The star at the very center of the Imperial Palace is called the Tianji Star. It shines brighter than all surrounding stars and represents the position of the heavenly god Taiyi. Three smaller stars nearby symbolize the Three Dukes, with some claiming they represent the sons or followers of Taiyi. Behind the Tianji Star is a group of four hook-shaped stars, with the brightest of these called the Zhengfei (Primary Consort), and the other three represent secondary concubines of the imperial harem. Surrounding the Tianji Star are twelve stars, representing both civil and military officials, and together they are known as the Zigong, or Purple Palace.
The front part of the Purple Palace faces the Doukou, with three stars arranged in an oval shape, pointed at the north end. The faint star at the tip is called Yinde (Virtuous Deeds), or sometimes Tianyi (Heavenly One). To the left of the Purple Palace are three stars known as Tianqiang (Heavenly Spear), while to the right are five stars named Tianban (Heavenly Balance). Six stars behind this group stretch across the Milky Way, forming a line known as Gedao (Pavilion Path).
The Big Dipper, composed of seven stars, is referred to in the Shangshu (Classic of Documents) as the “Seven Luminaries,” and is linked to the Seven Stars of the Dipper. The Dipper’s handle is connected to the Jiao star of the Eastern Palace, while its other part aligns with the Yin star of the Southern Dipper. The northernmost star, Doukui, aligns with the Shen star in the Western Dipper. At dusk, the direction of the Dipper’s handle marks the position for calculating the months of the four seasons. The Dipper itself functions like the Emperor’s celestial vehicle, controlling and regulating the cosmos, establishing the four seasons, and determining the positions of the twelve Chinese zodiac signs.
Above Doukui, six stars form a basket-like shape, called the Wenchang Palace, representing various officials and duties. Among them, the star named “Guiren Zhi Lao” (Prison of the Noble) represents the prisoner of state. Nearby, six stars grouped in three pairs symbolize “Three Neng” (Three Capabilities), signifying harmony or tension between rulers and ministers, depending on whether their brightness is the same or different.
At the end of the Dipper’s handle are two stars: Tianmao (Heavenly Spear) close to the Dipper, and Tiangeng (Heavenly Shield) farther away. Fifteen stars close to the Dipper form a curved shape and are referred to as “Prisoners of Low Rank,” signifying worldly prisoners based on the number and brightness of stars within the formation.
The Eastern Palace, called Canglong (Azure Dragon), includes the following stars: Fang and Xin. Xin is where the Emperor issues decrees, with the central star representing the Heavenly King and two smaller ones representing his children. If these stars form a straight line, it symbolizes improper rulership. Fang represents the imperial palace, with the northern star named Youfen (Right Steed), and two stars named Jin and Xiang. The northeast part of Fang is marked by twelve stars arranged like a flag, symbolizing prosperity or poverty depending on their number.
The Jiao star represents judicial punishment and military affairs, while nearby the large Jiao star indicates the Emperor’s public court. Two triangular-shaped star clusters, called Sheti, align with the direction of the Dipper’s handle, guiding the calendar and seasons.
The Southern Palace, named Zhu Niao (Vermilion Bird), includes the stars Quan and Heng. Heng refers to the Tawei Palace, where the Sun, Moon, and Five Planets are housed. Nearby stars represent the imperial court’s military and administrative officials. The Southern Palace also includes a series of stars predicting military events and disasters based on their alignment with the Five Planets.
The Southern Dipper, or Nandu, represents the Emperor’s temple, with stars such as Jian and Xian marking key events. The nearby star, Tian Xie (Heavenly Arrow), is significant in divination. Observing the motion of stars and their impact on the seasons can predict the fate of nations, with deviations in the star paths signaling disasters like war, drought, or floods.
