The method of quickly determining the appearance of the navel.

公篤曰：臍者太極之別名，先天之氣管，如瓜之有蒂也。形成於腹，而似太極圖之形式。下名丹田，男子之氣海，女子之血海，內通腎絡，而交督脈。凡嬰兒受胎，先有此根蒂，然後化形質，即天一生水之義也。故下名太極盒，而為純陽之處。兩側為仰月痕，即月之左上弦右下弦也。上為覆月盎，而為純陰之處。中有凹肉兩突，即陰陽交姤之點，故名兩儀胎也。兩側有紋痕小點，名群星垣，即化生萬物之義。其形雖小，儼然一渾天儀也。

Chen Gongdu said: The navel is called the "Taiji" or the "Great Ultimate," and it is the entrance and exit for the primordial qi of the Earlier Heaven. It is like the stem of a fruit. It is located on the abdomen, and its shape resembles the Taiji diagram. Below the navel is called the "Dantian," which in men is called the "Qi Hai" or "Sea of Qi," and in women is called the "Xue Hai" or "Sea of Blood." It connects inwardly with the meridians of the kidneys and intersects with the Du meridian. When a fetus develops in the mother's womb, it first forms this stem, and then the body and flesh are generated from it, which is exactly the principle of "Heaven gives birth to water" in the Zhouyi. Therefore, the area below the navel is also called the "Taiji Box," which is the place of pure yang. The curved marks on both sides of the navel are called the "Yang Yue Heng," resembling the upper left and lower right crescent moons. The raised part above the navel is called the "Fu Yue Ang," which is the place of pure yin. The concave area in the center of the navel has two slightly raised soft pieces of flesh, which are the meeting point of yin and yang, so they are called the "Liang Yi Tai" or "Two Principles Embryo." The fine lines and small dots spread on both sides of the navel are called the "Qun Xing Yuan," symbolizing the generation of all things in the universe. Although the navel is small in form, it is actually a miniature celestial sphere, containing the images of heaven and earth, yin and yang, and the stars.

是以臍喧深大而有勢，主仁慈而大量，能容物也。宜高起而上仰，主清高而智敏，享盛名也。不宜平滿及凸突，主貧賤而勞舌，刑剋而夭亡也。古法謂能納李者，主貴名流芳，具上智而能發展也，亦多子女，而紹箕裘也。兩角上仰，主敏慧好學，貴名有為，亦旺子女，及身後之事業也。四維有蛛蛛紋，主一奇貴，盛世多文貴廰道之職，亂世多武貴師旅之權，女格則子女多而貴顯也。又有五行紋，周維五根紋痕是也，亦主武貴，今世可至師旅，及邊將之鎮守，臨險而發達，因禍而為福也。

Therefore, a broad, deep, wide, and impressive navel indicates a person who is kind and of great capacity, able to accommodate people and affairs. The opening of the navel should be slightly raised and facing upward, indicating a person who is refined and of quick mind, capable of achieving great fame. It is most undesirable for the navel to be flat or protruding outward, which signifies poverty and low status, much verbal labor, and the suffering of family members and a short lifespan. Ancient physiognomy says that if the navel is deep enough to hold a plum, it indicates a person who will achieve fame and be remembered by future generations, possessing superior wisdom and career success, with many children who can inherit the family business. If the two sides of the navel are raised upward, the person is intelligent and studious, with noble status and achievements, also benefiting children and leaving behind a legacy. If there are web-like patterns around the navel, it indicates a special noble destiny: in times of peace, such a person is likely to hold high-ranking civil posts, such as those of hall or provincial governor; in times of chaos, they are likely to hold high-ranking military posts, commanding a regiment or a group of soldiers. For women, this feature indicates many children who will achieve success. Another type is the 'Five Elements Pattern,' where there are five lines around the navel. This also indicates a noble military destiny, and such people may attain the rank of regimental commander or a general defending the borders in modern times. These individuals often achieve success in critical situations, turning misfortune into good fortune.

凡平滿小者，主子女不力，或忤逆，刑剋最重，衣食不充也。兩角下反者，主愚魯而任性，破敗而刑剋，好酒戀色，有偏嗜也。最低下者，主淫賤而笨拙。加以多粗毛，主淫亂而急燥，男女皆然。偏左者，先妨父宮，女倍於子；偏右者，先妨母官，子倍於女，男女亦同也。

If the navel is flat, full, and narrow, it indicates that children will be unhelpful, possibly rebellious and unfilial, with the most severe punishments and hardships in life, and insufficient food and clothing. If the two corners of the navel turn downward, the person is likely foolish and impulsive, with family decline and serious punishments affecting relatives, and a tendency to indulge in alcohol and lust, with obsessive habits. If the navel is positioned very low, it suggests a tendency towards immorality and clumsiness; if there is also thick, coarse hair around the navel, it indicates promiscuity and a quick temper, which applies to both men and women. If the navel is tilted to the left, it first harms the father's position and causes more harm to daughters than sons; if the navel is tilted to the right, it first harms the mother's position and causes more harm to sons than daughters, and this applies to both men and women.

公篤曰：肩者，輔佐之一小部，於關係頗輕，分數又少，然亦有一線關係，茲特錄之。凡男女之肩部，均宜平厚有勢為吉，主厚祿而多福。男子肩尖聳，主惡疾而孤苦，勞碌而驚惶，一生無平安之福也。惟火形不忌肩聳，反貴至將相而成功，然亦勞碌走險，唐代之馬周、宋代之寇準是也。女子肩聳，主刑夫而心毒，量狹而氣燥，亦有生離再嫁，或主惡病夭亡。男子肩下削，主百事不成，寒苦度日；女於肩下削，主刑夫克子，淫亂凶死，惟貧賤之人，能善終也。故有美女無肩，尤將軍無項之說也。

Chen Gongdu said: In physiognomy, the shoulders are merely an auxiliary part, with a relatively minor relationship and a small score. However, since there is still some connection, it is specially recorded. For both men and women, flat, solid, and strong shoulders are considered auspicious, indicating wealth and honor. Men with sharp, high shoulders are prone to illness and loneliness, a life of toil and anxiety, and unable to enjoy peace. However, those with a "fire form" are not discouraged from having high shoulders; instead, they may achieve high official positions and great achievements, though they also face hardship and risk. Examples from the Tang Dynasty's Ma Zhou and the Song Dynasty's Kou Zhun: both came from humble backgrounds and rose to high office through extraordinary luck and courage. Women with high shoulders are likely to harm their husbands, be cruel-hearted, have narrow minds, and be easily agitated. They may also experience separation from their husbands, remarry, or suffer from illness and die young. Men with sloping shoulders are likely to achieve nothing in life, living a life of hardship. Women with sloping shoulders are likely to harm their husbands and children, be promiscuous, and die an unhappy death. However, those who are already poor and lowly may live a peaceful old age. Therefore, physiognomy says, "A beautiful woman has no shoulders, and a general has no neck," meaning that a beautiful woman's shoulders should be sloping and gentle, while a fierce general has a short, thick neck that is not visible.

公篤曰：乳有七竅，為先天之祖氣，子女之命宮，精血會聚之所。故人初生，奈以此養成，呼吸之氣管，肝腎二絡占多數。醫家治乳痊，分內吹外吹，亦以平肝和腎為主方，於女格關係尤重要焉。大體以乳頭黑實者為吉，主有子女，而壽徵也。乳頭側有痣，主子女聰敏，及貴能而有為也。乳頭仰上者，主多子女，及有恆而立業也。乳頭堅硬者，主有壽根，及有祿而多子也。乳頭朝下者，主子女弱，及多憂而疾病也。乳頭平軟者，主多疾厄，及刑傷而急燥也。乳頭紅嫩者，多為傭僕，及刑剋而不壽也。

Chen Gongdu said: There are seven openings in the breast, which are the dwelling place of the primordial qi from the Earlier Heaven, and they are the palace governing children. They are also where the essence and blood converge. At birth, a person relies entirely on breast milk for growth. The breast is also connected to the airway for breathing, and in terms of meridians, the liver and kidney meridians have the greatest influence. Physicians treat breast abscesses, distinguishing between "internal blow" (which occurs during pregnancy) and "external blow" (which occurs during lactation), and their treatments mainly focus on calming the liver and harmonizing the kidney. This shows that the breast is especially important for women. In general, a black and firm nipple is auspicious, indicating many children and longevity. A mole near the nipple suggests intelligent and quick children, as well as a distinguished and capable person. A nipple that is upright indicates many children and a person with perseverance who can establish a career. A firm nipple indicates a solid lifespan, with both blessings and many descendants. A downward hanging nipple indicates weak children and a person who is often troubled and suffers from illness. A flat and soft nipple indicates many misfortunes, along with injuries and a quick temper. A red and tender nipple usually indicates a life as a servant or laborer, with the potential to harm relatives and a short lifespan.

