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Metaphysics & Philosophy
Tieban Shenshu: Judgments and Complete Text
Tieban Shenshu: Judgments and Complete Text
Tieban Shenshu, also called Tieban Shenshu, Tieban fortune-telling, Tieban divine calculation, or Taiji numerology, and commonly known as the iron abacus, is a form of Chinese divination arts. It matches the heavenly stems and earthly branches of the year, month, day, and hour of birth with the trigrams, checks the zodiac signs of one's parents, siblings, spouse, and children, uses an abacus to calculate the numbers, and seeks the sequence of Tieban numbers, from which the corresponding prophetic verse is obtained. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, a series of works on Chinese divination arts appeared. They drew on some mathematical principles from The Book of the Supreme Mystery of the World, then altered and extrapolated them, falsely attributing their transmission to Shao Yong.
Judgments and complete text
Tieban Shenshu, also written Tieban Shenshu. It is a type of Chinese divination art that flourished during the Qing dynasty.Tieban Shenshu was invented by Shao Yong (Shao Kangjie) during the Song dynasty. Over the years, because there have been many stories of Tieban Shenshu producing astonishingly accurate results, some practitioners in the field—including researchers of divination arts and even Tieban Shenshu practitioners with only a superficial understanding—have continually claimed that Tieban Shenshu is actually a false divination art. They say it mainly relies on other divination arts, such as Eight Characters destiny analysis and Zi Wei Dou Shu, supplemented by techniques of indirect probing, to produce astonishingly effective deductions.
I. Tieban Shenshu divination method:
1. List the Four Pillars, and assign each pillar’s heavenly-stem-and-earthly-branch number. The numbers of the stems and branches use the Taixuan numbers: Jia and Ji, Zi and Wu 9; Yi and Geng, Chou and Wei 8; Bing and Xin, Yin and Shen 7; Ding and Ren, Mao and You 6; Wu and Gui, Chen and Xu 5; Hai and Ji 4; the stem is the hundreds digit, the branch is the tens digit, and the ones digit is always 0. For example: Jia-Yin: Jia 9, Yin 8, giving 980; Yi-Wei: Yi 8, Wei 8, giving 880.
2. Add the numbers for each of the four pillars: the result is a four-digit number; discard the tens digit and do not use it. Example: Four pillars: Wuyin, Xinyou, Dingmao, Jiachen. Wuyin 570 + Xinyou 760 + Dingmao 660 + Jiachen 950 = 2940. Take only 2900; consult 2900 to learn whether it is auspicious or inauspicious.
two. Tieban Shenshu verdicts:
The number two thousand one hundred:
The number two thousand one hundred with a remainder signifies the image of seeing gold across a river and the pattern of jade hidden in cold stone. It is like receiving a hundred coins each day, a life of rest and repose, wavering and unsettled, with a romantic disposition. Throughout life, one is upright, outspoken, kind-hearted, and not secretive; forgiving, yet unable to rely on close kin. Clever and intelligent, one dislikes malicious people, attracts good friends and assistance, gains the support of benefactors, has little to fear from petty people, and associates with many gentlemen. Middle age is stable. At forty-nine, a new member joins the household, the family changes residence, and its reputation rises greatly; wealth, honor, and success flourish. At sixty-seven there are dangers and calamities. At seventy-six, the sun sets over the western hills.You will have three or four children who return to the mountain and see you off.
The poem says: Close kin are distant, and the wife is not fated to unite with you; there is both firmness and gentleness, and a generous capacity.
Success comes early, prosperity in middle age; the later years are glorious, with lasting blessed splendor.
The number two thousand two hundred:
The number two thousand one hundred with a remainder signifies the image of mastery of both civil and military learning and the pattern of bamboo leaves casting flower shadows. Daily income is two dou. Whatever you do, you achieve fame; fine clothing adds luster. Throughout life you are leisurely, quick-tempered, unsettled in body and mind, ambitious but anxious. This is a destiny suited to finding security in public service and changing households. Men have rank and emolument; women have ample clothing and food. Eminent people respect you, and petty people do not dislike you. You cannot rely on close kin, nor depend on brothers. The wife palace indicates a spouse a few years younger. You are fated to have children and not be alone. Those with this number suffer many calamities in childhood, with frightening events at home. At forty-six there is a disaster involving pus and blood; at nineteen, a minor calamity; at twenty, the Luohou star illuminates the life limit,bringing connected disputes and verbal conflicts. At twenty-three, wealth and joy increase. In the months of Chen and Si, children are indicated. At twenty-eight, a major event; at thirty-three, benefactors assist and happy events arrive. At forty-two, wealth comes in and misfortune turns into good fortune; with benefactors above, you may act as you wish. At fifty and sixty-one, great honor comes all along the way. Tender willow branches are green, and peach blossoms in the sky are red. At sixty-eight or sixty-nine, the minor limit is insufficient; performing blessings can resolve it. At seventy-seven, the two limits are like a lone boat tossed by waves; beware the cold. Joy is halved, and misfortune turns to good fortune. At eighty-one, one pillow and a dream of millet; sons and daughters weep with broken hearts. Three sons and one daughter see you through to the end.The number ten thousand two with a remainder: among civil and military pursuits, skill and technique are refined; close kin and flesh-and-blood relatives are truly difficult to rely on; brothers are inferior to friends.
The early poem says: Flowers and bamboo throughout the garden reflect the sunlight; willows spread their green and shade the doorway lintel.
With a good body, you pass through life peacefully; only the spring breeze of your later years is extraordinary.
The number two thousand three hundred:
The number two thousand three hundred with a remainder signifies flowers and trees meeting spring and fish and dragons gaining water. You are quick-minded and skillful, harmonious and compliant inside and out. Early years are laborious; later years prosper and establish the household. You succeed independently, cannot rely on close kin, and brothers have little strength to help. The wife is seen again, and children mean you are not alone. Gentlemen see your beauty; petty people cannot succeed. You have more successes than failures. Those with this number are fretful at ages one, two, and three, but a joyful star is within, so it is not greatly inauspicious. At eight or nine, benefactors support you; at fifteen, things are ordinary; at seventeen or eighteen, there is unexpected joy. The red curve of heavenly emolument is like flowers in bloom, and rain like the moon high in the sky. At twenty-three, great good fortune,At twenty-nine, petty people bring disputes of speech, but benefactors assist and there is no danger. At thirty, illness and mourning clothes occur, but it is not a great calamity. At sixty-nine, the minor limit arrives without obstruction. At seventy, the moon sinks into the blue sea. Two sons and one daughter see you through to the end. The number three thousand three hundred with a remainder: you work diligently for others; throughout life, your livelihood must be earned by yourself; like a lone tree or solitary boat, success does not come quickly.
The poem says: Whatever is lost may still be regained; a lifetime has little luck and much ruggedness.
Seeing wealth and silk come of themselves is like dreaming; even when reaching great prosperity, one may still remain dazed and sunk in gloom.
The number two thousand four hundred:
The number two thousand four hundred with a remainder signifies seedlings growing and chrysanthemums welcoming autumn. You are slow in nature yet intelligent, harmonious inside and out. Childhood is laborious; external wealth provides assistance. You are poor first and rich later, leave your ancestral home to establish a household, and have little support from close kin. If you have no brothers, even if you do, there is no reliance. A younger wife is suitable; otherwise the marriage is repeated. Petty people favor you, and you encounter wealth and honor. Many people with this number, from age three to twenty, suffer disasters involving pus and blood, illness, and fretfulness. If the fate contains a resolving star, worries do not become danger; with benefactors’ support, there is no great harm. At twenty-one, undertakings succeed and three years proceed smoothly,At twenty-five, the Luohou star shines on the life; disputes of speech recur, and it is difficult to pass through this period. At forty, great auspicious prosperity, like a fish gaining water or a tree meeting spring; benefactors appear, joy and wealth increase, and ten years bring great happiness. At forty-five, in the second month of winter, beware of resentment and conflict among flesh and blood. At forty-six and forty-seven, the dragon enters the sea and the tiger runs into the deep mountains. At fifty-eight, there are verbal disputes, illness, and mourning clothes; wealth may offset losses, and damaged matters need not be feared. At seventy-two, you encounter wind like a boat, like a stone sinking into the sea. At eighty-four, the great limit arrives; three sons and two daughters see you through to the end. The number two thousand four hundred has a further remainder,Childhood is laborious, old age is peaceful and clear; fortune stands like a tiger’s head on an ox’s back, and again and again you meet esteemed benefactors.
The poem says: Chrysanthemums do not fear the assault of severe frost; after hardship ends, joyful energy arises.
If you encounter it in the year of Chou during your period of fortune, everything will proceed smoothly and all affairs will prosper.
