Diseases and Illnesses: A Comprehensive Explanation

公篤曰：上列之圖，為疾厄全圖，而專論疾厄者。此為新修改正，而加之以經驗，及十餘年苦心始成。凡由氣化所生之病，外發現於面部之部位，內根據五臟六腑之經絡，則分內因之病，與外因之病也。按內因之病，為酒色財氣之七情所傷，因喜怒哀懼愛惡欲而發也；外因之病，為天地不正之六氣所感，因風寒暑溼燥火而發也。

Chen Gongdu said: The chart above is called "Ji E Quan Tu," specifically used for diagnosing diseases and misfortunes. It is a revised and corrected version of mine, with my own clinical experiences added. It took me over ten years of hard work to complete. All diseases arising from qi can be manifested externally as changes in a particular part of the face, and internally they can be classified into two major categories according to the meridians of the five zang and six fu organs: "internal causes" and "external causes." Internal causes are injuries caused by wine, sex, wealth, and anger, and the seven emotions: joy, anger, sorrow, fear, love, hate, and desire. External causes are due to exposure to the improper "six qi" in the heavens and earth, which are the six pathogenic factors: wind, cold, heat, dampness, dryness, and fire.

凡有疾厄，皆現於部位之氣色，惟外部血光傷痕之症，於稽考不詳，至於瘡疥花柳痘疹，於部位亦有所關係也。此氣色為先天之動機，因氣化而內外相應也。茲分三種：其第一為危險之疾厄，可以至死亡之症；其第二為常度之宿疾，可以至流連之症；其第三為臨時之疾厄，而暫時不久，即可全愈。此為疾厄之三大綱也。

Whenever there is illness or misfortune, it will manifest in the color of the corresponding body part. However, external injuries such as bloodshed or knife wounds are not easily discernible through color changes. As for diseases such as sores, scabies, syphilis, and smallpox, each has a specific association with particular body parts. The color changes are signs initiated by the Earlier Heaven, as the process of qi transformation never ceases, causing the internal organs and external appearance to correspond with each other. This can be divided into three categories: the first is serious illness that may lead to death; the second is chronic illness that persists for a long time and is difficult to recover from; the third is sudden illness that occurs temporarily and can be fully recovered from soon. These are the three main principles regarding illness and misfortune.

如第一之死亡病，即祖脈、祖氣、靈合、前衛、天門、命門、交關、寶倉、命符、天真、命官之十一部位是也；如流連之第二病厄，即後衛、命關、輔弼、機樞、三陰、中勾陳、下勾陳、寶闕、氣海、血海、屏藩、濁闕之十二部位是也；如第三之暫時病厄，即上勾陳、玄武、寶屏、生化關之四部位是也。

The first category of fatal illnesses involves the following eleven areas: 'Zumu', 'Zuqi', 'Linghe', 'Qianwei', 'Tianmen', 'Mingmen', 'Jiaoguan', 'Baochang', 'Mingfu', 'Tianzhen', and 'Mingguan', where 'Mingguan' refers to the 'Minggong' mentioned later. The second category of lingering illnesses involves the following twelve areas: 'Houwei', 'Mingguan', 'Fubì', 'Jishu', 'San Yin', 'Shang Gou Chen', 'Xia Gou Chen', 'Baoque', 'Qihai', 'Xuehai', 'Pingfan', and 'Zhuoque'. The third category of temporary illnesses involves the following four areas: 'Shang Gou Chen', 'Xuanwu', 'BaoPing', and 'Shenghua Guan'.

至於飛災奇禍，立見死亡之危災，另有危險專圖說明。此篇專論疾厄，逐一詳解，以便閱者醒眼，而容易瞭解。如未經考正者，一併刪除；或有疑案不明者，另有標點，閱者注意，以免混淆，而無一定把握也。餘非故意毀謗前人，蓋增補其不足，皆從事實之研究，證據之確實，為一定之規則，而可用也。

As for sudden and deadly calamities such as flying misfortunes or strange misfortunes, they are explained in the 'Dangerous Special Diagram'. This section focuses specifically on diseases and misfortunes, explaining each point in detail so that readers can understand clearly. All old sayings that have not been verified by me are deleted. Some unresolved doubts are marked separately, so readers can pay attention to them and avoid confusion, ensuring they have a firm grasp. I do not intend to slander predecessors, but only to supplement what they have not explained thoroughly. All the content is based on factual research and solid evidence, and can be established as a fixed standard for practical use.

一．祖脈即內屬十二層樓，為大腦督脈之通過繫，上至髮際，下至天庭，為上停之正部。其地外屬於腦海之督脈，內屬咽喉之氣管，而為內因之本病，關乎七情之傷，而應神經病。如有黃明紫潤之氣色，其人神經清而無傷，正氣充足，加以事實順遂，家庭平安。

The first "Zumu" is internally connected to the "Twelve-story Building" of the throat, and it is a series of the brain's "Du Meridian." It starts from the hairline and extends down to the forehead, located in the correct position of the "Shangting" (upper head). This area externally belongs to the Du Meridian of the brain and internally belongs to the trachea of the throat. It is associated with diseases caused by internal factors and is related to emotional injuries, and it should be considered in terms of nervous system disorders. If this area shows a yellow and bright or purple and moist color, it indicates that the person's nerves are clear and undamaged, with sufficient vital energy. Combined with smooth circumstances and family peace, it is a favorable sign.

如有黑黯枯滯之氣色，其人環境惡劣，事業失敗，憂愁鬱結，正氣損傷，此死期將至。如黑黯枯滯，下至印堂者死。如發現白慘之浸色，主刑傷人丁，悲傷過度，鬱結煩亂，而為大疾厄。如發現紅赤如火燒之氣色，主官非牢獄，氣憤不平，主沉痾宿疾，拖延而死。如發現黑慘加塵點之氣，或赤慘如朵雲之氣，皆名雜花，幾色凝結於一部，其人神經損傷，失其常度，而應癩狂昏債，失聰減智之病也。

If a dark and stagnant color appears here, it indicates that the person is in a bad situation, has failed in their career, is full of worries and depression, has lost their vital energy, and death is imminent. If this dark and stagnant color spreads all the way to the forehead, it signifies death. If a pale color appears, as if soaked in water, it indicates punishment and loss of family members, the person suffers from excessive sorrow and depression, and becomes afflicted with a serious illness. If a red and fiery color appears, it indicates legal troubles and imprisonment, anger and injustice, and also chronic, long-term illnesses that will eventually lead to death. If a dark color with dust-like spots appears, or a dark red color like a floating cloud appears, these are called 'miscellaneous colors'. If several colors gather together in the same area, it indicates that the person has suffered damage to their nerves and has lost their normal state, and they may suffer from insanity, confusion, deafness, and mental decline. The original text '癞狂昏债' should be '癫狂昏愦'.

