The odd and even numbers distinguish public and private matters.

退間奇偶別公私。謂課得間一位作三傳，逆行而退，曰退間。三傳俱陽，計三課。戌申午曰負暄，蓋午為日中，而戌申向之，是負暄之象也。午辰寅曰顧祖，午為寅之子孫，自午退寅，如子回顧母，返其室廬，止宜舊守，進退不能。寅子戌曰投暗，自寅退戌，由明而入於暗，宜防暗損。

The Three Transmissions are taken by skipping one position and moving backward, which is called "retreating between." When all three transmissions are yang branches, they form three lessons. Wu, Shen, and Wu are called "facing the sun": Wu is the middle of the day, and Shen and Wu are facing away from it, like facing away from the sun to get warm. Wu, Chen, and Yin are called "looking back to the ancestor": Wu is the son of Yin wood, and moving from Wu back to Yin is like a son looking back to his mother and returning home, at this time it is only suitable to maintain the existing situation, neither advancing nor retreating is appropriate. Yin, Zi, and Xu are called "entering darkness": moving from Yin to Xu is like moving from a bright place into darkness, one should be cautious of damage in the dark.

三傳俱陰，計六課。亥酉未曰就隱，酉為太陰，未為玉女，利於隱遁潛形。由亥入未，是時當隱遁也；行人不來，捕盜難獲。酉未巳曰勵明，巳為陽明之地，從酉未入至，有由暗嚮明之角。未巳卯曰趨正，巳為六陽之極，卯為日出之時，由未入之，是趨於正道也。巳卯丑曰歸邪，由巳而入丑，避明就暗，有棄正歸邪之象。卯丑亥曰斷澗，亥為水，丑中有癸水，由卯入至，漸入深澗，君子退職，小人有凶事。丑亥酉曰極陰，三神皆夜方，以陰入陰，必有酒色淫佚之事；蓋亥主淫亂，酉主酒色也；訟者深，病者死。以上九課，如自夜傳晝，事尚明白；或自晝傳夜，則盡入於昏迷矣。仍以神將論其吉凶。

The three transmissions are all yin branches, making a total of six lessons. The combination of亥, 酉, and 未 is called 「就隐」: 酉 is the position of Tai Yin, and 未 is the position of Yu Nu, both favorable for hiding and concealing; moving from亥 to 未 is precisely the time for seclusion; if this is used to predict the arrival of a person, the person will not come; if used to predict the capture of a thief, the thief will be difficult to catch. The combination of 酉, 未, and 巳 is called 「励明」: 巳 is a place of yang clarity, moving from 酉 and 未 into 巳 indicates a transition from darkness to light. The combination of 未, 巳, and 卯 is called 「趋正」: 巳 is the peak of six yang, and 卯 is the time of sunrise, moving from 未 into 卯 indicates moving towards the right path. The combination of 巳, 卯, and 丑 is called 「归邪」: moving from 巳 to 丑, avoiding light and moving into darkness, indicating a turning away from the right path to the wrong one. The combination of 卯, 丑, and 亥 is called 「断涧」: 亥 belongs to water, and 丑 contains hidden癸 water, moving from 卯 into 丑 leads further into depth, like standing at the edge of a deep ravine; if a gentleman divines this, it indicates a loss of position; if a petty person divines this, it indicates misfortune. The combination of 丑, 亥, and 酉 is called 「极阴」: all three spirits are in the night direction, moving from yin to yin, inevitably leading to matters of wine, sex, and indulgence—亥 indicates disorder, 酉 indicates wine and sex; if used to predict a lawsuit, the case will become more complicated; if used to predict illness, it indicates death. The above nine lessons, if they move from the night direction to the day direction, the matter is still clear; if they move from the day direction to the night direction, the matter will fall entirely into confusion. It is still necessary to refer to the Heavenly General to determine fortune and misfortune.

陰間退格。如癸卯日，干上亥，三傳丑亥酉，初作日鬼，中傳日祿，又入鬼鄉，末傳又作敗氣，用相引而入於極陰之地，日就昏沉，全無興發氣也。

"The retreat of the Yin realm": For example, on a Guimao day, if the day stem is riding on亥, and the three transmissions are丑, 亥, and 酉. The first transmission, 丑 earth, is the official ghost of癸 water; the middle transmission, 亥, although it is the禄神 of癸 day, falls into the ghostly territory of丑; the final transmission, 酉, is the bathing and decline of water. The initiating transmission leads continuously backward into the most extreme Yin place, where human affairs gradually become murky and dim, showing no signs of vitality or development. When encountering this situation in divination, one should only adopt a strategy of concealment and humility, and should not expect any revival or progress.

木名曲直春占吉。謂三傳之神，合成木局，曰曲直。蓋木性本直，又復曲折也。木生於亥，旺於卯，墓於未。火日為生氣，水日為盜用氣，順合者兩課：一、亥卯未。一、未亥卯。逆合者三課：未卯亥，卯亥未，亥未卯。順者理勢自然，逆者事有曲折。春占取利於求財，諸事皆吉。緣木至春夏而枝葉茂盛也，仍以神將斷其吉凶。

The three spirits in the Three Transmissions form a Triple Harmony Formation of wood, which is called "Qu Zhi" — "Wood is flexible and straight" as stated in the "Book of Documents · Hongfan." Wood is naturally straight, but it can also bend. Wood is in its growth phase in the亥 (Hai) position, in its prosperity phase in the卯 (Mao) position, and enters its tomb in the未 (Wei) position. If the Day Stem is fire, this wood formation is the source of energy for the Day Stem; if the Day Stem is water, the wood formation is something that drains the energy of the Day Stem. Following the order of the Triple Harmony, the two combinations are亥 (Hai), 卯 (Mao), 未 (Wei) and 未 (Wei), 亥 (Hai), 卯 (Mao). Going against the order, the three combinations are未 (Wei), 卯 (Mao), 亥 (Hai); 卯 (Mao), 亥 (Hai), 未 (Wei); and 亥 (Hai), 未 (Wei), 卯 (Mao). When the Triple Harmony is in the correct order, the situation and circumstances are natural and smooth. When it is in the reverse order, the situation requires some twists and turns. If this formation is drawn in spring, it is most favorable for seeking wealth and all matters are auspicious, because wood is flourishing in spring and summer. However, one still needs to refer to the Heavenly General to determine fortune and misfortune.