The number two thousand five hundred:
The number two thousand five hundred with a remainder signifies grass and trees in bloom and the pattern of a tiger’s roar raising the wind. You are clever and quick-witted, rich in knowledge and refined in many skills, able to understand ritual and righteousness. You act fairly, do not disdain poverty or favor wealth, and do not seek fame or profit; naturally you become prominent, surpassing the ordinary. Early years are unfavorable, but later years are glorious. A broken mirror is reunited. Close kin are cold and distant; brothers offer little strength. You establish a household independently, with a son before a daughter. Childhood brings calamities. The Luohou star shines on the life but does not cause great harm. You leave your ancestral home to establish a household. At seventeen or eighteen, happy events are indicated, but beware falls and missteps; when wealth comes, beware its dissipation. Several years are ordinary. On the day-seat, at twenty, good fortune is added to good fortune,Joy gives birth to good fortune. At twenty-eight or twenty-nine, there is financial loss and verbal dispute; joy can offset it. At thirty-one or thirty-two, joy appears, pressure is relieved, and wealth enters; five years bring quick profit. At thirty-seven, verbal conflict requires patience and is not dangerous. Spring and summer are ordinary; autumn and winter are greatly auspicious. At forty-seven, fretfulness appears but joy can offset it. At fifty-five, ten years of great profit. At sixty-seven, calamity, disputes, and financial loss occur; the first limit offers no protection. At seventy-eight, gloom arises in the heart. At eighty-one, a dream enters the land of millet; one son and two daughters see you through to the end. The number two thousand five hundred with a remainder: gradually honor, prosperity, wealth, and abundance arise; intelligence and wisdom bring much ingenuity; the tiger’s roar and the dragon’s cry cause all things to be born.
The poem says: Flowers, trees, and lingzhi are naturally extraordinary; after hardship comes ease and prosperity.
From the Mid-Autumn day onward there are many auspicious celebrations; throughout life, you are a hero unlike others.
The number two thousand six hundred:
The number two thousand six hundred with a remainder signifies flowers meeting spring and green mountains and beautiful waters. You are intelligent by nature, with no wolf-like malice in your heart. Ancestral property is difficult to rely on; you establish a household independently. A strong-willed wife is auspicious. Children are destined for glory. Brothers offer little strength; you maintain the household yourself. At nine, there is an unexpected disaster; at sixteen, great smoothness; at eighteen, disadvantage; at twenty-one, verbal disputes and financial loss. External mourning may be halved by joy. At twenty-three, spring and summer pass ordinarily and the four seasons are stable. At twenty-eight, an ominous star shines; if no disaster appears, financial loss is certain. At thirty-three, blessings are moderate. At forty-five, a withered tree meets spring and flowers bloom,Withered seedlings gain rain and naturally flourish. Once moving forward, ten years bring true profit. A wealthy household has great auspiciousness and layer upon layer of joy. At fifty-one, there is calamity but no great harm, though disputes may still occur. At fifty-nine, verbal disputes and right and wrong. From sixty-three, the final limit brings eight years of quick profit. Later years are bright and splendid. At seventy-seven, flowers wither and the moon wanes; brightness dries up and disappears. A pair of children see you through to the end. The number two thousand six hundred with a remainder: wild flowers compete in beauty and shine brightly; dragon, phoenix, rat, and ox bring many auspicious celebrations; each fresh flower is new in layer upon layer.
The poem says: A withered tree meets spring and does not wither again; grass appears green from afar but vanishes when approached.
Thriving and competing in luxuriance, your household wealth is abundant, comparable to Tao Zhu.
The number two thousand seven hundred:
The number two thousand seven hundred with a remainder signifies wealth, honor, purity, and lofty character, and the pattern of green pines in a cold valley. Your heart is like a wolf’s malice, your nature fierce as fire, and your mouth like a steel sword. You are decisive and just, do not avoid suspicion, live by righteousness, and tread a thick mat half-worn. Close kin have no strength; with a wife you are not alone. Later years are rather good, the final years greatly prosperous, and the cycles of fortune shine. This number brings calamity at ages three, six, and nine; if the natal chart has auspicious stars helping, there is no danger. At eighteen, good fortune exists amid misfortune. At twenty-one, six years are stable. At twenty-seven or twenty-eight, spring and summer bring insufficient satisfaction. At thirty-two, wealth and joy flourish, auspicious matters come repeatedly, and all plans succeed,At forty-two, things are unfavorable and everything undertaken goes wrong. At forty-six, there is calamity, but benefactors also assist. At fifty-seven, ten years of great prosperity. At sixty-seven, when the first limit arrives, there is no protection. At eighty-nine, tears are shed westward as departure approaches. Two sons and three daughters see you through to the end.
The poem says: The number two thousand seven hundred with a remainder brings visible emolument and a name engraved throughout the world.
My wife’s family and mine are both wealthy and prominent; blessings, longevity, health, and peace endure to eighty, fragrant and honored.
Pines and cypresses remain evergreen at the mouth of the chaotic rocks; your name is fragrant and surpasses your peers.
Heaven bestows blessings and emolument everywhere; the later years surpass youth.
The number two thousand eight hundred:
The number two thousand eight hundred with a remainder signifies red tassels shining in the sun and the pattern of mandarin ducks playing in water. You are noble in character and conduct, substantial inside and out, impartial in disposition, upright and selfless, and act with grandeur. Your intentions are clever and subtle. Close kin are punished or hindered by fate; brothers offer little strength. A wife is seen again, which is auspicious. Mourning from outside also arrives. Like a mad bee brewing honey, you have ten years; like an extraordinary flower spreading fragrance, you have three springs. At sixty-nine, misfortune turns into good fortune. At seventy-one, water flows east to the sea and a dream enters Nanke. Three sons and one daughter see you through to the end.
The poem says: The number two thousand eight hundred with a remainder is the brightest pattern when it appears in the destiny.
When opportunity arises, your lineage receives Heaven-bestowed emolument; office rises upon office, and blessings grow longer.
When the destined connection arrives, everything comes naturally; while supporting the endangered and rescuing the fallen, you meet a noble benefactor.
Close kin are cold and distant, but the wife’s palace is superior; later years are ruggedly magnificent like a pine forest.
The number two thousand nine hundred:
The number two thousand nine hundred with a remainder signifies willow trees meeting spring at the tomb and the pattern of jade pendants tinkling. You are warm, kind, respectful, frugal, upright, fair, compassionate, and intelligent. The wise seek your counsel; gentlemen have lofty aspirations. Brothers offer little strength. You are solitary and plain in your way of life. Middle-age fortune and limits bring achievement; later years are as stable as flowers, greatly auspicious. At three, many calamities; at fourteen, repeated disadvantages, including bloodshed, sores, poison, and disaster. At twenty, joy comes to you. At twenty-three, disputes and verbal quarrels, calamity, and mourning clothes are in force. At twenty-five, minor disaster and financial loss; caution offers protection. At twenty-eight, six years of smoothness. At thirty-four,The course of fortune opens widely; eminent people assist. At thirty-seven, two years are unfavorable. At thirty-nine, clothing and emolument are abundant, and wealth flourishes like a ship under full sail; one rise brings ten truly splendid years.Later years surpass the new spring. At fifty, office and emolument increase, and glory, wealth, and honor illuminate the household. At fifty-four, one year of fine profit. At fifty-five, all affairs bring auspicious celebrations. At fifty-eight, the household population faces unexpected events not caused by birth; wealth and honor become increasingly apparent, and the household changes. At sixty-nine, calamity comes to the door; give thanks to the gods for protection. At seventy-one, the minor limit approaches. At eighty-six, the great limit ends and you return to the great dream; summoned in the underworld, you ascend the road to the nether realm. Two sons see you through to the end.
The poem says: In late spring, flowers and willows meet the right season; civil strength and military excellence carry fame far.
You may receive the vermilion-robed general’s nod; climb the first branch of the cinnabar laurel.
Wherever ingenuity is applied, a household livelihood is established; do not worry about the future—the time will come of itself, though late.
Clear as water and bright as a mirror, daring like the sun and moon, illuminating without partiality.