二．祖氣內應乳部之相通繫，某地在鬢髮之曲突處，兩額角之間也，上至髮際，下至邊城，為左右幹部之側。是為內因外因之病，蓋內因主憂愁之遠，利害之顧忌，以成其疾；外因主六淫之瘟疫以為病。某地發現黃明紫潤之氣色，其人境遇亨吉，事實順利，流通之財日增，喜因之信常至，故心和氣平，身強祈安，而無病苦。

The second "Zu Qi" is located inside the area corresponding to the breasts, forming a line connected to the breast region; this area is situated at the bend of the hairline, between the two temples, starting from the hairline and extending down to the "Bian Cheng," on both sides of the head's main area. The original two places referred to as "some place" are actually errors for "its place." This area is responsible for both internal and external causes of illness: internal causes are due to long-term worries and accumulated concerns about gains and losses; external causes are due to exposure to the six pathogenic factors and epidemic diseases. If this area shows a bright yellow and purplish lustrous color, the person's circumstances will be smooth and favorable, all affairs will proceed smoothly, money will increase day by day, and joyful news will frequently arrive, leading to a peaceful and contented mind, a strong and healthy body, and no suffering.

如發現青浮滑膩之氣色，其人有外務之障礙發生，遠因之憂愁消息，主失眠驚悸之疾。如發現黑黯慘滯之氣色，主刑父母之孝服，或刑重要人丁，先有冷退之消耗，而轉成內因徵忡之疾；如橫過印堂，亦為因此項事實而病死，或為誤於藥餌而死。如發現黑黯慘滯，而加浮膩之光，此為臨時發生之瘟疫暴病而死；如浮光一線，窄而不寬，尚不至危，不過反覆久病耳。

If a person's complexion appears green and floating, smooth and greasy, there will be obstacles in their external affairs, and they will receive troubling news from afar. This indicates illnesses such as insomnia and palpitations. If the complexion appears dark and stagnant, it signifies the death of a parent, the need to wear mourning clothes, or the injury of an important family member. Initially, the family fortune will decline and money will be wasted, eventually leading to illness caused by internal factors, such as怔忡 (a condition resembling palpitations). If this dark and stagnant complexion crosses the forehead, it indicates that the person may die from this matter or die due to improper medical treatment. If on top of the dark and stagnant complexion there is a layer of floating and greasy light, it indicates sudden outbreak of plague or severe illness leading to death. If the floating light is only a thin line, narrow and not wide, it does not pose a serious danger, but rather indicates a chronic illness that will persist.

三．靈合即原名印堂，在兩眉相對之中心，內屬心臟之正繫，五行屬火，是為全面之君主，故上篇命之曰元首。如現紫潤之氣色為正色，主大吉而見喜慶。如發現黃明之氣色亦為正色，主次吉而進財祿。如兒紅赤之氣色，則為危險之事實，立見死亡之災厄，及有因失敗而自隘自刎。

The third section, originally named "Yingtang," is located at the midpoint between the two eyebrows, and internally corresponds to the heart, belonging to the fire element among the Five Phases. It is the sovereign of the entire face, so the previous text gave it another name, "Yuanshou." If a purple and lustrous color appears here, it is the true color, indicating great good fortune and joyful events. If a yellow and bright color appears, it is also considered a true color, signifying secondary good fortune, which can bring in wealth and official rank. If a red or reddish color appears, it indicates a dangerous situation, immediately leading to death, or alternatively, due to failure in business, leading to suicide by hanging. The original text "ru er hong chi" should be "ru xian hong chi," and "zi ai" should be "zi yì."

如發現青膩浮滑之氣色，主隱憂之病症，因損失而動氣質。如發現黑黯枯滯之氣色，是為水來克火，主大病災，而至不治之症。其人雖無病，如發現黑慘枯滯之氣色，亦主死亡不治之症，或為飛災橫禍，牢獄枷鎖之例，又因其災禍悲憤交集傷神而死。此為重要之第一也。

If the complexion appears green and sticky, floating and smooth, it indicates a hidden illness in the heart, caused by emotional disturbance due to loss and anger. If the complexion appears dark and dry, it signifies 'water overcoming fire,' indicating a serious illness that may become incurable. Even if a person is currently healthy, the appearance of a dark, dry, and stagnant complexion indicates death from an incurable illness, or a sudden misfortune, imprisonment, or similar events. This disaster may lead to great sorrow and anger, damaging the mind and spirit, resulting in death. The forehead area is the most important part of the entire face.

四．前衛即由天庭起，下至中正止，在印堂之上，屬心包絡之正繫，為外因之本病，見脹瞞煩悶痞塞抽痛之例。蓋即心之華蓋，而與兩脅之骨相交也。有云心痛者非也，蓋即心包絡之氣痛也。此地有黃明紫潤之氣色，其人主進職得權，常人主進財獲利。

The fourth area, known as "Qianwei" (Front Guard), starts from the heavenly palace and extends down to the middle and upright position. It is located above the forehead, belonging to the main channel of the "Xinbaoluo" (Heart Cover). It governs diseases caused by external factors, commonly presenting symptoms such as abdominal distension and fullness, mental restlessness, obstruction, and sharp pain. The original text's "zhang man" should be corrected to "zhang man" (distension and fullness). This area is the "Huagai" (Crown Jewel) of the heart, intersecting with the ribs on both sides. Some refer to this type of pain as heart pain, but that is incorrect; it is actually pain caused by the Qi of the heart cover. If this area has a yellowish bright purple complexion, it indicates promotion and power in officialdom for those in government, and profit and gain for ordinary people.

