《紫微斗数》

Purple Star Astrology

The Purple Star Astrology appears in the Daoist ritual texts section of the Chinese Daoist Canon.

Purple Star Astrology, Volume One

On the Order of Fate Calculation

To calculate a fate chart, first establish the exact time of birth, then arrange the Four Pillars from the year, month, day, and hour of birth. Next determine the fate pattern, position the stars, establish the Life Palace, calculate the major cycles and age limits, and mark the transforming stars—the symbols formed by changes in the stars. Then assess what is favorable and unfavorable, and finally infer good or ill fortune.

First, examine the strength of the Four Pillars.

Determine whether the Day Master—the Heavenly Stem representing the person in the Four Pillars—is strong or weak. Also examine relationships such as punishment, clash, break, and harm, as well as combinations such as the Three Harmonies and Six Harmonies. Assess how baleful influences change, how strong and deep their effects are, and the fate’s advances and retreats, its activation, its storage in tombs and treasuries, and its emptiness—a weakened or unrealized state in fate calculation.

Second, examine the fate pattern and useful element.

Analyze patterns involving wealth, official status, resource, output, injury, restraint, direct and indirect influences, peer and robbing influences, and the owl and defeat stars, as well as what the Day Master produces. Also examine such star spirits as Heavenly Virtue, Monthly Virtue, Annual Virtue, Virtue and Excellence, Nobility, Prosperity, Blade, and Balefulness, along with whether Prosperity and Horse are favorable or adverse. Special patterns such as Metal Spirit and Kui Gang, as well as the Arching pattern, Well Rail, Reverse Clash, Flying Heaven, Mixed Qi, Facing the Sun, Dragon’s Back, Distant Si, and Approaching Qian, must also be assessed together. Distinguish as well between following patterns and abandoned patterns, and determine which factors should be discarded or retained.

Third, examine the Life Palace, emptiness, and noble stars.

Consider the stars governing the Life Palace, the Three Directions and Four Correct Positions—the Life Palace and its related palaces—and the generating and overcoming relationships among the cycles and limits. Also examine the people and affairs represented by the Twelve Palaces, the states of the Twelve Growth Phases, and the stars ahead of the Horse. Pay attention as well to baleful stars, tombs and treasuries, and positions of Prosperity; use chart comparison to judge whether the Five Phases can mediate and harmonize one another.

Fourth, examine the circumstances of close relations.

Assess the number, quality, and strength of close relations, and the successes and failures indicated when associated stars are in states such as Death or Extinction. Also consider patterns such as Yin-Yang Mismatch, as well as temperament and appearance.

Fifth, examine the rise and decline of the cycles.

Analyze whether the cycles bring support or depletion, combination or overcoming, favorable movement or deviation, and consider the effects of tombs and treasuries.

Sixth, examine the stars governing each limit and their aspects.

Judge the quality, strength, successes, and failures associated with the relevant stars, and consider Yin-Yang Mismatch, temperament, appearance, and related factors. Then determine whether the stars governing a limit aspect the fate chart, and examine Ghost Defeat, clashes and offenses, reverse recitation, hidden recitation, and the Heavenly Net and Earthly Snare. Together with the aspects of baleful stars and tomb positions, these factors indicate the fluctuations of fortune and misfortune.

Seventh, examine the annual stars and palaces.

Consider whether the annual cycle and the Day Pillar mutually afflict or offend one another; the influence of auspicious and inauspicious stars; whether the Grand Year arrives together with baleful stars; and the punishments and combinations involving the Day Master, as well as support or harm between the annual cycle and the fate chart.

Eighth, examine the baleful spirits governing the reversal of the limits.

Without aid, the roof beams are exhausted and the horses collapse, leaving a situation that is difficult to sustain. When a star governing adversity takes charge, one must see whether its transformed star (the auspicious or inauspicious nature that a star acquires through transformation) is favorable or harmful, and whether the fortune periods (the fortunes associated with different stages of life) are unfavorable.

Ninth, determine whether one will encounter such circumstances as a displaced neck or consolation.

Encountering a tiger or a snake may lead to hanging injuries to the legs and feet, or even to self-inflicted cuts. One may also drown, suffer disaster from boiling water or fire, or fall into prison and face beheading or hanging. One may die unjustly by the roadside, or even be buried without a coffin.

Tenth, infer the fate and fortune periods surrounding death, and calculate the year, month, day, and hour when it will come to pass.

Method for Calculating Age by Birth Year

At age ten, begin with the Jiaxu year; at age twenty, count backward from Jiazi.

Age thirty falls at Jiayin; for age forty, begin from Jiachen.

At age fifty, use Jiawu as the starting point; at age sixty, begin from Jiazi in the Shen position (the first of the sixty-year cycle).

Proceed in order to the year of birth to determine the age at that time.

First method: Identify which Jiazi cycle year the birth year belongs to. Starting from the Heavenly Stem associated with that Jiazi, proceed in order to Jia, then note which Earthly Branch it falls on. Then use Jiawu for age fifty and Jiazi in the Shen position for age sixty as reference points.

Second method: First identify which Jiazi cycle year the birth year belongs to, then proceed in order to Jia and determine the Earthly Branch corresponding to Jia. From the position of this Jia, count backward to the Earthly Branch of the birth year to find the corresponding age.

Example for Inferring the Time of a Child’s Birth

A child born during the Zi, Wu, Mao, or You hour has a rounded, well-shaped head and a flat crown, and faces the father at birth.

A child born during the Yin, Shen, Si, or Hai hour has a double crown. Half the body inclines toward the father, and the child is of medium build.

A child born during the Chen, Xu, Chou, or Wei hour has a slanted crown and faces away from the father at birth; such children are usually stout.

Examples for Determining the Hour

Midnight is the Zi hour, and cockcrow is the Chou hour; daybreak is the Yin hour, and sunrise is the Mao hour.

Breakfast time falls in the Chen hour, noon is the Wu hour, and the time when the sun’s shadow slants is the Wei hour.

Dusk is the Xu hour, and bedtime is the Hai hour; the late afternoon period (the Shen hour, approximately three to five o’clock) is the Shen hour, and sunset is the You hour.

General Discussion of the Degree of the Fateful Star at the Hour

Heavenly Store Palace

At the fourth quarter of the Zi hour, the mother is affected first at the time of birth. Throughout life, this person’s plans and undertakings often advance and retreat, with both successes and failures. Relations with the six close kin are seldom harmonious; clothing, food, and stipend are insufficient, and there is little affection among siblings.

Heavenly Thread

Those born in the middle four quarters of the Zi hour have no obvious afflictions or losses. Their affairs often have ups and downs, but life tends to go more smoothly in old age. Their fate includes livestock, farmland, and property, though their ties with siblings are weak and they have little support.

Those born in the final four quarters of the Zi hour have a weaker bond with their father. Their siblings cannot offer much help, their children come late, and life is full of toil. They often begin things with energy but struggle to keep going. They are suited to leaving their birth family to be raised by another household or to inherit its family line. They are distant from their close relatives and have little support.

Hongluan Palace

Those born in the final four quarters of the Zi hour have a weaker bond with their father. Their siblings cannot offer much help, their children come late, and life is full of toil. They often begin things with energy but struggle to keep going. They are suited to leaving their birth family to be raised by another household or to inherit its family line. They are distant from their close relatives and have little support.

Those born in the first four quarters of the Chou hour have no obvious afflictions or losses. They have ample food, clothing, and income, can inherit the family estate, and are accomplished in both literary and martial arts. They also find it easy to gain the favor of influential people. However, their children may face misfortune, and their ties with close relatives and siblings are somewhat distant.

Those born in the middle four quarters of the Chou hour have a weaker bond with their father. They lack sufficient food and clothing and are unlikely to inherit the family estate; success comes later in life. They receive little help from others and often experience worry and resentment, and they may easily become embroiled in disputes. Kindhearted and plainspoken, they are not good at keeping things to themselves. Their ties with siblings and close relatives are cool. They must make their own way in life, but their later years are more auspicious. Having children may be difficult, so they are advised to have them later.

Those born in the final four quarters of the Chou hour have a weaker bond with their mother. Their close relatives cannot offer much help, and their siblings lack affection. They are kindhearted and plainspoken, have enough food and clothing, and can gain the favor of influential people. They can make a living through their skills, but are likely to have few children.

Sky Void Star

Those born in the first four quarters of the Yin hour have a weaker bond with their father and little support from close relatives. Their youth is arduous, and they must make their own way in life. They lack sufficient food and clothing and have many worries. They can prosper and enjoy good fortune in their later years, but are unlikely to inherit the family estate.

Sky Void Star

Those born in the first four quarters of the Yin hour have a weaker bond with their father and little support from close relatives. Their youth is arduous, and they must make their own way in life. They lack sufficient food and clothing and have many worries. They can prosper and enjoy good fortune in their later years, but are unlikely to inherit the family estate.

Those born in the middle four quarters of the Yin hour experience both success and setbacks in life, and may also hold power. They have ample food and clothing, and wealth and status are within reach. They are impatient and quick-moving, and treat others with loyalty and frankness. They receive little support from close relatives; their siblings are still affectionate, while their ties with their children are somewhat distant. “Peach Blossom Flanked by Bamboo” is a term from Chinese fortune-telling; the source text does not explain it.

Those born in the fourth quarter of the early Yin hour are said to have a fate that first brings hardship to their mother. They have little support from relatives, and are suited to the life of a monk or Daoist. Their own lives are marked by toil. Even after leaving their ancestral home to establish a household elsewhere, they often feel dissatisfied. They have few brothers to rely on, and children come late. Their fortunes gradually improve after middle age.

Palace of Heavenly Longevity

Those born in the fourth quarter of the early Mao hour are said to have a fate that first brings hardship to their father. There may be little affection among siblings, and ties with the wider family are weak. Their early years are often spent traveling and struggling; the family inheritance is unstable, and their undertakings tend to rise and fall. Their prospects for children are initially weak but gradually become more settled.

Those born in the fourth quarter of the middle Mao hour show no marked signs of family misfortune or ruin. They may come into unexpected money and have opportunities to meet influential people, earning a living through their skills. They have few brothers to rely on and weak ties with the wider family. After middle age, their household becomes prosperous; they have children and lead a relatively stable life.

Those born in the fourth quarter of the late Mao hour are said to have a fate that first brings hardship to their mother. Their undertakings often succeed more than they fail, but their progress is uncertain, with repeated advances and setbacks. They have little support from relatives and few helpful brothers. They may experience changes in marriage early in life. Their plans are likely to succeed, but they inherit little from their ancestors.

Official of the Heavenly Seal

Those born in the fourth quarter of the early Chen hour show no marked signs of family misfortune or ruin. Their fate is steady.

Those born in the fourth quarter of the late Mao hour are said to have a fate that first brings hardship to their mother. Their undertakings often succeed more than they fail, but their progress is uncertain, with repeated advances and setbacks. They have little support from relatives and few helpful brothers. They may experience changes in marriage early in life. Their plans are likely to succeed, but they inherit little from their ancestors.

Official of the Heavenly Seal

Those born in the fourth quarter of the early Chen hour show no marked signs of family misfortune or ruin. They are likely to encounter influential people throughout life, have ample food, clothing, and income, treat others kindly, and act fairly. Even when danger arises, they can turn misfortune aside. They get along well with their brothers and are not without the prospect of children.

Those born in the fourth quarter of the middle Chen hour are said to have a fate that first brings hardship to their father. They earn their livelihood through hard work and inherit little. Their lives bring many changes and reversals, and they are often busy and on the move. They are not without the prospect of children, and their household first declines, then prospers.

Those born at the end of the Chen hour are said to have a fate that first brings hardship to their mother. Their ties with their brothers are weak, and relatives offer little support. They travel and struggle in childhood, face repeated advances and setbacks in life, and cannot rely on their ancestral inheritance. Their prospects for children are initially weak but later become more settled, and their marriage is harmonious.

Those born in the fourth quarter of the early Si hour are likely to have three or four brothers. They possess both literary talent and military ability, can turn major problems into minor ones, and face danger and hardship without fear or harm. They get along easily with people wherever they go. Their wife is beautiful, and they are likely to have two or three children. Their fortunes are ordinary in early life but favorable in old age, when they may receive a considerable ancestral inheritance.

Born in the middle quarter of the Si hour, the mother dies relatively early. The person is quick-witted and resourceful, speaks with distinction, and is capable in handling affairs. There are many brothers, the family inheritance prospers, and it can be passed on to them.

Born in the middle quarter of the Si hour, the mother dies relatively early. The person is quick-witted and resourceful, speaks with distinction, and is capable in handling affairs. There are many brothers, and the family inheritance prospers. Fortune improves after middle age, and the person has a good bond with their children.

Born in the final quarter of the Si hour, the person has little support from close relatives, weak bonds with their brothers, and experiences early changes in marriage and children. “Peach Blossoms Amid Bamboo” is a term in fate books referring to a life in which joy and sorrow are intertwined. In old age, the person can establish a family and career.

Palace of the Celestial Seal

Born in the first four quarters of the Wu hour, the person faces no notable clashes, harm, or ruin. They are likely to encounter benefactors and have ample food, clothing, and income. The family inheritance may come from literary or military pursuits, or the person may earn a living through a craft. Some brothers are close, while others are distant; relations with relatives vary between warmth and coldness. The person has a good bond with their children.

Born in the middle four quarters of the Wu hour, the father dies relatively early. Food, clothing, and income come through hard work, and there is little family inheritance. Life brings many rises and falls, and the person is often occupied with making a living. The early years are difficult, but things gradually improve later. The brothers offer little help, relations with relatives are hard to harmonize, and matters concerning children are difficult at first but later improve.

Born in the final quarter of the Wu hour, the mother dies relatively early, and neither relatives nor brothers can be relied upon. The original wording in the fate book, “rely on ten, nine succeed, fail,” is not entirely clear in meaning. Overall, it describes a life of repeated successes and setbacks, with many twists and turns; food and clothing are scarce, and the person must make their own way. They are unlikely to inherit the family estate, but have a good bond with their children and can establish a household independently.

Born in the final quarter of the Wu hour, the mother dies relatively early, and neither relatives nor brothers can be relied upon. Life is full of twists and turns, and food and clothing are scarce, so the person must make their own way. They are unlikely to inherit the family estate, but have a good bond with their children and can ultimately establish a household independently.

The Purple Tenuity Hall’s Procession

Born in the first four quarters of the Wei hour, the person faces no notable clashes, harm, or ruin. They have four brothers. They are amiable, frank, and upright, but sometimes incur resentment by doing favors for others. After leaving the family estate, they establish a household independently. Their ties to relatives are rather weak, but they have a good bond with their children and can still inherit some of the family estate.

Heavenly Emptiness

Born in the middle quarter of the Wei hour, the father dies relatively early. The person has ample food, clothing, and income, and is amiable and fair-minded, but sometimes incurs resentment by doing favors for others. After leaving the family estate, they establish a household independently. They have little support from relatives, weak bonds with their brothers, and a family estate that prospers at times and declines at others.

Born in the lower quarter of the Wei hour, this person’s mother dies relatively early. They have two or three siblings and ample means for food, clothing, and official income. Kindhearted and forthright, they achieve success in their work. Their life brings both joy and sorrow and has its ups and downs, but they can identify the key to a problem, remain fearless in the face of danger, and resolve difficulties when they arise. Overall, their life is steady.

The Celestial Prosperity Palace

Born in the upper fourth quarter of the Shen hour, this person faces no marked conflicts or ruin. They are likely to meet influential benefactors and are clever and quick-witted. They often pass safely through danger and can turn major troubles into minor ones. Their life is stable, with no lack of food, clothing, or official income. Their relatives live in harmony, their relationships with siblings are good, and they have favorable ties with their children.

Born in the middle quarter of the Shen hour, this person’s father dies relatively early. They cannot rely on their relatives, and their siblings offer little help, so they must make their own way and establish a household independently. They often associate with government officials or people of status and standing, and are intelligent. They inherit little from the family estate, but ultimately build an estate of their own. They are best matched with someone strong-willed who can stand their ground. Their prospects for children are initially unfavorable.

Born in the final quarter of the Shen hour, this person’s mother dies relatively early. They cannot rely on their relatives or siblings. Their marriage is harmonious at an early stage, and they later have children. “Peach blossoms flanked by bamboo” is a term from Chinese destiny analysis, used here to describe a pattern concerning romance and relationships. Clever and capable, with many talents, this person has a generally steady life. They can establish a family and career, and lead a lively life.

The Celestial Blessing Palace

Born in the upper fourth quarter of the You hour, this person faces no marked conflicts or ruin. They have ample means for food, clothing, and official income, and can inherit the family estate. Clever and quick-witted, they act with boldness and have the commanding presence of a dragon or tiger. They possess both literary talent and military skill, and may become wealthy or distinguished. Their life is stable, and they can establish a family and career.

Born in the middle quarter of the You hour, this person’s father dies relatively early. They cannot rely on their siblings, but are likely to meet influential benefactors. They conduct themselves with integrity and have reliable means for food, clothing, and official income, though they sometimes fail to see things through. After leaving their ancestral home, they can build an estate of their own. Relations among their relatives are not especially harmonious, but they have favorable ties with their children.

Those born in the final quarter of the You hour, according to traditional belief, would first bring harm to their mother. Their close relatives, including parents and siblings, would offer little help, and there would be little affection between siblings. Their lives would have frequent ups and downs, and they would easily incur resentment. In adulthood, they would have to build a household through their own efforts. Children would come late, and they would often waver over what to do, unable to decide whether to advance or retreat.

Wenchang Divisional Palace (a form of divination that subdivides destiny by the hour)

Those born in the first quarter of the Xu hour, according to traditional belief, would first bring harm to their father. Their siblings would offer little help, and their ties with relatives would be distant. They might seem to have children, yet also seem not to; their food, clothing, and income would be sufficient. They would be frank and kindhearted, and might receive unexpected wealth. After leaving the family estate, they would establish a household of their own. They would fall short in filial devotion and have to rely on themselves in all things; they would often waver and be unable to decide whether to advance or retreat.

