Water Star 154

水星者，北方之宿，水之精也。出於仲月，天下和平。若仲月不見，則災變生，大饑，陰陽錯亂，國家傾危，冬溫夏涼，害人傷物。主制五刑，偏將軍之象也。其精下為先農之神，以不效為凶。一名紐（一作丑）極。

The planet Water Star is the star mansion of the north and represents the essence of the Five Phases' water element. It appears during the middle months (second, fifth, eighth, and eleventh months), and at that time the world is peaceful and harmonious. If it is not visible during the middle months, calamities will arise: great famine, disorder between yin and yang, the state in peril, cold weather in winter and warm weather in summer, causing harm to people, livestock, and all things. In human affairs, it governs the five punishments and symbolizes a deputy general. When its vital energy descends to the human world, it becomes the god of the first plow, and if it does not appear on time, it is considered ominous. It is also known as 'Niu Ji' ('Niu' is sometimes written as 'Chou').

變色出己所見不常之處，其光青白輝輝然者，此帝王之為德及（一作正）也。如此星見，多夜雨晝晴者，臣下用陰謀其上也。至於偏裨地，皆放此。其星若不見四仲見於四孟之月者，其神明名勾星。光芒勃勃然如片雲，大如景星燦爛，九月所見，分野人多流亡，疊相嚙食，白衣聚會，兵起，吞並九州，十年大荒。其變如此，審詳候之。

The planet Water changes color and appears in a position where it should not normally be, with a bright, bluish-white light. This is a sign that the virtue of the sovereign extends throughout the realm. When this planet appears, if there are frequent rains at night and clear skies during the day, it indicates that ministers are secretly plotting against the sovereign. As for the effects on subordinate generals and deputy generals, they follow similar patterns. If this planet appears not during the four central months but during the four first months (January, April, July, October), its spirit is called the 'Hook Star'. Its light is intense, like a floating cloud, and its brilliance is great, like the Star of Auspiciousness. If it appears in September, it indicates a large number of people fleeing from that region, mutual killings among the people, gatherings of people wearing white mourning clothes, the outbreak of military conflicts, the annexation of the nine provinces, and a great famine lasting ten years. When such a celestial change occurs, it must be carefully observed and thoroughly examined.

其久而不沒，光聚兩角，變彗勃勃然者，象海鯨魚死，易王迎新之象。其神又名爨星，芒急輝輝然，其芒角五鋒狀如勵劍，形於萬物者也。早為月食，晚為彗星。一時不出，其時不和；四時不出，天下大饑。失其時而出（一作為），當寒反溫，當溫反寒。當出不出，是謂（一作以）擊，卒兵大起也。與他星遇而鬥，天下大亂。

The planet Water Star remains visible for a long time, its light gathering into two horns, appearing like a comet with a brilliant and spreading glow. This portends the death of a whale in the sea, symbolizing a change of ruler and the enthronement of a new sovereign. Its deity is also known as the "Cuan Star." Its horns are bright and swift, emitting five sharp blades, resembling a sharpened sword. It reveals corresponding forms on all things. If it appears too early, it foretells an eclipse of the moon; if it appears too late, it foretells a comet. If it does not appear in a season, that season will experience disharmony in climate; if it does not appear in all four seasons, the whole country will suffer from great famine. If it appears out of its proper season (the character "出" in some editions is "為"), it will result in warmth when it should be cold, and cold when it should be warm. If it should appear but does not, this is called "Ji," indicating a sudden large-scale military campaign. If it encounters other stars in conflict, it presages great chaos throughout the land.

凡水星入月，主敗兵。與金星合而出，破軍殺將，客勝。視旗所指，以命破軍。環金星，大戰，客勝。守房，胡敗。守婁，兵起。犯畢，夷傷主人，客勝。出昴北，胡主死。守畢、昴，邊兵起。守參、伐南，胡人入塞。入井，則兵進；出井，則兵退。犯鬼，兵起。入婁，兵起。守柳，牛馬貴。守張，兵起。入翼，兵大起。犯五車，兵起。留心，兵起四方。

When the Water Star enters the Moon, it indicates the defeat of the army. If it joins with the Metal Star and appears together, it signifies the defeat of the general and the victory of the guest army; one should look at the direction indicated by the flag star to determine which side's army will be defeated. If it circles around the Metal Star, there will be a great battle, and the guest army will win. If it stays in the Room Mansion, it indicates the defeat of the Hu people. If it stays in the Bond Mansion, it indicates the outbreak of war. If it invades the Net Mansion, it indicates harm to the main army by the barbarians, with the guest army winning. If it appears north of the Hairy Head Mansion, it indicates the death of the ruler of the Hu people. If it stays in the Net Mansion or the Hairy Head Mansion, it indicates war in the border regions. If it stays in the Three Stars Mansion or south of the伐星, it indicates the Hu people invading the border passes. If it enters the Well Mansion, it indicates the need to advance; if it leaves the Well Mansion, it indicates the need to retreat. If it invades the Ghost Mansion, it indicates the outbreak of war. If it enters the Bond Mansion, it indicates the outbreak of war. If it stays in the Willow Mansion, it indicates high prices for cattle and horses. If it stays in the Extended Net Mansion, it indicates the outbreak of war. If it enters the Wings Mansion, it indicates a large-scale military campaign. If it invades the Five Carriage Stars, it indicates the outbreak of war. If it stays in the Heart Mansion, it indicates war in all directions.

