Wuqu holds himself, surprised at Han Peng's lack of ambition.

至惡之殺，亡神是也，至吉之殺，祿元是也。亡神附祿元化為武曲星，命中得之，反訝韓信彭越謾雄也。

The most terrifying killer is the Wangshen, while the most auspicious deity is the "Lu Yuan," which is the Lu Spirit of one's birth destiny. When the Wangshen attaches itself to the Lu Yuan, it transforms into the Wuqu Star. Those who have this combination in their destiny possess great abilities, which surprises even famous generals like Han Xin and Peng Yue, whose reputations are nothing compared to their actual capabilities.

亡神為天宮符，亦名貫索星，更附凶神者，必被人傷害或傷害人。（並壺中子）亡神貪狼手持印，好酒多妄為寡言，卻宜符咒與師巫，若在臨官色尤緊。亡神屬貪狼星，持印被髮，如此殺帶滋助，或命入局，則作旌旗，雖耽酒而不失禮，命不好，則多詐妄，宜學師巫符呪也。（沉芝源髓）

Wangshen is also called Guansuo Star; if it is combined with other malevolent deities, the person is either harmed by others or tends to harm others. This is from the Hu Zhong Zi. The rhyme says: Wangshen is like the Star of Romance and Desire holding a seal, loving to drink alcohol, acting recklessly, and speaking little, thus being suitable for a career in divination and spellcasting; if it falls in the position of Officialdom, the tendency towards alcohol and lust becomes especially severe. The Chén Zhī Yuán Měi explains: Wangshen belongs to the Star of Romance and Desire, appearing as someone holding a seal and with disheveled hair; if this deadly star receives support or the birth chart forms a special pattern, it can become a great general commanding banners and flags, although it has a fondness for alcohol, it still maintains proper decorum; if the birth chart is not favorable, it becomes cunning and deceptive, thus being suitable for studying divination and spellcasting.

亡神殺若人遇之，主破業孤立，貴人扶之，或有顯位，然多主流遷，常防闇昧之災，凝神子云：善莫善於將星，惡莫惡於亡神，行年至此，多逢賊盜，或婦人致災也。（三星鈐）

When a person encounters the Wangshen star, it indicates the decline of family fortune and isolation without support. However, if supported by the Nobleman, they may attain a high position, but mostly have to move frequently and constantly guard against hidden calamities. Ningshizi said: the best is the General Star, and the worst is Wangshen. When the flow year arrives here, there are often thieves or troubles caused by women. This statement comes from the "Sanxing Qian."

如巳酉丑三位全，又有一位在申上者，必主極刑，如玉黼，乙未年，乙亥月，丙寅日，辛卯時，丙寅胎，亥卯未全，又見兩寅，戚世顯癸丑年，丁巳月，丁酉日，戊申時，戊申胎，巳酉丑全，又見兩神亡神聚會，雖貴顯，終被極刑，故一位二位猶輕，三位四位必主刑獄。（廣錄）

If the three branches of巳, 酉, and 丑 are all present, and there is also a branch on 申, one will certainly suffer extreme punishment. For example, the fate of Yu Fu: born in the year of Yiwei, month of Yihai, day of Bingyin, and hour of Xinmao, with the胎元 of Bingyin. The branches of 亥, 卯, and 未 are all present, and there are also two 寅. Another example is Qi Shixian: born in the year of Guichou, month of Dingsi, day of Dingyou, and hour of Wushen, with the胎元 of Wushen. The branches of 巳, 酉, and 丑 are all present, and there are also two Wangshen gathered together. These two people, although of high status, were ultimately executed. Therefore, having one or two Wangshen is still relatively light, but having three or four will certainly bring about punishment and legal troubles. This statement is from the "Broad Records."

林開五命云：屬毛頭星。

"The Yuanchen" is a malevolent spirit that belongs to the "Maotou Star" in the system of star mansions.

元辰大耗者，陽男陰女，在沖前一位支辰，陰男陽女，在沖後一辰，主人形狽古樸，聲音沉濁，生旺落魄，大度不別是非。死絕則寒薄狽猥，不識羞辱，一生無成，貪飲好情，與官符併，多招無辜之撓，帶劫殺，則不循細行動招危辱。與空亡併，則為貧賤，婦人得之，姦淫私通。（燭神經）

Yuanchen is also called "Da Hao". For a man born in a yang year, and a woman born in a yin year, take the branch that is in opposition to their destiny and count one before it. For a man born in a yin year, and a woman born in a yang year, take the branch in opposition to their destiny and count one after it. Those who carry Yuanchen have an old-fashioned appearance and a deep, muffled voice. If they are in a prosperous and flourishing place, they may be free-spirited and have a broad mind, not being overly concerned with right and wrong. However, if they are in a dead or declining place, they may be poor and unrefined, lacking shame, achieving nothing in life, and being fond of drinking and indulging in lust. When Yuanchen appears together with Guanfu, it often brings about unwarranted disturbances. If it is accompanied by Jie Sha, the person tends to be careless about details and may frequently cause danger and disgrace. When Yuanchen appears together with Kongwang, the person becomes a poor and lowly individual. Women who carry Yuanchen are often involved in immoral relationships. This statement is from the "Zhu Jing Jing".

方朔曰：宣父畏其元辰，何也？仲舒曰：元辰所以為凶者當氣沖之地，左皼則風殺在右，故陰男陽女，在沖後一辰，右皼則風殺在左，故陽男陰女，在沖前一辰，若歲運臨之，如物當風，動搖顛倒，不得寧息，不有內疾，必有外難。雖雖富貴崇高，勢位炎盛，大運逢之，十年可畏。立朝定當竄逐，居家必罹凶咎，縱有吉神扶持，不免災禍倚伏。尤忌先吉後凶，發亡之後，欲出未出之際，禍不可逃也。（閻東叟書）

Dongfang Shuo asked: Why did Confucius fear Yuanchen? Dong Zhongshu answered: Yuanchen is considered凶 because it is at the point where the vital energies clash. When the left side is active, the wind killing force falls on the right side, so for males born in a yin year and females born in a yang year, they take the position after the clash. When the right side is active, the wind killing force falls on the left side, so for males born in a yang year and females born in a yin year, they take the position before the clash. Once the current year's destiny arrives, a person is like an object standing in the wind, swaying and overturned, unable to find peace. If no internal illness occurs, there must be external calamities. Even if one is wealthy and powerful, with great authority, when the big destiny meets Yuanchen, these ten years are very dangerous: officials in the government will surely be demoted or exiled, and those at home will not be spared from misfortune. Even with auspicious deities supporting, disaster still lies hidden. It is especially forbidden to have good fortune first and then misfortune. When the destiny is about to end but has not yet come, this calamity cannot be avoided. This statement comes from the book "Yan Dongshou Shu."