木局順合例。如乙亥日，三傳未亥卯，初為日財，中為長生，末為日祿，占主作事之初，雖有昏昧，日後終得如意，如廢官占之，必得起復。

"The Wood Bureau Smooth Combination Example": For instance, if the divination is done on a Yihai day and the three transmissions are Wei, Hai, and Mao. The first transmission, Wei earth, is the wealth爻 of Yi wood. The middle transmission, Hai, is the place of growth for wood. The final transmission, Mao, is the禄神 of Yi wood. This indicates that at the beginning of doing things, there may be some confusion and lack of clarity, but eventually everything will go smoothly according to one's wishes. If a dismissed official comes across this divination, he is certainly destined to be reinstated to his former position—growth is in the middle and the禄神 concludes, which is a sign of turning from decline to revival.

木局逆合例。如辛未日三傳卯亥未，似宜求財，但木空則折，財何能有？初傳遁丁作暗鬼，又助其干之上之午火克干，必因妻財而致禍，惟以財求官為宜。

"The Example of Wood Bureau Reversal Combination": For instance, on a Xinwei day, if the three transmissions are卯, 亥, and 未, the Wood Bureau is considered the wealth爻 for the辛 metal. It seems favorable for seeking wealth. However, Wood falling into vacancy will break, so where does the wealth come from? The first transmission,卯, has hidden Ding fire, which is the official ghost of辛 metal. This Ding fire is hidden within the transmission and also supports the午 fire riding on the day stem to overcome the辛 metal. This certainly indicates trouble arising from wife-related wealth. This divination lesson is only suitable if one uses wealth to seek official position—using wealth to generate official status, transforming ghosts into blessings—this would be appropriate.

炎上還須值夏時。謂三傳之神合成火局，曰炎上。蓋炎上乃火之性也。火生於寅，旺於午，墓於戌，土日為生氣，木日為盜氣。順合者一課：寅午戌。逆合者三課：戌午寅、午寅戌、寅戌午。順合者凡事光明，逆合者凡事猛烈，主事成急速，虛多實少。蓋火性焰焰，不久成灰也。順則明，逆則暗，仍以神將論其吉凶。

The three spirits in the three transmissions form a Triple Harmony Formation of fire, known as "Yan Shang" — the Book of Documents, Hong Fan says "Fire is called Yan Shang," meaning that fire naturally rises upward and burns. Fire is in its growth phase in寅, in its prosperity phase in午, and enters its tomb in戌. If the day stem is of earth, this fire formation is the nurturing force for me; if the day stem is of wood, the fire formation is something that steals and drains my energy. Following the order of the harmony:寅, 午, 戌. In reverse order:戌, 午, 寅; 午, 寅, 戌; 寅, 戌, 午. When the harmony is in the correct order, things are clear and open; when it is in reverse, things come on strongly and suddenly. In general, matters are accomplished quickly and urgently, but they are mostly empty and lack substance — like a fierce fire that burns brightly but soon turns to ashes. When it is in the correct order, it is bright; when it is in reverse, it is dark. It is still necessary to refer to the Heavenly General to determine fortune or misfortune. What is important is that this formation must be observed during the summer season to be timely and in harmony with the energy.

火局順合例。如辛酉日三傳寅午戌作鬼，且與支上丑六害，主有人謀害，幸晝夜天將皆貴勾常土神，脫氣之氣，生其干神，逢凶化吉，尚可無忌。

The example of a harmonious fire trine in a favorable direction: For instance, on a Xinyou day, if the three transmissions are寅, 午, and 戌, forming a fire trine, fire overcomes metal, which corresponds to the official ghost of the day stem Xinyou. This fire trine also forms a six harm with the earth branch丑 on the day, as 午 and 丑 are harmful to each other, indicating someone is scheming against the person. Fortunately, both the day and night heavenly generals are gods of the earth category, such as Nobleman, Gou Chen, and Tai Chang. Since fire generates earth and earth generates metal, the fierce energy of fire is dispersed, turning into a benefit for the day stem Xinyou metal. Thus, misfortune turns into good fortune, and there is no harm.

火局逆合例。如丙寅日三傳戌午寅，干上丑與午六害，又戌加寅發用，墓臨生地，返明為暗。蓋火以明為體，遇墓則暗矣，中傳午又坐空，火已成灰，凡占不吉。

The example of "Fire Group Reversed Combination": For instance, on a Bingyin day, the three transmissions are Xu, Wu, and Yin. The day stem is occupied by Chou, which forms a direct conflict with Wu; the first transmission is Xu placed on Yin as the initiating transmission, with the storage god suppressing the growth position, turning brightness into darkness—fire is by nature bright, but once it meets the storage position, it becomes dark. The middle transmission Wu is also in the empty position of the ten years, and this fire has already turned into ashes. Therefore, all such divinations are unfavorable.

金主肅殺多變革。謂三傳之神合作金局，曰從革。以金須煅煉而成，有改革之意也。金生於巳，旺於酉，墓於丑，水日為生氣，土日為盜氣，順合一課：酉丑巳；逆合兩課：酉巳丑、巳丑酉。順則有鼎新之象，逆則有肅殺之威。有氣又得吉神，則革而進，無氣又值凶神，則革而退。仍以神將論其吉凶。此課占婚大忌，以其為煞神故也。

The three spirits in the Three Transmissions form a Triple Harmony Formation of metal, known as "From Reform" — the "Book of Documents · Hongfan" says "Metal is called From Reform," meaning that metal must be tempered to become an object, hence the meaning of reform. Metal's Growth is in Si, its Prosperity is in You, and it is buried in Chou. If the Day Stem is water, this metal formation is the nurturing force for me; if the Day Stem is earth, the metal formation is something that steals and drains my energy. Following the order of the Triple Harmony: You, Chou, Si. In reverse order: You, Si, Chou; Si, Chou, You. The harmonious combination in the forward direction signifies renewal and reform, while the reverse combination indicates severity and authority. If the metal formation has strength and meets auspicious spirits, it signifies reforming forward; if it lacks strength and meets inauspicious spirits, it signifies reforming backward. It is still necessary to refer to the Heavenly General to determine fortune or misfortune. This lesson is particularly inauspicious for marriage, as the metal formation is originally a malevolent spirit, indicating punishment and severance.