土星者，中央之宿，土之精也。若見於四季，表主之盛衰也。其神隱於大微，或下於人間，為妖異，為艷女起亂，亡破國家，為妖言惑亂人心；或為近臣，間鬥忠良。若其星光潤鮮明，見井、鬼之間，伏沒依常道，則正道不失；不依常道，則三綱錯亂。夫此星之色本黃而光明獨鋒在上，如火焚（一作炎）之狀，四面象光細而附上毳然，即土星之本體。

Saturn is the central mansion star, representing the essence of the Earth element in the Five Phases. When it appears in the months of the third, sixth, ninth, and twelfth months, it indicates the prosperity or decline of the sovereign's state. Its spirit is hidden within the Taimei Enclosure, but sometimes descends to earth to cause chaos: transforming into a beautiful woman to incite turmoil, leading to the downfall of the state; spreading false words to confuse and disturb the people's minds; or appearing as a close minister of the sovereign, creating discord and falsely accusing the loyal and virtuous. If this star has a warm and bright light, appearing between the Well Mansion and the Ghost Mansion, and its rising and setting are in accordance with the norm, then the righteous path will not be lost. However, if it deviates from the norm, the three fundamental relationships of ruler and subject, father and son, and husband and wife will become disordered. The natural color of this star is yellow, and its light shines alone with a sharp upward point, resembling a flame burning. The light around it is subtle and rises upward, soft like fine hair. This is the true form of Saturn.

土星所居國，吉。未當居而居之，若已去而復還，居之國得土地。當居不居，既已居之又東西去之，國失土。居其宿久則福（一作禍）厚，居其宿易則福薄。當居不居為失鎮，其下國可伐，得者不可伐。其盈為王不寧，縮有軍不復。一曰：既已居之，又東西去之，其國凶，兵將亂，不可舉事用兵。失次二舍、三舍，有王命不成，不然將有大水。

When Saturn stays in a region, it is auspicious. If it should not stay but does, or if it has already left and returns, the country where it stays will gain territory. If it should stay but does not, or if it has stayed and then moves east or west, the country will lose territory. The longer Saturn stays in a star, the deeper the blessing; the shorter the stay and the faster the movement, the shallower the blessing. If it should stay but does not, it is called 'losing the station,' and the country corresponding to that station may be attacked. Conversely, the country that gains the station should not be attacked. If Saturn moves ahead, it is called 'excess,' indicating the king will not be at peace. If it lags behind, it is called 'deficiency,' meaning the army on campaign will not return. Another view says: if Saturn has stayed and then moves east or west, the country will face danger, the army will rebel, and military action should not be taken. If Saturn is out of order by two or three stars, the imperial decree will not succeed, otherwise there will be a great flood.

凡犯左角，大將戰死。守右角，兵起。守糠，兵大起。入天廟，兵大起。守虛，有客兵至，不過五日自去。守奎，入奎，有邊兵起。入婁亦如之。入胃，客兵敗，主兵不用。入昴，胡主死。入畢，臣下為亂。入觜，兵起逆行。守參，胡兵起。守井，越兵起。

If the Earth Star invades the left star of the Horn Mansion, it indicates the death of a general. If it stays at the right star of the Horn Mansion, it signifies the mobilization of troops. If it stays at the Kefeng Star, it indicates a large-scale military campaign. If it enters the Heaven Temple Star, it also indicates a large-scale military campaign. If it stays at the Emptiness Mansion, it suggests an invading army from the enemy, but it will retreat on its own within five days. If it stays at the Legs Mansion or enters the Legs Mansion, it indicates military action on the border; entering the Bond Mansion is the same. If it enters the Stomach Mansion, it indicates the defeat of the enemy army, and the main army does not need to take action. If it enters the Hairy Head Mansion, it indicates the death of the ruler of the Hu people. If it enters the Net Mansion, it indicates rebellion among the ministers. If it enters the Turtle Beak Mansion, it indicates military action with the army retreating. If it stays at the Three Stars Mansion, it indicates the rise of Hu troops. If it stays at the Well Mansion, it indicates military action in the region of Yue.

入胃，舍七星，兵起，負海大饑。守張，多盜賊，興土工，兵起。入軫，兵發事自敗。入天庫，兵起。守河南界，蠻夷兵起。出東掖門，為將軍寶事。出西掖門，為將軍受事，西出受刑。

Entering the Stomach mansion and residing in the Seven Stars mansion, it indicates the mobilization of troops and a great famine along the coastal areas. Staying in the Extended Net mansion indicates many bandits, large-scale construction projects, and military campaigns. Entering the Chariot mansion indicates the dispatch of troops leading to self-destruction. Entering the Heavenly Storehouse star indicates the mobilization of troops. Staying at the boundary south of the Yellow River indicates military actions by the barbarians. Leaving from the eastern gate of the Taiwei Enclosure indicates that the general will receive rewards; leaving from the western gate indicates that the general will receive an appointment, and leaving from the west indicates that the general will suffer punishment.

《易》曰：天垂象，聖人則之。又曰：仰以觀乎天文，俯以察乎地理。此皆前聖人洞吉凶興亡之道，然而天文、地理、兵象之要略，得不審而用之哉？行師之際，五星伏沒、遲順兩曜、盈虧薄食、飛流示變、孛彗為妖，既知之矣，必審必詳所居躔度焉。

The Great Treatise of the Zhou Changes says: "Heaven sends down celestial phenomena, and the sage takes them as a model." It also says: "Look up to observe the heavenly phenomena, and look down to examine the earthly features." These are the ways of the sages of old to discern auspiciousness and misfortune, rise and fall. If this is so, how could the principles of astronomy, geography, and the star charts used by military strategists not be carefully examined and then applied? When engaging in military campaigns, knowing the concealment or disappearance of the five planets, the slow or regular movement of the sun and moon, the waxing and waning of the moon, the eclipses of the sun and moon, the falling of meteors indicating change, and the appearance of comets and孛stars indicating ominous signs, once these are known, one must carefully examine the "chuan du" or the degrees through which the stars move in the sky.

其躔度既詳之矣，必審所管分野焉。茍如是，方可以精別災異，順其舉動而已矣。今臣輒上據天文，下推地理，以別十二分野。外以觀星辰之變，內以備山川之用，天地之間，燦然在目。其圖其狀，以示於來者焉。

The celestial positions have already been carefully examined, and it is now necessary to clarify the "fields" they govern. These fields refer to the divisions corresponding between the heavenly star mansions and the earthly states and regions. Only after this is understood can disasters and anomalies be accurately identified, and actions can be taken in accordance with celestial phenomena. Now, Minister Xu Dong has based his work on astronomical observations and geographical analysis to divide the twelve fields. Externally, these fields are used to observe changes in the stars, while internally they are used to plan the utilization of mountains and rivers. Thus, the situation between heaven and earth becomes clear at a glance. The relevant diagrams and forms have been recorded and will be left for future generations to refer to.

