Official Rank Divination

論值符：值符，官僚品秩生除謫降。螣蛇，行人遊府織造延尉。太陰，兵刑工廠錢。六合，吏禮。勾陳、白虎，總制鹽政。朱雀、元武，科道稅水利營。九地，屯衛有司。九天，巡撫。值使：休，青、齊、吳、濱海。生，幽、燕、揚。傷，豫、宋、兗、濱海。杜，鄭、荊、楚、濱海。景，壅州、堂治。死，秦、益、晉、土殼。驚，趙、迎闔。開，徐、魯、並御。

When divining about official positions and ranks, first divide the eight gods according to their respective domains: the Chief Symbol governs the rank and promotion or demotion of officials; the螣蛇 governs officials in the Ministry of Personnel,王府, textile production, and the judicial department; the Tai Yin governs the Ministry of War, the Ministry of Justice, and matters related to currency in factories; the Liu He governs the Ministry of Personnel and the Ministry of Rites; the Gou Chen and Bai Hu govern the governors-general, military supply, and salt policies; the Zhu Que and Yuan Wu govern officials in the censors' offices, taxation, water conservancy, and military camps; the Jiudi governs屯田 and local officials; and the Jiu Tian governs the provincial governors. Then, divide the eight gates according to their respective regions: the Xiu Men govern Qingzhou, Qi region, Wu region, and coastal areas; the Sheng Men govern Youzhou, Yan region, and Yangzhou; the Shang Men govern Yu region, Song region, Yan region, and coastal areas; the Du Men govern Zheng region, Jingchu region, and coastal areas; the Jing Men govern Yongzhou and the capital region; the Si Men govern Qin region, Yizhou, Jin region, and border areas; the Jing Men govern Zhao region and border passes; and the Kai Men govern Xuzhou, Lu region, and the border areas of Bingzhou.

十干：甲，督副。乙，佈政書院。丙，禮科鴻儒。丁，逃方。戊，闔開主事必成。己，鹽漕糧儲。庚，提督刑科。辛，按察。壬，清理司。癸，水利道。九星：蓬，總河操江。任，太常四廠。沖，織造。輔，翰林。英，通政行人。芮，關帥總兵。禽，撫臣。柱，副帥戎政。心，君臣。

The ten Heavenly Stems are used to assign official positions: Jia governs the governor-general and his deputy; Yi governs the governor of the province and the officials of the academy; Bing governs the officials of the Ministry of Rites and the selection of distinguished scholars; Ding governs the methods of avoiding official duties; Wu governs the management of affairs, whether doors are closed or opened, and ensures success; Ji governs the salt administration, grain transport, and storage; Geng governs the commander-in-chief and the judicial department; Xin governs the inspector-general; Ren governs the office of clearing and reviewing; Gui governs the water conservancy office. The nine stars are also used to assign duties: Tianpeng governs the overall management of river channels and the command of the Yangtze River; Tianren governs the Imperial College and the four factories; Tianchong governs the textile production; Tianfu governs the Hanlin Academy; Tianying governs the Office of Communications and the Office of Imperial Envoys; Tianrui governs the commanders of border posts and the commander of the military; Tianqin governs the important officials of the provincial governor; Tianzhu governs the deputy commanders and military affairs; Tianxin governs the roles of close attendants to the emperor and ministers.

九宮：一，河漕鹽運。二，有司。三，禮部。四，節氣申子辰巳酉丑。五，節氣四維士。六，節氣寅午戌亥卯未。七，兵刑部屬。八，鹽政。九，吏戶工。門戶：外轉責天門，內轉則地戶，年命官星遇門戶，乘天德、天乙、天馬者，升；年命刑、悖、格、伏宮，星與年命相傷者，降。三甲：孟甲，主春選、秋選。仲甲，夏選。季甲，欽取、行取。吉星值開，利推薦。凶星值闔，慎究參。

Divide the nine palaces to govern official residences: the first palace governs rivers, grain transport, and salt transport; the second palace governs local officials; the third palace governs the Ministry of Rites; the fourth palace corresponds to the triple cycles of water (Shen-Zi-Chen) and metal (Si-You-Chou); the fifth palace corresponds to the four cardinal directions of earth; the sixth palace corresponds to the triple cycles of fire (Yin-Wu-Xu) and wood (Hai-Mao-Wei); the seventh palace governs the Ministry of War and the Ministry of Justice; the eighth palace governs salt policies; the ninth palace governs the Ministry of Personnel, the Ministry of Revenue, and the Ministry of Works. The method of gates and doors: for officials transferred from outside the capital, look at the heavenly gate; for those transferred within the capital, look at the earthly door. If one's personal year and official star meet the gate and door, and also encounter 'Heavenly Virtue,' 'Heavenly Ethical Person,' or 'Heavenly Horse,' it indicates promotion. If the year and star meet punishments, contradictions, form a pattern, or fall into a hidden palace, and the stars conflict with the year and star, it indicates demotion. The method of the three jia: the first jia governs spring and autumn selections; the second jia governs summer selections; the third jia governs imperial appointments and recommendations. Favorable stars at 'open' are beneficial for being recommended; unfavorable stars at 'closed' require caution against being investigated or impeached.

論干支：時干為印日干官，納音藏化品秩看；官印相生多利益，品秩衰旺逐時探；傷符未保前程遠，傷使地方恐不安；最怕截空與刑墓，升降謫除有來源。

Discussing the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches: The stem of the hour represents the seal, and the stem of the day represents official position. Then examine the hidden elements and transformations of their Nayin sound elements to determine the level of rank. When the official and seal mutually generate and support each other, there is much benefit. The rise and decline of rank must be investigated step by step. Injuring the Chief Symbol may lead to an uncertain future; injuring the Duty Gate may result in instability in the area under governance. Most dangerous are encountering截空 (cutting emptiness) and刑墓 (crimes and graves). Once these are encountered, reasons for promotion, demotion, dismissal, or removal will be established.

論值符：值符占官品秩階，旺相休囚著意裁；誰生誰尅旁宮取，進退加臨官父諧；不值刑囚並墓陷，定然榮任稱心懷。論值使：值使從來論地方，五凶三吉各分疆；門凶得令堪終任，門吉迫刑俸不長；乘吉逢生斷顯揚，遠近勞逸與殘廢；更將祿馬考方位，入門飛伏可參詳。

On the Chief Symbol: The Chief Symbol represents official rank and position. One must carefully distinguish whether it is prosperous and strong or weak and confined. To determine who generates and supports or overcomes and restrains, one should refer to the surrounding trigrams. Whether a symbol is advancing or retreating in energy should be judged based on its harmony with the official star and the parents' trigrams. As long as it does not encounter conflict, confinement, or burial, it will certainly attain a prestigious position and achieve one's desires. On the Duty Gate: The Duty Gate traditionally indicates the place of assignment. The five凶门 (unfavorable gates) and three吉门 (favorable gates) each have their own territories. If an unfavorable gate receives favorable timing, it may still complete its term. However, if a favorable gate is forced into conflict, its salary will not last long. If it is accompanied by auspicious spirits and receives support, it will lead to fame and success. As for the distance of the place, the nature of the duties, and whether the area is broken or intact, these can also be inferred. Further, by examining the禄神 (favorable star) andPost Horse (post horse), one can determine direction. These should be combined with the entrance gate and the flying and hidden trigrams for a comprehensive analysis.

論十干：十干則分所屬宮，本宮得令始為歡；奇儀生合多獎薦，一值刑害參罰看；合處帶刑池魚咎，比旺干旺不須貪；只喜官爻奇儀旺，金章紫綬笑彈冠。論九星：九星恩難用仇分，恩星得地喜生君；吉凶大小分僚屬，仇難無侵官印欣；三方對照查沖合，旺相休廢著意尋；最宜本符星旺相，威福從君可稱心。

Discussing the Ten Heavenly Stems: Each stem belongs to its own palace, and only when it is in its own palace and receives the right season can it be happy. When the odd symbols are mutually generating and harmonious, it often indicates receiving commendation and recommendation. However, if they encounter punishment and harm, one should be cautious of being impeached and punished. If there is a combination of harmony with punishment, there may be a consequence that affects others indirectly. If the stems are merely harmonious and strong, it is not worth pursuing greedily. The most desirable situation is when the official symbol and the odd symbols are both strong, indicating the prospect of a high official position, which brings joy and celebration. Discussing the Nine Stars: The nine stars should be clearly distinguished as benevolent stars, useful stars, hostile stars, and difficult stars. A benevolent star that is in a favorable position and supports the main star is the best. The degree of good or bad fortune determines the rank of the subordinates; if hostile or difficult stars do not invade, the official star and the seal star will naturally be secure. Further examine the three directions, check for conflicts and harmonies, and carefully investigate their strength, decline, and rest. It is most favorable if the star representing one's own destiny and the chief symbol is strong and prosperous, which allows one to wield authority and have everything go smoothly.