如現青浮滑膩之氣色，主煩悶嘔吐之疾，而有暖嘖便噎之病。如現黑慘黯滯之氣色，主瘟疫厲氣之痛症加以損失顧忌，氣逆上沖，則為不治而死。如有紅示之氣色，主溫熱上蒸，抽筋痞塞，而轉風浮於外之疾，則為危症不治之例，次亦重病也。

If the complexion appears green, slick, and slippery, it indicates ailments such as restlessness and vomiting, along with symptoms like belching and difficulty swallowing. The original text's "warm and noisy" should be "belching and sighing." If the complexion appears dark, gloomy, and stagnant, it suggests the development of painful conditions caused by epidemics and harmful qi, combined with suffering losses and lingering doubts, leading to upward rushing of qi and ultimately resulting in a fatal condition. If the complexion appears red and bright, it indicates the rising of warm and hot qi, causing spasms and blockages, which may further develop into diseases caused by external wind pathogenic factors, belonging to critical and untreatable conditions; even milder cases are still serious illnesses. The original text's "red indication" should be "red and bright."

五．天門即兩額角之地，上至邊城，下至眉稜，上為乳部之通過繫，下為兩腋之連帶繫，是為外因之病，而臨時發生居多數。蓋男子則為陽明之機樞，女子則為厥陰之機樞，故傳經不過，必至死亡之災厄。此地有黃明紫潤之氣色，主外庫之財源頗豐，流通之貨物頗遂，當然無病厄。

The fifth location, "Heavenly Gate," refers to the area between the two temples, extending from "Border City" to the brow bone. The upper part runs along the line of the breast, while the lower part connects the two armpits. This area is associated with diseases caused by external factors, often occurring suddenly. In men, this area is the hub of the "Yangming" meridian; in women, it is the hub of the "Jueyin" meridian. Therefore, if pathogenic factors cannot pass through the meridians here, they will inevitably lead to death. If there is a yellowish bright or purplish lustrous color here, it indicates that the external granary has abundant wealth and that goods flow smoothly, naturally avoiding illness and misfortune.

如現滑膩紅赤之氣色，主病而不危，以及有不滿意之損失。如現黑慘黯枯之氣色，則應瘟疫臨時發生之暴病，見抽筋拘彎，閉竅氣阻之例，或為霍亂之症而死。故麻衣有云：三天黑暗，病白天來。言為六淫不正之氣流行，而患瘟疫之危症。三天者，即天庭與兩天門也。

If a person's complexion appears slippery and red, it indicates they have an illness but it is not dangerous, and there will also be some unsatisfactory losses. If the complexion appears dark, gloomy, dry, and withered, then it suggests an outbreak of epidemic or sudden severe illness, with symptoms such as muscle cramps, stiffness in the limbs, blockage of the orifices and breathing difficulties, or even death from cholera. Therefore, the "Ma Yi Xiang Fa" states, "Three days of darkness, illness comes on the day." This refers to the prevalence of the six external pathogenic factors, leading to dangerous epidemic diseases. The term "three days" refers to the heavenly palace and the two heavenly gates on the left and right.

六．命門即聽官之耳突也，醫學則為頰車之後，內屬大腎之正繫。蓋其部位如耳之門，不寫先天之命根，故曰命門也。為內因病居多，外因病居少。此部為人壽徵之考驗處，再突高者，其人必壽，當至耋耄之年；耳突低者，其人壽弱，當為三十以上，五十以下；加平而無耳突者，其人不能成立。

The sixth section, "Mingmen," refers to the ear prominence located in front of the ear, in medical terms situated behind the jiache bone, and internally connected to the kidney's main meridian. Because this area resembles the entrance of the ear and is not merely the root of the Earlier Heaven, it is called "Mingmen." The original text mistakenly writes "bu xie" instead of "bu chi." This area is mostly affected by internal causes rather than external ones. It is also a place that tests a person's lifespan: those with a prominent ear prominence are destined to live long, reaching the age of eighty or ninety; those with a recessed ear prominence have a weak lifespan, usually dying between the ages of thirty and fifty; if this area is flat and there is no ear prominence at all, the person is unlikely to live long. The original text mistakenly writes "zai tu" instead of "er tu," and "jia ping" instead of "ru ping."

古法則不能滿三十歲而死。余考刻下無耳突而平者，難滿十二歲而死，可見先後之時代不同，古今各異也。按腎為先天之元氣，故應人之壽根也。如其地有青黯而枯之氣色，則其人有酒色過度，縱慾戕，發現腎弱腰痛，夢遺滑精之疾。

According to ancient methods, such people do not live beyond thirty years. I have observed that nowadays those without prominent ears or flat areas in front of the ears often do not reach twelve years of age before dying. This shows that the conditions of the past and present are different. According to the theory, the kidney is the source of the original qi of the earlier heaven, so the life root is located at the lower abdomen. If there is a dark and dry complexion in this area, it indicates excessive drinking and indulgence in sexual pleasures, which may lead to weak kidney qi, lower back pain, and symptoms such as nocturnal emission and seminal leakage. The sentence "excessive indulgence in sexual pleasures" may be missing some characters in the original text.

如發現紅赤躁膩之氣色，則其人患情慾不遂之疾，以及膀胱不化，五淋白濁之疾。如發現黑慘不潤之氣色，是為腎絕之危症，沉痾不治而死，或為臨時發生之脫陽暴厥而死。此地以黃明白瑩紫潤各氣色為吉，是為腎氣健全，而無病苦也。

If the complexion appears red and restless, with a greasy luster, it indicates the person suffers from diseases caused by unfulfilled desires, internal accumulation of heat, and disorders of bladder function, such as five types of urinary problems and white turbid discharges. If the complexion appears dark and dry, it signifies a critical condition of 'kidney exhaustion,' which may lead to chronic and incurable illnesses, or sudden collapse due to loss of yang energy, resulting in sudden death. Generally, the presence of yellow and bright, white and clean, or purple and moist colors in this area indicates healthy kidney energy and the absence of illness throughout the body.