金局順合例。如癸酉日三傳酉丑巳，合局生干，干上巳又為財神，如日占，三傳天將皆土神，助傳之生，必有人明暗相助而成事。

"The Example of a Smooth Metal Combination": For instance, on a Guiyou day, if the three transmissions are You, Chou, and Si, they form a metal combination. Metal generates water, which in turn supports the day stem Gui water. Additionally, the fire trigram Si is on top of the day stem, and Si is the wealth god for Gui water. If the divination is done during the day, the heavenly generals in the three transmissions are all of the earth type. Earth generates metal, which in turn generates water, thus enhancing the life qi layer by layer from the three transmissions. It is certain that someone, either openly or secretly, will assist in making the matter succeed.

金局逆合例。如乙丑日，三傳巳丑酉，合局作鬼，雖為己身之憂，不知反助其干上子水，育其日干，且三六相呼，事必成合，如晝占子作貴人更吉。

The example of "Metal Circle Reverse Harmony": For instance, on a Yichou day, if the three transmissions are巳, 丑, and 酉, forming a metal circle, metal overcomes wood, which is the official ghost of the Yi day, appearing as one's own misfortune. But in reality, this metal circle actually supports the water on the day stem, and the water nourishes the wood of the day stem—thus the ghost turns into a seal, changing from overcoming to supporting. With the mutual support of triple harmony and liuhe, the matter will certainly succeed. If the divination is done in the daytime and the Zi position is occupied by a nobleman, it will be even more auspicious.

水性悠遊潤下司。謂三傳之神合作水局，曰潤下，蓋就下者，水之性也。水生於申，旺於子，墓於辰，木日為後氣，金日為盜氣。順合三課：申子辰、子辰申、辰申子。逆合二課：子申辰、申辰子。主悠遊長久，事不迫促，然終不能靜也。三傳宜順，逆非水性也。順則凡事舒暢，逆則凡事遲緩，占文書不利，為其克雀也。仍以神將斷其吉凶。

The three spirits in the three transmissions form a water Triple Harmony Formation, which is called "Runxia" — the Book of Documents, Hongfan says "water is called Runxia," and flowing downward is the natural characteristic of water. Water is born in Shen, reaches its prosperity in Zi, and is buried in Chen. If the day stem is wood, this water formation is the life qi that nourishes me (the original text mistakenly says "later qi"); if the day stem is metal, the water formation is something that steals and drains my qi. Following the order of the Triple Harmony: Shen, Zi, Chen; Zi, Chen, Shen; Chen, Shen, Zi. In reverse order: Zi, Shen, Chen; Shen, Chen, Zi. This indicates that matters proceed leisurely and without haste, yet ultimately remain unsettled — water always flows. The three transmissions should proceed in the correct order; reversing them is against the nature of water. When proceeding in the correct order, all matters are smooth; when reversed, all matters are delayed. This formation is unfavorable for documents, because water overcomes fire, and thus the Vermilion Bird, which represents documents, is overcome. Still, one should refer to the Heavenly General to determine fortune and misfortune.

水局順合例。如甲申日三傳辰申子，合局生干，則三傳遞生，主有隔三隔四，在內幫扶之事。雖干上午為合中犯煞，幸值旬空，可以無忌。

"The Example of a Water Bureau in Harmonious Sequence": For instance, on a Jiashen day, if the three transmissions are Chen, Shen, and Zi, forming a water bureau, water generates wood, and the day stem Jia Wood is reborn by the water. The three transmissions also support each other in a continuous sequence of generation. This indicates that there are people with three or four layers of relationship involved who are providing support. Although the day stem is occupied by Wu Fire, it combines with the spirits in the bureau, resulting in an implicit conflict of evil energy. Fortunately, Wu falls in the empty term of the ten days, so the evil energy does not take effect, and there is no need to be concerned.

水局逆合例。丙子日，三傳申辰子，初中空亡，獨存末傳之鬼，殊為可怖。幸干上有丑土，可敵末傳之水，且又為三六相呼，亦可轉禍而為福也。

"The Example of Reverse Harmony in the Water Bureau": For instance, on a Bingzi day, if the three transmissions are Shen, Chen, and Zi, the first transmission Shen and the middle transmission Chen both fall into Kongwang, leaving only the final transmission Zi water as real. However, Zi water is precisely the official ghost of Bing fire, and a solitary official ghost is very ominous. Fortunately, the day stem is accompanied by Chou earth, which can control water and counteract that single point of water in the final transmission; additionally, the triple harmony and liuhe (六合) interact with each other (Zi and Chou combine), which can turn misfortune into good fortune.

生胎順行病胎逆。凡孟神相加作三傳，曰元胎。蓋寅申巳亥，乃五行受生之地，木生於亥，火干受氣；水生於申，木干受氣；火土生於寅，金干受氣；金生於巳，水干受氣；此元中有胎，故曰元胎。順行者四課：寅巳申、巳申亥、申亥寅、亥寅巳。順行而進，下生上神，身臨長生之鄉，故又曰生胎，主日盛月新，凡事皆有生意，與胎產、婚姻、官祿、財利事俱吉，病訟淹延，行人不來，以戀生故也。

All four initial phases of the divine spirits combine with each other to form the three transmissions, which is called "Yuan Tai." The years of Yin, Shen, Si, and Hai are the places where the Five Phases are born: wood is born in Hai, fire receives its qi in Hai; water is born in Shen, wood receives its qi in Shen; fire and earth are born in Yin, metal receives its qi in Yin; metal is born in Si, water receives its qi in Si. The original essence already contains the qi of birth, so it is called Yuan Tai. The four lessons proceed in order: Yin, Si, Shen; Si, Shen, Hai; Shen, Hai, Yin; Hai, Yin, Si. Proceeding in order, the spirits on the lower Earth Plate generate the spirits on the upper Heaven Plate. Each spirit is located in its place of birth, so it is also called "Sheng Tai." The main day is flourishing, the month is renewed, and all matters carry vitality. Divination regarding pregnancy, marriage, official positions, and wealth is favorable. Divination regarding illness and legal disputes will not conclude quickly, and divination regarding travelers indicates that people are unwilling to come, because they are attached to their place of birth and do not wish to move.

