Sanqing is the Taoist name for the three highest deities known as the Three Pure Ones.
The Chinese term Sanqing means “Three Pure Ones” or “Three Clarities.” In religious Taoism, the Three Pure Ones occupy the highest level of the celestial pantheon. They are usually identified as Yuanshi Tianzun, Lingbao Tianzun, and Daode Tianzun, although their roles and descriptions developed over time.
The Three Pure Ones are associated with major stages or dimensions of Taoist revelation. Daode Tianzun is commonly linked with Laozi, who is understood in religious Taoism as a divine manifestation rather than only as a historical philosopher. The three deities are also connected with the Taoist scriptures and the three major “caves” or divisions of the classical canon.
Sanqing should not be confused with the Three Officials, called Sanguan, who govern different aspects of heaven, earth, and water. It is also distinct from the Jade Emperor, another major Taoist deity who traditionally administers the celestial bureaucracy but is not one of the Three Pure Ones.