The Six Rens Military Camp Assignment

上將臨戎，傳式論攻。測將神之動靜，觀主客之雌雄。上將行年克勾處者勝。干為客，為先動。支為主，為後動。

The main general personally leads the battle, and one must turn out the formation disk and use the Three Transmissions to deduce attack and defense. One should measure the movement and stillness of the heavenly general and the earthly branches, observing which side is stronger. If the spirit of the main general's birth year can overcome the place where Gou Chen is located, then victory is possible. The day stem represents the opposing side and is the one that moves first; the day branch represents the main side and is the one that moves later.

吳坎臨奇，秦宮加偶。歲剛柔之運轉，月支干以研窮。吳為丑地，秦為未地。《黃帝初占》云：凡陽年以大吉加歲支，陰年以小吉加歲支，看四課三傳。及占卜十二邦國，各得吉凶神將所主之事。

In the region of Wu, the branch of Chou is added to a yang year, and in the region of Qin, the branch of Wei is added to a yin year. Following the alternation of yang and yin in the years, one should further examine the month and day stems. Wu refers to the position of Chou, and Qin refers to the position of Wei. The "Yellow Emperor's Initial Divination" states: whenever encountering a yang year, place "Daji" (Chou) on the stem of the year; whenever encountering a yin year, place "Xiaoji" (Wei) on the stem of the year. Then observe the four lessons and three transmissions. Using this board to divinate the territories of the twelve states, each can determine the affairs governed by the auspicious and inauspicious deities and generals.

假令己丑歲，是為陰年，以小吉加丑，是反吟四柔，用井欄射法。初傳巳上登明為用，將得六合。中傳丑上見小吉，將得天后。末傳未上見大吉將得青龍。此等卦，繫暮占。卯上見從魁為螣蛇，卯為宋分，主口舌事。酉上見太沖為白虎，酉為趙分，是年二月，趙分有災。餘仿此。

For example, in the year Jichou, which is a yin year, the Xiaoji (Wei) is placed on Chou. The resulting divination is a "Reverse Chant" lesson, with all four lessons being soft. In such cases, the method of "Well Shaft Shooting" is used to determine the initiating element. The first transmission is Dengming (Hai) on Si, with the accompanying Heavenly General being Liu He. The middle transmission is Xiaoji (Wei) on Chou, with the accompanying Heavenly General being Heavenly Empress. The final transmission is Daji (Chou) on Wei, with the accompanying Heavenly General being Azure Dragon. This type of lesson is associated with night divination. On Mao, there is Congkui (You) accompanied by Teng Snake, and Mao is the territory of Song, indicating disputes and conflicts. On You, there is Taichong (Mao) accompanied by White Tiger, and You is the territory of Zhao, indicating disaster in Zhao during the second month of that year. The same reasoning applies to other years.

又如丁卯年，小吉加卯，大吉臨酉，酉乃趙分，上見墓神臨之，主自作亂。其十二邦國分野，皆以所臨神將定其吉凶。

For example, in the year of Dingmao, the small blessing (Wei) is placed on Mao. Thus, the great blessing (Chou) comes to You. You is the territory of Zhao, and seeing the tomb deity arrive there indicates internal disorder in the territory of Zhao. The territories of the other twelve states are also determined in this way, looking at the deities that appear on each position to judge future fortune or misfortune.

亦舉合神，加月支於南北；合神者，甲與己合、乙與庚合、丙與辛合、丁與壬合、戊與癸合是也。加月支者，以歲合加月支，遁五子元也。假令甲申年，正月丙寅，歲合在己，己遁在巳，以巳加月建。占十二邦國神將吉凶成敗也。復推日宿，立用神之東西。日宿即月將。

Another method involves identifying the 'Heavenly Harmony God' and adding it to the monthly branch to determine the north or south. The Heavenly Harmony God refers to the five pairs of heavenly stems that harmonize with each other: Jia and Ji, Yi and Geng, Bing and Xin, Ding and Ren, and Wu and Gui. Adding the monthly branch involves taking the harmonizing god of the heavenly stem of the current year and adding it to the monthly branch, then using the 'Five Subordinates' mnemonic to determine the position. For example, in the year Jiashen, the monthly branch for the first month is Bingyin. The harmonizing god of Jia is Ji, and according to the Five Subordinates, Ji moves to Si. Therefore, Si is added to the monthly branch. This method is used to determine the fortune and success of the twelve regional deities. Then, proceed to determine the 'Day Host,' which is used to establish whether the Useful God is in the east or west. The Day Host refers to the monthly general.

敵有使來，正時占決。支神制干，即為真說。若辰上神制日上神，其言可信，客畏主也。反此有奸心，不可信也，一本云，時上神剋日上神，亦主多詐。

If an enemy envoy arrives, use the current correct time to cast the divination and make a decision. The god in the day branch can control the god in the day stem, indicating that what is being said is true. If the god in the day branch controls the god in the day stem, his words are trustworthy, because this shows the envoy fears the main party. Conversely, if the god in the day stem controls the god in the day branch, it indicates deceit, and one should not believe him. Another text says that if the god in the time branch controls the god in the day stem, it also suggests the envoy is deceitful.

將朱空而言有欺詐，用角陰而行推奸譎。日上神見朱雀、天空，來情有變，虛詞欺詐也。角者，天罡也。陰者，太陰也。二神將用起年命者，所言不可信，謂太陰蔽翳，天罡凶神也。

If the Heavenly General is the Vermilion Bird or Tian Kong, then the words spoken will involve deceit. If the Initiating Transmission involves Tiangang and Tai Yin, then actions should be considered with suspicion of cunning. When the Day Stem's spirit encounters the Vermilion Bird or Tian Kong, it indicates that the intention is changeable and the words are false. The term "Jiao" refers to Tiangang (Chen), and "Yin" refers to Tai Yin. If these two spirits originate from the main general's year of birth and Initiating Transmission, then whatever is said is unreliable, because Tai Yin signifies concealment and obscurity, while Tiangang is a malevolent spirit.

下生上位，知詭詐以休行。干葉於支，謂陰謀之罷結。日上神與辰上神相生，則兩軍無礙，陰謀必止。

The god in the lower position generates the god in the upper position, indicating that deceitful schemes will not be carried out; the Day Stem and Day Branch harmonize and support each other, showing that secret plots have already been resolved. When the gods on the Day Stem and Day Branch mutually generate each other, there will be no obstruction between the two armies, and the conspiracy is certainly stopped.