論九宮：九宮起元論轉遷，推選所屬逐元宮；新舊起復宮局數，所治職事亦相兼；水元轉金當署篆，木元轉水俸加添；最忌官元入子舍，刑害空陷足堪嫌。論門戶：門戶內傳與外傳，年命貴人祿馬算；吉星會合指日升，凶神迫害官不遠。論三甲：三甲開合有神機，開則推選合尚遲，孟仲季兮時令斷，半開半合卦中推。

On the Nine Palaces: The starting of the Nine Palaces is used to discuss changes in position and promotions. When selecting an official position, one should check each palace according to its corresponding element. Whether a person is newly appointed, returning to duty, or filling a vacancy, these matters are determined by the palace and structure number. The duties one is responsible for can also be inferred from this. If the water element moves into the metal element, it indicates taking charge of official seals; if the wood element moves into the water element, it suggests an increase in salary. Most undesirable is when the official element falls into the position of sons and descendants, and if it also encounters punishment, harm, emptiness, or loss, it is especially unfavorable. On the matter of doors and gates: Doors and gates are divided into internal and external transmission. They must be combined with the person's birth year, nobleman,禄神 (lucky god), and post horse. If auspicious stars are present, one will rise quickly; if malevolent spirits are present, dismissal is near. On the Three Jia: The opening and closing of the Three Jia have their own divine mechanisms. When opening occurs, promotion is imminent; when closing occurs, progress is delayed. The first, second, and third (孟, 仲, 季) should be judged according to the season. If the situation is half-open and half-closed, it should be carefully analyzed through the hexagram.

論吉凶：返首兮行取升擢，跌穴兮俸深歲深，虎狂兮筮仕不利，龍走兮任所蹊蹺，得遁格利以除授，逢假局可以掛冠，三詐利求獎薦。三奇喜實，年命得喜，而上下歡悅。守門而地方稱心，三門四戶切莫刑制，符、命、天馬、私門最忌。勾、白、螣蛇夭矯，而地方有變。投江而文案關心。飛干、伏干在京科道之參罰。伏宮、飛宮任所督撫之罪尤。大隔、小隔，士民怨嗟，而居任不滿。刑格悖格，同僚不睦，而官途多歧。

Discussing auspicious and inauspicious patterns: obtaining "Wu" (青龙返首) indicates being protected and promoted; obtaining "Flying Bird Falling into a Hole" (飞鸟跌穴) suggests a generous salary and a long tenure. Encountering "White Tiger Rampant" (白虎猖狂) indicates difficulties in taking office; encountering "Azure Dragon Escapes" (青龙逃走) suggests there must be some suspicious matters at the post. Obtaining the "Retreat Pattern" (遁格) is favorable for appointment and removal of office; encountering a "False Pattern" (假局) is better to resign and retire. Obtaining the "Three Deceptions" (三诈) is favorable for seeking rewards and recommendations. The "Three Marvels" (三奇) are preferred when they are realized rather than empty; if the year and destiny meet favorable conditions, both superiors and subordinates will be pleased. Obtaining "Yü Nu Guarding the Gate" (玉女守门) indicates satisfaction with the area under governance; encountering "Three Doors and Four Windows" (三门四户) should avoid being punished or restricted; the Chief Symbol, year and destiny, Heavenly Horse, and private door are most disliked to be harmed. Encountering "Gou Chen," "White Tiger," and "Tang She Tiao Jiao" (螣蛇夭矫) indicates troubles in the local area; encountering "Zhu Que Tóu Jiāng" (朱雀投江) indicates the need to be concerned about official documents and cases. Encountering "Flying Dry Branch" (飞干) and "Hidden Dry Branch" (伏干) indicates being impeached and punished by officials in the capital; encountering "Hidden Palace" (伏宫) and "Flying Palace" (飞宫) indicates being accused and punished by supervisors at the post. Encountering "Great Gap" (大隔) and "Small Gap" (小隔) indicates complaints from common people and officials, leading to an incomplete tenure. Encountering "Crime Pattern" (刑格) and "Contradictory Pattern" (悖格) indicates discord among colleagues and many obstacles in the official career.

熒入白宜防賊寇，白入熒亦慎災殃。年月日時逢悖格，已過將來事可詳。五不遇兮難以調選，六儀刑兮任所有傷，入墓網羅居官不顯，返吟、門迫，地到不良。行使休囚，未必終任。年命刑害，豈得還鄉。大約元星旺相，又得日時相幫，年命逢恩值吉，天乙守照為祥。

When encountering "Flashing into White," one should beware of bandits within the country; when encountering "White into Flashing," one should also be cautious of calamities. If the year, month, day, or hour encounters the "Contradictory Pattern," both past and future misfortunes and blessings can be inferred from this. When encountering the "Five Unfavorable Hours," it is difficult to adjust and select an official position; when encountering the "Six Instruments Being Punished," there will certainly be damage in the position held. Entering a tomb or falling into the Heavenly Net and Earthly Net indicates that one cannot achieve prominence in officialdom; encountering "Repetition" and the gate being pressed indicates that the place of appointment will not be peaceful. If the Duty Gate is weak and confined, one may not be able to serve a full term; if the year and destiny are punished or harmed, it is even more difficult to hope for a safe return home. In general, as long as the original star is prosperous and strong, and the day branch, hour, and minute support it, and the year and destiny meet the Favoring Star and encounter auspicious deities, with the "Heavenly Trust" guarding and supporting, it is a favorable omen.

論值符：值符，問官。螣蛇，稿房。太陰，責罰。六合，吏屬。勾陳、白虎，催提、刑杖。朱雀、元武，文卷、挑唆。九地，賍物。九天，上司。值使：休，彼此一般。生，賄賂、囑託。傷，總責、喝散。杜，冤屈難伸。景，文牒轉移。死，賍執、追呼。驚，定罪、虛驚。開，訴辯得理。

When divining about a lawsuit, first determine the roles of the eight spirits: the Chief Symbol represents the official handling the case; the Snake represents the clerk who drafts documents; the Tai Yin represents punishment; Liu He represents the court attendants; Gou Chen and Bai Hu represent those who summon the accused and administer punishment; Zhu Que and Yuan Wu represent the case documents and those who incite trouble; Jiudi represents stolen goods; and Jiu Tian represents the higher authorities. Then use the eight gates to determine the case's outcome: Xiu Men indicates that both parties are equal; Sheng Men indicates bribery or requests for favor; Shang Men indicates that both parties are punished and then dispersed; Du Men indicates that the innocent have no place to appeal; Jing Men indicates the transfer of documents; Si Men indicates that evidence is in hand and the accused is summoned; Jing Men also indicates a definite sentence or just a false alarm; and Kai Men indicates that the case is justified and the person is in the right.

十干：甲，生於亥。乙，生於午。丙，生於寅。丁，生於酉。戊，生於寅。己，生於酉。庚，生於巳。辛，生於子。壬，生於申。癸，生於卯。九星：蓬，陰險星。任，遲滯星。沖，怒惡星。輔，恩赦星。英，喝散星。芮，賍吏星。禽，清星。柱，樸實星。心，喝散星。

To determine the timing based on the long life positions of the Ten Heavenly Stems: Jia is born in Hai, Yi in Wu, Bing in Yin, Ding in You, Wu in Yin, Ji in You, Geng in Si, Xin in Zi, Ren in Shen, and Gui in Mao. Then, using the nine stars to analyze the case development: Tianpeng is the star of cunning and deceit, Tianren is the star of delay, Tianchong is the star of fierce anger and cruelty, Tianfu is the star of mercy and pardon, Tianying is the star of issuing orders to disperse the case, Tianrui is the star of corruption and bribery, Tianqin is the star of integrity, Tianzhu is the star of simplicity, and Tianxin is also the star of issuing orders to disperse the case.