The number three thousand:
The number three thousand with a remainder signifies a chicken transforming into a vermilion phoenix and the pattern of bamboo sheltering a study window.A person is clear-featured, beautiful, handsome, and elegant; noble people see and cherish them. They are quick-tempered but not malicious, and are not guarded against anything because they do not speak of right and wrong. They cannot rely much on the ancestral estate; the six kinds of relatives offer little support, and siblings are distant. The spouse and children have a noble air. There are successes and failures in youth, but prosperity comes in the final period. According to this destiny, at ages three, five, and nine, and at age twelve, illness and calamity bring mixed good and bad fortune; age fourteen passes ordinarily, with no clear rise or fall; at age eighteen, joy gives birth to worry; at age twenty-three, repeated happy events come to fulfill the heart’s wishes; at age twenty-six, minor quarrels and disputes require patience and pose no danger; at ages twenty-eight and thirty, ‘the wind sends a lone boat away with the current, while the sun shines on lotus blossoms, making them distinctively red’; at age thirty-two, beauty, harmony, and fulfillment prevail.At thirty-seven, minor calamity offers no protection. At thirty-nine, wealth and honor arise naturally without seeking them; without hoping for fame, achievement comes naturally. Once you depart, ten years are like a star’s position; added wealth and joy fulfill your heart. At forty-two, verbal disputes and financial loss bring poor fortune. At forty-six, calamity and illness affect the body. At forty-seven, fortune arrives, bringing office and emolument; good fortune adds flowers to brocade again and again. When the time comes, ten years are greatly prosperous; take a large ship across the water. At fifty-two, minor calamity offers no protection. At sixty-two, beware petty people; insufficiency arises, but in joyful years the household is safe. At seventy-nine and eighty, there is a road to the Yellow Springs, with no form remaining in this world. Three sons and one daughter see you through to the end.
The poem says: The number three thousand with a further remainder brings surging emolument and blessings, displaying awesome fame.
You regularly ride in a lofty carriage with four horses; you will surely ascend to the Zi Palace and the court of nobles.
Once you rise straight to the blue clouds, the Kun transforms into a Peng and reaches the magpie bridge.
Your name is inscribed on the wild geese’s reply and becomes renowned throughout the world; the carp in the pond climbs the Dragon Gate.
The number three thousand one hundred:
Three thousand one hundred with remainder: this is the image of a bird transforming into a golden rooster, and the pattern of flowers reflected on green moss. You are kindhearted and free of malice; you begin and finish what you undertake. When entering official service, you uphold benevolence. You do good and refrain from evil, always cherishing the wish to aid the world and help others, with every cup expressing respect for the elderly and compassion for the poor. Advancing, your reputation becomes prominent; withdrawing, you find peace in the woods. Your early years are ordinary, with no extraordinary strength. At ages three, six, and nine, life proceeds smoothly; at eighteen, a calamity star shines upon you, but noble people offer assistance and turn misfortune into good fortune. At twenty-nine, disputes and gossip can be endured without harm. At thirty-eight, it is like a withered tree meeting spring, or a dried seedling receiving rain.The clouds clear and the sun appears; wealth arrives with great auspiciousness. At forty-nine, Heavenly Virtue and Six Harmonies shine upon you, bringing no harm. At fifty-six, things proceed smoothly. At sixty, official affairs and descendants are unfavorable, but there is no major harm. At sixty-seven, life is ordinary. At seventy-one, the soul rises and the po descends; you leave the realm of sunlight and return to the realm of yin. Two sons and one daughter see you through the end.
The verse says: Three thousand one hundred with remainder; your resounding reputation is destined to surpass the crowd.
Your family grows wealthy, its people live in peace, and your wife and children become honored; joy is added to joy as the household is transformed.
You repeatedly bow before the flower-lit candles and behold your later years; official rank and emoluments rise ever higher.
You have only brothers, but no one to rely on; standing tall on your own, you establish merit and achievement.
Three thousand two hundred:
Three thousand two hundred with remainder: this is the image of a snake transforming into a flood dragon, and the pattern of a crane following phoenixes. You are quick-tempered but not evil, kindhearted and without malice, gentle in speech, loyal and honest. You possess the aspirations of a gentleman and the character of a benevolent person. You cannot rely on your six kin; ancestral property is difficult to preserve, and brothers are of little help. You have successive marriages, and among your children a noble person emerges. At ages three and five, there are disasters involving bloodshed. At twelve and twenty-two, noble people guide you, and your prospects gradually brighten. At twenty-one, the sun rises in the east and clouds spread across the white frontier. At twenty-eight, disputes and gossip arise, and mourning from outside the family also arrives; a happy event may offset half of it. At thirteen, the boat follows the flowing water,the moon rises high. At thirty-six, a minor disaster causes no harm. At thirty-eight, lawsuits continue one after another, but noble people assist and turn misfortune into good fortune. At forty-one, spring mud gives birth to all grasses, and autumn winds that kill everything ultimately bring success; when you move, wind rises as a tiger runs, and when you roar, the valleys echo like a tiger’s cry. At forty-six, a minor disaster causes no harm. At forty-seven and forty-eight, one year departs in a torrent, followed by twelve years of entering a period when added family brings great joy and prosperity. At fifty, life is plain and uneventful. At fifty-two and fifty-three, loss of wealth is unfavorable. At fifty-six, the mist and clouds part and the red sun appears; the blue gown is removed and a new purple robe is donned. At seventy, the oil in the cup is exhausted and the lamp is about to go out.If hidden virtue is great, life may be extended; at eighty, the fate of death arrives. Three daughters and one son see you through the end.
The verse says: Three thousand two hundred with remainder; bold and broad-minded, your heart knows no fear.
When the Ox meets the Rat or Snake, honor and prominence abound; the crane follows phoenixes and spreads its fame.
The kun transforms into a peng and climbs the road to the clouds; the carp changes into a dragon and leaps through the Dragon Gate.
Reward follows virtue without fail; longevity is like the Southern Mountain, and fate is naturally fulfilled.
Three thousand three hundred:
Three thousand three hundred with remainder: this is the image of a dragon entering the blue sea, and the pattern of a stone cherishing another mountain. You are clever and quick-witted, eloquent, outstanding and exceptional, dedicated to saving the world and helping people. Your nature is like wind and fire: when pleased, your face is filled with spring breeze; when angry, a cold wind brushes your countenance. Fame and rank become prominent; with diligent effort, advancement is not difficult. Brothers and six kin lack affection; your wife brings conflict, while your children include noble people, outstanding among their peers, bringing fame and honor to the family. At ages three and five there are disasters, mostly causing unease. At ten, you pass through normally. At fifteen and seventeen, happy matters are easily accomplished, with abundant blessings and good fortune. At nineteen, rain suddenly clears. At twenty, all grasses sprout,noble people lend their strength, bringing added joy and wealth—great auspiciousness. At twenty-six and twenty-seven, good deeds go unrecognized, and sorrow is born again amid joy. At thirty, adversity departs and prosperity arrives. At thirty-six, what was originally beautiful turns bad; excessive joy gives birth to sorrow again. At thirty-eight, the moon reaches the center of heaven and shines upon all nations; flowers are added to brocade, and ten new years begin. At forty-three, a minor disaster appears, but a happy event can avert it. At forty-six, the Luohou star entangles you, causing loss of wealth and possessions and unrest from mourning garments. At forty-eight and forty-nine, there is peace and great auspiciousness, with unexpected wealth arriving. At fifty, the family prospers and wealth flourishes, with new members joining the household, bringing pure auspicious peace. At fifty-five, it is unfavorable but not harmful.At fifty-eight and fifty-nine, the years pass with much good fortune; your later years flourish, surpassing a new spring. Two sons and one daughter see you through the end.
The verse says: Three thousand three hundred, a complete and vigorous number; like a fish finding water and leaping through the deep abyss.
The family’s reputation rises greatly, and the children flourish; jewels are accumulated widely and the granary is filled with silver.
A flawless piece of jade is mixed among stones; if it meets an enlightened and worthy judge, it too can be distinguished.
When the dragon, tiger, wind, and clouds meet, you will surely display your statecraft amid thunder and rain.
Three thousand four hundred:
Three thousand four hundred with remainder: this is the image of a sail floating on the sea, and the pattern of spring grass receiving nourishment. You possess the aspirations of a gentleman and are a fine vessel like the ceremonial jade vessel.Your appearance and natural abilities are beautiful; your disposition supports others, and you are generally harmonious and cheerful. Your fortune is sometimes abundant and sometimes thin; wealth gathers quickly and disperses quickly. It is difficult to have support from your six kin. Without brothers, even relatives are hard to rely on. You give kindness but receive resentment in return. Establishing a household depends on you; you become prominent in public service, not through farming. The early years are unfavorable, but the final period is powerful. You have a heart that respects the elderly and pities the poor, making yours a destiny of both fortune and emolument. At ages three and twelve, things are unfavorable. At eighteen, blessings and joy increase, with both auspicious and inauspicious matters. At twenty, wealth and people arrive together in great abundance, and fortune and rank begin to flourish. At twenty-two, the Luohou star shines upon your fate, making undertakings unfavorable; because kindness brings much anger, guard against disasters in spring and summer, and expect daily disputes.Loss of wealth and harm to people can be avoided if a happy sign appears. At thirty-two, a noble person obtains what is needed for you, bringing added wealth and joy; thereafter, ten years are like flowers on brocade, with glory, riches, and honor all complete. At forty-one, even what is withered flourishes again. At fifty-five and sixty-three, great auspiciousness and success. At sixty-six, the King of Hell has determined death at the third watch—how could he keep a person until the fifth watch? In one dream the soul enters the darkness; three sons see you through the end, with tears streaming.