凡事主遲，逆行者四課：亥申巳、申巳寅、巳寅亥、寅亥申，逆行而退上生下神，臨五行之病鄉，故又曰病胎，懷胎有憂，凡事主遠，占病死，主有別處投胎之象。仍以神將論其吉凶。

Therefore, the lesson of the original embryo is that all matters are slow. The four lessons that move in reverse are:亥, 申, 巳; 申, 巳, 寅; 巳, 寅, 亥; 寅, 亥, 申. When moving in reverse and retreating, it is because the heavenly plate's spirit generates the earthly plate's spirit, and the self is located in the sickly place of the five phases, so it is also called "sick embryo." If this is used to divinate pregnancy, there will be worries, and all matters are distant and difficult to reach; if used to divinate illness, it indicates death, and also implies transferring to another body. It is still necessary to refer to the heavenly general to determine fortune or misfortune.

順元胎格。如甲申日三傳申亥寅，申為日鬼，幸坐巳上，鬼自受制，不能害人，中傳長生，末傳德祿，三傳遞生交車、長生、六合，諸占俱吉。

The "Shun Yuan Tai Ge" divination pattern: For example, on a day of Jiashen (甲申), if the three transmissions are Shen, Hai, and Yin, the first transmission Shen metal is the official ghost of Jia wood. Fortunately, it is seated on Si fire, which controls metal. Therefore, the ghost is restrained and cannot harm. The middle transmission Hai is the long life of wood. The final transmission Yin is both the禄 (favorable position) and the day virtue of Jia. The three transmissions support each other in sequence, forming a harmonious combination of mutual generation, intersecting with theLiu He (Liu He), long life, and mutual assistance. Therefore, all matters divined are auspicious.

逆元胎格。如丙寅日亥申巳，初作日鬼，幸蒿矢空亡發用，鬼力至微，中傳申財坐空，又入鬼鄉，求財亦不可得，幸末傳作日之德祿，干支各受上神之生，如靜守亦盡有其所益也。

"The Inverse Origin and Fetus Pattern": For example, on a Bingyin day, if the three transmissions are Hai, Shen, and Si. The first transmission Hai water is the official ghost of Bing fire, but fortunately this is a remote and indirectrestrain (restraining), and the initiating transmission god falls into Kongwang, making the ghost's power extremely weak. The middle transmission Shen metal is originally the wealth of Bing, but it sits in Kongwang and falls into the Hai ghost territory, so the wealth cannot be obtained. Fortunately, the final transmission Si is both the daily virtue and the daily禄 (favorable position) of Bing, and the day stem and day branch each receive the birth from their respective superior gods. In this case, if one remains calm and patient, the benefits will still be sufficient.

四仲相加關隔推。謂四仲相加作三傳，曰關格。蓋子午為關，卯酉為格。且四課各刑互沖，前無孟之可隱，後無季之可逃，主事有關格，欲避不能，順行者四課：子卯午、卯午酉、午酉子、酉子卯。逆行者二課：子酉午、午卯子。順行而進，皆臨於敗地，以木敗於子，火敗於卯，金敗於午，水敗於酉也。逆行而退，皆臨於死地，以金死於子，水死於卯，木死於午，火死於酉也。此課大端不吉，如遇旺相吉神，亦不拘此例。

The four lessons are combined with the four cardinal deities to form the three transmissions, which is called "guan ge." Zi and Wu are opposite and are called "guan," while Mao and You are opposite and are called "ge." Between the four lessons, there is mutual punishment and mutual conflict. There is no four Meng to hide from in front, nor any four Ji to escape to behind, so the matter is obstructed, and there is no way to avoid it. The forward progression of the four lessons is: Zi, Mao, Wu; Mao, Wu, You; Wu, You, Zi; You, Zi, Mao. The reverse progression of the two lessons is: Zi, You, Wu; Wu, Mao, Zi. The forward progression all fall in the bathing and decline places—wood declines at Zi, fire declines at Mao, metal declines at Wu, and water declines at You. The reverse progression all fall in the death places—metal dies at Zi, water dies at Mao, wood dies at Wu, and fire dies at You. This lesson is generally inauspicious; however, if it meets with prosperous and strong energy and auspicious deities, then this general rule does not need to be strictly followed.

順關隔格。如丁卯日三傳酉子卯，財作閉口發用，求財既不可得，中傳日鬼，末傳敗氣，本屬不吉；幸交車六合，支上又見日祿，占交關食祿事，亦盡有所得也。

"The 'Smooth Gate Blocked Pattern'": For example, on a Dingmao day, the three transmissions are You, Zi, and Mao. The first transmission You metal is the wealth of Ding fire, but it becomes the 'closed mouth' pattern and serves as the initiating transmission, indicating that wealth cannot be obtained. The middle transmission Zi water is the official ghost of Ding fire. The final transmission Mao is the bath of fire, indicating a decline. This is originally an unfavorable pattern. Fortunately, the divination includes the combination of the 'trade' and 'six harmonies', and the day branch also shows the禄神 (lucky god) of Ding day. In divination regarding trade or matters of receivingofficial stipend (grants), there is still some benefit to be gained.

逆關隔可知。如丁卯日三傳子酉午，初作日鬼，中傳財爻，又作閉口，僅存末傳之祿，又交車六害，必有交相刑害之患難，凡占不吉。

The principle of "reverse closure and obstruction" can be understood as explained in the previous section. For example, on a Dingmao day, if the three transmissions are Zi, You, and Wu. The first transmission, Zi water, is the official ghost of Ding fire. The middle transmission, You metal, although it is a wealth element, becomes closed and cannot be released. Only the final transmission, Wu fire, remains as a禄神. However, the divination shows a mutual punishment and harm due to the intersection of the six harms. Therefore, there must be mutual conflicts and troubles. Hence, any divination in such a case is not favorable.

季神會聚號稼穡。謂季神相加作三傳，曰稼穡。以土有生物之義也，順行三課：辰未戌、未戌丑、戌丑辰。逆行二課：丑戌未、戌未辰。蓋季乃墓神，凡事沉滯，託人費力，獨辰戌對沖則緊，蓋辰為更新，戌為故舊也。丑未相沖，主兄弟不和，蓋丑未乃貴人本家也。春占得木為疏通，冬占水旺，亦不畏其為鬼。仍以神將論其吉凶。

The four seasonal gods, Chen, Xu, Chou, and Wei, when combined with each other, form the Three Transmissions, called "Jia Se," which refers to the meaning in the "Book of Documents · Hong Fan" that "earth produces crops and grains." Since earth has the function of nurturing all things. The three lessons in the forward direction are: Chen, Wei, Xu; Wei, Xu, Chou; Xu, Chou, Chen. The two lessons in the reverse direction are: Chou, Xu, Wei; Xu, Wei, Chen. The four seasons are originally the four burial gods, so in matters that are stagnant and unsmooth, relying on others to handle affairs is especially difficult. Only when Chen and Xu oppose each other is it particularly important—Chen represents renewal, and Xu represents old matters. Their opposition signifies removing the old to bring in the new. When Chou and Wei oppose each other, it indicates discord among brothers, because Chou and Wei are the native positions of the Nobleman. When two Noblemen oppose each other, disputes arise among family members first. If this situation occurs in spring, the wood can unblock the earth's energy; if it occurs in winter, the water is strong and does not fear the earth coming to trouble. It is still necessary to refer to the Heavenly General to determine fortune or misfortune.