七．交關原名三陽，即上眼皮之全部，內為肝肺相連之連帶繫，為內因外因之病。其地半金半木，而為上升下降之地。幾人憂思過度，則傷其肺氣，而不下降為病；盛怒過餘，則傷其肝氣，而不上升為病。故發現黃明紫潤之氣色，主喜慶，及旺人丁於女之例。如發現青潤自瑩之氣色，亦主平安而亨吉。

The seventh area called "Jiaoguan" was originally named "Sanyang," which refers to the entire upper eyelid. Internally, it is connected to the liver and lungs, and it is associated with both internal and external causes of illness. This area is half metal and half wood, being the place where the vital energy rises and falls. If a person worries and thinks too much, it harms the lung energy, which fails to descend and causes illness; if a person becomes angry too much, it harms the liver energy, which fails to ascend and causes illness. Therefore, if a yellow bright and purple moist color appears here, it indicates joyous events, a thriving population, and capable children. If a green moist or white bright and clean color appears, it also indicates peace and smoothness. The original text had "jiren" which should be "fanren," "yuni" which should be "zǐnǚ," and "zìyíng" which should be "bái yíng."

如發現紅赤枯膩之氣色，主患噎氣使塞，咳嗽氣緊之疾，以及風洩於外，火淫於內之病。如發現黑慘之氣色，則為金氣不下降，木氣不上升，氣機停滯，血輪停止，此為兩絕之症，故危而不治。麻衣有云：黑掩太陽，盧醫莫救。即此交關之黑色也。一主刑于女而動氣質起病也。

If the complexion appears red and dry with a greasy texture, it indicates ailments such as difficulty in swallowing, obstruction, coughing, and shortness of breath, as well as symptoms caused by external wind pathogen and internal fire excess. The original text says '使塞' which should be '闭塞'. If the complexion appears dark and gloomy, this indicates that the metal energy of the lung fails to descend and the wood energy of the liver fails to ascend, leading to stagnation of qi and obstruction of blood flow, which belongs to a condition where both liver and lung energies are cut off, hence it is dangerous and untreatable. The Ma Yi Xiang Fa states, 'Black covering the sun,' referring to the dark color in the area of the heart, which 'Lu Yi' refers to the famous ancient physician Bian Que. Another aspect indicates harm to children, thus stirring up liver qi and causing illness.

八．寶倉原名人中，即鼻準下之溝洫流通處，內屬胃腑之正繫，為外因之病。其地為人之倉廩積聚之所，谷氣命根之源，後天之脈，資生於胃故也。其部位多係痛症，又多係腹部之疾。如發現青滯枯膩之氣色，乃肝木克胃土也，主患氣痛痞脹，上嘔下痢，溼氣阻塞之疾，亦能至危症不治也。

The eighth location, called "Baocang" or "Renzhong," refers to the groove below the nose, which is the area where the flow of energy is channelled. Internally, it belongs to the stomach meridian and is associated with diseases caused by external factors. This area is the gathering place for the body's grain qi and the source of life energy, as all later heaven meridians depend on the stomach for nourishment. The conditions affecting this area are mostly painful and primarily involve the abdomen. If a bluish and stagnant or dry and greasy complexion appears, it indicates "liver wood overcoming stomach earth," leading to symptoms such as painful distension, vomiting and diarrhea, and blockage due to dampness. In severe cases, it can develop into a critical condition that is difficult to treat.

余每見女子有青滯枯膩之氣色，而有每月發生之痛經病，及差前錯後之無生育，又有紅崩白帶之症瑕病，輕則三年五年之拖延，重則終身萎弱而至死也。如發現黑黯塵滯之氣色，則為胃土不制水也，而水氣上泛，便噎消瘦，腳腫腰腫之類，均屬危症至死。

I often see women who have a bluish, stagnant, dry and greasy complexion, which is accompanied by regular monthly pain during menstruation, irregular periods, and thus infertility, as well as conditions such as blood discharge and abnormal vaginal discharge known as 'zhengjia' diseases. The term 'zhengxia' should actually be 'zhengjia'. Mild cases may persist for three to five years, while severe cases can lead to lifelong weakness and eventually death. If the complexion appears dark and dusty, this indicates that the spleen earth element is unable to control the water element, causing water qi to rise upward, resulting in symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, weight loss, swelling in the legs and waist. These are all critical conditions that can lead to death.

則又分何時令司事。如冬之水令現黑滯氣，則病重而可救；現青氣堵滯則死，雖無病亦臨時大病而死，此為人浮時症，誤於醫藥者亦多。如奉之木令，現青滯氣則病重而可救；現黑氣黯滯則死，雖無病亦臨時大病而死，此為贏弱病疾，誤於醫藥者尤多。如豆之火令，秋之金令，發現青黑三色，均為大病災而有救，不至危絕也。此地以黃明紫潤白瑩為正色，而無病苦也。

Next, one must determine which season is currently in power. If during the winter water season, a dark and stagnant qi appears, the illness may be severe but still has a chance of recovery; if a green qi blocks and stagnates, it is likely fatal, even if the person was previously healthy, they may suddenly contract a serious illness and die. Such cases are mostly due to rising water qi and are often misdiagnosed and improperly treated by medicine. If during the spring wood season, a green and stagnant qi appears, the illness may be severe but still has a chance of recovery; if a black and dark stagnant qi appears, it is likely fatal, even if the person was previously healthy, they may suddenly contract a serious illness and die. Such cases are mostly due to weak physical conditions, and are especially prone to misdiagnosis and improper treatment by medicine. The original text mistakenly says "如奉之木令" instead of "春之木令" and "赢弱" instead of "羸弱". If during the summer fire season or autumn metal season, both green and black colors appear, they indicate major illness but still have a chance of recovery, and are not life-threatening. In this area, yellow brightness, purple moisture, and white clarity are considered the correct colors, indicating no illness.