寅申巳亥，天耳四時。年上見者，來使潛機。春寅，夏巳，秋申，冬亥，乃天耳也。天耳臨日辰、命年者，來使必有奸謀，其言不可信也。

The trigrams Yin, Shen, Si, and Hai take turns according to the four seasons, which is called "Heavenly Ear." If one of these appears in the year of birth, the person in charge will have hidden intentions. In spring, use Yin; in summer, use Si; in autumn, use Shen; in winter, use Hai. This is what is called Heavenly Ear. When Heavenly Ear appears on the day stem, day branch, or the person's birth year, the person in charge certainly harbors deceitful schemes, and his words should not be trusted.

後乙曹沖，在日辰而詐約；貪狼奸賊，臨支干以虛欺。後即神后，乙即太乙，曹即功曹，沖即太沖，此四神也。申子為貪狼，辰未為奸邪，亥卯為陰賊，此為六賊，天神也。

Shenhou, Taiyi, Gongcao, and Taichong are four spirits that, when falling on the day stem and day branch, indicate that the other party is deceiving with false promises. If the凶 spirits Tuanlang, Jianxie, and Yinzhe appear on the stem and branch, it signifies deception through empty words. "Hou" refers to Shenhou (Zi), "Yi" refers to Taiyi (Si), "Cao" refers to Gongcao (Yin), and "Chong" refers to Taichong (Mao), which are the four spirits. Sheng and Zi are called Tuanlang, Chen and Wei are called Jianxie, Hai and Mao are called Yinzhe, collectively known as the "six villains," all being凶 spirits among the heavenly deities.

如占敵人相約呼召可往否，若日辰見子、寅、卯、辰、巳、未、申、亥加臨，切不可往，其言虛欺也。若四神不宜往約，六賊不宜聽信賊言。以上四神、六賊，或並見六處，乘惡將，乃主詐耳。不然，十二支已去八字矣，豈止四字為實乎？

For example, if you are divining whether you should accept an invitation from an enemy, if the day stem and day branch show Zi, Yin, Mao, Chen, Si, Wei, Shen, or Hai, you must absolutely not go. What he says is all false and deceptive. If the four spirits are present, you should not accept the invitation. If the six thieves are present, you should not believe the enemy's words. However, the above four spirits and six thieves must appear together in the six places and be accompanied by evil heavenly generals for the deception to be genuine. Otherwise, the twelve earthly branches have already excluded eight characters; how can only four characters be considered true?

外國人來，歲神克乙而禍生，若外國人來投拜者，正時占，太歲上神克天乙者，主人賊不可信。他邦異情，陰神賊日以愁之。日辰之陰神自勝其干支或干支上神者，主不利也。

Foreigners coming from outside, if the god of the year branches and overcomes Tianyi Nobleman, misfortune will occur. Whenever foreigners come to submit and pledge allegiance, use the current correct time to cast the divination. If the god of the year branches overcomes Tianyi, it indicates that the person has evil intentions and should not be trusted. If another country has ulterior motives, the hidden god of the day branch will overcome the day stem, and one should be worried. If the hidden gods of the day stem and day branch turn around to overcome their own stems and branches, or overcome the gods on the stems and branches, it indicates that things will be unfavorable.

發使諸方，年路支干，切忌魁罡，次憂伏反。發使諸方，正時占，日辰及使人行年、去路方位之上，忌見天魁、天罡，更忌伏吟、反吟，皆不利也。

When sending envoys to various directions, the aspects of the year stem, the journey, and the day stem and day branch are most忌 to encounter Hekui (Xu) and Tiangang (Chen). It is also feared to meet Fu Yin or Fan Yin. When dispatching envoys to different places, using the correct time to cast the divination, the day stem and day branch, the envoy's year stem, and the direction of the journey should avoid Hekui (Xu) and Tiangang (Chen). It is even more忌 to cast Fu Yin or Fan Yin lessons. These are all unfavorable.

門傷年處，道行殃而凶將災深；年制門時，滯病歸而吉神禍淺。正時占，若所去國門上神來傷行人年上神，行必有殃，吉將災淺、凶將災深。若行人行年上神傷門上神。主滯病而歸。

If the deity at the city gate of the country being traveled to is harmful to the person's age deity, there will certainly be calamity on the way, and if a凶将 is involved, the disaster will be more severe. Conversely, if the person's age deity restrains the deity at the city gate, although the person may return sick, if a吉神 is involved, the disaster will be lighter. Using the correct time to cast the divination: if the deity at the city gate of the destination country harms the deity of the person's age, the journey will certainly bring misfortune; if a吉将 is involved, the disaster will be lighter, but if a凶将 is involved, the disaster will be heavier. If the deity of the person's age harms the deity at the city gate, it indicates the person will get sick and be delayed before returning.

初宜參觜，三傳終而吉將堪憑；參、觜二宿在申，故以申稱參觜也。發使之時得傳送為初傳，大吉也。如三傳終得見傳送，與吉將並即吉，與凶將並即凶。夫初傳得見傳送，亦須吉將併為吉也。

The first transmission is best when it reaches the position of the mansion of Three Stars and the mansion of Turtle Beak, which are both in the position of Shen. If the three transmissions end with a favorable general, it becomes even more advantageous. Since both the mansion of Three Stars and the mansion of Turtle Beak are in the position of Shen, they are collectively referred to as "Shen." When sending a messenger and the first transmission is "Chuansong" (Shen), it is considered very auspicious. If the three transmissions end with "Chuansong" and it is accompanied by a favorable general, it is auspicious; if it is accompanied by an unfavorable general, it is inauspicious. Naturally, if the first transmission is "Chuansong," it must also be accompanied by a favorable general to be considered auspicious.

日忌歲傷，顧干神以到時預選。日發之時，忌干勿為歲所克，以克則凶也。若到彼之日，又不可令克初發之日。假令庚辛日發行，不宜丙、丁日到，為傷元發之日，主凶也；宜壬、庚日到則吉。所以到時預先選擇，取相生為吉。

On the day of departure, it is most inauspicious for the day stem to be overcome by the Tai Su. Therefore, one should take care of the day stem's deity and pre-select the day of arrival. On the day of departure, it is forbidden for the day stem to be overcome by the Tai Su; being overcome brings misfortune. As for the day of arrival, it should not allow the day stem of that day to overcome the day stem of the departure day. For example, if departing on a Geng or Xin day, it is not advisable to arrive on a Bing or Ding day, because fire (Bing and Ding) overcomes metal (Geng and Xin), which would injure the day stem of the departure day, leading to misfortune. It is favorable to arrive on a Ren or Geng day. Therefore, the day of arrival should be pre-selected, with mutual generation being auspicious.

忽聞賊起，天罡之前即知來去。以月將加正時，視天罡所臨之處也。天罡加孟，賊不來，是虛說；加季賊來急；加仲，則未來，或半路遲疑未進。

Suddenly hearing that the enemy has moved, just look at where the Tiangang falls to know whether they are coming or going. Use the Month General placed on the exact hour to turn out the Heaven Plate, and see where the Tiangang falls. If the Tiangang falls on the four Meng positions, the enemy will not come, and the rumor is false; if it falls on the four Ji positions, the enemy is coming urgently; if it falls on the four Zhong positions, then they have not yet started, or they are already halfway and hesitating.