臣聞百人已上，勝敗之氣必具焉。是以順之者昌，逆之者亡。天地無言，吉凶以象占；雲氣有異，必契災變。占氣之時，觀氣之初出如甑上雲勃鬱上騰，氣積而為霧氣，陰氣結為虹霓、暈珥之屬；不積不結，散漫一方，不能為災。必須知雜殺氣森森然疾起者，乃可占。常以平明、下晡、日出沒時候之。其內有風雨為解者，不成災也。

I have heard that whenever there are more than a hundred people, the atmosphere of victory or defeat is certainly present. Therefore, those who follow it will flourish, while those who defy it will perish. Heaven and Earth do not speak, but good or bad fortune is foretold by celestial phenomena. When strange clouds appear, they must correspond to some calamity. When observing clouds, one should look at their initial appearance: like steam rising from a steaming pot, the vapor gathers to form mist, and dark clouds condense into halos, rainbows, or sun dogs. If the clouds neither gather nor condense, but merely spread out in one area, they will not cause disaster. One must identify those clouds that carry a killing aura, rising swiftly and solemnly, before making a judgment. Usually, observations are made at dawn, in the late afternoon, and at sunrise or sunset. If rain or wind disperses the clouds, there will be no disaster.

若出軍之日，天氣漠漠，雲彩陰沉而寒者，必戰之象也。若晴陽蕩和，風雨不動者，不戰也。如或有青氣見君王相上者，大勝。青屈旋留註者，下流血。大霧五十日不散者，其境當有兵馬。霧色蒼黃者，亦有災變也。白雲如匹練經丑未者，兵之象也。或雲如人行，排列如陣，或壬子日四面無雲，獨見出雲如旌旗，皆兵象也。

If the sky is dark and gloomy with heavy clouds and a cold wind, it is a sign that battle is imminent. If the weather is clear and warm with no rain or wind, there will be no battle. If there is a green cloud appearing over the positions corresponding to the king and his ministers, it indicates a great victory. If the green cloud twists and coils and settles down, it signifies bloodshed in the lower regions. If a thick fog lasts for fifty days without dispersing, there will be military movements in that area. If the fog is a pale yellow, there will be calamities. If white clouds stretch across the positions of Chou and Wei like a white silk cloth, it is a sign of military affairs. If clouds appear as people walking in formation, or if on the Renzi day there is no cloud in all directions but a single cloud rises like a banner, these are all signs of war.

或雲三道，如霧非霧，如塵非塵者，敵人發軍之徵，隨其起處防之。或白雲如匹布起於東方者，大兵起也，色赤者尤甚，青者大喪，黑者亦如之也。或黑雲三道，首尾銳而中裂者，其下將有大戰。或雲氣赤而其緣黃者，大臣專權之兆也，不早除之，將有大變。於軍上往來，則往者敗，來者勝。

Some clouds are divided into three parts; they are not like fog, nor like dust. This is a sign that enemies are about to mobilize troops, and one should be on guard in the direction from which they rise. Some white clouds appear like a piece of cloth rising from the east, indicating a large-scale military campaign. If the color is red, the situation is particularly serious. If the color is blue, it signifies a great mourning. If the color is black, it is also a sign of great mourning. Some black clouds are divided into three parts, with sharp ends and a split in the middle, indicating a major battle will occur beneath them. Some cloud formations have a red color with yellow edges, which is a sign that ministers will seize power. If this is not dealt with promptly, there will be a major upheaval. If such a formation moves around a military camp, the side from which it departs will suffer defeat, and the side from which it comes will prevail.

或雲氣散如錦文者，當有赦書行天下。天下若無慶賀事，必見流血。或雲氣如虎頭者，暴亂之象也（象一作眾）。或雲氣如弩弓之狀者，天子之氣。或雲氣長數十百丈者，猛將之氣也。或雲氣無故如虎行雲中者，當暴兵至也。或雲如人字在空者，所發之處（一作地）必有人來告急，一人則氣一條。雲如方一紅者，暴兵至也。

Some clouds disperse like the patterns of brocade, indicating that an imperial decree of pardon will be issued throughout the land; if there is nothing to celebrate in the world, bloodshed is certain. Some clouds take the shape of a tiger's head, indicating signs of chaos. Some clouds resemble a crossbow, indicating the aura of the Son of Heaven. Some clouds stretch for dozens or even hundreds of feet, indicating the aura of a powerful general. Some clouds appear without cause as if a tiger were walking among them, indicating that troops of disorder will arrive. Clouds shaped like the character '人' hanging in the sky indicate that a place will surely receive urgent reports, with each cloud corresponding to one person. Clouds that are red in color indicate the arrival of troops of disorder.

或望無雲，獨見赤氣如旦暮之霞，或見黑雲極天，或白雲如仙人衣，十萬聯結，部隊相逐，罷而復起，或白雲廣大七丈，東西極天，如此者皆起兵之象。或有黑雲如人持刀盾者，暴兵之氣也。如見之國，當嚴號令，肅士伍以備之。

Sometimes there may be no clouds, but only a red glow resembling the morning or evening haze; or black clouds filling the sky; or white clouds resembling the robes of immortals, woven together in ten thousand pieces, moving in groups, dispersing and reassembling; or white clouds spanning seven zhang in width, stretching east to west across the sky: such phenomena are omens of military action. If black clouds appear like people holding swords and shields, this is the aura of chaos and disorder. Where such clouds appear, that country should enforce strict orders and discipline its troops to guard against it.