乳毫以一二三根為吉，主性平和而子女勤能；毫多而粗者，主性剛燥而子女愚拙。又有四乳者，男主貴而智勇，多好酒貪淫也；女主壽而子貴，多刑夫星也。又有三乳者，主有刑剋而貴祿也。男王偏嗜好淫，亦有專長一能以成名；女主靈巧性燥，亦有刑夫教子以宏恢，此奇相之一也。

The fine hairs on the areola, if one, two, or three in number, indicate a gentle disposition and diligent, capable children. If the hairs are numerous and thick, it suggests a fiery and impetuous temperament with dull-witted children. There are also those with four nipples: for men, this signifies high status and intelligence, strength, but a tendency towards excessive drinking and indulgence in lust; for women, it indicates longevity and children who attain high status, though the fate is marked by a star that brings marital troubles. There are also those with three nipples, indicating though there may be some hardships, one can still attain honor and official rank: for men, they tend to be stubborn and lustful, but often possess a particular skill that leads to fame; for women, they are clever but impetuous in temperament, and often, after experiencing marital difficulties, they raise their children alone and build up the family's reputation. These all belong to one of the extraordinary physical characteristics.

公篤曰：腋毛在肩井之下，夾窩之間，內為肺絡之正繫，亦有重要關係。余考男子無腋毛，主凶死者十居其七，憂愁剛燥而死者十居其三。有腋毛而粗濃者，主急燥而恃勇，多勞而反覆；有腋毛而柔細者，主聰敏而謹慎，清閒而平安。

Chen Gongdu said: Armpit hair grows below the "Jianjing acupoint" and between the armpits, connecting inwardly to the main channel of the lung meridian, so there is an important relationship in physiognomy. From my years of observation, among men without armpit hair, seven out of ten die an untimely death, and the other three die from worry and depression or from being impetuous and fierce in temperament. Those with thick and coarse armpit hair are characterized by impatience, overconfidence in strength, and a life full of toil with affairs that are often repeated. Those with soft and fine armpit hair are intelligent and quick-witted, cautious in handling affairs, and lead a peaceful and tranquil life.

女子無腋毛，富貴者，主淫亂而私奔，以致喪節敗名，服毒自剔；貧賤者主流落而無依，以致痼疾困苦，終身遺恨。女子有腋毛而粗濃者，主性偏僻而急燥，刑夫再嫁，次亦孤宿守寡。女子有腋毛而狐臭，主淫亂下賤，三嫁末休，次亦刑剋勞苦，惡病不已。女子有腋毛而柔細者，主和順而賢淑，旺夫而多祿。女子有腋毛而汗香者，主大貴而子女亦貴，性明敏而賢良，古人選妃之定法也。

A woman without armpit hair is indicative of someone born into wealth and privilege, yet her behavior tends to be licentious and she may run away with another man, thus losing her virtue and reputation, eventually leading to suicide by poison. If she comes from a poor and humble background, she will live a life of wandering and destitution, suffering from chronic illness, poverty, and lifelong regret. A woman with thick and coarse armpit hair indicates a stubborn and irritable nature, leading to conflicts with her husband and eventual remarriage, or at best, being a widow alone. A woman with armpit hair accompanied by body odor indicates a licentious and low character, marrying three times without stability, or at best, causing harm to relatives and enduring a life of hardship and frequent illness. A woman with soft and dense armpit hair indicates a gentle and virtuous nature, bringing prosperity and blessings to her husband, and enjoying a wealthy and fortunate life. A woman with armpit hair whose sweat has a pleasant fragrance indicates a noble birth, with children also of high status, a sharp and virtuous character—this is precisely the method ancient people used to select concubines.

公篤曰：玉莖者，靈龜也，五行屬水，五臟屬腎，子女之根源，人類之關鍵，亦有考查之必要。一呼下陰，一呼陽物，實外陽而內陰也。離中之精，化而為汞，是為太極之　，故俗名極　也。茲將各類分別錄後。一．紅實：紅實者，稟受之氣清也。其先天之靈根不同，父母之環境安好，主妻妾賢淑而和順，又能操持助夫，以立業也；子女得力，以發達也。二．自瑩：白瑩者，氣清而根厚也。有離奇之思想，智敏之有恆，子女多而成立，為成而宏恢也。

Chen Gongdu said: "The 'Yu Jing' is also called 'Ling Gui,' belonging to the Water element in the Five Phases and to the Kidney in the five viscera. It is the source of children and the key to human reproduction, so it is worth examining. It is commonly called 'Xia Yin' or 'Yang Wu.' In fact, its outer form is yang, but its inner nature is yin. According to the Daoist alchemy tradition, the single point in the middle line of the Li trigram represents true essence transformed into mercury, which is the 'Ji Mou' (the original text has a missing character here). Therefore, it is also commonly called 'Ji Mou' (with the same missing character). Below is a classification of various shapes. The first category is 'Hong Shi': 'Hong Shi' refers to those who inherit pure先天 qi. Such people have a different spiritual root from ordinary people, and their family background is stable and prosperous. They are blessed with virtuous and harmonious wives and concubines who can manage the household and assist their husbands in achieving success. Their children are also capable, and they can prosper through their children. The second category is 'Bai Ying' (the original title was 'Zi Ying,' with 'Zi' being a mistake for 'Bai'): 'Bai Ying' refers to those with clear qi and solid foundation. Such people often have unique and innovative ideas, are quick-witted and persistent. They have many children, and all of them can establish families and achieve success, thus bringing glory to their family."

三．活龜：活龜者，能屈能伸，而有收藏性也。其人聰敏靈巧，具有遠大眼光，剛正不屈，貴名有成，技藝廣譽，又多子女，而有厚祿，次亦是衣食而完善也。四．死龜：死龜者，大而不收藏，如已死龜頭也。此為下賤之人，勞苦之相，應船伕水手、肩挑背磨也。

The third type is called "Living Turtle": A Living Turtle is one that can bend and stretch, and can hide itself when needed. Such people are intelligent and resourceful, with a long-term vision, and are upright and unbending. They can achieve a distinguished reputation and their skills are widely praised. They have many children and enjoy abundant blessings and prosperity. Those of a slightly lower rank still have sufficient food and clothing and a comfortable life. The fourth type is called "Dead Turtle": A Dead Turtle is one that, although large in form, cannot hide itself, resembling a dead turtle's head that is soft and exposed. This is the appearance of a lowly person and someone who toils hard. Such people are typically found among boatmen, sailors, and laborers who carry heavy loads on their backs.

五．囊紋：囊紋者，腎囊多皺紋，如核桃米也。其紋多者，主享大壽；其痕皺露者，主聰慧而特智；其紋痕少者，主才智短而壽弱；無紋痕者，不夭亡則孤苦也。六．熱精：熱精者，其精熱而濃也。此為應有關係，主有子女也，愈熱而子女愈多，無疾而易養也。

The fifth category is "Nangwen" (testicular texture): Nangwen refers to the dense network of wrinkles on the scrotum, resembling the surface of a walnut. Those with many wrinkles are destined for a long life; those with deep and prominent wrinkles are intelligent and have superior mental abilities; those with few wrinkles are short-sighted and have a short lifespan; and those with no wrinkles at all are either doomed to die young or to live a lonely life. The sixth category is "Rejing" (warm semen): Rejing refers to semen that is warm and thick. This is the normal condition, indicating the ability to have children. The warmer and thicker the semen, the more children one will have, and the children will be less prone to illness and easier to raise.

七．冷精：冷精者，其精冷而烯也。此為反常關係，主無子女也，是名孤刑，及不壽也。如稍冷者，亦有子，多疾厄，而不易養成也。八．獨腎：獨腎者，一個腎子也。主宏恢而富業，多進田宅；又主弟兄和睦，內顧無憂，妻妾才能，內助有力，子女少而壽微弱也。

The seventh category is "Cold Essence": Cold Essence refers to seminal fluid that is cold and thin. This is an abnormal condition, indicating no children and a fate known as "Orphan Punishment," and the person's lifespan is also short. If it is only slightly cool, one can still have children, but the children are prone to illness and difficult to raise. The eighth category is "Single Kidney": Single Kidney refers to having only one testicle. This condition indicates the ability to expand one's fortune and become wealthy, with continuous additions to land and property; it also signifies harmonious brothers, no worries at home, capable wives and concubines who are helpful; however, there are few children, and the person's lifespan is somewhat shortened.