The verse says: Three thousand four hundred with remainder; the family’s resources are abundant, comparable to Tao Zhu.
In the years of the Snake and Rat, prosperity abounds, just like peach blossoms growing lush beneath the rain.
Lush grasses compete in flourishing, their colors green and tender; fine trees delight the eye, their growth dense and luxuriant.
When seedlings reach their flowering beauty, they become treasures; melons continue to grow abundantly, never withering.
Three thousand five hundred:
Three thousand five hundred with remainder: this is the image of the sun rising and the moon waxing, and the pattern of jade chimes and golden bells. Your aspirations are lofty, with both literary and martial talents; your spirit is clear and refreshed, and your schemes are broad. Gentlemen rejoice in you, while petty people resent you. Your wife is virtuous and your descendants honored. Youth is laborious, middle age plain, and old age powerful—an upper-grade destiny. The six kin offer little strength; brothers lack affection. You establish a household independently and stabilize your foundation alone. This number is ordinary at first; at eight and nine there are many disasters. At fourteen, fortune begins. At eighteen there is joy and wealth. At twenty, fortune is quite good and auspicious energy fills the household. At twenty-eight, the dragon returns to the sea,the moon shines at midheaven, and wealth prospers. At thirty-four, disputes, loss of wealth, and mourning from outside the family arise. At thirty-six, six years of great prosperity begin. At thirty-seven, spring and summer bring disasters, but a happy event may offset half of them. At forty-one, ten years pass swiftly and smoothly: sails rise over the sea and smoky willows conceal the gate. At fifty-one, life passes ordinarily. At fifty-two, the moon at mid-autumn is exceptionally bright; your son is honored and your wife glorious. At sixty-one, flowers are added to brocade, and joy appears amid sorrow. At seventy-one, the minor cycle causes no harm. At eighty, when the major limit arrives, each departs and flies on its own; the crane spreads its wings and returns west. Three sons and one daughter see you through the end.
The verse says: Three thousand five hundred with remainder; more stagnation in youth, greater ease in old age.
The sun departs and the moon arrives through enduring ages; the jade resonance and golden voice gather into great accomplishment.
At the Yu Gate, waves suddenly rise three levels; on level ground, a thunderclap startles all.
Not only will you spread your name and illuminate your ancestors; you will also enrich your descendants with the fragrance of learning.
Three thousand six hundred:
Three thousand six hundred with remainder: this is the image of having a way to generate wealth, and the pattern of flawless jade. Your aspirations are pure and lofty; you respect the elderly, pity the poor, care for orphans, and support widows. You always retain a heart that loves people, with no intention of deceiving them. You speak bluntly and think directly; your character is upright and conduct proper. Your wife is worthy and your children filial; your elder brother is patient and younger brother generous. Youth is ordinary, while the middle and final periods are better. This number has many disasters in youth; at eight and nine, life is ordinary; at eleven, it is beautiful; at eighteen and nineteen, things are unfavorable; at twenty, wealth and joy enter and whatever you undertake succeeds. At twenty-five, thunder startles a hundred miles and shines across the nine regions. At twenty-eight, guard against gossip and also fear loss of wealth; if the Straight Relief Star is well placed,and you also receive assistance from noble people, it will not be harmful. At thirty-five, wealth, honor, benefit, and success fill the household. At forty-two, guard against gossip, illness, and disaster. At forty-eight, official disputes and loss of wealth. At forty-nine, fortune is low. At fifty, misfortune. At sixty-eight, the minor cycle causes no harm. At eighty-two, the major limit brings clouds and rain. One son and one daughter see you through the end.
The verse says: Three thousand six hundred, greatly surpassing others; the crane follows phoenixes into the clear heavens.
Longevity is like the Southern Mountain, firm as layered stone; fortune is like the Eastern Sea, surging without end.
When the time comes, the wind carries you to the Pavilion of Prince Teng; when fortune arrives, you alone stand as the great sea turtle in the ocean.
The waters of Pan River give off fragrance, yet your aspiration is not fulfilled; in the Moon Palace, you pluck the cassia branch and gaze high toward heaven.
Three thousand seven hundred:
In the three thousand seven hundred with remainder, this is the image of the Dragon Horse bearing the diagram, and the pattern of the phoenix crying in the wilderness. You are handsome and elegant, intelligent and clever, humble and gentle in speech, clear-minded in aspiration, loyal and honest, passing the family tradition onward. Your wisdom surpasses others, and you excel in both virtue and ability. You can handle literature and martial affairs alike. Your wife is worthy and your children filial; your sons are honored and descendants prosperous, possessing the power to turn the cosmos and the heart to pacify the realm and stabilize the state. Youth is smooth, middle age beneficial and successful, old age prosperous. This number is bitter first and sweet later: youth is stumbling, undertakings are hard to complete, and plans do not go as wished. At eighteen, fortune is good for six years. At twenty-four and twenty-five, fame and rank are promising and emoluments rise high. At twenty-eight, a minor disaster;At thirty, great prosperity: clouds arise from the scriptures and wind rises from the tiger. Official disputes and gossip occur, but with a star of resolution there is no harm. At thirty-eight, spring mountains seem to smile and summer clouds form many extraordinary peaks. At forty-two, auspicious clouds gather and a hundred blessings arrive together. At fifty-two, all flowers smile upon meeting spring; the Five Blessings come from Heaven. The ten-year course is beautiful, and the moonlight shines over three generations. At sixty-two, the minor cycle is about to arrive. At seventy-two, the Rooster is like a dream and the Wood Horse carries the message; a pair of children ultimately sees you through.
The verse says: Three thousand seven hundred with remainder; the bird follows phoenixes and cries high in the wilderness.
If it does not fly, so be it; once it flies, it soars into the Milky Way. If it does not cry, so be it; once it cries, it astonishes people.
The granary is full and grain is stored; life is sufficient, people are safe, goods abundant, and all affairs prosper.
When fortune meets the Ox and Rat, fame and profit are achieved; a hundred blessings arrive together, and joy comes layer upon layer.
Three thousand eight hundred:
Three thousand eight hundred with remainder: this is the image of dragons flying and phoenixes dancing, and the pattern of fish leaping and hawks soaring. Your nature is like wind and fire, but you are not treacherous. You are intelligent, clever, upright, fair, capable in literature and martial affairs, versatile, and adept at everything. Your name is known throughout the four seas. A younger wife is suitable; this is a destiny that enjoys blessings. If your predecessors had virtue, you would survive nine deaths out of ten, though you would experience many frights. At ten, life is prosperous. At fifteen, you exchange flowers and graft branches; there is a solution and no harm. At nineteen, a minor disaster occurs, but an auspicious event can avert the gossip. At twenty-eight, a withered seedling receives rain and a dead tree meets spring; thereafter eight years bring an elevated reputation, a wealthy household, and half of all wealth. At forty-two,Gossip and financial loss; disasters in spring and summer. At forty-three, fortune turns beautiful. Prosper for ten years; accomplish things in the east and west. A red apricot branch extends over the wall. At sixty-nine, calamities come one after another, and nothing goes smoothly. At ninety, enjoy the blessings of the human world at just the right time; an imperial edict from Heaven arrives again. Two sons and one daughter see you through to the end.
The verse says: Three thousand eight hundred, a complete number; possessing both firmness and flexibility, longevity endures.
Glory in youth, prosperity in middle age; the winter scene is withered, but the spring scene is fresh.
Two sons see you through the end, with a daughter accompanying them; your wife is estranged and the six kin are cold.
In old age, you become even more vigorous like pine and cypress; even with white hair, you can retain a youthful face.
Three thousand nine hundred:
There are three thousand nine hundred and some in the count: the image of a crane dancing through the sky, the pattern of a swan playing in the sea. Exceptionally intelligent, outstanding in planning, distinguished through military authority, and renowned in literature. Having cultivated heavenly nobility, one may attain human nobility. You often possess the magnanimity of a great person and harbor no petty-minded thoughts. Wealth and honor cannot corrupt you; poverty and low status cannot make you waver; force and power cannot bend you. This is the destiny of a great man under Heaven. At thirty-seven, adversity is cause for concern. At thirty-eight, all flowers bloom fresh in every hue; amid myriad purples and reds, it is always spring. At forty, the scene of fortune lasts for ten years, and prosperity and blessings are boundless. For a great person, an advantageous omen appears: the flying dragon is now in Heaven.At fifty-four, the great end is present all day; if you do not listen, naturally there is nothing to be done. Endure a moment’s anger to avoid a hundred days of worry. At sixty-two, each year passes ordinarily, time flying like an arrow. At seventy-four, the days and months rush like a shuttle; suddenly you reach the western realm, peach blossoms and flowing water disappear into the distance, revealing another world unlike the human realm. Three sons and one daughter, wearing mourning hemp, escort the coffin to the mountain.
