The first saying is that Jingxing resembles a half moon, appearing around the first and fifteenth days of the lunar month, and it can help the moon become brighter. Others say that this star is quite large and has a hollow center. Another saying is that it is made up of three stars, located within the red star energy, connected to the blue star energy. Among them, the yellow star is in the red star energy, also called the De star.
The second saying is that Zhou Bo is bright yellow and sparkles; whichever country sees it will prosper and develop.
The third saying is that the Hanyu star shines brilliantly, like a comet; its appearance and glow signify that good fortune is on the way.
In the first situation, stars are seen during the day. If the stars and the sun appear simultaneously, this phenomenon is referred to as "marrying off a daughter." When the stars and the sun compete for brightness, military power weakens, and civil governance strengthens; women hold power, resulting in funerals in the cities and battles in the countryside. Another saying suggests that if ministers are treacherous and the monarch is unwise, collusion among the ministers will lead to flooding. Another saying is that if stars are seen during the day and rainbows do not disappear, the ministers are all upright, and if the stars overshadow the sun, a new monarch will soon emerge in the world.
In the second situation, the stars are not visible. The stars represent the reigning monarch. If the stars are not visible, it symbolizes the betrayal of the feudal lords, who do not assist the monarch and do not abide by the laws, indicating a lack of a ruler. Another saying is that if the stars are not visible, it indicates that the monarch is not strict and that the laws are lax. Another saying is that if the emperor loses governance, the feudal lords will act tyrannically. Another saying is that if both the stars and the constellations are not visible, it symbolizes the decline and fall of the feudal lords in the Central Plains.
In the third situation, the falling stars signify great chaos in the world. In the fourth situation, the shaking stars indicate that the people will suffer hardships. In the fifth situation, the stars are falling. When large stars fall, the sun loses its place, which is the seed of disaster. There is another saying that when many stars fall, people will lose their positions. Wherever stars fall, the country will change dynasties. There is also a saying that where stars fall, there will be battlefields and chaos in the world, lasting for three years. Another saying states that rapidly falling stars indicate war below, and where stars fall, families and nations will perish; when many stars fall, the people will die. There is another saying that when the filling stars fall, the sea will flood, and when the yellow stars fall, it will surge. Some say that if the "Ma Ben" star falls, the Bo Hai will breach its banks. As stars fall like rain, the emperor weakens, the feudal lords seize power, five feudal lords take turns to dominate, forming alliances, strong nations swallow weak nations, and large countries annex small countries. There is another saying that when the stars leave the sky, it is like the people abandoning the king. When the king loses virtue and the moral order collapses, the people will rebel and depart. Thus, the falling stars signify this omen. When the country faces war and disaster, the stars will fall like birds and beasts. When the world is about to perish, the stars will fall like flying insects. When large-scale wars occur, the stars will fall like gold and iron. When there is great flooding, the stars will fall like soil. When the ruler loses the country and war breaks out, the stars will fall like grass and trees. When war erupts and the ruler loses the country, the stars will fall like sand. If falling stars metaphorically represent people, then fortune and misfortune will be as they say. There is another saying that when the country experiences a major funeral, the stars will fall like dragons.
Speaking of this ominous star, it is actually the energy of the five elements, a phenomenon arising from the movements of the five stars. By observing in which direction it appears, one can predict where disaster will strike. Based on its appearance date and color, one can determine which countries will face misfortune and which will thrive. If it appears in a country with moral decay or the breakdown of social customs, it is a clear warning of wars, famines, droughts, floods, and epidemics. There's a saying that no matter the shape of the ominous star, the disasters it brings are always severe. It typically appears for no more than a year, but if it lasts for three years, a country will definitely perish, and cities will be massacred. The monarch dies, chaos reigns, soldiers roam everywhere, dying in battle, and bodies pile up like mountains. The disasters are not over yet, as water shortages, wars, famines, and epidemics will follow. Additionally, when the ominous star appears, the larger the disaster, the more severe it is, and the smaller the disaster, the more minor it is, and the shorter the time. If it measures three to five feet long, the disaster lasts for a hundred days; if it is five to ten feet long, it lasts for a year; if it is ten to thirty feet long, it lasts for three years; if it is thirty to fifty feet long, it lasts for five years; if it is fifty to one hundred feet long, it lasts for seven years; if it is over one hundred feet long, it lasts for nine years. Upon careful observation, these prophecies all come true.
Next, let's talk about comets, commonly known as broom stars. They are similar to stars but have tails like brooms, with some being only a few inches long while others can span the sky. When comets appear, they herald the outbreak of wars and floods, like a broom that sweeps away the old and brings in the new. Comets come in five colors, each corresponding to the five elements and representing different disasters. Historical records indicate that comets do not emit their own light but shine by reflecting sunlight, so when seen in the evening, their tails point east; when seen in the morning, their tails point west; and on either side of the sun, their direction changes with the sunlight. The light of comets flickers and varies in length, foreshadowing disasters wherever it shines.