凡占氣三四百里，平目望在桑榆上千餘里，登高望之下屬地者居三二千里。雲氣有如獸踞上者，戰。自華而南，氣下黑上赤；嵩高三河之郊，氣正赤；常山已北，氣下黑上青；渤碣海岱之間，氣皆黑；江淮之間，氣皆白。徒氣白，土功氣黃，車氣乍高乍下、往往而聚，騎氣卓而（卓一作卑）布，卒氣搏。

When observing cloud formations for divination, from flat ground one can see clouds up to three or four hundred miles away; when looking horizontally and seeing the clouds at the level of the tops of mulberry trees, they can be seen up to over a thousand miles away; when ascending to a high place and looking down to see the clouds hanging low and touching the ground, the distance can be two or three thousand miles. Clouds that resemble wild animals crouching on top of them indicate warfare. To the south of Mount Hua, the clouds appear dark at the bottom and red at the top; in the high areas of Mount Song and the regions around the Yellow River's eastern and western banks and the middle reaches of the Yellow River, the clouds are purely red; to the north of Mount Changshan, the clouds appear dark at the bottom and blue at the top; in the areas between the Bohai Sea, Jieshi, the East Sea, and Mount Tai, the clouds are all black; in the region between the Yangtze and Huai rivers, the clouds are all white. The clouds of soldiers in service are white; the clouds of earth and wood construction workers are yellow; the clouds of military vehicles fluctuate high and low, often gathering into a mass; the clouds of cavalry are high and spread out (in some editions, 'low' is written instead of 'high'); the clouds of infantry are gathered in solid masses.

前卑而後高疾，前方而後高者銳，後銳而卑者卻。其氣平者徐行，前高後卑者不至而反。氣相遇者，卑勝高，銳勝方。來卑而修速者，不過三四日去之五六里見。氣來高七八尺者，不過五、六日十餘里、二十里見。來高又餘二十丈者，不過三十日去之五、六十里見。

When the aura is low at first and then high, it indicates a rapid military advance; when the front is square and the back is high, it indicates a sharp and decisive attack; when the back is sharp and low, it indicates retreat. If the aura is flat, it indicates a slow military movement; if the front is high and the back is low, it indicates that the army will return before arriving. When two auras meet, the lower one defeats the higher one, and the sharp one defeats the square one. If the aura comes low and long, it will appear within three or four days, and enemies can be seen from five or six miles away. If the aura rises seven or eight feet, it will appear within five or six days, and enemies can be seen from ten to twenty miles away. If the aura rises twenty zhang, it will appear within thirty days, and enemies can be seen from fifty to sixty miles away.

和雲精白者，其將悍，其士怯。其大根而前絕遠者，當戰。精白而前低者，戰勝。其前末兩昴者，戰不勝。陣雲如立垣，杼雲如杼，軸雲搏而端銳，鉤雲如城者亙天其半，雲霓者類闕。

Clouds that are soft and pure white indicate that the opposing general is strong but his soldiers are timid. If the cloud's base is thick and its end stretches very far, there will be battle. If the cloud is pure white and its end hangs low, the battle will be won. If the cloud's end splits into two branches that are high and raised, the battle will not be won. A formation cloud shaped like a standing wall, a shuttle-shaped cloud, a cluster of clouds with pointed ends, or a hook-shaped cloud spanning half the sky all indicate battle. Clouds resembling the double gates before a palace also indicate battle.

其故劍雲鉤曲者，此云見，以五色占而澤搏密，其見動人，乃有占，兵必起，必戰鬥。其旦五朔所候，次於日旁雲氣。人主人象皆如其形，故北狄之氣如群畜穹廬，南夷之氣類舟航幡旆（一作旗）。若冬至之後夜明者，陽氣之動也，不足占。

That kind of cloud, which resembles an old sword and is curved, should be interpreted according to the five colors; only when the color is moist and the cloud is dense and compact, and appears so vivid as to move the heart, can it be used for divination, indicating that war is certainly going to break out and battle is certainly going to occur. On the morning of the first day of each month, the clouds observed should follow the clouds adjacent to the Sun. The images of the sovereign and human affairs appear as they are in reality, so the clouds representing the northern Di people resemble herds of animals and yurts, while those representing the southern Yi people resemble ships and banners. However, the brightening of the night sky after the winter solstice indicates the beginning of the movement of yang energy, which is insufficient for divination.

處營臨陣之時，紫氣出於軍上者，大慶之兆也，即日有喜。或軍上雲氣如覆堤前赤後白者，勝氣，利進兵攻擊，在敵則勝。或軍上氣凝成雲，中天而住（一作往）堅固不變者，名曰剛氣，在敵則勿攻之。或軍上雲氣作盤踞之狀者，此之謂天威也，宜用精兵固以漸進戰。

When setting up camp or facing the enemy in battle, if purple qi rises from above our army, it is a great auspicious omen, and there will be good news that day. If the cloud qi over a military camp resembles a dam covering it, red in front and white in back, this is the qi of victory, favorable for advancing and attacking; if it appears over the enemy's camp, it signifies the enemy's victory. If the cloud qi over a military camp condenses into clouds and remains suspended in the air, firm and unchanging, it is called 'rigid qi'; if it appears over the enemy's camp, one should not attack. If the cloud qi over a military camp forms a coiled and crouching shape, this is called 'heavenly authority'; one should deploy elite troops, maintain a steady formation, and advance gradually in battle.

或軍上雲氣如華蓋先動者，或雲氣上赤下黑臨軍者，此弱彼強，然終破強，小能擊大，大戰大勝，小戰小勝。或雲氣如黑人在赤雲中，謂之捷（一作梅）氣。或雲氣如十十五五童子，氣中赤氣在前者，強兵之氣也。

Some military camps have clouds resembling Huagai moving ahead first; others have red clouds above and black clouds below pressing down upon the camp. This indicates that our forces are weak while the enemy is strong, yet ultimately we will overcome the strong enemy, achieving great victories in great battles and small victories in small battles. Some clouds appear like black figures standing among red clouds, known as 'Jie Qi' ('Jie' is sometimes written as 'Mei'). Other clouds resemble groups of five or ten children, with red clouds preceding them, indicating the presence of a strong military force.