順稼穡格。如壬辰日，三傳戌丑辰皆鬼，誠為凶課。幸蒿矢坐空發用，鬼力至輕，且有干上寅木為救，不能為禍，夜占初乘白虎，尚屬可畏。日占乘龍，可以無忌矣。

The "Smooth Farming and Harvest Pattern" refers to a situation where on a Renchen day, the three transmissions are戌, 丑, and 辰, all of which are earth. Earth controls water, and all of them are the official ghosts of the Ren day. This is indeed a凶 lesson. Fortunately, this is a remote control by the arrow, and the initiating transmission god is sitting in Kongwang, making the ghost's power very weak. There is also a寅 wood on the day stem, which acts as a saving god. Wood controls earth, so the ghost cannot cause harm. If the divination is done at night and the first transmission is乘 by White Tiger, it remains dangerous; but if it is done during the day and the first transmission is乘 by Azure Dragon, there is no need to worry.

逆稼穡格。如乙亥日，三傳丑戌未，財神遁丁臨干發用，必主財物。奈三傳全財，反助其支上之申金剋日，禍患必自宅中而發，惟用財求官為宜。

The "Reverse Cultivation Pattern": For example, on a Yihai day, if the three transmissions are Chou, Xu, and Wei, earth is the wealth of Yi wood. The wealth god is also hidden in the transmission, and it is located on the day stem, initiating the transmission. It seems certain that wealth will be obtained. Unfortunately, all three transmissions are filled with wealth, and excessive wealth instead nourishes the metal of the day branch, which is the official ghost of Yi wood. The official ghost, nourished by wealth, comes to harm the day. The calamity will certainly originate from the family home. This divination requires using wealth to seek officialdom—letting wealth flow naturally to generate officialdom rather than harming oneself—only then is it appropriate.

四絕陰干祿絕期。謂陰日祿神臨於絕地，曰四絕。如乙祿在卯，加申為木絕。丁己在午，加亥為火絕。辛祿在酉，加寅為金絕。癸祿在子，加巳為水絕。是陰干之祿，皆臨絕地也。主止宜結絕舊事，占食祿不宜，空亡更凶。如丁亥日，三傳午丑申，午為日祿，豈宜臨絕空亡？末傳申金為財神，又為初傳所克，中傳所墓，交車雖作六合，又係空亡，占交關求財事，俱不吉。

On days of yin, if the禄神 (favorable deity) falls on the绝 (decline) position of the Five Phases, it is called "Four Declines." The禄 of 乙 is in卯, and when卯 is added to申, it indicates that wood declines in申; the禄 of 丁 and 己 is in午, and when午 is added to亥, it indicates that fire declines in亥; the禄 of 辛 is in酉, and when酉 is added to寅, it indicates that metal declines in寅; the禄 of 癸 is in子, and when子 is added to巳, it indicates that water declines in巳. The禄 of the five yin heavenly stems all fall on their decline positions. This pattern suggests that it is only suitable to conclude old matters, and matters concerning income are not favorable. If the禄 also falls onKongwang (void), it becomes even more ominous. For example, on a Dinghai day, the three transmissions are午, 丑, and申. 午 is the禄 of 丁, but it is both on the decline and falls on the void. Although the final transmission申 is the wealth deity for fire, it is overcome by the first transmission午 fire and is buried by the middle transmission丑 earth (the burial of metal is in丑). Although the divination shows a connection of trade andLiu He (harmony), it is also associated with the void. Therefore, divination regarding trade or seeking wealth is generally unfavorable.

墓覆干頭陽日忌。謂陽日干上神乘日墓，曰四墓。如六甲日，干上未。六丙、六戊日干上戌。六庚日干上丑，六壬日干上辰是也。主作事昏昧，如在雲霧中行；惟六處有神沖之者，可解。如壬午日，三傳辰酉寅，初為鬼墓，自干上發用，末傳寅坐空，不能為救，且干支乘鬼墓，作事昏沉，遭冤莫白，如年命上乘戌沖之，庶可少解。

On a yang day, when the heavenly stem on the day's stem exactly matches the day's tomb god, it is called "Four Tombs" or "Tomb covering the stem head." For six Jia days, the stem is occupied by Wei (the tomb of wood is in Wei); for six Bing and six Wu days, the stem is occupied by Xu (the tomb of fire and earth is in Xu); for six Geng days, the stem is occupied by Chou (the tomb of metal is in Chou); and for six Ren days, the stem is occupied by Chen (the tomb of water is in Chen). This pattern indicates confusion and lack of clarity in affairs, as if walking through mist. Only when one of the six places—four lessons and three transmissions—has a god that conflicts with this tomb can the situation be resolved. For example, on a Renwu day, the three transmissions are Chen, You, and Yin. The first transmission Chen is both the official ghost and the tomb of Ren, initiating from the day's stem. The final transmission Yin, although originally capable of draining earth to save water, is ineffective because it is in Kongwang. The day's stem and branch both carry the ghost tomb, leading to confusion and inability to clarify grievances. If the person's birth stem or year stem is occupied by Xu, which conflicts with Chen, then the situation can be slightly resolved.