Finally, let's talk about the bo star, which is a type of comet. A comet with a tail leaning to one side is called a "comet," while one that radiates light in all directions is referred to as a "bo star." The bo star, being extremely fierce, is a phenomenon caused by evil energy. Even without major turmoil within the country, there may still be foreign wars, with countries conspiring and plotting against each other in secret, inevitably causing harm. Yanzi once said, "If the king does not repent, the bo star will appear, so why fear the comet?" It can be seen that the disasters brought by the bo star are more serious than those brought by the comet.
Speaking of the sky, there is a type of star that is the essence of the year star transformed, with many names such as Tianbao, Tianqiang, Tianhua, Tianchong, Guohuang, and Fandeng, each more domineering than the next. Let's start with Tianbao, which looks like a star with a sharp point, measuring four zhang long! When this star appears, it signals impending trouble for the country, and no actions should be taken—especially not warfare! Some say that three months after it appears, an army will definitely be defeated and cities will be breached. Others say that when Tianbao appears, it signifies a shift in power dynamics towards women, but this star is primarily associated with the fate of rulers.
Next is Tianqiang, which is specifically for capturing bad people. Some say it looks like a cow with clouds surrounding it; others say it looks like a horse with clouds surrounding it. Some say it looks like a long spear, sharp on both sides and several zhang long! Tianchan is similar to it, also sharp and one zhang long. Then there is Tianhua, a star associated with impending chaos. The appearance of this star heralds trouble ahead. Some people say that if the ruler acts irresponsibly, defies the will of heaven, and oppresses the people, then this Tianhua star should appear.
Let's talk about the Tianchong star. It resembles a person, dressed in green, with a red head, standing still. The appearance of this star signifies a dismissal from office. Another saying suggests that when the Tianchong star appears, officials may rebel and the army may revolt. Another belief states that the Tianchong star appears, clutching the North Star, weeping and rushing to the Heavenly Emperor, with blood and mist enveloping the world, filled with grievances! Next is the Guohuang star; some say it is formed after the dispersal of the Ji star. This Guohuang star is large and red, resembling the South Pole Old Man star. Its appearance signals the need to eliminate corrupt officials and quell internal strife. Its appearance signifies war and chaos in the world! It is said to hover just one or two zhang above the ground, resembling a torch. (By the way, there is also a Guohuang star among the guest stars, with the same name, but different omens.)
Finally, there is the Fandeng star. The appearance of this star indicates division, pertaining to the essence of Shaoyang, falling within the category of the Sutu star in the area of the Azure Dragon Seven Mansions. If someone rebels, acts tyrannically, or disregards springtime laws, this star will appear, indicating that the king will mobilize troops for conquest. In short, the appearance of these stars is significant for the king.
Speaking of the Yinghuo star, its essence manifests in various star signs, such as Xidan, Chiyouqi, Zhaoming, Siwei, and Tianchan.
First, let’s discuss Xidan, also referred to as Zhaodan. Its appearance is said to herald a decline in the nation. Another belief holds that when Xidan appears horizontally, resembling a boat oar, it foretells the prime minister's assassination.
As for the Chi You flag, some people say it is formed by the scattering of stars, while others say it is produced by the movements of the five stars. It resembles a comet, yet it curves like a flag. There is also a belief that when the sky is clear for miles and suddenly a red cloud appears, that's the Chi You flag; or that the Chi You flag is like a scoop, about two zhang long, with a star at the end; some say that when the country is in chaos and evil gathers, clouds of yellow and white like tall bamboo forests will appear in the sky, that's the Chi You flag, signaling the impending downfall of the rebellious state; there is also a belief that when the emperor is about to lose his temper, the Chi You flag will appear; or when a tyrant plans to revolt, the Chi You flag will also appear; some people say that it originally looked like a star, but later it curved into a flag shape, two or three zhang long. Its appearance signals that the king is gearing up for battle, with battles erupting everywhere, or the country is on the brink of a major disaster.
Next is Zhaoming, which is the result of the transformation of five stars in the west, which is said to embody the essence of gold. Some also say that Zhaoming is formed when a red comet splits. If Zhaoming's light disappears and it takes the shape of Venus with seven rays of light, it indicates the rise of a ruler. Others say that Zhaoming is formed by the scattering of the Jixing star; another theory is that a star appears in the west, approximately six zhang above the ground, shining brightly and appearing red, resembling Venus but constantly moving, known as the wild star of the west, which is Zhaoming. Its appearance signifies the outbreak of war, and wherever it appears, funerals will follow. If it appears in the south, western countries will lose land. Some say Zhaoming resembles Venus but does not move, signifying the rise of virtuous leaders; another theory is that a large, white star with points appears in the west, seen from below; this is Zhaoming, the essence of gold, and its appearance signifies the outbreak of war. If it lingers in the heart of the constellation, the nation will experience mourning, and even a massacre of its people. When Zhaoming descends, it transforms into a celestial dog, and where it descends, large-scale wars will erupt, resulting in rivers of blood.