The verse says: Three thousand nine hundred, a complete number; whoever has this in life possesses blessings that continue without end.
Your aspirations are great, your words generous, your capacity great; your household is broad, your hands open, and your heart broad.
With firmness and constancy, all affairs are complete; through a hundred years of wind and clouds, you can rival Heaven.
Judgments and complete text
Tieban Shenshu, also written Tieban Shenshu. It is a type of Chinese divination art that flourished during the Qing dynasty.Tieban Shenshu was invented by Shao Yong (Shao Kangjie) during the Song dynasty. Over the years, because there have been many stories of Tieban Shenshu producing astonishingly accurate results, some practitioners in the field—including researchers of divination arts and even Tieban Shenshu practitioners with only a superficial understanding—have continually claimed that Tieban Shenshu is actually a false divination art. They say it mainly relies on other divination arts, such as Eight Characters destiny analysis and Zi Wei Dou Shu, supplemented by techniques of indirect probing, to produce astonishingly effective deductions.
I. Tieban Shenshu divination method:
1. List the Four Pillars, and assign each pillar’s heavenly-stem-and-earthly-branch number. The numbers of the stems and branches use the Taixuan numbers: Jia and Ji, Zi and Wu 9; Yi and Geng, Chou and Wei 8; Bing and Xin, Yin and Shen 7; Ding and Ren, Mao and You 6; Wu and Gui, Chen and Xu 5; Hai and Ji 4; the stem is the hundreds digit, the branch is the tens digit, and the ones digit is always 0. For example: Jia-Yin: Jia 9, Yin 8, giving 980; Yi-Wei: Yi 8, Wei 8, giving 880.
2. Add the numbers for each of the four pillars: the result is a four-digit number; discard the tens digit and do not use it. Example: Four pillars: Wuyin, Xinyou, Dingmao, Jiachen. Wuyin 570 + Xinyou 760 + Dingmao 660 + Jiachen 950 = 2940. Take only 2900; consult 2900 to learn whether it is auspicious or inauspicious.
two. Tieban Shenshu verdicts:
The number two thousand one hundred:
The number two thousand one hundred with a remainder signifies the image of seeing gold across a river and the pattern of jade hidden in cold stone. It is like receiving a hundred coins each day, a life of rest and repose, wavering and unsettled, with a romantic disposition. Throughout life, one is upright, outspoken, kind-hearted, and not secretive; forgiving, yet unable to rely on close kin. Clever and intelligent, one dislikes malicious people, attracts good friends and assistance, gains the support of benefactors, has little to fear from petty people, and associates with many gentlemen. Middle age is stable. At forty-nine, a new member joins the household, the family changes residence, and its reputation rises greatly; wealth, honor, and success flourish. At sixty-seven there are dangers and calamities. At seventy-six, the sun sets over the western hills.You will have three or four children who return to the mountain and see you off.
The poem says: Close kin are distant, and the wife is not fated to unite with you; there is both firmness and gentleness, and a generous capacity.
Success comes early, prosperity in middle age; the later years are glorious, with lasting blessed splendor.
The number two thousand two hundred:
The number two thousand one hundred with a remainder signifies the image of mastery of both civil and military learning and the pattern of bamboo leaves casting flower shadows. Daily income is two dou. Whatever you do, you achieve fame; fine clothing adds luster. Throughout life you are leisurely, quick-tempered, unsettled in body and mind, ambitious but anxious. This is a destiny suited to finding security in public service and changing households. Men have rank and emolument; women have ample clothing and food. Eminent people respect you, and petty people do not dislike you. You cannot rely on close kin, nor depend on brothers. The wife palace indicates a spouse a few years younger. You are fated to have children and not be alone. Those with this number suffer many calamities in childhood, with frightening events at home. At forty-six there is a disaster involving pus and blood; at nineteen, a minor calamity; at twenty, the Luohou star illuminates the life limit,bringing connected disputes and verbal conflicts. At twenty-three, wealth and joy increase. In the months of Chen and Si, children are indicated. At twenty-eight, a major event; at thirty-three, benefactors assist and happy events arrive. At forty-two, wealth comes in and misfortune turns into good fortune; with benefactors above, you may act as you wish. At fifty and sixty-one, great honor comes all along the way. Tender willow branches are green, and peach blossoms in the sky are red. At sixty-eight or sixty-nine, the minor limit is insufficient; performing blessings can resolve it. At seventy-seven, the two limits are like a lone boat tossed by waves; beware the cold. Joy is halved, and misfortune turns to good fortune. At eighty-one, one pillow and a dream of millet; sons and daughters weep with broken hearts. Three sons and one daughter see you through to the end.The number ten thousand two with a remainder: among civil and military pursuits, skill and technique are refined; close kin and flesh-and-blood relatives are truly difficult to rely on; brothers are inferior to friends.
The early poem says: Flowers and bamboo throughout the garden reflect the sunlight; willows spread their green and shade the doorway lintel.
With a good body, you pass through life peacefully; only the spring breeze of your later years is extraordinary.
The number two thousand three hundred:
The number two thousand three hundred with a remainder signifies flowers and trees meeting spring and fish and dragons gaining water. You are quick-minded and skillful, harmonious and compliant inside and out. Early years are laborious; later years prosper and establish the household. You succeed independently, cannot rely on close kin, and brothers have little strength to help. The wife is seen again, and children mean you are not alone. Gentlemen see your beauty; petty people cannot succeed. You have more successes than failures. Those with this number are fretful at ages one, two, and three, but a joyful star is within, so it is not greatly inauspicious. At eight or nine, benefactors support you; at fifteen, things are ordinary; at seventeen or eighteen, there is unexpected joy. The red curve of heavenly emolument is like flowers in bloom, and rain like the moon high in the sky. At twenty-three, great good fortune,At twenty-nine, petty people bring disputes of speech, but benefactors assist and there is no danger. At thirty, illness and mourning clothes occur, but it is not a great calamity. At sixty-nine, the minor limit arrives without obstruction. At seventy, the moon sinks into the blue sea. Two sons and one daughter see you through to the end. The number three thousand three hundred with a remainder: you work diligently for others; throughout life, your livelihood must be earned by yourself; like a lone tree or solitary boat, success does not come quickly.
The poem says: Whatever is lost may still be regained; a lifetime has little luck and much ruggedness.
Seeing wealth and silk come of themselves is like dreaming; even when reaching great prosperity, one may still remain dazed and sunk in gloom.
The number two thousand four hundred:
The number two thousand four hundred with a remainder signifies seedlings growing and chrysanthemums welcoming autumn. You are slow in nature yet intelligent, harmonious inside and out. Childhood is laborious; external wealth provides assistance. You are poor first and rich later, leave your ancestral home to establish a household, and have little support from close kin. If you have no brothers, even if you do, there is no reliance. A younger wife is suitable; otherwise the marriage is repeated. Petty people favor you, and you encounter wealth and honor. Many people with this number, from age three to twenty, suffer disasters involving pus and blood, illness, and fretfulness. If the fate contains a resolving star, worries do not become danger; with benefactors’ support, there is no great harm. At twenty-one, undertakings succeed and three years proceed smoothly,At twenty-five, the Luohou star shines on the life; disputes of speech recur, and it is difficult to pass through this period. At forty, great auspicious prosperity, like a fish gaining water or a tree meeting spring; benefactors appear, joy and wealth increase, and ten years bring great happiness. At forty-five, in the second month of winter, beware of resentment and conflict among flesh and blood. At forty-six and forty-seven, the dragon enters the sea and the tiger runs into the deep mountains. At fifty-eight, there are verbal disputes, illness, and mourning clothes; wealth may offset losses, and damaged matters need not be feared. At seventy-two, you encounter wind like a boat, like a stone sinking into the sea. At eighty-four, the great limit arrives; three sons and two daughters see you through to the end. The number two thousand four hundred has a further remainder,Childhood is laborious, old age is peaceful and clear; fortune stands like a tiger’s head on an ox’s back, and again and again you meet esteemed benefactors.
The poem says: Chrysanthemums do not fear the assault of severe frost; after hardship ends, joyful energy arises.
If you encounter it in the year of Chou during your period of fortune, everything will proceed smoothly and all affairs will prosper.
