 meters in height and 0.96 meters in width, carved from bluestone. The inscription is in regular script, with 18 lines and 12 characters per line, constituting an imperial decree issued by the central government of the Yuan Dynasty to protect Taiqing Palace. The decree was promulgated on April 27, the second year of the Zhongtong era of the Yuan Dynasty (1261 AD). The stele is now well-preserved and embedded in the right side railing wall in front of the Taiji Hall of Taiqing Palace. (Stele text included)

Holy Edict Stele

Under the Eternal Heaven (six characters skipped below)

Imperial Decree: According to the report submitted by Taoist Master Zhang of Bozhou

The abbot and Taoist priests of Taiqing Palace in Bozhou

Were granted an imperial order that envoys and military troops are not

allowed to lodge within the palace grounds, and all planted trees must not

be cut down by anyone. These trees are exclusively dedicated to

the royal family’s prayers to Heaven and wishes for longevity. The original imperial order

has now been submitted and received as requested.

It is hereby ordered that the Taoist priests of Taiqing Palace in Bozhou shall

follow the previous regulations: envoys and military troops

are not permitted to lodge, and all trees must not

be felled by anyone, regardless of their status.

Furthermore, Zhang Batur is ordered to

constantly protect Taiqing Palace, and the residing Taoist community

is to recite scriptures with even greater devotion,

praying for the eternal blessing of the royal descendants (five characters skipped below)

Do not allow negligence.

Imperial Seal

27th day of the 4th month, 2nd year of Zhongtong era

Source: Luoyi County People's Government Website