九宮：（原文缺）門戶：原告責天門，辯訴責地戶，吉星同天乙生合年命及干符者，吉。凶星勾白傷尅年命及符使兩干者，凶。三甲：孟甲，有驚。仲甲，易散。季甲，防險。開值吉星者，勝。闔值凶星者，輸。

The original text of the nine palaces section is missing some parts, and the content has been lost; therefore, we dare not make up anything. The method of examining gates: the plaintiff looks at the heavenly gate, and the party making the defense looks at the earthly gate. If a good star comes together with the "Heavenly Ethical" to generate and harmonize with the person's birth year and the main symbol's stem, it is considered auspicious. If a bad star such as "Gou Chen" or "White Tiger" harms or overpowers the birth year and both the main symbol and duty gate stems, it is considered inauspicious. The method of the three stems: the first stem indicates there will be unexpected events in the case; the second stem indicates the case will be easily resolved; the third stem warns of potential dangers. If "Kai" (Opening) coincides with a good star, the case will be won; if "He" (Closing) coincides with a bad star, the case will be lost.

論干支：日干原告時干被，日支時支干證類；納音所藏是問官，尅日傷時春妙文；時日生合訟宜和，時日尅制勝負異；兩支相會證作奸，兩支刑傷中證累；日干如若傷時干，原告利口多惡意；時支又或尅日支，詐證中人硬嘴利，本時干支同傷口，案倒如山真可畏，只看納音卻如何；若要助仇擬罪狀，時日兩家定高低；旺相休囚與死廢，旺氣制囚可望贏，囚來尅旺空費氣；再看納音脫何干，就裡賄賂真得計；更將年命納音查，生合干納方無慮。

In discussing the heavenly stems and earthly branches: the day stem represents the plaintiff, the hour stem represents the defendant, and the day branch and hour branch represent the witnesses. The hidden elements within the nayin sound elements of the stems and branches are the judges presiding over the case. If the nayin sound element harms the day stem or injures the hour stem, the judge will naturally write a detailed judgment. If the hour and day stems are mutually supportive and harmonious, the case is likely to be resolved through reconciliation. If they mutually control and restrain each other, the outcome of the case will be clear. If the two branches are in harmony, it indicates that the witnesses collude in fraud. If the two branches are in conflict, it suggests that the middle witnesses will be implicated. If the day stem harms the hour stem, it indicates that the plaintiff is sharp-tongued and malicious in intent. If the hour branch harms the day branch, it suggests that the false witness is stubborn and insists on his statement. If both the stem and branch of the hour are harmful to others, the case becomes extremely heavy and oppressive. At this point, one should further examine the nayin sound elements. To determine who can help and who will conspire against, one should compare the stems and branches of the hour and day to determine their strength. One must clearly distinguish between the prosperous, strong, weak, and confined states. The prosperous can control the weak, leading to a favorable verdict. The weak, if they control the prosperous, will only waste effort. One should also check which stem's energy is drained by the nayin sound element, indicating hidden bribes. Finally, one should check the nayin sound element of the year and birth, as only those that are harmonious and supportive can ensure safety.

論值符：值符占訟作問官，符宮網毋酷與貪；符傷日干責原告，符傷時干被告冤；看其誰生誰受尅，兩家勝負可分端；官符入官中駁類，官符入爻結案堪；符空入陷無準的，日下審豁未可原；朱蛇遙尅文案駁，陰六來傷樸責喧；勾白制干差役惡，前項生合死為歡；地屬有司作寇仇，時近衙門未可投；天繫上司若生合，狀投憲制可消愁；更查逐日陰陽貴；有如甲戌庚午類，幫扶生日得自由；大約用神無代制，行進起脫可遨遊。

On the Chief Symbol: In divination for litigation, the "Chief Symbol" represents the official handling the case. If the Chief Symbol falls into the Luo Wang (Net), then this official is neither harsh nor greedy. If the Chief Symbol harms the day stem, it indicates the plaintiff will be blamed; if it harms the hour stem, the defendant is likely to be wronged. By clearly identifying which element generates and harmonizes with which, the outcome of the case between the two parties becomes evident. If the official symbol enters the official position, the case will be rejected during the process; if it enters the爻 position, the case can be concluded. If the Chief Symbol falls into the empty or trapped position, the judgment lacks accuracy, and whether the case will be dismissed or not remains uncertain. If "Zhu Que" (Vermilion Bird) and "Teng She" (Coiling Snake) remotely harm, the case documents will be rejected; if "Tai Yin" (Dark Yin) and "Liu He" (Six Harmonies) harm, the person will face a scolding and disturbance. If "Gou Chen" (Hook Earth) and "Bai Hu" (White Tiger) restrain the useful god, the constables will be fierce. If these deities instead generate and harmonize, the situation will turn from bad to good. "Jiudi" (Nine Earths) represents local officials, who are enemies, so it is not advisable to file a lawsuit at the nearby office. "Jiu Tian" (Nine Heavens) represents the superior office; if it generates and harmonizes, filing the case with the higher authorities can resolve the problem. It is also necessary to check the daily Yang and Yin dignitaries, for example, on a Jia day, the positions of Wei and Chou, and on a Geng day, the positions of Chou and Wei. Any that support and generate the day stem will allow smooth action. In general, as long as the useful god is not replaced or suppressed, whether advancing or escaping, one can proceed calmly.

論值使：值使占事之起隙，各從五行分斷義；木金相交門毀嗔，土木相持田宅類；水火激搏奸盜情，旺相休囚孤謊議；吉迫先勝後必輸，凶迫理直斷作屈；必查兩干本門機，旺勝衰兮不須贅。論十干：奇儀子父與財官，年月日時十字參；事蹟須從六親論，審理時日官父干；親怕刑兮干怕隔，休囚遲速可合觀；鬼要空兮身要旺，父宜墓兮子當權；最宜恩曜臨身命，縱然險危不到官。

On the Duty Gate: The Duty Gate indicates the cause of a dispute, with each of the Five Phases taking on specific meanings. When metal and wood interact, it suggests disputes over property and mutual anger; when earth and wood are in conflict, it indicates disputes over land and housing; when water and fire clash, it points to cases of deceit and theft. Then examine the state of prosperity, strength, weakness, and confinement to determine whether the situation is isolated or based on false statements. If a favorable gate is forced, initially one may win but ultimately will lose; if an unfavorable gate is forced, even if there is reason, it will be judged as unjust. It is essential to determine the relationship between the two heavenly stems and the current gate, with the strong prevailing and the weak losing, a principle that needs no further explanation. On the Heavenly Stems: The Three Marvels and Six Instruments are each associated with descendants, parents, wife and wealth, and officials and spirits, and are combined with the year, month, day, and hour pillars. The details of the case are analyzed through the Six Relations, and the key to the trial lies in the official and parent elements in the hour and day pillars. The Six Relations should avoid being afflicted by mutual destruction, and the heavenly stems should avoid being separated. Whether they are prosperous or weak can indicate the speed of the outcome. In a lawsuit, the official element should be empty, the self should be strong and prosperous, the parent element should be in a tomb, and the descendants should be in control. Ideally, the Benevolent Star should be present in the person's destiny, so even if there is danger, it will not reach the court.

論九星：九星條分吉星生，吉星生合定稱心；凶星激伐宜刑杖，看臨何干生何刑，性空本宮居旺氣，不犯凶星理自明；若是孤星又囚弱，縱然審斷不輸贏。論九宮：九宮論訟新舊情，旺則興訟衰則停，退臨後氣事已往，進臨來氣正當興，水元轉土堪結案，木元轉火訟又生，本局還歸本局定，此局當了莫生心。

On the Nine Stars: The nine stars are each distinct and clear. If auspicious stars come to assist, then things will go as desired. However, if malevolent stars are active and cause conflict, one may suffer from punishment or hardship. It also depends on which stem they are associated with and what kind of conflict or restriction they produce. If the native's palace is in a strong position but the star falls into an empty position without encountering malevolent stars, then the situation will be clear and straightforward. If it is a single, weak star, even after careful judgment, the result will be a stalemate. On the Nine Palaces: The nine palaces are used to determine whether the case is new or old. If the palace is strong, the case is currently active. If the palace is weak, the case is about to end. If the star is retreating and located in the back position, the matter has already passed. If the star is advancing and located in the front position, the matter is currently active. If the water element moves into the earth element, the case can be concluded. If the wood element moves into the fire element, the case will restart. If the case remains in its original palace, then the case is settled, and there is no need for further consideration.