Then there is the Star of Danger. Some say it is formed from the dispersal of the Star of Machinery, while others say it is the result of gas changes in a white comet. The Star of Danger travels smoothly, indicating that there are numerous internal conflicts within the country. Some also say that the Star of Danger is large, has a hairy appearance and two horns; others say it resembles the Venus Star, often moving and appearing red upon closer inspection. When the Star of Danger appears, powerful nations will prosper, signaling an attack on strong vassals. Others claim that the appearance of the Star of Danger signifies that the ruler has lost his moral standing, and eight years later, heroes and notable figures will rise in rebellion, causing the emperor to lose his realm due to injustice, with only those esteemed ministers able to inherit the throne. Another view is that when the Star of Danger appears, the nations beneath will slaughter each other; some say that when the Star of Danger appears in the due west, it is a rogue star from the west, about six zhang above the ground, large and white, resembling the Venus Star. Some say its appearance signifies the outbreak of war and the rise of strong nations; others say the appearance of the Star of Danger is not a good omen, indicating that war will erupt below, and it will be highly unfavorable.
Finally, there is the Star of Heavenly Disturbance. It is white and small, often moving, called the Disturbance Star or the Decapitation Star, foretelling slaughter and punishment. Some say that when the Star of Heavenly Disturbance appears, women will hold power, but ultimately, it is still men who will have the final say. Another view is that when the Star of Heavenly Disturbance appears, there will be mutual slaughter below, leading to war and famine, with desolate lands and piles of white bones. Some say that when the Star of Heavenly Disturbance appears, the country will experience civil unrest; another view is that the Star of Heavenly Disturbance represents the essence of the sun, appearing in the region of the Seven Lodges of the Vermilion Bird, signaling rebellion and tyranny, causing the country to lose its normal order.
Ancient astrologers believed that certain celestial phenomena foretold disasters on earth. They named these phenomena as follows: "Five Remnants," "Six Thieves," "Prisoner Han," "Great Ben," "Shining Star," "Flowing Star," "Fading Star," "Cycle Start," and "Striking Misfortune," totaling nine types.
First is the "Five Remnants." Some say it is formed by the scattering of a comet or a celestial body, signifying the destruction and downfall of the nation. Some say it splits into five parts, while others say it is a main trunk with five branches. It is said that nine years after its appearance, treachery will arise; twenty-seven years later, the world will descend into chaos and be beyond control. Another theory believes that the "Five Remnants" are generated by changes in the five elements, originating from the east, representing the wood element. Some also refer to it as the "Five Cracks," appearing in the due east, resembling a celestial body, six or seven zhang above the ground, large and white, foretelling disaster and death. Others describe it as a star appearing in the east, about six zhang above the ground, large and red, upon closer inspection revealing a bluish hue; or, that this star has a bluish halo surrounding it, resembling fur, shaped like the Year Star, which is what the east refers to as the "Five Remnants." Its appearance signifies large-scale warfare, and where it appears, there will be funerals below; if it appears in the north, the eastern nations will lose territory. Additionally, there is a belief that if the "Five Remnants" appear, the four barbarian tribes will be weakened, and the emperor will face urgent warfare. The "Five Remnants" star is large and red, often moving, and upon careful observation, one will find it has a bluish interior; its appearance heralds the outbreak of war.
Next is the "Six Thieves." It represents the essence of the five elements, originating from the south. Some say it embodies the energy of fire, while others describe it as resembling a comet. Another description states that a star appears in the south, six zhang above the ground, red, often moving, and upon careful observation, it has light, shaped like a comet, which is what the south refers to as the "Six Thieves." Its appearance signifies war and national turmoil, and where it appears, there will be funerals below; if it appears in the east, the southern nations will lose territory. Some also say that the "Six Thieves" star appears directly in the south, six zhang above the ground, large and red, often moving, and shining with a bright light.
Then there are the "Yuhans," also known as "Xianhans." Some say they are formed by the dispersal of the star of power, while others claim they originate from the northern five elements and represent the essence of the water element. The "Yuhans" star is blue tinged with red, and below it are three comets traversing horizontally, signaling that the king is under threat of being hunted or assassinated. Another interpretation suggests that a star appears in the north, six zhang above the earth, large and red, constantly shifting; upon closer inspection, it reveals a dark blue-black hue and resembles the Chen star, which is what is referred to as "Xianhans" in the north. Its appearance signifies war, and funerals will occur beneath its appearance; if it appears in the west, countries in the north will lose territory. Some say that when the "Yuhans" star moves, feudal lords will be thrown into panic, and its appearance heralds treacherous events.