十二地盤無漏遺。謂十二地盤中丑加子為進茹，亥加子為退茹，寅加子為進間，戌加子為退間，辰加子為順三合，申加子為逆三合，卯加子為順三交、順關隔、順稼穡，酉加子為逆三交、逆關隔、逆稼穡。巳加子為四墓，未加子為四絕。（按：四絕四墓兩課，未盡全體之義。因備十二課之數，故聊舉二端，以見一斑雲），合之返吟伏吟兩課，而十二盤中之課，已無遺漏矣。

By adding each of the twelve earthly branches to the position of Zi, all the previously mentioned types of divination lessons can be found within them: Chou added to Zi is "Jin Ru", Hai added to Zi is "Tui Ru", Yin added to Zi is "Jin Jian", Xu added to Zi is "Tui Jian", Chen added to Zi is a forward triple harmony, Shen added to Zi is a backward triple harmony, Mao added to Zi is simultaneously a forward triple intersection, forward separation, and forward cultivation, You added to Zi is simultaneously a backward triple intersection, backward separation, and backward cultivation, Si added to Zi is "Si Mu", Wei added to Zi is "Si Jue". (Original note: The lessons of "Si Jue" and "Si Mu" do not cover all the types of lessons; this is only to make up the twelve lessons, to give a glimpse.) Adding the lessons of return chant and hidden chant, then all the types of lesson patterns formed by the Heaven Plate added to the Earth Plate are fully covered. This is a method of checking all the lessons in one plate. After casting the lesson, one can compare it with this method to determine which type of lesson it belongs to.

太陽月將乃主宰。月將即太陽，乃一課主宰之神。乘吉將發用則吉，如壬辰日申時巳將占，三傳巳寅亥，月將乘貴人作財爻發用是也。乘凶將發用則凶，如丙寅日巳時子將占，三傳子未寅，月將乘蛇作日鬼加干發用是也。

The Moon General is the Sun, the deity that dominates a divination lesson. If it is accompanied by a favorable general and initiates the transmission, then the outcome is favorable. For example, on the day of Renchen, at the hour of Shen, using the general of Si, the three transmissions are Si, Yin, and Hai. The Moon General Si is accompanied by the Nobleman and Si fire is the wealth trigram for Ren water, initiating from here is a favorable example. If it is accompanied by an unfavorable general and initiates the transmission, then the outcome is unfavorable. For example, on the day of Bingyin, at the hour of Si, using the general of Zi, the three transmissions are Zi, Wei, and Yin. The Moon General Zi is accompanied by the Teng Snake and Zi water is the official ghost trigram for Bing fire, initiating on the day stem is an unfavorable example. Therefore, when examining a lesson, one should first determine where the Sun is located and which general it is accompanied by.

太陽臨身格。身謂干也。如戊辰日巳時午將占，午為太陽加干，名太陽臨身，且將乘青龍，作生我之神，有官者主升遷，常人亦獲財利之喜，如值空亡亦可用，緣太陽本懸空之神也。又如壬午日亥時戌將占，戌為太陽加干，乘虎作鬼，主病危相侵，且時昏暮，太陽無光，諸占不吉。

The "Sun Over the Body" pattern refers to the day stem. For example, on a Wuchen day at the巳 hour, using the午 general for divination, the午 is the Sun, which is directly placed over the day stem's lodging palace, called Sun Over the Body. The Sun is also riding the Azure Dragon on the午, and fire generates earth, which is a beneficial god to me. Officials who divinate this pattern may experience promotion, while ordinary people may gain wealth and benefits. This pattern can still be used even if it falls into Kongwang, because the Sun is originally a god in the sky, and it is not afraid of being in the void. Conversely, for example, on a Renwu day at the亥 hour, using the戌 general for divination, the戌 is the Sun placed over the day stem. The戌 is riding the White Tiger, and the戌 earth is the official ghost of the Ren water, indicating disease and danger that mutually attack. Moreover, the time of divination is already dusk, and the Sun has no light, so all matters divined are unfavorable.

太陽射宅格。宅謂支也，如乙卯日卯時子將占，子為太陽加支名太陽射宅。且乘貴人而生支，如占宅，必有寶藏，或值子年占，為太歲貴人入宅，其年必產貴子。又如戊辰日辰時寅將占，寅為太陽加支，乘蛇克宅，主其家必多怪異之事。

The "Sun Shooting into the House Pattern" refers to the "house" as the day branch. For example, on a Yimao day at the卯 hour, using the Zi general for divination, Zi is the Sun, which is directly placed on the day branch, called "Sun Shooting into the House." If Zi is also accompanied by the Nobleman, water nourishes wood, and this returns to nourish the day branch. When divining about the family residence, there must be hidden treasures in the house. If this occurs on a Zi year, then the Sovereign and Nobleman both enter the house, and the family will certainly have a noble child that year. Conversely, on a Wuchen day at the辰 hour, using the寅 general for divination,寅 is the Sun placed directly on the day branch, and寅 is accompanied by the Teng Snake. Wood overcomes earth, which comes to overcome the house, indicating that the family will certainly experience many strange occurrences.

時作先鋒已洩機。先鋒謂正時，古人未得課傳，先視正時，而事之原委已知。如壬癸日得午時，午為胎神，即知為六甲而占。丙丁日得申時，申為日財，即知為求財而占。如遇驛馬，主遷動，遇空亡主侵欺。與日干生合則吉，與日干沖剋則凶。如刑剋年命，尤為大忌。時用生日可知。謂占時發用，生其日干，如乙未日亥時卯將占，三傳亥卯未是也。蓋時為目前，用為事始。今並生日干，動得生機，凡有謀為，無不遂意，生支者亦同。

The term "vanguard" refers to the exact time of the event being divined. In ancient times, before the arrangement of the three transmissions, people first looked at this exact time, and already half of the event's details were revealed. For example, if on a Ren day or Gui day the time is Wu, Wu is the nurturing stage of water, indicating that the person is divining about pregnancy and childbirth. If on a Bing day or Ding day the time is Shen, Shen metal is the wealth element of fire days, indicating that the person is divining about seeking wealth. If the time coincides with the post-horse, it indicates movement or travel; if it coincides with kongwang, it indicates being deceived or wronged by others. If the time element harmonizes with the day stem, it is auspicious; if it conflicts or controls the day stem, it is inauspicious. If the transmission harms the person's own birth year, it is especially dangerous. The principle of "the time element generating the day stem" can be understood in this way: the time element initiates the transmission and generates the day stem. For example, on Yiwei day at Hai time, with Mao as the general, the three transmissions are Hai, Mao, and Wei, which is this pattern. The time is the present moment, and the initiating transmission is the beginning of the matter. Now both generate the day stem at once, and once there is movement, there is vitality, so any plan will be successful. The principle is the same when the initiating transmission generates the day branch.