The number two thousand five hundred:
The number two thousand five hundred with a remainder signifies grass and trees in bloom and the pattern of a tiger’s roar raising the wind. You are clever and quick-witted, rich in knowledge and refined in many skills, able to understand ritual and righteousness. You act fairly, do not disdain poverty or favor wealth, and do not seek fame or profit; naturally you become prominent, surpassing the ordinary. Early years are unfavorable, but later years are glorious. A broken mirror is reunited. Close kin are cold and distant; brothers offer little strength. You establish a household independently, with a son before a daughter. Childhood brings calamities. The Luohou star shines on the life but does not cause great harm. You leave your ancestral home to establish a household. At seventeen or eighteen, happy events are indicated, but beware falls and missteps; when wealth comes, beware its dissipation. Several years are ordinary. On the day-seat, at twenty, good fortune is added to good fortune,Joy gives birth to good fortune. At twenty-eight or twenty-nine, there is financial loss and verbal dispute; joy can offset it. At thirty-one or thirty-two, joy appears, pressure is relieved, and wealth enters; five years bring quick profit. At thirty-seven, verbal conflict requires patience and is not dangerous. Spring and summer are ordinary; autumn and winter are greatly auspicious. At forty-seven, fretfulness appears but joy can offset it. At fifty-five, ten years of great profit. At sixty-seven, calamity, disputes, and financial loss occur; the first limit offers no protection. At seventy-eight, gloom arises in the heart. At eighty-one, a dream enters the land of millet; one son and two daughters see you through to the end. The number two thousand five hundred with a remainder: gradually honor, prosperity, wealth, and abundance arise; intelligence and wisdom bring much ingenuity; the tiger’s roar and the dragon’s cry cause all things to be born.
The poem says: Flowers, trees, and lingzhi are naturally extraordinary; after hardship comes ease and prosperity.
From the Mid-Autumn day onward there are many auspicious celebrations; throughout life, you are a hero unlike others.
The number two thousand six hundred:
The number two thousand six hundred with a remainder signifies flowers meeting spring and green mountains and beautiful waters. You are intelligent by nature, with no wolf-like malice in your heart. Ancestral property is difficult to rely on; you establish a household independently. A strong-willed wife is auspicious. Children are destined for glory. Brothers offer little strength; you maintain the household yourself. At nine, there is an unexpected disaster; at sixteen, great smoothness; at eighteen, disadvantage; at twenty-one, verbal disputes and financial loss. External mourning may be halved by joy. At twenty-three, spring and summer pass ordinarily and the four seasons are stable. At twenty-eight, an ominous star shines; if no disaster appears, financial loss is certain. At thirty-three, blessings are moderate. At forty-five, a withered tree meets spring and flowers bloom,Withered seedlings gain rain and naturally flourish. Once moving forward, ten years bring true profit. A wealthy household has great auspiciousness and layer upon layer of joy. At fifty-one, there is calamity but no great harm, though disputes may still occur. At fifty-nine, verbal disputes and right and wrong. From sixty-three, the final limit brings eight years of quick profit. Later years are bright and splendid. At seventy-seven, flowers wither and the moon wanes; brightness dries up and disappears. A pair of children see you through to the end. The number two thousand six hundred with a remainder: wild flowers compete in beauty and shine brightly; dragon, phoenix, rat, and ox bring many auspicious celebrations; each fresh flower is new in layer upon layer.
The poem says: A withered tree meets spring and does not wither again; grass appears green from afar but vanishes when approached.
Thriving and competing in luxuriance, your household wealth is abundant, comparable to Tao Zhu.
The number two thousand seven hundred:
The number two thousand seven hundred with a remainder signifies wealth, honor, purity, and lofty character, and the pattern of green pines in a cold valley. Your heart is like a wolf’s malice, your nature fierce as fire, and your mouth like a steel sword. You are decisive and just, do not avoid suspicion, live by righteousness, and tread a thick mat half-worn. Close kin have no strength; with a wife you are not alone. Later years are rather good, the final years greatly prosperous, and the cycles of fortune shine. This number brings calamity at ages three, six, and nine; if the natal chart has auspicious stars helping, there is no danger. At eighteen, good fortune exists amid misfortune. At twenty-one, six years are stable. At twenty-seven or twenty-eight, spring and summer bring insufficient satisfaction. At thirty-two, wealth and joy flourish, auspicious matters come repeatedly, and all plans succeed,At forty-two, things are unfavorable and everything undertaken goes wrong. At forty-six, there is calamity, but benefactors also assist. At fifty-seven, ten years of great prosperity. At sixty-seven, when the first limit arrives, there is no protection. At eighty-nine, tears are shed westward as departure approaches. Two sons and three daughters see you through to the end.
The poem says: The number two thousand seven hundred with a remainder brings visible emolument and a name engraved throughout the world.
My wife’s family and mine are both wealthy and prominent; blessings, longevity, health, and peace endure to eighty, fragrant and honored.
Pines and cypresses remain evergreen at the mouth of the chaotic rocks; your name is fragrant and surpasses your peers.
Heaven bestows blessings and emolument everywhere; the later years surpass youth.
The number two thousand eight hundred:
The number two thousand eight hundred with a remainder signifies red tassels shining in the sun and the pattern of mandarin ducks playing in water. You are noble in character and conduct, substantial inside and out, impartial in disposition, upright and selfless, and act with grandeur. Your intentions are clever and subtle. Close kin are punished or hindered by fate; brothers offer little strength. A wife is seen again, which is auspicious. Mourning from outside also arrives. Like a mad bee brewing honey, you have ten years; like an extraordinary flower spreading fragrance, you have three springs. At sixty-nine, misfortune turns into good fortune. At seventy-one, water flows east to the sea and a dream enters Nanke. Three sons and one daughter see you through to the end.
The poem says: The number two thousand eight hundred with a remainder is the brightest pattern when it appears in the destiny.
When opportunity arises, your lineage receives Heaven-bestowed emolument; office rises upon office, and blessings grow longer.
When the destined connection arrives, everything comes naturally; while supporting the endangered and rescuing the fallen, you meet a noble benefactor.
Close kin are cold and distant, but the wife’s palace is superior; later years are ruggedly magnificent like a pine forest.
The number two thousand nine hundred:
The number two thousand nine hundred with a remainder signifies willow trees meeting spring at the tomb and the pattern of jade pendants tinkling. You are warm, kind, respectful, frugal, upright, fair, compassionate, and intelligent. The wise seek your counsel; gentlemen have lofty aspirations. Brothers offer little strength. You are solitary and plain in your way of life. Middle-age fortune and limits bring achievement; later years are as stable as flowers, greatly auspicious. At three, many calamities; at fourteen, repeated disadvantages, including bloodshed, sores, poison, and disaster. At twenty, joy comes to you. At twenty-three, disputes and verbal quarrels, calamity, and mourning clothes are in force. At twenty-five, minor disaster and financial loss; caution offers protection. At twenty-eight, six years of smoothness. At thirty-four,The course of fortune opens widely; eminent people assist. At thirty-seven, two years are unfavorable. At thirty-nine, clothing and emolument are abundant, and wealth flourishes like a ship under full sail; one rise brings ten truly splendid years.Later years surpass the new spring. At fifty, office and emolument increase, and glory, wealth, and honor illuminate the household. At fifty-four, one year of fine profit. At fifty-five, all affairs bring auspicious celebrations. At fifty-eight, the household population faces unexpected events not caused by birth; wealth and honor become increasingly apparent, and the household changes. At sixty-nine, calamity comes to the door; give thanks to the gods for protection. At seventy-one, the minor limit approaches. At eighty-six, the great limit ends and you return to the great dream; summoned in the underworld, you ascend the road to the nether realm. Two sons see you through to the end.
The poem says: In late spring, flowers and willows meet the right season; civil strength and military excellence carry fame far.
You may receive the vermilion-robed general’s nod; climb the first branch of the cinnabar laurel.
Wherever ingenuity is applied, a household livelihood is established; do not worry about the future—the time will come of itself, though late.
Clear as water and bright as a mirror, daring like the sun and moon, illuminating without partiality.
The number three thousand:
The number three thousand with a remainder signifies a chicken transforming into a vermilion phoenix and the pattern of bamboo sheltering a study window.A person is clear-featured, beautiful, handsome, and elegant; noble people see and cherish them. They are quick-tempered but not malicious, and are not guarded against anything because they do not speak of right and wrong. They cannot rely much on the ancestral estate; the six kinds of relatives offer little support, and siblings are distant. The spouse and children have a noble air. There are successes and failures in youth, but prosperity comes in the final period. According to this destiny, at ages three, five, and nine, and at age twelve, illness and calamity bring mixed good and bad fortune; age fourteen passes ordinarily, with no clear rise or fall; at age eighteen, joy gives birth to worry; at age twenty-three, repeated happy events come to fulfill the heart’s wishes; at age twenty-six, minor quarrels and disputes require patience and pose no danger; at ages twenty-eight and thirty, ‘the wind sends a lone boat away with the current, while the sun shines on lotus blossoms, making them distinctively red’; at age thirty-two, beauty, harmony, and fulfillment prevail.At thirty-seven, minor calamity offers no protection. At thirty-nine, wealth and honor arise naturally without seeking them; without hoping for fame, achievement comes naturally. Once you depart, ten years are like a star’s position; added wealth and joy fulfill your heart. At forty-two, verbal disputes and financial loss bring poor fortune. At forty-six, calamity and illness affect the body. At forty-seven, fortune arrives, bringing office and emolument; good fortune adds flowers to brocade again and again. When the time comes, ten years are greatly prosperous; take a large ship across the water. At fifty-two, minor calamity offers no protection. At sixty-two, beware petty people; insufficiency arises, but in joyful years the household is safe. At seventy-nine and eighty, there is a road to the Yellow Springs, with no form remaining in this world. Three sons and one daughter see you through to the end.