或雲氣如山堤林木；或白氣粉（一作分）澤如樓，繞以赤氣；或雲氣爛如火光或湧如火煙；或雲氣如山蓋分為（一作高）兩穗蓬蓬然，又類草煙之狀，此得天勢也；或雲氣凝日而成五色；或雲氣十十五五如赤鳥蹲黑氣中；或氣如黑煙；或雲氣如馬頭高尾低；或雲氣如人持斧向敵；或雲氣如二匹練：此十者，勁兵之氣也，在敵則宜避之，在我則所向皆克矣。

Some clouds resemble mountain embankments and forests; some white vapor is moist and appears like buildings, surrounded by red vapor; some clouds shine brightly like firelight, or surge like fire smoke; some clouds look like mountain caps split into two tufts, fluffy and loose, or like smoke from burning wild grass. This indicates favorable heavenly and earthly conditions; some clouds gather around the sun and display five colors; some clouds appear in groups of ten or five, like red birds crouching within black vapor; some vapor resembles black smoke; some clouds look like a horse's head high and a horse's tail low; some clouds resemble a person holding an axe facing enemies; some clouds look like two white silk pieces. These ten types are all signs of strong military forces. If they appear in the enemy's territory, one should avoid them; if they appear in one's own territory, all directions will lead to victory.

黃雲氣黃白厚潤而重者；或雲氣動，廣如三匹皂帛，前大後狹，軍行其中，有雲如鬥雞，赤白相隨在氣中；或陣上有五色氣連天；或雲氣連天如烏衣人在赤雲中；或黃氣亙天：此五者，應天之兵也，擊之大凶。

Clouds of yellow color with white intermingled, thick, moist, and heavy; some clouds drift about, wide as three black silk cloths, broad in front and narrow at the back, with armies advancing through them, and some clouds resemble fighting roosters, with red and white colors accompanying the vapor; some armies have five-colored clouds connecting to the sky above; some clouds reach up to the sky, resembling a person in black clothing standing amidst red clouds; some yellow vapor spans across the sky: these five kinds are all armies in accordance with heavenly will, attacking them brings great misfortune.

或軍上氣如蛇舉頭向敵；或赤黃氣干天；或雲氣如日月而赤氣繞之；或雲氣如日暈有光著（一作者）；或氣凝聚而不散；或赤雲如龍，彩色鬱鬱沖天；或雲相繞又如鳳凰之狀；或雲氣光潤如城門隱隱在白雲中；或氣內赤外黃：此九者，強兵之勝氣，一曰王者之氣也。雲氣如是者，在我軍上則出擊敵，若在敵上則慎勿妄動。又若在我軍上，及敵人軍氣如常者，亦勝兆也。

Some military camps have a sky full of air resembling a snake raising its head towards the enemy; some have a red and yellow aura rising straight to the sky; some have clouds resembling the sun and moon with red air surrounding them; some have clouds resembling a solar halo with light accompanying them; some have air gathering without dispersing; some have red clouds like dragons, rich in color and rising straight to the sky; some have clouds intertwining in the shape of a phoenix; some have clouds shining brightly like a city gate faintly appearing among white clouds; some have air that is red inside and yellow outside: these nine types are the auspicious signs of a strong army's victory, and some say they are the aura of a sovereign. When such clouds appear above our army, we should attack the enemy; if they appear above the enemy's camp, we must never act rashly. Additionally, if such an aura appears above our army while the enemy's aura remains normal, it is also a sign of victory.

進兵攻城，及敵來圍我，亦審雲氣之吉凶。或城上或營上有氣如人十十五五，皆叉手低頭者，軍人願降也（此章一緣勝敗之氣雜論之，又多言城中之事，故別立此章。若於營塞及陣上吉凶亦同）。或雲氣上黃下白，名曰善氣，所臨之軍欲相和解。或城中氣如白旗者，不可拔。或黃雲臨城者，城中有大喜慶。

When advancing troops to attack a city or when the enemy comes to surround our forces, we should also examine the auspiciousness or inauspiciousness of the cloud formations. Sometimes, clouds appear above the city or camp, resembling groups of people, five or ten, bowing their heads and clasping their hands, indicating that the defending troops are willing to surrender. (This section was originally mixed with the discussion on the auspiciousness and inauspiciousness of victory and defeat, and it also discussed more about the city itself, so it is separated into a separate chapter. If applied to the auspiciousness or inauspiciousness of camps, fortresses, and positions, the method of judgment is the same.) Some cloud formations have yellow on top and white below, known as 'good clouds,' indicating that the two armies under them wish to make peace. Some cloud formations resemble white banners within the city, indicating that the city cannot be captured. Some yellow clouds cover the city, indicating great joy and celebration within the city.

或青色氣如牛頭觸人者，城中不可屠（一作圖）。或城中氣出東方色黃者，此天鉞，不可伐，伐者大禍。或城上氣如火煙分湧者，主人慾出戰也。其氣無極，不可擊。諸色但出而無極者，不可屠。或赤色或黑氣如杵形從城內向外者，內兵突出，主人大勝。或城上雲氣分為兩穗火之狀者，不可攻。或蒙氣繞城而不入者，外兵不得入。

Some blue clouds resemble a bull's head colliding with people, indicating that this city should not be attacked. Some clouds within a city appear in the east and are yellow, called "Yin Benefactor," and should not be attacked; the attacking side will suffer great calamity. Some clouds above the city resemble fire smoke branching out, indicating that the defending side will soon fight; if these clouds are boundless, then attack should be avoided; any clouds of various colors that surge out without end should not lead to the destruction of the city. Some red or black clouds resemble a pestle shape extending from within the city to outside, indicating that the army inside the city will break through and the defenders will achieve a great victory. Some clouds above the city split into two tufts like flames, indicating that attack should be avoided. Some obscure clouds circle around the city without entering, indicating that the army outside the city cannot penetrate.

凡攻城塞有諸氣從城中出入吾軍者，勝氣也，謹備之。或攻城赤氣在城上，黃氣在四面繞之者，城中大將死，城降。或城上赤氣如飛鳥者，急攻之，立可破矣。或氣出入於城中者，城中居（一作軍）民欲逃散，無鬥志，急攻之。或氣如死灰而覆其城寨者，吏士（一作使）病，城可屠。或城全無雲氣者，士卒心散。

When attacking a city, if various kinds of qi emerge from the city and enter our army, this is the winning qi of the enemy, and we should be cautious and prepared. If during the attack there is red qi on the city walls and yellow qi surrounding the four directions, this indicates the death of the city's general and the city's surrender. If red qi appears on the city walls like flying birds, we should attack quickly and can break through immediately. If qi moves in and out within the city, this indicates the city's inhabitants wish to scatter and lack fighting spirit, so we should attack urgently. If a greyish haze covers the city, this indicates the officials and soldiers are ill, and the city can be captured and destroyed. If there is no cloud qi at all on the city walls, this indicates the defending soldiers are disheartened and lack unity.

