The first situation is that stars are visible during the day. When the stars and sun appear simultaneously, this phenomenon is referred to as "marrying off a daughter." When the stars and sun compete for light, military power will weaken, and civil governance will strengthen; women will hold power, indicating mourning in the city and war in the countryside. There is also a saying that if ministers have treacherous intentions and the ruler is unwise, the ministers will collude with each other, which may lead to flooding. Another saying is that if stars are visible during the day and rainbows remain, it signifies that the ministers are honest and upright; if the stars overshadow the sun, a new ruler is about to emerge in the world.
The second situation is that the stars are unseen. The stars represent the reigning monarch. If the stars are unseen, it symbolizes the betrayal of feudal lords, who do not assist the monarch and do not adhere to the law, depicting a leaderless state. Another saying is that if the stars are not visible, it indicates that the monarch is not strict and that the law is in decline. There is also a saying that if the Son of Heaven misrules, the feudal lords will act tyrannically. Additionally, if both the stars and constellations are not visible, it symbolizes the decline and fall of the feudal lords in the Central Plains.
The third situation is that stars fall, and the world will descend into chaos.
The fourth situation is that if the stars shake, the common people will face hardship.
The fifth scenario, stars falling. When big stars fall, the sun loses its place, signaling the beginning of disaster. Another belief holds that when many stars fall, the people will lose their positions. Wherever stars fall, dynasties are destined to change. It is also said that where stars fall, there will be battlefields, chaos in the world that lasts for three years. Rapidly falling stars signify impending war below, and where constellations fall, families and nations will perish, with many stars falling, which leads to the death of the populace. There is also a belief that falling stars result in flooding; when the yellow star falls, the sea surges. Some say that when the yellow star falls, the sea will overflow. It is also said that when the "Ma Ben" constellation falls, the Bohai Sea will burst its banks. Stars falling like rain will signify the emperor's decline, the feudal lords seizing power, five overlords taking turns dominating, forming alliances and swallowing the weak, with large nations annexing smaller ones. Another belief is that when the stars leave the sky, it is like the people leaving the king. When the king loses his way, the laws and order will be forsaken, and the people will betray and leave. Therefore, stars falling from the sky signal these omens. When a country faces war and disaster, stars fall and transform into birds and beasts. When the world is about to perish, stars fall and become flying insects. In the event of a large-scale war, stars fall and become gold and iron. In the event of flooding, stars fall and become mud. When a monarch loses his realm to war, stars fall and become grass and trees. When war breaks out and a monarch loses his country, stars fall and become sand. Stars falling, for people, indicate fortune and misfortune just like their actions and words. It is also believed that when a country experiences a great mourning, stars fall and transform into dragons.
The so-called "evil star" is actually the essence of the five elements, an anomaly produced by the movement and changes of the five stars. The direction in which it appears can foretell where disasters are likely to strike. Based on the day it appears and its color, one can deduce which country will experience fortune or misfortune. If it appears over a certain country, that country is bound to act irrationally and disrespectfully; following that, chaos, famine, plagues, and various disasters will follow in quick succession.
There is also another saying: when the evil star appears, its shapes vary, but the disasters it causes are generally similar. Generally speaking, the evil star typically doesn’t stay for more than a year; if it persists for three years, it will spell disaster—nations will fall, cities will be ravaged, kings will die, and the world will fall into chaos, with soldiers clashing everywhere, and corpses littering the battlefield. Even after the disaster has passed, calamities like floods, droughts, wars, famine, and plagues will keep tormenting the populace. Additionally, the size of the evil star also influences the severity and duration of the disaster. If it is three to five feet in length, the disaster lasts for a hundred days; five feet to one zhang lasts for a year; one zhang to three zhang lasts for three years; three zhang to five zhang lasts for five years; five zhang to ten zhang lasts for seven years; and over ten zhang lasts for nine years. With careful observation, these disaster predictions can indeed prove accurate.
Comets, commonly known as broom stars, look like stars, but their tails are broom-like; some are only a few inches long, while others can stretch across the sky. The appearance of a comet signifies the coming of war and floods; it acts like a large broom, sweeping away the old and ushering in a new era. Comets have five colors, each corresponding to the properties associated with the five elements. Historical records indicate that comets do not produce their own light; they shine by reflecting sunlight. Therefore, when seen in the evening, their tails point east; when seen in the morning, their tails point west; and in the north and south directions of the sun, their orientation follows the sunlight. The brightness of a comet fluctuates, varying in length; wherever their light shines, disaster is sure to follow.
There is another type of star called the Bō star, which is also a kind of comet. Comets tend to lean in one direction, while the Bō star's light radiates in all directions. The Bō star appears suddenly and unusually, emanating from malevolent forces. It either signifies internal chaos within a country or the outbreak of external wars, as lords conspire and collude, ultimately leading to harm for all. Yan Zi once said, "If Your Majesty does not reform and renew, the Bō star will appear; what is there to fear from comets?" This indicates that the Bō star brings even greater disasters than comets.