九．命符在兩口角，原名食祿二倉也，內屬大小腸之連帶繫，亦為大小腸之應證繫，左為大腸，右為小腸，為外因之本病。如發現青浮滑膩之氣色，主溼氣凝滯少腹疼痛之疾。如發現紅燥焦枯赤絳之氣色，主患火結便血，以及腸瘀腸痕之疾。惟冬之水令，現黃黯不潤之氣色，應死亡不治之疾厄，其大小腸已絕故也。

The ninth section, called "Ming Fu," is located at the two corners of the mouth, originally named "Shi Lu Er Cang." Inside, it corresponds to the connection of the large and small intestines, and it is also the area where diseases of the large and small intestines manifest. The left side corresponds to the large intestine, and the right side corresponds to the small intestine, indicating diseases caused by external factors. If a bluish, floating, smooth, and greasy complexion appears, it indicates a condition of dampness stagnation and lower abdominal pain. If a red, dry, scorched, and withered complexion appears, it indicates fire stagnation leading to bloody stools, as well as intestinal stasis and intestinal abscess. The original text mistakenly refers to "intestine marks" as "intestine traces," which should be "intestinal abscess." However, in the winter season when water is dominant, if a yellowish, dark, and dry complexion appears here, it indicates a fatal illness, as the qi of the large and small intestines has already ceased.

蓋黃為土氣，其部位屬水，大小腸為河流通達之地，土為阻塞克制之器，即克其水星之部位，又克其冬季之水令，此為重克，故可至死。其春夏秋二時亦無危險，不過疾災流連時日而已。如有黑慘之氣色，亦主大病厄，而春夏二令，可危亡不治；秋冬二令可救，而病災延長耳。

This is because yellow belongs to the earth element, while the mouth and corners belong to the water element. The large and small intestines are also areas where water flows. Earth is the element that blocks and controls water. Therefore, it both controls the water-related body parts and the water season of winter, resulting in two instances of mutual control, which can lead to death. If this occurs in the seasons of spring, summer, and autumn, there would not be such a danger; it would merely cause illness to linger for a longer period. Originally, 'two seasons' should be 'three seasons'. If a dark black complexion appears, it indicates a serious illness. In the seasons of spring and summer, it may lead to death and be untreatable, but in the seasons of autumn and winter, it can be saved, although the illness will last longer.

十．天真即兩眼之鳥珠、靈晶垣及瞳人，此為子腎之通過繫，主內因之病居多，外因之病居少。一為命門之真火，一為膀胱之真氣，即醫家謂之為君相二火是也。有氣無質，其部變幻不常，為人之生死關鍵，其中分四種。

The tenth place 「true essence」 refers to the black pupils, the luminous crystal membrane, and the cornea of the two eyes. The original text mistakenly writes 「bird pearl」 instead of 「black pearl」. This area is part of the pathway for kidney qi, and it primarily governs internal diseases, with fewer cases of external ones. On one side it corresponds to the true fire of the life gate (mengmen), and on the other to the true qi of the bladder. This is what medical practitioners refer to as the 「sovereign fire」 and 「minister fire」. It has qi but no physical form, and this area is changeable and unstable, being the key to human life and death. It further divides into four types.

第一日神脫，其神含淚無光，此為死亡之牒兆；第二曰神退，其烏珠段平日退進一層，此為死亡之證據；其三日神定，其神呆滯而模糊怒視，此為死亡之應徵；其四日神變，其神忽變而反常度，此為死亡之現象。

The first is called "Shen Tu," where the eyes contain a tearful glow but lack vitality, indicating a premonition of death; the original text's "Die Zhao" should be read as "Zhen Zhao." The second is called "Shen Tui," where the pupils recede slightly inward compared to usual, serving as evidence of death. The third is called "Shen Ding," where the eyes appear dull and blurred yet carry a look of anger, signifying the fulfillment of death. The fourth is called "Shen Bian," where the eyes suddenly change, deviating from their usual state, representing a manifestation of death. In the original text, several instances where "ri" appears should be read as "yue."

按此四者均細微，而不容易辨認，非仔細研究，則不能分出細則，蓋反常而異於平日之形式，方為確實也。其中又分三則：其一為久病之眼神，其二為暫病之眼神，其三為末病之眼神。如發生上列四項，皆為死亡之災厄，其部為先天之機樞故也，是為死亡之重要部位，其細則詳載於危險篇中。

These four changes are very subtle and difficult to recognize; without careful study, one cannot distinguish their details. One must observe them when they deviate from the usual state to confirm them as genuine. Among these, there are three categories: first, the eyes of someone who has been ill for a long time, second, the eyes of someone who has recently fallen ill, and third, the eyes of someone who has not yet fallen ill. The original text says "末病" but it should be "未病." If any of the above four conditions appear, it indicates a death omen, because this area is the hub of the earlier heaven's vital energy and a crucial part related to life and death. The detailed explanation is recorded in the chapter "Dangerous Signs."

十一．命宮即印堂之下，山根之上為腎絡，督脈之通過繫，為正肋少肋交聚之地，為亶中與膈膜兩交之應證繫，主先天之遺留病。凡父母有何種疾病，則子女繼受何種疾病也。半為內因之遺傳病，半為外因之腎氣病。如真火衰弱，而不蒸化；如膀胱無力，而不傳送，應有遺精洩氣之先天病。

The eleventh point, called the 'Ming Gong,' is located below the印堂 and above the 山根, and is the area where the kidney's collateral channels and the 'Du Meridian' pass through. It is where the proper ribs and short ribs converge, and also where the 'Shan Zhong' and the diaphragm intersect. This point is associated with diseases inherited from the Earlier Heaven. If the parents have certain illnesses, the children may inherit similar ones. This is partly due to inherited genetic conditions and partly due to kidney qi disorders caused by external factors. For example, if the Ming Men true fire is weak and cannot transform water and grain, or if the bladder lacks strength and cannot transport body fluids, there may be congenital conditions such as seminal emission and qi leakage.