公篤曰：牝戶者，即生殖器是也。坎中之精，丹中之鉛，外陰而內陽，關係子女之重要部位也。又關人名譽氣節，是為貴賤之門，亦平生之志也，茲故錄之。一．黃毛：黃毛者，牝戶之毛，黃如金絲也。主大貴而聰敏，剛復而恃才，及淫而有壽，毒而驕傲，漢呂后有之，貴為帝后也。

Chen Gongdu said: "The 'Pine Gate' refers to the female genitalia. According to the principles of alchemy, it is the true essence of the middle line of the Kan trigram, known in alchemy as 'lead.' Its external form is yin but its internal nature is yang, and it is a vital part related to the continuation of offspring. It also concerns a person's reputation and integrity, serving as the gate that distinguishes between nobility and commonness. It is also connected to a woman's lifelong virtue, hence the special record. The first category is 'Yellow Hair.'所谓 Yellow Hair refers to pubic hair that is yellow and resembles golden threads. This characteristic indicates great wealth and intelligence, a stubborn and self-confident nature, combined with strong sexual desire and a long lifespan, along with a cruel and arrogant disposition. Empress Lu of the Han dynasty had this characteristic, becoming so esteemed that she became empress and ruled the court in her husband's place."

二．紅毛：紅毛者，牝戶之毛，紅鮮而如珠砂也。主大貴而淫亂，及不善終。性情窄狹而急燥，明敏而偏見，任性而嫉才，唐楊貴妃有之。三．暗滯：暗滯者，灰睛滯手而不潤也。主貧苦下賤，刑夫克子，本身勞碌，而多遺累，及牽制也。

The second type, "Hong Mao" (Red Hair):the so-called Hong Mao refers to pubic hair that is bright red like cinnabar. This appearance indicates great wealth but also promiscuity, leading to an unfortunate end. The person is narrow-minded and impetuous, intelligent and quick-witted yet prone to holding strong prejudices, being任性 (arbitrary) and jealous of talented people. Yang Guifei of the Tang Dynasty was of this type. The third type, "An Zhi" (Dark and Stagnant):the so-called An Zhi refers to the skin color of the genital area being dark and dull, feeling dry and rough to the touch. This appearance indicates a life of poverty and low status, causing harm to husband and children, constant toil, and being burdened by many troubles, with constant restrictions in all aspects.

四．拳珠：拳珠者，陰毛曲捲如珠也。主大貴而操國柄，英明過人，志向遠大，剛腹自用，才智絕倫，為女中之傑，大周武后有之，亦主淫而有壽也。五．柔細：柔細者，牝戶之毛，柔細清潤也。主賢淑而和蘊，慈良而才能，助夫旺子，今世亦有貴名，而占政治地位者，多才智勇為，而又貞靜也。

The fourth type, "Quanzhu," refers to pubic hair that is curled into small bead-like shapes. This appearance indicates great wealth and the ability to hold power, being exceptionally wise, having lofty aspirations, and being stubborn and self-willed (the original text mistakenly says "gangfu" instead of "gangbi"), with outstanding intelligence, making her a heroine among women. Wu Zetian of the Wu Zhou dynasty was of this type. This appearance also signifies strong sexual desire and a long life. The fifth type, "Rouxie," refers to pubic hair that is soft, fine, and clean and moist. This appearance indicates a virtuous and gentle nature, being kind and benevolent with ability, capable of supporting her husband and benefiting her children. In modern times, women of this type may achieve fame and enter politics, usually being intelligent, bold, and courageous, while maintaining chastity and self-discipline in private life.

六．粗濃：粗濃者，牝戶之毛，粗而濃多也。主壽而好淫，旺子女而刑夫，有再嫁三嫁者，稟受之氣粗濁故也，亦有貞操而刑夫者，孤房獨宿也。七．不樹：不樹者，牝戶完全無毛也。主淫亂居多數，不壽居少數，又主貧賤居多數，富貴而有缺點居少數。凡無毛者，皆有偏僻窄狹之怪異性情也。

The sixth category is "Coarse and Dense": This refers to coarse and thick pubic hair. This characteristic indicates a long life but a tendency towards lustfulness, with many children but often causing harm to the husband. Some may remarry two or three times, due to the coarse and turbid nature inherited. There are also those who remain chaste yet still cause harm to their husbands, in which case they may live alone. The seventh category is "No Hair": This refers to the absence of pubic hair. Such people are mostly promiscuous and often have short lifespans; most are poor and lowly, while a few may attain wealth and status but always have some defects. Those who have no hair tend to have stubborn, narrow-minded, and peculiar personalities.

八．挺角：挺角者，牝戶有突肉如鼓角，或挺肉如旋螺也。主勞苦居多，而無生育也。又主父母破群，初年無倚，而寄食於族戚也。九．五色：五色者，陰毛有五色合併也。男主草澤英堆，因時勢逼迫而發達，異路功名也；女主先賤後貴，因人力愛惜而貴祿，庶妾寵幸也。十．豐腴：豐腴者，牝戶豐突肥膩而高也。主坤道之正氣，柔和而有氣節，旺夫又旺子女，而有恆志也。

The eighth category 「Tingjiao」:the so-called Tingjiao refers to a protruding flesh in the genital area resembling a drum or a spiral. This sign indicates a life full of hardship and an inability to have children; it also signifies the dispersion and decline of parents and family, early years of being without support, and having to rely on relatives and family members for sustenance. The ninth category 「Wuse」:the so-called Wuse refers to the presence of multiple colors in the pubic hair. For a man with this sign, he is destined to be an outstanding hero among the common people, rising to prominence due to circumstances, and achieving success through unconventional means. For a woman with this sign, she is destined to start low and rise high, gaining wealth and status through the care and support of others, often as a concubine. The tenth category 「Fengyu」:the so-called Fengyu refers to a full and prominent genital area with smooth and moist flesh. This sign is associated with the Earth Trigram, indicating a gentle yet principled nature, and is beneficial for both husband and children. The person is also persistent and determined in their endeavors. This is the most upright and proper sign among female physiognomies.

一．方肛：方肛者，四方起楞，大解方式也。男女皆主奇貴，而享盛名，漢淮陰侯有之。或三楞亦名貴而清祿，蓋穀道圓而不方故也。二．亂毛：亂毛者，穀道毛多而粗亂也。有陰陽之交，皆多亂毛，男女生此，均主聰明而好淫也。

The first category is "square anus":the so-called square anus refers to the anus having square edges around it, and during defecation, the shape is square. Both men and women with this feature are destined for extraordinary wealth and can enjoy great fame. Han Dynasty's Han Xin, the Marquis of Huayin, had this characteristic. If there are edges on three sides, it also indicates a noble destiny and a refined official position. This feature is valued because the anus of ordinary people is round and not square, so a square shape is very rare. The second category is "disordered hair":the so-called disordered hair refers to having a lot of coarse and messy hair around the anus. Generally, the area where yin and yang meet tends to have abundant and disorderly hair. Both men and women with this feature are intelligent and have a strong desire for sexual pleasure.

三．柔細：柔細者，穀道之毛均柔細而若無也。主和平守禮，穩見多祿，大勢之亨吉也。四．無毛：無毛者，穀道完全無毛也。主不守正義而好淫，不由正途而冒險，亂世主異路功名，而不善後，一主刑人丁，而少子女也。

The third category is "Soft and Fine":the so-called soft and fine means that the hair around the anus is all soft and fine, sparse as if there were none. This appearance indicates a gentle and peaceful nature, adherence to propriety and laws, steady insight, and abundant blessings and honors. The overall situation is favorable and auspicious. The fourth category is "No Hair":the so-called no hair means that there is absolutely no hair around the anus. This appearance indicates a person who does not follow the right path, is fond of lust, does not take the proper course in affairs, and prefers taking risks. In times of chaos, such a person may achieve "unconventional official rank," but the ending is not good. On the other hand, it also indicates the punishment of family members, and few children.

公篤曰：古人謂相法秘訣，壽夭最難，不獨人中，惟神是定，其法固精確，其用則難定矣。大凡壽數，皆以厄年為定法，其不在厄年而死者，蓋有正厄、傍厄、應證厄三種也。故達摩麻衣，有三九四九、六七七七之說，皆略而不詳，此篇因壽數而立也。

Chen Gongdu said: The secret of ancient face reading is most difficult in determining lifespan. One cannot judge lifespan merely by looking at the "human groove," but ultimately it depends on the "spirit." Although this method is precise, it is extremely difficult to apply. Generally, when calculating lifespan, the "calamity year" is used as the standard. However, some people do not die in their calamity year because the calamity year itself has three types: "main calamity," "secondary calamity," and "confirming calamity." Therefore, in the Da Mo face reading method and the Ma Yi face reading text, although there are statements such as "three nines make twenty-seven," "four nines make thirty-six," "six sevens make forty-two," and "seven sevens make forty-nine," they only mention these briefly without detailed explanation. This essay is specifically established for determining lifespan.