論門戶：門戶原分告與訴，告看門兮訴看戶，門不傷干原告呈，戶不傷干訴得利，門戶若是總刑格，勸君莫進公門去，官父二主制門戶，再傷年命恐囚繫。論三甲：占訟孟甲是多憂，如逢仲甲便了休，季甲當符防罪責，開符理兮合生愁，若求用甲無刑害，官雖發怒亦當投，半開半合須澤比，較合時日兩干求。

On the subject of gates and doors: The gates and doors are divided into two aspects, the plaintiff and the defendant. The plaintiff looks to the heavenly gate, while the defendant looks to the earthly door. If the heavenly gate does not harm the main stem, the plaintiff's petition will be accepted; if the earthly door does not harm the main stem, the defendant will benefit. If both the gate and door form a punishment pattern, it is advisable to avoid going to court altogether. If the official symbol and the father symbol control the gate and door and also harm the year and destiny, there is a risk of imprisonment. Regarding the three stems: When a lawsuit occurs and the stem is the first (climbing) stem, there is the most worry; if it is the middle (middle) stem, the matter can be resolved; if it is the last (season) stem and coincides with the chief symbol, one should be cautious of being punished. If the 'opening' is combined with the chief symbol, it indicates a just cause; if 'closing' occurs, it brings only worry and trouble. If the used stem is not harmed by punishment and harm, then even if the official is angry, the petition should still be submitted. If there is a half-opening and half-closing pattern, one should take the meaning of mutual benefit and compare the stems of the time and day carefully.

論吉凶：返首而原告欠利，跌穴而被告不祥。虎狂、龍走公庭有傷，得遁賄賂可勝，許假囑託備良，三勝三吉喜臨年命，得使而衙役效力，守門而陰小作殃。三門四戶切記日干時干逢悖格，經年經月始消禳。五不遇兮訟直而遭屈斷，六儀刑兮類神恐有彷徨。入墓羅網不宜占訟，反伏門迫翻案迭詳。符使休囚，雖訟而無益。年命受尅，見官而乖張。大約初入官司，喜遇官鬼興隆，久遭纏害，偏宜爻鬼墓絕。官父兩干無尅制，管取喝散喜非常。

Discussing auspicious and inauspicious patterns: If "Wu" (青龙返首) appears, the plaintiff will be at a disadvantage; if "Flying Bird Falls into a Hole" (飞鸟跌穴) appears, the defendant will be inauspicious. If "White Tiger Runs Wild" (白虎猖狂) or "Azure Dragon Fleeing" (青龙逃走) occurs, there will certainly be injuries in court. If the "Retreat Pattern" (遁格) is present, bribing can lead to victory; if the "False Pattern" (假局) is present, seeking favors can suffice for maneuvering. The "Three Victories" (三胜) and the three auspicious gates (三吉门) are favorable when they appear on the year or destiny. If "Three Marvels with the Duty Gate" (三奇得使) is present, the constables will be willing to help; if "Female Deity Guards the Gate" (玉女守门) is present, one should beware of women and petty people causing trouble from behind. The "Three Gates and Four Doors" (三门四户) require particular attention: if the day stem or hour stem encounters the "Contradictory Pattern" (悖格), it will take years to resolve. If the "Five Unfavorable Times" (五不遇时) occur, even if the case is just, it will be ruled as unjust. If the "Six Instruments Attack the Criminal" (六仪击刑) occurs, the associated spirits will be confused and uncertain. Entering the tomb or falling into the net (落罗网) is unfavorable for litigation; encountering "Return Chant" (返吟) or "Hidden Chant" (伏吟) along with gate pressure (门迫) indicates that the case will be repeatedly overturned and reexamined. If the Chief Symbol and Duty Gate are weak and confined (休囚), litigation will be of no benefit. If the year or destiny is harmed, encountering officials will lead to trouble. In general, when litigation begins, it is favorable to have the official spirit strong; when the case is prolonged and burdened, it is better for the official spirit to be in the tomb or at its end. As long as the official and parent stems are not restrained, the case will be settled with a single command, and all will be well.

論值符：值符，九天日月風雨應明。螣蛇，雷電虹霓。太陰，霜雪、冰凍、陰雲。六合，和風麗日。勾陳、白虎，呵霧、沉晦、疾風、暴雨。朱雀、元武，天鼓電雷、密雲細雨。九地，陰晴、苦寒。九天，晴空、爽氣。值使：休，白雲、甘露、苦寒、細雨。生，狂風黃沙。傷，青氣、雷雹、風雲、暴雷。杜，虹霓、閃雷霹靂。景，虹霓、赤日、炎風。死，陰風、寒凍、冰霜、河瘴。驚，狂風、霹靂雷雹。開，霞彩、雷雹。

When divining about weather conditions such as clear skies, rain, wind, or sunshine, first determine the celestial phenomena associated with the Eight Symbols: the Chief Symbol governs clear skies, the Sun and Moon, and distinct weather changes; the Snake governs thunder, lightning, and rainbows; the Great Yin governs frost, snow, ice, and overcast clouds; Liu He governs gentle winds and sunny days; Gou Chen and Bai Hu govern mist, dark skies, and heavy rain; Zhu Que and Yuan Wu govern thunder like drums, flashing lightning, and light rain; Jiudi governs alternating clear and rainy weather and cold conditions; Jiu Tian governs clear skies, fresh air, and gentle breezes. Then determine the phenomena associated with the Eight Doors: Xiu Men governs white clouds, dew, cold weather, and light rain; Sheng Men governs strong winds and sandstorms; Shang Men governs green mist, thunder, hail, and violent thunderstorms; Du Men governs rainbows, lightning, and thunder; Jing Men governs rainbows, bright sun, and hot winds; Si Men governs cold winds, freezing, frost, and river mist; Jing Men governs strong winds, thunder, and hail; and Kai Men governs colorful clouds and thunderstorms.

十干：甲，青龍、旭日、榖風。乙，青龍、和風、麗日。丙，朱雀、新月、電光。丁，朱雀、景星、慶雲。戊，勾陳、霜霧、瘴氣、迷濛、雲氣、燥溼。庚，白虎、嚴霜、暴雨，秋冬則嚴霜，春夏則暴雨，按其時令。壬，元武、疾風、暴雨。癸，元武、潔雨、虹霓、凝冰、肅氣，按其時令。九星：蓬，烏雲、蒼龍、陰雨、怪氣。任，霧瘴、風沙。沖，風沙、雹、晴爽氣。輔，虹霓、祥雲。英，彩雲、暗嵐、霓電。芮，霧氣、陰霾、黃沙。禽，晴風、淑氣、爽籟、甘露。柱，風霜、霹靂、寒冰。心，雷電、寒光、赤霞、白氣。

The ten Heavenly Stems correspond to specific celestial phenomena: Jia is paired with the Azure Dragon, governing the rising sun in the east and gentle valley winds; Yi is also paired with the Azure Dragon, governing gentle winds and bright sunny days; Bing is paired with the Vermilion Bird, governing the new moon and lightning; Ding is also paired with the Vermilion Bird, governing bright stars and auspicious clouds; Wu is paired with Gou Chen, governing frost, fog, mist, and changes in humidity and dryness; Geng is paired with the White Tiger, governing severe frost and heavy rain, with severe frost in autumn and winter and heavy rain in spring and summer, varying according to the season; Ren is paired with the Black Tortoise, governing strong winds and heavy rain; Gui is also paired with the Black Tortoise, governing clear rain, rainbows, frozen ice, and the cold and sharp atmosphere, also varying according to the season. The stems Ji and Xin are missing from the original text. As for the nine stars, Tianpeng governs dark clouds, the Azure Dragon, rain, and strange atmospheric phenomena; Tianren governs fog, miasma, sandstorms; Tianchong governs sandstorms, hail, and clear weather; Tianfu governs rainbows and auspicious clouds; Tianying governs colorful clouds, misty haze, and lightning; Tianrui governs fog, haze, and yellow sand; Tianqin governs clear winds, pleasant weather, fresh air, and sweet dew; Tianzhu governs wind and frost, thunderclaps, and cold ice; Tianxin governs thunder and lightning, cold light, red clouds, and white mist.