The "Dabin" star foreshadows riots and upheavals; the "Zhaoxing" star portends the downfall of the state; the "Chuliu" star signifies chaos in the realm, with rulers fleeing or meeting their demise; some even claim it foretells inevitable self-destruction.
The "Xun Shi" star appears in the southeast. Originally a normal star, it has an ending resembling the character "Xun," and any country it illuminates will face disasters. The "Xun Shi" star, some say, is formed from the dispersal of the principal stars, others believe it represents the waxing and waning of the five stars, or it represents demonic energy, or even Chi You. Another theory is that it appears next to the Big Dipper, shaped like a rooster, dark blue in color, resembling a crouching turtle. Others believe it is formed from the fragmentation of a yellow comet. "Xun Shi" signifies a new beginning, shaped like a rooster, containing yang in the earth, connected to white, with a spirit like a rooster, hence used as the theme for establishing dominance. Legend has it that ten years after its appearance, a sage will rise and replace the old dynasty. It also predicts war, turmoil, and calamity. If it appears, kings will inevitably be overthrown, treachery will prevail, corpses will litter the fields, and even instances of cannibalism may occur. Its appearance signifies rebellion among subjects, armies rising, and lords becoming tyrants. Another theory states that on the day of Wuxu, one should observe the Five Chariots star, the Heavenly Army, and the Heavenly Treasury; if strange phenomena are observed, this signifies "Xun Shi." When it appears, shaped like a bird with a beak, a large-scale war will break out, and those who attack it will die in battle. However, some believe that if it appears near the Big Dipper, a sage will be appointed, the emperor will have a long life, and the ruler will be favored. Finally, the "Ji Jiu" star signifies the seizing of power by subjects, or subjects rebelling, triggering a large-scale war. Some believe it embodies the essence of the earth, located within the region of the Big Dipper's seven stars, governing the four directions and holding the position of the Grand Preceptor. If someone plots rebellion, this star phenomenon will appear. Legend has it that the essence of the Tai Bai Jin Xing in the sky scattered into eight distinct star phenomena: Tian Chu, Tian Chu, Fu Ling, Da Bai, Si Jian, Tian Gou, Tian Can, and Zu Qi.
First is the Heavenly Chisel, which governs the spread of plague, causing entire flocks of sheep to die. Next is the Heavenly Pole, which presides over the onset of disasters. Then there is the Spirit of Deceit, a star that oversees the spread of slander; once the Spirit of Deceit appears, chaos will ensue, and the common people will suffer. The Star of Great Defeat governs wars and conflicts; it is said that when the Star of Great Defeat appears, conspiracies will be revealed, and wars will break out. The Star of Malice is responsible for manifesting evil spirits.
Next is the Heavenly Dog Star, which is subject to many interpretations. One interpretation suggests that it is formed by the convergence of five stars, appearing in the southwest, resulting from the conjunction of Venus and Mars. Another interpretation describes the Heavenly Dog Star as hairy, accompanied by short comets, resembling a dog overall; its appearance signals the drafting of soldiers and the crackdown on rebels. Yet another interpretation states that the sighting of the Heavenly Dog Star signifies that five generals are set to clash. Some say the Heavenly Dog Star is located in the northwest, spanning three zhang, formed by the conjunction of Mercury and Venus. Another interpretation claims that there are three large and bright stars in the northwest, which is the Heavenly Dog Star. The sighting of the Heavenly Dog Star foreshadows a major war, famine across the land, and even the horrors of cannibalism. It is said that wherever the Heavenly Dog Star lands, fierce battles will erupt, armies will be defeated, generals will be killed, bodies will cover the ground, and blood will flow like rivers, with the Heavenly Dog Star devouring the flesh and blood. The timing of these disasters varies; some occur within a year, some within two years, and others may not happen until three years later. The exact timing and significance must be assessed based on the country where the Heavenly Dog Star lands. (Though the Heavenly Dog Star referred to in meteors bears the same name, its omens vary somewhat.)
The Star of Tian Can governs greed and cruelty. The last is the Star of Zuqi, its appearance heralds the imminent arrival of calamity, various signs of disaster are already evident, and the ministers are on the verge of seizing power. Another interpretation is that the Star of Zuqi represents the essence of the Lesser Yin, similar to the celestial patterns associated with the Grand Marshal, located in the region of the White Beast Seven Mansions. Its appearance indicates that a rebellion is about to occur, tyranny will prevail, leading to mistakes in autumn governance. The timing of its occurrence and the disasters it brings are similar to the divination results mentioned earlier.