常術云：鼠忌羊頭上，牛【嗔】馬不耕，虎憎雞觜塹，猴冤兔不平，龍嫌豬面黑，蛇驚犬吠聲。然而未分男女。元辰陽男陰女，則沖前一辰是。珞琭子以謂宣父畏其元辰，則其為災禍甚重。李虛中林開以元辰為惡殺，有互換遇者，參政巫伋，己卯年，壬申月，己巳日，申戌時，樞密滕康乙丑年，壬午月，乙丑日，壬午時，豈不是犯元辰也。李吉甫曰：大凡貴命須逢殺，即得君上橫升拔，若無殺助何為緊，一世為官無職業，即此推之。林開執一隅見之也。（廣信集）

In general, the manuals say that the rat dislikes the sheep, the ox is annoyed by the horse, the tiger hates the chicken, the monkey and the rabbit are enemies, the dragon dislikes the pig, and the snake is startled by the dog. These are only the general combinations, without distinguishing between male and female. The correct method for the yuan chen is that in a yang year, the male takes the preceding trigram, and in a yin year, the female takes the preceding trigram. The Luolu Zi says that Confucius feared the yuan chen, showing the serious calamity it brings. Li Xuzhong and Lin Kai both regarded the yuan chen as an evil star. There are also examples where the male and female are reversed: Wu Ji's birth was in the year of Ji Mao, month of Ren Shen, day of Ji Si, and hour of Shen Xu; and滕 Kang's birth was in the year of Yi Chou, month of Ren Wu, day of Yi Chou, and hour of Ren Wu. These all committed the yuan chen. However, Li Jigou said that generally, noble destinies must meet the killing star to be promoted by the emperor; if there is no killing star to assist, how can one be distinguished? Perhaps one would never hold an official position. According to this reasoning, Lin Kai's view is too narrow. This statement comes from the Guangxinji.

元辰者，假令甲子生男，與甲午對沖，即乙未為正元辰，丁未，己未，辛未，癸未，為半元辰，若人遇之，主流遷邊戌，多有口舌、虎狼之災。女人逢之，主有產厄。（三命鈐）

The method of calculating the "Yuanchen" is as follows: for a man born in the Jiazi year, his destiny is in conflict with Jiawu, so Yiwei is his "Zheng Yuanchen," while Dingwei, Jiwei, Xinwei, and Guiwei are considered "Ban Yuanchen." If a person encounters these, it indicates being exiled to remote areas, serving as a戍 guard, and facing many disputes and injuries from tigers and wolves. For women encountering Yuanchen, it signifies danger during childbirth. This statement is from the "Sanming Qian."

羊刃者，祿前一辰是也，過越其分，如羊之在刃，主人眼露性急，兇暴親近惡黨，生旺稍可，死絕尤甚，在五行敗地逢之，多患瘰癧，或癉瘇，金刀之災，不以貴賤，多冗雜勞迫，少得安逸人。

The Yangren is the preceding earthly branch of the Lu Spirit, and its energy exceeds its proper measure, just like a sheep being led to the butcher's knife. People with Yangren tend to have protruding eyes, a quick temper, and are fierce and prone to associating with wicked people. If Yangren is in a flourishing and vigorous position, the effects are somewhat less severe, but if it is in a dead or exhausted position, the consequences are worse. If Yangren appears in a position of decline within the Five Phases, the person is likely to suffer from neck tuberculosis or swelling diseases, and may also suffer from injuries caused by sharp objects. Whether rich or poor, such people usually have many affairs and are constantly burdened, rarely enjoying a peaceful and comfortable life.

甲人見丁，乙人見庚，丙人見甲，丁人見戊，戊人見戊，己人見辛，庚人見乙，辛人見戊，壬人見壬，癸人見乙。若人重犯，身有殘疾，官祿失退，旺財在晚年，循祿前一干是也。（神白經）袁天罡太乙經云：六甲生人逢丁卯，為真羊刃，餘卯為偽偏刃，他準此。

The true Yangren is determined by matching the day stem with the heavenly stem: for Jia day master, it is Ding; for Yi day master, it is Geng; for Bing day master, it is Jia; for Ding day master, it is Wu; for Wu day master, it is Wu; for Ji day master, it is Xin; for Geng day master, it is Yi; for Xin day master, it is Wu; for Ren day master, it is Ren; for Gui day master, it is Yi. If a person repeats this, they may suffer from physical disabilities, lose their official position and salary, and their wealth will only flourish in old age. The method is to take the heavenly stem preceding the Lu Spirit. This statement comes from the Sheng Bai Jing. Yuan Tiangang's Tai Yi Jing says that for those born on the six Jia days, encountering Ding Mao is considered true Yangren, while encountering Mao on other days is considered false Yangren. The same rule applies to other day stems.

丙午丁未戊午己未壬子癸丑。以上，日主損妻，時損子。

"The Self-Inflicted" consists of six heavenly stems and earthly branches: Bingwu, Dingwei, Wuwu, Jiwei, Renzi, and Guichou. If it falls on the day pillar, it indicates harm to the wife; if it falls on the hour pillar, it indicates harm to the children.