The Year of the Great Wasteland – Year of the Snake (Si):
In the Year of the Snake, the zodiac sign is in the Si position, and the star of the year (Sui Xing) is in the Xu position. In April, the Sui Xing appears in the east in the early morning along with the stars of Kui and Lou, known as Pian Zhong (a term indicating the star’s early rise). The star glows brightly with a red color, radiating light. If the Sui Xing is in an incorrect position, it should appear with the Kang Star.
The Year of Dun Tang – Year of the Horse (Wu):
In the Year of the Horse, the zodiac sign is in the Wu position, and the Sui Xing is in the You position. In May, the Sui Xing appears in the east in the early morning with the stars Wei, Mao, and Bi, known as Tian Ming (the appearance of dawn). The star shines brightly. This year should cease military actions, and it is favorable for rulers to enact policies, but not for military actions. If the Sui Xing is misaligned, it will show signs near the Fang Star. An early appearance of the Sui Xing suggests a drought, while a late appearance signals a flood.
The Year of Ye Qia – Year of the Sheep (Wei):
In the Year of the Sheep, the zodiac sign is in the Wei position, and the Sui Xing is in the Shen position. In June, the Sui Xing appears in the east along with the stars Zi Zhi and Shen, known as Chang Lie (the long line). The star shines brilliantly. This year is favorable for military campaigns. If the Sui Xing is misaligned, it will show signs near the Ji Star.
The Year of Tun Tan – Year of the Monkey (Shen):
In the Year of the Monkey, the zodiac sign is in the Shen position, and the Sui Xing is in the Wei position. In July, the Sui Xing appears in the east with the stars Dong Jing and Yu Gui, known as Da Yin (the great sound). The star glows brightly with a white light. If the Sui Xing is misaligned, it should be seen with the Qian Niu Star.
The Year of Zuo E – Year of the Rooster (You):
In the Year of the Rooster, the zodiac sign is in the You position, and the Sui Xing is in the Wu position. In August, the Sui Xing appears in the east along with the stars Liu, Qi Xing, and Zhang, known as Chang Wang (the long king). The star shines brightly with pointed rays. This year is a prosperous one, with abundant harvests. If misaligned, the omen will be seen near the Wei Star. A drought may occur, but there will still be a good harvest, though there will be deaths of the queen or consorts, and epidemics may spread among the people.
The Year of Yan Mao – Year of the Dog (Xu):
In the Year of the Dog, the zodiac sign is in the Xu position, and the Sui Xing is in the Si position. In September, the Sui Xing appears in the east with the stars Yi and Zhen, known as Tian Sui (the heavenly eye). The star shines white, large, and bright. If the Sui Xing is misaligned, it should be seen with the Dong Bi Star. This year will likely bring floods or the death of a female ruler.
The Year of Da Yuan – Year of the Pig (Hai):
In the Year of the Pig, the zodiac sign is in the Hai position, and the Sui Xing is in the Chen position. In October, the Sui Xing appears in the east with the stars Jiao and Kang, known as Da Zhang (the great chapter). The star glows faintly, resembling a star attempting to rise before dawn, known as Zheng Yan. This year is favorable for military campaigns, with generals achieving success. The nation corresponding to the Sui Xing will possess virtue, and its ruler will unite the world. If the Sui Xing is misaligned, it will show signs near the Lou Star.
The Year of Kun Dun – Year of the Rat (Zi):
In the Year of the Rat, the zodiac sign is in the Zi position, and the Sui Xing is in the Mao position. In November, the Sui Xing appears in the east along with the stars Di, Fang, and Xin, known as Tian Quan (the heavenly spring). The star glows dark, bright, and mysterious. This year is favorable for peaceful endeavors in the rivers and lakes but not for military operations. If the Sui Xing is misaligned, it should be seen with the Mao Star.
The Year of Chi Fen Ruo – Year of the Ox (Chou):
In the Year of the Ox, the zodiac sign is in the Chou position, and the Sui Xing is in the Yin position. In December, the Sui Xing appears in the east with the stars Wei and Ji, known as Tian Hao (the heavenly brightness). The star shines yellow and bright. If misaligned, it should be seen with the Shen Star.