Legend has it that the essence of the Star of the Year transformed into several celestial phenomena: the Celestial Cudgel, Celestial Spear, Celestial Cunning, Celestial Clash, National Emperor, and Counter Ascent. First, let's talk about the Celestial Cudgel, also known as the Awakening Star or Heavenly Grid. It looks like a star, with a sharp front end, measuring approximately four zhang in length! This phenomenon is associated with "destroying soldiers" and "striving," which means that its appearance signals misfortune for the country, and war should be avoided at all costs! Another saying is that within three months of the appearance of the Celestial Cudgel, a military defeat and city breaches are certain. Some also say that the appearance of the Celestial Cudgel indicates that women will take power; however, the fundamental meaning of this celestial phenomenon still relates to the rulers.
Next is the Tianqiang, which primarily serves to "capture" and suppress rebellions. Some say it resembles a cow surrounded by swirling clouds; others say it resembles a horse with clouds following it; and others say it resembles a long spear with sharp points on both ends, several zhang long! Tianchan, similar to Tianqiang, also has a sharp front end, about a zhang long. Then there is Tianhua, the appearance of this star signals impending trouble, meaning that the country is going to be in chaos! It is said that if the ruler acts recklessly, defies the will of heaven, and is cruel and unkind, Tianhua will appear.
Next is Tianchong, which appears as a motionless figure dressed in blue with a red head. This star is associated with the downfall of the ruler; when it appears, the ruler's fate is sealed! Another belief is that when Tianchong appears, ministers will rebel and the army will mutiny. There is an even more alarming belief: the Tianchong star will hold the North Star and weep in front of the emperor, a blood-red mist will envelop the world, and grievances will be widespread! Next is Guohuang, believed to have split from the Ji star. Guohuang star is very large, bright red, similar to the Nanji star. Its appearance signifies the elimination of treacherous officials, but also internal strife. Its appearance heralds impending war and widespread chaos! Some claim this star hovers just one or two zhang above the ground and looks like a torch. (By the way, there is also a Guohuang star among the guest stars, with the same name but different omens.)
Lastly, there is Fandeng, which is associated with rebellion and tyranny, similar to the Situ star, within the scope of the Seven Mansions of the Azure Dragon. Its appearance indicates rebellion or tyrannical rule, resulting in missed opportunities for spring sowing. In short, the appearance of these stars is related to the conquest of monarchs.
Speaking of the planet Saturn, its energy changes can manifest as Xidan, Chiyou Flag, Zhaoming, Siwei, and Tianchan, these strange celestial phenomena. First, let's talk about Xidan, also known as Zhaodan; it is said to signify national decline. Some say that when Xidan appears horizontally, extending like a boat paddle up to a hundred feet long, it predicts that the ministers will be executed.
Regarding the Chiyou flag, some say it is formed by the spreading of rotating stars, while others claim it is caused by the movements of five stars. It resembles a comet, but is curved and undulating, resembling a flag. There are also claims that when the sky is clear without a cloud, a sudden patch of red cloud appears, which is the Chiyou flag; some say it looks like a sieve, about two zhang long, with a star at its end; another interpretation is that when the country is in chaos and evil gathers, clouds that look like tall bamboo will appear in the sky, yellow on top and white underneath, called the Chiyou flag, signifying the need to eradicate rebellion; it is also said that when the emperor is about to get angry, the Chiyou flag will appear; or when a tyrant is about to seize power, the Chiyou flag will also show up; others say it initially resembled a star, but later transformed into a twisted, curved banner, measuring two to three zhang long. Its appearance signals the ruler is about to lead troops into battle, with weapons clashing everywhere, or that a major tragedy is about to strike the nation.
Next is Zhaoming, which is formed by the transformation of the five celestial bodies in the west, which is said to embody the essence of gold. Some say it is formed from the splitting of the red comet. When the light of Zhaoming fades, its shape resembles that of the Morning Star, with seven rays of light, signaling the rise of a dominant power. Another theory suggests that Zhaoming is formed from the scattering of the 'machine stars'; others say that a star appears in the west, seemingly about six zhang away from the ground, shining brightly, shaped like the Morning Star, moving frequently, and upon closer inspection, it is red; this is the wild star in the west, known as Zhaoming. Its appearance heralds the onset of large-scale warfare, and funerals will follow wherever it appears. If it appears in the south, it foretells territorial losses for western nations. Some say Zhaoming looks like the Morning Star, but it remains stationary, signifying the rise of virtuous leaders. Another claim is that a large, white star with horns is seen in the west; viewed from below, this is Zhaoming, embodying the essence of gold, and its appearance heralds impending warfare. If it lingers in the position of the housing star, the nation will face funerals, and it may even lead to citywide massacres. When Zhaoming descends, it transforms into the celestial hound, and wherever it descends, large-scale warfare will ensue, with rivers of blood flowing.