丙子丁丑戊子己丑壬午癸未。以上多帶血疾，其餘同自刃災福，又云：祿前一辰為羊刃，對處是飛刃。沉芝源髓云：飛刃，羊刃對沖取也。紫微太乙局云：羊刃對宮名飛刃，有人犯者著血光來，日上克妻時克子，破皮痔漏不寧災。又云：小人主杖刑。

The "Fei Ren" consists of six heavenly stems and earthly branches: Bingzi, Dingchou, Wuzi, Jichou, Renwu, and Guiwei. People who have this are prone to diseases involving bleeding. The rest of the fortune implications are the same as those of the self-ren. Another explanation says that the Fei Ren is the opposing position of the Yang Ren. The "Chen Zhi Yuan Jiu" states that the Fei Ren is the opposite position of the Yang Ren. The "Zi Wei Tai Yi Ju" says that the opposite position of the Yang Ren is called the Fei Ren. When someone is afflicted by it, there will be blood-related calamities. If it falls on the day pillar, it harms the spouse; if it falls on the hour pillar, it harms the child. It can also cause skin injuries and hemorrhoids, leading to discomfort. It also says that ordinary people who are afflicted by it may suffer from being beaten with sticks.

甲人己卯，乙人戊辰，丙人庚午，丁人辛未，戊人壬午，己人癸亥，庚人乙酉，辛人甲戌，壬人丙子，癸人丁丑。又名銷鎔殺，主財賄歇滅，常人以屠沽刃鋸等事為業，或因被盜而致命者有矣。

"The 'Blade Head Wealth' is determined by matching the day stem with its corresponding stem and branch: the day stem Jia pairs with Jimao, Yi with Wuchen, Bing with Gengwu, Ding with Xinwei, Wu with Renwu, Ji with Guihai, Geng with Yiyou, Xin with Jiaxu, Ren with Bingzi, and Gui with Dingchou. It is also known as 'Melting Killer,' indicating wealth being consumed like metal being melted. Common people often engage in occupations such as butchery, selling alcohol, or using tools like knives and saws for a living. Some may even meet their demise due to robbery."

甲人辛卯，乙人庚辰，丙人壬午，丁人癸未，戊人甲午，己人乙未，庚人丁酉，辛人丙戌，壬人戊子，癸人己丑。以上又名持刀殺，主人不令終，雖入貴格，亦不測，甲乙人見之尤緊，多腦疽發背而終。（並廣信集）

The "Blade Head Ghost" is determined by matching the day stem with the heavenly stem and earthly branch. For a Jia day stem, it pairs with Xinmao; for a Yi day stem, it pairs with Gengchen; for a Bing day stem, it pairs with Renwu; for a Ding day stem, it pairs with Guiwei; for a Wu day stem, it pairs with Jiawu; for a Ji day stem, it pairs with Yiwei; for a Geng day stem, it pairs with Dingyou; for a Xin day stem, it pairs with Bingxu; for a Ren day stem, it pairs with Wuzi; and for a Gui day stem, it pairs with Jichou. It is also known as the "Cutting Killer," indicating that the person is likely to die an untimely death. Even if their destiny is of high status, they may still suffer from accidents. This is particularly important for those born on Jia or Yi days, who are mostly likely to die from brain abscess or back sores. This statement comes from the "Guangxin Ji."

血刃者祿前一辰是也。如丙午人帶多丙戊來，卻不於日時帶巳來，不作血刃，餘彷此。（林開五命）

"The blood blade" also takes the Heavenly Stem preceding the Lu Spirit. For example, a person born in the Bingwu year has many instances of Bing and Wu in their fate, but if the day pillar or hour pillar does not carry Si, then it is not considered blood blade. Other cases are to be judged in the same way. This statement comes from "Lin Kai Wu Ming."

甲寅虎兔相蝕，甲辰龍兔不蝕，甲午馬兔不蝕，甲申猴兔不蝕，甲戌狗兔相蝕，甲子鼠兔不蝕。其餘九介干前皆彷此，見所蝕食月稍可，日時至危，若見兩重更值空亡，設非相蝕，亦犯徙罪，不然須是重病可免。（金書命訣）生逢羊刃食神凶，至老終期不善終，若在日時憂早世，臨其年月晚年逢。（八字金書）

"The concept of 'Yangren (sheer) mutual erosion' compares six Jia days with the卯 rabbit, which represents the Yangren of Jia. On Jiayin day, the寅 tiger and卯 rabbit mutually erode each other; on Jiachen day, the辰 dragon and卯 rabbit do not erode each other; on Jiawu day, the午 horse and卯 rabbit do not erode each other; on Jiashen day, the申 monkey and卯 rabbit do not erode each other; on Jiaxu day, the戌 dog and卯 rabbit mutually erode each other; on Jiazi day, the子 rat and卯 rabbit do not erode each other. The same method applies to the Yangren of the other nine heavenly stems. The image of mutual erosion appearing in the month pillar is relatively mild, but if it appears in the day pillar or hour pillar, it is extremely dangerous. If two instances occur and they coincide with Kongwang (void), even without mutual erosion, one will still suffer from exile or punishment. Otherwise, one must suffer a serious illness to overcome the consequences. This statement comes from the 'Jin Shu Ming Jue' (Golden Book of Fate). The 'Ba Zi Jin Shu' (Eight Characters Golden Book) also says: being born with Yangren and encountering the food god is the most dangerous, and one will ultimately not have a good ending in old age. If it appears in the day pillar or hour pillar, one should worry about an early death; if it appears in the year pillar or month pillar, it will affect one's later years."