Wenchang Divisional Palace

Those born in the first quarter of the Xu hour, according to traditional belief, would first bring harm to their father. Their siblings would offer little help, and their ties with relatives would be distant. They might seem to have children, yet also seem not to; their food and clothing would be sufficient. They would be frank and kindhearted, and might receive unexpected wealth. After leaving the family estate, they would establish a household of their own, though they would fall short in filial devotion. They would have to rely on themselves in all things; in marriage, it was said they might lose a wife and marry again.

Those born in the middle quarter of the Xu hour, according to traditional belief, would first bring harm to their mother. They would be fond of keeping score, quick-witted, and drawn to an easy, pleasurable life. They would be honest and upright, exceptionally capable, eloquent, and able to get things done. Their ties with relatives would be distant, though some affection with siblings would remain. With no family estate to rely on, they would have to build a household through their own efforts. Their fortunes would improve after middle age, and their ties with their children would not be severed.

Those born in the final quarter of the Xu hour, according to traditional belief, would face no marked harm or loss. They would find it hard to get help from others, but would be astute and calculating, able to put their literary and martial talents to use. After leaving the family estate, they could gain authority and might attain wealth and status. Their ties with relatives would be distant, and affection between siblings might be lacking; they would also inherit little from the family estate. Their ties with children would be weak at first, then grow stronger.

Tianguan Divisional Palace (a form of divination that subdivides destiny by the hour)

Those born in the first quarter of the Hai hour, according to traditional belief, would first bring harm to their mother. They would have some ability in their work, little support from relatives, and little family estate to inherit; their ties with children would be weak at first, then grow stronger.

Tianguan Divisional Palace

Those born in the first quarter of the Hai hour, according to traditional belief, would first bring harm to their mother. They would have some ability in their work, little help from relatives, and little affection between siblings. Their fortunes would improve after middle age, and they would build a household and livelihood through their own efforts.

Another Tianguan Divisional Palace

Those born in the first quarter of the Hai hour, according to traditional belief, would first bring harm to their mother. They would have some ability in their work, no support from relatives, and weak ties with siblings. After leaving the family estate, they would establish a household of their own. Children would come late, and their fortunes would improve in old age.

Those born in the middle part of the Hai hour have no pattern of mutual conflict or damage. Their parents are alive before they reach thirty. Their affairs have both rises and falls, but they have their own judgment and authority. They do not shrink from danger; their courage and will are strong, and they usually avoid serious harm. Their ties with close family are somewhat distant, though affection remains among siblings. Their fate may also take them far from the family estate.

Those born in the final part of the Hai hour are prone to losing their father in childhood. Their clothing, food, and income are insufficient. They are mild and compliant in temperament, and are unlikely to become the principal wife of an eldest son. They receive little support from close family, and ties among siblings are weak. Their fortunes fluctuate in early life; only in later years do they gradually find their footing. Their fate is to establish a family and career later in life.

The Zhaodan Jing Siyán Shíbā Fēixīng Zhízhǐ also records the same account: they are unlikely to become the principal wife of an eldest son, receive little help from close family, and have weak ties among siblings. Their early years bring both success and failure; only in later life do they find their footing and establish a family.

Preface to the Zhaodan Jing Siyán Shíbā Fēixīng Zhízhǐ

Division of the Twelve Palaces

The listed star names include Ziwei, Tianxu, Tiangui, Tianyin, Tianshou, Xutian, Hongluan, Tianku, Tianguan, Wenchang, and Tianfu.

The Four Stars in the Palaces

Tianzhang, Tianyi, Maotou, Tianren, and Tianyao proceed in sequence from the Chou Palace; Tianxing proceeds in sequence from the You Palace; Tianku is conjoined with Tai Sui.

Example of Sequentially Arranged Annual Cycles

When Tai Sui, the year spirit that takes its turn each year, brings an inauspicious star into the birth chart, upheaval may follow, like a dream of entering Nanke. If the annual fortune encounters inauspicious forces, their effects may likewise manifest that year. A related verse lists the sequence of the twelve year spirits: first Tai Sui, second Taiyang, third Sangmen, fourth Taiyin, fifth Guanfu, sixth Sifu, seventh Suipo, eighth Longde, ninth Baihu, tenth Fuxing, eleventh Diaoke, and twelfth Bingfu.

Verse on the Eighteen Inauspicious Stars of the Twelve Palaces

Starting at the Zi position, count counterclockwise and place Tianzhang at the position corresponding to the month of birth.

Arrange Tianyi, Maotou, and Tianren in sequence counterclockwise, following Tianzhang. Then, according to the year of birth, place Tianku beside the corresponding position.

Beginning at the palace where Tianzhang is located, count forward according to the birth hour and place the Life Palace at the Mao position. For both men and women, regardless of Yin or Yang, begin counting from Tianzhang as the first day of the month and proceed counterclockwise.

The method for calculating the Body Palace is as follows: it advances one palace every two and a half days. Starting from the birth date of the person whose chart is being cast, count to the palace corresponding to their birthday; the Body Palace is placed there.

To position stars such as Ziwei, begin with Zi in the Wei Palace and count in order to the year of birth; place Ziwei in the palace reached. Stars such as Xu, Gui, Yin, and Shou are arranged according to their own prescribed forward or backward sequences. Kong, Luan, Ku, Guan, Wen, Fu, and Lu are also placed in sequence according to their mnemonic formulas. Stars such as Xing, You, Yao, and Chou begin from their designated palaces and proceed forward to the month of birth, where they are placed. Once all the stars have been positioned in this way, interpret the overall weight of good and ill fortune.

Positioning Ziwei and Related Stars

To position Ziwei, Xu, Shi, Yin, Shou, Kong, Luan, Ku, Guan, Wen, Fu, and Lu, begin with Zi in the Wei Palace and count forward to the year of birth; place Ziwei in the palace reached. Then arrange the remaining stars in the prescribed reverse order, placing one star in each palace. For example, for someone born in the Yin year, start with Zi in the Wei Palace and count forward to the You Palace. Place Ziwei in the You Palace, then arrange Xu, Gui, Yin, and the other stars in reverse order.

Positioning Tianzhang and Related Stars

To position Tianzhang, Yi, Mao, and Ren, begin with the first lunar month in the Zi Palace and count backward to the month of birth; place Tianzhang in the palace reached, then place Yi, Mao, and Ren in reverse order.

For example, for someone born in the first month, place Tianzhang in the Zi Palace, Yi in the Hai Palace, Mao in the Xu Palace, and Ren in the You Palace. Follow the same method for other months.

Positioning Tianxing

To position Tianxing, begin with the first lunar month in the You Palace and count forward to the month of birth; place Tianxing in the palace reached.

Positioning Tianku

Position Tianku according to the Six Harmonies of the earthly branch for the year of birth. For example, Zi and Chou form a pair, so for someone born in a Zi year, place Tianku in the Chou Palace.

Setting the Life Palace

Starting from the Zhang star, count in order to the birth hour. If the person was born in the Yin hour, for example, begin with Shen in the Zi Palace and count forward to Mao in the Wei Palace; that is the Life Palace.

Count backward from the staff. Each palace represents two and a half days, so five days pass through two palaces. Continue counting until the person’s birth date to determine the Body Palace. For both men and women, count backward. If the person was born on the third, thirteenth, or twenty-third day, or on the eighth, eighteenth, or twenty-eighth, those born at the hour of Wu do not pass beyond one palace; those born at the hour of Wei pass beyond one palace.

Method for setting the major periods

Yang men and Yin women count forward from the Life Palace, advancing one palace every ten years. Yin men and Yang women count backward from the Shen Palace, advancing one palace every ten years.

Method for setting the minor periods

Yang men and Yin women count backward from the Shen Palace, advancing one palace each year. Yin men and Yang women begin counting from the Life Palace and Body Palace, advancing one palace each year.

Yin-Yang associations of the Ten Heavenly Stems

Jia, Bing, Wu, Geng, and Ren belong to Yin; Yi, Ding, Ji, Xin, and Gui belong to Yang.

On the major and minor periods

When a major or minor period passes through an inauspicious palace and is joined by a baleful star such as the Fire Star, calamities may occur one after another.

The annual cycle should also be projected onto each month for further examination. Even if an illness does not prove fatal, it may still damage one’s vital energy.

Example of arranging the annual cycle in forward order

The twelve annual spirits, in sequence, are: first, Tai Sui; second, the Sun; third, Sang Men; fourth, the Moon; fifth, Guan Fu; sixth, Si Fu; seventh, Sui Po; eighth, Long De; ninth, the White Tiger; tenth, the Fortune Star; eleventh, Diao Ke; and twelfth, Bing Fu.

Mnemonic for determining life and death

Each star has its own celestial domain, which can be used to discern good and bad fortune. Assessing whether a person will live or die is the most difficult task. To judge the life or death of an adult, first examine Tian Ku, then note which palace Tian Xu occupies and how these stars illuminate the Life Palace and Body Palace.

If Tian Ku (Heavenly Cry, a star associated with sorrow and funerals) falls directly in the Body Palace or Life Palace, shares a palace with Tian Xu (Heavenly Emptiness, a star associated with depletion and grief), and the auspicious stars are too weak to help, this reading holds that the person may die young within three to five years of birth, and sometimes even after just two days. If Tian Ku and Tian Xu appear in only one of the two palaces—the Life Palace or the Body Palace—the person is likewise said not to live beyond a few years. If auspicious stars in the Body Palace and Life Palace offer protection, the person may live until the end of their allotted lifespan. One must also check whether punishment stars or blade stars oppose them. If Tian Ku and Tian Xu share a palace with inauspicious stars, the reading predicts a violent death and an inability to reach a peaceful end. The same method is used when interpreting a Great Fortune Period, a cycle of fortune that advances in fixed intervals of years.

For example, if Leo is the Life Palace and a fortune period reaches a certain palace, while Tian Ku in Aquarius stands opposite it, one may predict death if the year when the period begins has not yet arrived. Some say, however, that this prediction should be made only when a later fortune period reaches the Rat Palace. If Tian Ku is in the Tiger Palace (Sagittarius) and a fortune period also reaches the Tiger Palace, this too may be read as predicting death, or as indicating a risk of dying in infancy. If the Life Palace, the annual fortune for that year, and Tian Ku converge, the presence of auspicious stars can ease the situation. When favorable events occur, Tian Ku alone is not enough to predict misfortune. Only when the fortune period reaches the place where Tian Xu resides can death be predicted; the same reasoning applies in other cases.

Tian Xu presides over mourning. Auspicious stars may avert or lessen the calamity. Tian Ku is different: even auspicious stars can rarely dispel its effects entirely. When an auspicious star shares its palace, death may still come when the person’s allotted lifespan ends. If it shares a palace with inauspicious stars, misfortune may strike as soon as the fortune period begins. Only the Star of Longevity is said to extend one’s life. Even with help from hidden virtue accumulated through good deeds, however, such an extension does not exceed the number nine yang. Another interpretation holds that if a baleful period contains no Tian Ren (Heavenly Blade) star, and Tian Ren occupies a temple or exalted position, then when the fortune period reaches that place, a relative will surely weep. The same applies when Tian Xu enters a fortune period. Tian Zhang (Heavenly Staff) brings mourning whether or not it occupies a temple or exalted position; if it is also accompanied by Qingtian, Youyi, and the Crying Star, this too may be read as predicting death.

An old poem says: “When a guest arrives, set aside the qin and books; even the child has little mind to sketch this scene. Their voices and bearing fade from one another’s thoughts, and affection deepens; they form a bond like golden orchids, their hearts in harmony. Diligently wield the brush where the osmanthus sends forth its fragrance, before the Hall of Treasured Trees …”

The ancients said that when a guest arrives, one sets aside the zither and books. I, too, hope to depict such a scene: each person putting fame and status aside, valuing loyalty and affection, and forming a bond as deep as that of sworn brothers. They treat one another with care amid the fragrance of osmanthus blossoms, and stop their carriages before a splendid hall to welcome their guests. Now we see kindred spirits like Guan Yu and Liu Bei reunited; their good names will endure for a thousand years and spread throughout the region.

When an abscess has burst and become infected, a person’s life comes to an end. Old calamities have returned, yet people remain stubbornly blind to them.

The Nine Intestine Stars are used to distinguish the relative weight of misfortune and good fortune. The nine stars are: Ziwei, Wood; Wenchang, Wood; Fude, Earth; Lucun, Wood; Tianyin, Earth; Tianshou, Earth; Tianzhang, Wood; Tianku, Earth; and Tianyao, Wood.

When the Nine Intestine Stars fall in Yang palaces, good fortune is stronger and calamity weaker. When they fall in Yin palaces, good fortune is weaker and calamity stronger.

The Nine Yin Stars are used to distinguish the relative weight of calamity and good fortune. The nine stars are: Tiangui, Earth; Hongluan, Metal; Tianyi, Earth; Tianmao, Water; Tianxu, Water; Tianguan, Earth; Tianxing, Fire; Tianren, Metal; and Tianku, Metal.

When the Nine Yin Stars fall in Yin palaces, good fortune is stronger and calamity weaker. When they fall in Yang palaces, calamity is stronger and good fortune weaker. How, then, could one make a judgment without great care? If a star falls in a palace where it is strong and flourishing, there is no need to rely rigidly on whether the palace is Yin or Yang.

The Three Platforms in the Seat

The Three Platforms and Eight Seats are two stars that belong to the destiny of the Purple Tenuity deity. They govern the authority of the Northern Dipper and are also associated with the Qi of celestial mechanism and refined nobility. They preside over writing, official advancement, ambition, and good fortune. If a person’s life and body numbers are solitary, these are called the spirits of the Left Assistant and Right Assistant, together known as the “Three Harmonies and Eight Seats.” If they enter the spouse palace, they indicate separation between spouses, or mutual conflict and damage. The same principle applies if they enter the Heaven palace. When the Three Platforms and Eight Seats shine on the life palace or body palace, or appear during a life or body cycle, they are generally auspicious signs, foretelling smooth official advancement and high status.

To calculate the Three Platforms Star: for both men and women, begin with the first lunar month in the Xu palace, then count forward by month until reaching the month of birth. Next, begin with the first day of the month and count forward by date until reaching the day of birth. The position reached is the location of the Three Platforms Star.

To calculate the Eight Seats Star: for both men and women, begin with the first lunar month in the Chen palace, then count forward by month until reaching the month of birth. Next, begin with the first day of the month and count forward by date until reaching the day of birth. The position reached is the location of the Eight Seats Star.

The Dragon Pool and Phoenix Pavilion.

These two stars are auspicious stars of De in the heavens. They govern civilization and literary talent, and are formed from the residual Qi of Venus. They signify outstanding writing and success in the imperial examinations. When they fall in a person’s Life Palace or Body Palace, they usually indicate someone refined and intelligent, with graceful, dignified manners and a gentle disposition. For both men and women, their presence signifies opportunities to rise in status with the help of benefactors, achieve distinction, and enjoy abundant wealth and income. In a woman’s chart, they often indicate exceptional beauty and many talents, along with a firm will that is not easily swayed by desire. If they fall in a palace of weak strength, their blessings are modest; if they fall in a strong palace, their blessings are substantial.

Dragon Pool: When casting a chart for a man or woman, begin with the Zi hour in the Chen Palace and count forward in order. The position reached for the person’s birth hour determines the Dragon Pool star.

Phoenix Pavilion: When casting a chart for a man or woman, begin with the Zi hour in the Xu Palace and count backward in order. The position reached for the person’s birth hour determines the Phoenix Pavilion star.

Each of these eighteen stars has its own chart configuration and interpretation. In addition, there are several other important configurations; a few are listed below.

If a person’s Body Palace and Life Palace are in the Hai or Zi Palace, and the stars are not in a temple position—that is, they occupy positions of relatively weak strength—the configuration is called “Body Submerged in Rivers and Lakes.” If the Life Palace or Body Palace falls in the Xu, Hai, Chen, or Si Palace, the configuration is called “The Child’s Head Caught in a Net.” If the Body Palace or Career Palace is in the Si Palace, the configuration is called “Body Among the Poor”; it signifies troubles for the person or their wife, and may even indicate an early death. If the Life Palace sits on a Blade star, the configuration is called “A Life Spent Grinding a Candle,” indicating a life marked by repeated ups and downs. When the Heavenly Blade and Heavenly Void are in the Mao Palace, the configuration is called “Life Seated at the Gate of Wealth.”

Some configurations carry ominous signs, yet auspicious events may counteract or dispel them. If the Life Palace is in the Mao Palace, regardless of the birth hour, the configuration is called “The Snake Enters the Dragon Palace” and is considered auspicious.

Seven Strong Palaces: The arrival of auspicious stars brings blessings. The Life Palace, Property Palace, Spouse Palace, and Career Palace are the four strongest palaces; the Children’s Palace and Fortune Palace are next in strength, while the Wealth Palace is nearly as strong as these.

When the stars in the Appearance Palace and Servants Palace are in evil or weak positions, this is unfavorable. If the Brothers Palace is in a fallen position, it is considered half-fallen and may also be regarded as a relatively inactive, weak palace. The Career Palace, too, is sometimes described as “extremely idle.” The influence of the Illness Palace and Travel Palace is secondary. If malefic stars fall in a temple or flourishing position, they may sometimes produce unusual effects.

Examples of the Nine Auspicious Stars in a Temple Position

The nine kinds of auspicious stars—Zi, Wen, Hong, Gui, Fu, Lü, Yin, Shou, and Ku—indicate honor and high status if three to five of them are in temple or flourishing positions and strongly illuminate or join powerful palaces. Wen Chang and Tian Gui indicate success in the civil examinations, distinction in writing, and learning in the classics. Tian Xing favors a place in the Heavenly Treasury. If Tian Xing guards the Life Palace in a temple or flourishing position, illuminates the body, and joins the four powerful palaces, it indicates genuine talent, learning, and upright character, making the person stand out.