欲知行止，圓精視處必見心田。欲知賊之去處行藏，當視天目之下，有賊在也。春辰、夏未、秋戌、冬丑。以月將加時，便知賊所在處。國精，天目也。

To know whether the enemy is moving or staying, look at where the "round spirit" falls, and you will have an idea. To find out the enemy's movements and hiding place, observe beneath the "heavenly eye," for the enemy is there. The heavenly eye is determined by the season: in spring it is Chen, in summer it is Wei, in autumn it is Xu, and in winter it is Chou. Use the month general combined with the time of divination to turn out the heaven plate, and you will know where the enemy is. The "national spirit" mentioned here is the same as the heavenly eye.

井未角辰貴人覆支干而賊兵益急，井宿在未，角宿在辰。貴人者天乙也。凡辰、未臨日辰，賊必至。若辰、未不臨日辰，賊不來。若辰加季，天乙又臨日辰，賊必至；天乙臨日辰，而辰加孟，賊去虛言來也。

If the Well mansion is in the Wei position and the Horn mansion is in the Chen position, and together with the nobleman (Tianyi), they cover over the day stem and day branch, the enemy troops will come more urgently. The Well mansion is in the Wei palace, and the Horn mansion is in the Chen palace; the nobleman refers to Tianyi. Whenever the Chen or Wei positions are on the day stem and day branch, the enemy will surely arrive; if the Chen and Wei positions are not on the day stem and day branch, the enemy will not come. If the Chen position is added to the four seasonal positions, and the nobleman is also on the day stem and day branch, the enemy will definitely arrive; if the nobleman is on the day stem and day branch, but the Chen position is added to the four beginning positions, then the enemy has already left, and the prediction is false.

玄白制日入熒惑而城壘宜堅。玄白即玄武、白虎也。聞兵至時，玄武、白虎所乘神剋日，賊強，宜急備之。若我掠他人、襲敵人，必遂所願也。

The Black Tortoise and White Tiger restrain the day stem, and if they fall into the position of the planet Fluorescent Flame, the city defenses should be reinforced. The Black Tortoise and White Tiger refer to the Black Tortoise and White Tiger. When hearing of enemy troops approaching, if the deities riding the Black Tortoise and White Tiger overcome the day stem, it indicates the enemy is strong and we should be vigilant. Conversely, if our side is planning to raid or attack the enemy, encountering this situation can lead to success.

太白，謂庚辛也。熒惑，謂丙、丁也。聞賊忽來之時，若天上之庚、辛臨地盤丙、丁之上，賊必來；若天上之丙、丁加地盤庚、辛之上，賊不來也。假令甲子旬中以寅、卯為丙、丁，以午、未為庚、辛。若天盤午、未臨地盤寅卯之上，賊必來，宜堅守城壘。若寅、卯臨午、未之上，是熒惑壓住太白金星，賊不來。金氣遇火不敢動故也。

The term "Tai Bai" refers to Geng and Xin; the term "Ying He" refers to Bing and Ding. If enemies suddenly attack, and the Heaven Plate's Geng and Xin are placed over the Earth Plate's Bing and Ding, the enemy will surely come. But if the Heaven Plate's Bing and Ding are placed over the Earth Plate's Geng and Xin, the enemy will not come. For example, in the first ten days of the Jiazi cycle, according to the method of hidden stems, Yin and Mao are paired with Bing and Ding, while Wu and Wei are paired with Geng and Xin. If the Heaven Plate's Wu and Wei are placed over the Earth Plate's Yin and Mao, the enemy will surely come, and we should hold the city firmly. However, if the Heaven Plate's Yin and Mao are placed over the Earth Plate's Wu and Wei, it means the Ying He fire star is pressing upon the Tai Bai metal star, and the enemy will not come—because metal meets fire and does not dare to act recklessly.

復察游都，支干傷急；戴虎並蛇，師徒敗績。此下論游都之吉凶。臨辰覆日，立見賊來與蛇、虎相併，主軍有敗亡之禍。臨辰克辰，尤凶，尤準。

Now examine the Yu Du: if it harms or overcomes the day stem and day branch, the enemy situation becomes urgent; if Yu Du is opposing the White Tiger and is in the same place as the Teng Snake, the army will suffer defeat. The following sections all discuss the auspiciousness and inauspiciousness of Yu Du. If Yu Du is on the day branch and covers the day stem, enemies will arrive immediately; if it is also with the Teng Snake and White Tiger together, it indicates disaster within the army. If Yu Du is on the day branch and overcomes the day branch, it is especially dangerous and the prediction will be especially accurate.

都將囚死，日辰不克以無憂；或加干支，上下相制而來疾。游都若到囚死之地，不克日辰，亦無驚也。若臨日辰，上下相剋，賊即來，急疾。凡游都無剋日者，止有克辰耳。

If the You Du falls in a position of captivity or death and does not control the day stem or day branch, there is no need to worry. If it is added upon the day stem and day branch with mutual control between upper and lower, enemies will come quickly. If You Du moves to a position of captivity or death without vitality and does not control the day stem or day branch, there is nothing to be alarmed about. If it is placed upon the day stem and day branch with mutual control between upper and lower, enemies will arrive immediately and swiftly. Generally, when You Du does not control the day stem, it can at most control the day branch.

孟仲季神定虛真，總領於天罡；游都加孟賊不來，加季賊必來，加仲遲疑。天罡加孟主憂畏，加仲兩相傷，加季主戰。

Whether the rumor is true or false depends on where it falls—on the four beginning months, the four middle months, or the four seasonal months—and all of this is overseen by the Tiangang. If the Tiangang falls on the four beginning months, enemies will not come; if it falls on the four seasonal months, enemies will definitely come; if it falls on the four middle months, enemies are still hesitating. If the Tiangang falls on the four beginning months, it indicates inner anxiety; if it falls on the four middle months, it indicates mutual injuries on both sides; if it falls on the four seasonal months, it indicates an impending battle.

耳目神居探消息，皆從於地室。大吉丑、小吉未為天目，太沖卯從魁酉為天耳。天耳即地室也。聞賊不的，即使遊騎向天耳下聽之，必得賊人行止消息。欲聽密事，亦於天耳下察之，必得。

The places where the spirits of the ears and eyes reside can be used to gather intelligence, and all of this must start with the "earth chamber." Daji (Chou) and Xiaoji (Wei) are called Tianmu, while Taichong (Mao) and Congkui (You) are called Tian'er; Tian'er is also the earth chamber. If there is a report of enemy movements but it is not certain, send mobile cavalry to the area under Tian'er to listen, and they will certainly obtain information about the enemy's movements. If one wishes to investigate secret matters, they should also conduct reconnaissance under Tian'er, and they will surely gain something.