余考天道純厚，人之稟受亦厚，智識之開化較遲，性情之行為較。天道機薄，人之稟受亦薄，智識之開化較早，性情之行為較巧，壽數隨之加減。上古耋髦期頤不足奇，今則幾希矣。故現在之格局，聲音散漫不聚，目神浮淡無根，唇掀齒露，氣洩不收，均占多數，此不壽之格，亦氣數使然也。

I have studied this thoroughly: in the era when the heavenly way was simple and substantial, the vital energy people inherited was also thick, their wisdom developed more slowly, and their nature and behavior were more simple and unadorned. In the era when the heavenly way became cunning and superficial, the vital energy people inherited was also thin, their wisdom developed earlier, their nature and behavior became cunning, and their lifespan accordingly increased or decreased. In ancient times, living to seventy or eighty years old, or even over a hundred, was not unusual, but now such cases are very rare. Therefore, the common patterns seen today are mostly characterized by scattered and unfocused speech, dull and rootless eyes, protruding lips and exposed teeth, and the leakage of vital energy that cannot be contained. These are all patterns associated with a short lifespan, and they are caused by the changes in the vital energy of heaven and earth.

然死厄有定數，厄年有先後。男子以九年為一厄，中有七年一厄者；女子以八年為一厄，中有六年一厄者。余考易經纂辭，有太極初判，化而為二，乃九七也，八六也。按九數為離之中女，七數為兌之少陰，蓋男子外陽而內陰，其氣化而為奇，而應陰氣也；八數為艮之少男，六數為幹之老陽，蓋女子予外陰而內陽，其氣化而為偶，而應陽氣也。此後天之陰陽反應，即陰上陽下之義也。

However, death is determined by a fixed number, and the years of calamity also differ in order. For men, each calamity period is nine years, with another calamity occurring every seven years in between. For women, each calamity period is eight years, with another calamity occurring every six years in between. I have studied the Great Treatise of the Zhou Changes, which states that when the Taiji first divides, it becomes two, resulting in the numbers nine and seven, eight and six. According to the numbers of the I Ching, nine belongs to the Li hexagram, representing the middle female; seven belongs to the Dui hexagram, representing the young yin. Men have a yang exterior and a yin interior, so their vital energy manifests as an odd number and should be associated with yin energy. Eight belongs to the Gen hexagram, representing the young male; six belongs to the Qian hexagram, representing the old yang. Women have a yin exterior and a yang interior, so their vital energy manifests as an even number and should be associated with yang energy. This is the principle of the later heaven yin and yang interacting with each other, meaning that 'yin is above and yang is below.'

又考河圖洛書，中有震臨艮位，其動爻化而為九，是為長男；巽臨坤位，其動爻化而為七，是為長女，此九七之化氣也。幹臨離位，其動爻化而為八，是為老陽；離臨震位，其動爻化而為六，是為中女，此八六之化氣也。此先天之陰陽並行，奇偶自相交姤之義也。

I also examined the directions of the River Chart and the Luo Writing: the Zhen trigram falls into the position of Gen trigram, and its moving line transforms into nine, which represents the Elder Son; the Xun trigram falls into the position of Kun trigram, and its moving line transforms into seven, which represents the Elder Daughter—this is the origin of the numbers nine and seven. The Qian trigram falls into the position of Li trigram, and its moving line transforms into eight, which represents the Old Yang; the Li trigram falls into the position of Zhen trigram, and its moving line transforms into six, which represents the Middle Daughter—this is the origin of the numbers eight and six. This belongs to the Earlier Heaven pattern of yin and yang in parallel, explaining the principle of the interaction between odd and even numbers.

故九年七年，為男子定厄；八年六年，為女子定厄。凡行厄年之者，不死亦重疾，或飛災橫禍，或官訟刑剋，或損失株累。然亦有從厄年而發達者，亂世多此格也。蓋其形局煞重而露威，則從正厄年中，臨險而發達，至傍厄年中，必受挫折也；其形局和蘊而深藏，則從正厄年中，駁雜而破敗，傍厄中反有利益也。至於不厚不薄、不露不和，則從應證厄年中有妨害，而正厄年傍厄年均無關係也。

Therefore, the years nine and seven are fixed bad years for men, while the years eight and six are fixed bad years for women. Anyone who reaches a bad year will either die, suffer a serious illness, or face unexpected misfortunes, legal troubles, or loss of relatives through punishment, or suffer financial loss and be involved in others' affairs. However, some people may actually prosper during a bad year, especially in times of chaos. The reason is that those with strong and fierce energy that is openly displayed will face danger in the "main bad year" but may rise up instead, while in the "secondary bad year" they will certainly suffer setbacks. On the other hand, those with gentle and restrained energy that is hidden within will experience decline during the main bad year, but will benefit in the secondary bad year. As for those with a middle pattern that is neither heavy nor light, neither open nor gentle, their troubles will manifest in the "confirmed bad year," and the main and secondary bad years will have no effect on them.

此餘歷年經驗，再從醫學數學丹經中參透，而應證也。古人有知之而不詳言者，當在五代以前，而散亂見之；後人有不知而妄言者，當在宋代以後，而挪雜亂之。茲特分別詳註正厄年、傍厄年、應證厄年，為量壽要訣之千古定法，以俟高明採取而用之也。

This method of calculation is based on my years of experience, and has been verified through study of medicine, divination, and alchemical texts. In ancient times, there were those who understood this principle but did not elaborate on it, which was the case before the Five Dynasties period, when the ideas were scattered throughout various writings. Later, those who did not understand it but spoke recklessly, especially from the Song dynasty onwards, caused this system to become confused and disordered. Now I specifically explain the three categories: "correct厄year," "adjacent厄year," and "confirming厄year," in detail, making them a fixed method for determining lifespan, to be used by those of great insight.

一．九歲：此男子第一度正厄。形質清瘦而露，七歲為正厄之應證厄；形質濁厚而藏，十一歲為正厄之應證厄。如水形加一歲，則十歲為傍厄，十二歲為傍厄之應證厄；火形加二歲，則十一歲為傍厄，十三歲為傍厄之應證厄；金形加三歲，則十二歲為傍厄，薄金十歲為傍厄之應證厄，厚金十四歲為傍厄之應證厄；木形加四歲，則十三歲為傍厄，十一歲為傍厄之應證厄；土形加五歲，則十四歲為傍厄，十六歲為傍厄之應證厄。此為三種厄年法也。

The first critical age is nine years old, which is the first "zheng e" or primary critical year for a man. If the body is thin and the bones are prominently visible, it will manifest at seven years old, making seven the "yingzheng e" or confirming critical year of the primary critical year; if the body is thick and the energy is contained within, it will manifest at eleven years old, making eleven the confirming critical year. Then, according to the Five Phases shape, additional years are added: for those of the "water shape," one year is added, making ten the "bang e" or secondary critical year, and twelve the confirming critical year of the secondary critical year; for those of the "fire shape," two years are added, making eleven the secondary critical year, and thirteen the confirming critical year of the secondary critical year; for those of the "metal shape," three years are added, making twelve the secondary critical year, with those of thin metal energy manifesting at ten and those of thick metal energy manifesting at fourteen; for those of the "wood shape," four years are added, making thirteen the secondary critical year, and eleven the confirming critical year of the secondary critical year; for those of the "earth shape," five years are added, making fourteen the secondary critical year, and sixteen the confirming critical year of the secondary critical year. This is the method for calculating the three types of critical years: zheng e, bang e, and yingzheng e.