門戶：晴霽，責天門。風雲，責地戶門戶。合陽宮陽星晴，合陰宮陰星雨。三甲：孟甲多陰雨，合陰開時取。仲甲半陰晴，開合細搜尋。季甲晴堪許，開合從星舉。

The method of portal divination: to predict clear weather, observe the heavenly gate; to predict changes in wind and clouds, observe the earthly gate. The combination of gate and door should be considered together for a judgment. If the gate and door are paired with a yang palace and yang star, it indicates clear weather; if paired with a yin palace and yin star, it indicates rain. The method of three jia: the first jia (climax) mostly indicates rain, and it must be combined with yin stars, and the time when they open should be considered for a judgment; the middle jia (midpoint) indicates half rain and half clear weather, and both opening and closing should be carefully examined; the last jia (conclusion) may indicate clear weather, and the time of opening and closing should be determined according to the star in effect.

論干支：日干為天時為地，納音五行陰陽帝，天尅地兮風生林，地尅天兮空霧氣，天地生合論化神（如甲己化土之類），金水甘露天未霽，細雨納音生尅情，五行時令消息意，假如合水納是金，管教刻下風雨至。

On the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches: The day stem represents heaven, and the hour stem represents earth. Then take the Five Phases and yin and yang of the Nayin sound element as the main factors. When heaven overcomes earth, it indicates wind rising in the forest; when earth overcomes heaven, it indicates mist forming in the air. If the heavenly and earthly stems are mutually generating and harmonizing, then consider the deities they transform into, such as Jia and Ji combining to form earth. When metal and water mutually generate, it indicates the falling of sweet dew, but the sky still does not clear up. As for light rain, it depends on the mutual generation and overcoming between the Nayin sound elements, combined with the changes of the Five Phases and the seasonal influences. For example, if two stems combine to form water, and the Nayin sound element belongs to metal, with metal and water mutually supporting each other, rain and wind will arrive within a short time.

論值符：水局主雨金局寒，門金符水教出潭，若是金符門到水，只疑飛龍入九淵，土局陰霾未有涯，時或四野起黃沙，冬深符土門金凍，門土符金飛六花，符門之間火木局，天地晴和寔可誇，木局風生火局晴，春夏逢之斷得靈，惟懼囚墓廢時日，反致風停細雨零。

On the Chief Symbol: The Water Bureau indicates rain, and the Metal Bureau indicates cold weather. If the Gate belongs to Metal and the Chief Symbol belongs to Water, it is like a dragon emerging from a deep pool; but if the Chief Symbol belongs to Metal and the Gate falls in the Water position, it is like a flying dragon diving into the ninth abyss. The Earth Bureau indicates endless gloom, and sometimes dust rises from the four directions. In the depths of winter, if the Chief Symbol belongs to Earth and the Gate belongs to Metal, it indicates freezing cold; if the Gate belongs to Earth and the Chief Symbol belongs to Metal, it indicates snow falling heavily. If the Chief Symbol and the Gate form the Fire or Wood Bureau, the weather is clear and pleasant, which is very favorable. The Wood Bureau indicates wind, and the Fire Bureau indicates clear skies; encountering these in spring and summer is especially accurate. What is to be feared is encountering days of imprisonment, tomb, or decay, which would instead result in calm winds and stopped clouds, with only light drizzle remaining.

論值使：值使各逐本宮求，旺氣逢生從類搜，刑制隔害吟反伏，陰晴變易有來由，休囚死廢無定據，縱有風雨霎時收。論十干：三奇六儀所臨宮，陰晴尅應好推窮，惟忌背令刑墓格，時違三合究其蹤。

On Duty Gate: The Duty Gate should be sought according to its own palace. When encountering a strong and flourishing condition with support and assistance, one should follow the nature of its corresponding element to search for heavenly phenomena. If encountering conflicts, restrictions, separation, harm, or Hidden Chant and Reverse Chant, then the changes between clear skies and rain have their own reasons. If it falls in a weak, confined, dead, or wasted position, there is no certainty. Even if rain falls, it will stop shortly. On the Ten Heavenly Stems: The Three Marvels and Six Instruments in their respective palaces are suitable for investigating the correspondence between weather conditions. One should be cautious if they are out of season, or if they fall in a conflicting place, a burial place, or a particular pattern. If the hour also violates the Triple Harmony, one should seek another trace.

論九星：九星陰陽判雨晴，符泊旬空未可憑，陽星陽宮晴堪恕，陰宮陰星主晦蒙，半開半合晴兼雨，內外開闔先後評。

On the Nine Stars: The Nine Stars are divided into yin and yang, used to determine whether it will rain or be clear. If the Chief Symbol is stationed in a旬空 place, the prediction will not be reliable. A yang star in a yang palace indicates clear weather; a yin star in a yin palace indicates dark skies. If there is a half-open and half-closed appearance, it indicates both rain and clear weather. Whether it is first clear then rain or first rain then clear depends on the order of the internal and external opening and closing.

論九宮：占驗雨晴論天乙，須究五行起元例，得令失令與刑格，生尅制伏陰晴別，太陰元武司陰雨，六合白虎雷風生，朱雀蛇轄雷雹虹，勾陳陰霧曰霾取，日時月格刑悖逢，陰陽星宮雨暘蹤，九天九地奇儀到，陽開陰闔究玄宗，雨占奇儀化合神，方位時刻可詳料，白虎到巽六合干，旺相風生休廢煙，朱雀坎位武九，主勝客氣雨必然，惟有太陰並九地，或晴或雨論宮纏。

On the Nine Palaces: When predicting rain or clear weather, one must consider "Tianyi" and also examine the established principles of the Five Phases' beginning. Whether a star is in its season or out of season, presence or absence of conflicts and restrictions, and the interactions of generation and control can all determine whether it is sunny or rainy. "Taiyin" and "Yuanwu" indicate rain, "Liuhe" and "Baihu" indicate thunder and wind, "Chujue" and "Tengshe" govern thunderstorms, rainbows, and halos, while "Gouchen" indicates fog and haze. If day patterns, time patterns, month patterns, or conflicting patterns occur, one should look for signs of rain and clear weather in the yin and yang stars and their respective palaces. The "Jiu Tian" and "Jiu Di" along with the odd instruments arriving at certain positions reveal the mysteries of rain and clear weather through the interaction of yang and yin. To predict rain, one should look at the deities transformed and combined with the odd instruments, which can provide detailed information about the direction and time of the rain. When "Baihu" arrives at the Xun Palace or "Liuhe" arrives at the Qian Palace, if they are prosperous and strong, wind arises; if they are in decline, mist and haze appear. When "Chujue" falls in the Kan position and "Yuanwu" is in the ninth palace, if the local power is stronger than the external power, rain is certain. However, when "Taiyin" and "Jiu Di" appear together, whether it is rainy or clear must be judged separately based on the palace they are associated with.

論門戶：三門八宮別陰陽，奇儀加臨仔細詳，陽門陽星三奇會，斷定三光出時方，陰門陰星三奇會，會著之時不顯揚，日月星奇天門照，中宮干巽見三光，風雨儀神會陰星，來臨六合陰勢生，地四戶兮值陰宮，六儀臨之風雨宗，三奇陰星墓地戶，必主其光不照空。

On the gates and palaces: the three gates and eight palaces should be differentiated between yin and yang. When the three marvels are added to the instruments, one must carefully examine. If a yang gate meets a yang star and the three marvels, it can be determined that the sun, moon, and stars will appear in this hour and direction. If a yin gate meets a yin star and the three marvels, even if they meet, the three lights will not be bright. If the sun, moon, and stars are seen in the heavenly gate, or if the three lights appear in the central palace, the qian palace, or the xun palace, it indicates clear and bright weather. If the instruments of wind and rain meet a yin star and arrive at the 'Liu He', then yin energy will arise from here. If the 'earth four gates' are in a yin palace and the six instruments are present, this is the source of wind and rain. If the three marvels and yin stars are in a grave or earth gate, it will certainly mean that the heavenly light is obscured and cannot reach the sky.