Examples of the Nine Malefic Stars in a Temple Position

Malefic stars such as Xing, Yi, Ren, Zhang, Xu, Ku, Mao, and Yao may indicate good fortune if they are in temple or flourishing positions, favor strength, and illuminate or join the Body Palace and Life Palace. Outside such positions, they are more likely to bring misfortune. Tian Xing in a temple position can become a star that supports literary talent and learning. Tian Ren in a temple position indicates the accumulation of learning and grain, but may also suggest a craving for literary fame and financial loss.

Periods of fortune and their limits should not encounter Xing or Ren. When Xu or Ku is in the Body Palace or Life Palace, it may be unfavorable for male or female natives and their spouses or concubines. The classic also says that if these stars are in temple or flourishing positions, a scholar may ultimately achieve prominence early in life. Mao Tou and Xu Hao should not illuminate the Wealth Palace or Spouses and Concubines Palace, as they indicate harm to spouses or concubines and the depletion of money. The good or ill effects brought by malefic stars must be assessed by considering how many there are and whether the auspicious stars prevail.

Essential Verses for Judging the Limits

Heaven displays the stars, and Earth gives form to the myriad things. Who can easily understand the rises and falls of human life? To judge a period of fortune, first see whether the path is open or blocked; when examining the stars, also distinguish whether they are flourishing or weak.

The Life Palace and Career Palace are most important. The Children Palace, Travel Palace, and the palaces forming a Three Harmonies relationship with them must also be examined. In the Parents Palace, consider whether the stars are distinguished and powerful, and observe how it is flanked and illuminated in relation to the Spouses and Concubines Palace. If the Wealth Palace and Illness Palace are adjacent to powerful palaces, their auspiciousness is also greater.

Judgment

The Brothers Palace is called the “extremely idle” palace. If the stars in the Servants Palace are evil or weak, this too should be taken into account.

“An ugly and weak appearance” requires particular attention; there is no need to spend excessive effort investigating other matters.

Song on the Limits of Fate

The fortune of the current year reveals signs of good and ill. When a major cycle or annual cycle runs smoothly, the person’s fate is naturally auspicious.

Even if a malefic star appears in the current year and brings minor misfortune or illness, there is no need for undue worry.

Explanation of the Judgment

If the chart contains malefic stars such as Punishment or Blade, the person may suffer injury or harm. If a major cycle is nearing its end and the Life Palace also contains stars such as Emptiness, Weeping, Punishment, or Blade, the danger is often extreme, even when auspicious stars shine upon the current year: of ten people, only one is said to survive. The scripture uses this to warn people to take such combinations of stars seriously.

Life Palace

Stars of blessing and prosperity are well placed in the Life Palace. If blessings and prosperity also come in old age, the person may enjoy good health, freedom from illness, and an official stipend. With further help from auspicious stars, this is considered a chart of wealth, rank, and longevity. Thus, when such stars appear in the Body Palace or Life Palace, they are generally interpreted as indicating power and official seals.

If the Body Palace or Life Palace contains stars such as Punishment, Irregularity, Weeping, Blade, or Yao, the person may be thought likely to suffer bodily injury or disability. Root Blade indicates harm to the person’s own body, while the Punishment star indicates physical injury. Possible afflictions also include foot injuries, a broken arm, chronic ailments of the ears or nose, or blurred vision.

If the Body Palace or Life Palace encounters Sky Emptiness, a star associated with vacancy and loss, also known as Heavenly Emptiness, this is said to indicate a poor family background, the rapid decline of family property, hardship, and even hunger.

The scripture says, “With the four Emptiness stars in the Body and Life Palaces, one becomes either a Daoist or a monk.” This means that if four stars associated with emptiness appear in the Body Palace or Life Palace, the person may leave home to become a Daoist priest or Buddhist monk. If malefic stars also surround them, the person is said to live alone throughout life.

Literary Stars in the Life Palace

A literary star in the Life Palace indicates intelligence. The scripture says that when a literary star is strong and supported by a star of worth and ability, the person may rise to high office, attaining senior rank at a young age. A similar interpretation applies when a literary star of the Literary Pavilion type appears in the Life Palace.

When stars of blessing and prosperity shine upon the Life Palace, they indicate wealth, rank, and distinction.

Fortune and prosperity move in harmony with the palace walls, and one may enjoy a lifetime of renown and achievement. When a cultivated person encounters this configuration, they may gain distinction through the civil examinations or selection and become famous at a stroke. An ordinary person may also rise suddenly to prosperity.

The Noble Star and Longevity Star offer support, and in the end one may enjoy wealth and status. The Noble Star signifies fame gained through literary talent and learning; the Longevity Star signifies blessings and prosperity gained through a long life.

When Ziwei, Hongluan, the Seal Star, and the Staff Star gather together, overall fortune is still ordinary. Though Ziwei is accompanied by many blessings, if the Authority Star and Seal Star arrive together with Hongluan, wealth and status remain as fleeting as clouds and are hard to sustain. The Staff Star also makes fortune uncertain, with advances and setbacks.

When Tianyao, a star associated with desire and romantic entanglements, shines on one’s fate, it is often thought to bring difficulties related to sensual desire. One traditional explanation for a young man’s infatuation with beauty is that Tianyao afflicts his fate. A woman who elopes by night is likewise said to have Tianyao in her life palace.

When stars such as Xing and Yi arrive together, the family inheritance may decline. When Xing and Yi appear together, fortunes often rise and fall. If the Fortune and Prosperity Stars, Official Star, and Kui Star offer little support, one’s prospects are unfavorable.

When Tian Ku shines on one’s fate, it generally signifies wealth and status. The classic says that when the body palace or life palace falls where the Storehouse Star is located, money and property are often plentiful. The Storehouse Star guarding the life palace on its own is also thought to bring substantial wealth.

When Tian Xu governs one’s undertakings, they often fail to succeed. The classic says this configuration signifies emptiness and unreliability. If the Fortune and Prosperity Stars, Official Star, and Kui Star are also weak, carrying out one’s plans is like rowing upstream: obstacles arise at every turn. It is also often associated with dealings with monks and Daoist practitioners.

When baleful stars such as Maotou and Xuerен pass through the chart, the configuration is unfavorable. If the Maotou Star occupies the body palace or life palace, one often struggles to distinguish oneself.

When the Grief Star enters the life palace, it may bring sorrow over one’s family and kin. Even just after receiving an official post, one may encounter legal troubles or other difficulties. Only with the aid of auspicious stars may disaster be avoided. The judgment of good or ill fortune must also take into account the stars in the opposite palace and their opposing influences.

II. The Wealth Palace

The Wealth Palace should contain the Tian Ku Star. When the Storehouse Star guards the Wealth Palace, it signifies the accumulation of land and money and the making of a wealthy household. Even if the Storehouse Star is weak and occupies the life palace, it may still signify abundant wealth.

When the Tian Guan Star shines on the chart, especially during a period of fortune or in the body or life palace, it often signifies an unexpected windfall.

When Ziwei, Hongluan, and Tian Shou enter a temple position—a powerful placement for a star—and occupy the Wealth Palace, they generally signify prosperity.

When Tian Gui meets Tian Guan, it signifies great wealth and a life of abundance and status. If the Seal Star casts its light toward Tian Guan, there may be an opportunity to become renowned.

When the Tian Ku Star guards the Wealth Palace and no other stars break its influence, it signifies prosperity. When the Wealth Star is in its proper position, money is more likely to accumulate steadily. The Tian Guan Star often signifies unexpected gains.

When Tian Fu is in the Wealth Palace, it signifies ample wealth and may also indicate substantial savings, enough to fill the granaries with stored grain.

When the Wenchang Star falls in the Palace of Wealth and meets auspicious attendant stars, it indicates that the family will be prosperous. When the Tiangui Star falls in the Palace of Official Career, it indicates wealth, status, and distinction, and can also enhance one’s reputation and honors.

When the Tianxu Star guards the Palace of Wealth, financial fortunes will fluctuate. If the Tiankui Star enters the Palace of Wealth, losses of money are likely. When the Tianzhang Star guards this palace, even a household with a thousand gold pieces in savings may still suffer losses along the way.

When the Tianyi Star guards the Palace of Wealth, it is unfavorable for seeking wealth. Money may be gained through reckless conduct, deceit and callousness, or improper means.

When the Tiankui Star guards the Palace of Wealth, it indicates frequent financial losses. Money may come easily, only to disappear quickly, like bubbles on water or flowers reflected before one’s eyes, impossible to hold on to for long.

When the Tianren Star guards the Palace of Wealth, it indicates that financial fortune may come, but it will not be secure; wealth and status are as fleeting as clouds.

When the Maotou Star guards the Palace of Wealth, money will ultimately be difficult to accumulate, and theft is also a frequent risk.

When the Tianxing Star guards the Palace of Wealth, money is easily wasted or lost. One may also use official business as a pretext to pursue private gain.

When the Tianyao Star guards the Palace of Wealth, money may be squandered on drinking, pleasure-seeking, or gambling. Funds may be tied up and difficult to use, and ultimately remain hard to save. Losses may also result from lawsuits or criminal penalties, leading to a life of poverty or even encounters with thieves.

When the Tianren Star is associated with wealth, it can also bring financial benefits. If stars that govern the storehouse of wealth, such as the Tianku and Guansuo Stars, receive the support of auspicious stars, unexpected money may come. If this occurs during a major cycle of fortune, the money gained will often be kept hidden away. If inauspicious stars also fall in this palace, wealth may still accumulate, but setbacks are likely to arise eventually.

If auspicious stars occupy the Palace of Wealth and the Guansuo Star is also present, blessings are especially great. If the Tianyao and Tianyi Stars shine upon it, however, one’s affairs throughout life will tend to swing repeatedly between success and failure.

If the Tianku Star is in the Palace of Wealth together with the Guansuo Star, it indicates few financial calamities. If punitive or unusual stars shine upon this palace, one’s fortunes throughout life will instead rise and fall between success and failure.

The Ziwei, Fu, and Shou Stars in the Palace of Wealth are auspicious signs; the Guansuo Star shining upon it also indicates great good fortune. If noble, seal, and emolument stars are also present, they indicate ample wealth. The Hong, Wenchang, Tianyi, and Tianzhang Stars are also often associated with financial fortune.

Three. The Palace of Siblings

The Sibling Palace benefits from the presence of strong, auspicious stars, which help bring siblings into one’s life. Most inauspicious are stars that have fallen into a weakened position.

Ziwei, Tianxu, Tiangui, Tianyin, Tianshou, Tiankong, Hongluan, and other stars each affect sibling relationships in different ways. Tianxu signifies quarrels and often brings injury or punishment. Tiangui signifies a line of siblings, while Tianyin signifies siblings of high standing. Tianshou signifies harmony among siblings and that each enjoys good fortune and longevity. Tiankong weakens the bonds between siblings, making it advisable to seek support from one’s children. If Hongluan brings affection, it helps one gain siblings.

Tianku signifies support; Tianguan signifies difficulty in having a line of siblings. Wenchang signifies closeness to people of influence and warmth toward others. Tianfu signifies abundance, deep loyalty, and a willingness to yield. Tianlu signifies that siblings have a reputation and receive official stipends. Tianzhang signifies practical but weak bonds among siblings; Tianyi signifies differing interests and difficulty getting along. Maotou signifies quarrels. Tianren signifies serious injury and loss, so one should seek support from one’s children. Even when Shouxing is constrained, it is not considered inauspicious.

A verse says: The Sibling Palace reveals the status and standing of one’s siblings. Tianxu, Tianyi, stars of punishment, and Yaoxing should all be avoided. If Tiangui and Hongluan are present, siblings will form a line like geese in flight, an enviable sight.

When Tianyi falls in the Sibling Palace, it often indicates that siblings will live apart. Even if they share the same ancestors and live under one roof, they may ultimately go their separate ways. Tianyi in the Sibling Palace may also indicate that the siblings share only one parent.

Even when a family lives under the same roof, its members often argue and quarrel.

Stars such as Void, Weeping, Yao, and Punishment indicate that people cannot listen to one another. When these stars appear in a person’s chart, strange and surprising events are also more likely.

With the help of auspicious stars such as Red Luan and Celestial Nobility, family members can live together in harmony, close and peaceful like a flock of crows gathered in one place.

In matters concerning siblings, stars such as Seal and Longevity indicate harmonious and prosperous relations. Stars such as Yao and Strange indicate that there are more female relatives.

The effects represented by stars such as Red, Literary, Strange, and Staff tend to appear first. The harmful effects brought by stars such as Weeping, Blade, Hair, and Punishment, however, are difficult to avoid.

Four. The Fields and Houses Palace

The Fields and Houses Palace should contain auspicious stars such as String and Treasury, with the stars in a temple or flourishing position—that is, in a state of strength. It should not contain inauspicious stars such as Heaven and Strange, which indicate the early death of one’s parents. If the Treasury star meets the Heaven’s Intention star in aspect, this indicates an initial setback followed by later success: the person builds a career through their own efforts.

Stars such as Purple, Nobility, Seal, and Ancestor indicate a flourishing family estate. Stars such as Fortune and Treasury are also favorable for property. When Fortune and Talent are strong, the person tends to be ambitious and driven, though they may also bring harm or loss to their father. The String star is favorable when supported by Fortune and Talent, but should not be struck or broken. When Longevity is ordinary, one’s fortunes concerning property are also relatively steady.

When the Red star is strong together with Literary and Prosperity, it indicates an abundant food supply. Void, Staff, and Blade indicate that the person enjoyed good fortune in early life. The Strange star indicates damage to the family estate. When the Hair star appears often, the family estate is prone to repeated losses, though there may also be an initial decline followed by success. Yao indicates damage to the ancestral estate. Punishment indicates that the person both ruins the family estate and rebuilds it. When Weeping appears together with Treasury and String, this indicates an initial decline followed by success. If these stars are in a temple or flourishing position, the family’s property will increase and surpass the fields and houses inherited from the ancestors. The Empty star indicates that the person establishes a household and career through their own efforts.

If the Fields and Houses Palace contains stars such as Hair, Void, and Strange, ancestral property and family wealth may be completely squandered.

If Treasury and String both aspect the person’s Life Palace, this indicates an initial decline followed by the acquisition of property through one’s own efforts.

The frequent appearance of stars such as Fortune, Prosperity, Seal, and Longevity indicates abundant property. The appearance of Yao, Hair, Punishment, and Strange indicates strong ties to one’s parents and may also bring upheaval to the household.

If the pattern of “initial decline followed by success” is supported by the Seal star, the decline can turn auspicious. If the Heaven Void star falls in the Fields and Houses Palace, it indicates that the family will ultimately be left with no property.

Five. The Sons and Daughters Palace

The verse says: When flourishing and vigorous stars enter the Sons and Daughters Palace, one will have descendants in abundance.

The Sons and Daughters Palace should not be aspected by inauspicious stars, or one’s children may face danger. If stars such as Weeping and Void also appear, children are more likely to die young or be difficult to raise to adulthood. When the Three Day Official is in a strong and flourishing position, childbirth is smooth and the children enjoy good fortune and prosperity.

When the Body Palace (symbolizing the native) and the Womb Palace (symbolizing fetal breath and offspring) both fall in a secondary division, and the Moon also occupies an inauspicious position, this indicates possible difficulties concerning children.

If the Purple Tenuity Star (associated with nobility and authority) occupies a relevant palace, the native will usually have one or two children, first a daughter and then a son. If it is in a temple or flourishing position (where a star is strong and favorably placed), the descendants may become prominent and prosperous, and the family may have more children. Auspicious stars in favorable positions usually indicate two or three children and distinguished descendants. Void stars may indicate having no children in old age, a tenuous bond with one’s children, or children who wander far from home. The family may also continue its ancestral line through an adopted child; without one, illnesses related to offspring may occur. When stars such as Storehouse, Longevity, Seal, and String converge, the children are said to bring honor to the family. Red stars often indicate more daughters, though the total number of children may be small. When auspicious stars such as Fortune and Literary stars converge, they indicate three to five children, a prosperous household, and high status, but these stars should not be struck or broken. Wealth stars indicate children who bring honor; there may also be a child who changes households or inherits another family’s name.

The Staff star indicates a weak bond with descendants or difficulty raising children to adulthood. The Weeping star indicates harm or loss: perhaps only one or two of the children will be able to care for the parents in their old age and see them through to the end of life. When stars such as Difference and Separation cast their light on the relevant palaces, descendants may be difficult to obtain; there may be only children born to a collateral branch, or a child may be adopted. If the Hair star falls in the palace of sons and daughters, it indicates children with violent temperaments, even the possibility of a violent death. In a favorable position, however, it may still permit the native to have children and bring good fortune. The Blade star indicates children who are ill or who drain the family’s resources; if its harmful influence can be mitigated, an adopted child may still carry on the family line. The Yao star indicates children who cannot be relied upon and lead unsettled lives; sons may behave poorly, while daughters may suffer damage to their reputation. The Punishment star indicates that although the native has children, it is as if they had none, since they are likely to be unfilial. If it shares a palace with auspicious stars, one of three children may care for the parents in old age and see them through to the end of life. If malefic stars also appear in the three harmonizing palaces, the native may have difficulty having biological children; any children they do have may be adopted. Women may also face danger in childbirth. The String star indicates two or three children.

The verse says: The Hair star should not fall in the palace of sons and daughters, for the children, sons-in-law, or daughters-in-law may have fierce temperaments. If it encounters auspicious stars such as Heavenly Nobility and Red Phoenix, the descendants can become prominent and prosperous. When the Hair, Punishment, and Blade stars gather, the children may have violent temperaments; if Void or Weeping stars also appear, the outcome is inauspicious. If both relevant palaces are favored by auspicious stars, the household’s servants and descendants may live in harmony. If the Four Malefics or the Punishment star afflict the Womb Palace, the fetus may die prematurely or suffer physical injury.