或城上赤氣如眾人頭向下者，其下多死喪血流。或白氣繞城而入者，急攻之，可拔。或白氣光如劍形，長百餘丈，自敵上起而橫城上者，攻之者受禍，城不可屠，八十一日內應。或黑雲高起，以黃為緣，長凝於陣前，橫列如跪，其狀如手相牽，三三五五低頭拱手營陣之上者，人必降。

Some instances show red clouds rising above the city like many heads pointing downward, indicating many deaths and bloodshed below the city. Some show white clouds circling around the city and entering it, suggesting a need to attack quickly, as the city can be captured. Some show white clouds glowing like swords, over a hundred feet long, rising from above the enemy and stretching across the city, indicating that the attacking force will suffer misfortune; this city should not be destroyed, and the prophecy will come true within eighty-one days. Some show black clouds rising high with a yellow edge, gathering for a long time in front of the formation, arranged horizontally like kneeling figures, forming groups of three or five, bowing and clasping hands, hanging over the camp formation, indicating that the enemy will surely surrender.

或雲氣如雞雉及走兔者，賊當來攻城，急備之。或雲氣三條五條橫列成陣，文如虎斑者，所臨之軍必拔城殺將，見之急攻之。或雲如龍行於城上者，必有大水。凡城上勝敗之氣如是者，勝在敵，不可攻之；敗在敵，可攻之。勝在我，則利出兵進擊；敗在我，則堅壁清野，嚴以守之。雲氣所見，天地心也，可不慎哉！

Some clouds resemble chickens and pheasants or running rabbits, indicating that enemy troops are about to attack the city; one should be prepared. Some clouds appear in rows of three or five, forming arrays with patterns like tiger skin, indicating that the army under which these clouds appear will certainly capture the city and kill the enemy commander; when seen, they should attack immediately. Some clouds look like dragons moving over the city, indicating a certain large flood. In general, the signs of victory or defeat on the city as described above: if the victorious energy is on the enemy side, one should not attack; if the defeated energy is on the enemy side, one may attack; if the victorious energy is on our side, it is favorable to send out troops for attack; if the defeated energy is on our side, one should fortify the city, clear the fields, and strengthen defenses. The clouds display exactly the will of heaven and earth; how can one not be cautious?

欲知敵將之賢愚，亦以雲氣占之。夫軍上青雲帶赤中黃白，自旦日至夜不散者，其主弱臣強，大將軍驕恣，法令顛倒，可急攻之。或軍上雲氣昏昏暗濁者，主將不明，賢良不附也。或軍上雲氣如蛟龍者，主將軍神魂散亂，可擊之。或出自白日沒之後，有青氣西亙天者，經十日不雨，大將當失位，強在三年之內也。已而變赤者，大敗之兆也。

To determine whether the enemy general is wise or foolish, one can also use cloud formations for divination. If the enemy's army is covered by dark clouds with a red tinge, with yellow and white colors mixed in the middle, and these clouds do not dissipate from morning until night, it indicates that the enemy's ruler is weak while his ministers are strong, the supreme general is arrogant and unrestrained, and the laws are reversed and chaotic. In such a case, one can attack quickly. If the clouds above a military camp are dark and turbid, it suggests that the general is not wise, and virtuous men are unwilling to submit. If the clouds above a military camp resemble a dragon, it indicates that the general's mind is scattered, and an attack is feasible. If after sunset on a certain day, a blue cloud appears spreading from the west across the sky and does not rain for ten days, it foretells that the general will lose his position, at the latest within three years. If afterwards the blue cloud turns red, it is a sign of great defeat.

或軍上青氣漸黑者，大將軍死。或雲氣黃白而潤澤者，將有威德也。或軍上氣漸漸如雲變作山形者，將有深識也。或雲外黑而中赤向前者，或兩軍相當雲氣如倉者，或赤氣如山者，此三者將悍精驍勇也。或雲上與天連者，將有智也。

Some military camps have a greenish mist that gradually turns black, indicating the death of the supreme general. Some clouds appear yellowish-white and moist, indicating the commander has prestige and virtue. Some mist above a military camp gradually transforms into the shape of a mountain, indicating the commander has deep insight. Some clouds have dark exteriors and red interiors, advancing forward; some clouds during a confrontation between two armies resemble granaries; some red mist resembles a mountain: these three situations indicate the enemy commander is strong, capable, and brave. Some clouds connect upward to the sky, indicating the commander is intelligent and strategic.

或雲氣如龍虎在煞氣中，或如火煙奮奮，或如火光變變，或如林木あだ者，或如塵埃頭大而卑者，或色紫黑狀如門上樓者，或如紫粉（一作粉素）霏拂者，或如龍游黑霧中者，或如日月有赤氣起繞者，或狀如門上黑下赤者，或如皂旗者，或如弓形，或蜿蜒如蛟蛇者，此十三者猛將之氣也。

Some clouds resemble dragons and tigers amidst a fierce atmosphere; some appear as rising flames; some look like flickering flames changing shape; some resemble dense forests; some look like dust with a thick head and low position; some are dark purple in color, shaped like the watchtowers on city gates; some appear as purple powder drifting about; some resemble dragons moving through dark mist; some look like the sun and moon with red vapor rising around them; some take the shape of a gate, black on top and red below; some resemble black banners; some look like bows; some wind like dragons and snakes: these thirteen forms are all the signs of fierce generals.

或雲氣青而疏散者，將怯弱也。或前大後小者，將不明也。或內黑緣以白氣者，將懦而無謀也。如此者，可以詐動，可以事惑，可以威，可以強逼決勝矣。

Some clouds are dark blue and sparse, indicating the enemy commander is timid and weak. Some clouds are large in front but small at the back, indicating the enemy commander lacks understanding. Some clouds have a black center and a white edge, indicating the enemy commander is timid and lacks strategy. When encountering such an enemy commander, one can use deception to provoke him, create disturbances to confuse him, use prestige to intimidate him, and force battle to determine victory or defeat.