Then there is the star Siwei; some say it was formed by the dispersal of a mechanical star, while others say it was formed by the gas splitting of a white comet. The stable movement of the Siwei star suggests internal conflict within the country. Some say the Siwei star is large, hairy, and has two horns; others say it is like the planet Venus, constantly moving, and appears red upon closer inspection. The appearance of the Siwei star indicates the rise of a strong state, indicating an impending attack on powerful lords. Some say that the appearance of the Siwei star heralds the ruler's loss of virtue, leading to the emperor's downfall due to his injustices, while talented ministers will assist a virtuous ruler. Another belief holds that the appearance of the Siwei star will incite mutual slaughter among vassal states. It is also said that when the Siwei star appears in the due west, it is a celestial wild star from the west, about six zhang away from the ground, large and white, resembling the planet Venus. One belief is that its appearance will lead to war, with powerful countries emerging victorious; another belief is that the appearance of the Siwei star is an ill omen, foretelling war and dire consequences.
Finally, there is Tianchan, small and white in appearance, constantly moving, referred to as the Chan star or the Zhan star; it portends slaughter and punishment. Some say that when Tianchan appears, women will rule, but in reality, they are working for men. Others say that when Tianchan appears, there will be mutual slaughter, war, and famine, with stretches of barren land and heaps of white bones. Some say that the appearance of Tianchan signifies internal unrest within the state. Another belief is that it is the vital essence of the sun, appearing within the domain of the Red Bird Seven Mansions, foretelling rebellion, tyranny, and harm, with the monarch losing the summer decree.
In ancient times, astronomers classified certain special celestial phenomena as "the essence of the Five Remnants," which are: the Five Remnants, the Six Thieves, the Prison Han, the Great Ban, the Shining Star, the Flowing Stream, the Spiral Star, the Beginning of the Ten Days, and the Strike of Misfortune. First, let's talk about the "Five Remnants." Some say it represents the scattering of rotating stars; others say it is the scattering of the comet. In any case, it signifies the destruction and decline of the nation. Some also say that the "Five Remnants" are divided into five sections, or that it is a main trunk splitting into five branches. After the appearance of the "Five Remnants," within nine years, treachery will arise, and after twenty-seven years, the world will fall into chaos, becoming difficult to control. Others believe that the "Five Remnants" reflect the changes of the five elements, originating from the east, representing the transformation of wood energy. There are also claims that the "Five Remnants," also called the "Five Seams," appear in the true east, resembling a morning star, six or seven zhang above the ground, large and white, foretelling disaster and death. Another viewpoint states that a star appears in the east, about six zhang above the ground, large and red, and upon closer inspection, it has a blue hue inside. Some say that this star has a ring of blue halo around it, resembling hair, somewhat like the Year Star, which is the wild star of the east, called the "Five Remnants." Its appearance indicates the outbreak of large-scale wars, and there will be funerals in the places where it appears. If it appears in the north, eastern countries will lose territory. Another interpretation suggests that when the "Five Remnants" appear, the four corners of the realm will be weak, and the emperor will face urgent warfare. Some also claim that the "Five Remnants" are large and red, frequently moving, and upon careful observation, they are blue inside. In summary, the appearance of the "Five Remnants" signifies the outbreak of war.
Next is "Liuzai." It embodies the energy of the Five Phases in the south; some believe it represents a transformation of fire energy. Others say its shape resembles a comet. Another saying claims that a star appears in the south, six zhang in the sky, red in color, often moving, and upon closer inspection, it emits light, somewhat resembling Mars. This is the wild star of the south, called "Liuzai." Its appearance signifies the outbreak of war, and the country will descend into chaos, and funerals will take place beneath its appearance. If it appears in the east, the southern kingdom will lose territory. Some say that the "Liuzai star" appears directly south, six zhang in the sky, large and red, often moving and shining. Next, we have "Yuhan," also referred to as "Xianhan." Some believe it represents the scattering of the power star; others say it embodies the energy of the Five Phases in the north, representing a transformation of water energy. "Yuhan" is green with a hint of red, with three comets scattered below, foretelling the pursuit or assassination of a king. Some also say that a star appears in the north, six zhang in the sky, large and red, often moving, and upon closer inspection, it is dark greenish-black, somewhat like the planet Chen. This is the wild star of the north, called "Xianhan." Its appearance signifies the outbreak of war, and there will be funerals beneath where it appears. If it appears in the west, the northern kingdom will lose territory. Some say that when "Yuhan" moves, the feudal lords will be filled with dread; its appearance signifies the onset of treachery.