又有脾土不充，清濁不別，膽氣不化，輸不力，應有痞塞皰塊之後天病。故小兒遺溺之腎氣不足，則有青筋暴露橫於命宮，否則有腎氣痛之病。成年，溼氣之凝聚為災，則有黯滯浮露於命宮。如有黑而枯色，赤而慘色，皆為死亡不治之病，或為縱慾之亡陽。

For example, if the spleen earth is not strong, it cannot distinguish clear from turbid substances, the gallbladder qi cannot properly transform and digest food, and the transportation function is weak, there will be diseases related to the Later Heaven such as blockage and masses. The phrase "transportation is not strong" in the original text may be missing a character, and "buboes" should be "masses." Therefore, if a child has insufficient kidney qi leading to bedwetting, there will be a visible blue vein across the命宫. Otherwise, there may be pain caused by kidney qi. In adulthood, when dampness gathers and causes problems, the命宫 will show a dull and stagnant color. If one sees black and dry color or red and pale color, these are signs of a fatal illness or symptoms caused by excessive indulgence leading to collapse of yang energy.

又有二十歲以上，三十歲以下之水火兩脫而死。此等危症，醫家多以年壯而偏重之，以致死亡不救他。不論已病末病，皆一體而論之可也。如有青浮滑膩之氣色，則有憂思疑慮，失眠傷陰之病。命宮皆以黃明紫潤白瑩之氣色，方為平安無病苦也。

There are also people aged between twenty and thirty whose deaths result from both water and fire energies being depleted. This kind of critical condition is often underestimated by physicians because the patient is in their prime, and they tend to use excessive medication, which ultimately leads to death. Whether the illness has already appeared or not, this condition can be treated in the same way. The term '末病' should be understood as '未病'. If there is a green, floating, smooth, and greasy complexion, it indicates the presence of worries, doubts, and insomnia leading to damage of body fluids. The命宫 must display yellow clarity, purple moisture, and white brightness to be considered safe and free from illness.

一．亶中即山根之地，更名為後衛，即印堂之護衛也，在兩目相對之中心點，為亶中胸膈之正繫，亦為腎肺之通過繫，為外因之本病，亦為遺留之病。其地氣多血少，發現之氣色多凝滯，不容易散盡。如有虛弱之病，則有青暗而滯之氣色，發現於後衛；如有驚癎之病，則有青黑夾雜之氣色，發現於後衙。

The first place called 「亶中」 refers to the area at the root of the nose, which I have renamed 「后卫」, because it serves as the guard of the印堂. It is located at the point directly between the two eyes, being the main channel connecting 「膻中」 and the chest diaphragm, as well as the pathway for the kidney and lung meridians. It primarily reflects diseases caused by external factors, as well as inherited conditions. The original text's 「亶中」 corresponds to the medical term 「膻中」. This area has more qi and less blood, so the color manifestations tend to be stagnant and difficult to dissipate completely. If there is a condition of weakness, the 「后卫」 will show a dark and stagnant green color; if there is a condition of惊痫, the 「后卫」 will show a color of dark green mixed with black. The original text's 「后衙」 should be read as 「后卫」.

如其地有赤紅之氣色，則有腎火上浮，以及家庭失火，而受回祿之災，因之而發生氣火相攻之病。如有浮膩之光，則有先天不充，酒色不節，元神損傷之病。一主病減而不痊癒，一主病痊而不除根，一主時痊時發，或久病或暫病，皆為定根之病，日積月累之例，有病根而不知者尚多也。

If there is a red hue in this area, it indicates kidney fire rising, and also signifies a fire accident in the family, suffering from a disaster called "HuiLu," and people also get sick due to the conflict between qi and fire. "HuiLu" is the ancient fire god, here used to refer to a fire disaster. If one sees a layer of floating and greasy light, it indicates insufficient innate constitution, indulgence in alcohol and sex, and damage to the origin god. These kinds of hues indicate one condition where the illness eases but does not heal completely, another where the illness heals but the root remains, and another where the illness alternates between good and bad. Whether it is a long-term or short-term illness, they are all illnesses that have taken root and accumulated day by day. There are still many people who have disease roots in their bodies but are completely unaware of it.

二．命關原名年壽，在鼻樑之中段，內屬膽部之正繫，應外因本病居多，亦有並病之根，是為谷氣消化之處。凡人之飲食強健，消化能力，必藉膽腑之火力水力，而後強健身體。故關於飲食停聚，閉塞痞脹，溼凝不化之各類，皆以此為專部，故名曰疾厄宮。古人則謂脾化飲食，胃納飲食之說，餘者之皆非。

The second "Mingguan" (Life Gate), originally called "Nianshou" (Years and Life), is located in the middle section of the bridge of the nose. Internally, it belongs to the main meridian of the gallbladder. It primarily corresponds to external causes of disease, but also includes the root of concurrent illnesses. It is the place where the body processes the essence of food. All people who have strong digestion and good appetite depend on the fire and water functions of the gallbladder. Only then can the body be strong and healthy. Therefore, all kinds of ailments such as food stagnation, blockage and fullness, and dampness that fails to transform are specifically managed by this area, which is why it is also called the "Ji'equgong" (House of Illness). Ancients said that the spleen could digest food and the stomach could hold food, but after careful examination, I found that to be incorrect; the original text "yu zhe zhi" should be "yu kao zhi."

按脾為煽動機，分別清濁之臟也；胃為倉廩地，停屯轉輸之腑也。故水氣谷氣之糟柏，皆積聚於胃中，經膽汁之水火力而溶化之，方經脾之煽動力，而清者輸入小腸，濁者輸入大腸。其果真消化力，則為膽水之溶化，膽火之蒸化，然後清濁分焉。其清者清而濁者濁，又用脾力之分別，胃力之輸，以出之。

In my opinion, the spleen is a dynamic organ that distinguishes clear from turbid substances; the stomach is like a warehouse, a腑 that stores and transports. Therefore, the residue of food and drink first accumulates in the stomach. It is then dissolved by the water and fire of the bile, and subsequently separated by the dynamic force of the spleen, with the clear part sent to the small intestine and the turbid part to the large intestine. The true power of digestion lies in the bile's water dissolving and the gallbladder's fire evaporating the substances, allowing the clear and turbid to be separated. The clear is sent to the clear pathways and the turbid to the turbid pathways, which requires the spleen's power to distinguish and the stomach's power to transport, so that they can be expelled from the body. The original text's 'zao bei' should be 'zao po'.