Summary of Omens:
If the Sui Xing lingers in a certain place when it should not, or moves erratically, it can foretell great disaster in the corresponding nation. If the star lingers too long in a place, it indicates prosperity for the corresponding nation. If the star’s light flickers or its color changes unpredictably, it suggests concerns for the ruler.
Additional Observations:
- Sui Xing Misalignment: When the Sui Xing moves northeast or southeast in an incorrect pattern, it will bring omens of disaster such as comets, floods, or military conflicts.
- The Five Stars and Their Alignments: The alignment of the five major stars (Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Venus, and Mercury) is often used in traditional astrology to predict war, famine, or prosperity based on their conjunctions.
- Misalignment and Warfare: If Jupiter and Saturn align, it can foretell internal strife and famine. Mars and Venus align could lead to drought or death.
The Appearance of the Venus Star and Its Significance
When the Venus star (Tai Bai) appears in the west, moving eastward, it brings good fortune to the countries in the west. Conversely, when it appears in the east and moves westward, the countries to the east are favored. If the Venus star crosses the entire sky (meaning it rises in the east and sets in the west, or the reverse), it indicates a major upheaval in the world.
When the Venus star’s light wavers or flickers slightly, it signifies that war is likely. If the star initially appears very bright but its brightness gradually fades, it suggests that the military power of the corresponding country is weak. On the other hand, if the star begins with little brightness but becomes much brighter, it indicates that the military power of the corresponding country is strong.
When the Venus star appears higher in the sky, it is beneficial for the military to advance deep into enemy territory; however, direct confrontations are unfavorable. When the Venus star is lower in the sky, it is auspicious for shallow advances into enemy territory, but deeper incursions may be dangerous.
If the sun moves southward and the Venus star is to the south of the sun, or if the sun moves northward and the Venus star is to the north, this is called “winning.” It signifies that the ruler will not be at ease. If a country is engaged in war, advancing is beneficial, but retreating brings danger.
If the sun moves southward with the Venus star northward, or the sun moves northward with the Venus star southward, this is called “shrinking.” It signifies that the ruler faces trouble. In this case, retreating is auspicious, while advancing is perilous.
In terms of military strategy, it is essential to observe the Venus star’s motion: if the star moves quickly, the military should aim for a swift resolution; if it moves slowly, caution and patience are required.
If the Venus star has sharp rays, it indicates that soldiers are keen and ready to fight. If the star flickers or wavers, it suggests restlessness, signaling that the military should also be active. If the Venus star is round and still, the military should remain calm. It is auspicious to advance in the direction the rays point, and unfavorable to march against them.
When the Venus star appears, it suggests a need to deploy troops. When it disappears beneath the horizon, it is time to withdraw. If the Venus star has red rays, it foreshadows war; white rays indicate a death; black rays, especially dull ones, predict national distress or flooding; green rays with small, dull points suggest the country will face calamities related to the wood element in the Five Elements; yellow rays with soft and round points indicate that there will be prosperity or good harvests.
If the Venus star appears and disappears intermittently, or if it reappears after being hidden for several days, this is a sign that a country’s general may face defeat or a setback in battle.
If the Venus star moves erratically, with irregular motions in the sky, it suggests that a country’s military may fail. When it appears in the western sky and moves erratically, it indicates a foreign invasion will fail; in the east, it predicts failure for the domestic army.
If the Venus star is large and round, its yellow and lustrous appearance indicates that it is auspicious for diplomatic missions or peace treaties. If it is red, although the military is strong, there may not be any war.
The Venus Star and Its Associated Colors and Effects
The Venus star’s colors have symbolic meanings. White is associated with the Wolf Star; red with the Heart Star; yellow with the major star on the left shoulder of the Big Dipper; blue with the major star on the right shoulder; and black with a star in the Northern Dipper. The gathering of five major stars in one constellation signifies dominance in the corresponding region.