"Da Ben" indicates riots and disturbances; "Zhao Xing" signifies the demise of a nation; "Chuliu" predicts upheaval in the realm, with the monarch being compelled to flee. Some also say that "Chuliu" signifies self-destruction, unable to escape. "Fuxing" appears in the southeast direction, originally a regular star, but its tail resembles the character "fu." Where it appears, the country will face calamities. "Xunshi," some say it represents the scattering of the pivotal star; others say it is the changes in the five stars; some interpret it as ominous; others claim it is Chiyou, appearing next to the Big Dipper, shaped like a rooster and dark blue, akin to a tortoise. Some say it split from the Yellow Comet. "Xunshi" signifies a new beginning, shaped like a rooster, embodying yang within the earth, intermingling light and dark, with energy like a rooster, thus regarded as a symbol of sovereignty. After the appearance of "Xunshi," within a decade, sages will emerge to supplant the old dynasty. Some say "Xunshi" predicts war, chaos, and calamity; others claim that when "Xunshi" manifests, rulers will be toppled, with five kinds of evil causing chaos, corpses strewn across the land, with even instances of cannibalism. Upon the appearance of "Xunshi," ministers will incite rebellion, armies will rise, and vassals will act unlawfully. Some say that observing the Wu Xu day, the Five Chariot Stars, and the Celestial Army and Celestial Storehouse, if unusual celestial phenomena are observed, it signifies "Xunshi." Shaped like a bird with a beak, its emergence heralds the outbreak of large-scale warfare, with the commanders of the armies attacking in its direction meeting defeat and death. Some say that when "Xunshi" appears near the Big Dipper, sages will receive their mandate, the emperor will live long, and kings will be fortunate. Finally, "Jijiu," when it appears, ministers will control the ruler, foreshadowing widespread conflict. Some say "Jijiu" is the earth spirit in the area of the Big Dipper, impacting all quarters; should rebels or tyrants arise, this celestial phenomenon will manifest.
Once upon a time, the essence of the planet Venus in the sky scattered into eight constellations: Tianchu, Tianci, Fuling, Dabai, Zijian, Tiangou, Tiancan, and Zhuqi.
First is Tianchu, which governs plagues and diseases of sheep. Next is Tianci, which presides over disasters and strikes. Then comes Fuling, which controls slander and defamation. If Fuling appears, it will lead to chaos and suffering among the people. The star Dabai, presiding over war and conflict, is said to reveal conspiracies and schemes when it appears, leading to retaliation. The star Zijian, fittingly named, foretells the emergence of demons and monsters.
There are many interpretations of the Tiangou star. One interpretation is that it is formed by the convergence of five stars, appearing in the southwest, created by the gaseous interaction between Venus and Mars. Another interpretation describes Tiangou as having hair, accompanied by small comets, and resembling a dog from below. Its appearance signifies the need for conscription and war against rebels. Some say that when Tiangou appears, it signals infighting among five generals. Another account mentions a star in the northwest, three zhang (approximately 10 meters) long, formed by the gaseous convergence of Mercury and Venus, also called Tiangou. Additionally, there are claims of three large and white stars in the northwest, which are also known as Tiangou. In summary, the appearance of Tiangou signifies the onset of large-scale wars, widespread famine, and even the horrifying prospect of cannibalism. Where Tiangou falls, there will surely be brutal wars, military defeats, generals killed, corpses strewn across the fields, rivers of blood, and Tiangou will consume the dead and wounded. These disasters may occur within a year, or at worst, within three years, depending on where the Tiangou star falls in a particular country, which is used to predict fortune and misfortune. (There is also a type of meteor called Tiangou, which shares the same name, but the specific omens it represents differ slightly.)
The Celestial Remnant Star governs greed and brutality. The last mentioned is the General Star; its appearance signifies that disaster may occur at any time, and signs of various calamities have already emerged, with ministers potentially plotting to usurp power. Some say the General Star is the essence of the Lesser Yin, similar to the astrological sign of the Grand Marshal, appearing in the area of the White Tiger's Seven Lodges, foretelling rebellion, tyranny, and violence, leading to political errors in the autumn. Its manifestation occurs similarly to the previous star signs; calamities will also manifest.