The poem says: The number three thousand with a further remainder brings surging emolument and blessings, displaying awesome fame.
You regularly ride in a lofty carriage with four horses; you will surely ascend to the Zi Palace and the court of nobles.
Once you rise straight to the blue clouds, the Kun transforms into a Peng and reaches the magpie bridge.
Your name is inscribed on the wild geese’s reply and becomes renowned throughout the world; the carp in the pond climbs the Dragon Gate.
The number three thousand one hundred:
Three thousand one hundred with remainder: this is the image of a bird transforming into a golden rooster, and the pattern of flowers reflected on green moss. You are kindhearted and free of malice; you begin and finish what you undertake. When entering official service, you uphold benevolence. You do good and refrain from evil, always cherishing the wish to aid the world and help others, with every cup expressing respect for the elderly and compassion for the poor. Advancing, your reputation becomes prominent; withdrawing, you find peace in the woods. Your early years are ordinary, with no extraordinary strength. At ages three, six, and nine, life proceeds smoothly; at eighteen, a calamity star shines upon you, but noble people offer assistance and turn misfortune into good fortune. At twenty-nine, disputes and gossip can be endured without harm. At thirty-eight, it is like a withered tree meeting spring, or a dried seedling receiving rain.The clouds clear and the sun appears; wealth arrives with great auspiciousness. At forty-nine, Heavenly Virtue and Six Harmonies shine upon you, bringing no harm. At fifty-six, things proceed smoothly. At sixty, official affairs and descendants are unfavorable, but there is no major harm. At sixty-seven, life is ordinary. At seventy-one, the soul rises and the po descends; you leave the realm of sunlight and return to the realm of yin. Two sons and one daughter see you through the end.
The verse says: Three thousand one hundred with remainder; your resounding reputation is destined to surpass the crowd.
Your family grows wealthy, its people live in peace, and your wife and children become honored; joy is added to joy as the household is transformed.
You repeatedly bow before the flower-lit candles and behold your later years; official rank and emoluments rise ever higher.
You have only brothers, but no one to rely on; standing tall on your own, you establish merit and achievement.
Three thousand two hundred:
Three thousand two hundred with remainder: this is the image of a snake transforming into a flood dragon, and the pattern of a crane following phoenixes. You are quick-tempered but not evil, kindhearted and without malice, gentle in speech, loyal and honest. You possess the aspirations of a gentleman and the character of a benevolent person. You cannot rely on your six kin; ancestral property is difficult to preserve, and brothers are of little help. You have successive marriages, and among your children a noble person emerges. At ages three and five, there are disasters involving bloodshed. At twelve and twenty-two, noble people guide you, and your prospects gradually brighten. At twenty-one, the sun rises in the east and clouds spread across the white frontier. At twenty-eight, disputes and gossip arise, and mourning from outside the family also arrives; a happy event may offset half of it. At thirteen, the boat follows the flowing water,the moon rises high. At thirty-six, a minor disaster causes no harm. At thirty-eight, lawsuits continue one after another, but noble people assist and turn misfortune into good fortune. At forty-one, spring mud gives birth to all grasses, and autumn winds that kill everything ultimately bring success; when you move, wind rises as a tiger runs, and when you roar, the valleys echo like a tiger’s cry. At forty-six, a minor disaster causes no harm. At forty-seven and forty-eight, one year departs in a torrent, followed by twelve years of entering a period when added family brings great joy and prosperity. At fifty, life is plain and uneventful. At fifty-two and fifty-three, loss of wealth is unfavorable. At fifty-six, the mist and clouds part and the red sun appears; the blue gown is removed and a new purple robe is donned. At seventy, the oil in the cup is exhausted and the lamp is about to go out.If hidden virtue is great, life may be extended; at eighty, the fate of death arrives. Three daughters and one son see you through the end.
The verse says: Three thousand two hundred with remainder; bold and broad-minded, your heart knows no fear.
When the Ox meets the Rat or Snake, honor and prominence abound; the crane follows phoenixes and spreads its fame.
The kun transforms into a peng and climbs the road to the clouds; the carp changes into a dragon and leaps through the Dragon Gate.
Reward follows virtue without fail; longevity is like the Southern Mountain, and fate is naturally fulfilled.
Three thousand three hundred:
Three thousand three hundred with remainder: this is the image of a dragon entering the blue sea, and the pattern of a stone cherishing another mountain. You are clever and quick-witted, eloquent, outstanding and exceptional, dedicated to saving the world and helping people. Your nature is like wind and fire: when pleased, your face is filled with spring breeze; when angry, a cold wind brushes your countenance. Fame and rank become prominent; with diligent effort, advancement is not difficult. Brothers and six kin lack affection; your wife brings conflict, while your children include noble people, outstanding among their peers, bringing fame and honor to the family. At ages three and five there are disasters, mostly causing unease. At ten, you pass through normally. At fifteen and seventeen, happy matters are easily accomplished, with abundant blessings and good fortune. At nineteen, rain suddenly clears. At twenty, all grasses sprout,noble people lend their strength, bringing added joy and wealth—great auspiciousness. At twenty-six and twenty-seven, good deeds go unrecognized, and sorrow is born again amid joy. At thirty, adversity departs and prosperity arrives. At thirty-six, what was originally beautiful turns bad; excessive joy gives birth to sorrow again. At thirty-eight, the moon reaches the center of heaven and shines upon all nations; flowers are added to brocade, and ten new years begin. At forty-three, a minor disaster appears, but a happy event can avert it. At forty-six, the Luohou star entangles you, causing loss of wealth and possessions and unrest from mourning garments. At forty-eight and forty-nine, there is peace and great auspiciousness, with unexpected wealth arriving. At fifty, the family prospers and wealth flourishes, with new members joining the household, bringing pure auspicious peace. At fifty-five, it is unfavorable but not harmful.At fifty-eight and fifty-nine, the years pass with much good fortune; your later years flourish, surpassing a new spring. Two sons and one daughter see you through the end.
The verse says: Three thousand three hundred, a complete and vigorous number; like a fish finding water and leaping through the deep abyss.
The family’s reputation rises greatly, and the children flourish; jewels are accumulated widely and the granary is filled with silver.
A flawless piece of jade is mixed among stones; if it meets an enlightened and worthy judge, it too can be distinguished.
When the dragon, tiger, wind, and clouds meet, you will surely display your statecraft amid thunder and rain.
Three thousand four hundred:
Three thousand four hundred with remainder: this is the image of a sail floating on the sea, and the pattern of spring grass receiving nourishment. You possess the aspirations of a gentleman and are a fine vessel like the ceremonial jade vessel.Your appearance and natural abilities are beautiful; your disposition supports others, and you are generally harmonious and cheerful. Your fortune is sometimes abundant and sometimes thin; wealth gathers quickly and disperses quickly. It is difficult to have support from your six kin. Without brothers, even relatives are hard to rely on. You give kindness but receive resentment in return. Establishing a household depends on you; you become prominent in public service, not through farming. The early years are unfavorable, but the final period is powerful. You have a heart that respects the elderly and pities the poor, making yours a destiny of both fortune and emolument. At ages three and twelve, things are unfavorable. At eighteen, blessings and joy increase, with both auspicious and inauspicious matters. At twenty, wealth and people arrive together in great abundance, and fortune and rank begin to flourish. At twenty-two, the Luohou star shines upon your fate, making undertakings unfavorable; because kindness brings much anger, guard against disasters in spring and summer, and expect daily disputes.Loss of wealth and harm to people can be avoided if a happy sign appears. At thirty-two, a noble person obtains what is needed for you, bringing added wealth and joy; thereafter, ten years are like flowers on brocade, with glory, riches, and honor all complete. At forty-one, even what is withered flourishes again. At fifty-five and sixty-three, great auspiciousness and success. At sixty-six, the King of Hell has determined death at the third watch—how could he keep a person until the fifth watch? In one dream the soul enters the darkness; three sons see you through the end, with tears streaming.
The verse says: Three thousand four hundred with remainder; the family’s resources are abundant, comparable to Tao Zhu.
In the years of the Snake and Rat, prosperity abounds, just like peach blossoms growing lush beneath the rain.
Lush grasses compete in flourishing, their colors green and tender; fine trees delight the eye, their growth dense and luxuriant.