又如兼體之格局，相生者，則照正數而加推，即木火局加六歲，士金局加八歲，皆傍厄年也；兼體之格局相剋者，則照正數而減半，即木金局加三歲半，水土局加三歲，皆傍厄年也。其形質清瘦而露，則提前二年為應證厄；形質濁厚而和，則提後二年為應證厄。亦有兩厄合一，是為重厄，則據各形而加也。

Now consider the pattern where two forms are combined. If the two forms mutually generate, then add the original number of years accordingly: for example, if the combination of wood and fire forms adds six years, and the combination of earth and metal forms adds eight years (the original "earth and metal" is actually "earth" due to a mistake), the resulting years are all considered years of secondary misfortune. If the two forms mutually control each other, then subtract half of the original number: for example, the combination of wood and metal forms adds three and a half years, and the combination of water and earth forms adds three years, and the resulting years are also considered years of secondary misfortune. Still follow the old rule: if the form is clear, thin, and exposed, then the year of misfortune is advanced by two years; if the form is thick, solid, and mild, then the year of misfortune is delayed by two years. There are also cases where the original year of misfortune and the secondary year of misfortune fall in the same year, which is called "double misfortune," and the danger is doubled. The specific calculation still depends on each person's form and structure.

二．十八歲：為男子第二正厄年。如形質清瘦而露，則十六歲為正厄之應證厄；如形質濁厚而和，則二十歲為正厄之應證厄。如水形加一歲，則十九歲為傍厄，二十一歲為傍厄之應證厄；火形加二歲，則二十歲為傍厄，二十二歲為傍厄之應證厄；金形加三歲，則二十一歲為傍厄，薄金十九歲為傍厄之應證厄，厚金二十三歲為傍厄之應證厄；木形加四歲，則二十二歲為傍厄，二十歲為傍厄之應證厄；土形加五歲，則二十三歲為傍厄，二十五歲為傍厄之應證厄。此正厄傍厄應證厄三法也。

The second critical period is at the age of eighteen, which is the second major critical year for men. Those with a slender and exposed physique will experience this critical year at sixteen; those with a thick and mild constitution will experience it at twenty. According to the Five Phases, those of the water type add one year, so the critical year is at nineteen, and the confirmation of the critical year is at twenty-one; those of the fire type add two years, so the critical year is at twenty, and the confirmation is at twenty-two; those of the metal type add three years, so the critical year is at twenty-one, and those with thin metal energy will experience the confirmation at nineteen, while those with thick metal energy will experience it at twenty-three; those of the wood type add four years, so the critical year is at twenty-two, and the confirmation is at twenty; those of the earth type add five years, so the critical year is at twenty-three, and the confirmation is at twenty-five. This is the method of calculating the critical year, the secondary critical year, and the confirmation of the critical year. Eighteen is the number of two nines, which corresponds to the time when a man reaches adulthood, gets married, and starts working outside the home. This critical period often manifests in illness, accidents, and domestic misfortunes. When assessing the year, one must also consider the position and color of the year in question.

又如兼體相生者，則照正數而加，如水木形加五歲，火土形加七歲，皆傍厄年也；兼體相剋者，則照正數而減半，即木土形加四歲半，火金形加兩歲半，皆傍厄年也。其形質清瘦而露，則提前二年為應證厄；形質濁厚而和，則提後二年為應證厄。亦有兩厄合一，是為重厄，則據各形而加推也。

The calculation for combined forms is the same as before: if two forms mutually generate, add their corresponding numbers directly. For example, water and wood combined add five years, and fire and earth combined add seven years, resulting in a year of secondary misfortune. If two forms mutually control, subtract half the corresponding number. For example, wood and earth combined add four and a half years, and fire and metal combined add two and a half years, also resulting in a year of secondary misfortune. If the form is clear, thin, and exposed, the misfortune occurs two years earlier; if the form is thick, solid, and mild, the misfortune occurs two years later. If the main misfortune year and the secondary misfortune year coincide, it becomes a "double misfortune," which is more dangerous. Still, each person's form structure should be examined individually to determine the exact year.

三．二十七歲：為男子第三正厄年。如形質清瘦而露，則二十五歲為正厄之應證厄；如形質濁厚而和，則二十九歲為正厄之應證厄。如水局加一歲，則二十八歲為傍厄，三十歲為傍厄之應證厄；火局加二歲，則二十九歲為傍厄，薄者二十七歲為重厄，厚者三十一歲為傍厄之應證厄；金局加三歲，則三十歲為傍厄，薄金則二十八歲為傍厄之應證厄，厚金則三十二歲為傍厄之應證厄；木形加四歲，則三十一歲為傍厄，二十九歲為傍厄之應證厄；土形加五歲，則三十二歲為傍厄，三十四歲為傍厄之應證厄。此為正厄傍厄應證厄三法也。

The third critical period is at the age of twenty-seven, which is the third major critical year for men. Those with a slender and exposed physique will experience the critical year at twenty-five; those with a thick and gentle constitution will experience it at twenty-nine. According to the Five Phases calculation: for those with a water constitution, add one year, so the secondary critical year is at twenty-eight, and the confirmation of the secondary critical year is at thirty; for those with a fire constitution, add two years, so the secondary critical year is at twenty-nine, and for those with weak fire energy, the critical year coincides with the main and secondary critical years at twenty-seven, forming a 'double critical year,' while for those with strong fire energy, it will be confirmed at thirty-one; for those with a metal constitution, add three years, so the secondary critical year is at thirty, and for those with weak metal energy, it will be confirmed at twenty-eight, while for those with strong metal energy, it will be confirmed at thirty-two; for those with a wood constitution, add four years, so the secondary critical year is at thirty-one, and the confirmation of the secondary critical year is at twenty-nine; for those with a soil constitution, add five years, so the secondary critical year is at thirty-two, and the confirmation of the secondary critical year is at thirty-four. This is how the three methods of critical years—main critical year, secondary critical year, and confirmation of the secondary critical year—apply in this year. Twenty-seven is the number of three nines, and by this age, men are usually married and established in their careers, so this critical year often affects career collapse, family injuries, and legal disputes. It is advisable to prepare in advance.

又如兼體相生者，則照正數而加推，如金水形加四歲，土金形加八歲，皆傍厄年也；如兼體相剋者，則照正數而減半，如水土形加三歲，水火局加一歲半，皆傍厄年也。其形質清瘦而露，則提前二年，為傍厄之應證厄；其形質濁厚而和，則提後二年，為傍厄之應證厄。又有兩厄合一，則據各形而推也。

A person with combined forms still follows the old rules: if two forms mutually generate, add their corresponding ages together, for example, metal and water combined add four years, earth and metal combined add eight years, and the resulting years are all secondary calamity years. If two forms mutually control each other, subtract half from the corresponding age, for example, water and earth combined add three years, water and fire combined add one and a half years, and the resulting years are also secondary calamity years. For those with clear and exposed forms, the occurrence of the secondary calamity should be advanced by two years; for those with thick and mild forms, the occurrence of the secondary calamity should be postponed by two years. If a person's main calamity year coincides with the secondary calamity year, it should still be determined based on their specific form structure, and not treated as a general case.

四．三十六歲：為男子第四正厄年，又以此厄為最凶。如形局清瘦而露，則三十四歲為正厄之應證厄；如形局濁厚而和，則三十八歲為正厄之應證厄。如水形加一歲，則三十七歲為傍厄，三十九成為傍厄之應證厄；火局加二歲，則三十八歲為傍厄，薄火則三十六歲為重厄，厚火則四十歲為傍厄之應證厄；金局加三歲，則三十九歲為傍厄，薄金則三十七成為傍厄之應證厄，厚金則四十一歲為傍厄之應證厄；木形加四歲，則四十歲為傍厄，三十八歲為傍厄之應證厄；土局加五歲，則四十一歲為傍厄，四十三歲為傍厄之應證厄。此為正厄傍厄應證厄，又當考其部位，查其氣色，此厄及吉凶成敗關鍵也。

The fourth critical period is at the age of thirty-six, which is the fourth major critical year for men, and also the most dangerous among all critical years. For those with a clear and thin body structure, the critical year for this major critical period occurs at thirty-four; for those with a thick and mild body structure, it occurs at thirty-eight. According to the Five Phases calculation: for those with a water body structure, add one year, so the secondary critical year is at thirty-seven, and the critical year for this secondary critical period is at thirty-nine (the original text's '三十九成' is a mistake for '三十九岁', same for others below); for those with a fire body structure, add two years, so the secondary critical year is at thirty-eight, those with weak fire energy have a double critical year at thirty-six, while those with strong fire energy have the critical year at forty; for those with a metal body structure, add three years, so the secondary critical year is at thirty-nine, those with weak metal energy have the critical year at thirty-seven, while those with strong metal energy have it at forty-one; for those with a wood body structure, add four years, so the secondary critical year is at forty, and the critical year for this secondary critical period is at thirty-eight; for those with a earth body structure, add five years, so the secondary critical year is at forty-one, and the critical year for this secondary critical period is at forty-three. These are the three methods of critical years: major critical year, secondary critical year, and critical year for confirmation. In addition, one should also examine the corresponding annual positions and check the complexion and color of the face at that time, because this critical year is the key to success or failure, fortune or misfortune, and life or death throughout one's life. Thirty-six is the number of four nines, which is the age of prime strength and when the burden on one's shoulders is heaviest. The success or failure, life or death of one's entire life often decides in this year, and it must not be neglected or overlooked.