時用剋日格。謂占時發用，克其日干，如庚辰日午時辰將占，三傳午辰寅是也。時用同剋日干，則至近之地，先有所阻，諸事艱難。凡占不吉。如末傳及年命上神，有子孫為救可解，此課惟追逃捕盜為宜。

"The 'Time God Overcomes Day Stem' pattern: the god of the time initiates and overcomes the day stem. For example, on a Gengchen day at the Wu hour, if the initiating transmission is the Chen general, and the three transmissions are Wu, Chen, and Yin, this is the pattern. If both the time and the initiating transmission overcome the day stem, then the nearest obstruction comes first, and all affairs will be difficult and unfavorable. However, if the final transmission or the person's own destiny and age line has the son element—since the son element can control the official ghost element—it acts as a saving deity and can resolve the issue. This divination is particularly suitable for chasing down fugitives or capturing thieves: the one who overcomes me is exactly the person to be captured, and being able to overcome indicates a successful capture."

歲主一年分禍福。歲謂太歲，甲年見甲，乙年見乙，謂之歲君。子年見子，丑年見丑，謂之太歲。太歲如天子，月建如諸候，掌太歲月內之事。其權最重。如值太歲發用，主遠大之事，干於朝廷。乘吉將生合則吉，乘凶將刑剋則凶。分敘於左（一雲太歲臨干支年命，君子則吉，常人則有官事）。

"The term 'year' refers to the 'Supreme Sovereign' (Tai Sui). In a lesson (ke) of the year of Jia, if Jia appears, it is called 'Year Sovereign' (Sui Jun), referring to the Heavenly Stem; in a lesson of the year of Zi, if Zi appears, it is called 'Supreme Sovereign' (Tai Sui), referring to the Earthly Branch. The Supreme Sovereign is like a sovereign, and the Month Builder is like a feudal lord, each governing matters within a year and a month respectively. The authority of the Supreme Sovereign is the greatest. If the Supreme Sovereign is the initiating transmission (fa yong) in the lesson, the matter foretold is of great significance, possibly involving the court. If the Supreme Sovereign is accompanied by a favorable general (ji jiang) and harmonizes or generates with the day stem, it is auspicious; if it is accompanied by an unfavorable general and conflicts or overcomes the day stem, it is inauspicious. The following section explains this in detail. (Original note: If the Supreme Sovereign is present on the day stem, day branch, or the person's birth year, a gentleman would consider it auspicious, but a common person might face legal troubles—this exalted deity is not something ordinary people can bear.)"

天恩課。謂太歲發用，乘吉將生合日干、年命上神，曰天恩。如壬寅日三傳申亥寅，夜將申年占，為太歲乘龍生日，主前程遠大，名利兩全。如乘龍常有官者遷轉。乘朱空，主有朝信動，乘天后主有恩澤至。

"The Heavenly Grace Divination" refers to when the year's master is the initiating transmission, and it is accompanied by a favorable star that generates and harmonizes with the day stem or the person's birth year. This is called Heavenly Grace. For example, on a Renyin day, the three transmissions are Shen, Hai, and Yin, using the night general, and in the year of Shen, Shen is the year's master. The star on top of Shen is the Azure Dragon, which generates the day stem Ren water. This indicates great prospects, and success in both fame and fortune. If the year's master is accompanied by the Azure Dragon or Tai Chang, it indicates promotion or transfer for those in official positions. If it is accompanied by the Vermilion Bird or Tian Kong, it indicates information coming from the court. If it is accompanied by the Heavenly Empress, it indicates grace descending from above.

天禍課。謂太歲發用乘凶將刑剋日干及年命上神，曰天禍。如己未日，三傳卯亥未，夜將卯年占，為太歲乘虎加干支作鬼，主事起至大，罪干朝廷，凡占皆凶。

"The Heaven's Misfortune Divination": When the sovereign star initiates the transmission and rides upon a凶神 to刑克 the day stem or the person's birth year, this is called Heaven's Misfortune. For example, on a Jiwei day, the three transmissions are卯, 亥, 未. If it is in the卯 year, the卯 is the sovereign star, riding upon White Tiger, and also added upon the day stem and day branch, becoming the official ghost of Ji soil. This indicates a very serious matter, with responsibility extending to the court. All divinations in such a case are ominous.

月司一月別安危。謂課值月建發用，乘吉神生合則吉，乘凶將刑剋則凶。分敘於左。

If the month builder is exactly the one in the current month and it initiates the transmission, then if it is accompanied by a favorable deity and harmonizes with the day stem, it is auspicious. If it is accompanied by an evil general and causes conflict and punishment with the day stem, it is inauspicious. The month builder governs the safety and danger within a month. Although its authority is less than the year stem, it is closest to the current fortune. Therefore, after casting the divination, one should pay attention to where the month builder falls in the current month. The following lists the details.

時泰課。謂月建發和，乘吉神生合日干年命上神，曰時泰。凡占以時運亨泰論。如正月庚子日戌時亥將占，三傳寅卯辰，寅為月建，將乘青龍，作干之財神，諸占俱吉。

"The Timely Prosperity Divination": The month builder initiates the transmission (the original text mistakenly writes "initiates and harmonises" instead of "initiates the transmission"), riding on a favorable deity to generate and harmonise with the day stem or the person's birth year deity. This is called timely prosperity. In all divinations, one should judge according to the auspicious and smooth flow of time and fortune. For example, on the Gengzi day in the first lunar month at the戌 hour, using the亥 general for divination, the three transmissions are寅, 卯, and 辰.寅 is the month builder of the first lunar month, riding the Azure Dragon, and寅 wood is the wealth deity for Geng metal. Therefore, all matters divined are favorable.

時否課。謂月建發用，乘凶神刑剋日干年命上神，曰時否課。凡占以時運否塞論，如七月甲午日申時巳將占，三傳申巳寅，申為月建，乘虎克日干支，末傳又無神，凶禍難免。

"The 'Time of Obstruction' divination": When the month builder and initiating transmission are combined with aInauspicious Spirit (malevolent deity), and thisInauspicious Spirit harms the day stem or the person's birth year, it is called the 'Time of Obstruction'. In all divinations, this is interpreted as the time when fate is blocked and unsmooth. For example, on the day of Jiawu in the seventh month, at the hour of Shen, using the general of Si, the three transmissions are Shen, Si, and Yin. Shen is the month builder of the seventh month, riding on the White Tiger, and Shen metal harms the day stem Jia wood and also harms the day branch; there is no saving deity in the final transmission. Misfortune is inevitable.