Tianyi governs children born of different mothers. If it falls in the Children Palace, the children’s circumstances may also differ from the norm, and they may not get along with one another. It is not uncommon for a child to be adopted from another branch of the family or to be born to a concubine; the child may also have been brought into the family by the wife’s elder brother.

If Sanxing harms the Life Palace, this may indicate that the wife is injured around the time of childbirth.

Wenchang governs having many children, including some with reddish-purple complexions. The eldest son may be difficult to raise and may be at risk of dying young. Yinshou indicates having two sons, while Fuxing signifies that the children can all live in peace and stability.

Six. Servants Palace

Wenchang is unfavorable in the Servants Palace. If it appears there, the native’s intelligence may be inferior to that of the servants. Tianren and Tianzhang indicate strong servants; even when Kuxu appears alongside them, the servants may still be strong.

The scripture also says that when Zhang, Ren, Shou, Fu, Lu, Ku, Guan, Hong, and other stars fall in the Servants Palace, the servants will stand in awe of their master. Wenchang and Xuxing indicate that the servants may surpass their master in mental ability. Gui and Yin stars are unfavorable in this palace; otherwise, the servants may leave without permission. Mao and Xing stars govern servants who are fierce and ill-intentioned, while Yao and Yi indicate capable maidservants who can be relied upon.

When the native is weak in matters of the Servants Palace, they may need to rely on servants brought by the mother when she remarried. Alternatively, a change of father may mean that someone else takes responsibility for their care.

Ziwei and Wenchang are unfavorable in the Servants Palace, as the servants may surpass their master in intelligence. With Zhang and Ren stars, the servants will be more capable; Tianxing and Maotou indicate that servants will offer little help. Yao and Yi indicate capable maidservants, while Ku and Lu govern the recruitment of strong servants.

Seven. Wife and Concubines Palace

When Hongluan and Tiangui shine on the Wife and Concubines Palace, they indicate a beautiful and noble wife, with servants to assist her. Tianyi is unfavorable in this palace; otherwise, the couple may separate or suffer harm, leading the native to marry again.

When the Ziwei star enters its enclosure, meaning it occupies a position of strength, the person is likely to marry a dignified wife of good standing. If it falls in a weakened position, the wife may be unrestrained in her conduct. For women, marriage is generally stable, and the husband is often someone who values righteousness, cultivates himself, and does good deeds. Both partners may be decisive in temperament.

The Xu star indicates conflict and harm between spouses. Marrying late is advisable to lessen the harm; it may also signify having no wife or frequently associating with monks and Daoist practitioners. The Gui star indicates marrying a beautiful, refined wife. The Yin star signifies becoming wealthy through one’s wife, but if the Zhang star is also encountered, one’s fortunes may suffer. A longer lifespan is more likely when both spouses are older. The Kong star sharing a palace with the Mu star is auspicious.

The Hongluan star indicates marrying a beautiful wife. The Ku star suggests having a wife or concubines, but remarriage in old age is inadvisable. The Lu star indicates a wife of noble status, but it should not encounter malefic stars that clash with and harm it. The Wen star indicates an intelligent, quick-witted wife; if malefic stars such as the Diaoke star aspect it from the three surrounding palaces, harm will follow. The Guansuo star indicates that a man may marry a wife whose marital relationships are improper, or that a woman may marry a man of poor character. If it is in positions such as Si, Wu, Jia, or Hai, there is no need for excessive worry; it may also indicate that the wife is capable.

The Fu star indicates marrying a good and virtuous wife, but if it clashes with stars such as the Yi star, the marriage will be unfavorable. The Zhang star indicates loneliness and conflict, and either spouse may suffer from illness. The Mao star indicates a strong-willed wife and a marriage prone to harm. The Yi star indicates harm between spouses; there may be more than one marriage, and discord is likely. Otherwise, it may signify separation. If signs of remarriage also appear, this is unfavorable for both partners. The Ren star indicates that a man may damage his health through drinking and sexual indulgence. For a woman, it may indicate danger in childbirth. It also signifies hardship, with injury and harm often occurring.

The Xing star indicates conflict between spouses, which late marriage can lessen. The Tianzhang star indicates that the couple may face illness, misfortune, and worry, and that one should also beware of a favored concubine. The Yao star indicates remarriage, though it may also signify that the couple can remain harmonious. If the Zhang star and other malefic stars are also present, the couple may be separated by death. If the stars enter a temple, meaning they occupy favorable positions, and this coincides with a major cycle of fortune, life may be extended and events may go as desired. The Ku star generally indicates conflict and calamity.

The poem says: If the seventh palace, which represents the relationship between spouses, has no malefic stars, the couple can live in harmony. When spouses separate, it is often because they differ markedly from one another; the Hongluan and Gui stars can help improve the situation. If the virtuous wife, Gui star, and Shou star meet, separation or death may occur. If the stars enter a temple and coincide with a major cycle of fortune, life may be prolonged and all things go smoothly. When the Ku star arrives here, it readily brings sorrow.

The poem also says: If the seventh palace has no malefic stars, the spouses live in harmony. If they separate, it is often because their differences are great, but the Hongluan and Gui stars can bring assistance. A virtuous wife and noble children can bring stability, while the Ku star’s arrival here adds to sorrow. In the spouse palace, the Gui, Yin, and Shou stars are auspicious; the Xu, Ren, Mao, and Xing stars indicate harm.

If the three related palaces (the three palaces that meet the palace in question) encounter inauspicious stars, one may also have to go through two or three marriages.

Stars such as Xing, Xu, Mao, and Ren are said to signify remarriage, whether for a man or a woman. Only the Red Luan star symbolizes an exceptionally attractive spouse. When Gui, Yao, Ku, and Lu stars shine upon the palace, the spouse is said to be capable and to come from a relatively prosperous family. When Tian and Yi stars meet, they indicate that the spouse has some especially outstanding quality.

Eight. The Health Palace

The Health Palace should not contain Tian Yao or Yi stars. An old formula says that this may indicate a hunched waist, a bent back, or serious illness.

When Zi, Xu, Gui, Shou, Yao, Mao, and Kong stars gather, an old formula says this may indicate a persistent, unusual illness; injuries or ailments affecting the eyes, hands, or feet; or lung problems such as wheezing and chest tightness. The person may often weep because of illness and pain.

Yin, Hong, Ku, Guan, Wen, and Ren stars are associated with good fortune and prosperity. When Yao and Ku stars gather, this is said to indicate possible disorders of the internal organs, or a hunchback or limp.

If, at birth, the Health Palace is occupied by the Renma star and lies in the same astrological sector as the Ghost Gate, an old formula considers this harmful to health. If the stars are fallen, or if they encounter inauspicious stars such as Ren, Yi, or Xing, this may indicate bodily injury, unclear speech, or loss of voice.

When Ren and Xing stars fall into the Health Palace, an old formula says the person is prone to frequent illness and internal imbalances that are difficult to treat. A limp, hunched waist, or bent back may also occur, with recurring bouts of illness. If the body star is fallen and also receives the influence of inauspicious stars, this is considered even more unfavorable.

When the eight baleful stars shine upon the Health Palace, an old formula says they may damage one’s vital essence and shorten one’s lifespan. The Health Palace should not contain Tian Yao; its conjunction with Yi is also considered unfavorable. When Xing and Ren stars shine upon it, they may indicate frequent illness, while auspicious stars such as Tian Gui and Wenchang are said to lessen the inauspicious effects. When Yao, Yi, Mao, and Xing stars gather, an old formula says the person is prone to illness; if auspicious stars such as Fu and Shou shine upon the palace, they are said to avert calamity.

When auspicious and inauspicious stars are mixed together, they must be assessed as a whole. An old formula says that if an inauspicious star occupies the palace, it may bring misfortune.

Nine. The Travel Palace

The Travel Palace should not be affected by Mao, Tou, Xing, or Ren stars. An old formula says that with this configuration, one is likely to encounter thieves, danger, or accidents while away from home. In severe cases, one’s life may even be at risk; whether auspicious stars can offer protection must also be considered.

With Ziwei in the Travel Palace, a person is likely to meet benefactors when leaving home or traveling. Tianxu in the Travel Palace indicates that opportunities for development come more readily after leaving one’s ancestral home. Tianyin in the Travel Palace indicates that a person can earn a salary abroad through their talents. Tiangui in the Travel Palace indicates that benefactors often offer help when the person comes and goes. Shouxing in the Travel Palace indicates good fortune when traveling. Tianku in the Travel Palace indicates that acting on one’s abilities while away from home brings good fortune. Hongluan in the Travel Palace indicates that joyful events are likely to occur while away; if it meets auspicious stars in the Three Harmony Palaces, this favorable sign becomes more pronounced, and the person may also pursue Confucian learning, writing, or one of the Nine Currents. Wenchang in the Travel Palace indicates that the person can meet benefactors when coming and going, which brings good fortune. Fuxing brings benefits through travel and relocation; when auspicious stars appear in the Three Harmony Palaces, journeys and comings and goings proceed smoothly. An abundance of Luxing makes it easy to meet people of high rank.

Tianzhang is unfavorable for travel and comings and goings. Mao Xing in the Travel Palace indicates that the person may encounter thieves, harm, or accidents while traveling; it also signifies danger in water. Tianyi indicates a lack of peace and stability. Tianyao indicates that others will treat the person kindly when they come and go. Qingyang, the name of a star, indicates that long journeys may attract thieves. Tianxing makes long journeys unfavorable; if it is in the same palace as Tianku or casts its influence there, the person may encounter thieves and dangerous events. Tianku in the Travel Palace indicates that travel and comings and goings are likely to bring gossip and disputes. Tiankong indicates that matters ultimately come to nothing.

A verse says:

When Tianxing, Qingyang, and Mao Xing appear in the Travel Palace, beware of thieves and theft when traveling.

If no auspicious stars provide relief, unexpected calamity may strike; if no inauspicious stars are present, there is no need for worry.

While traveling abroad, Tiangui often brings encounters with benefactors. Tianyin, Tianwei, and the stars of fortune and prosperity also help journeys go smoothly.

With Mao Xing, Tianxing, and Qingyang in the Travel Palace, beware of thieves. These stars may also lead to a person dying far from home.

Ten: The Career Palace

The Career Palace should contain Tianyin, Yinchou, and Wenchang, which signify success and recognition in the civil service examinations. If the stars are in a temple or strong position, they signify holding authority and office, as well as promotion. Tianxu is unfavorable here, for it indicates a life with little chance of earning a salary.

When Ziwei, Mingxing, and Jino are all in a temple or strong position, they signify a distinguished reputation and the ability to make one’s name known at court, with a lifetime of striving and few disputes. If Luanxing is also present, the person may pass the examinations in youth; if the configuration is disrupted, however, they will find it difficult to attain high status. Tianxu signifies an empty reputation, or appearing outstanding while lacking decisiveness. Tiangui signifies fearlessness in facing difficulties; if no inauspicious stars join it, circumstances are generally steady. A person who lacks social skill, however, may struggle to live in safety and good health. Tianyin signifies the ability to put family affairs in order. If the person also has the advantage of a favorable location and is in harmony with the Siblings Palace, Tiangui signifies appointment as a general and the granting of a noble title.

Those born with a highly honored destiny may earn distinction in their youth and early on take command and attain prominence. Even if an ordinary person’s destiny lacks favorable placement, they can still live a stable life. When the Longevity Star is in its temple—that is, in a strong and auspicious position—it indicates passing the examinations in youth, compassionately caring for the people, and far-sighted understanding. The Fortune Star has similar effects.

The Red Star signifies benevolence, righteousness, celebration, and ritual propriety, but may also make a person arrogant. The Treasury Star signifies skill in planning and talent; in its temple, it brings widespread renown. The String Star makes a person decisive throughout life, though its influence is unfavorable when damaged. The Hair Star signifies fearlessness in the face of trouble and setbacks. When the Weeping Star meets the Literary Star, the Weeping Star’s effects are softened.

When the Literary Star is in its temple, it indicates earning distinction in youth and receiving public recognition. A gentleman may hold an honored, prestigious post; a monk or Daoist practitioner may maintain a life of pure cultivation; and an ordinary person may find it easy to gain the favor of the eminent. The Yao Star makes it easier to give up bad habits, but can bring much talk and activity, and may also invite disputes. When the Literary Star is in its temple, a person’s reputation may spread far and wide.

A poem says:

When the Heavenly Emolument Star in the Official Fortune Palace—the palace governing career and official rank—is illuminated by the Punishment-and-Staff Star, one may face penalties such as penal servitude, hard labor, or exile. If the Heavenly Weeping Star also comes into opposition, calamities may follow, including penal servitude, death, or injury.

With the Punishment Blade Star in the Official Fortune Palace, a person is likely to become entangled in lawsuits and face one misfortune after another. If the Heavenly Seal Star or Literary Prosperity Star is in this palace, however, one may instead be promoted in youth and attain high rank.

The Official Fortune Palace should contain a meeting of the Seal Star and noble stars. If it contains only the Staff, Subtle, Red, and Longevity Stars, fortune is generally ordinary. The Heavenly Void Star and Punishment Blade Star make it difficult for endeavors to achieve real results; encountering the Literary Prosperity Star may bring widespread renown.

Eleven: The Palace of Blessings and Virtue

The Palace of Blessings and Virtue, which governs good fortune, spiritual life, and enjoyment, is best occupied by auspicious stars such as the Blessing Star, Longevity Star, and Seal Star, preferably in their temple or a strong position. If inauspicious stars such as the Void Star shine upon it and cause damage, a person may lack good fortune throughout life or fall into hardship. If the Punishment Star and Blade Star are also present, illnesses may include deafness, blindness, tumors, or chronic afflictions.

When the Purple Star, Longevity Star, and Red Star share a palace, they indicate a life of secure food and clothing and good health. The Noble Star and Literary Star indicate abundant means of support and an honored, prestigious life; the Seal Star brings renown; the Treasury Star brings wealth and emoluments; the String Star brings unexpected wealth; the Blessing Star makes good fortune secure; and the Emolument Star brings official rank and salary. The Staff Star makes a person toil and leaves their advances and retreats uncertain. When the Hair, Yao, Blade, and Weeping Stars appear together, they indicate diminished fortune or illness.

When Ziwei, Tianshou, and Hongluan appear together, they indicate a life of secure food and clothing and sound health. When Wenchang and Tiangui appear together, they indicate material sufficiency and a refined, comfortable life. The Seal Star indicates an illustrious reputation; the Wealth Store Star indicates wealth and income from office; the Guansuo Star indicates sudden, unexpected riches; the Fortune and Virtue Star indicates lasting good fortune; and the Lucun Star indicates status and income from office. If the Staff Star appears, life will be laborious, with uncertain progress and setbacks. When stars such as Maotou, Tianyao, Yangren, and Tianku appear together, they indicate scant good fortune and difficulty in all matters.

When the Tianxu Star enters the Life Palace, it indicates a life of poverty. If the Body Palace also falls in an unfavorable position and is further afflicted by the Xing Star and the Blade Star, illnesses may affect the ears, eyes, mouth, nose, arms, or feet. The Tianxing Star indicates mental strain and worry, as well as calamity, exile, or hard labor. When the Tianxu and Tianku stars appear together, they may bring injury or death; if auspicious stars shine upon them, the danger can be reduced by half. When the Tianyao Star enters the Body Palace, it indicates a troubled, restless, and unsettled state of mind.

A verse says:

The Fortune and Virtue Palace should not contain the Tianxu Star. A person blessed with good fortune will not have the Tianxu Star in this palace.

When the Xing Star and the Yi Star shine upon a major fortune period, calculated over a set number of years, the period is naturally perilous. Even without illness, one will encounter fright and danger.

If the Body Palace is auspicious and clear, there is no need to worry about the Life Palace. If the foundation of the Fortune and Virtue Palace is secure, it is favorable wherever the palace falls.

The Fortune and Virtue Palace should contain auspicious stars. Those who enjoy good fortune from an early age will live securely and smoothly.

If inauspicious stars appear, or the Seal Star loses its auspicious influence, one will lack good fortune and may suffer the early loss of a wife, servants, or brothers.

The Twelve Appearance Palace

The Appearance Palace should contain the Tianxu and Tianku stars, for this means fewer calamities over the course of one’s life; however, these stars should not appear in the Body Palace or Life Palace. When the Maotou Star and Tianku Star share a palace, they indicate a flaw in one’s appearance. If an honorific star also appears, this is highly auspicious.

The Ziwei, Tiangu, Tianxi, and other stars in the Appearance Palace each have different indications. Tiangui, Hongluan, and Wenchang indicate beauty; the Seal Star indicates authority and power; Tianshou indicates an old-fashioned appearance; the Wealth Store Star indicates the acquisition of wealth; and the Guansuo Star indicates sudden success. The Tianxu Star indicates illness and calamity, so one must guard against afflicting inauspicious stars. If the Fortune and Virtue Star occupies a strong, prosperous palace, one can attain honor and wealth even when starting from nothing. The Staff Star indicates illness in old age; the Tianyao Star indicates a handsome, refined appearance; and the Maotou Star indicates an unattractive appearance. The Tianku Star indicates an appearance marked by signs of illness and calamity. When the Yi Star, Blade Star, and Xing Star appear together, they indicate a disfigurement and the possibility of illness.

The explanatory verses say:

The Appearance Palace should not contain Tianku or other sorrowful stars, or one’s appearance may be marred, or one may have a limp or an abnormality of the shoulders. If these stars appear in the Appearance Palace, severe illness may result.

The Appearance Palace should not contain the Yi Star, and the Xing Star and Blade Star should also be kept out. If these stars appear in the Body Palace or Life Palace, they may indicate a hidden illness or an unusual calamity.

The appearance of the Wenchang Star in the Appearance Palace is not necessarily a good sign. If Fortune or Longevity stars also shine upon it, however, it indicates a long life.