The essence of the Chen Star is scattered into seven star signs: Errant Arrow, Broken Woman, Disrupted Pivot, Extinguished Treasure, Surrounding Court, Frightening Principle, and Great Sacrifice. First, let’s delve into the Errant Arrow Star. Some say it is formed from the transformation of the Filling Star; others say it is formed from the scattering of the Machine Star; and there are those who believe the Errant Arrow Star is produced by the changes in the waxing and waning of the Five Stars, shaped like a bow and crossbow. It resembles a massive meteor, dark gray in color, moving like a snake, and from a distance, it seems to have hair and eyes, extending several yards in length, very conspicuous in the sky. Its appearance signals impending rebellion and the likelihood of someone being shot. Some also say that the Errant Arrow Star forms after the black comet splits. Errant Arrow signifies shooting and killing. The appearance of the Errant Arrow Star signifies that rebel armies have gathered, and those who are shot are suppressed as punishment for their rebellion. Additionally, it is said that if a ruler rules with tyranny and despotism, the Errant Arrow Star will appear. Another interpretation is that the Errant Arrow Star looks like a meteor, appearing with a tail and eyes, about the length of a yard, shining brightly in the sky. Its appearance foretells that a large-scale war will break out, with generals going to battle and bows and crossbows being used in large quantities, and this situation will last for three years. In summary, wherever the Errant Arrow Star appears, it heralds suppression and destruction.
Next is the Broke Maiden Star. If the Broke Maiden Star appears, both the ruler and their subjects will face execution, foretelling victory in battle. Then there is the Disruptor Star. The appearance of the Disruptor Star signifies turmoil and unrest, resulting in social chaos. Some say the Disruptor Star influences the seasons. Now let's talk about the Annihilator Star. The Annihilator Star's appearance indicates that both sides will engage in conflict. Some say that the Annihilator Star foretells the outbreak of war. The Circumventing Court Star signifies the rise of rebellion. The Startling Order Star signifies the dismissal of ministers. The Great Sacrifice Star heralds impending disasters. Others claim that the Great Sacrifice Star's appearance heralds peace and stability. The essence of the Moon, within the realm of the Seven Lodges of Xuanwu, if rebellion plots or extreme cruelty result in the loss of winter’s decree, then, as mentioned above, chaos will inevitably follow. There is another saying that the five types of star essences lie hidden in deep pools, and their appearance indicates breaches of reason and abnormal behavior, with subordinates imitating such behavior, taking the opportunity to create chaos, ultimately leading to destruction. If these star signs enter the emperor's constellation, it foretells doom, and the vassals will hatch five hundred plots.
The first star sign is the Celestial Edge Star. The Celestial Edge Star, shaped like a comet's head, indicates the outbreak of war. When war breaks out, the Celestial Edge Star will appear. The second is the Candle Star, resembling Venus; it does not move after appearing and will soon disappear. Some say that three comets appear simultaneously with the main star. Where the Candle Star appears, rebellion will break out in that city. Others claim that where the Candle Star shines, turmoil will ensue in that city. There's also a saying that where the Candle Star appears, great thieves may emerge, but they ultimately will not succeed.
Ancient texts are said to record many strange star signs; let's take our time discussing them.
First is the Péng Star, also known as the Wáng Star. Some say it resembles a flickering light in the night sky, appearing as four or five when abundant, and one or two when scarce; others say it is located in the southwest, stretching several zhang, with pointed ends, and its position remains relatively stable after it appears; there are also descriptions of it being yellow and white, with a side length of no more than three feet; others describe it as resembling a puff of cotton, and its appearance signifies that there will be masters of Taoist arts in the world, enabling ordinary people to achieve success, bringing peace and bountiful harvests. However, some believe that the Péng Star appears near the Big Dipper, foreshadowing wars for land among local rulers, ultimately leading to loss of territory and chaos, and that this turmoil will end within three years. Another belief is that if the Péng Star appears in the Taiwei Constellation (near the North Star), it signifies that the emperor will establish a new king.
Next is the Cháng Gēng Star, which looks like a piece of fabric draped across the sky, and its appearance signals that war is imminent. Then there is the Sì Tián Star, which appears in the four corners of the sky, over six zhang in the sky, with some saying it is four zhang, and others stating it is large and red, only two zhang above the ground, and appears only at midnight. The appearance of the Sì Tián Star signals that war will break out within ten months. If the Sì Tián Star appears in all four corners, it indicates that wars will occur in various places.
Now let's talk about the Dì Wéi Zàng Guāng Star. This star is formed from the energy of the five elements interacting with seasonal earth energy. Some say it is large and red, two to three zhang above the ground, resembling the moon, and it is referred to as Dì Wéi Zàng Guāng when it first appears. Others say it appears in the four corners of the sky, appearing to be four zhang above the ground, reddish-yellow, and may sway like the Sì Tián Star; this star that appears outside the central region is called Dì Wéi Zàng Guāng. If it appears in the northeast corner, the world will experience devastating floods; if in the southeast corner, there will be severe drought; if in the southwest corner, war will occur; if in the northwest corner, there will be great chaos in the world, with large-scale wars. Another belief is that when the Dì Wéi Zàng Guāng Star appears, those who have done wrong will face misfortune, while those with virtues will prosper.