不臨支干，憂合貴人；好鄉不戰，畏處交兵。游都不臨支干，而與天乙並者，賊亦來，游都所臨相生，此好鄉不戰。若寅為游都，加申酉之上，是寅木所畏之鄉，當此之時，父子不相親，中外不相念，戰鬥必也。凡游都與天乙，在日辰前一辰，則一日至；二辰，則二日至；隔四辰則不至也。游都所臨下辰剋日亦忌。

The place of You Du does not need to be on the day stem or day branch, but if it is together with Tian Yi Gu Ren, there is still cause for concern. If You Du falls in a harmonious position, there will be no conflict. If it falls in a position it fears, there will be battle. Even if You Du is not on the day stem or day branch but is in the same position as Tian Yi, the enemy will still come. If the position where You Du falls is mutually generating, this is called "good place," and there will be no battle. If寅 is You Du and is placed over申 or酉, this is the metal place that寅 wood fears. At this time, the enemy's family members will not be close and the inside and outside will not support each other, leading inevitably to battle. Generally, if You Du and Tian Yi fall in the previous hour of the day stem or day branch, they will arrive within one day. If they fall in the previous two hours, they will arrive within two days. If they are separated by four hours, they will not come. If the branch under which You Du falls is able to overcome the day stem, it is also something to be cautious about.

若在東方猛烈兮，宜堅城壘；或當南面威強兮，速備關津。聞賊至時，正時占，游都臨東方，其賊勢猛；若臨南方，其勢亦不可當也。經云：“卯辰巳等宜防賊，兵書云此是三刑。”

If the Yu Du is in the east, the enemy's force is fierce and the city defenses should be reinforced; if it is facing the south, the enemy's strength is overwhelming and the passes and ferry crossings should be urgently guarded. When hearing that the enemy is about to arrive, use the correct time to cast the divination: if Yu Du is in the east, the enemy's force is fierce; if it is in the south, its strength is unstoppable. The classic says: "Be cautious of thieves when the hours of卯, 辰, and 巳 are involved, as the military treat these consecutive hours as the Three Punishments."

在西疑遲，可行恩而犒將；臨北事退，可宴樂而棲遲。游都臨西方，其賊遲疑未進，可行賞犒之事。若在北方，主賊退，可宴樂無虞也。又看旺相死休囚。

The Yu Du is located in the west, indicating the enemy hesitates and does not advance, so we can reward and entertain our soldiers; if Yu Du is in the north, the enemy has already retreated, and we can hold feasts, enjoy ourselves, and rest calmly. Additionally, we should also consider the Qi of Yu Du's position, whether it is in the state of Wàng (Prosperity), Xiàng (Growth), Sǐ (Decline), Xiū (Rest), or Qiú (Captivity).

天罡天陽，月建地陽，動偶天陰天魁，靜陰地陰玄見玄武。《玉帳經》云：“天罡為天陽，月建為地陽，天魁為天陰，玄武為地陰。”常法，他處以太歲為地陰。

Tiangang (Chen) is heavenly yang, and the month builder is earthly yang; the moving heavenly yin, which forms pairs, is Tiankui (Xu), while the still earthly yin is represented by Xuanwu. The "Juyang Jing" says: "Tiangang is heavenly yang, the month builder is earthly yang, Tiankui is heavenly yin, and Xuanwu is earthly yin." According to the commonly used method, other books also regard the Tai sui as earthly yin. These four pairs correspond with each other, and this is the basis for the following analysis of the relationships between sovereign and subject, father and son, and the changes between water and fire.

若交相覆，君臣驚悖於奸謀；或曰重臨，水火提防於事變。若天陽天陰互相交復，主君臣不相和協，占國兵察地陰，若陰覆陽者，臣欲害君，子欲害父，婦欲害夫也。若陽覆陰時，君欲害臣，父欲害子，夫欲害妻也。若值重陽重陰，皆凶。重陽時火驚，重陰時水驚，若聞有賊，亦急備之。

If the heavenly yang and heavenly yin overlap and press upon each other, there will be turmoil among the ruler and minister due to treachery; if similar elements overlap and are adjacent, one should be cautious of calamities involving fire and water. When heavenly yang and heavenly yin intersect and cover each other, it indicates that the ruler and minister cannot be harmonious. When divining state or military affairs, one should examine the earthly yin: if the yin covers the yang, it signifies that the minister will harm the ruler, the son will harm the father, and the wife will harm the husband; if the yang covers the yin, it indicates that the ruler will harm the minister, the father will harm the son, and the husband will harm the wife. If there is a heavy yang or heavy yin, it is ominous. During heavy yang, one should be vigilant against fires; during heavy yin, one should be cautious of floods; if there is news of an enemy attack at such times, one must also be prepared to defend.

功曹加甲，陽居日以無憂；旬首承箕，陰在干而逢戰。常以功曹加六甲首，聞賊占，日干上見陽神者賊不來，陰神臨日干者賊必至也。謂寅為箕者，以箕宿在寅也。

Place Gongcao (Yin) on Jia, and if the Day Stem has a Yang spirit, there will be no worries; if the Day Stem has a Yin spirit and the beginning of the ten-day period aligns with the Winnowing Basket mansion, there will be a battle. This method usually involves placing Gongcao on the first day of each ten-day period to start the calculation: when hearing of enemy movements and divining, if the Day Stem shows a Yang spirit, the enemy will not come; if a Yin spirit appears on the Day Stem, the enemy will arrive. The text refers to寅 as 'Ji' because the Winnowing Basket mansion is located in the寅 palace.

大吉反伏，太乙追尋；若臨子午，太沖可任。《玉帳經》云：“大吉為天耳，若反吟、伏吟時占，賊在天盤太乙之下，若臨子午之位，賊在太沖之下。”

When encountering a divination with reverse chant or hidden chant, one should trace the Taiyi from Daji. If Daji is positioned at Zi or Wu, then one may use Taichong to determine the outcome. The "Juyang Jing" states: "Daji (Chou) is the heavenly ear; if reverse chant or hidden chant occurs when setting the course, the enemy is beneath the Heaven Plate Taiyi (Si); if Daji is at Zi or Wu, the enemy is beneath Taichong (Mao)."