Legend has it that the essence of the Star of Chen divided into seven star patterns: Wang Shi, Po Nu, Fu Shu, Mie Bao, Rao Ting, Jing Li, and Da Fen Si. First, let’s discuss the Wang Shi star. Some say it originates from changes in the filling stars; some say it is formed by the scattered stars of the machine star; and some say it is generated by the fluctuations in the five stars, resembling a bow. It looks like a huge meteor, grey-black in color, moving like a snake; from a distance, it appears to have hair and eyes, several lengths of fabric long, brightly hanging in the sky. Its appearance heralds rebellion, and foolish people will be shot. Others claim it is formed from the fragmentation of a black comet, because "Wang Shi" means shooting arrows. When the Wang Shi star appears, it means that the army of rebellion is gathering, and the person shot could also be killed by the chaotic forces. It is also said that a tyrannical monarch will bring forth the Wang Shi star. Another saying is that the Wang Shi star, like a shooting star, appears with a tail and resembles having eyes, about a meter long, brightly hanging in the sky. Its appearance signifies a large-scale war outbreak, with generals going to war, and a large number of bows and arrows being used; this war will last for three years. In short, wherever the Wang Shi star touches, it will be punished, indicating punishment through shooting and elimination.
Next is the Broken Maiden Star. If the Broken Maiden Star appears, both the ruler and his ministers will be executed, foretelling victory. The Reversal Star's appearance signifies turmoil, with the world thrown into chaos. However, some say that the Reversal Star governs the changing of the seasons. The Destroyed Treasure Star's appearance indicates mutual attacks. Others say it foreshadows the outbreak of war. The Surrounding Court Star suggests the rise of rebellion. The Startling Principle Star indicates the ousting of ministers. The Great Sacrifice Star suggests the onset of disaster. However, some believe that the appearance of the Great Sacrifice Star actually signifies peace. If the essence of the Moon, specifically in the area of the Black Tortoise's Seven Mansions, shows signs of rebellion or cruelty leading to disasters, leading to governance failures in winter, then the consequences will be as those indicated by the star omens mentioned above, and disasters will come to pass. There is also a saying that these five types of essences are hidden in deep pools, corresponding in opposite ways to the offenses committed; erratic behavior and subordinates who imitate will be preyed upon by opportunists, all signs of destruction. If these star omens enter the emperor's star constellation, it signifies demise; if they appear in the constellations of the feudal lords, it foretells five hundred conspiracies.
There are also two types of star omens in the sky: one is the Heavenly Edge Star, resembling a comet's spearhead, which signifies the outbreak of war. When war occurs in the world, the Heavenly Edge Star will appear. The second is the Candle Star, which looks like the Morning Star, but once it appears, it remains stationary and soon vanishes. Some believe that three comets will appear simultaneously near the main star. Where the Candle Star appears, that city will face rebellion. Others say that where the Candle Star shines, the city will be in turmoil. There is also a saying that where the Candle Star appears, great thieves will emerge, but they will ultimately not succeed.
Speaking of the celestial phenomena, various kinds are recorded in the texts.
First, we have the Pengxing, also known as the Wangxing. This star resembles a fire in the night sky; sometimes you can see four or five, and sometimes just one or two. Some say it appears in the southwest, several Zhang in length, sharp on both sides, and is prone to shifting position after it appears. Others say that the Pengxing is yellow and white, about three feet square. In addition, some say that the Pengxing looks like a cluster of cotton, and when it appears, the Taoists and sorcerers in the world will come out, and ordinary folks can also rise to prosperity; the world will be peaceful, and the crops will be abundant. However, another belief is that if the Pengxing comes out from the Big Dipper, the princes will fight for territory, the countries that lose territory will perish, and wars will break out. Results will follow within three years after this star appears. Another saying is that if the Pengxing comes out from Taiweiyuan (the palace of the Emperor of Heaven), a new king will be established. The name "Pengxing" has so many different interpretations!
Next up is the Changgeng Star, which resembles a piece of cloth draped across the sky. When this star appears, a war is expected to break out.
Then there is the Siting Star, that shows up in the four corners of the sky, six Zhang away from the ground; some say four Zhang, and some say it is big and red, two Zhang away from the ground, usually appearing in the middle of the night. A war is expected to break out within ten months after the Siting Star appears. Another saying is that if the Siting Star appears in all four corners, there will be wars in all four places.
Next, let's talk about the Diweizangguang Star. This star is the result of the changes in the qi of the five elements, stemming from the qi of the four seasons. Some say that this star is very big and red, two to three Zhang away from the ground, like the moon. It’s referred to as Diweizangguang when it first appears. When it appears in the four corners outside the central area, it’s called Diweizangguang. If it appears in the northeast corner, a great flood will sweep across the land; if it appears in the southeast corner, there will be a great drought; if it appears in the southwest corner, there will be a war; if it appears in the northwest corner, chaos will reign, and wars will erupt. Another belief holds that when the Diweizangguang Star shows up, the evildoers will perish, and the virtuous people will prosper and develop.