Then there is the Female Brocade Star. This star is formed through the combination and transformation of the five elements (metal, wood, water, fire, earth) and appears in the northeast, resulting from the merging of water and wood energy. Some say it is three zhang long, and its appearance indicates that war will break out in the world, or that there will be great funerals.
Next is the Robber Star. The Robber Star is also formed by the combination and transformation of the five elements, appearing in the southeast, resulting from the merging of fire and wood energy. It is three zhang long, and its appearance signifies that many thieves will emerge, and bandits will be rampant.
Finally, there is the Accumulation Mound Star. The Accumulation Mound Star is also formed by the combination and transformation of the five elements, appearing in the northwest, resulting from the merging of metal and water energy. Some say it can also be seen in the southwest, is three zhang long, and its appearance indicates that frost will blanket the land, large-scale wars will occur, grains will fail, and the people will be hungry.
There is a star called the "Duan Star," which is formed through the gathering and transformation of the five elements. It appears in the four corners of the sky, with a large, bright red star in each corner. Upon closer inspection, the star core is yellow and moves, reaching a length of four zhang. This is actually a manifestation of earth energy, which affects the seasons, hence it is called the "Four Corners Duan Star." The appearance of this star indicates that large-scale wars are about to occur.
Next is the "Hunchang" Star. It appears in the northwest direction, surrounded by blue and red gases, with red in the middle and blue on the outside. Once this star appears, wars will break out in the world, and national powers will change. Those who rise up first will prosper, while those who rise up later will perish. The star's height determines how long the chaos will last: ten zhang high means chaos for one year; twenty zhang high means chaos for two years; thirty zhang high means chaos for three years.
Then there is the "Shen Star." It also appears in the northwest direction and appears to have two rings, named "Shanqin." When this star appears, the vassal states will lose land, especially those in the northwest.
There is also a star called the "White Star," which resembles a star but isn't one, shaped like a cut melon. It heralds victories, but also the loss of lives.
The "Tuchang" Star also appears in the northwest direction, surrounded by red and blue gases, foretelling disaster, with blue symbolizing water. When this star appears, significant changes will occur in the world.
The "Geze" star resembles a blazing flame. Some say it is yellow at the top and white at the bottom, emerging from the earth, thick at the bottom and thin at the top. When it appears, it can yield a bountiful harvest without any farming. Others say that if there are no construction projects, ambassadors from neighboring nations may visit, possibly within a year or two. There is also a belief that the gas of the Geze star is a fiery red, burning fiercely in the middle of the sky, with the same color above and below, stretching across the east and west, while being shorter in the north and south, reaching a length of four to five li. This phenomenon is associated with the comet star, and when it appears, war is certain to occur, with bodies littering the land and rivers of blood, lasting about three years.
The "Guixie" star looks like a star but is not a star, resembling a cloud but not quite a cloud. Some say it has two red comets flying upward, with a gas-like cover on top, connected to stars below. Others say that when this star appears, it signifies that a nation will yield.
Finally, there is the "Meng" star, which appears at night as red gas resembling a flag with teeth, varying in length and extending in all directions, most prominently to the southwest. It is also called the "Knife Star," a symbol of war and turmoil. Another belief is that the sky is filled with thin clouds, with reddish-yellow gas appearing in all directions, three feet long, flickering in and out of sight, quickly disappearing. Some say that when the "Knife Star" appears, wars will erupt everywhere, with fighting and bloodshed. Another version states that the sky is filled with thin clouds, with a total of eight strands of pale gas, three feet long, flickering in and out of sight.
In the Han Dynasty, Jing Fang wrote a book called "Feng Jiao Shu," which includes a chapter titled "Ji Xing Zhang," documenting that these ominous stars appear near the moon, surrounded by colorful square clouds, which appear on the fifth day of the month corresponding to the clouds produced by the five stars.
The Tianqiang star is born in the Ji constellation, the Tiangen star in the Wei constellation, the Tianjing star in the Xin constellation, the Zhenru 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. These stars are all born from Jupiter (the Year Star). They manifest on the day of Jia Yin, with two green squares flanking each star.
The Tianyin Star was born in the Zhen (轸) constellation, the Jinruo Star was born in the Yi constellation, the Guanzhang Star was born in the Zhang constellation, the Tianhuo Star was born in the Qi constellation, the Tianque Star was born in the Liu constellation, the Chiru Star was born in the Gui constellation, and the Chiyou Star was born in the Jing constellation; these stars are all associated with Yinghuo (Mars). They appeared on the Bingyin day, accompanied by two red squares.
The Tian Shang Star, Tian Fa Star, Cong Star, Tian Shu Star, Tian Zhai Star, Tian Fei Star, and Jing Comet are all born of the Zhenxing (Saturn). They appeared on the Wuyin day, accompanied by two yellow squares.