When there are many inauspicious stars in a person’s fate, they often damage the family’s inherited estate. The influence of stars such as Hongluan and Tianku should also be examined carefully.

The Ziqi Star is stronger when placed in palaces such as Zi, Shen, Si, You, or Hai, and may also indicate an affinity for professions such as shamanism.

When the Ziwei Star is placed in the Zi palace, men often have opportunities for study and learning, while women excel at brocade weaving and embroidery. If no star of the “Maotou” type restrains it, a man may receive a generous stipend in adulthood. If no “Blade Star” clashes with it, a woman may marry into a prominent family. When Ziwei is in the Si palace and travels through the You and Hai palaces, it brings greater good fortune and prosperity, as well as a measure of fame.

The Ziqi Star carries an image of solitude. It may lead someone to leave home to become a Buddhist monk or Daoist priest, or to wander far from home.

An old verse says: When the Ziqi Star falls into a palace where it has lost its strength, a person may spend their whole life as no more than a poor, aging Confucian scholar.

If a person has Ziwei in the Zi palace, wealth, status, and achievement will become widely known. If there are no punitive clashes or unusual stars to disrupt the configuration, and no “Rabbit” star to cause upheaval, the marriage is more likely to be stable and harmonious.

When the Ziqi Star returns to a suitable position, it governs outstanding literary talent and learning. If it shares a palace with an auspicious star, recognition and achievement are more readily attained.

When Ziqi is in the Hai, You, Zi, or Si palace, it indicates long life, prosperity, talent, and a reputation for virtue that earns others’ respect. One may wear purple robes and a gold belt, enjoying distinction and wealth, and attaining an honorable official rank.

When Ziqi meets Ziwei and auspicious stars shine upon them, a person’s spirit and fortune grow stronger. If they also encounter stars such as Guxiu and Tianchong while in an idle position, the person may become a Buddhist monk or Daoist priest, or practice various crafts, arts, or esoteric techniques.

When Ziqi enters the Body Palace or the Life Palace, it indicates longevity; it is more auspicious when placed in a flourishing, peaceful position. If it appears alongside an esteemed star, a person may gain distinction in a civil office such as the Hanlin Academy. If Tianren is also present, they may serve in a government office.

Ziqi signifies a quiet, unhurried life and is often found in the charts of people who practice a craft. If stars such as Gui and Bi are also present, the configuration appears more refined and distinguished. Such a person may combine literary and military abilities, excel at planning, and gain fame and profit amid changing circumstances, bringing renewal to many aspects of life.

Ziwei most favors meeting the Miao Star, which indicates abundant wealth and flourishing good fortune. When placed in the Children’s Palace, Life Palace, or Career Palace, it often indicates an upright, refined temperament and a smooth, successful life.

The Tianxu Star belongs to Water and is Yin. In the system that assigns the Five Phases to the directions, it corresponds to the Wu position.

When the Tianxu Star enters the Body Palace or the Life Palace, the Yin, Shen, Si, and Hai palaces may bring wealth, but it is often illusory. In the Chou or Wu palace, by contrast, it indicates glory, prosperity, and high status. If it falls in a Career Palace where it has lost strength, the family estate may be ruined, leaving little behind.

When the Tianxu Star falls in the Body Palace or Life Palace, its effects depend on its position. In Yin, Shen, Si, or Hai, it may bring wealth, but often with more show than substance. In Chou or Wu, it can bring honor and riches. If it is debilitated in the Career Palace, the native’s career and family wealth may be ruined.

Better to set aside idle thoughts of romance, and sleep alone beside the plum blossoms in a paper-screened room.

Interpretive Verse:

In Chou and Wu, the Tianxu Star truly signifies wealth and status; in Si, Hai, Yin, and Shen, there is more emptiness than substance.

If the “Maotou” Star shines upon it, farmland and family property may be lost entirely.

Interpretive Verse:

The Tianxu Star is best placed in Chou or Wu. If it meets stars in their dignified and flourishing positions, it will not bring calamity.

Do not trust deceptive, empty words. With good planning, there may be a chance to rise to prominence and accumulate wealth.

Interpretive Verse:

Peach and plum blossoms open quietly in the spring days of the third month. Who is there to keep them company among their emerald branches and leaves?

The Tianxu Star is like a radiance in the sky that fades and melts away. If it falls in the Wealth Palace or Career Palace, the native may live in poverty for half their life.

Even if auspicious stars arrive to help and dispel its effects, the outcome may still be mixed, with both good and ill.

Interpretive Verse:

Advance, and you seem shoulder to shoulder with the immortals; retreat, and your ties to the dusty world have yet to be severed.

When the Tianxu Star enters a dignified and flourishing position in the Body Palace or Life Palace, a well-placed star can bring Yin and Yang energies into balance.

Even with inauspicious stars surrounding it, a person may rise to prominence for a time, yet still face hardship, as if dust had settled on their brow.

The Tiangui Star belongs to Earth and is Yin in nature. It is associated with the Yin and Chen palaces.

When the Tiangui Star enters the Life Palace, it can bring distinction and renown. In the Yin or Chen palace, if well placed, it signifies abundant possessions, honor, and riches, and even the ability to command servants. Yin and Yang energies are also well suited to settle into balance.

Even with inauspicious stars surrounding it, a person may rise to prominence for a time, yet still face hardship, as if dust had settled on their brow.

The Tiangui Star belongs to Earth and is Yin in nature. It is associated with the Yin and Chen palaces.

When the Tiangui Star is well placed in the Yin or Chen palace, it signifies abundant possessions, honor, and riches, as well as the ability to command servants. Calamities are rare throughout life, plans tend to succeed, and life is prosperous.

Interpretive Verse:

The Tiangui Star is best placed in Yin or Chen. If the “Maotou” Star shines upon it, it will be difficult to enjoy prosperity and riches.

When the “Zhang” Star shines upon it, a person may become poor and lowly, like the flowering papaya produced in Xuanzhou: pleasing to look at, but of no practical use.

Interpretive Verse:

When the Tiangui Star is in a dignified and flourishing position in the Shen, Zi, Chen, Hai, or Yin palace, a person may gain an elegant and upright reputation in youth. Their name may appear on the imperial examination list, and good fortune will flourish.

Interpretive Verse:

When the Tiangui Star meets the Lu Star and Fude, and enters the Body Palace or Life Palace, the native may become a person of the imperial palace.

With the Literary Star and Seal Star shining from the side, one may hope to enter the court as an official and rise to the Purple Palace, the emperor’s residence and, by extension, the imperial court.

When the Noble Star enters a temple position, where its power is strong, and falls in the Body Palace or Life Palace, encountering it in a period of fortune or a fate cycle brings abundant blessings and emoluments. One gains a reputation at a young age, makes a name by placing in the imperial examinations, and enjoys deep blessings and good fortune.

The Judgment on the Trigram:

The Celestial Noble Star is assessed through the Emolument position and the Palace of Blessings and Virtue. If it occupies the Body Palace or Life Palace, one may become a member of the imperial household. With the Literary Star and Seal Star shining from the side, one may hope to enter the court as an official and rise to the Purple Palace.

When the Noble Star enters a temple position and falls in the Body Palace or Life Palace, encountering it in a period of fortune or a fate cycle brings abundant blessings and emoluments. One’s wealth may be as great as a mountain; as an official, one may rank among the Three Excellencies, the highest offices of antiquity.

Celestial Seal: belongs to Yang Earth and corresponds to the earthly branches Zi, Mao, Chen, and Hai.

When the Celestial Seal Star in a birth chart shines upon the Body Palace or Life Palace, a woman will be quick-witted and a man will gain renown. If no baleful stars arrive, one may wield authority from a young age. If unusual stars arrive alongside it, one may suffer an early death or illness, experience little ease in life, and face danger for much of one’s years. If the Celestial Staff Star is present, one may use power and influence to gain rank in official life. A concubine may bear a son, while the principal wife may have no children.

The Judgment on the Trigram:

The Celestial Seal is inherently auspicious, but if it shares a lodge with the Untamed Star, it is best to keep one’s distance. The Celestial Seal favors the Zi and Mao palaces, signifying command of the military and service as a high-ranking general.

When the Celestial Seal occupies the Zi, Mao, Chen, or Si palace, it can bring eminence and splendor. One holds high office and great authority, inspiring envy; one’s distinguished reputation spreads throughout the capital.

The Celestial Seal in the Body Palace signifies power and authority. If the three related palaces in the chart also receive support from auspicious stars, the Zi, Mao, Chen, and Si palaces can bring eminence and splendor. One holds high office and great authority, inspiring envy, and one’s distinguished reputation spreads throughout the capital.

The Celestial Seal in the Body Palace signifies power and authority. If the three related palaces are strong and shine upon the Body Palace and Life Palace, and neither the Empty and Weeping Star nor the Unusual and Strange Star is present, one may enjoy both wealth and rank and live out a long life in comfort.

When the Seal Star enters a temple position, it is especially auspicious: disasters recede and blessings follow. Auspicious stars must also assist in the birth chart; then, from a young age, one may prosper smoothly and rise step by step.

Celestial Longevity: belongs to Yang Earth and corresponds to the earthly branches Hai, You, and Xu.

When the Celestial Longevity Star stands alone in a palace, it signifies that one will have children and not be left alone. One will have few legal disputes throughout life and may avoid many calamities. If this star is not fallen, one’s blessings are deep and the family estate ample. If the palace contains no malefic stars, one’s lifespan may approach that of Peng Zu.

Position:

The Judgment on the Trigram:

When the Celestial Treasury Star is in the Si, Hai, or Wu palace, it brings the accumulation of countless treasures of gold and jade.

If the “Mao Cry” star comes to the Life Palace, the person may be prone to poverty and illness throughout life. Even in childhood, they may have an exceptionally strong memory, as though they can recall many events from long ago.

Judgment

The Heavenly Treasury star, which symbolizes a storehouse of wealth, comes to the Lion Palace. The same auspicious signs apply if it is in the Si or Hai Palace. If there are no inauspicious stars in the three related palaces, the person may accumulate great wealth and become rich.

Judgment

When the Treasury and String of Cash stars are in their temple positions, where their power is strong, this is called “Heaven’s Aid.” Such people are resourceful and quick-witted. They can have enough food and clothing without relying on gold or silver; even without an illustrious reputation, they may still be wealthy.

If there are no inauspicious stars in the three related palaces, the person may accumulate great wealth and become rich.

Judgment

When the Treasury and String of Cash stars are in their temple positions, this is called “Heaven’s Aid.” Such people are resourceful and quick-witted. They can have enough food and clothing without relying on gold or silver; even if they cannot make a name for themselves, they should still be wealthy.

Wenchang, the star governing literary accomplishment and learning, represents Yang, belongs to Wood, and corresponds to the Earthly Branches Yin, Wu, and Xu.

When Wenchang shines on the Body Palace or Life Palace, a man may speak with uncommon eloquence, expressing himself in polished prose; a woman may be deft and skilled at embroidery. Even without deliberately pursuing scholarship in youth, the person may become well known. If Wenchang appears in the Career Palace, which is associated with work and official rank, the person often rises through literary skill and learning. Wenchang in the Yin, Wu, or Xu Palace is especially auspicious, signifying outstanding talent and abundant blessings. The person may pass the imperial examinations while still young and excel among their peers. If the Heavenly Staff star is also present, however, the person may be poor and lowly, with nothing but an empty reputation throughout life.

Judgment

Wenchang in the Xu Palace, or meeting Yin and Wu, signifies honor and prosperity; the person may wear splendid robes and headwear. They may also become prominent in civil institutions such as the Hanlin Academy, earning distinction through exceptional writing.

Judgment

Wenchang in a temple or exalted position generally indicates intelligence, talent, and outstanding literary skill, bringing honor through learning. Even in an unfavorable position, if supported by a noble star, the person may be perceptive and capable in public or private affairs, and become known for this.

Judgment

When the auspicious Wenchang star comes to the Body Palace or Life Palace, it signifies an opportunity to earn a distinguished official degree and surpass ordinary people. If the Red Luan star, which governs marriage and celebrations, joins it, the person may be outstanding in both appearance and talent, with all affairs proceeding smoothly.

Judgment

When the Fortune and Virtue star comes to the Body Palace or Life Palace, it signifies that blessings and official income arrive together.

Judgment

When Red Luan is in its temple position and comes to the Body Palace or Life Palace, the person is beautiful, like Guanyin. They are gentle and kind, outstanding in appearance, character, and talent, and respected by all.

Guansuo, the star symbolizing entanglement and obstruction, represents Yin, belongs to Earth, and corresponds to Mao, Si, Wu, Wei, and Hai.

When Guansuo shines on the Body Palace or Life Palace, it often indicates that the person will achieve success in many areas of life. They are gentle and kind, outstanding, and respected by all.

Guansuo belongs to Yin Earth and corresponds to Mao, Si, Wu, Wei, and Hai.

When the Guansuo Star shines into the Body Palace or Life Palace, it indicates many ups and downs throughout life, with success and failure alternating and good fortune mixed with misfortune. If the Maotou Star is also present, the person may die young, like Yan Hui, a disciple of Confucius who was said to have died early. If the Zhang Star shines alongside it, the person may live to a great age, like Peng Zu, the legendary long-lived figure. When the Guansuo Star is in the Si or Hai palace, where it is favorably placed, it brings abundant wealth and income in old age.

Explanation of the Judgment: The Guansuo Star is powerful in the Si and Hai palaces. It can bring prosperity to the household and opportunities to acquire farmland.

When the Tianzhang Star shines from the side, it indicates many children. If the Caomao Star is encountered, however, the person may be unable to raise even one son.

Explanation of the Judgment: The Guansuo Star is also called “Dongxuan.” When it meets the birth chart in the Wei, Shen, Si, or Hai palace, it indicates wealth and high status, with gold and jade piled up like earth and extensive holdings of property and farmland.

Explanation of the Judgment: The Guansuo Star is also called “Dongwei.” Encountering this star in one’s birth chart indicates a sound foundation. Without the Tianyi and Maotou stars shining upon it, life will proceed safely and smoothly, bringing benefits.

The Tianku Star is associated with Yang and belongs to the Earth phase. Its listed palaces are Mao, Si, Hai, and Wu.

The Tianku Star signifies wealth and high status. Women often have opportunities to acquire farmland, while men readily attain prominence and rank. Its power to gather wealth is stronger in the Si, Hai, and Wu palaces; even in times of danger, the person is unlikely to panic or give in to fear. This star usually indicates three sons. If it is in the same palace as, or aspected by, the Xingren Star, only one son will survive.

Explanation of the Judgment: When the Tianshou Star enters the Life Palace, it indicates longevity, and is most favorable in the Hai and You palaces. If the Ren Star and Ku Star also shine upon it, the person may eventually attain high status and rise to the rank of a marquis or king.

Explanation of the Judgment: The Tianshou Star is auspicious. In the You and Hai palaces, it can extend one’s lifespan. If other auspicious stars also shine upon it, longevity is more assured, and blessings and income will prosper as well.

Explanation of the Judgment: The Tianshou Star is also called “Laoren” (the Elder). When it falls in the Body Palace or Life Palace, it indicates good character and a sound foundation in life. The person will be respected and admired, and can achieve distinction, income, and wealth.

Explanation of the Judgment: The auspicious Tianshou Star governs blessings. When it occupies a strong position, it naturally brings good fortune. Such a person may serve as a general in the field or a chancellor at court, and is often likened to the worthy minister Fu Yue.

The Hongluan Star is associated with Yin and belongs to the Metal phase. Its listed palaces are Chen, Chou, and Yin.

The Red Phoenix Star governs auspicious celebrations. People born under this star are usually tall. Men tend to marry young, while women, if they are not harmed by adverse influences, will also experience joyful events. When the Red Phoenix is in the Chen or Chou palaces, it signifies intelligence and prosperity. If no inauspicious star shares its palace, the person may enjoy a peaceful, long life, remaining vigorous well into their eighties. The Red Phoenix’s auspicious signs are chiefly associated with beauty and good fortune.

The Red Phoenix brings celebration, but its auspicious influence is weakened when an inauspicious star shares its palace. If it also encounters malefic forces such as Punishment Stars or Blade Stars, the situation resembles a pond lotus broken by frost: setbacks are likely.

The Red Phoenix is auspicious by nature. When it moves through the Hai and Yin palaces, and the area around the Chou palace, it signifies a blessed life, with good fortune and smooth progress through much of one’s years, as well as the prospect of distinction and a rank among princes and nobles.

When the course of one’s fortune accords with the birth chart and auspicious signs appear, the person is destined to wear a gold belt at the waist and purple robes, serve a worthy ruler, and enjoy high status.

The Celestial Fortune Star is Yang in nature, belongs to the Earth phase of the Five Phases, and is associated with Shen and Mao.

The Celestial Fortune Star in one’s birth chart indicates an excellent destiny. Women are often beautiful and dignified; men tend to marry young and have children early. Unless malefic stars clash with it, the person will generally enjoy abundant wealth. The star is especially favorable in the Shen and Mao palaces: calamities are few, parents and siblings are present, and spouses can remain together until old age.

In the Shen and Mao palaces, the Celestial Fortune Star signifies talent and outstanding literary ability, along with the prospect of wearing a gold belt and gaining renown. If the Weeping Star or Void Star shares its palace, the person may instead face poverty or a shortened life, which is regrettable.

When the Celestial Fortune Star falls in the body palace and the life palace, it signifies a generous nature and abundant vitality. If a Fortune Star also casts its light from one of the three related palaces, the person may attain wealth and high status.

The auspicious Celestial Fortune Star is strongest when it occupies a favorable position, especially in the body palace or life palace. It signifies flourishing fortune and status, and distinguished descendants. If the three related palaces remain undamaged, the person’s share of fortune will be even greater.

The Celestial Emolument Star is Yang in nature, belongs to the Wood phase of the Five Phases, and is associated with Si and Shen.