又如兼體相生者，則照正數而加推，如金水加四歲，水木加五歲，皆傍厄年也；如兼體相剋者，則照正數而減半，如木金局加三歲半，水土形加三歲，皆傍厄年也。其形局清瘦而露，則提前二年為傍厄之應證厄；如形局濁厚而和，則提後二年為傍厄之應證厄。亦有兩厄合一，則以各形而加推也。

People with combined forms are calculated as follows: if the two forms mutually generate, add their respective numbers, for example, metal and water combined add four years, water and wood combined add five years, and the resulting years are all years of secondary calamity; if the two forms mutually control each other, subtract half of the number, for example, wood and metal combined add three and a half years, water and earth combined add three years, and the resulting years are also years of secondary calamity. If the form structure is clear, thin, and exposed, the year of secondary calamity occurs two years earlier; if the form structure is thick, harmonious, and mild, the year of secondary calamity occurs two years later. If a year is both a main calamity year and a secondary calamity year, it is still necessary to calculate according to each person's form structure separately.

五．四十二歲：為男子第五正厄年，從九數而轉七數，故在四十二歲也。如清瘦而露，則四十歲為正厄之應證厄；如濁厚而和，則四十四歲為正厄之應證厄。如水局加一歲，則四十三歲為傍厄，四十五歲為傍厄之應證厄；火形加二歲，則四十四歲為傍厄，薄火則四十二歲為重厄，厚火則四十六歲為傍厄之應證厄；金局加三歲，則四十五歲為傍厄，薄金則四十三歲為傍厄之應證厄，厚金則四十七歲為傍厄之應證厄；木局加四歲，則四十六歲為傍厄，四十四歲為傍厄之應證厄；土局加五歲，則四十七歲為傍厄，四十九歲為傍厄之應證厄。此為正厄傍厄應證厄之三法也。

The fifth critical period is at age forty-two, which is the fifth major critical year for men. Here, the transition occurs from multiples of nine to multiples of seven, as six multiplied by seven equals forty-two, hence the critical year is at forty-two. For those with a slender and exposed physique, the corresponding critical year is at forty; for those with a thick and mild constitution, it is at forty-four. According to the Five Phases calculation: for water type, add one year, so forty-three is the secondary critical year, and forty-five is the corresponding critical year. For fire type, add two years, so forty-four is the secondary critical year; for thin fire, forty-two coincides with the main and secondary critical years, forming a double critical year; for thick fire, forty-six is the corresponding critical year. For metal type, add three years, so forty-five is the secondary critical year; for thin metal, forty-three is the corresponding critical year; for thick metal, forty-seven is the corresponding critical year. For wood type, add four years, so forty-six is the secondary critical year, and forty-four is the corresponding critical year. For earth type, add five years, so forty-seven is the secondary critical year, and forty-nine is the corresponding critical year. This is how the methods of the main critical year, secondary critical year, and corresponding critical year are applied in this year. Forty-two is a number combining six and seven. From this age onward, male destinies transition from the nine-number sequence to the seven-number sequence, indicating a gradual decline in vitality. Therefore, this critical year often relates to the recurrence of old illnesses, loss of wealth and status, and the death of parents or elders. It is advisable to remain calm and wait for the right time.

又如兼體相生者，則照正數而加推，如木火局加六歲，火土形加七歲，皆傍厄年也；如兼體相剋者，則照正數而減半，如水土局加三歲，水火局加一歲半，皆傍厄年也。如形局清瘦而露，則提前二年為應證厄；形局濁厚而和，則提後二年為應證厄。亦有兩厄合一，則以各形而加推也。

People with combined forms still follow the old method: if two forms mutually generate, add their respective numbers, for example, wood and fire combined add six years, fire and earth combined add seven years, and the resulting years are all considered as secondary calamity years. If two forms mutually control, subtract half the number, for example, water and earth combined add three years, water and fire combined add one and a half years, and the resulting years are also considered as secondary calamity years. If the form structure is clear, thin, and exposed, the calamity occurs two years earlier; if the form structure is thick, harmonious, and mild, the calamity occurs two years later. If the main calamity year and the secondary calamity year coincide in the same year to form a double calamity, it should still be calculated individually according to each person's form structure.

六．四十九歲：為男子第六正厄年，此為七七之數。如形局清瘦而露，則四十七歲為正厄之應證厄；如形局濁厚而和，則五十一歲為正厄之應證厄。如木局加一歲，則五十歲為傍厄，五十二歲為傍厄之應證厄；火局加二歲，則五十一歲為傍厄，薄火則四十九歲為重厄，厚火則五十三歲為傍厄之應證厄；金局加三歲，則五十二歲為傍厄，薄金則五十歲為傍厄之應證厄，厚金五十四歲為傍厄之應證厄；木局加四歲，則五十三歲為傍厄，五十一歲為傍厄之應證厄；土局加五歲，則五十四歲為傍厄，五十六歲為傍厄之應證厄。此三種厄年法也。

The sixth critical period is at the age of forty-nine, which is the sixth major critical year for men, calculated using the number seven multiplied by seven. For those with a clear and thin form, the corresponding critical year for this major critical period is forty-seven; for those with a thick and gentle form, it is fifty-one. According to the Five Phases, water type adds one year, making fifty the secondary critical year and fifty-two the corresponding critical year for the secondary critical period (the original text mistakenly states 'wood type adds one year' but it should be 'water type', as adding one year is the standard for water forms); fire type adds two years, making fifty-one the secondary critical year, and for those with thin fire, forty-nine coincides with the main and secondary critical years, forming a 'double critical year', while for those with thick fire, fifty-three is the corresponding critical year; metal type adds three years, making fifty-two the secondary critical year, and for those with thin metal, fifty is the corresponding critical year, while for those with thick metal, fifty-four is the corresponding critical year; wood type adds four years, making fifty-three the secondary critical year, and fifty-one the corresponding critical year for the secondary critical period; earth type adds five years, making fifty-four the secondary critical year, and fifty-six the corresponding critical year for the secondary critical period. These are the methods for calculating the three types of critical years. Forty-nine is the number of seven times seven, and ancient people believed it to be the year when a man's vital energy and spirit are nearly exhausted. This critical year often manifests in serious illness, loss of position, and separation from family. It is especially dangerous when the main and secondary critical years coincide, forming a 'double critical year'.

又如兼體相生者，則照正數而加推，如木火局加六歲，火土局加七歲，皆傍厄年也；如兼體相剋者，則照正數而減半，如水火局加一歲半，火金形加兩歲半，皆傍厄年也。其形局清瘦而露，則提前二年為應證厄；其形局濁厚而和，則提後二年為應證厄。亦有兩厄合一，則以各形而加推也。

A person with combined forms follows the same method of calculation: if the two forms mutually generate, add the base number cumulatively. For example, if the forms are wood and fire, add six years; if the forms are fire and earth, add seven years. The resulting years are considered as secondary calamity years. If the two forms mutually control each other, subtract half of the base number. For example, if the forms are water and fire, add one and a half years; if the forms are fire and metal, add two and a half years. The resulting years are also considered as secondary calamity years. If the form structure is clear, thin, and exposed, the calamity occurs two years earlier. If the form structure is thick, harmonious, and mild, the calamity occurs two years later. If the main calamity year and the secondary calamity year coincide in the same year, it becomes a double calamity year, and the calculation should still be adjusted according to each person's form structure.