The Ruoxing Star was born in the Shen constellation, the Zhou Star was born in the Zi constellation, the Ruohui Star was born in the Bi constellation, the Zhu Comet was born in the Mao constellation, the Qiang Star was born in the Wei constellation, the Ling Star was born in the Lou constellation, and the Baique Star was born in the Kui constellation; these stars are all born of the Taibai Star (Venus). They appeared on the Gengyin day, accompanied by two white squares.
The Tianmei Star was born in the Bi constellation, the Tianci Star was born in the Shi constellation, the Tiandu Star was born in the Wei constellation, the Tianma Star was born in the Xu constellation, the Tianlin Star was born in the Nu constellation, the Tiangao Star was born in the Niu constellation, and the Duanxia Star was born in the Dou constellation; these stars are all born of the Chenxing (Mercury). They appeared on the Renyin day, accompanied by two black squares.
The thirty-five stars previously mentioned are all generated by the energies of the five elements, and they appear in the positions to the left and right of the moon. They can be seen a few days before they are about to appear but have not yet appeared. If they are spotted before their appearance, it indicates disasters like floods, droughts, wars, funerals, famines, and unrest, foreshadowing the destruction of the country, loss of territory, death of the ruler, defeat of the army, and the killing of generals.
According to ancient beliefs, the five stars known as Zhou Bo, Laozi, Wang Pengxu, Guohuang, and Wenxing are referred to as "guest stars." These five stars wander among the twelve countries' star constellations, and wherever they appear in a country's sky or near a constellation, it foretells the fortunes and misfortunes of that country. These celestial signs serve as grim reminders of the fates that may befall nations.
Zhou Boxing Star is large, yellow, and shiny. If it appears, the country will go to war, or there will be a funeral, a nationwide famine, and the common people will have to escape. A similarly appearing star, the Rui Star, yields a comparable divination result, though the circumstances differ slightly. The Laozi Star is both large and bright, white in color, with a soft light. Where it appears, there will either be famine or troubles; otherwise, there will be a mix of good and bad events; in short, it signifies unpredictability. Its appearance is often a precursor to large-scale wars, causing the ruler to feel anxious. However, if the ruler promptly issues a pardon to avert disaster, the calamity may be mitigated. The Wang Pengxu Star resembles fluffy white cotton, gently floating. Its appearance indicates that the country will face war or funerals, with many people dressed in white gathering together, ultimately leading to famine and death in the country. Another saying goes that the Wang Pengxu Star is green and shiny; where it appears, the weather will be erratic, droughts will be severe, crops will fail, grains will be scarce, and locusts will swarm. The Guohuang Star appears large, with yellow and white hues, and looks like it has horns. Its appearance foretells the outbreak of war, national unrest, potential floods or famines, leading to the ruler's anger and causing the common people to suffer from numerous disasters and diseases. The Wen Star is white, very large, and sways like the wind, often appearing in the four corners of the sky. If it appears in the southeast, it means war is imminent, and generals will go to battle; if it appears in the northeast, there will be large-scale warfare over a thousand-mile radius; the same goes for the northwest; if it appears in the southwest, the country will go to war and suffer funerals, and there may also be floods and famine. Another interpretation suggests that when the Wen Star appears in the southeast, it indicates that the great general is at a loss; appearing in the northeast means bodies will be everywhere, within a thousand-mile radius; the same holds true if it appears in the west.
If a guest star appears in a certain constellation area and stays there, people predict good or bad luck based on its color. The larger the star, the larger the event; the smaller the star, the smaller the event. A yellow star foretells good omens, a white star foretells funerals, a blue star foretells worries, a black star foretells death, and a red star foretells war. In short, based on the five colors for divination, the predictions are valid for no more than three years. Another theory is that when a guest star enters the inner and outer government offices of the constellations, events are inferred based on the department and official names where it appears; the place it visits is where the event is plotted; the countries it oversees will face calamities; the period of the event is inferred based on the constellation where it is located; and the five gases counteract each other, which is the cause of the event. Ah, shooting stars—they're like angels. When they fall from the sky, it's called "falling," and when they ascend, it's called "flying." The big ones are called "rushing," which is also a type of shooting star. The size of a shooting star depends on the size of the event it represents. A rumbling sound signifies anger. The faster it runs, the faster the event progresses; the slower it runs, the slower the event progresses. Large and dim, that's the common people's affairs; small and shining, that's the affairs of the nobility; large and bright, that's the business of those with power and involving many people. Flickering signifies the downfall of wrongdoers. If the front is large and the back is small, it suggests a troubling situation; if the front is small and the back is large, it's a good thing. Winding forward like a snake indicates deceit. If it races away, it won't return. A long shooting star means a lasting event; a short shooting star means a quick end to the event. Where a shooting star falls, conflict will arise. If the sky is clear and a shooting star suddenly appears, taking a long time to disappear, it indicates a strong wind blowing down houses and breaking trees. If numerous small shooting stars appear and dart about, it indicates that the common people will migrate. The varying shapes of shooting stars yield diverse divination results, as described in ancient books and the "Jingzhou Divination."