論三甲：孟甲季甲判陰陽，須從開闔細推詳，再察符使干星類，會合時令下斷強。論吉凶格：跌穴主晴，返首主雨，躔在陽宮方晴，移居陰垣定雨，白虎狂兮立見風生，青龍走兮決然雨至，蛇妖而陰雲密佈，投江而大雨淋漓，熒入白虹霓頓起，白入熒雷電依稀，庚格陰晴疊變雨將電，日年移羅網四張，須知遍佈陰暗，時日生尅的是晴雨真機。

Discussing the three Jia (Heavenly Stems): The first Jia and the third Jia divide yin and yang, and one must carefully examine the opening and closing of the gates. Then observe the Chief Symbol, the Duty Gate, the heavenly stems, and the nine stars' nature, combining them with the current solar term. Only then can the judgment be strong. When discussing auspicious and inauspicious patterns: obtaining "Flying Bird Falling into a Hole" indicates clear weather, while obtaining "Azure Dragon Returning Its Head" indicates rain. When the stars move into the yang palace, the weather clears, but when they move into the yin palace, rain is expected. When encountering "White Tiger Rampant," wind immediately arises; when encountering "Azure Dragon Fleeing," rain is certain. When encountering "Tie Sha Twisting and Turning," dark clouds gather; when encountering "Zhu Que Throwing Himself into the River," heavy rain pours down. When encountering "Flashing Star Entering White," rainbows appear suddenly; when encountering "White Entering Flashing Star," thunder and lightning are faintly visible. When encountering "Geng Pattern," the weather alternates between sunny and rainy, with lightning flashing amidst the rain. When the day pattern and year pattern move, and the sky net and earth net spread out on all sides, it indicates dense clouds. In summary, the generation and overcoming between the time and the day are the true key to determining whether it will be sunny or rainy.

又斷：凡占晴須論符、天、朱、蛇、勾、白之神，與八門生、景、死、杜、輔、禽、英、芮，並起元於火木局，三奇得位，戊己當權，陽星開必主晴。凡占雨須看地、陰、元、白之神，與八門之休、驚、開、傷，九星之蓬、柱、心、沖，並起元於金水局，三奇虛墓，庚辛壬癸當權，陰星闔必陰雨也。

Another method of interpretation: When predicting clear weather, one must look at the symbols 'Chief Symbol', 'Jiu Tian', 'Vermilion Bird', 'Tang She', 'Gou Chen', and 'White Tiger', along with the gates of Life, Jing, Death, and Du, and the stars Tian Fu, Tian Qin, Tian Ying, and Tian Rui. The beginning should be in the fire or wood trigrams, with the Three Marvels in their proper positions, and the Wu and Ji trigrams in authority. If the yang stars are at the Open Door, then the weather will certainly be clear. When predicting rain, one must look at the symbols 'Jiudi', 'Tai Yin', 'Yuan Wu', and 'White Tiger', along with the gates of Xiu, Jing, Open, and Shang, and the stars Tian Peng, Tian Zhu, Tian Xin, and Tian Chong. The beginning should be in the metal or water trigrams, with the Three Marvels falling into empty or buried positions, and the Geng, Xin, Ren, and Gui trigrams in authority. If the yin stars are at the Closed Door, then rain is certain.

值符：值符，發朝之初氣概、雄偉、羊盾、虎皮。螣蛇，口實虛驚、奸佞心毒、委屈婉轉。太陰，小人暗算、沉滯猥小、深謀遠慮。六合，親朋招撫、和靄慈祥、易惑易動。勾陳、白虎，事多磨折、果敢執物、道路驚、凶勇威權。朱雀、元武，詞訟是非、巧辯能文、宜防欺偽、奸險陰邪。九地，宜防險阻、深機大度、陰謀莫測。九天，出谷遷向、軒昂大方、虛張聲勢。

Divination of a person's destiny begins by distinguishing the qualities governed by the Eight Spirits. The Chief Symbol signifies someone who, upon first emerging from obscurity, displays a bold and commanding presence, being tall and heroic, like a tiger wearing a sheep's shield, full of power and majesty. The Boa Snake signifies someone prone to verbal disputes and false accusations, with a cunning and malicious nature, and who acts in a roundabout and indirect manner. The Tai Yin signifies someone who is secretly undermined by villains, being sluggish and unrefined, yet possessing deep and careful planning. The Liu He signifies someone who receives support and assistance from friends and relatives, being gentle and kind-hearted, but easily swayed and influenced by others. The Gou Chen and Bai Hu signify someone who faces many difficulties and obstacles, being resolute and stubborn, encountering many dangers on the way, and possessing a fierce and domineering nature. The Zhu Que and Yuan Wu signify someone involved in lawsuits and disputes, being skillful in argumentation and eloquent, needing to beware of deceit and falsehood, and having a deceitful and sinister nature. The Jiudi signifies someone who must beware of dangers and obstacles, being deeply calculating, of great capacity, and whose schemes are unpredictable. The Jiu Tian signifies someone who rises from a secluded valley to a lofty height, being lofty and generous, but tending to exaggerate and display bravado.

值使：休，利謁見、安葬、固執事屈而伸。生，利經營、安葬、守時、鳴則驚人。傷，利捕獵、得令著損，先凶損傷。杜，利遮攔、安分、潛形隱匿、秘密。景，利投書、利見大人、文書消息。死，防縊死、收債財貨、弔喪、行刑。驚，利擒訟、聲名振世、肅殺虛驚。開，利遠行、遠圖、舉謀、營造、市賈。

The eight gates each govern specific activities: Xiu Men is favorable for visiting elders and burying ancestors, and the person is stubborn, though temporarily wronged, eventually able to prevail. Jing Men is favorable for starting businesses and burials, skilled in waiting for the right moment, and capable of making a sudden impact. Shang Men is favorable for hunting and trapping, though timely, there is still some damage, and it is first dangerous then harmful. Du Men is favorable for blocking and separating, being content with one's position, skilled in hiding and being secretive, and acting secretly. Jing Gate is favorable for sending letters and meeting officials, governing official documents and communication. Si Men should be cautious of self-inflicted death or sudden death, suitable for collecting debts, mourning, and executing punishments. Jing Door is favorable for capturing and disputes, capable of gaining great fame, but with a sense of severity and false alarms. Kai Men is favorable for long journeys, grand plans, initiating affairs, building, and engaging in trade.

十干：甲，若父兄師、高人君子。乙，如姊姑妹、僧道、藝術。丙，兒外甥佐、詩人墨客。丁，女孫使、媒妁。戊，妾健步。己，妻婢、農人、士工。庚，祖父、將帥、軍校。辛，祖母、陶冶、匠尼。壬，母、牙客、舟人、腳投、穩婆。癸，母姨、參謀、博士。

The ten Heavenly Stems correspond to different types of people: Jia represents fathers, elder brothers, teachers, and also high moral individuals; Yi represents elder sisters, aunts, sisters, and also monks, Taoists, and artisans; Bing represents sons, nephews, and assistants, as well as poets and literati; Ding represents daughters, grandchildren, servants, and matchmakers; Wu represents concubines, fast runners; Ji represents wives, servants, farmers, and artisans; Geng represents grandfathers, generals, and military officers; Xin represents grandmothers, potters, blacksmiths, and nuns; Ren represents mothers, brokers, merchants, boatmen, footmen, and midwives; Gui represents maternal aunts, strategists, and scholars.