七．五十八歲：為男子第七正厄年，又以九年加推。如形局清瘦而露，則五十六歲為正厄之應證厄；如形局濁厚而和，則六十歲為正厄之應證厄。如水形加一歲，則五十九歲為傍厄，六十一歲為傍厄之應證厄；火局加二歲，則六十成為傍厄，薄火則五十八歲為重厄，厚火則六十二歲為傍厄之應證厄；金局加三歲，則六十一歲為傍厄，薄金則五十九歲為傍厄之應證厄，厚金則六十三歲為傍厄之應證厄；木局加四歲，則六十二歲為傍厄，六十歲為傍厄之應證厄；土局加五歲，則六十三歲為傍厄，六十五歲為傍厄之應證厄。亦以此三法考查也。

The seventh critical period is at fifty-eight years old, which is the seventh major critical year for men, calculated by adding nine years to forty-nine. For those with a clear and thin form, the confirmation of the critical year occurs at fifty-six; for those with a thick and gentle form, it occurs at sixty. According to the Five Phases, water type adds one year, so the critical year is at fifty-nine, and the confirmation of the critical year is at sixty-one; fire type adds two years, so the critical year is at sixty, and the confirmation is at sixty-two. For those with thin fire, fifty-eight is both the main critical year and the secondary critical year, forming a double critical year, while for those with thick fire, the confirmation is at sixty-two. Metal type adds three years, so the critical year is at sixty-one, and the confirmation is at fifty-nine for thin metal and sixty-three for thick metal. Wood type adds four years, so the critical year is at sixty-two, and the confirmation is at sixty. Earth type adds five years, so the critical year is at sixty-three, and the confirmation is at sixty-five. This year is also examined using the three methods of main critical year, secondary critical year, and confirmation of critical year. Fifty-eight is calculated by adding nine years to forty-nine, and at this age, people have entered old age. This critical year often relates to the recurrence of old illnesses, withdrawal from position, and worries about descendants. Those who pass through this period safely tend to live long lives.

又如兼體相生者，則照正數而加推；兼體相剋者，則照正數而減半，其它如上例。八．六十七歲：為男子第八正厄年，加推如上。九．七十六歲：為男子第九正厄年，加推如上。十．八十五歲：為男子第十正厄年，加推如上。十一．九十四歲：為男子第十一正厄年，加推如上。

A person with combined forms still follows the previous example: if two forms mutually generate, their numbers are added together; if they mutually control each other, their numbers are halved. All other details remain the same as before. The subsequent years of calamity are as follows: the eighth major calamity occurs at the age of sixty-seven, the ninth at seventy-six, the tenth at eighty-five, and the eleventh at ninety-four—each subsequent calamity is nine years later than the previous one. The main calamity, secondary calamity, confirming calamity, as well as the added years according to the Five Phases, the addition or subtraction according to combined forms, the premature thinness by two years, and the delayed robustness by two years, are all applied in the same way as explained before. The author does not list them again individually.

一．八歲：為女子第一正厄年。如形局清瘦而露，則六歲為正厄之應證厄；如形局濁厚而和，則十歲為正厄之應證厄。如水局加一歲，則九歲為傍厄；火局加二歲，則十歲為傍厄；金局加三歲，則十一歲為傍厄；木局加四歲，則十二歲為傍厄；土局加五歲，則十三歲為傍厄。凡木火局與薄金，均提前二年；水土局與厚金，均提後二年，皆為傍厄之應證厄。此為厄年之三法也。又如兼體相生者，則照正數而加推，如水木局加五歲，水金局加四歲，皆傍厄年也。其清瘦而露，則提前二年；如濁厚而和，則提後二年，皆傍厄之應證厄。又有兩厄合一，則以各形而加推也。

The first major critical year for a woman is at the age of eight. For those with a clear and thin form, the corresponding critical year is at six; for those with a thick and gentle form, it is at ten. According to the Five Phases, for water type, add one year, making nine the secondary critical year; for fire type, add two years, making ten the secondary critical year; for metal type, add three years, making eleven the secondary critical year; for wood type, add four years, making twelve the secondary critical year; for earth type, add five years, making thirteen the secondary critical year. As for the corresponding critical year of the secondary critical year, it depends on the form and energy: for those with wood, fire types, or thin metal energy, the corresponding critical year occurs two years before the secondary critical year; for those with water, earth types, or thick metal energy, it occurs two years after the secondary critical year. This is how the methods of primary critical year, secondary critical year, and corresponding critical year apply to the first critical year for women. For women with two types of form, if the two types are mutually generating, add the corresponding years accordingly: for example, if a woman has both water and wood forms, add five years; if she has both water and metal forms, add four years. The resulting years are considered secondary critical years. For those with a clear and thin form, the corresponding critical year is moved forward by two years; for those with a thick and gentle form, it is moved backward by two years. These two years are considered the corresponding critical years of the secondary critical year. If the primary critical year and the secondary critical year coincide in the same year, forming a double critical year, the danger is doubled. Still, each person's form and energy should be considered separately to adjust the years accordingly.

二．十六歲：為女子第二正厄。如清瘦而露，則十四歲為正厄之應證厄；如濁厚而和，則十八歲為正厄之應證厄。如水局加一歲，則十七歲為傍厄；火局加二歲，則十八歲為傍厄；金局加三歲，則十九歲為傍厄；木局加四歲，則二十歲為傍厄；土局加五歲，則二十一歲為傍厄。凡木火局與薄金，均提前二年；水土局與厚金，均提後二年，皆傍厄之應證厄。此為厄年之三法也。

The second major calamity year for a woman is at sixteen. For those with a slender and exposed physique, the corresponding calamity occurs at fourteen; for those with a thick and gentle constitution, it occurs at eighteen. According to the Five Phases, the auxiliary calamity years are calculated as follows: for those of the Water element, add one year, making the auxiliary calamity at seventeen; for those of the Fire element, add two years, making it eighteen; for those of the Metal element, add three years, making it nineteen; for those of the Wood element, add four years, making it twenty; and for those of the Earth element, add five years, making it twenty-one. The corresponding calamity for the auxiliary years still follows the general rule: those of the Wood, Fire, and thin Metal elements experience the calamity two years earlier, while those of the Water, Earth, and thick Metal elements experience it two years later. This is the method for calculating the main calamity, auxiliary calamity, and corresponding calamity for this year. Sixteen is the number of two eights, which is the age when a woman reaches adulthood and is ready for marriage. This calamity often manifests in matters related to an unsuccessful marriage, blood-related accidents, and illness.

又如兼體相生者，則照正數而加推，如火木加六歲，火土加七歲，皆傍厄年也；如兼體相剋者，則照正數而減半，如火水加一歲半，火金加二歲半，皆傍厄年也。薄者提前二年，厚者提後二年，均為傍厄之應證厄。又有兩厄合一，則以各形而加推也。

The method of calculating for combined forms: if two forms mutually generate, add their corresponding numbers directly. For example, if the forms are fire and wood, add six years; if the forms are fire and earth, add seven years. The resulting years are all considered as secondary calamity years. If two forms mutually control each other, subtract half of the corresponding number. For example, if the forms are fire and water, add one and a half years; if the forms are fire and metal, add two and a half years. The resulting years are also considered as secondary calamity years. If the form's energy is weak, the year of calamity should be advanced by two years; if the form's energy is strong, the year of calamity should be postponed by two years. These two years are both considered as the year of calamity. If the main calamity year and the secondary calamity year coincide in the same year, then each person's form structure should be considered separately for further calculation.

三．二十四歲：為女子第三正厄年。如形局清瘦而露，則二十二歲為正厄之應證厄；如形局濁厚而和，則二十六歲為正厄之應證厄。如水局加一歲，則二十五歲為傍厄；火局加二歲，則二十六歲為傍厄；金局加三歲，則二十七歲為傍厄；木局加四歲，則二十八歲為傍厄；土局加五歲，則二十九歲為傍厄。凡火木局與薄金，均提前二年；水土局與厚金，均提後二年，為傍厄之應證厄。此為厄年之三法也。

The third major calamity year for a woman is at the age of twenty-four. For those with a clear and thin body structure, the corresponding calamity occurs at twenty-two; for those with a thick and mild body structure, it occurs at twenty-six. According to the Five Phases calculation: those with a water structure add one year, making the corresponding calamity at twenty-five; those with a fire structure add two years, making it at twenty-six; those with a metal structure add three years, making it at twenty-seven; those with a wood structure add four years, making it at twenty-eight; and those with a earth structure add five years, making it at twenty-nine. The corresponding calamity for the secondary calamity follows the same rule: those with a fire, wood, or thin metal structure experience it two years earlier; those with a water, earth, or thick metal structure experience it two years later. This is the calculation method for the three calamity years at this age. Twenty-four is the number of three and eight, and women often give birth and manage the household at this time, so this calamity often relates to childbirth, children's misfortunes, and changes in the husband's family.

凡兼體相生者，則照正數而加推，如金水局加四歲，金土局加八歲，皆傍厄年也；兼體相剋者，則照正數而減半，如金木局加三歲半，金火局加二歲半，皆傍厄年也。清瘦而露，則提前二年；濁厚而和，則提後二年，均為傍厄之應證厄。亦有兩厄合一，則以各形而加推也。

If a person has two forms simultaneously, the mutual generation adds the numbers directly: for example, if the forms are metal and water, add four years; if the forms are metal and earth, add eight years. The resulting years are all considered years of secondary calamity. For mutual control, subtract half the number: for example, if the forms are metal and wood, add three and a half years; if the forms are metal and fire, add two and a half years. The resulting years are also considered years of secondary calamity. If the form structure is clear, thin, and exposed, the calamity occurs two years earlier; if the form structure is thick, harmonious, and mild, the calamity occurs two years later. If the main calamity year and the secondary calamity year coincide in the same year to form a double calamity, it should still be calculated separately according to each person's form structure, and not be treated as a general case.