When the Celestial Emolument Star occupies a favorable position, it is especially well placed in the body palace or life palace. It signifies flourishing fortune and status, and distinguished descendants. If the three related palaces remain undamaged, the person’s share of fortune will be even greater.

When the Star of Emolument enters the natal chart without malefic stars nearby, the native is usually intelligent and talented, and plans tend to go smoothly. If the Star of Emolument is in the Si or Shen position, the Body Palace and Life Palace are considered well placed. If three auspicious stars also gather there, the native can achieve success in their career and acquire fields and property, provided the “Furry Star” is not in the same palace.

The Great Ultimate Heavenly Emolument is already in a suitable position, and the auspicious stars it encounters are all well placed. If the Furry Star is not in the same palace as the Star of Emolument, the native can attain career success and official distinction through their own efforts.

The Star of Emolument’s Origin governs scholarly rank and official distinction. The native may enjoy wealth, status, and honor; they may also assist the ruler in achieving great things, or even become a member of the imperial family or nobility.

When the Star of Emolument is in Shen or Si, it is called the “Three Platforms.” Fortune and desired outcomes will come naturally, and the native will have ample food and material wealth throughout life. If a literary star joins it, the native may rank among the best in writing and the civil service examinations.

When Heavenly Emolument enters the natal chart, it brings abundant happiness and blessings. The native holds authority and enjoys standing in official life. With the support of the Star of Good Fortune and the Star of Literary Brilliance, the native can put their talents to use and live comfortably and well.

The Heavenly Staff Star belongs to Yang Wood. Its associated directions and earthly branches are Wei, Hai, Zi, and Shen. Known as the “Heavenly Staff,” it is said in the ancient verses to possibly bring a concubine. Men may have an unhappy marriage and struggle to have children; childbirth may be difficult, and poverty or an early death are also possible.

If the Heavenly Staff falls in a temple or exalted position, it can bring honor and nobility and avert calamity. If the Body Palace falls in an associated position, it indicates an upright, benevolent, and blessed nature.

If the native does not fall under the ill omen of growing fur and horns and turning into an animal, they may still be driven by others like a donkey or horse. The Heavenly Staff especially favors the Officer Star being in Hai or Zi. Even if the native becomes wealthy and eminent, they may remain alone throughout their life.

The Heavenly Staff is best placed in the Hai or Zi palace, where it gathers with stars in the Shen or You palace. In this configuration, affairs generally go smoothly and meet few obstacles. With the support of the Star of Longevity, the native may live longer and avoid calamity.

The native has a refined appearance and handles affairs with care. When the Heavenly Staff Star enters the natal chart, auspicious stars that counteract its effects and benevolent stars that join it can lessen its adverse influence. If the star appears while the native is serving or working under someone else, they may also take up an official post and carry out their duties with ease.

The Tuan says: When the Staff Star occupies the lunar position, it presages misfortune. But if the Life and Body are in the Gate of Heaven, calamities will fade of their own accord.

When the Celestial Staff enters its temple—that is, a favorable position—it is called “Celestial Might” and symbolizes command of military power and the pacification of the four quarters. If it enters the Life Palace and receives the aid of auspicious stars, meeting with benevolent stars as well, its authority can be brought fully to bear. Even when it encounters clashes and afflictions, sound handling may still lead to official appointment and the ability to carry out affairs with composure.

The Tuan also says: When the Staff Star occupies the lunar position, it presages misfortune. But if the Life and Body are in the Gate of Heaven, calamities will fade of their own accord.

When the Celestial Staff enters its temple, it is called “Celestial Might” and symbolizes command of military power and the pacification of the four quarters. This star is inherently a baleful star of authority, but under favorable conditions it can turn misfortune into good fortune and bring far-reaching renown.

The Celestial Anomaly Star is yin in nature and belongs to the Earth phase. It governs the Chen, Chou, and Wei palaces.

When the Celestial Anomaly Star shares a palace with the Void Star, the meeting of these two baleful stars is said, paradoxically, to keep a person from dying young. Overall, however, this star brings little good and much misfortune. It can bring harm to one’s parents and bode ill for siblings and children; ancestral property is difficult to retain, family wealth may be exhausted, and one may wander far and wide throughout life. The Celestial Anomaly Star is more favorable in the Wei, Chou, and Chen palaces. If auspicious stars also shine upon it and a Fortune Star joins the meeting, its blessings and prosperity will be greater.

The Tuan says: If the Life and Body encounter the Celestial Anomaly and Void Stars directly, there is no need for excessive worry, even when traveling far from home. But if punitive stars also clash with and break them, the situation is like a cooking fire scattered by the wind: stability is hard to achieve.

The Tuan also says: The Celestial Anomaly Star is generally considered inauspicious, but fares well in the Chou, Wei, and Chen palaces. In the Chen or Si palace, calamities are fewer and joyful events more common; ventures of many kinds are also more likely to prosper.

The Tuan says: Separation weighs most heavily on the heart, and the Celestial Messenger Star brings sorrow and vexation. The scripture describes the instability of marriage with the saying, “A widow with three husbands still finds it insufficient; a solitary man with five wives has yet to marry.”

The Tuan also says: When the Celestial Anomaly Star enters its temple and occupies a favorable palace, it is easy to amass wealth and enjoy abundant provisions. If the Property Palace is also strong, family property and one’s home will flourish further; one must still consider whether auspicious stars support the Life and Body palaces.

The “Hairy Head Image” is yin in nature and belongs to the Water phase. It governs the Zi, Mao, Wei, Yin, and Xu palaces.

The star “Maotou” is considered auspicious mainly when it shares a palace with, or receives the influence of, bright and powerful stars. If it enters a person’s fate chart alone, classical texts say women may face an unhappy marriage, lose a husband, or suffer the loss of children; men may also experience changes in their marriages. Such a person cannot rely on family inheritance and must make a living through their own efforts. They are unlikely to go hungry or lack clothing, but may toil for much of their life, lose money, and be deceived by others, making it difficult to preserve what they have.

When Maotou falls in places such as Mao, Zi, Yin, or Xu, the person is usually quiet and easygoing, and relatively intelligent. A man who does not become wealthy may attain high status; a woman who does not attain high status is still likely to be quick-witted.

When Maotou appears with inauspicious stars such as “Cry” or “Blade,” classical texts say the person may struggle to find stability and often chase fame and profit. Even if the family inheritance is exhausted, their children may not remain by their side for long. A meeting with auspicious stars may still bring blessings. Although Maotou carries an inauspicious nature, its influence may turn favorable when it encounters auspicious stars: some people may be entrusted with important responsibilities and sent to guard the frontier.

If Maotou shares a palace with malefic stars, even auspicious stars may turn its influence unfavorable, and the person may face hardship throughout life. Even with the support of favorable stars, they may still be prone to legal disputes. But if Maotou is in a temple position, where its power is strong, and falls in the Body Palace or Life Palace, classical texts say the person may have the bearing of a military official, earn a far-reaching reputation, and be able to defend the frontier and pacify all quarters.

“Tianren” symbolizes the yin aspect and belongs to the Metal phase of the Five Phases. It is commonly associated with the earthly branches Shen, Si, Wu, Yin, and You. When Tianren alone enters the Life Palace, a man may establish himself independently if the chart’s wealth and fortune pattern is favorable, but may have an unhappy marriage. A woman is said to be prone to bringing harm to her husband and children. The person may seem solitary and suffer few disasters, yet have only weak ties with parents and siblings; their spouse, children, and servants may also be unable to remain with them for long.

When Tianren and Ziren repeatedly overlap, classical texts say their combined presence brings disaster. If they are also joined by malefic stars in one of the four strongest positions, and water and fire signs are present, the person may face a severe calamity at a young age, or even die prematurely.

When the calamity of bloodshed strikes the Life Palace, it is bound to cause injury or disability. If the Punishment Star and Blade Star invade together, they also bring danger.

A person’s six-foot body may be killed by a tiger’s bite, or they may fall into the water and die in a stream or ravine.

When the Blade Star and Punishment Star occupy the same palace, the parents are likely to suffer harm. A man may have to be adopted by another family as a son. If a woman has these two stars in the same palace or under their influence, the Blade Star’s presence in her fate may mean she marries young.

Without good fortune or protective influences, a person is likely to suffer bodily injury or facial disfigurement. Even with protection, their misfortune may affect close relatives, such as parents, siblings, spouse, and children.

The Celestial Blade Star brings calamity through bloodshed. If it is also accompanied by a malefic star moving in retrograde, the disaster will grow more severe when the period of misfortune arrives.

If the stars occupy exalted positions, where their power is strong, the person may rise to high rank as a civil official or military commander. They must still beware of underestimating their opponents, or their achievements may come to nothing.

The Jade Star shines intensely when it enters a place of the Eight Killings. The Axe Star in the Wealth Palace, however, means that blessings are incomplete. If the Punishment Star is not in an exalted position, disaster and distress may arise that year, as perilous as being trapped in a serpent’s belly.

When the Celestial Blade Star occupies the positions of Si, Wu, or Shen and encounters the position of Yin, it portends distinction and glory. A person may achieve great things through martial valor, win a renowned name, wield great authority, and command a large army.

When the malefic Celestial Blade Star enters the White Sheep position, it casts its influence in every direction, taking command and displaying its abilities. If the person gains wealth and distinction, the star’s influence turns auspicious.

The Celestial Punishment represents the Yin principle. It belongs to the Fire phase and is associated with Yin, Wu, You, and Xu.

When the Punishment Star travels alone, it is called “Three Unfulfilled.” This means that life is often marked by things left incomplete: a person may become a Buddhist monk or Daoist, find it difficult to marry, or face an uncertain future. Their fate is lonely. If they are not alone, they may have few siblings, may not have both parents, or may have only brief ties with a spouse or servants.

When the three palaces are afflicted, a person may suffer bodily harm, die in a frenzy, or meet calamity through hanging.

When fate brings danger like a thunderbolt, how can one not fear? If the Punishment Star falls upon a person, disaster may follow. If the Life Palace is afflicted and the person’s lifespan is short, the presence of an evil star may mean death by lightning.

The “Three Unfulfilled” Star is the Celestial Punishment. Those born under it may become Buddhist monks or Daoist priests and live alone. If the Blade Star and Crying Star also enter the Life Palace, they face the danger of a sudden fatal calamity, and may even die by lightning.

The three “Unfinished Stars” are the Heavenly Punishment Star. People with this star in their birth chart may leave home to become Buddhist monks or Daoist priests, and live alone.

When the stars Qingyang and Crying Spirit both occupy the Life Palace, a person is often frail and frequently ill from childhood or throughout life; illness seems never far away.

Judgment

When the Heavenly Lust Star falls in the Xu, Mao, or Chen palace, one must also consider whether it appears alongside the Pisces palace (here, a term describing the position of a star). Even with abundant blessings, a person may easily become absorbed in drinking and desire. If disaster does not strike, they can pass through life in peace.

Judgment

The Heavenly Lust Star is the Xianchi Star, associated with desire and romantic entanglements.

The Xianchi Star carries an inauspicious force. If it also encounters a Water star, it can invite spirits and demons or fire, and is also associated with sexual excess. Even stars such as Bathing and Advancing Spirit, which may bring status, can lead a person to ruin through desire, making even beauty that could captivate an entire kingdom a source of misfortune.

Judgment

When the Heavenly Lust Star shares a palace with a Decline Star, it is called the Broom Star of the human world and signifies ill fortune. Such people toil throughout their lives, often laboring and traveling about, and rarely find ease at home.

Judgment

When the Heavenly Lust Star is in its temple position—a place suited to its influence—and is well matched with other stars, it can turn auspicious. When it appears in a person’s cycle of fortune, it generally brings good luck and prosperity. If the person also has a virtuous wife, this can further increase blessings and income, bringing smooth progress and high status.

The Five Phases of the Eighteen Stars

Crying, Blade, Bow, Metal, Fire, and Punishment belong to Metal; Purple, Pattern, Staff, and Emolument belong to Wood; Mao, Lust, and Emptiness belong to Water; Noble and Blessing belong to Earth. The Five Phase affiliations of Seal, Longevity, Storehouse, and String vary, though some belong to Earth.

Whenever stars enter the Body Palace or Life Palace, first consider the Five Phase affiliation of each. Then, taking into account the stars that shine upon one another at the time of birth and the three harmonies and four directions—the palaces in the chart that correspond with the palace under consideration—examine which stars occupy the relevant palaces. Use the cycles of generation and control among the Five Phases to judge blessings, emoluments, good fortune, and misfortune.

Essentials of the Four-Character Summary Method in the Immortal Classic That Penetrates to the Bones

The verse says:

When primordial Qi blends as one, Heaven and Earth are undivided, and the Five Phases have yet to appear.

Heaven, Earth, and humanity begin to differentiate, and Yin and Yang arise from this.

Same Birth, Different Punishments

Destiny may be auspicious or inauspicious, and people differ as male and female.

Though they belong to the same category, their differing configurations of destiny bring different forms of punishment and different experiences; all these differences follow the same underlying principle.

The verse also says:

When primordial Qi blends as one, Heaven and Earth are undivided, and the Five Phases have yet to appear.

Heaven, Earth, and humanity begin to differentiate, and Yin and Yang arise from this.

Same Birth, Different Punishments

Destiny may be auspicious or inauspicious, and people differ as male and female.

Though they belong to the same category, their differing configurations of destiny bring different forms of punishment and different experiences; all these differences follow the same underlying principle.

Longevity, Phoenix, Storehouse, Literary Brilliance, Blessing, and Emolument

The Purple Star, Nobleman, Seal and Ribbon, Heavenly Longevity, and Red Phoenix,

as well as the Storehouse Star, Connected Rope, and Literary Brilliance, are all associated with blessings and emoluments.

Auspicious Stars Move Leftward

These are called auspicious stars, and they move leftward with the years. When auspicious stars shine upon the Body Palace or Life Palace, they often bring remarkable wealth and high status.

“Staff,” “Strange,” “Hair,” “Blade,” “Yao,” “Weeping,” and “Xing” are all inauspicious stars. When they appear in the Life Palace, a person’s fortunes are liable to suffer setbacks. Yet each star also has positions suited to it, and stars move in cycles through the different palaces, so good and ill fortune are not fixed.

The Ziwei Star favors the Shen, Zi, Si, You, and Hai palaces, where it signifies honor and prominence.

The Tianxu Star favors the Chen, Wu, Wei, You, and Hai palaces, where it signifies honor and prominence. It is also well placed in the Chen, Chou, and Wu palaces.

The Tiangui Star favors the Yin, Chen, Hai, Mao, and Wei palaces. Its position in Yin or Chen, or in Hai or Mao, is also considered suitable.

The Tianyin Star favors the Zi, Mao, and Chen palaces, where it signifies authority and prestige. When Tianyin occupies one of these palaces in the Body Palace or Life Palace, a person may attain prominence without seeking it.

The Tianshou Star favors the Hai and You palaces. In the Yin palace, it is in a temple and flourishing position—a place where a star is especially strong and auspicious. When Tianshou occupies the Hai, You, or Yin palace and forms oppositions, reflections, or conjunctions with stars in other palaces, it indicates smoother fortunes.

The Hongluan Star favors the Chen, Chou, Yin, Mao, and Hai palaces.

The Kugui Star favors the Mao, Si, Wu, and Wei palaces, while the Ku Star favors the Hai palace. The palace positions of stars such as Kugui and Ku must not be confused.

The Wenchang Star favors the Yin, Wu, and Xu palaces. It signifies success in the civil examinations and advancement in official service, potentially reaching the rank of minister or chancellor. Wenchang is also considered well placed in the Mao, Si, Wu, Wei, and Hai palaces.

The Fulu Star favors the Yin, Mao, Si, and Wu palaces. In the Shen palace, it forms a configuration associated with attaining the rank of minister or chancellor. Fulu also signifies success in the civil examinations and advancement in office.

The Tianzhang Star favors the Zi, Shen, and Hai palaces. It is relatively strong in the Zi and Shen palaces, and in a temple and flourishing position in the Hai and Wei palaces. When it occupies a strong position and is joined or supported by other stars, it indicates wealth and prestige.

The Mao Star favors the Zi and Mao palaces and is also suited to the Wei, Yin, and Xu palaces. It is said to make a person bold and decisive, with powerful financial prospects.

The Yi Star favors the Chou, Yin, and Chen palaces.

The original text again mentions the Mao Star: its placement in the Zi and Mao palaces, as well as in the Wei, Yin, and Xu palaces, is considered suitable. A person under its influence is said to be bold and decisive, with powerful financial prospects.

This star favors the Chou, Yin, and Chen palaces. In the Yin and Xu palaces, it often signifies wealth. It also represents exceptional courage and boldness, swift and fierce as lightning.

The Heavenly Eccentric Star is more favorable in the Chou and Yin palaces; in the Chen and Wei palaces, it signifies broad learning.

The Heavenly Blade Star favors the Shen, Si, Wu, and Yin palaces. In the Shen and Si palaces it is called “Blade,” while in the Wu and Yin palaces it is called “Taking Root.”

The Heavenly Yao Star favors the Mao and Chen palaces. In the Xu and Hai palaces, it is said to “enter its enclosure,” meaning it occupies a position suited to its influence. An old formula also says that when the Heavenly Yao Star is in the Mao, Chen, Xu, or Hai palace, it signifies charm and amorousness, and may even suggest sexual impropriety.

This star favors the Yin, You, and Xu palaces, where its placement in the chart is auspicious. It is said to “enter its enclosure”; according to an old formula, people with this placement are charming and refined.

In the Yin and You palaces, the Heavenly Punishment Star is called “Heavenly Punishment.” In the Xu palace, it is said to be “without response,” meaning that it lacks support or assistance.

The Heavenly Weeping Star is commonly found in the Chou, Shen, Mao, and Wu palaces.