或謂祿前一辰為羊刃，何也？希尹曰：陰陽萬物之理，皆惡極盛，當其極處，火則焦滅，水則湧竭，金則折缺，土則崩裂，木則摧折，故既盛而未極，則為福，已極而將反則為凶，極盛之地，十干正中處是也。卯者甲之正位，為陽木這極，辰者乙是正位，為陰木之極，午者丙是正位，為陽火之極，未者丁之正位，為陰火之極，酉者庚之正位，為陽金之極，戌者辛之正位，為陰金之極，子者壬之正位，為陽水之極，丑者癸之正位，為陰水之極，當其極處，其氣剛烈暴戾而不和，所以祿前一辰為羊刃，其既盛而未極，則溫柔和易，故刃後一辰為祿也。

Someone asked: Why is the position before the Lu Spirit called Yangren? Xi Yin answered: The principle of yin and yang and all things, detest the extreme of fullness. When something reaches its peak, fire burns out, water overflows and dries up, metal breaks and becomes defective, earth collapses and cracks, and wood breaks and snaps. Therefore, when the momentum is strong but has not yet reached its peak, it becomes a blessing; when it has reached its peak and is about to reverse, it becomes a calamity. The place of extreme fullness is precisely the original position of each of the ten heavenly stems:卯 is the original position of 甲, representing the extreme of yang wood; 辰 is the original position of 乙, representing the extreme of yin wood; 午 is the original position of 丙, representing the extreme of yang fire; 未 is the original position of 丁, representing the extreme of yin fire; 酉 is the original position of 庚, representing the extreme of yang metal; 戌 is the original position of 辛, representing the extreme of yin metal; 子 is the original position of 壬, representing the extreme of yang water; 丑 is the original position of 癸, representing the extreme of yin water. When it reaches its peak, the energy is fierce and violent, not harmonious, so the position before the Lu Spirit is called Yangren; whereas when it is strong but not yet at its peak, it is gentle and harmonious, so the position after Yangren is the Lu Spirit.

凡見羊刃最凶殺也。然貴人乘馬而前視羊刃者反為貴格，蓋殺服其貴，而況處馬前則受制可知，假令庚午人，得乙酉月，或乙酉己酉日而時甲申，為入格。午馬在申，庚祿在申，乙巳貴在申，庚羊刃在酉，卻貴人乘乙巳甲申為驛馬，而前視羊刃，故曰攬轡澄清，此格多為清嚴之官，若更再吉殺，類多為酷吏，能制奸宄，甲申人得卯月而再見辛卯日時，內中有寅字者，亦入此格也。（玉霄寶鑑）

In a person's destiny, encountering the Yangren (shear) is originally the most dangerous and harmful. However, if the Nobleman (Guiren) rides the Post-horse (Yimǎ) and watches over the Yangren from ahead, it actually becomes a noble pattern. This is because the harmful force is subdued by the noble aura, and since the Yangren comes before the Post-horse, it is clearly subject to its control. For example, a person born in the year of Gengwu who has the month of Yiyou, or a day of Yiyou or Jiyou with the hour pillar of Jiashen, is considered to have this pattern: the Post-horse of the year Gengwu is in the position of Shen, the禄 (favorable position) of Geng is also in Shen, the Nobleman of Yi is also in Shen, and the Yangren of Geng is in You. The Nobleman rides the Post-horse of Yi and Jiashen to look directly at the Yangren, hence the term "Lanpei Qingcheng." People with this pattern often hold clear and upright official positions; if they also have other harmful elements, they may become harsh officials but are able to suppress wicked people. A person born in the year of Jiashen who has the month of Mao, and the day or hour pillar also has Xinmao, with the character Yin in between, is also considered to have this pattern. This statement comes from the "Yuzhao Baodian."

凡羊刃遇福貴，則為權謀，為武勇，若遇凶惡，則為刑傷，為凶災。（廣錄）羊刃殺遇之者主少年食祿，尋既疏失，一生凶惡，財物聚散，狐獨須防口舌刑獄之厄，若為僧道，主有藝術。（三命鈐）

Whenever the Yangren meets the gods of fortune and noble energy, it transforms into strategy and martial courage; when it meets evil spirits, it becomes injuries and calamities. This statement is from the "Broad Record." The "Three Fate Keys" says: those who encounter Yangren and killing stars in their fate will haveofficial stipend to sustain them in their youth, but then neglect and lose it, leading to a lifetime of fierce temper, wealth that comes and goes, loneliness, and need to beware of disputes and legal troubles; if they become monks or Taoists, they may acquire a particular skill.

凡羊刃不惟三命在日時上主克妻害子，若日時羊丸朝年，名曰倒懸羊刃，日曰日殺歸年，時曰時殺歸年，皆主凶，若帶寅午戌支者，名曰倒戈刃，主頭面腰足之病，多招毒藥。庚戌，辛酉，戊午，己未，丙午，丁未，甲辰，乙卯，壬子，癸丑，名曰連珠刃，俱凶象也。庚戌，辛酉緊，甲辰乙卯慢，女命犯連珠刃者，定主剋夫、害子、不貞潔之事。不然自刃夭，帶懸針，主刺面。（廣信集）

The Yangren (羊刃) is not only found on the day pillar and hour pillar of the three life pillars, where it can cause harm to the wife and children. If the Yangren on the day pillar or hour pillar faces back towards the year pillar, it is called 'reversed Yangren (倒悬羊刃)'. If it falls on the day pillar, it is called 'day killer returning to the year (日杀归年)', and if it falls on the hour pillar, it is called 'hour killer returning to the year (时杀归年)', both of which are ominous. If it is accompanied by the branches寅 (Yin), 午 (Wu), and 戌 (Xu), it is called 'reversed sword (倒戈刃)', which can cause illness in the head and limbs, and also lead to poisoning. The ten combinations ofGengxu (Gengxu), Xinyou (Xinyou), Wuwu (Wuwu), Jiwei (Jiwei), Bingwu (Bingwu), Dingwei (Dingwei), Jiachen (Jiachen), Yimao (Yimao), Renzi (Renzi), and Guichou (Guichou) are called 'linked sword (连珠刃)', all of which are ominous. Among these, Gengxu (Gengxu) and Xinyou (Xinyou) have immediate effects, while Jiachen (Jiachen) and Yimao (Yimao) have delayed effects. For women, committing the linked sword is destined to cause harm to the husband and children, loss of chastity, or death from self-inflicted injury. If it is also accompanied by 'suspended needle (悬针)', it can result in facial branding. This statement is from the "Broad Trust Collection (广信集)".