巳亥見牛，於星紀而排陣；辰戌遇鬥爭，向營室以加心。斗牛二宿在丑，故名丑為斗牛也。星紀亦丑也。若巳亥上見丑，賊在星紀之下。若辰戌上見丑，賊在天盤亥下伏也。

When the Ox mansion (Chou) appears on the Si and Hai positions, the army should be arranged in the position of the Star Mansion (Xingji); when the Dipper mansion (Dou) is encountered on the Chen and Xu positions, one should be cautious and vigilant towards the direction of Camp Room (Hai). The Dipper and Ox mansions are both located in the Chou palace, so Chou is called the Dipper and Ox; the Star Mansion is also another name for Chou. If the Ox mansion appears on Si and Hai, the enemy is located beneath the Star Mansion; if the Ox mansion appears on Chen and Xu, the enemy is hidden beneath the Heaven Plate's Hai position.

卯酉逢聽，可掩襲於太簇；寅申斗耳，當備戰於實沉。太簇，酉之別名。實沈，申之別名。若大吉加卯、酉之上，賊在天盤酉下伏也。若大吉加寅、申之上，賊在天盤申下伏也。

When there is something heard above the卯 and酉 positions, one should go to the 太簇 (酉) direction to attack secretly. When theDipper mansion and 天耳 meet above the寅 and申 positions, one should prepare for battle at the 实沉 (申) direction. 太簇 is another name for 酉, and 实沈 is another name for 申. If Daji (Chou) (丑) is placed above the卯 or 酉 positions, the enemy will be hidden beneath the Heaven Plate 酉 position. If Daji (Chou) is placed above the寅 or 申 positions, the enemy will be hidden beneath the Heaven Plate 申 position.

神后登明，正時可曉。干見賊多，支逢寇少。聞賊加正時。若亥、子二神臨日，賊多；臨辰，賊少。又游都臨日賊多，臨辰寇少。

Shenhou (Zi) and Dengming (Hai) are two deities. Using the correct hour to cast the divination can clarify their meaning: if they appear on the day stem, there are many enemies; if they appear on the day branch, there are few enemies. When enemy news is heard, use the correct hour to add to the divination. If Hai and Zi appear on the day stem, there are many enemy troops; if they appear on the day branch, there are few enemy troops. Similarly, if Youdu appears on the day stem, there are many enemies; if it appears on the day branch, there are few enemies.

辰加剋日，奇兵應防於陣後。支臨日克干，賊在我後。又云：支其克干，賊必襲後，宜速備之。日覆於辰，銳卒急當於前擾。干加支，賊在我前，又云，干克支，賊當道伏截，宜急備之。又云，天罡辰、太乙巳、大沖卯、神后子四神臨日，賊兵在前；臨辰，賊兵在後。

When the day branch approaches the day stem and overcomes it, one should be cautious of a surprise attack from the rear. If the day branch is above the day stem and overcomes it, the enemy is behind; it is also said that when the day branch overcomes the day stem, the enemy will certainly attack from the rear, and one should be prepared to defend. Conversely, if the day stem is above the day branch, the enemy's elite forces will be in front to harass. When the day stem approaches the day branch, the enemy is in front; it is also said that when the day stem overcomes the day branch, the enemy will set an ambush in the way, and one should be ready to guard against it. There is another saying: if the four divine generals, Tiangang (Chen), Taiyi (Si), Taichong (Mao), and Shenhou (Zi), are above the day stem, the enemy is in front; if they are above the day branch, the enemy is behind.

雀蛇臨日，白勾制而血光；朱雀、螣蛇臨日，必主驚悸也。白虎、勾陳臨日，必傷兵士。虛子軫巳二神，蛇鼠會而賊矯。虛宿在子，軫宿在巳，若二神臨日辰而又剋日辰者，其賊急強，未可攻也。我據險依隘，從太歲備之。

The Vermilion Bird and Teng Snake appearing on the Day Stem indicate fear and alarm; if the White Tiger and Gou Chen come to control and subdue them, there will be bloodshed. When the Vermilion Bird and Teng Snake appear on the Day Stem, it definitely indicates anxiety and restlessness; if the White Tiger and Gou Chen appear on the Day Stem, it will result in injury to soldiers. The deity associated with the Emptiness Mansion is in the Zi position, and the deity associated with the Chariot Mansion is in the Si position. The snake (Si) and the rat (Zi) meet, indicating that the enemy will be arrogant and fierce, difficult to control. The Emptiness Mansion is in the Zi position, and the Chariot Mansion is in the Si position. If these two deities appear on the Day Stem or Day Branch and overcome the Day Stem or Day Branch, it means the enemy is urgent and strong, and it is not advisable to attack rashly. Our side should occupy the narrow passes and defend according to the direction of the Tai Su.

太乙巳罡辰沖，遇必爭先。夜防賊至，兵備宜專。太沖、天罡、太乙三神齊見，謂之三刑。聞賊來占，值巳、辰、卯臨日辰上者，不問克不克，賊必先至。若臨日，則夜有劫營掩襲之患。

Taiyi (Si), Tiangang (Chen), and Taichong (Mao) meet together, indicating the enemy will certainly strike first. Be vigilant at night to prevent enemy troops from arriving; vigilance must be focused and unrelenting. When Taiyi, Tiangang, and Taichong appear together, it is called 'Three Punishments'. If enemy news is consulted and Si, Chen, and Mao are present on the day stem or day branch, whether they are harmonious or conflicting, the enemy will certainly arrive first. If they appear on the day stem, there is a risk of the camp being attacked or ambushed at night.

甲乙聞憂，丙子可除亂寇；庚辛知事，壬癸定破烽煙。假令甲、乙日忽聞賊，或見賊，宜丙、丁、巳、午時，擇吉門而出，必勝；庚、辛日，宜用壬、子、癸、亥時。則吉也。

On days with Jia or Yi as the day stem, if there is news of danger or enemy forces, using hours with Bing or Zi can eliminate the rebels. On days with Geng or Xin as the day stem, if there is news of warfare, using hours with Ren or Gui will surely dispel the smoke of war. For example, if on a Jia or Yi day there is sudden news of enemies or sight of enemy troops, it is advisable to choose hours with Bing, Ding, Si, or Wu, which belong to fire, and select a favorable gate for military action, which will surely lead to victory. On days with Geng or Xin as the day stem, it is advisable to use hours with Ren, Zi, Gui, or Hai, which belong to water, to achieve good fortune. This is still based on the principle of using the子孙 (son and grandson) energy generated by the day stem to suppress the invading enemies.

土木東青，金火南輪兮於夏；甲庚西罹，丙壬北敗兮冬天。此言用兵日與方向。不可太旺與太屈。假如春三月甲乙日，向東方，則太旺，而出兵必課災眚。又如春三月土死，以戊巳日向東行，則受制太過，出兵必遭屈辱。舉此例，五行類推。

On days of Earth element, and days of Wood element, the direction should be east; on days of Metal and Fire elements, the direction should be south in summer. On days of Jia and Geng, facing west will bring misfortune, while on days of Bing and Ren, facing north in winter will lead to defeat. These sentences explain the coordination between the day of military action and the direction faced. It is not advisable to be too strong or too weak. For example, in the first three months of spring, on days of Jia and Yi, advancing eastward for military action is not good, because Wood is already strong in spring, and facing east further enhances its strength, leading to disaster. Another example is that in spring, Earth is in a state of decline, so on days of Wu and Ji, advancing eastward is not advisable, because Earth is heavily restrained by Wood, and facing east further weakens it, leading to humiliation. These two examples serve as a model, and the other Five Phases can be similarly inferred.