When an inauspicious star takes on an auspicious aspect, it is called “finding its proper place”—that is, occupying a position suited to it.

When an auspicious star falls into a weakened position, where its power is diminished and difficult to express, its auspicious and inauspicious effects cancel each other out. Such a person is often said to be versatile, enjoy good fortune in wealth, and become known far and wide.

If Punishment or Blade stars fall into weakened positions and encounter other baleful stars, it is said that the person may not meet a peaceful end.

When the Heavenly Blade, Heavenly Punishment, and Blade stars occur together, the combination is generally considered inauspicious. An old formula says that encountering a Punishment star may make it difficult to live out one’s natural lifespan.

The Heavenly Blade is auspicious when it occupies a strong, flourishing position, where other baleful stars can scarcely disturb it. If it falls into a weakened position, its auspicious and inauspicious effects cancel each other out. Such a person is often said to be versatile, enjoy good fortune in wealth, and become known far and wide. If Punishment or Blade stars are weakened and encounter baleful stars, the old formula still warns that the person may not meet a peaceful end; the Heavenly Blade and Heavenly Punishment together are also considered inauspicious. A star is regarded as secure only when it occupies a strong, flourishing position or enters its enclosure.

The Heavenly Seal Star signifies authority, wealth, and high status. When the Seal star is well placed, it represents power and abundant blessings. If it falls in the Body or Life palace, an old formula describes the person as wealthy and honored, possessing great stores of gold and pearls. If it also meets baleful stars, its blessings are halved; if the Seal star is weakened, it suggests loneliness and affliction.

The Heavenly Longevity Star signifies kindness and abundant blessings. When well placed, it is said to enable a person to meet even baleful stars with composure and to advance or withdraw with ease.

If the Heavenly Longevity Star is well placed and also meets the Heavenly Weeping Star, an old formula says the person is likely to die young.

The Heavenly Treasury Star signifies unexpected wealth and happy events. When well placed, it is called “windfall wealth.” If auspicious stars appear in the Life or Body palace, it suggests wealth arriving as if from heaven.

When the Weeping Star, associated with crying and misfortune, meets another star, it is generally taken as a sign of an early death. If the star is well placed and also encounters the Weeping Star, the indication of an early death is even stronger.

The Heavenly Treasury Star governs unexpected wealth and happy events. When well placed, the Heavenly Treasury is called “windfall wealth.” If auspicious stars meet the Body Palace or Life Palace, wealth may come as if from heaven.

When the Punishment-and-Staff Star, associated with penalties and authority, joins another star and gains strength, it signifies power and authority. Its meeting with another star may also make a person stubborn and eccentric in their conduct.

The meeting of the Hair Star signifies the loss of ancestral property. When the Yao Star, associated with desire and romantic attraction, is inauspicious, it signifies sexual excess and unrestrained behavior.

The Heavenly Thread Star governs abundant family property. The Linked Cord Star, also known as the “Treasure Storehouse,” signifies plentiful wealth and a thriving household.

If all these stars are poorly placed, they signify disputes and the ruin of the family. If, while poorly placed, they also encounter inauspicious stars, legal troubles and conflicts will continue, and the family will decline.

When the Literary Prosperity Star is poorly placed, it can easily bring disputes. When well placed, it is called the Heavenly Leader Star and signifies outstanding literary talent, flourishing success in scholarship, and accompanying good fortune.

When the Hollow Chamber Star is poorly placed, it is inauspicious. If it encounters inauspicious stars, it can easily bring disputes.

When the Red Phoenix Star, associated with celebrations and romantic ties, is well placed, it signifies a dignified and graceful bearing. If a person becomes absorbed in drink and sensual pleasures, it signifies indulgence in wine and romantic pursuits without restraint.

When the Hollow Chamber Star encounters auspicious stars, the result is auspicious; when it encounters inauspicious stars, the result is inauspicious. This applies to both men and women: their destinies may be distinguished or humble.

When the Heavenly Blessing Fire Star is well placed, its blessings are deep and as steady as a mountain.

If it also encounters auspicious stars, its qualities become more exceptional, signifying extraordinary wealth and honor.

If the Heavenly Blessing Fire Star is poorly placed and encounters inauspicious stars, its original good signs turn into calamity. When this occurs in the Life Palace or during a major fortune period, a person will often find their circumstances difficult to endure.

When the Heavenly Emolument Star is well positioned, it signifies a lifetime of glory and distinction.

The Yao Star increases affection and favor. If it encounters no inauspicious stars, it brings lasting blessings and the accumulation of wealth.

The Other Star signifies isolation and is also associated with literary and military ability. Meeting the Yao Star can increase affection and favor; when the Other Star meets the Solitary Star, it can easily lead to isolation.

The meeting of the Blade Star signifies achievement in literary or military pursuits. If the Blade Star is weakened, it signifies illness.

The Heavenly Staff Star governs punishment and confinement. When well placed, the Staff Star also signifies power and prominence. When poorly placed, it signifies a forceful temperament and a risk of punishment, imprisonment, or other legal confinement.

The Heavenly Change Star governs transformation and change, and is favorable for changing one’s ancestral surname. When the Different-Surname Star is well placed, it may bring unexpected good fortune; when poorly placed, it signifies ruin or living away from one’s home in a foreign place.

Mao Tou governs military authority. When it falls in a debilitated position, its nature appears fierce and unruly. In a favorable position, Mao Tou symbolizes Heaven and Earth before they have been divided.

Mao Tou’s fierceness when debilitated is an inevitable consequence of the way Heaven’s principles operate.

Tian Ren in a debilitated position signifies weeping, calamity, punishment, or execution. In a favorable position, it can turn misfortune into good fortune.

When Tian Ren is debilitated, it can readily bring calamity; Yang Ren signifies bloodshed or injury.

Tian Yao governs charm and romantic affairs. In a debilitated position, it can bring licentiousness and humiliation. Its nature depends on the position it occupies.

Tian Ren in a debilitated position signifies weeping, calamity, punishment, or execution. In a favorable position, it can turn misfortune into good fortune.

When Tian Ren is debilitated, it can readily bring calamity; Yang Ren signifies bloodshed or injury.

Tian Yao governs charm and romantic affairs. In a debilitated position, it can bring licentiousness and humiliation. In a favorable position, it signifies romantic charm and wealth and status.

When Tian Yao is debilitated, licentiousness and humiliation may arise, as may discord within the household or the presence of many maidservants.

Tian Xing in a debilitated position brings punishment and misfortune to family members. In a favorable position, it does not cause calamity; when debilitated, however, family members may find it difficult to live in harmony.

Tian Ku in a debilitated position signifies punishment and bereavement, and also indicates a lack of good fortune. In a favorable position, even when something calls for tears, one will not weep.

When Tian Ku is debilitated, punishment and bereavement may occur, and one may also suffer personal deficiencies.

The effects of the eighteen stars vary according to their positions and from person to person, so they must be interpreted flexibly.

Do not cling to a single explanation. Make an overall judgment by considering the stars together with the positions of the Life and Body Palaces.

When interpreting the major and minor fortune periods, the annual cycle must also be taken into account.

Method for Interpreting Fortune Periods

Begin at the position opposite the Minor Limit and place one star in each palace. Yang men (men born in a Yang year) and Yin women (women born in a Yin year) proceed in forward order; Yin men (men born in a Yin year) and Yang women (women born in a Yang year) proceed in reverse order. Calculate the Minor Limit starting from the natal Life Palace. Make an overall judgment by considering the positions of the Life and Body Palaces.

When interpreting the major and minor fortune periods, the annual cycle must also be taken into account.

Method for Interpreting Fortune Periods

Begin at the position opposite the Minor Limit and place one star in each palace. Yang men and Yin women proceed in forward order; Yin men and Yang women proceed in reverse order. Calculate the Minor Limit starting from the natal Life Palace.

Arrange Ziwei, Luan, Wen, Gui, Xu, Yin, Shou, Fu, Lu, Ku, Guan, and the other stars, along with the large and small Yue Crying Stars. Then, beginning one palace before the Grand Duke of the current year, arrange Ziwei, Xu, and the other stars in reverse order. The stars Si, Zhang, Yi, Yin, Shen, Mao, Si, Ren, and Hai are all placed in reverse order from the Horse palace; the stars Xing, You, Yao, and Chou are also placed in reverse order. Stars that combine with the Grand Duke are placed in forward order. The Small Crying Star is located one palace before the Monkey palace and is called Fufu; the palace one place behind it is called Sannri. The body palace and life palace both involve the terms “Two Hidden Palaces” and “Three Lives.” The “Two Hidden Palaces” are in the Goat palace. For each month, take the Rooster for the first month, the Snake for the second, the Horse for the third, the Goat for the fourth, the Tiger for the fifth, the Rabbit for the sixth, the Dragon for the seventh, the Block for the eighth, the Dog for the ninth, the Goat for the tenth, the Monkey for the eleventh, and the Rat for the twelfth. Good and bad fortune, calamities and blessings must be carefully inferred.

When an auspicious star is in the “Sannri” palace at a person’s birth, it indicates that, when traveling to conduct business, they will meet a noble person who will recommend them, and they will then gain wealth. It is best for an auspicious star to fall in the Migration palace, which governs outings, long journeys, and encounters beyond one’s home.

In general, at birth a person receives the Qi of Heaven and Earth and the essence of Yin-Yang, thereby forming their body and destiny. Above, these are linked to the Five Planets; below, to the Five Phases. If the birth hour is favorable, the person’s body and destiny will be noble, and their prospects will be bright. If the hour is unfavorable, their fate will be lowly, and they will be prone to sinking into hardship and drifting from place to place. In broad terms, a person’s life depends on whether the stars occupy suitable positions and whether their movements accord with one another. If the stars are also strong and free of affliction, and auspicious stars occupy powerful palaces, the person is considered deeply blessed. All of this is determined in advance by the stars.

When judging a person’s destiny, first determine the Body Palace. The Body Palace is governed by the “spirit of Supreme Unity” (Taiyi), here referring to the spirit associated with the Body Palace. If auspicious stars and prosperity stars appear together, occupying strong and well-placed positions, the chart’s overall configuration is favorable and may be read as a destiny of refined distinction. Next, examine the Life Palace and the birth hour to assess the strength of the stars. If the Life Palace and birth hour are poorly aligned, even powerful stars will bring much less good fortune. Only when the stars are well placed and the birth hour is favorable can signs of flourishing, blessings, and good prospects in property and official rank emerge. The fortunes of all six palaces must also be weighed together to judge survival, status, and good or ill fortune; only then will the reading prove accurate.

Stars that fall in palaces where they are at their temple or peak generally have greater power to act. Their positions in Yin and Yang palaces must also be taken into account. The text says: “Yang stars favor good deeds; Yin stars govern punishment and killing.”

When examining the star palaces and the Life Palace, the arrangement of Yin and Yang stars must also be judged according to the birth hour. If Yang stars are numerous and Yin stars few, and the person is born during the first four quarters of the hour—a division of time used in antiquity—the text considers them to have deep blessings and long life, blessed parents, a flourishing family, a virtuous wife, and outstanding children. If the Body Palace and Life Palace are also placed where the stars are at their temple or peak, this is an upper-grade destiny. For a man, being born under Yang stars is considered a sign of distinction; if he is born in the first four quarters, however, the text says he will be forceful but short on blessings. For a woman, being born under Yin stars is considered auspicious. If she is born between the fourth and eighth quarters, the text considers her suited to the feminine way, supported by her mother’s family, harmonious with her brothers’ wives, respectful toward her husband and treated with respect by him, and likely to have accomplished children.

Therefore, when reading a destiny, the birth hour must be established precisely. It is then used to judge good and ill fortune, family relationships, and possible afflictions, as well as to distinguish wealth and status from virtue and folly. Yang stars govern literary talent: a person with these stars in their temple or peak and in one of the six Yang palaces—the six Yang-associated palaces—is considered to possess literary grace and refined bearing. Yin stars govern martial courage: a person with these stars in strong positions and in one of the six Yin palaces—the six Yin-associated palaces—is considered courageous and decisive.

When the various stars occupy Yang palaces, Yang stars are in Yang positions; when they occupy Yin palaces, Yin stars are in Yin positions. Each follows its own kind, and this is called “being in its proper place.” When Yin and Yang positions are reversed or mixed, this is called “not being in the proper place.” For a person whose Qi is turbid, the six double hours from Mao to Shen in a single day belong to Yang and daytime; the six from You to Yin belong to Yin and nighttime.

If a person’s Life Palace falls in a Yin palace, birth during the day is considered unfavorable; if it falls in a Yang palace, birth at night is considered unfavorable. Palaces and double hours each have rules for matching Yin and Yang. The scripture also says that births at the boundary between day and night, when the Yin-Yang qualities of the double hours differ, can diminish good fortune and lifespan. If Yin and Yang are mixed and the timing is irregular, their clashes and combinations form inauspicious signs. If the stars are also not in a temple or flourishing position—a state in which their power is strong and their placement suitable—the person is considered to have thin fortune and a short life. One must also examine whether the periods of a person’s destiny cycle encounter beneficent or malefic stars, and when these enter the Body Palace or Life Palace, in order to judge specific fortunes and misfortunes. The scripture holds that such predictions will all come to pass.

Rhapsody on the Three Configurations of Flesh and Bone

The ancients called profound and mysterious principles “Purple Tenuity” (Ziwei), believing that they contained distinctive subtleties. They therefore devised the wondrous method of the Three Configurations to investigate the sources of the stars’ auspicious and inauspicious influences. To grasp its deeper principles, one must establish the order of rank and status beyond the palaces and carefully examine life and death. When the Supreme Ultimate first divided, the Three Powers—Heaven, Earth, and Humanity—were already present. How could those who are poor and die young understand the foundations of these matters? And how could those who are wealthy, honored, and long-lived know all their principles? Destiny waxes and wanes; people’s innate dispositions may be pure or mixed; calamities and good fortune arrive in turn. Looking back to what the ancient texts say, good fortune and emolument shine together, and both are related to the position of Purple Tenuity. The entries for the various stars, along with the methods for arranging the double hours and time intervals, are listed below.

The following gives star names and their Yin-Yang classifications by double hour. The original arrangement is quite abbreviated:

• Mao hour: Yang. Listed are the characters Zi, Wood, Wen, Fortune, Earth, Emolument, Wood, Seal, Earth, Longevity, Earth, Staff, Wood, Storehouse, Earth, Yao, Water, Noble, Earth, Red, Metal, Strange, Earth, Hair, Water, Void, Water, Noble, Earth, Punishment, Fire, Blade, Metal, Weeping, and Metal.
• Chen hour: Yang. Listed are Wen, Fortune, Auspiciousness, Seal, Longevity, Staff, Storehouse; Yao, Zi, Red, Strange, Hair, Void, Piercing; Punishment, Blade, Weeping, Noble.
• Si hour: Yang. Listed are Wen, Fortune, Emolument, Seal, Longevity, Staff, Storehouse; Yao, Zi, Strange, Hair, Void, Piercing, Punishment; Blade, Weeping, Noble, Red.
• The text later again gives “Yang” and the characters Wen, Fortune, Auspiciousness, Seal, Longevity, Staff, and Storehouse, but does not provide their complete correspondences.

The Si hour belongs to Yang. The stars Wenchang, Tianfu, Tianlu, Tianyin, Tianshou, Tianzhang, and Tianku, together with Tianyao, Tianzi, Yimao, Tianxu, Tianguan, Tianxing, Tianren, Tianku, and Tiangui, are arranged in the order given in the text.

The Wu hour belongs to Yang; the Wei hour belongs to Yang; the Shen hour belongs to Yang; the You hour belongs to Yin; the Xu hour belongs to Yin; the Hai hour belongs to Yin; the Zi hour belongs to Yin; the Chou hour belongs to Yin; and the Yin hour belongs to Yin. The order of the stars listed after each hour likewise follows the original text.

At the end, the text repeats the star arrangements for the Chou and Yin hours and includes the phrase “○ fen pin lei gui pin zhan.” Some words may be proper names or scribal errors; the original provides no explanation.

Wenchang signifies nobility; Tianxu signifies poverty; Tianyao signifies low status; Tianfu signifies wealth; Tianren signifies punishment; Tianlu signifies official salary; Tiangui also signifies official salary; Tianku signifies punishment; Maotou signifies loss; Tianzhang signifies injury to one’s father; Tianshou signifies longevity; and Tianxing signifies punishment. This section explains the auspicious or inauspicious meanings symbolized by each star.

For a noble fate of the highest order, examine where the Body Palace and Life Palace fall on the third day after birth. If the Auxiliary Star falls in the fourth palace and all positions are auspicious, this indicates a good fate. When the Star of Longevity joins with the stars in the opposite palace, it foretells long-lived parents and that the native may hold a position among the ministers. The presence of the Phoenix Star in the Body and Life Palaces is also auspicious. When the Imperial Talisman Star joins opposite the Star of Longevity, it foretells a long-lived mother and that the native may serve among the ministers or as a senior court adviser.

When the Luan, Wei, Seal, and Longevity stars shine upon the Life Palace, if the date and hour of birth correspond with the stars and auspicious stars enter their temples—that is, positions where their power is strong—the fate may be judged one of the highest rank and nobility. The auspicious stars’ conditions count for three parts, while their being in temples and at peak strength counts for one part. Each of the twelve double-hours is further divided into one hundred ke. Only by carefully examining the stars’ positions and degrees of movement can one infer good or ill fortune and arrive at judgments that prove true.

If Yin stars rise and Yang stars descend, and an inauspicious star stands opposite the relevant star, this indicates harm to the father. If an auspicious star joins it, this indicates longevity.