進兵之時，先於山川四面望其雲氣。渾渾圓長，赤氣在其中者，或如赤杵在黑雲中者，其下有伏兵。或氣青黑色掩北斗者，敵將設伏兵以待我也。或兩軍相當，赤氣在陣前後者，亦有伏兵隨氣所在之方。或雲絞絞綿綿者，此以車騎為伏也。或雲氣聳然類山丘形者，此皆精猛之伏兵也。或雲氣成布席狀者，此以步卒為伏也，所見之地急防之。

When advancing with troops, one should first look around the mountains and rivers to observe the clouds. If the clouds are thick and round with a red color inside, or appear like a red wooden mallet standing in black clouds, there are hidden troops below. If the clouds are dark and black, covering the Big Dipper, this indicates that the enemy general has set up hidden troops waiting for our army. When two armies face each other, if red clouds appear in front or behind the formations, there are hidden troops, and the direction of the hidden troops corresponds to where the red clouds are. If the clouds are twisted and connected together, this indicates that chariots and cavalry are used for ambushes. If the clouds rise high and form the shape of hills, this indicates that the hidden troops are elite and fierce. If the clouds form a spread-out mat shape, this indicates that infantry are used for ambushes; wherever this is seen, one should quickly set up defenses there.

白氣群行，徘徊結陣往來者，他國人來欲圖亂我，不可應之。視其所往，隨而擊之，可得也。或有黑氣臨我軍上，如車輪行，敵人深入，謀襲營柵。或有黑氣遊行，中含五色，臨我軍上，必謀合諸侯而伐我，諸侯必謀反敵軍，敵軍當自敗。或有黑氣如幢節之狀出於營中，上黑下黃，敵人來求戰，無誠實言信相，及九日內必覺，備之吉。凡雲氣如是者，敵之密謀也。

White clouds move in groups, wander back and forth, and form formations, indicating that people from another country are coming to plot disturbances against us; we must not rashly engage in battle. We should observe where they are heading and follow them to attack, thus capturing them. Some black clouds press over our army, rolling like a chariot wheel, indicating that the enemy has already advanced deep into our territory, planning to attack our camps. Some black clouds move about, containing five colors, pressing over our army, indicating that the enemy certainly seeks to unite with the feudal lords to attack us; and the feudal lords will certainly retaliate against the enemy, causing the enemy to perish on their own. Some black clouds appear in the shape of flags, banners, and symbols rising from the camp, with black on top and yellow below, indicating that the enemy is coming to fight, but their words are not trustworthy. They will certainly be uncovered within nine days, and if we guard against them, it will be auspicious. All such cloud formations indicate the secret plots of the enemy.

軍上氣如死灰，或如馬肝，或如偃蓋，或如群羊，或如驚鹿，或如臥人無手，皆敗征也。或黑如壞山（壞一作敗），隨軍，軍敗將死；隨我，亦（一作移）當避之。或雲氣白黃昏發連夜襲敵者，軍士散亂，擊之吉。或軍上氣卑而一絕一敗，在東發白氣者，災深。或雲氣五色而東西南北不定者，軍欲敗。或赤氣炎隆於天者，大將軍死而眾軍潰亂。

The air above the military camp resembles dead ashes, or the liver of a horse, or the overturned hood of a carriage, or a flock of sheep, or a startled deer, or a person lying down without arms; these are all omens of defeat. Some clouds appear black like a collapsed mountain (the character 壞 is sometimes read as 壞), following a particular army, which will surely suffer defeat and the general will die; if they follow our army, we should avoid them (the character 亦 is sometimes read as 移). Some clouds appear white, rising at dusk and attacking the enemy all night, indicating disorder among the soldiers, which is favorable for attack. Some air above the camp is low and intermittent, breaking up in segments and dispersing, with white clouds rising in the east, indicating great calamity. Some clouds display five colors and drift unpredictably in all directions, indicating the army will surely suffer defeat. Some red clouds rise like a raging fire, indicating the death of the supreme general and chaos throughout the entire army.

或黑氣如牛馬從霧中漸漸入軍者，名曰天狗下食血，必營於遠處避之。或雲氣蓋道蒙蔽而晝冥者，立敗之征也，爨不暇熟，急避之。若雲氣或青或碎如瓦礫，所臨之軍即敗也。若雲氣或赤或白，如人無頭，如人臥匐地低頭，所臨之軍敗也，當流血百餘里。在吾而欲禳之者，大將移營他處即吉也，士卒令其歡心上騰，可以解福。

Some black clouds resemble cattle and horses emerging gradually from the mist into the camp, known as "Heavenly Dog Feeding on Blood." In such a case, the camp must be moved to a distant location to avoid danger. If clouds block the roads, obscure the sky, and darken the day, this is a sign of immediate defeat, and there will be no time to cook food; one must hurry to take shelter. If the clouds appear green or fragmented like broken tiles, the army under their influence will immediately suffer defeat. If the clouds are red or white, resembling a headless person or someone lying on the ground with their head low, the army under their influence will suffer defeat, with blood flowing for over a hundred li. If such an omen appears on our side and we wish to avert it, the general should move the camp to another location, which will be auspicious. At the same time, the soldiers should be cheerful and their morale should be high, thus dispelling the disaster and bringing about good fortune.

或雲氣如水破堤，士伍潰之兆也，敵將潛兵襲我之後。或夜雲氣長如引索垂下，所臨之軍敗也。或夜半雲氣濃黑者，多陰謀。色青白及蒼黑者，皆反戾之兆也。或黑雲如車輪轉而入軍者，小人謀逆，急察備之。或雲氣狀如犬者，其下多流血。或雲氣黑色而黃色在上者，士卒怯懦，內亦有反亂之計也。

Some clouds appear like great water breaking through a dike, indicating the disintegration of the ranks and a sign that the enemy general is secretly sending troops to attack our rear. Some night clouds are long and thin, like hanging ropes, and the army under their influence will suffer defeat. Some clouds in the middle of the night are dark and thick, indicating many plots and conspiracies. Clouds of a blue-white or dark grey color are all omens of rebellion and disorder. Some black clouds appear as if a chariot wheel is spinning into the camp, indicating that petty people are plotting rebellion and should be carefully investigated and guarded against. Some clouds resemble dogs, indicating much bloodshed below them. Some clouds are black with a yellowish tinge on top, indicating that soldiers are timid and there are hidden plots of rebellion within.