貴人舉兵，開地千里；螣蛇出軍，眾心憂畏。太常粗吉，知軍旅之營安；六合尤宜，獲金實之美麗。青龍大勝，得府庫與圖書；朱雀多詞，慮軍戎之見恥。太陰中怯，玄武失物以憂深；天后無威，白虎自敗而禍死。勾陳則戰士折傷，天空乃君臣被毀。

Heavenly Empress initiating the transmission leads to the ability to expand territory over thousands of li; Teng Snake initiating the transmission causes soldiers to be anxious and fearful. Tai Chang initiating the transmission indicates a favorable situation, showing stability within the military camp; Liu He initiating the transmission is especially suitable, leading to the acquisition of gold, silk, and treasures. Azure Dragon initiating the transmission brings great victory, enabling the capture of treasury goods and documents; Vermilion Bird initiating the transmission brings many disputes, requiring caution as the army may suffer disgrace. Tai Yin initiating the transmission results in low morale among soldiers; Black Tortoise initiating the transmission indicates loss of property and deep worries. Heavenly Empress initiating the transmission means the army lacks authority; White Tiger initiating the transmission leads to self-inflicted defeat and casualties. Gou Chen initiating the transmission causes soldiers to suffer injuries; Tian Kong initiating the transmission leads to the ruler and ministers being slandered by others.

此言發用初傳之將所主之吉凶也。用起天乙，出軍，敵人千里畏服。用起螣蛇，主驚駭潰亡之兆。用起太常，主營固而卒安。用起六合，主獲金帛子女之大利，占邦國亦然。用起青龍，必得邦郡圖書、府庫之物，出軍大利。用起朱雀，被蔑毀辱，立見災殃。起太陰，出軍士卒怯弱。起玄武，主軍馬潰失奔潰之禍。起天后，出軍不戰自敗。發用白虎，出軍疾疫喪亡。起勾陳，主敗亡，軍折馬傷。起天空，主出軍被敵欺誆凌辱之事。

The first transmission initiates with the Heavenly General, each indicating different auspicious or inauspicious outcomes. If the initiating transmission begins with Tian Yi, it signifies that the enemy will be frightened and submit even from a distance. If it begins with Teng Snake, it indicates signs of alarm, defeat, and flight. If it begins with Tai Chang, it indicates a secure camp and peaceful soldiers. If it begins with Liu He, it signifies great gain in gold, silk, and children, and similarly for matters concerning states and countries. If it begins with Qing Long, it indicates the acquisition of maps and treasures from states and regions, and is highly advantageous for military campaigns. If it begins with Zhu Que, it indicates being despised, slandered, and humiliated, with calamity immediately following. If it begins with Tai Yin, it indicates weak soldiers in military campaigns. If it begins with Xuan Wu, it indicates the loss and disorder of troops and horses. If it begins with Tian Hou, it indicates defeat without battle. If it begins with Bai Hu, it indicates plague and death in military campaigns. If it begins with Gou Chen, it indicates defeat, loss of soldiers and horses. If it begins with Tian Kong, it indicates being deceived and insulted by the enemy during military campaigns.

空亡失眾，傳逢不利。初傳雖吉，中未見空亡者，出師不利。天罡加巳，行者獲全；縱橫建午，坐帳調琴。此下七節言天罡所指之吉凶也。天罡指巳，為天地所初開時，出軍開地千里，大勝也。加午為縱橫，坐帳不出，宜安樂而備兵也。

If the Three Transmissions encounter Kongwang, there will be loss of people and affairs will not go smoothly. Even if the First Transmission is favorable, if the Middle Transmission and Final Transmission meet Kongwang, the military expedition will still be unfavorable. If Tiangang falls on Si, those who travel will be safe; if Tiangang is on Wu, it is a time of纵横, suitable only for sitting in the tent playing the zither. The following seven sections all discuss the auspiciousness or inauspiciousness indicated by Tiangang. When Tiangang points to Si, it is the beginning of the creation of heaven and earth, and the army can expand territory thousands of li and achieve great victory. When Tiangang is on Wu, it is called纵横, suitable only for staying in the tent, being at ease, and secretly preparing the army.

指未必通，謂聲名之著顯；向申地迫，言災禍以彌深。加未，天道小吉時，可以出軍也。加申，天地小爭時，又為地迫時，不可出軍，避之則吉。

Tiangang points to Wei, indicating smooth travel and a sign of fame and recognition; Tiangang facing Shen signifies a time of earth pressure, meaning calamities will become more severe. When Tiangang is combined with Wei, it is during the time of minor auspiciousness in the heavenly way, and it is appropriate to march out with troops. When Tiangang is combined with Shen, it is a time of minor conflict between heaven and earth, also called a time of earth pressure, and it is not advisable to march out with troops; avoiding is auspicious.

直酉西方，地閉而車折馬死；返來戌上，人乖而將殞兵沉。加酉為天地關格時，不可出師，必有隔絕、人馬鬥傷之患。加戌為天地反吟時，不可出軍，乃君臣相隔、父子相違、夫婦相別、奴婢背主之時，主士卒凶傷禍敗也。

The Tiangang is at the western You position, where the earth energy is blocked, causing vehicles to break and horses to die. When Tiangang returns to Xu, people's hearts become estranged, generals die, and soldiers drown. When Tiangang is at You, it is a time of heavenly and earthly obstruction, making military campaigns impossible, with inevitable obstacles and injuries to people and horses. When Tiangang is at Xu, it is a time of reverse chant, also making military campaigns impossible, as it is a time when sovereign and minister are separated, father and son are at odds, husband and wife are apart, and servants betray their masters. In such times, soldiers suffer injuries and the army suffers defeat.

亥上見之，天窄而傷人驚怖；子邊見也，地逼而半路難居。加亥為天窄時，加子為地逼時，俱不宜出軍，主半路恍惚不安。

Tiangang appears on Hai, indicating a time of narrow heaven, causing harm to people and inducing fear; when it appears on Zi, it signifies a time of forced earth, making it difficult to settle down halfway. Tiangang combined with Hai is called the time of narrow heaven, and combined with Zi is called the time of forced earth. In both cases, it is not advisable to mobilize troops, as they will experience confusion and unease halfway.