九星：蓬，須黑肥濁、勇猛沉滯。任，矮跎跛足、偽諉詐師巫。沖，五表清奇、善辨奇律。輔，清秀、歌訣、文雅、和順。英，棗面、青須、稀髮、麻班、脫穎。芮，黑矮肥胖、拘執忍耐。禽，端正、淑慎、忠良正直。柱，長大雄狼、剛暴險惡。心，闊面、重腮、大耳、果斷辨才。

The nine stars and their corresponding physical appearances and temperaments are as follows: Tianpeng is characterized by black hair, a fat body, and a dark complexion, with a bold and fierce nature but lacking in agility. Tianren has a short stature, hunched back, and limp legs, is deceitful and evasive, and is often found among witches and magicians. Tianchong has a clear and distinctive appearance, is skilled in distinguishing musical tones and laws. Tianfu has a refined appearance, is good at singing and reciting, and is gentle and courteous. Tianying has a reddish face, dark beard, sparse hair, and a pockmarked face, with talent that easily shines through. Tianrui has a dark skin, short stature, and is fat, is stubborn but patient. Tianqin has a proper appearance, behaves with caution and propriety, and is loyal and upright. Tianzhu has a tall and fierce build, is fierce and dangerous in nature. Tianxin has a broad face, heavy cheeks, and large ears, is decisive and eloquent.

九宮：一，得令，才名雙美；失令，風流蕩子。二，得令，富厚；失令，奔馳。三，得令，聰明虛詐；失令，有始無終。四，得令，節申子辰，氣巳酉丑。五，節四維土，氣四庫土。六，節寅午戌，氣亥卯未。七，得令，威名服眾；失令，刑尅險惡。八，得時，有格；失令，執滯。九，得時，清秀文墨；失令，匠作詭謀。

The nine palaces indicate different achievements: the first palace, when in command, brings both talent and reputation; when not in command, leads to a life of wandering and indulgence. The second palace, when in command, brings family wealth; when not in command, results in a life of constant toil. The third palace, when in command, brings intelligence but with some deceit; when not in command, leads to incomplete endeavors. The fourth palace corresponds to the triplets of water (Shen-Zi-Chen) and metal (Si-You-Chou). The fifth palace corresponds to the four cardinal soils and the four reservoir soils. The sixth palace corresponds to the triplets of fire (Yin-Wu-Xu) and wood (Hai-Mao-Wei), and the third palace is determined according to the seasons. The seventh palace, when in command, brings great prestige and authority; when not in command, leads to punishments and dangers. The eighth palace, when in command, indicates a person with a clear structure; when not in command, results in stubbornness and slowness. The ninth palace, when in command, brings a refined appearance and skill in writing; when not in command, leads to becoming a craftsman or a cunning and scheming person.

門戶：榮貴責天門，富厚責地戶，門戶合陽宮、陽星、得令，軒昂進貴；合陰宮、陰星、失令，奸險小人。三甲：孟甲，多慷慨，開主武魁，合主瘦長或矮疲。仲甲，多瀟灑，開主飄蕩，合主刑害或僧道、藝術。季甲，多敦厚，開主刑沖，合主慳澀、孤獨。

The method of examining gates and doors: to determine the prosperity and status of a family, one should look at the heavenly gate; to determine the wealth and abundance of a family, one should look at the earthly gate. If the gate and door are paired with a yang palace and a yang star and are in harmony with the season, the person will have an imposing and noble appearance, advancing step by step to prominence and high status. However, if paired with a yin palace and a yin star and not in harmony with the season, the person will be a cunning and dangerous individual. The method of the three jia: those born in the first jia are usually generous. If they encounter an opening, they will be the top in military examinations; if they encounter a closing, they may have a slender or short and weak physique. Those born in the second jia are usually elegant. If they encounter an opening, they will lead a wandering life; if they encounter a closing, they may suffer punishment and harm, or become monks, Taoists, or skilled artisans. Those born in the third jia are usually sincere and steady. If they encounter an opening, they may suffer punishment and conflict; if they encounter a closing, they may be stingy and lonely.

論干支：日干為身時為命，納音之中運氣定，身無傷尅是吉胎，納音生扶事業成，得化得時不刑傷，此君名望人欽敬，最怕身命值休囚，祖產於令都無剩，納音最慮身命墓，作事多歧壽恐竟。

In discussing the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches: the Day Stem represents oneself, the Hour Stem represents destiny, and one's overall fortune is determined by the Nayin sound element. If oneself is not harmed or restrained, it is considered a good birth; if the Nayin further generates and supports, then one's career can succeed. If one receives both the transformed spirit and the proper season, and is not subjected to punishments or injuries, then one's reputation will certainly be respected by others. The most feared situation is when both oneself and destiny are weak and confined, in which case the property left by ancestors will be of little value to him. Among the Nayin elements, the most to be avoided is when oneself and destiny enter the state of being buried, leading to many missteps in life and possibly a short lifespan.

論值符：值符論人直使事，十干人物是性情，九宮起元論來歷，門戶開闔事業因，歲月日時行年命，宮分泊落細推尋，已過將來及時旺，子父財官逐類分，大凡值符怕空鄉，生平事業甚乖張，年命再值別格墓，只疑前程不久長，次及歲月日時干，不值刑格事多歡，其中有一失宮次，根苗花果分類看。

On the Chief Symbol: The Chief Symbol is used to discuss people, while the Duty Gate is used to discuss matters. The ten heavenly stems represent the nature and temperament of the person. The nine palaces are used to determine one's origin and background, and the opening and closing of the gates relate to the source of one's career. The positions of the heavenly stem of the year, month, day, hour, and the person's own birth year and destiny must be carefully examined. Past energies, future energies, and current strong energies are combined with descendants, parents, spouse, and officials, and each category is analyzed separately. Generally, the Chief Symbol is most feared when it falls into the empty palace, leading to a life of misfortune and obstacles in career. If the year and destiny also fall into other patterns or enter a tomb, the future may not be long-lasting. Next, look at the heavenly stems of the year, month, day, and hour. As long as they do not encounter harmful patterns, many things will bring joy. If any of these four is out of its proper palace, then they are considered as the sequence of root, sprout, flower, and fruit, representing youth, young adulthood, middle age, and old age respectively.

論值使：值使從來考作為，逢生乘旺始相宜，倘值刑害兼格墓，所謀未許逐心期，從旁檢點年命上，次及四干門所依，五凶三吉並空廢，休咎其間另有機。論十干：奇儀九處序六親，各從起宮辨來因，值符宮元時元旺，得符得使亨利貞。

On the Duty Gate: The Duty Gate has traditionally been used to examine a person's actions. It must meet the conditions of being supported and strengthened, and be in a prosperous and strong state, to be considered appropriate. If it encounters punishment or harm, and also forms a pattern that leads to burial, then the matters one seeks to accomplish will be difficult to achieve. One should also examine the circumstances of the year and destiny, and then look at the four dry stems each relying on which gate. The five凶门 (evil gates), three吉门 (auspicious gates), as well as those that fall into the empty and the abandoned positions, have their own methods to determine fortune and misfortune. On the ten heavenly stems: The three marvels and six instruments are spread across the nine palaces, each assigned in order to the six relations. Their origins should be identified from the starting palace. If the palace of the Chief Symbol is both strong and vigorous at the same time as the time stem, and one receives both the Chief Symbol and the Duty Gate, then this is a favorable and righteous omen.

論九星：九星自古別性情，各隨五行考羲經，孤虛旺相及年命，逐一參看自通靈。論九宮：九宮起元考繫派，會局得時多貴介，逐類用神察旁宮，作術興廢數內載。

On the Nine Stars: The Nine Stars have been used since ancient times to distinguish people's temperaments. Each is examined according to its corresponding Five Phases to study the principles of the Book of Changes. Combined with the concepts of solitude, emptiness, strength, and prosperity, and the person's birth year, they are analyzed one by one, naturally leading to accurate predictions. On the Nine Palaces: The starting of the Nine Palaces is used to investigate family lineage. Those who form auspicious configurations and are in harmony with the seasonal influences often produce prominent and noble individuals. Then, according to categories, the Useful God is selected, and the conditions of the surrounding palaces are observed. The success or failure of the person's career is clearly indicated in these numbers.