故人死以後之膽汁，尚能溶化五金，每一人膽，可化雙毫貳枚。故命關力量與關係均重，其氣色又十分明顯，相學家則認為疾厄專部。按一飲一食，為人生之日用常度，皆藉膽腑之大力也。其地以黃明紫潤，為健全之身體，故麻衣有年壽黃明，一歲平安之句。

Therefore, the bile left behind after a person's death can still dissolve metal; a single person's bile can dissolve two pieces of silver coins called "Shuanghao." This shows how important the gallbladder area is in terms of life and death, and how clearly its coloration appears. Therefore, physiognomists regard this area as specifically responsible for health and illness. Eating and drinking are daily routines for human life, entirely relying on the strength of the gallbladder. This area is considered favorable when it shows a yellowish brightness and purple luster; seeing this indicates good health. Thus, the "Ma Yi Physiognomy" states, "If the year and lifespan area is yellow and bright, one will be safe and sound for a whole year."

如發現青浮滑膩之氣色，則為飲食停滯，痞瞞煩脹之疾厄。如發現紅赤之氣色，主回祿之火災，亦主火淫於內，風洩於外之疾。如發現黑慘黯滯之氣色，則為疤塊嘔扼，哽噎氣痛，土不制水，水氣上泛之疾。蓋因膽汁不蒸化，脾機不煽動，胃力不輸，以致水火不濟，火土不生，土水不化故也。故膽弱不易復原，膽病不易除盡，但不至立死，又不至大凶。如有死亡之疾厄，當以別部之氣色參合，單獨命關則不至死亡也。

If the complexion appears green, slippery, and oily, it indicates disorders such as food stagnation,痞满, and discomfort with fullness and distension. The original text mistakenly writes 「痞瞒」 instead of 「痞满」. If the complexion appears red and bright, it indicates fire-related conditions, such as internal fire excess and external wind release. If the complexion appears dark, dull, and stagnant, it indicates conditions such as痞块, vomiting, choking, and pain due to qi stagnation, as well as disorders where earth fails to control water and water qi rises upward. The original text mistakenly writes 「疤块」 instead of 「痞块」. This is due to the inability of the gallbladder to transform and vaporize, the spleen's failure to promote movement, and the stomach's failure to transport, leading to an imbalance between water and fire, fire not generating earth, and earth failing to transform water. Therefore, when the gallbladder qi is weak, recovery is difficult, and gallbladder diseases are hard to eliminate completely. However, this is not immediately life-threatening nor extremely dangerous. If there is a fatal condition, it should be judged in conjunction with the complexion of other areas; judging solely based on the life gate area cannot determine death.

三．輔弼即兩眉之部，內應肺部之正繫，五行屬金，肺主皮毛故也；又為內因本病，肺主憂思故也。故名華蓋者，秀麗薄嫩而名之也；又為文采之官，故以清秀柔細疎勻為合格，以修長環曲為常度，以高起有勢有稜為奇品。以肺主憂思，凡人在滿意遂心之時間，則眉順而潤，光彩煥發。

The third part, "Fu Bi," refers to the area of the two eyebrows. It corresponds internally to the lung system, belonging to the Metal element in the Five Phases, because the lung governs the skin and hair. It also governs diseases caused by internal factors, as the lung is associated with worry and thought. It is called "Hua Gai" because it is delicate, light, soft, and tender. It is also known as the "Office of Literature and Appearance," so the eyebrows should be clear, delicate, sparse, and evenly proportioned to be considered good. The normal state is long and gracefully curved, while the best quality is when they are high, strong, and have a sharp appearance. Since the lung governs worry and thought, when a person is content and happy, their eyebrows will be smooth, moist, and radiant.

凡人在不滿意不遂心之時間，則眉焦亂而枯，直立如草，此其證據確實之處也。凡有肺病，則兩眉直堅，或逆枯紛紜；凡人憂愁過度，則傷肺葉，而兩眉雜亂枯焦，應見咳嗽喘氣，噯噫呃嘔之疾。如此部見病，有終身不痊癒者，有至八九年五六年二三年者不等。肺柔而嫩，故一時不能痊癒，蓋因短期不滿其欲也。

When people are not content or meet with unpleasant circumstances, their eyebrows become dry, tangled, and coarse, standing straight up like weeds, which is the most certain and verifiable sign. Those with lung diseases often have their eyebrows standing straight and stiff, or growing in reverse, dry and disordered. Excessive worry and sorrow can damage the lungs, causing the eyebrows to become disordered, dry, and withered, and may also lead to symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, belching, hiccups, and vomiting. Once this condition appears, some may never recover, while others may take eight or nine years, five or six years, or two or three years. The lung tissue is tender, so it takes a long time to heal; ultimately, it is because the person's inner desire has not been fulfilled within a short period.

四．機樞即兩目之全部，為肝臟之總繫，為內因之本病，憂則傷肺，怒則傷肝故也。醫家則有血氣肉風火之五輪學說，余考其意，則象其形色而立名也。凡人有氣質不舒而動怒，則神露眼圓而浮白。又八脈繫於肝腎，當然屬人之總機框，故其部只可言肝病，而連帶腎病也。

The fourth section, "Ji Shu," refers to the entire pair of eyes, which is the overall system of the liver, governing the fundamental internal disease. This is because sorrow harms the lungs and anger harms the liver. Physicians have a theory called the "Five Wheels," which includes the blood wheel, qi wheel, flesh wheel, wind wheel, and fire wheel. I have examined its intention, and it is merely naming different parts of the eyes based on their shape and color. Whenever a person's heart qi is not smooth and they become angry, their eyes will appear outwardly, the eyes will bulge, and the white part of the eye will become more visible. Since the eight extraordinary meridians are all connected to the liver and kidney, the eyes naturally become the overall pivot of the body. Therefore, this section can only be said to refer to liver disease, and it is also connected to kidney disease.