羊丸不可再犯死者，必帶疾，多主眼目相傷，若大運遇之，貴命當權，亦必有失。又如甲祿在寅，羊刃在卯，若命中犯兩甲，或三甲，即見卯為飛刃，尤凶。倒羊刃亦凶，如甲午人見丁未，亦多主有疾。（廣錄）

The Yangren should not be repeated, especially not falling into the death position, which will certainly bring illness, mostly affecting the eyes. If one's big destiny reaches Yangren, even a person of high status will certainly suffer some misfortune. For example, the stem Jia's禄 is in寅, and its Yangren is in卯. If the birth chart contains two or even three Jias, encountering卯 becomes Feiren, which is particularly dangerous. Reverse Yangren is also dangerous. For instance, someone born in the year Jiawu will suffer illness if they encounter Dingwei. This statement comes from the "Broad Record."

凡遇胎中羊刃，更帶刑害，主出不善，或父母惡死，及賊也，凡羊丸忌殺勝年，朝元者，如卯年日時，干有甲字也。凡日干就時上作刃，主痕疾，不然即於息帶也。如時干就日支作刃，主妻惡死，併性氣，不然是軍人，或帶痕疾也。年干臨時支作刃，多主父母惡死，或更帶天殺在上，五不失一，陰人年干就日支作刃，主夫性惡。

If the day stem is afflicted by Yangren and also accompanied by punishment and harm, it indicates that the person was born into an evil environment, or that their parents died violently. They may also become thieves. Yangren is most dangerous when it is overshadowed byInauspicious Sha (violent death) over the year stem. The term "chao yuan" refers to when the day column or hour column has the heavenly stem Jia, and the branch of the birth year is卯 (Mao), which is the Yangren of Jia. This is called chao yuan. If the day stem forms Yangren with the hour branch, it suggests that the person has scars or illness, or that their children will suffer. If the hour stem forms Yangren with the day branch, it indicates that the wife will die violently or that the couple's temperaments are incompatible, or that the person is a soldier or has scars. If the year stem forms Yangren with the hour branch, it often indicates that the parents will die violently. If there is also the presence of 天杀 (heavenly killing), then out of five cases, four or five will come true. For a woman's birth chart, if the year stem forms Yangren with the day branch, it suggests that her husband has a fierce and cruel nature.

不特羊刃，大凡一切殺，以年為父母，月為兄弟姐妹，日為妻妾，己身，及夫，時為子息，皆準此推之。或時藏刃人於胎，日刃或朝時上來，更若支干相駁克，妻身妊產定應災，婦人之命若如此，敢斷須憂生產死。（沉芝源髓）。

Not only Yangren, but all otherInauspicious Sha are determined by looking at the year pillar for parents, the month pillar for siblings, the day pillar for wife, concubine, self, and husband, and the hour pillar for children, following this method consistently. If the hour pillar contains a blade and the person is in the fetal stage, or if the blade in the day pillar is directed towards the hour pillar, and the heavenly stems and earthly branches are conflicting and mutually controlling, then disaster will surely occur during the wife's pregnancy and childbirth. If a woman's destiny is like this, it can be confidently concluded that she will suffer from complications during childbirth. This statement comes from the "Chen Zhi Yuan Mei."

刑有四種：一曰無禮刑，子刑卯，卯復刑子，蓋子為生陽晶，卯為日門，陽者，君也，夫也，勢不兩立，又子者，水也，卯者，木也，有子母之道，因兩陽之競不恤，所以相生處相刑害。故曰：無禮刑。生旺主人威肅，面無和顏，氣強性暴，太察不容。死絕則侮慢忽略，狹劣刻剝，大率主人敖慢，少孝悌，妨害親子，吳越六親，入貴格，則多掌兵權，不利近侍，位居不久。入賤格，則悖戾兇暴，多招刑禍，婦人得之，非有令德也。

The Three Punishments include four types. The first is called "No Ceremony Punishment": the child (Zi) punishes the rabbit (Mao), and the rabbit in turn punishes the child. Zi represents the beginning of yang energy, while Mao is the gateway where the sun rises and sets. Yang symbolizes the sovereign and husband, and two yangs meeting are incompatible. Moreover, Zi belongs to water and Mao to wood, which naturally have a mother-son relationship of mutual generation. However, due to the conflict between two yangs, they do not show care for each other. Thus, within the relationship of mutual generation, punishment and harm arise, hence the name "No Ceremony Punishment." If this occurs in a place of prosperity and strength, the person appears stern and serious, with a harsh expression, a strong temper, excessive discernment, and intolerance. If it occurs in a place of decline and destruction, the person becomes disrespectful and careless, narrow-minded, and harsh. In general, those with this punishment are arrogant, lack filial piety and brotherly love, harm their own children, and have conflicts with the Six Relations as if they were enemies from ancient rival states. Those with a noble destiny may hold military power, but they are not suitable for close service to a sovereign and their positions do not last long. Those with a humble destiny are rebellious and violent, often attracting punishments and misfortunes. Women with this punishment are considered to lack good virtue.

玉霄寶鑑云：卯為日門，子為陽之所生，日出於卯，子卯角立，無欽卑之道，故曰無禮刑。三命提要云：惟子卯位相生，比和亦災。

The Zuyao Baodian says: Mao is the gate where the Sun rises, and Zi is the place where yang energy is born. The Sun emerges from the Mao position, and Zi and Mao are directly opposing each other, neither willing to show respect or yield, hence it is called the crime of no courtesy. The Sanming Tiyao says: Only Zi and Mao are originally positions that are mutually generating, yet even with similar energies, they still cause disaster.