Next is the Nübo Star. The Nübo Star is produced by the mixed changes of the five planetary energies and appears in the northeast direction, where water and wood energies converge. Some say that when a star approximately three zhang long appears in the northeast, it is called the Nübo Star, and when this star appears, there will be wars in the world or major funerals. Another interpretation states that when a large star appears in the northeast, it is called the Nübo Star, and its appearance will lead to major funerals in the world.
Then there is the Thief Star. The Thief Star is also produced by the mixed changes of the five planetary energies and appears in the southeast direction, where fire and wood energies converge. Some say that when a star approximately three zhang long appears in the southeast, it is called the Thief Star, and its appearance will lead to many thieves and rampant banditry in the world.
Finally, there is the Jiling Star. The Jiling Star is also produced by the mixed changes of the five planetary energies and appears in the northwest direction, where metal and water energies converge. Some say that when a star approximately three zhang long appears in the southwest, it is called the Jiling Star, and its appearance will bring frost, wars, poor harvests, and hunger among the populace.
The tenth star is called the Duan Star (端星). The Duan Star is produced by the convergence of the energies of the five stars, and it will appear where the energies of metal, wood, water, and fire converge at the four corners. In these corners, there will also be a large red star; upon close observation, the center of the star is yellow and it moves, measuring about four zhang in length. This is the manifestation of earth energy throughout the seasons, called the Suyuan Duan Star, and when it appears, there will be great wars.
The eleventh star is called the Hunchang Star (昏昌星). In the northwest direction, a star will appear surrounded by blue and red auras, with red in the center and blue on the outside; this star is called the Hunchang Star. Its appearance signifies that wars will occur in the world and the government will change. Those who rise up first will prosper, while those who rise up later will perish. If this star is ten zhang high, the world will be in chaos for one year; if it is twenty zhang high, the chaos will last for two years; if it is thirty zhang high, the chaos will last for three years.
The twelfth star is called the Xin Star (莘星). In the northwest direction, a star will appear shaped like it has two rings around it, and it is named Shanquan. When this star appears, the lords will lose their lands, especially in the northwest countries.
The thirteenth star is called the White Star. It looks like a star but not a star, shaped like a sliced melon, indicating victory in battle, hence the name White Star. When the White Star appears, it brings about the death of males.
The fourteenth star is called Tuchang. The Tuchang star in the northwest is surrounded by red and blue gas, indicating disaster, with the blue representing water. When this star appears, there will be great changes in the world.
The fifteenth star is called Geze, shaped like a burning flame. Some say that the Geze star is yellow on top and white on the bottom, rising from below, broad at the bottom and sharp at the top, indicating a bountiful harvest without the need for cultivation. Others say that if there is no civil engineering, a powerful neighboring country will come to visit in about a year or two. Another interpretation is that the gas of the Geze star is like a burning red fire in the sky, with the same color above and below, stretching east to west across the sky, as if extending in the north-south direction, with a length of about four or five li. This is the change of the Mars star, and its appearance will lead to war, with corpses covering the ground and blood flowing like a river, lasting for three years.
The sixteenth star is called Gui Xie, shaped like a star but not a star, like a cloud but not a cloud. Some say it has two red comets flying upwards, with a gas-like cover on top and stars connected below. Others say that its appearance foretells that a country will submit.
The seventeenth star is called Meng Xing, with red gas appearing at night, like military banners, varying in length and fluttering in all directions, mostly in the southwest. Some refer to it as the Knife Star, a sign of great chaos in the world. Some say that the sky is covered with thin clouds, with red and yellow gas appearing in all directions, three feet long, appearing and disappearing quickly. Others say that when the Knife Star appears, war will break out in the world, with battles and bloodshed everywhere. Another interpretation is that the sky is covered with thin clouds, with a total of eight strands of gas, pale in color, three feet long, appearing and disappearing rapidly.
In the "Book of Wind and Horns" written by Jing Fang of the Han Dynasty, there is a section called "Collection of Star Chapters," which records that the anomalous stars appear next to the moon, accompanied by colorful square clouds, on the Five Yin days, which correspond to the clouds associated with the five planets. The Tianqiang star is found in the Ji constellation, the Tiangen star in the Zhi constellation, the Tianjing star in the Xin constellation, the Zhenruo star in the Fang constellation, the Tianyuan star in the Di constellation, the Tianlou star in the Kang constellation, and the Tianyuan star in the Zuo Jiao constellation; all these stars are associated with the Year Star (Jupiter). On the day of Jia Yin, two green squares will appear next to these stars.
The Tianyin star is found in the Zhen constellation, the Jinruo star in the Yi constellation, the Guanzhang star in the Zhang constellation, the Tianhuo star in the Qi constellation, the Tianque star in the Liu constellation, the Chi Ruo star in the Gui constellation, and the Chiyou star in the Jing constellation; all these stars are associated with the Yinghuo (Mars). They appear on the day of Bing Yin, with two red squares appearing next to them.