The Venus star’s position in the sky is crucial for understanding its influence: if it remains in an appropriate place, it will bring tangible benefits to the corresponding country. If it lingers in an unsuitable location, the country may face prosperity without gains.
In the event of the Venus star being concealed or obstructed in the sky, the specific configuration will determine whether a country’s army is likely to fail or be trapped. For instance, if the Venus star lingers in the western sky, it signifies a weakening of the opponent’s forces; if in the eastern sky, it can indicate that the domestic army will prevail.
When the Venus star moves quickly, it represents military readiness. Conversely, when it moves slowly, the military should advance cautiously and wait for the right opportunity.
Timing and Symbolism of the Venus Star’s Movements
The Venus star has specific associations based on the time of day or year. If it is visible before noon, it signals the rise of powerful forces. If it is visible after noon, it signals the decline of those forces.
The Venus star has many names, such as the Yin Star, Tai Zheng, Ying Xing, and others, each highlighting its influence on the military, diplomatic relations, and even agriculture. For those in high office, such as a general, it is crucial to observe the Venus star’s movements to predict both auspicious and inauspicious outcomes.
The Venus star’s behavior in relation to other stars is also significant. If it aligns with or conflicts with other fixed stars, it can indicate either minor or large-scale conflicts. For example, if it crosses paths with a major planet or another star, a significant war is likely.
Conjunctions and Interactions of Other Stars
When Venus is accompanied by Jupiter, a luminous conjunction occurs, indicating a period of peace and prosperity, though the military may not be involved in direct combat. When Venus aligns with Mars, or is in opposition with other planets, it often signals the onset of a great war.
The moon’s interaction with the Venus star is also notable. If it obscures Venus, the corresponding general may face death in battle. When Venus is eclipsed by the moon, it suggests turmoil or upheaval.
Seasonal Influence of the Venus Star
In terms of seasonal influence, the Venus star’s behavior is linked to changes in weather and prosperity. For instance, during spring, the Venus star appears in a pale yellow color, signaling a good harvest. If it appears during summer or winter, it may forewarn of drought or flooding, while autumn sightings often indicate prosperity and bountiful crops.
The Role of Other Stars in Battle Predictions
Various other stars, such as the “Rabbit Star” and “Cheng Star,” are also linked to military outcomes. The appearance of these stars can signify specific events, such as rebellion, famine, or war. For example, when the Rabbit Star appears in a particular position, it may signal a major policy change or threat to the general public.
Similarly, the Moon’s position in the sky and its relationship to other stars provides further insight into the military situation. If it eclipses a particular star, it can predict that a general will fall in battle or that the kingdom may face internal rebellion.
The Star of the Nation’s Emperor (Guo Huang Xing) is a large, red star resembling the star of the Antarctic Old Man. When it appears in any given constellation, it signifies that war will break out in the corresponding region, with strong military forces. The country opposite to this star’s constellation will face unfavorable outcomes.
The Bright Star (Zhao Ming Xing) is a large white star without spikes or corners, moving erratically up and down. When it appears, it indicates that war is likely in the corresponding region, and the situation will be volatile and unpredictable.
The Five Broken Stars (Wu Can Xing) appear in the due east, high in the sky above the eastern border. These stars are similar in shape to the Chen star, approximately six zhang (a traditional Chinese unit of measurement) above the ground.
The Great Thief Star (Da Ze Xing) appears in the due south, high in the sky above the southern border. This large red star, which shakes and glows, predicts that trouble and chaos will come from the south.
The Star of Danger (Si Wei Xing) appears in the due west, in the western border’s sky. It is a large white star, similar to the Venus star (Tai Bai Xing), and signifies impending peril in the western regions.