二曰：無恩刑，寅刑巳，巳刑申，申刑寅，是也。蓋寅中有甲木，刑巳中之戊土，戊土土聚，以癸水相合為妻，則癸水者，甲木之母也。戊土既為癸水之夫，乃甲之父也。彼父而我刑之，恩斯忘矣。故曰：無恩刑。巳中之丙，刑申中之庚，申中之庚，刑寅中之甲，準此同義。生旺主人持重少語，寡慾無情，多招失義忘恩之撓，死絕則面譽背毀，忘恩棄義。入貴格，則慘虐喜殺，好立功業，入賤格，則言行乘越，貪吝無厭。婦人得之，多產血損胎之災，一生不利骨肉，頗廉正也。

The second type is called "Wu En Xing" or "No Grace Punishment": Yin harms Si, Si harms Shen, and Shen harms Yin. Yin contains Jia wood, which harms the Wu earth in Si; Wu earth gathers energy and forms a marital bond with Gui water, and Gui water is the mother of Jia wood. Therefore, Wu earth, being the husband of Gui water, is also the father of Jia wood. When the father is harmed, the sense of gratitude is forgotten, hence the name "No Grace Punishment." The fire in Si harms the metal in Shen, and the metal in Shen harms the wood in Yin, following the same logic. When this occurs in a place of birth and prosperity, people tend to be cautious, speak little, have few desires, and be emotionally detached, yet often face betrayal and ingratitude from others. When it occurs in a place of death and decline, people may be flattering in front and slanderous behind, showing ingratitude and betrayal. Those with a noble destiny may be cruel and fond of killing, and eager to achieve great deeds; those with a humble destiny may behave improperly, be greedy and stingy, and never be satisfied. Women with this aspect often suffer from childbirth complications and fetal injuries, have a thin relationship with their family, but are generally honest and upright in their conduct.

玉霄寶鑑云：寅有生火，刑巳上生金，巳上有寄生之土，刑申之水，申中生水，刑寅中生火，不恤所生，遙相剋制，故曰無恩刑。

The Zuyao Baodian says another view: in the Yin branch there is initial fire, which controls the initial metal in the Si position; in the Si position there is寄托 soil, which controls the water in the Shen position; the water in the Shen position then controls the fire in the Yin position. They do not care for what they have generated, and instead control each other from a distance, so it is called no-benefit control.

三曰：恃勢刑，丑刑戌，戌刑未，未刑丑，蓋丑中有旺水，丑乃水中之土也，戌有墓火，丑恃旺水，刑戌中之墓火，戌為六甲之尊，未為六癸之卑，戌恃六甲之尊，而刑未，六癸之卑，未有旺土，復恃旺土之氣，刑丑中之水，各有所恃而相刑。故曰恃勢。生旺主人精神，意氣雄豪，眉粗面闊，以直攻人。死絕則眼露瘦小，精神乖角，是非賤侫，樂禍幸災。入貴格，則公清平正，人多畏懼。入賤格，則多犯刑責，闇昧之災。婦人得之，妨害孤獨。

The third type is called "恃势刑" (dominant force punishment):丑 (Chou) punishes戌 (Xu),戌 (Xu) punishes未 (Wei), and未 (Wei) punishes丑 (Chou). Within丑 (Chou) there is strong water, which is actually earth in water; thus,丑 (Chou) uses its strong water to punish the buried fire in戌 (Xu).戌 (Xu) holds the highest position among the six yin stems, while未 (Wei) holds the lowest position among the six jing stems. Therefore,戌 (Xu) uses its high status to punish the lowly未 (Wei); and未 (Wei), containing strong earth, uses its strong earth to punish the water in丑 (Chou). Each one relies on its own strength to mutually punish, hence it is called "恃势刑". When this is in a place of birth and prosperity, people are full of spirit and bold in their intentions, with thick eyebrows and broad faces, and they like to attack others directly. When it is in a place of death and decline, the eyes protrude, the body is thin and small, the mind is peculiar, and they enjoy spreading rumors, flattering others, and taking pleasure in others' misfortunes. If one's destiny enters a noble pattern, they are just and廉洁 (integrity), and everyone fears them. If it enters a lowly pattern, they often break laws and suffer hidden disasters. For women, this aspect harms relatives and leads to loneliness.

玉霄玉鑑云：未恃丁火之勢，以刑丑中之金，丑恃旺水之勢，以刑戌中之火，戌恃辛金之勢，以刑未中之木，故曰恃勢刑。

The "Yuzhao Yujian" says: "The [Earthly Branch] Chou is not supported by the strength of Ding fire to harm the metal in Chou; Chou relies on the strength of the flourishing water to harm the fire in Xu; Xu relies on the strength of Xin metal to harm the wood in Wei. All three are each relying on their own strength to cause mutual harm, so it is called 'shishi xing' (causing harm by relying on strength)."

四曰：自刑。自刑，辰、午、酉、亥，是也。辰者，水之墓也，滔則盈，午者，火之旺也，盛則滅。酉者，金之旺也，剛則【闕】。亥者，木之生也，旺則朽。各稟已太過之氣，而自致禍也。故曰自刑，生旺則沉靜內毒，形容劣弱。死絕則鴆毒輕忽，察見淵魚，多肢節足之災。入貴格，則機權大謀。入賤格，則多憂頑愚，不情自害，自刑帶諸凶殺，非令終人也。婦人主淫蕩，凶夭之災。

The fourth type is called "Self-Punishment," which refers to the branches Chen, Wu, You, and Hai, which harm themselves. Chen is the storage place for water; when water is excessive, it overflows. Wu is the flourishing place for fire; when fire is excessive, it self-destructs. You is the flourishing place for metal; when metal is overly strong, it becomes defective. Hai is the place where wood is born; when wood is strong, it decays. These branches each receive excessive energy, thus inviting misfortune, hence the term "Self-Punishment." If someone is born in a place of strength and vitality, they tend to be quiet and inwardly possess harmful thoughts, with a weak appearance. If they are born in a place of decline and extinction, they are light-hearted and malicious, with sharp perception even down to details like fish swimming in water, and often suffer from joint and foot ailments. Those with a noble destiny may be resourceful and cunning, capable of making great decisions. Those with a humble destiny, however, are often troubled, dull-witted, and unapproachable, even harming themselves. If "Self-Punishment" is combined with variousInauspicious Sha (malevolent influences), the person is unlikely to have a peaceful end. For women with "Self-Punishment," it indicates promiscuity and a risk of violent or early death.