The Tian Shang star, Tian Fa star, Cong star, Tian Shu star, Tian Zhai star, Tian Fei star, and Jing Hui star are all associated with the Zhen star (Saturn). They appear on the day of Wu Yin, with two yellow squares appearing next to them.
The Ruo star is found in the Shen constellation, the Zhuo star in the Zi constellation, the Ruo star in the Bi constellation, the Zhu star in the Mao constellation, the Qiang star in the Wei constellation, the Ling star in the Lou constellation, and the Bai Jiao star in the Kui constellation; all these stars are associated with the Taibai star (Venus). They appear on the day of Geng Yin, with two white squares appearing next to them.
The Tian Mei star is found in the Bi constellation, the Tian Zhang star in the Shi constellation, the Tian Du star in the Wei constellation, the Tian Ma star in the Xu constellation, the Tian Lin star in the Nu constellation, the Tian Gao star in the Niu constellation, and the Duan Xia star in the Dou constellation; all these stars are associated with the Chen star (Mercury). They appear on the day of Ren Yin, with two black squares appearing next to them.
The thirty-five stars mentioned earlier are all formed from the energies of the five elements, and they all appear in positions flanking the moon. They will manifest in the days leading up to their emergence. If they are seen by people before they officially appear, it signifies that misfortune is imminent, including floods, droughts, wars, death, famines, unrest, and even the potential downfall of a nation, the loss of territory, the death of a king, the defeat of an army, and the assassination of a general. In this context, ancient astronomers collectively referred to the five stars—Zhou Bo, Laozi, Wang Pengxu, Guohuang, and Wenxing—as "guest stars." These guest stars are said to roam the heavens, with each star corresponding to a specific region of twelve nations. By analyzing their positions and movements, one can predict fortunes, both good and ill.
Zhou Boxing Star is massive, yellowish, and shines brightly. If it shows up in the sky of any country, that country will go to war, or face a funeral; a nationwide famine will ensue, and common folks will have to pack up and leave. It’s kind of like those lucky stars, but the omen is completely opposite. Laozi Star is big and bright, white in color, and looks very gentle. Where it appears, there'll either be famine or all sorts of disasters, sometimes good, sometimes bad; sometimes happy, sometimes angry; in short, it’s just chaos. If Laozi Star frequently appears, it indicates that a large-scale war is about to happen, and the ruler will be quite anxious. However, if the ruler orders a general amnesty, disasters might be averted. Wang Pengxu Star looks like a puff of cotton, gently floating. Where it appears, there’ll be wars, deaths, or lots of folks dressed in white; in short, it signifies the downfall of the nation and families. Some say Wang Pengxu Star is green and sparkles. Where it appears, the weather will go haywire, droughts will occur, crops will fail, and locusts will ravage the land. Guohuang Star appears large, yellowish-white and horn-like. Its appearance means war and national instability, and possibly floods or famine, which will stress the ruler out and make common folks sick. Wen Star is big and white, floating around like the wind, often spotted in the four corners of the sky. If it shows up in the southeast, war is coming, and a general will emerge from the ranks. If it pops up in the northeast, expect a massive war that’ll spread for miles. The same deal goes for the northwest. If it appears in the southwest, that country will go to war, there will be deaths, and possibly floods and famine will occur. Another interpretation is that if Wen Star appears in the southeast, it represents that the great general is suppressed and unable to exert influence; if it appears in the northeast, bodies will pile up for a thousand miles; if it appears in the west, it’s the same deal.
In short, wherever a comet appears, if it stays in one place, you can predict its auspiciousness by its color. The bigger the event, the smaller the event. A yellow star signifies good fortune, a white star signals funerals, a blue star indicates worries, a black star represents death, and a red star points to war. In general, predictions based on these five colors typically last no longer than three years. Another belief is that if a comet enters the official area of a constellation, the nature of the events can be determined by its position and the name of the constellation. The location it travels to indicates where the event will take place; the countries associated with that area will face disasters. The timing of events can be inferred from the constellation it occupies, and the interactions between the five elements can trigger these events.
Ah, shooting stars are actually angels! When they fall from the sky, we call it "falling," and when they fly up from below, we call it "flying." Particularly large shooting stars, we call them "rushing," which is another kind of shooting star. The size of a shooting star depends on the significance of the matter it represents. A rumbling sound means someone is angry. The faster it moves, the quicker things go; the slower it moves, the slower things go. A large, dim shooting star represents the issues of everyday folks; a small, bright one represents the matters of the powerful; a large and bright one represents the concerns of influential and well-liked people! A flickering one suggests that bad people have failed. A shooting star that's big at the front and small at the back hints at fear and worry; one that is small in the front and large in the back signifies that good things are coming! A shooting star that twists forward like a snake symbolizes deceit. A shooting star that moves very quickly means something that’s gone for good. A long shooting star means that matters will last a long time; a short one means that things will end quickly. Where a shooting star lands, wars are likely to break out. If the weather stays calm, and a shooting star suddenly appears, lingering for a long time before disappearing, then a strong wind is on the way, houses might collapse, and trees could be blown over. If lots of little shooting stars start zooming around, it means everyday folks will need to relocate. Shooting stars come in all sorts of shapes, and the results of divination vary too; these insights come from ancient texts and "Jingzhou Divination."
