Stepping into the vast treasury of the Daozang feels a bit like browsing an epic celestial yearbook—certain figures inevitably steal the spotlight:

• The Three Pure Ones (San Qing)
– Yuanshi Tianzun (Heavenly Jade Pure One): Primordial source, often invoked at New Year’s temple fairs in Taiwan today.
– Lingbao Tianzun (Numinous Treasure Pure One): Keeper of sacred rituals and liturgies, whose verses still echo through modern retreats.
– Daode Tianzun (Supreme Pure One of the Tao and its Virtue): The deified Laozi, cast as both sage and guide.

• Jade Emperor (Yuhuang Dadi)
Often addressed as “Heavenly Grandfather,” he presides over the pantheon’s bureaucracy. During February’s Lantern Festivals in Hong Kong this year, his altars brimmed with offerings—proof that even in 2025, his reign carries weight.

• Queen Mother of the West (Xiwangmu) and Doumu
Xiwangmu appears less in Daozang texts but looms large in folk belief, while Doumu—her cosmic counterpart—receives detailed ritual manuals for safeguarding life and stars.

• The Eight Immortals (Ba Xian)
Lü Dongbin, Li Tieguai, He Xiangu, Zhang Guolao, Han Xiangzi, Lan Caihe, Cao Guojiu, and Zhongli Quan form the ultimate ensemble cast. Their tales of overcoming adversity still inspire practitioners—especially at coastal temples in Fujian where their images ride the waves on ceremonial boats.

• Zhang Sanfeng and the Internal Alchemists
Zhang Sanfeng, legendary founder of Taijiquan, straddles history and myth. Alongside figures like Wei Boyang and Ge Hong, he anchors the Daozang’s alchemical and meditative chapters—subjects buzzing in Beijing’s wellness circles today.

• Wusheng Laomu and Celestial Masters
Wusheng Laomu (“Unborn Venerable Mother”) and Zhang Daoling, the first Tianshi, round out the lineup. Their inclusion highlights how the Daozang weaves cosmic motherhood with early organized orders of clergy.

These deities and immortals aren’t dusty relics. From pilgrimages in Sichuan’s mountains to virtual ceremonies streamed on WeChat, their presence continues to guide seekers along the ever-flowing current of Tao.