凡有血絲暴露，必現肝熱之病；血絲淫散而赤紅，甚則為火淫於內，風洩於外之病。凡現沉垢呆滯之翳影，則為寒水下凝之寒症，次為飲食動氣之血凝。其神懶定而無光，則為營衙不交，氣滯不通之病。眼神似愁似淚，則為有不遂，外邪乘之之病，或為溼氣凝聚之疾。眼神似喜似笑，則為妄念已動，慾火爍之之病，或為盛氣沖動之疾。

If there is a visible redness in the eyes, it indicates a liver heat condition. If the redness is scattered and reddish, it may indicate an internal fire pathogen and external wind pathogen. If there is a single layer of dark, dull, and stagnant shadow resembling a coating, it indicates a cold condition due to cold water stagnating below. The second cause is dietary irregularity and disturbance of the liver qi leading to blood stasis. If the eyes appear lazy and dull without luster, it indicates a disorder of the營 and 卫 (defensive and nutritive qi) not harmonizing, and stagnation of qi. The original text mistakenly wrote 「營衙」 instead of 「營衛」. If the eyes appear as if worried and tearful, it indicates unfulfilled desires and external pathogens entering through the deficiency, or a disease caused by dampness accumulation. If the eyes appear as if happy and smiling, it indicates restless thoughts and internal heat due to desire, or a condition caused by excessive anger and agitation.

眼神似仰而沉思，則為危機潛伏，而有邪行隱憂之病；眼神似退而更深，則為憤懣壅潰，而有戕脫絕之病。余考每有膀胱疝氣之病，兩眼常閉而怯視，其烏珠似黯慘而不靈動；每有遺精滑精之病，兩眼神清如秋水，其神似怯弱而浮散；每有五淋白濁症，眼神似疏懶而多定識，又似淡愁而含憤急，常喜啟而少閉也。此為機樞之應證，各病之大概也。

His eyes appear to look upward in contemplation, indicating hidden dangers, improper actions, and underlying worries; when the eyes seem to retreat inward and appear more profound, it suggests accumulated anger about to break out, leading to injuries and separation, with the phrase "injuries and separation" possibly missing a character. Upon my examination: those suffering from bladder and hernia disorders often have their eyes half-closed, with a timid gaze, and the black part of the eye appears dull and lacks vitality; those with seminal emission often have bright eyes like autumn water, yet their spirit appears weak and scattered; those with five types of dysuria and turbid discharges have a lazy and dazed gaze, as if carrying a faint sorrow and a sense of urgency, often keeping their eyes open rather than closed. These are the key manifestations of the mechanism, and they represent the general conditions of various diseases.

五．三陰在兩目之下，原名臥蠶是也，內屬厥陰之通過繫，三陰以厥陰為樞紐故也；又屬腎部之連帶繫，為內因病居多故也。蓋有心未遂，顧忌日深，隱憂日重，懼怯為人所乘，又不可明自表示，是為悲憤交集之病。如發現青膩浮光，其人感觸頗深，慾火浮動，應有腰痛膝酸之病。

The fifth section, "Three Yin," is located below the eyes, originally called "Wocan." Internally, it belongs to the system of the Jueyin meridian, as the Three Yin meridians are centered around Jueyin. It also belongs to the system connected with the kidney, because internal diseases are common here. Generally, this is due to having some wishes in the heart that cannot be fulfilled, with worries increasing day by day and hidden anxieties growing heavier. One also fears being taken advantage of by others and cannot express oneself clearly, leading to a condition of mixed sorrow and anger. The original text should read "ming zhi" as "ming bai," meaning "to understand clearly." If a green, sticky glow appears here, it indicates deep emotional impact and rising desires, and the person may suffer from lower back pain and weakness or soreness in the knees.

如現青黑交集，而加粉光之氣色，則有腎氣上沖，奔遯氣痛之病，又為淫慾過度，陽浮陽萎之疾。如發現青氣中有赤紅之點，則為膀胱淋漓，花柳下疳之病。如發現青筋橫露，主子女死亡，又因憂氣成疾；如發現青筋直露，主死血統戚屬，及母族妻族之例，又因遺累而成病。左應男丁，右應女丁，其它氣色則不應也。

If a person's complexion shows a mixture of dark blue and black, with a layer of pale light over it, it indicates kidney qi rising upward and 'benturtle' (a type of pain), as well as excessive sexual desire leading to floating yang energy and weakness in sexual function. The original text should read 'benturtle' instead of 'bendu'. If there are red spots within the dark blue color, it suggests difficulty in urination from the bladder and diseases such as syphilis. If the dark blue veins are visible across the face, it indicates the death of children and the person themselves falling ill due to grief and anger. If the dark blue veins are standing upright, it indicates the death of blood relatives, mostly on the maternal or wife's side, and the person falls ill due to this burden. The left side corresponds to male children, the right side to female children, and other colorations do not apply.

六．中勾陳在山根之側，及眼角之側，有青筋潛伏處是也，內屬肺管之通過繫，屬外因之本病，乃四時六淫之不正氣。肺為太陰之脈絡，故其部有病，則發現青黑色居多，另分浮膩沉暗兩種。如黃白紫潤各色，皆無關係，而平安居多。大抵多應傷陰而陰虧血虧三種。如發現青黑交集，而有筋高露者，則為神不守宅，夜不靜寐，及寐後失眠而神遊，多驚恐之夢，此為常度病，一時不易復原也。

The sixth position 「Zhong Gou Chen」 is located on both sides of the mountain root and beside the eye corner, specifically in the area where the blue veins are hidden. Internally, it corresponds to the lung meridian system, and externally it indicates diseases caused by external factors, namely the six abnormal climatic influences of wind, cold, heat, dampness, dryness, and fire throughout the four seasons. Since the lung is associated with the hand taiyin meridian, any disease in this area usually manifests as a dark bluish color. It can also be divided into two types: one that is floating and sticky, and another that is deep and dull. If it appears yellow, white, or purple and moist, it is not a concern and usually indicates safety. Generally, this area is associated with injuries to yin, yin deficiency, and blood deficiency. If it shows a mixture of dark blue and black with prominent blue veins, it indicates that the mind cannot remain stable in its dwelling place, leading to restlessness during sleep, even when asleep, resembling insomnia with wandering spirit and frequent nightmares of fear. This condition is a chronic illness that is difficult to recover from quickly.