丑向途通，三十里宿；來晨任意，神功潛助。每臨寅上，龍見天乙以情通；若到卯中，天地塞閉而氣換。加丑為天地小通時，出軍三十里，來晨任意前行。指寅為天地獨通時，遇天乙尤吉。加卯為天地閉塞不通時，宜藏避。

Tiangang is at Chou, indicating smooth travel; after traveling thirty li, one may camp. On the next morning, one may proceed freely, with divine assistance secretly aiding. When Tiangang arrives at Yin, the Azure Dragon and Tianyi meet, leading to smooth circumstances; if it reaches Mao, the heavens and earth become blocked, and the situation changes. When Tiangang is at Chou, it is a time of minor communication between heaven and earth; when marching, travel thirty li and camp the next morning. When Tiangang points to Yin, it is a time of complete communication between heaven and earth; if Tianyi and Nobleman are also present, it is especially auspicious. When Tiangang is at Mao, it is a time of blocked communication between heaven and earth, and it is suitable to hide and avoid.

伏吟辰地，關梁閉塞以難通。若守城營，客將憂疑而自縮。指辰為天地伏吟時，亦為天地閉塞，利以守己。若堅城守營，賊將自遁，不可出軍遠行也。

The Tiangang is in a hidden chant and returns to its original position at Chen, causing the key pass to be blocked and difficult to pass through. If our side坚守 the city and camp, the invading enemy will become doubtful and retreat. When the Tiangang points to Chen, it signifies that heaven and earth are in a hidden chant, and the heavens and earth are closed off, which is favorable for defense. As long as we strengthen the city and hold the camp firmly, the enemy general will naturally retreat, and we must not send out troops for long journeys.

猝逢賊將，方處占求；強兵神后，步卒牽牛。此下四節，以來方而占賊也。見賊加正時，看方上之神。神后，子也。若方上見子，賊從其下來者，賊將先來，必為輕騎。方上見大吉，賊從其下來者，其將堅強也。

In a hurried situation encountering an enemy general, one should set up the divination based on the direction from which the enemy comes. If the direction shows Shenhou (Zi), it indicates strong troops are coming; if it shows Chou (Tian Niu), it indicates infantry are coming. The following four sections all involve divining the enemy's situation based on the direction from which they approach. When seeing the enemy, use the correct time to set up the divination and check which deity is present in that direction. Shenhou corresponds to Zi; if the direction shows Zi, the enemy approaches from below, meaning the general will arrive first, and they are definitely light cavalry. If the direction shows Daji (Chou), the enemy approaches from below, indicating the general is strong.

猛見功曹寅，車騎長槍於兔腹卯；急旗角亢辰，衛兵變陣於龍頭巳。賊從功曹下來，其將猛，其士健。兔即卯也，賊從太沖下來，其兵精，器械且利。角亢，辰也，天罡也，賊從其下來，必有伏兵急速也。太乙名龍頭，即巳也，賊從其下來。其兵善能進退，變化陣形，故名衛兵，它謹速之。

The direction of Gongcao (Yin) indicates an enemy general who is brave and fierce; the direction of Tu Fu (Mao) indicates enemy forces arriving with chariots and long spears; the direction of Jiao Kang (Chen) indicates urgent banners and signals; the direction of Long Tou (Si) indicates soldiers skilled in changing formations, known as guards. If the enemy comes from beneath Gongcao, the general is brave and the soldiers are strong. Tu Fu is Mao, so if the enemy comes from beneath Taichong, their troops are well-disciplined and their weapons are sharp. Jiao and Kang are in Chen, which is Tiangang, so if the enemy comes from beneath it, they must have hidden troops and move quickly. Taiyi is also called Long Tou, which is Si, so if the enemy comes from beneath it, their army is skilled in advancing and retreating and changing formations, hence called guards. One must be especially cautious and respond swiftly to them.

馬隊勝光，大將秦宮未而坐用。驍從傳送申，明天趙次酉以箕籌。賊從勝光下來，其將武勇，或軍士眾，當以奇兵以待之。賊小吉下來，其兵勝而強。賊從傳送下來，其賊勇銳。酉為趙分，賊從其下來，其賊能知天道，有謀略。

The direction of Shengguang (Wu) indicates a cavalry force is approaching; the direction of Qin Palace (Wei) suggests a general is stationed and directing operations. The direction of Chuansong (Shen) indicates a fierce and capable unit is coming; the direction of Zhao territory (You) suggests the enemy is someone who understands the heavens and is skilled in planning. If the enemy comes from beneath Shengguang, the commander is brave and martial, or the troops are numerous, and one should use a surprise attack. If the enemy comes from beneath Xiaoji (Wei), their forces are strong and powerful. If the enemy comes from beneath Chuansong (Shen), that enemy force is brave and elite. You is the direction of Zhao, and if the enemy comes from beneath You, the enemy understands heavenly principles and is strategic.

天魁戌猛壯而難擊。登明亥突急而莫留。賊從戌下來，其賊將士猛壯精銳，不可輕擊也。賊從亥下來，多有突急銳兵或奇伏之卒也。

The direction of Tiankui (Xu) indicates that the enemy is strong and powerful, difficult to defeat; the direction of Dengming (Hai) indicates that the enemy advances suddenly and urgently, and should not be engaged for long. If the enemy comes from beneath Xu, their soldiers are strong, sharp, and elite, and should not be attacked lightly. If the enemy comes from beneath Hai, they are likely to have sudden attackers or hidden troops waiting in ambush.

象色天機，金來火應。兵戈相入，勾陳是刑。賊從申上來，我以赤旗、銳陣應之。四方皆仿此。勾陳臨日，兩軍合陣以爭雄；井斗來臨，彼此收戈而息怒。假令申酉為勾陳，臨甲日之上，為刑，金克甲，必戰。加仲神在門，兩傷；加季神在外，必有大戰。若大、小吉臨甲日，兵自兩解而不戰。井，小吉；斗，大吉也。

The form and color of banners contain hidden heavenly signs: if the enemy belongs to the metal element and attacks, I will use a banner of the fire element to respond. If the enemy comes from the position of Shen, I will use red banners and a sharp formation to counter, and similarly for the other directions. Whether or not weapons will be used depends on whether Gou Chen brings a刑 (crime or punishment). If Gou Chen is positioned on the day stem, the two armies will line up for battle; if Jing Su and Dou Xu arrive, both sides will instead cease fighting and calm down. For example, if Shen and You are occupied by Gou Chen, and it is on the day of Jia, forming a刑, the metal will overcome Jia (wood), and a battle is certain. If Gou Chen is added to the four central deities and the main gate position, both sides will suffer damage; if it is added to the four seasonal deities and is at the outer position, there will definitely be a great battle. If Daji (Chou) and Xiaoji (Wei) are on the day of Jia, the armies will naturally stop fighting without engaging. The term "Jing" refers to Xiaoji (Wei), and "Dou" refers to Daji (Chou).