The tail of a shooting star, twenty to thirty meters long, shining brightly, its brilliance spreads across the sky. The white ones signify the king's messengers, while the red ones represent those of the general. Shooting stars shine in a yellow-white color, falling from the sky with a sound like a torch hitting the ground, causing wild chickens to call out; this is a sign of divine blessing! Where shooting stars land, the country will be peaceful and joyful, as tranquil as still water. Shooting stars that are blue-red, known as "ground geese," where they land, people will take up arms. Shooting stars shine in blue-red color, twenty to thirty meters long, called "heavenly geese," a symbol of the elite forces; the country where it falls will rise up, and the main general and his troops must follow its path. In summary, shooting stars the size of a water jar foretell significant events in the making, with uprisings on the horizon; those the size of peaches herald the arrival of messengers. Shooting stars the size of a water jar, colored reddish-black, shaped like a bird's beak, called "Liangxing," where it lands, war will ensue, and the ruler will lose territory.
Legend has it that several strange celestial phenomena appeared in the sky, each as large as a giant cauldron or urn, trailing a bright white light. The first type, low in the front and high in the back, resembling a clumsy oaf, is called "Dun Wan." Wherever it appears, many lives are often lost, and the country might surrender territory without a fight. Another type, also low in the front and high in the back, swaying back and forth, is called "Jiang Shi." Where it appears, the people will struggle to find enough food. There is another kind, which, after the star fades, spirals like a wheel, called "Jie Xian." In countries where this celestial phenomenon appears, people will kill each other, fighting for titles and salaries, resulting in widespread chaos. Another type has a trailing white light that stretches several zhang in length. After the star disappears, the white light will turn into clouds and fall, called "Da Hua." It will be a scene of rivers of blood and corpses strewn everywhere. Lastly, there is a type with a trailing white light over ten zhang long, curving downwards, called "Tian Xing," also known as "Tian Shi," signifying that the generals will be granted territories.
Next, let's talk about the "Heavenly Dog." It looks like a flying star, yellow in color, and makes a sound. It falls to the ground, its shape resembling that of a dog, where it lands appearing as a blazing fire, shooting straight up into the sky, with a pointed top and a round bottom, approximately the size of several acres. Some claim this star appears to have fur, with a short comet next to it and a dog shape below. Others say that when this star appears, it shines in red and white, sparkling brightly, and after falling to the ground, it turns into a Heavenly Dog. Another belief holds that a shooting star can illuminate a person's face, falling silently as if it has legs, and this is called a Heavenly Dog. It is white in color, with yellow inside, and the yellow part looks like embers. The appearance of the Heavenly Dog signifies impending war and the crackdown on bandits. After its appearance, there will be wars in all directions, armies will be defeated within a thousand miles, and generals will be killed. Some say that when five stars align, people will kill each other, and in places where this celestial phenomenon occurs, bloodshed is likely to occur. The ruler will lose territory, wars will erupt, there will be changes in political power, and vigilance is needed. The divination results are the same as before. Another celestial phenomenon known as "Camp Head," which resembles a collapsing mountain amid swirling clouds. This is called the "Camp Head Star," and where it falls, the army below will face total annihilation, with bloodshed for miles. Some say that a shooting star falling during the day is called "Camp Head."
Lastly, let's talk about auspicious signs. One is called "Celebratory Cloud," like smoke but not smoke, like clouds but not clouds, lush and fluttering; this phenomenon is known as Celebratory Cloud, or Scenic Cloud. This signifies joy and symbolizes an era of peace and prosperity. Another is called "Auspicious Light," red in color, like a dragon. This auspicious sign appears during the rise of sages and the passing of emperors.
The first bad omen is the rainbow, known as '虹蜺' (hóng yí), appearing next to the sun. It signifies that internal turmoil will occur, with confusion among the people, a ruler given to debauchery, disloyal ministers plotting against the ruler, the emperor being dominated by the empress or concubines, or the emperor being preoccupied with the beauties of his harem and unable to concentrate.
The second bad omen is the '牜羊云' (niú yáng yún), clouds resembling cattle and sheep, shaped like a dog, reddish in color, with a long tail. It foretells calamity for the ruler and losses for the army. "The rainbow appears next to the sun, causing confusion, debauchery, disloyal ministers plotting against the ruler, and the emperor being dominated by the empress. The cattle and sheep clouds, resembling a dog with a reddish color and a long tail, signify calamity for the ruler and loss for the army." This excerpt illustrates these ominous signs.