The tail of a meteor can be two to three zhang in length, glistening and illuminating the sky. A white meteor represents a messenger; a red meteor represents a general's messenger. Meteors shine with a yellow-white color, falling from the sky and making a sound like a torch hitting the ground, making the wild chickens squawk. That's a blessing from above! Where a meteor falls, the country will enjoy peace, but floods may follow. A blue-red meteor, called "earth goose," signals that rebellion is brewing where it lands. A blue-red meteor, also two to three zhang long, known as "sky goose," is a symbol of elite troops. When a country sees this type of meteor, it signals that war is on the horizon, and both the commander and troops must follow its path. In summary, a meteor the size of a water tank means rebellion is on the way; one the size of a peach suggests someone is being sent on a mission. If a meteor as large as a large pottery jar, dark red and shaped like a bird's beak, falls, it signifies that war will break out there, and the ruler may lose territory.
Legend has it that a flying star appeared in the sky, about the size of a large pottery jar or water urn, radiating a bright white light from behind, with its front lower and back higher, known as "Dun Wan." Where this star appears, many people often meet their demise, and cities may fall without a fight. Another flying star appears, similar in size to a large pottery jar or water urn, radiating a bright white light from behind, with its front lower and back higher, swaying and moving up and down, called "Jiang Shi." Where this star appears, the people will suffer from hunger. There is also another flying star, the same size as the first two, radiating a bright white light from behind, but after the starlight disappears, the white light will curve and encircle like a wheel, called "Jie Xian." After this star appears, the people of the country will kill each other to compete for titles and salaries. There is also another flying star, the same size as a large pottery jar or water urn, radiating a bright white light from behind, measuring several feet in length, and after the starlight disappears, the white light will turn into clouds and fall down, called "Da Hua," where rivers of blood will flow and corpses will pile up. There is also another flying star, the same size as a large pottery jar or water urn, radiating a bright white light from behind, trailing long and winding, with a length of over ten feet, called "Tian Xing," or "Tian Shi." When this star appears, generals will be grant
Next, let's talk about the “heavenly dog.” It looks like a fast-flying star, yellow in color, and it makes a sound. Where it lands, it takes on a dog-like appearance, and from afar, the spot where it falls resembles a blazing fire, burning fiercely and soaring into the sky. It has a pointed top and a rounded bottom, roughly the size of several acres of land. Some say this star appears to have fur, accompanied by small comets, and has the shape of a dog underneath. Others say that when the star appears, it appears red and white, shimmering brightly, and after landing, it transforms into the “heavenly dog.” There is also a belief that meteors emit light, allowing one to see a human face, and when they fall, they make no sound, almost as if they have legs; this is also referred to as the “heavenly dog.” Its color is white with a yellow interior, resembling embers. The appearance of the “heavenly dog” signifies war and the punishment of rebels; after it appears, armies will attack each other from all directions, and there will be defeats within a thousand miles, with generals being killed. Some believe that five stars battle and consume each other, and wherever it appears, bloodshed is likely to follow. Rulers may lose land, wars may break out, and there may be changes in national power, necessitating increased vigilance. (Other divination methods are the same as mentioned before.) There is also a star called “camp head,” which resembles a collapsing mountain and cracking earth, with clouds rolling down; this phenomenon is referred to as the “camp head star.” Where it falls, the troops below will be completely annihilated, resulting in miles of bloodshed. Some also say that meteors falling during the day are called “camp head.”
Finally, let's talk about auspicious signs. One kind is called “celebration cloud,” which looks like smoke yet isn't, looks like clouds but is not clouds, lush and vibrant, drifting gracefully; this is the “celebration cloud,” also called the “auspicious cloud.” This is a sign of joy and symbolizes a peaceful and prosperous era. Another kind is called “prosperous light,” which is red in color and shaped like a dragon. It can be seen when a sage rises to power or when an emperor dies.
In the first scenario, seeing a rainbow-like phenomenon foretells struggles and confusion, leading to the misguidance of the populace, the ruler's indulgence, ministers conspiring against the ruler, the emperor being dominated by the empress, or showing favoritism towards one wife at the expense of others. In the second scenario, seeing clouds resembling oxen and sheep, shaped like dogs, that are red and have long tails, foretells that the ruler will encounter rebellion or face military disasters.