年逢六害，凶神必並於外傷；若主將本命、行年上見六害、更與凶將並，主凶敗。或剋日，大凶。日值孤雄，吉將堪逢於陣擊。孤者，太歲、月建後二辰是也。虛者，孤之對沖也。如正月子孤、午虛之類。用兵皆當背孤擊虛。雄者，春寅、夏巳、秋申、冬亥，用兵皆當背雄擊雌，雌者，雄之沖也。若孤神與戰雄臨將之行年、本命、辰之上者，必得大勝。

When the six harmful influences appear in the year pillar, if there are also evil spirits present, external harm is inevitable. If the general's true birth and year pillar both encounter the six harmful influences, and they are in the same position as evil generals, it indicates danger and defeat. If these also overcome the day stem, it is extremely dangerous. If the day branch is in the position of 'solitude' or 'strength', and is accompanied by auspicious generals, then the army can be arranged for attack. 'Solitude' refers to the second heavenly stem after the year's stem; 'void' is the opposite position of solitude, for example, in the first month, the stem Zi is solitude and the stem Wu is void. In military operations, one should attack the void position while facing away from the solitude position. 'Strength' refers to the stems Yin in spring, Si in summer, Shen in autumn, and Hai in winter. In military operations, one should attack the opposite position of strength while facing away from the strength position. If the solitude spirit and the strength position both appear in the general's year pillar, true birth, or day branch, great victory is certain.

官軍欲勝，勾制玄都。勾陳若制玄武、游都者，出軍必勝。主將年上神克白虎、玄武所乘神亦勝。若三傳中將得六合、青龍、太陰、太禽，及在將軍年命上更乘旺氣者，必大勝。又玄武陷死囚之地，亦勝。若玄武臨日辰，遙克時上勾陳，必敗。天乙、勾陳所乘神克游都者勝。

The official army wishes to win, so the Gou Chen must control the Xuan Wu and You Du. If Gou Chen can subdue Xuan Wu and You Du, the army will certainly win. If the general's year stem can overcome the White Tiger and the Xuan Wu's riding god, it also indicates a victory. If among the three transmissions there are the Liu He, Qing Long, Tai Yin, and Tai Qin, these auspicious generals, and they fall on the general's year stem and ride on strong energy, there will certainly be a great victory. If the Xuan Wu is in a state of death, imprisonment, or no energy, it also indicates a victory. Conversely, if the Xuan Wu is on the day stem and day branch, and it remotely overcomes the Gou Chen at the time, then defeat is certain. If the Tian Yi and Gou Chen's riding god can overcome You Du, it indicates a victory.

損支主敗，傷干客輸。正時占，干上神遙克支上神，或干克支。及上克下，皆為主敗。若支上神克干上神，或支克干，或下克上，皆為主勝。

If the day branch is damaged, the host side will lose; if the day stem is damaged, the guest side will lose. Using the correct time to cast the divination: if the god on the day stem remotely controls the god on the day branch, or if the day stem controls the day branch, or if the upper god controls the lower god, these situations indicate the host side losing. Conversely, if the god on the day branch controls the god on the day stem, or if the day branch controls the day stem, or if the lower god controls the upper god, these situations indicate the host side winning.

欲掠他鄉，戊己須逢于吉將；欲潛兵劫掠，視天盤、地盤二處戊、己位，逢吉將，出掠有功。假令甲子旬中以辰、巳為戊、己，上下皆為吉將，必然大獲。

If one intends to go elsewhere for plundering, the positions where Wu and Ji are located must meet a favorable general. To secretly send troops for plundering, one should look at the positions of Wu and Ji on the Heaven Plate and Earth Plate. If a favorable general is present there, the expedition for plundering will surely be successful. For example, in the first decade of Jiazi, according to the method of hidden stems, Chen is paired with Wu and Si is paired with Ji. If these two positions are both occupied by favorable generals, there will certainly be great success.

前三後二，私門禁戶以相扶。前三，六合也。後二，太陰也。若卯、酉乘之謂之私門。禁戶有四，除、定、危、開是也，得太常、青龍、太陰、六合乘之，出兵深入，如蹈無入之境。入水不溺，入兵不傷，天佑之福也。

The nobleman, the third position ahead, and the second position behind are places where private doors and restricted gates mutually support each other. The first three positions are Liu He, and the last two are Tai Yin; if they are carried by卯 and酉, they are called 'private doors'. The restricted gates have four positions: 除, 定, 危, and 开. If Tai Chang, Azure Dragon, Tai Yin, and Liu He are also present, then when sending troops deep into enemy territory, it is as if entering an uninhabited place. One will not drown when going downstream, and will not be injured by soldiers, which is a blessing from heaven.

三路迷心、時下罡隨於孟仲；兩歧惑應，日辰左右以規謀。路逢三叉之道，欲知何道吉，正時占。天罡加孟，左道通；加季，右道通；加仲，中道通。此下出軍大捷，所求必遂。若逢兩歧路，日干吉者，左道通；支吉者，右道通也。

When facing three paths and feeling confused, look at the position of the Tiangang at the time of divination; if it is in the first position (Clan), then the left path is favorable; if it is in the fourth position (Season), then the right path is favorable; if it is in the middle position (Middle), then the central path is favorable. Following this method, military campaigns will surely achieve great victories, and all desired matters will certainly come to pass. If encountering two paths, choose the left path if the Day Stem is favorable, and the right path if the Day Branch is favorable.

欲渡河江，支傷莫人。卯辰及酉，井泉須知。壬亥子兼癸丑，天河覆井以沉波。更忌罡沖，太歲遭虛而禍急。欲渡江河，正時占，支傷則水路不宜行也。卯、辰、酉為地之三井，壬、子、癸為天之三河。正時占，天河加臨地之井者，主有覆溺之危，不可渡也。若見太沖、天罡加支干，必有風濤之惡。神后加太歲之上，主行船有沒溺之災。

If one wishes to cross a river, one should not go into the water if the day branch is injured. The hours of卯, 辰, and 酉 are the three wells on the ground, which should be remembered; the hours of壬, 子, and 癸 are the three rivers in the sky. If the heavenly river covers the ground wells, the boat will be in danger of capsizing and drowning. One should also avoid the conflict of Taichong (Mao) and Tiangang (Chen). If the master year meets an empty position, disaster will come quickly. When crossing a river, use the correct hour to cast the divination. If the heavenly river is placed over the ground well, it indicates danger of capsizing and drowning, and crossing is not advisable. If Taichong (Mao) and Tiangang (Chen) are placed on the day stem and day branch, there will certainly be bad winds and waves on the way. If Shenhou (Zi) (子) is placed on the master year, it indicates danger of the boat sinking.