The following lists the Yin-Yang attributes and the sequence of stars under each earthly branch:

• You (Yin): Zi, Wen, Fu, Lu, Yin, Shou, Zhang; Ku, Yao, Gui, Hong, Yi, Mao, Xu; Guan, Xing, Ren, Ku.
• Xu (Yin): Wen, Fu, Lu, Yin, Shou, Zhang, Ku; Yao, Zi, Hong, Yi, Mao, Xu, Guan; Xing, Ren, Ku, Gui.
• Hai (Yin): Fu, Lu, Yin, Shou, Zhang, Ku, Hong; Zi, Wen, Yi, Mao, Xu, Guan, Xing; Ren, Ku, Gui, Hong.
• Zi (Yin): Lu, Yin, Shou, Zhang, Ku, Yao, Zi; Wen, Fu, Mao, Xu, Guan, Xing, Ren; Ku, Gui, Hong, Yi.
• Chou (Yin): Yin, Shou, Zhang, Ku, Yao, Zi, Wen; Fu, Lu, Xu, Guan, Xing, Ren, Ku; Gui.
• Yin (Yin): Shou, Zhang, Ku, Yao, Zi, Wen, Fu; Lu, Yin, Guan, Xing, Ren, Ku, Gui; Hong, Yi, Mao, Xu.
• Mao (Yang): Zhang, Ku, Yao, Zi, Wen, Fu, Lu; Yin, Shou, Xing, Ren, Ku, Gui, Hong; Mao, Xu, Guan, Xing.
• Chen (Yang): Ku, Yao, Zi, Wen, Fu, Lu, Yin; Shou, Zhang, Ren, Ku, Gui, Hong, Yi; Mao, Xu, Guan, Xing.
• Mao (Yang): Zhang, Ku, Yao, Zi, Wen, Fu, Lu; Yin, Shou, Xing, Ren, Ku, Gui, Hong; Mao, Xu, Guan, Xing.
• Chen (Yang): Ku, Yao, Zi, Wen, Fu, Lu, Yin; Shou, Zhang, Ren, Ku, Gui, Hong, Yi; Mao, Xu, Guan, Xing.
• Si (Yang): The source gives only the earthly branch and its Yin-Yang attribute.

The stellar influences known as Yao, Zi, Wen, Fu, Lu, Yin, Shou, Zhang, Ku, Ku, Gui, Hong, Yi, Mao, Xu, Guan, Xing, and Ren are arranged in different palaces, each in its own combination. The original text lists their order in the Wu, Wei, and Shen palaces and uses it to assess the rank of a destiny pattern.

A moderately ranked noble destiny: Auspicious stars occupy higher positions, while inauspicious stars occupy lower ones. The Body Palace and Life Palace contain auspicious stars; Wen Chang shines upon them; assistant and seal stars are distributed in the four directions; or a Fortune star offers support from a trine palace. If the principal stars occupy palaces where they are at their strongest, and the assistant and seal stars fall in favorable times and directions, a Fortune star in a strong position also shines upon and joins the Life Palace. Even if only one assistant star holds a prominent position, a single star at its peak and in a powerful position can be enough to form a moderately noble destiny. In addition, if the birth falls within the eight ke of the Three-Day Palace, within the domain of the Six Yin, the Luan star in the Body Palace does not oppose the Heavenly Staff, the mother shows signs of longevity, and the stars are at their peak, the destiny is also considered moderately noble within the middle rank, with a prosperous family background.

A noble destiny in the lower rank: The Tai Fu star alone occupies a favorable position in the Body Palace or Life Palace, while auspicious stars in the Three-Day Palace shine upon it from the trine and lend their support. This is a high-ranking noble destiny within the lower class of patterns. If the Fortune star is well placed and prominent but the auspicious stars are weakened, the destiny is considered noble in the lower rank. These judgments depend on how the Yin and Yang stars combine and whether the birth time is favorable.

An ordinary destiny outside the formal patterns: When auspicious and inauspicious stars both shine upon the Life Palace and the Tai Fu star is poorly placed, the person is generally judged to be wealthy. If the Tai Fu star is weakened but a windfall-wealth star shines directly upon it, the Xu star occupies a strong position without being disrupted by an opposing star, and the Hong Luan star shines upon it from the opposite palace, the person is judged to be extremely wealthy. Terms such as “strong position,” “weakened,” “trine,” and “opposition” describe the stars’ palace positions and the relationships among them in Zi Wei Dou Shu.

The Fate of the Poor and Lowly: When the Fortune Star falls in a position where its power is weakened, and Tianyao (a star traditionally associated with desire, romance, and related influences) shines upon both the Body Palace and the Life Palace, while a void star casts its light from the opposite palace, this fate is said to be extremely poor and lowly. The parents may suffer harm early in life, and even if there are siblings, it may be as though there were none. Marriage is often marked by hardship and loss, and children may also suffer harm. Even when favorable periods and beneficent stars appear, wealth remains difficult to accumulate. This is because the foundations are shallow. Literary talent or official rank and salary cannot make the overall configuration complete.

The Fate of the Foolish: Wenchang (a star governing literary talent and learning) should not fall in a weakened palace. The saying, “The six are auspicious stars; in a strong palace they are inauspicious stars,” means that auspicious stars may instead become ominous when placed in a powerful palace. What, then, of their inauspicious qualities when they are not in their temple positions, where their power is strongest? In general, when judging whether a star forms part of the configuration, one need not look only at the Palace of Official Rank and Salary; for those devoted to study, one should examine Wenchang. For ordinary people, one should examine Tianlu, Tianzhang, and the Longevity Star to judge whether they have blessings and prosperity, and how abundant these are.

Determining the Combinations and Relationships Among the Palaces

When reading a person’s destiny, the simultaneous appearance of blessings, longevity, and Hongluan (the star governing marriage and joyful occasions) signifies intelligence. When Xu, Yi, and Maotou shine together, they signify dullness. If the Tianyin star falls in the Palace of Travel, one may gain power by developing a career away from home. If it falls in a position associated with Wenchang, it bodes ill for blessings and prosperity. In the Palace of Fields and Dwellings, it signifies granaries filled with grain; in the Palace of Wealth, it signifies chests full of gold and jade. When the star of nobility and prosperity falls in the Palace of Children, it signifies descendants who bring honor. When the star of storehouses and wealth falls in the body palace or the life palace, it signifies a secure future and eventual prominence.

When Yaoyi entangles the body, it portends a short life. Stars such as Ren and Ku bring trouble when they enter the life palace; Tianxu and Tianren both portend calamity, while Tianxing and Tianzhang are likewise unlikely to bring good fortune. In the Palace of Spouse and Concubines, these stars may indicate widowhood or childlessness; in the Palace of Official Rank and Emoluments, they may indicate hardship and frequent illness. Encountering these stars during a cycle of fortune brings danger, and when a major cycle passes through their locations, it may also invite disaster. Destiny thus has its periods of ease and hardship, yet a chart alone cannot always determine how long someone will live. Those whose fortunes run smoothly may hold high rank, while those who suffer hardship often live in solitude. Glory and longevity are signs of auspicious stars shining upon a person; sudden calamity and premature death result from inauspicious stars shining together.

A detailed examination of destiny depends on the stars, and grasping its essential points depends on the cycles of fortune. One must reflect attentively and calculate with care to uncover the deeper meaning of this book. Only by reading widely across the past and present can one recognize its worth. Life and death, poverty and wealth, are not entirely matters of chance; rank and lowliness, flourishing and decline, each have their causes. There are different degrees of precision and depth in calculating destiny. Only by rereading the classics can one gradually understand them. This subtle art cannot be mastered in a single day. The teachings on the Four Rulers and the Three Primordials are exceptionally precious, and the discussions of the Five Planets and Six Luminaries are rare and hard to match. Examine the principles of the Eighteen Stars closely and grasp the essentials of the Twelve Palaces, and you will understand how poverty, low status, wealth, and high rank are judged. Every blessing star, too, reveals its influence somewhere among the celestial bodies.

People receive the Qi of Heaven and Earth, forming the three powers: Heaven, Earth, and Humanity. Only when all three are complete can someone be called a “fully formed person.” When a major or annual fortune cycle encounters favorable conditions, wealth can flourish and endure. If any of the three powers is lacking, the person is considered “incomplete”; when their fortune cycles meet unfavorable conditions, wealth declines and becomes difficult to sustain.

If stars such as Emptiness, Weeping, Punishment, or Blade do not cast their influence upon the three powers, then the three are considered complete. If these stars do cast their influence and damage them, they are considered incomplete. Here, “cast their influence” refers to stars forming relationships of conjunction or aspect with one another. When a major or annual fortune cycle enters a Yang palace and encounters a Yang star, or enters a Yin palace and encounters a Yin star, this indicates alignment with the seasons of Heaven and receipt of balanced Qi. In years that call for caution, encountering the Weeping Star as well can cause the associated signs to appear quickly.

If, at a person’s birth, a purple-red auspicious star is located in the Body, Destiny, or Official Salary palace, the early fortune cycles generally indicate honor and rank, along with growth in salary and wealth. When stars such as Wenchang form an aspect, or occupy a palace where they are strong and flourishing, auspicious events and joyful occasions are also common. When the Void Star enters a fortune cycle, it indicates loss and dispersal of wealth. The places it influences are usually inauspicious, and may bring unexpected or troublesome events.

When the Heavenly Seal enters a fortune cycle, if it also occupies a powerful palace and is in its temple position, it indicates joyful events such as gaining authority or acquiring substantial wealth. Even when it does not meet the required configuration, it still indicates auspicious events. When a fortune cycle encounters the Red Luan, a man’s chart indicates marriage to a beautiful woman, while a woman’s chart indicates marriage to a handsome and distinguished man.

When Void stars shine upon a major cycle or the Life Palace, they foretell frightening disturbances. The Yao and Blade stars portend floods; the Mao and Yi stars, fires. Stars such as Border, Exile, and Convict portend calamities like banishment or forced migration; they may also indicate a change of surname or an unusual misfortune. If “Storehouse and String” appears in a major cycle or the Life Palace, it portends unexpected wealth: someone in poverty may suddenly become rich.

The fortunes and misfortunes associated with other inauspicious stars must be judged by carefully examining the palaces they occupy and the stellar relationships indicated by the Wen Chang star. Some people die at the very beginning of a major cycle, while others die as it draws to a close; each case must be assessed in detail according to the stars associated with life and death. If the Tian Ku star shines directly upon the Body Palace or Life Palace, it is called the “Yellow Springs Star.” If it shines directly upon a major cycle and faces the opposite palace, this is called a “Surging Waves Cycle,” which portends death and may bring one bereavement after another, with mourning to follow. Yang palaces tend to indicate sorrow, while Yin palaces tend to indicate happy events. Even when a star occupies a palace of exaltation and strength and may therefore be called a Star of Fortune, one may still have to mourn the death of a friend or relative. Another interpretation holds that a “Surging Waves Cycle” occurs when the three stars Staff, String, and Cry appear together.

It is difficult to make a general judgment about gain and loss, hardship and success; fundamentally, all depend on the Body Palace and the Life Palace. Auspicious stars in these palaces usually indicate good fortune and happy events; inauspicious stars may bring danger.

When the Yao and Yi stars shine upon the Life Palace together, this is an ill omen likely to bring calamity. One’s family estate may be ruined, and one may be driven from home and become mired in drinking and sensual pleasures. A man may become licentious, while a woman may turn to prostitution.

Tian Ku is an inauspicious star and among the most ominous. If it enters a major cycle, one’s life may be in danger. Even if the family inheritance has already been squandered, the greater concern may be that one’s life will be short.

When the Void and Blade stars enter the Body Palace or Life Palace, seclusion in the mountains, far from worldly affairs, is said to bring peace. An ordinary person who encounters this configuration may wander from place to place and still repeatedly meet with calamity.

When an inauspicious star appears during illness, it is said to indicate an imbalance in the five viscera and a difficult recovery, raising fears that life may be short.

The Tuan says:

If the “Empty Blade” star falls in the Body Palace or the Destiny Palace—the palaces in a chart that represent a person and their fate—only someone who withdraws from worldly life and lives in seclusion in the mountains is suited to settle down.

When ordinary people encounter this configuration, they are said to be unable to escape calamity, even if they travel a thousand li.

If an inauspicious star enters the palace of illness, it is thought to throw the five viscera out of balance, and the condition should not be taken lightly. Even if the person lives a long life, they may suffer from difficulty walking, a hunched back, or other physical ailments, and their fortune may be poor.

The Tuan says:

The Four Cardinal Palaces in a destiny chart—the palaces that correspond to and are linked with the Destiny Palace—are of greatest importance. If auspicious stars shine upon them, this is considered a favorable sign.

If the “Weeping” and “Blade” stars come near the Destiny Palace, they are said to bring injuries among close relatives and calamities that may follow one another.

If these two stars fall in the Estate Palace, they are said to deplete the family inheritance; in the Spouse Palace, they are considered unfavorable to one’s partner. In the Official Career Palace, they generally bring no trouble; in the Destiny Palace, they may make a person behave perversely and encounter setbacks.

A person’s fortune and misfortune are always thought to be governed by fate, and should be carefully assessed from beginning to end.

The Tuan says:

The “Heavenly Weeping” star is considered the most inauspicious; encountering it may bring calamity. Even if the family inheritance has already been exhausted, one must still fear that life may be short.

The inauspicious star that governs weeping is especially prone to bring disaster, and the palace it enters may suffer all kinds of misfortune. If such an inauspicious star appears during a year cycle or period of fortune, it is thought that someone in the household may meet with disaster, plunging the whole family into grief.

When the Punishment star meets the Weeping star, the matter is considered grave. If they appear in the current year, they may bring a false alarm. Even when fortune and prosperity are strong, one must guard against calamities related to childbirth; otherwise, relatives may become separated, possessions may be lost, and the household may be thrown into turmoil.

The Tuan says:

The “Heavenly Blade” star is called the “Seven Harms.” If it clashes with a year cycle or period of fortune, it is said to bring injury or death. Without the aid of hidden virtue and merit to avert it, calamity may follow, and members of the household may die one after another.

The Eighteen Star Judgments of Subtle Insight

The Ziwei Star, also known as “Purple Qi” and as the “Sun, Jade Hall, and Minor Tenuity,” is the star of those who serve rulers and associate with the nobility. The Jin Annals says that it lies within the enclosure of the imperial stars and holds the most exalted rank; auspicious stars can moderate its power. When it shines on the Palace of Destiny, it signifies intelligence and benevolence, and presides over long life, wealth, and honor.

In the interpretation of a birth chart, when the Ziwei Star stands alone at the Xuan Shang Tianmen, this is called “Arching toward the Northern Dipper” and signifies high rank. When it stands alone in the Mao position, this is called the “Emerging from the Chen Gate configuration” and signifies prominence and great destiny. When the Ziwei Star shines on the Palace of the Body—the chart palace representing the self—and auspicious stars gather around it in attendance, this is called the “Pure Radiance configuration.” When stars occupy favorable positions such as temple, pleasure, or prosperity, they preside over official success. Ji and You are positions of temple; Shen and Hai are positions of pleasure; Zi is a position of prosperity. This is called the “Interlocking Palaces configuration.” If the Palace of Destiny or the Palace of the Body encounters these configurations, the person is inclined toward the Dao and has talent and learning. The “Emerging from the Chen Gate configuration” signifies prominence and a great destiny, while the “Pure Radiance configuration” signifies high status. When the Ziwei Star occupies a position of temple, pleasure, or prosperity, it presides over a smooth official career.

When the Ziwei Star is in the Palace of Destiny or the Palace of the Body, it signifies a stipend and suitability for upright, prestigious positions. The person can write and is intelligent. When Ziwei occupies the Palace of Official Career, it signifies a lifetime of benevolence and kindness, with good fortune and income. If it is not in a position of temple or prosperity, the person is prone to loneliness and may favor the life of a monk or Daoist, observing vegetarian practice and keeping the precepts. If it is also in the same palace as the Yang Blade, the person resembles one who lives in seclusion among the mountains, close to springs and rocks.

If it is in aspect with hidden stars, this signifies lustfulness, a stern disposition, and few family ties. For women, it signifies harm to the husband and loss involving children. If auspicious spirits also gather, however, the husband will rise to prominence and the children will succeed; the woman herself may also receive an honorific title because of her high status. If the Ziwei Star falls in a weakened position, fortune declines, but even in a crisis the person may still receive help and become a practitioner in one of the Nine Currents.

When the Ziwei Star occupies a position associated with official career, it signifies an illustrious title, a willingness to do good and accumulate virtue, and a tendency to follow customary propriety and uphold reason. When this star appears during a period of fortune, the person may have the opportunity to meet the ruler. Those with the Ziwei Star guarding their Palace of Destiny usually have a plain, old-fashioned appearance and a stout build; they may also be tall and thin, with a bent back and waist. Their complexion is often dull with a purplish red tinge, though it may also be yellowish white. Children are lean and clear-complexioned, with a somewhat sallow hue.

The Tuan says: “The person is courteous and skilled at welcoming guests, respects the worthy, and dislikes the unkind.”

In letters, the person understands the classics; in public affairs, they can govern. Thus they become an upright and honored minister at court.

One who can govern affairs through literary ability and assist in political matters through military strategy can serve as a court official by virtue of a refined and upright character.

Tuan Commentary (an interpretation of the hexagram statement or a fate configuration):

Those born in the Ox position are mild and humble in temperament, yet may seem lonely; marriage and family ties can feel as though they exist and do not exist at once. If they practice benevolence and righteousness and live with steady purpose, the road ahead will be smooth and open.

Those born in the Tiger position are called “Realized Ones,” people of cultivation and virtue, but often find it difficult to grow close to others. Their ambitions may once have reached as high as the office of prime minister, and throughout life they can remain close to the ruler.

Those born in the Rabbit position are called “Pivot and Harmony,” yet shifting fortunes can leave them prone to loneliness. Life is difficult at first and easier later; in old age, their circumstances will be abundant and favorable.

Those born in the Dragon position have a configuration called “Empty Sky.” After attaining fame and achievement, they will also enjoy a plentiful life. Marriage and family ties will not be a source of support, so they must strive through their own efforts to build a career.