丁作動神兩歧斷。謂丁為動神，如庚辛壬癸四干，課傳年命見旬丁，水日主財動，金日主凶動。分敘於左。

In the ten-day period, the "ding" (丁) is an active deity; when "ding" appears, affairs are sure to move. Considering the four day stems of geng, xin, ren, and gui: if among the four lessons, three transmissions, the native's stem, and the year of movement, the "ding" deity of the current ten-day period is encountered, then on water days (ren and gui), it indicates movement of wealth; on metal days (geng and xin), it indicates the occurrence of misfortune. It is the same "ding," yet it leads to both good and bad outcomes, hence it is called "two-way judgment." The following explains it in detail.

水日逢丁例。謂壬癸日，六處逢旬內丁神主財動。惟畏占人行年上神克去六丁乘神則不吉。壬申癸酉日見卯，則因子息而財動。壬午癸未日見丑，壬子癸丑日見未，則因官事而財動。內癸丑癸未日，有三傳皆鬼者，不用。壬辰癸巳日見亥，則因兄弟而財動。壬寅癸卯日見酉，則因長上而財動。壬戌癸亥日見巳，則因妻妾而財動。內癸巳癸亥日為丁馬交加，其財動更速。或有娶妻之喜。如已娶則有別妻之憂。

The rule "Water Day Meets Ding" states that on days of Jia Zi, if the day is Ren or Gui, and in the four lessons, three transmissions, the native's own destiny, or the year of birth, the Ding spirit of the current ten-day cycle appears, it indicates movement of wealth. The only concern is if the spirit of the year of birth is able to overcome the spirit that Ding is riding on, which would be inauspicious. Specifically: On days of Ren Shen and Gui You, if the卯 (Ding Mao in the Jia Zi cycle) appears, it indicates movement of wealth due to children; on days of Ren Wu and Gui Wei, if the丑 (Ding Chou in the Jia Xu cycle) appears, on days of Ren Zi and Gui Chou, if the未 (Ding Wei in the Jia Chen cycle) appears, it indicates movement of wealth due to official matters—however, if on days of Gui Chou and Gui Wei, the three transmissions are all official ghosts, this rule does not apply; on days of Ren Chen and Gui Si, if the亥 (Ding Hai in the Jia Shen cycle) appears, it indicates movement of wealth due to brothers; on days of Ren Yin and Gui Mao, if the酉 (Ding You in the Jia Wu cycle) appears, it indicates movement of wealth due to superiors; on days of Ren Xu and Gui Hai, if the巳 (Ding Si in the Jia Yin cycle) appears, it indicates movement of wealth due to wife or concubine. On days of Gui Si and Gui Hai, where Ding and the post-horse meet, the movement of wealth is faster, or there may be joy of marriage; if already married, there may be worry of a second wife.

金日逢丁例。謂庚辛二干，六處見旬內丁神，主凶動。庚午辛未日見卯，則因妻妾而凶動。或取財而禍至。庚辰辛巳日見丑，庚與辛亥日見未，則因長上而凶動。庚寅辛卯見亥，則因子孫而凶動。庚申辛酉日見巳則因官事而凶動。如將乘白虎，其凶動尤速。要占人年命上神克去六丁所乘神可解。如有官人占赴任則極速，反不宜六處有神制之。

"The Example of Metal Day Meeting Ding": If the heavenly stems Geng and Xin appear in the four lessons, three transmissions, native's stem, and year stem of the six places, and they meet the Ding spirit of the current ten-day cycle, it indicates the occurrence of misfortune. On Gengwu and Xinwei days, if the卯 (Dingmao in the Jiazi cycle) appears, misfortune arises due to wife or concubine, or due to seeking wealth leading to calamity. On Gengchen and Xinsi days, if the丑 (Dingchou in the Jiaxu cycle) appears; on Gengxu and Xinhai days, if the未 (Dingwei in the Jiachen cycle; the original text mistakenly writes 'Gengwu' instead of 'Gengxu'), misfortune arises due to superiors. On Jiayin and Xinmao days, if the亥 (Dinghai in the Jiashen cycle) appears, misfortune arises due to descendants. On Gengshen and Xinyou days, if the巳 (Dingsi in the Dinghai cycle) appears, misfortune arises due to official matters. If the Ding is accompanied by the White Tiger, the misfortune occurs more quickly. To resolve this, the person seeking divination needs their native and year stems to overcome the spirit accompanying Ding. However, if someone who already holds an official position seeks to take office, this is actually favorable—Ding horse promotes rapid arrival at the post, and it is then undesirable for the six places to restrain it.

遁丁助財格。謂干上神作財，而支上神又遁丁作財，如六壬日，干上午，丁神加支，明暗作財，其妻財必非細之動，六癸日無此例。

The "Dun Ding Zuo Cai Ge" pattern: The day stem already has a wealth element, and the day branch also gains the assistance of Ding, which also functions as wealth. This creates wealth in both the open and hidden positions. For example, on six Jinh days, the day stem is occupied by Wu (fire), which is the wealth for Ren water. The Ding element is also added to the day branch, resulting in wealth both openly and secretly. Therefore, changes in wife and wealth must be of considerable magnitude. This pattern does not apply to six Gui days.

遁丁助鬼格。謂干上神剋日，而支上神又乘丁克日，如六庚日，干上巳，丁神加支，六辛日干上午，丁神加支，主人罹禍而宅動搖。惟有官者占赴任極速，六辛日晝占午作貴人更妙。

The "Dun Ding Zhu Gui Ge" pattern: The day stem is already being overcome by the heavenly stem above it, and the day branch is further overcome by the Ding stem. This results in a double ghostly influence. For example, on six days of Geng (metal), the day stem is occupied by Si (fire), which overcomes Geng metal, and the Ding stem is added on top of the day branch; on six days of Xin (metal), the day stem is occupied by Wu (fire), and the Ding stem is added on top of the day branch. This indicates that the person will suffer misfortune and their home will be unstable. However, for those holding official positions who are seeking office, this is a good omen, and they will be appointed quickly. On six days of Xin, if the divination is done in the daytime, the Wu position is occupied by a nobleman, which is even more favorable— the ghostly influence turns into a nobleman, accelerating the official's appointment.