凡人遇此四種之刑，常以相勝者，為凶。相生者為吉。相勝者如甲子刑辛卯，是也。又有刑不入者，是謂善御禍也。如甲寅水刑丁巳土是也。若人命得相生之刑，是五行激揚之氣，聰明脫俗，聲望榮立。若值相剋之刑，多狂橫刑責，官府之災。若值遇祿之刑，主特達，敢為人也。（並獨神經）

When a person encounters these four types of punishments, those that involve mutual control are usually considered凶 (unfavorable), while those that involve mutual generation are considered吉 (favorable). For example, mutual control occurs when the metal of Jiazi comes into conflict with the wood of Xinmao. Another type of punishment that does not penetrate, known as being good at resisting calamity, occurs when the water of Jiayin comes into conflict with the earth of Dingsi. If a person's destiny involves mutual generation, it signifies the vigorous energy of the Five Phases, indicating a person who is intelligent, refined, and has great reputation. If a person encounters mutual control, they are likely to be arrogant and reckless, facing legal troubles and official disasters. If a person encounters a punishment that meets their official position, they are likely to have an outstanding personality and be bold and decisive. The above is from the "Dun Jing Xing."

經云：金鋼火強，各歸其方，木落歸本，水流趨末，故巳酉丑金之位，其刑皆在西方，蓋巳刑申，酉自刑酉，丑刑戌，申酉戊皆西方之位，故也。寅午戌火之位，其刑皆在南方，蓋寅刑巳，午自刑午，戌刑未，巳午未皆南方之位，故也。亥卯未木之位，其刑皆在北方，言木落歸本者，歸根之位也。亥者木之根，故亥自刑亥，卯刑子，未刑丑，皆北方之位，故也。申子辰水之位，其刑皆在東方，言水流趨末者，必東流遊逝而不返，故申刑寅，子刑卯，辰自刑辰，皆東方之位，故也。（玉霄寶鑑）

The classics say: Metal is strong in nature, fire is strong in nature, each returning to its original direction; when leaves fall from trees, they must return to their roots, and flowing water always tends toward the end. Therefore, the刑 of the three metal trines (巳酉丑) all fall in the west—巳 is in conflict with申, 酉 conflicts with itself, and 丑 conflicts with戌, while申, 酉, and戌 are the three branches of the west. The刑 of the three fire trines (寅午戌) all fall in the south—寅 conflicts with巳, 午 conflicts with itself, and戌 conflicts with未, while巳, 午, and未 are the three branches of the south. The刑 of the three wood trines (亥卯未) all fall in the north; the saying "wood falls back to its root" means returning to its origin; 亥 is the root of wood, so亥 conflicts with itself, 卯 conflicts with子, and未 conflicts with丑, all of which belong to the north. The刑 of the three water trines (申子辰) all fall in the east; the saying "water flows toward the end" means that water flows eastward without turning back, so申 conflicts with寅, 子 conflicts with卯, and辰 conflicts with itself, all of which belong to the east. This statement is from the "Yuzhao Baodian."

三刑遇晝夜貴人，會德全者，謂之麒麟窟，主文章清貴。（鬼谷命格）

Three Punishments, if occurring together with both day Nobleman and night Nobleman, and also gathering the virtues of the Star of Virtue and Resolution and the Star of Virtue and Charity, are called 'Qilin Cave', indicating that the person will achieve fame through literature and attain noble status. This statement comes from the *Ghost Valley Destiny Pattern*.

三刑全之人，太歲受刑，而別刑卻來制刑太歲者，是也。理愚歌云：三刑相等同羊刃，封侯萬戶上將軍。假令癸巳人，得成戊寅月日，卻得庚申時之類為入格。蓋癸巳為戊寅所制，得庚申木，卻制之，本有刑而卻無刑，此類多掌兵刑之任。（玉霄寶鑑）

The "Using a Killer to Stop a Killer" pattern refers to a person whose three punishments are complete. The heavenly stem of the year is subject to punishment, but another punishment comes to counteract it. The "Liyu Ge" says: when the three punishments are equal, they are like the Yangren, and can lead to being granted a marquis title and holding the position of a general. For example, someone born in the year of Guisi, with the month and day of Wuyin, and the hour of Gengshen, would fit this pattern. Guisi is controlled by Wuyin, and Gengshen in turn controls Wuyin. Although there is punishment, it is as if there is none. Such a destiny often involves holding positions related to military power and legal affairs. This statement comes from the "Yuzhao Baodian."

乃五行四柱也。（鬼谷遺文云：九命是三元、四柱、祿馬）惡見三刑，蓋刑破終為不善，若只於月日時上帶刑，而太歲不干預者，不妨，干預者為不吉，故曰先論太歲。

Here the term "nine lives" refers to the Five Phases and the Four Pillars. The "Ghost Valley Legacy" states that the nine lives include the Three Yuan, the Four Pillars, and the禄 and 马. The nine lives most fear the Three Punishments, as punishments and destruction are never good. If only the month pillar, day pillar, and hour pillar involve punishments, but the year pillar is not involved, it is not a problem; however, if the year pillar is also involved, it becomes inauspicious. Therefore, it is said that one should first examine the year pillar.

凡三刑須分刑得入，刑不入，命中須分主客，以年為主，月日時為客，如主刑客，刑得入為貴，刑不入即賤，兼主有官災。若客來刑主，須是刑不入，方為貴格，刑得入者，賤命也。假令丑刑戌，須看是何丑，何戌，且以乙丑言之，刑庚戌是同類相刑，不好，刑丙戌壬戌則相生相刑，不以刑論，戊戌、甲戌是相剋相刑，戌戌刑得入，甲戌刑不入，更須看禍福所生之地如何，以戊戌為福聚之地，卻有乙丑來刑之，則大不好，若刑不入福聚之地，須作貴命看，餘準此。（並林開五命）

When discussing the Three Punishments, one must first determine whether the punishment is effective or not, and also distinguish between the main and the guest elements: the year pillar is the main, while the month, day, and hour pillars are the guests. If the main pillar punishes the guest, then if the punishment is effective, it indicates a noble destiny, but if not, it indicates a humble one, and it may also bring legal troubles. If the guest pillar punishes the main, then only when the punishment is not effective does it indicate a noble destiny, and if it is effective, it indicates a humble fate. For example, when the丑 pillar punishes the戌 pillar, one must determine which specific丑 and which specific戌 are involved. Take the case ofYichou: when it punishesGengxu, it is a case of similar elements punishing each other, which is not good; when it punishesBingxu orRenxu, it is considered a case of mutual generation, and should not be treated as punishment; when it punishesWuxu orJiaxu, it is a case of mutual control, among whichWuxu is effective punishment, whileJiaxu is not. Furthermore, one must also consider the nature of the place where fortune and misfortune gather:Wuxu is originally a place where fortune gathers, but ifYichou comes to punish it, it becomes very bad; if the punishment does not enter this place of fortune, it should still be considered a noble destiny. All other cases follow the same principle. The above is from "Lin Kai Wu Ming."