論門戶：須察奇儀分八卦，宮陷墓絕論親因，年命所欣三六會，算來人物自亨通。論三甲：三門四所合陽開，年命逢之顯者來，如若失令值陰合，作事多見巧中呆。

Discussing the gate and door: one must examine the Triple Marvels and Six Instruments to determine their association with the Eight Trigrams. Whenever a palace position is in decline or in the state of burial or decline, use this to infer the degree of connection with the Six Relations. The most favorable situation for the year and destiny is when Triple Harmony and Liu He are combined, and thus, the person will naturally have a smooth and prosperous life. Discussing the Three Marvels: when the three gates and four doors align with the yang and the gate is open, if the year and destiny meet this condition, the period of success and prominence will arrive. However, if the timing is lost and it is associated with the yin and the gate is closed, then when doing things, one often acts with excessive cleverness but ends up being clumsy and ineffective.

論吉凶：螣蛇含金憂口吻，忽然墜水生災非，太陰課體或承羞，六白臨西陰謀忌。勾陳卯位公事擾，到艮申庚門毀嗔，白虎驚柱銜刀可畏，朱雀杜景喧噪堪嫌，元武居干不能終勢，九地杜死沒齒無聞，九天開雲龍變化。

Discussing fortune and misfortune: "Teng She" accompanied by metal indicates worries from disputes; if it suddenly falls into the water position, disaster and disputes will arise. "Tai Yin" as the lesson pattern may lead to humiliation and disgrace. The six white metal is located in the west, one should beware of someone plotting against others. "Gou Chen" falling in the卯 position indicates confusion in official matters; when it reaches the Gen palace or the positions of Shen and Geng, it signifies damage to the family's home and anger from family members. "Bai Hu" encountering the Jing door and Tian Zhu is like having a knife in the mouth, which is very terrifying. "Zhu Qu" encountering the Du door and Jing door leads to noisy disturbances, which are annoying. "Yuan Wu" residing in the Qian palace lacks lasting strength. "Jiu Di" encountering the Du door and the death door indicates a life of silence and obscurity. "Jiu Tian" encountering the Open door is like a dragon in the clouds, unpredictable and changeable.

甲乙春榮，丙丁夏盛，戊己四季，庚辛旺秋，壬癸喜冬，此皆發達超群之人。至若甲得己而中正可風，乙遇庚而剛柔相濟，丙合辛而施威，丁見壬而諂媚，戊癸剛決，無緣宵小。八宮互合靄靄吉人；各宮偏黨，硜硜鄙劣；合中帶刑，美不足凶，空吉寔樂有餘。

Those born under Jia and Yi thrive in spring, those under Bing and Ding flourish in summer, those under Wu and Ji are most prosperous in the months of the four seasons, those under Geng and Xin thrive in autumn, and those under Ren and Gui prosper in winter. Anyone whose heavenly stem aligns with the season is destined to be outstanding and successful. Regarding the combination of heavenly stems: Jia combining with Ji indicates a person of integrity and exemplary conduct; Yi combining with Geng signifies a balance between firmness and flexibility; Bing combining with Xin indicates someone capable of exerting authority; Ding combining with Ren suggests a tendency towards flattery; Wu combining with Ji indicates a decisive and resolute nature, with no association with petty people. Those whose eight palaces harmonize with each other are friendly and approachable; those who establish separate domains and form cliques are stubborn and narrow-minded. When combinations involve punishment, even if they appear favorable, they cannot conceal their harmful nature. Those who fall into emptiness yet remain auspicious, or those who are grounded and find joy, will have more than enough fortune.

從其相生，避其相尅，年月日時參究，旬得龍返首而事業順美，鳥跌穴而聲名顯揚，得遁才堪權變，逢詐自能斡旋，得使急外有助，守門出入亨通，五假機緣邁眾，三勝膽畧過人，夭矯而作事虛驚，投江而文信遺失，伏干出遺財物，飛干恃強自傷，伏宮須防盜賊，飛宮事業消亡。大隔小隔，謀為不轉。刑格悖格，禍自內生。

One must follow the trend of mutual generation and avoid mutual control. One should thoroughly examine the year, month, day, and hour. In this旬, if one gets 'Wu' (青龙返首), one's career will be smooth and complete; if one gets 'Flying Bird Falls into a Hole' (飞鸟跌穴), one's reputation will be prominent. If one encounters the 'Dun' pattern, one's ability to adapt is sufficient; if one meets a deceitful situation, one can easily mediate. If one gets 'Three Marvels in Command' (三奇得使), one will have external help in times of crisis; if one gets 'Jade Maiden Guards the Gate' (玉女守门), one's entry and exit will be unimpeded. If one gets 'Five Falsehoods' (五假), one's opportunities surpass ordinary people; if one gets 'Three Victories' (三胜), one's courage, insight, and strategy are outstanding. If one meets 'Teng She Twists and Turns' (螣蛇夭矫), one often faces unnecessary worries; if one meets 'Cuckoo Falls into the River' (朱雀投江), documents and letters are easily lost. If one encounters 'Hidden Dryness Pattern' (伏干格), one will suffer financial loss and loss of property; if one meets 'Flying Dryness Pattern' (飞干格), one will suffer from overconfidence and self-injury. If one meets 'Hidden Palace Pattern' (伏宫格), one must beware of thieves; if one meets 'Flying Palace Pattern' (飞宫格), one's career will be destroyed. If one meets 'Great Gap' (大隔) or 'Small Gap' (小隔), one's plans will not progress quickly. If one meets 'Crime Pattern' (刑格) or 'Contradiction Pattern' (悖格), misfortunes will arise from within the family.

白入熒宜防外敵，熒入白仇敵自亡，龍逃防身災晦，虎狂恐物乖張，五不遇舉事蹭蹬，羅網張出入宜防。六儀擊刑，凶災各別。三奇入墓，圖謀不揚。反吟伏吟多啾唧，吉凶門迫果非祥，天馬吉門臨命上，策驥生方永無殃。

When "White enters Fluorescent," one should beware of enemies from outside; when "Fluorescent enters White," the enemy will instead be defeated on their own. When "Azure Dragon flees," one should be cautious of personal misfortunes; when "White Tiger rages," there is fear of losing property and things going awry. When "Five Unfavorable Times" occur, all undertakings will be unsmooth. The Heavenly Net and Earthly Net are spread out, so one should be careful when going in and out. When "Six Instruments strike punishment," each has its own misfortune. When the Three Marvels enter the tomb, the affairs one plans will not be able to take off. When "Return Chant" or "Hidden Chant" occur, there will be continuous trivial troubles; when a favorable gate is forced by a凶门, it is indeed not a good omen. If "Heavenly Horse" and a favorable gate are present over one's destiny, it is like riding a horse toward a prosperous direction, ensuring a lifetime free from calamities.

又訣：凡占造化，須看其本命行年屬何卦氣，當令失令，以斷其生平之吉凶。次及本日干支之納，正時干支之納，生旺尅制何如，以斷其目下事業興衰。值符起元何宮元，屬本宮何親，今行何卦，旺相生尅何如，其子入父垣，妾讓妻位，從中斟酌，自得消息。再詳值使，以定眼前之作為，會合年命以觀其變化之神妙。如父占子則看兒舍，夫占妻則論妻神，遂得所值之星，以察其心事、人品，更加詳於門戶開合，三甲陰陽，自當得其玄妙矣。

There is another rule: when predicting a person's fate throughout their life, one must first determine which trigram's energy their birth year and current year belong to, whether it is in its season or out of season, and thus judge their overall fortune and misfortune. Next, examine the nayin sound element of the day stem and branch, and the nayin sound element of the hour stem and branch, to see if they are generating, flourishing, or conflicting with each other, thereby determining the current success or decline in one's career. Then look at the 'chief symbol' starting from which palace, and which of the six relations the palace belongs to, and where it is now in the trigram sequence, whether it is flourishing or in conflict. For example, if the son's trigram enters the parents' domain, the妾 position is given to the wife's position, one can carefully consider these details and naturally understand the situation. Further examine the 'duty gate' to determine current actions, combining with the year and birth year, one can perceive the subtle changes. For instance, if a father is consulting about his son, he should look at the sons' position; if a husband is consulting about his wife, he should consider the wife's deity. By obtaining the stars in effect, one can understand the person's thoughts and character. If one also carefully examines the opening and closing of doors and the yin and yang of the three stems, one can naturally grasp the profound mysteries.