When seedlings reach their flowering beauty, they become treasures; melons continue to grow abundantly, never withering.
Three thousand five hundred:
Three thousand five hundred with remainder: this is the image of the sun rising and the moon waxing, and the pattern of jade chimes and golden bells. Your aspirations are lofty, with both literary and martial talents; your spirit is clear and refreshed, and your schemes are broad. Gentlemen rejoice in you, while petty people resent you. Your wife is virtuous and your descendants honored. Youth is laborious, middle age plain, and old age powerful—an upper-grade destiny. The six kin offer little strength; brothers lack affection. You establish a household independently and stabilize your foundation alone. This number is ordinary at first; at eight and nine there are many disasters. At fourteen, fortune begins. At eighteen there is joy and wealth. At twenty, fortune is quite good and auspicious energy fills the household. At twenty-eight, the dragon returns to the sea,the moon shines at midheaven, and wealth prospers. At thirty-four, disputes, loss of wealth, and mourning from outside the family arise. At thirty-six, six years of great prosperity begin. At thirty-seven, spring and summer bring disasters, but a happy event may offset half of them. At forty-one, ten years pass swiftly and smoothly: sails rise over the sea and smoky willows conceal the gate. At fifty-one, life passes ordinarily. At fifty-two, the moon at mid-autumn is exceptionally bright; your son is honored and your wife glorious. At sixty-one, flowers are added to brocade, and joy appears amid sorrow. At seventy-one, the minor cycle causes no harm. At eighty, when the major limit arrives, each departs and flies on its own; the crane spreads its wings and returns west. Three sons and one daughter see you through the end.
The verse says: Three thousand five hundred with remainder; more stagnation in youth, greater ease in old age.
The sun departs and the moon arrives through enduring ages; the jade resonance and golden voice gather into great accomplishment.
At the Yu Gate, waves suddenly rise three levels; on level ground, a thunderclap startles all.
Not only will you spread your name and illuminate your ancestors; you will also enrich your descendants with the fragrance of learning.
Three thousand six hundred:
Three thousand six hundred with remainder: this is the image of having a way to generate wealth, and the pattern of flawless jade. Your aspirations are pure and lofty; you respect the elderly, pity the poor, care for orphans, and support widows. You always retain a heart that loves people, with no intention of deceiving them. You speak bluntly and think directly; your character is upright and conduct proper. Your wife is worthy and your children filial; your elder brother is patient and younger brother generous. Youth is ordinary, while the middle and final periods are better. This number has many disasters in youth; at eight and nine, life is ordinary; at eleven, it is beautiful; at eighteen and nineteen, things are unfavorable; at twenty, wealth and joy enter and whatever you undertake succeeds. At twenty-five, thunder startles a hundred miles and shines across the nine regions. At twenty-eight, guard against gossip and also fear loss of wealth; if the Straight Relief Star is well placed,and you also receive assistance from noble people, it will not be harmful. At thirty-five, wealth, honor, benefit, and success fill the household. At forty-two, guard against gossip, illness, and disaster. At forty-eight, official disputes and loss of wealth. At forty-nine, fortune is low. At fifty, misfortune. At sixty-eight, the minor cycle causes no harm. At eighty-two, the major limit brings clouds and rain. One son and one daughter see you through the end.
The verse says: Three thousand six hundred, greatly surpassing others; the crane follows phoenixes into the clear heavens.
Longevity is like the Southern Mountain, firm as layered stone; fortune is like the Eastern Sea, surging without end.
When the time comes, the wind carries you to the Pavilion of Prince Teng; when fortune arrives, you alone stand as the great sea turtle in the ocean.
The waters of Pan River give off fragrance, yet your aspiration is not fulfilled; in the Moon Palace, you pluck the cassia branch and gaze high toward heaven.
Three thousand seven hundred:
In the three thousand seven hundred with remainder, this is the image of the Dragon Horse bearing the diagram, and the pattern of the phoenix crying in the wilderness. You are handsome and elegant, intelligent and clever, humble and gentle in speech, clear-minded in aspiration, loyal and honest, passing the family tradition onward. Your wisdom surpasses others, and you excel in both virtue and ability. You can handle literature and martial affairs alike. Your wife is worthy and your children filial; your sons are honored and descendants prosperous, possessing the power to turn the cosmos and the heart to pacify the realm and stabilize the state. Youth is smooth, middle age beneficial and successful, old age prosperous. This number is bitter first and sweet later: youth is stumbling, undertakings are hard to complete, and plans do not go as wished. At eighteen, fortune is good for six years. At twenty-four and twenty-five, fame and rank are promising and emoluments rise high. At twenty-eight, a minor disaster;At thirty, great prosperity: clouds arise from the scriptures and wind rises from the tiger. Official disputes and gossip occur, but with a star of resolution there is no harm. At thirty-eight, spring mountains seem to smile and summer clouds form many extraordinary peaks. At forty-two, auspicious clouds gather and a hundred blessings arrive together. At fifty-two, all flowers smile upon meeting spring; the Five Blessings come from Heaven. The ten-year course is beautiful, and the moonlight shines over three generations. At sixty-two, the minor cycle is about to arrive. At seventy-two, the Rooster is like a dream and the Wood Horse carries the message; a pair of children ultimately sees you through.
The verse says: Three thousand seven hundred with remainder; the bird follows phoenixes and cries high in the wilderness.
If it does not fly, so be it; once it flies, it soars into the Milky Way. If it does not cry, so be it; once it cries, it astonishes people.
The granary is full and grain is stored; life is sufficient, people are safe, goods abundant, and all affairs prosper.
When fortune meets the Ox and Rat, fame and profit are achieved; a hundred blessings arrive together, and joy comes layer upon layer.
Three thousand eight hundred:
Three thousand eight hundred with remainder: this is the image of dragons flying and phoenixes dancing, and the pattern of fish leaping and hawks soaring. Your nature is like wind and fire, but you are not treacherous. You are intelligent, clever, upright, fair, capable in literature and martial affairs, versatile, and adept at everything. Your name is known throughout the four seas. A younger wife is suitable; this is a destiny that enjoys blessings. If your predecessors had virtue, you would survive nine deaths out of ten, though you would experience many frights. At ten, life is prosperous. At fifteen, you exchange flowers and graft branches; there is a solution and no harm. At nineteen, a minor disaster occurs, but an auspicious event can avert the gossip. At twenty-eight, a withered seedling receives rain and a dead tree meets spring; thereafter eight years bring an elevated reputation, a wealthy household, and half of all wealth. At forty-two,Gossip and financial loss; disasters in spring and summer. At forty-three, fortune turns beautiful. Prosper for ten years; accomplish things in the east and west. A red apricot branch extends over the wall. At sixty-nine, calamities come one after another, and nothing goes smoothly. At ninety, enjoy the blessings of the human world at just the right time; an imperial edict from Heaven arrives again. Two sons and one daughter see you through to the end.
The verse says: Three thousand eight hundred, a complete number; possessing both firmness and flexibility, longevity endures.
Glory in youth, prosperity in middle age; the winter scene is withered, but the spring scene is fresh.
Two sons see you through the end, with a daughter accompanying them; your wife is estranged and the six kin are cold.
In old age, you become even more vigorous like pine and cypress; even with white hair, you can retain a youthful face.
Three thousand nine hundred:
There are three thousand nine hundred and some in the count: the image of a crane dancing through the sky, the pattern of a swan playing in the sea. Exceptionally intelligent, outstanding in planning, distinguished through military authority, and renowned in literature. Having cultivated heavenly nobility, one may attain human nobility. You often possess the magnanimity of a great person and harbor no petty-minded thoughts. Wealth and honor cannot corrupt you; poverty and low status cannot make you waver; force and power cannot bend you. This is the destiny of a great man under Heaven. At thirty-seven, adversity is cause for concern. At thirty-eight, all flowers bloom fresh in every hue; amid myriad purples and reds, it is always spring. At forty, the scene of fortune lasts for ten years, and prosperity and blessings are boundless. For a great person, an advantageous omen appears: the flying dragon is now in Heaven.At fifty-four, the great end is present all day; if you do not listen, naturally there is nothing to be done. Endure a moment’s anger to avoid a hundred days of worry. At sixty-two, each year passes ordinarily, time flying like an arrow. At seventy-four, the days and months rush like a shuttle; suddenly you reach the western realm, peach blossoms and flowing water disappear into the distance, revealing another world unlike the human realm. Three sons and one daughter, wearing mourning hemp, escort the coffin to the mountain.
The verse says: Three thousand nine hundred, a complete number; whoever has this in life possesses blessings that continue without end.
Your aspirations are great, your words generous, your capacity great; your household is broad, your hands open, and your heart broad.
With firmness and constancy, all affairs are complete; through a hundred years of wind and clouds, you can rival Heaven.