三刑之位帶三奇，天乙兼均在日時，刑若等分干遇德，官居極品定無虧。三刑須等即貴，若偏枯不等即凶敗。若有官，也見遷謫，須得相等，更帶三奇、貴人，天德，官極品矣。（金書命訣）隱迷賦云：三刑不足身立，大器難成。三刑殺者，若人遇之，身能制殺，當掌刑罰之任。殺若克身，多受戮辱，或非命而終。（三命鈐）

A rhyme says: If the position of the Three Punishments is accompanied by the Three Marvels, and the Tianyi Nobleman is evenly distributed between the day pillar and the hour pillar, with the punishments balanced and equal, and the heavenly stem also meets the Star of Virtue and Resolution, such a person will hold the highest official rank and will never suffer loss. The Three Punishments must be equal in weight to indicate prosperity; if they are uneven or imbalanced, it will lead to misfortune and failure. Even if one holds an official position, they are likely to be demoted. Only when the punishments are equal and accompanied by the Three Marvels, the Nobleman, and the Star of Virtue and Resolution can one reach the highest position in the court. This statement comes from the "Golden Book of Destiny." The "Hidden Mystery Treatise" says: The Three Punishments alone are insufficient for establishing oneself; great talent is difficult to cultivate. The "Three Destiny Keys" say: If a person encounters the Three Punishments, but can control them, they may hold the position of executing punishment; however, if the punishment turns to attack the person, they are likely to suffer violence and disgrace, or die an untimely death.

凡犯刑者，若原災福看在天輪是何宮分，各隨其位而定凶災，金則防刀兵之厄，內感心疾，逆毒焚如之禍，土水防登涉墜溺之險，與夫貪淫汙行，損敗元氣之咎。木則防強梁杖責之災，與筋骨手足折傷之疾，辰戌丑未則防勞瘵，脾氣凝積之疾，更以意類推廣之，如值下局，防刑憲流徙，險難惡死，值貴局則防內疾，不令終之禍，惟得貴人祿馬，或有沖破則減深災，然所得福壽，亦不全也。（五行要論）

Anyone who incurs punishment should investigate where the root of misfortune and fortune falls in the heavenly wheel of their birth chart, and determine the type of calamity according to the position. Those belonging to the metal element should beware of calamities involving weapons and military conflict, with internal manifestations as heart disease, and sudden disasters such as fire destruction. Those belonging to earth or water should beware of dangers such as falling from heights or drowning in water, as well as sins of excessive indulgence and moral corruption that deplete vital energy. Those belonging to wood should beware of disasters involving beatings by strong men and injuries to bones, joints, and limbs. Those with the branches of辰, 戌, 丑, or 未 should beware of tuberculosis and disorders of the spleen and stomach. Other cases can be extended in the same way. If the destiny is of a lower quality, one should beware of punishments, exile, and dangerous deaths. If the destiny is of a noble quality, one should beware of internal organ diseases and misfortunes leading to an untimely death. Only with the help of a nobleman or a禄马 (favorable official) to rescue, or with a conflict to break the situation, can the calamity be reduced. However, the fortune and longevity obtained in this way will never be complete. This statement is from the "Five Elements Essential Discourse."

凡命帶自刑，大忌時日與上下支干克戰，主為性陰毒少決，自強氣梗，未免帶疾，更才財死者，主無氣，如巳酉丑人，日時在午未申也，經曰：自刑財死，不盡天年。有人癸未年，辛酉月，己酉日，癸酉時，五十後枯右目喪子，此井邑吳二郎命。（廣信集）

If a person's destiny includes self-punishment, it is most dangerous if the day pillar and hour pillar, along with the upper and lower branches, mutually control and clash with each other. Such people tend to have a sinister and poisonous nature, lack decisiveness, be stubborn and impetuous, and are prone to illness. If the wealth star is also in a dead position, they will appear lifeless. For example, those born in the years of Si-You-Chou, if their day pillar or hour pillar falls on Wu, Wei, or Shen, this applies. The classic says: self-punishment combined with wealth in a dead position leads to a short life. Someone born in the year Guiwei, month Xinyou, day Jiyou, and hour Guiyou, lost vision in his right eye after fifty and also lost his son. This case is from the "Broad Trust Collection."

寸珠尺璧云：凡四柱帶自刑，多主闕唇，六指，眇目。自刑帶殺不為良，手足分支定見傷，若使陽申入陰殺，臨危不免惡聲揚。辰、午、酉、亥、各自刑，若年月日時見四字足者，主凶。如年月屬陽，日時屬陰，更帶羊刃，不論貴賤，須不善終。如丙午羊刃年，壬辰月，癸亥劫殺日，丙辰時，官居殿閣，四十三歲臨法而終。（金書命訣）

The book "寸珠尺璧" says: If a person's four pillars contain self-punishment, they are often prone to have a hare lip, six fingers, or one eye blind. The rhyme says: If self-punishment is combined with凶杀, it is not good, and the hands and feet will certainly be injured; if the yang position of Shen and the yin position of凶杀 meet, when facing danger, they will inevitably suffer a bad reputation. The self-punishment occurs in the combinations of Chen, Wu, You, and Hai. If the four pillars of year, month, day, and hour contain these four characters, it indicates misfortune. If the year pillar and month pillar are yang, and the day pillar and hour pillar are yin, and the person also has yangren, regardless of being high or low, they will not have a good end. For example, someone born in the year of Bingwu (丙午) with yangren, in the month of Renchen (壬辰), on the day of Guihai (癸亥) with劫杀, and at the hour of Bingchen (丙辰), will hold an official position up to the Hall, but will be executed by law at the age of forty-three. This example is from the "Gold Book of Destiny."