或黑雲如幡幢在氣中者，或赤氣如血，飛鳥在黑氣中者，皆敗兆也。或黑雜碎如群豕，或如群牛馬，或如群驚鳥者，皆敗兆也。或雲氣如浮塵散漫者，士卒謀反逆。或赤如火之猛焰燭天而起者，大敗流血。或赤雲如人三三兩兩或行或坐者，暴兵將至也。或雲氣如焚生草煙，所臨之軍大敗也。或雲氣如焚生草煙，所臨之軍雖前勇，後當自退。能以歲月候而擊，可勝。

Some black clouds appear like banners and canopies standing in the air; some red clouds resemble blood, with flying birds within the black clouds: these are all omens of defeat. Some black clouds are chaotic and fragmented, resembling a group of pigs, or a group of horses and cattle, or a group of startled birds: these are also omens of defeat. Some clouds appear like floating dust, dispersing widely, indicating that soldiers may plot rebellion. Some red clouds resemble fierce flames lighting up the sky and rising up, indicating a great defeat with bloodshed. Some clouds resemble people appearing in threes and twos, some walking, some sitting, indicating that disorderly troops are about to arrive. Some clouds resemble the smoke from burning green grass; the army under such clouds will suffer a great defeat. Some clouds resemble the smoke from burning green grass; the army under such clouds, although initially brave, will certainly retreat later; if one can calculate the timing according to the year and month and launch an attack, victory can be achieved.

或赤雲氣而漫漫如垂蓋者，軍當自亂。或赤雲兩向狀如八字，各有首尾，銳而復大者，大戰血流，先動者敗。言先動而敗者，謂有兩軍交刃之時之兆也。或雲氣如懸衣，敗兆也。雲氣如轉蓬者，敗兆也。或兩相當，敵上全無雲氣者，擊之可破也。或兩軍相當，敵上雲氣極天如陣者，此之謂橫海氣，力攻之可破也。或兩軍相當，望彼軍上有火照人者，此失將士之心，攻之可敗也。

Some red clouds spread widely like a low-hanging canopy, indicating that the army will disintegrate on its own. Some red clouds spread apart on both sides, forming the shape of the character 「八」, each with a head and tail, starting sharp and then becoming larger, indicating a great battle with heavy bloodshed, and the side that attacks first will suffer defeat. The saying that those who move first will be defeated refers to the omen when the armies are about to engage in close combat. Some clouds resemble hanging clothes, which is a sign of defeat. Clouds resembling floating hemp grass blown by the wind are also a sign of defeat. In some cases, when two armies face each other, if the enemy's sky has no clouds at all, attacking it will result in victory. In other cases, when two armies face each other, if the enemy's sky has high clouds reaching the sky, arranged like a military formation, this is called 「horizontal sea clouds」, and attacking with full strength can lead to victory. In some cases, when two armies face each other, if firelight is seen shining from the enemy's camp, this indicates that the enemy general has lost the hearts of his soldiers, and attacking it will result in victory.

或雲氣如群鳥亂飛者，敗兆也。或雲氣毿毿如虎尾垂於軍上者，軍欲降。不然，將有奸人為敵應。或兩軍相當，去十里內望見彼軍上氣白又高，後有青雲者，立敗之兆也，宜速鼓行而擊。或雲氣蒼黑者，敗兆也。或雲氣如行牛，或如鼓車，或如群蛇亂走，或黑雲如人牽牛，皆敗兆也。或雲如壞屋之狀，兵亂將死。或淡黑雲中有深黑雲，黯黯而如星者，謂之敗軍之氣，兵大災。

Some clouds appear like a flock of birds flying wildly, indicating a bad omen. Some clouds look fluffy, like a tiger's tail hanging over the enemy's camp, suggesting that this army will surrender; otherwise, there will be spies acting as internal agents for the enemy. When two armies face each other, if within ten li they see the enemy's camp with white and towering clouds, followed by dark clouds, this is a sign of immediate defeat, and they should beat the drums and advance quickly to attack. Some clouds appear dark and gloomy, indicating a bad omen. Some clouds look like walking cattle, or like war chariots, or like a group of snakes moving around, or like black clouds being pulled by a person leading a cow; all these are signs of defeat. Some clouds resemble collapsed houses, indicating rebellion and the death of generals. Some pale black clouds contain deep black clouds that look dim and like scattered stars, known as the "clouds of defeated armies," indicating great military disaster.

夫興師動眾，天以勝敗之氣告人者有以也。當勝氣者不可恃之，當修軍政、精智慮、嚴號令、正賞罰，此可以答天地之貺也。茍或恃勝氣而軍政不修，荒怠敗度，此可以反勝為敗也。遇敗氣者詎能必敗也？當以嚴教令、謹智慮，責躬罪己、恭答天譴，此可變敗為勝也。大將得不以勝敗之象，立修德之方乎！

Whenever armies are mobilized, the heavens use the qi of victory and defeat to inform people, and there is a reason for this. Those who divinate victory should not rely on it; instead, they should regulate military affairs, plan carefully, issue clear commands, and enforce fair rewards and punishments. Only then can they be worthy of the gifts from heaven and earth. If they rely on the qi of victory but neglect military discipline, become lazy and corrupt the laws, this is enough to turn a winning situation into a losing one. If one encounters the qi of defeat, does that necessarily mean failure? They should clarify orders, think carefully, take responsibility for their faults, and respond respectfully to the heavens' warnings. In this way, they can turn defeat into victory. How could a great general not use the heavenly signs of victory and defeat to establish a path for cultivating virtue!