The Prison Star (Yu Han Xing) appears in the due north, high in the northern sky. This large red star often shakes, and upon close inspection, a faint green hue can be observed within it, indicating that the northern regions will face trouble.
The four directional stars mentioned above—if they appear in the wrong positions—signal that war will likely occur in the corresponding countries. Countries opposite the positions of these stars will also suffer misfortune.
The Four Fill Stars (Si Tian Xing) appear in the four corners of the celestial sphere (Northeast, Northwest, etc.) and are about four zhang above the ground.
The Earth’s Radiant Star (Di Wei Xian Guang Xing) appears in the same four corners and shines faintly, resembling the moon’s first appearance. It indicates that if a region is in turmoil, the rebels will be defeated, and virtuous leaders will rise to prosperity.
The Torch Star (Zhu Xing) resembles the Venus star and does not move once it appears. It fades quickly, and the region it corresponds to will face internal strife.
The Return Star (Gui Xie) is a peculiar star that looks neither like a star nor a cloud, signaling that a surrender or submission to China will take place in the region it appears.
Stars are considered manifestations of the dispersal of metal energy in the Five Elements, essentially fire. A large number of stars indicate prosperity for the corresponding countries, while fewer stars bring misfortune.
The Heavenly Han (Tian Han) is another form of scattered metal energy, akin to water. A large number of stars in the Heavenly Han indicates that the region will face flooding, while fewer stars suggest droughts.
The Heavenly Drum (Tian Gu) sounds like thunder but is not thunder. Its sound is heard on the ground, but the source is not located there. If heard, it signifies the rise of military forces.
The Heavenly Dog (Tian Gou) is a large meteor, accompanied by a rumbling sound. It emits a fiery glow as it falls. The place where it lands will be marked by a large impact crater, and it symbolizes aggressive, unstoppable military forces capable of marching across great distances.
The Fire Star (Ge Ze Xing) appears like a flame, with yellow and white colors rising from the ground. It signifies a year of great harvest, but if no harvest occurs, disaster will follow.
The Flag of Chi You (Chi You Qi) is shaped like a comet, with its tail curved like a flag. Its appearance signals a king’s campaign to conquer all territories.
The First Star (Xun Shi) appears near the Big Dipper and resembles a rooster. When enraged, it has spikes and is dark-colored, resembling a turtle in shape.
The Crooked Arrow Star (Wang Shi) is like a shooting star, curved like a snake, and appears dark with a feather-like appearance.
The Long Geng Star (Chang Geng Xing) resembles a piece of cloth hanging in the sky, and its appearance signifies that military action will rise.
When a star falls to the ground, it is akin to a stone. In regions like the Yellow River or Ji Shui, star stones often fall.
On clear and bright days, Jing Xing or the Star of Virtue, which signifies good governance, often appears. Its shape is unpredictable and can appear in well-governed countries.
Clouds and their meanings: Clouds are crucial in divination. Their patterns, colors, and movement can indicate military activity, natural disasters, or a country’s prosperity. Different types of clouds—such as those resembling beasts or human-like shapes—have specific meanings, signaling either good or bad omens depending on their shapes and positions.
In northern regions, clouds resembling animal herds or yurts represent the influence of southern tribes, while clouds from the south resemble boats and flags, symbolizing the movements of southern forces.
In places with abundant water or those where armies have been defeated, clouds may take on unusual shapes. For example, a mirage seen on the sea may resemble a palace or tower, indicating the rise of power or potential battle.
The Eight Winds: Divination based on the direction of winds—such as those coming from the south, southwest, or east—can predict drought, war, or the overall success of crops for the year.
The Year’s Beginning: The year’s first signs are important for divination. The first day of the year (whether it’s the winter solstice or the second day of the La Festival) can indicate the general prosperity or misfortune of the coming year, depending on the winds and weather conditions.