四．三十二歲：為女子第四正厄年。如形局清瘦而露，則三十歲為正厄之應證厄；如形局濁厚而和，則三十四歲為正厄之應證厄。如水局加一歲，則三十三歲為傍厄；火局加二歲，則三十四歲為傍厄；金局加三歲，則三十五歲為傍厄；木局加四歲，則三十六歲為傍厄；土局加五歲，則三十七歲為傍厄。凡木火局與薄金，均提前二年；如水土局與厚金，均提後二年，為傍厄之應證厄。此為厄年之三法也。

The fourth major critical year for a woman is at the age of thirty-two. For those with a clear and thin appearance, the critical year is at thirty. For those with a thick and mild appearance, the critical year is at thirty-four. According to the Five Phases, those with a Water element add one year, making thirty-three the secondary critical year. Those with a Fire element add two years, making thirty-four the secondary critical year. Those with a Metal element add three years, making thirty-five the secondary critical year. Those with a Wood element add four years, making thirty-six the secondary critical year. Those with a Earth element add five years, making thirty-seven the secondary critical year. The secondary critical year still follows the general rule: those with a Wood or Fire element and thin Metal will have their critical year two years earlier, while those with a Water, Earth, or thick Metal element will have their critical year two years later. This is how the three critical years are calculated at the age of thirty-two. Thirty-two is the number of four and eight, which signifies a woman who has been in charge for a long time. This critical year is often associated with accumulated labor leading to illness, loss of wealth, and the death of parents-in-law. Special attention should be paid to the overlapping of the main and secondary critical years.

凡兼體相生者，則照正數而加推，如木水局加五歲，木火局加六歲，皆傍厄年也；如兼體相剋者，則照正數而減半，如木金局加三歲半，木土局加四歲半，皆傍厄年也。薄者提前二年，厚者提後二年，皆傍厄之應證厄。亦有兩厄合一，則以各形加推也。

People with combined forms still follow the same rules: for those with mutual generation, add the corresponding number of years, for example, wood and water combined add five years, wood and fire combined add six years, and the resulting years are considered as secondary calamity years. For those with mutual control, subtract half the corresponding number of years, for example, wood and metal combined add three and a half years, wood and earth combined add four and a half years, and the resulting years are also considered as secondary calamity years. Those with weak form and energy should experience the calamity two years earlier, while those with strong form and energy should experience it two years later. If the main calamity year and the secondary calamity year combine into a single year of heavy calamity, it should still be calculated individually according to each person's form and structure.

五．四十歲：為女子第五正厄年，女格以此厄為最凶。如形局清瘦而露，則三十八歲為正厄之應證厄；如形局濁厚而和，則四十二歲為正厄之應證厄。如水局加一歲，則四十一歲為傍厄；火局加二歲，則四十二歲為傍厄；金局加三歲，則四十三歲為傍厄；木局加四歲則四十四歲為傍厄；土局加五歲，則四十五歲為傍厄。薄者提前二年，厚者提後二年，均傍厄之應證厄。此為厄年之三法也。兼體如上例。

The fifth major critical year for a woman is at the age of forty, which is the most dangerous period in a woman's destiny. For those with a clear and thin body structure, the critical year occurs at thirty-eight; for those with a thick and gentle body structure, it occurs at forty-two. According to the Five Phases calculation: those with a Water structure add one year, so the critical year is forty-one; those with a Fire structure add two years, so the critical year is forty-two; those with a Metal structure add three years, so the critical year is forty-three; those with a Wood structure add four years, so the critical year is forty-four; and those with a Earth structure add five years, so the critical year is forty-five. Those with thin vitality should move the critical year forward by two years, while those with thick vitality should move it backward by two years. These are the three methods for calculating critical years. For those who have both structures, they can be calculated according to the examples given above. The age of forty is the number of five and eight, which is the most dangerous period for a woman's destiny. It often manifests as diseases related to blood and injuries to the husband's star. Therefore, one should remain calm and take care, avoiding mental exertion.

六．四十六歲：為女子第六正厄年，此八數之轉六數他。如形局清瘦而露，則四十四歲為正厄之應證厄；如形局濁厚而和，則四十八歲為正厄之應證厄。如水局加一歲，則四十七歲為傍厄；火局加二歲，則四十八歲為傍厄；金局加三歲，則四十九歲為傍厄；木局加四歲，則五十歲為傍厄；土局加五歲，則五十一歲為傍厄。凡木火局與薄金，均提前二年；凡水土局與厚金，均提後二年，為傍厄之應證厄。亦有兩厄合一，則以各形加推。兼體如上例而類推。此為厄年之三法也。

The sixth major affliction year for a woman is at the age of forty-six, calculated by the transition from multiples of eight to multiples of six (forty plus six, i.e., the transition from the number eight to the number six). For those with a form and structure that is clear, thin, and exposed, the corresponding affliction year is at forty-four; for those with a form and structure that is thick, harmonious, and mild, the corresponding affliction year is at forty-eight. According to the Five Phases calculation: for water type, add one year, making the corresponding affliction year at forty-seven; for fire type, add two years, making it forty-eight; for metal type, add three years, making it forty-nine; for wood type, add four years, making it fifty; for earth type, add five years, making it fifty-one. The corresponding affliction year for the secondary affliction follows the general rule: for wood type, fire type, and thin metal, it is two years earlier; for water type, earth type, and thick metal, it is two years later. If the main affliction and secondary affliction coincide in the same year, they are still calculated according to the added years for each type. For those with combined types, the same rule applies. This is the calculation method for the three types of affliction years. From this point on, the female destiny transitions from the number eight to the number six, resulting in an affliction every six years, which is more frequent than before, so greater attention should be paid to the yearly positions and complexion in later years.

七．五十二歲：為女子第七正厄年。如形局清瘦而露，則五十歲為正厄之應證厄；如形局濁厚而和，則五十四歲為正厄之應證厄。如水局加一歲，則五十三歲為傍厄；火局加二歲，則五十四歲為傍厄；金局加三歲，則五十五歲為傍厄；木局加四歲，則五十六歲為傍厄；土局加五歲，則五十七歲為傍厄。凡木火局與薄金，均提前二年；凡水土局與厚金，均提後二年，為傍厄之應證厄。兼體加推如上例。此為厄年之三法也。

The seventh major affliction year for women is fifty-two. For those with a clear and thin appearance, the affliction manifests at fifty. For those with a thick and mild appearance, it manifests at fifty-four. According to the Five Phases, those with a water element add one year, so the affliction occurs at fifty-three. Those with a fire element add two years, so it occurs at fifty-four. Those with a metal element add three years, so it occurs at fifty-five. Those with a wood element add four years, so it occurs at fifty-six. Those with a earth element add five years, so it occurs at fifty-seven. The affliction years for the secondary afflictions still follow the same rules: those with a wood, fire, or thin metal element experience the affliction two years earlier, while those with a water, earth, or thick metal element experience it two years later. If someone has two elements, the calculation is based on the mutual generation and control rules mentioned earlier. This is how the three affliction years are applied in this case. Fifty-two is calculated by adding six years to forty-six. This affliction is mostly associated with the recurrence of old illnesses and worries about children.

八．六十歲：為女子第八正厄年，加推如上例。九．六十八歲：為女子第九正厄年，加推如上例。十．七十六歲：為女子第十正厄年，加推如上例。十一．八十四歲：為女子第十一正厄年，加推如上。十三．九十二歲：為女子第十二正厄年，加推如上。

The subsequent critical years for a woman are as follows: the eighth major critical year occurs at the age of sixty, the ninth at sixty-eight, the tenth at seventy-six, the eleventh at eighty-four, and the twelfth at ninety-two—each subsequent one is calculated by adding eight years to the previous one. (The original text mistakenly lists it as the thirteenth, but according to the meaning, it should be the twelfth.) The rules for the main critical years, secondary critical years, confirming critical years, as well as the addition and subtraction based on the five phases, combined forms, mutual generation and mutual control, thin forms advancing two years earlier, and thick forms delaying two years later, are all applied in the same way as explained in the previous entries. The author does not repeat these rules for each entry.