The Grand Historian said: Since the formation of human society, how could any dynasty’s rulers have not placed great importance on observing the movements of the sun, moon, and stars to establish their calendars? It wasn’t until the era of the Five Emperors and the Three Dynasties that this practice was both inherited and further developed: internally represented by the crown and attire, and externally distinguished from the barbarian tribes, establishing a clear division between the two. The central plains were divided into twelve regions, with the observation of celestial constellations above and the imitation of terrestrial phenomena below. Thus, the ancient understanding emerged that the sun and moon were celestial entities, and on Earth, there were the complementary forces of Yin and Yang. The five planets had their cycles, mirroring the five elements on Earth. The constellations in the sky corresponded to the administrative regions on Earth, with each matching one another.
Before the reign of King You and King Li of the Zhou dynasty, the observations of celestial phenomena were distant in time. The omens predicted through star patterns differed from one state to another, with each state using different auspices aligned with current affairs. Therefore, the recorded omens in ancient texts are not reliable as laws. Confucius, in his discussions of the Six Classics, noted omens but did not dwell on their theories or applications in his teachings. The ancient knowledge of celestial phenomena was passed on only to those with the wisdom to understand them, and thus, only certain individuals could grasp the principles of heaven and earth without needing explicit instruction.
Historical figures who were known for interpreting the celestial calendar include: before the High Emperor, there was Chong He Li; during the Tang and Yu periods, figures like Xi Shi and He Shi; during the Xia dynasty, Kun Wu; during the Yin and Shang periods, Wu Xian; during the Zhou dynasty, Shi Yi and Chang Hong; during the states period, figures like Zhi Wei of Song, Bi Zao of Zheng, Gan Gong of Qi, Tang Mei of Chu, Yin Gao of Zhao, and Shi Shen of Wei.
The movement of celestial bodies has cycles: a minor change occurs every 30 years, a moderate one every 100 years, and a major one every 500 years. Every three major changes form one era, with all variations passing through three cycles. This cyclical pattern underlies the governance of a state, with rulers paying special attention to the numbers three and five, reflecting this cosmic rhythm. It takes a thousand years for the relationship between heaven and man to be perfected.
The Grand Historian further explored the changes in celestial phenomena of the ancient world, yet found no contemporary records to verify them. Looking at the historical period between the Spring and Autumn Annals, there were thirty-six solar eclipses, three comet appearances, and one meteor shower in the time of Duke Xiang of Song. These celestial events were often interpreted differently depending on the political situation of the time. Following these omens, the powerful states grew stronger, often through the domination of weaker states. During the Warring States period, this led to widespread conflict and the annexation of smaller states, with the ruling class increasingly relying on celestial omens to predict good or bad fortune.
Divination, in its ancient form, was based on the position of celestial bodies, particularly the 28 constellations and the Big Dipper. Each state’s fortune could be foreseen by observing specific stars, such as the brightness of Venus, the tail of the comet, or the position of the moon.
The regions of China were considered to align with the sun, year, Venus, and certain constellations to predict the well-being of the empire. In contrast, the borderlands in the northwest were linked to the moon and other stars associated with the barbarians. The diviners of the time utilized these celestial cues to gauge the health and stability of the empire.
The rule of the Qin dynasty, for example, saw frequent appearances of comets, which foretold the unification of China and the eventual rise of Qin power. Yet, with the destruction of the Six States, the Qin empire ultimately collapsed due to internal strife. Even during the Han dynasty, celestial phenomena like the gathering of the five planets in the eastern constellations were interpreted as an omen for imperial success.
In the spring, suitable government decrees would allow the Eastern Emperor to extend his influence, opening the gates of heaven for the three bright stars to pass through. In the summer, the Southern Emperor would ensure prosperity, and in the autumn, the Western Emperor would influence the changes. These principles would guide the emperor’s actions, such as amnesty, based on celestial observations.
Phoenix Lee https://chinese-tradition.com/shiji-eight-books-book-of-heavenly-officials.html