The North Star and the Crooked Chen Star are both in the Purple Palace. The North Star, also known as the North Star, has the middle star, known as the Celestial Pivot, which is the center of celestial rotation. While the heavens are in constant motion, with the sun, moon, and stars always on the move, the North Star remains still. It is said, "it remains in its position, while the other stars revolve around it." Scholars such as Jia Kui, Zhang Heng, Cai Yong, Wang Fan, and Lu Ji all believe that the middle star of the North Star is the Celestial Pivot and remains unmoving. Using instruments, Zu Xie observed that at the end of the fixed point of the middle star in the North Star, there was an additional degree.
The group of five stars in the North Star, with the middle star representing the seat of the Great One. The first star governs the moon and represents the crown prince; the second star governs the sun and represents the emperor; the third star governs the other five stars, representing the imperial offspring. The second star is the brightest and reddest of the group. Among the five stars of the North Star, it holds the highest position. If the middle star is dim, it signifies that the emperor does not require assistance; if the star on the right is dim, the crown prince will face trouble. The Crooked Chen Star is the residence of the official consort of the Heavenly Emperor and also the seat of the Heavenly Emperor. The four stars in the north are called the Female Palace, representing the eighty-one concubines. The central star of the Crooked Chen Star is referred to as the Heavenly Emperor, and its divine essence is known as the Radiant Soul Treasure, governing the gods and holding the records of the gods.
The four stars surrounding the Celestial Pivot of the North Star are known as the Four Assistants, assisting the North Star in issuing decrees. The nine stars above the Heavenly Emperor are referred to as the Hua Gai, used to shield the seat of the Heavenly Emperor. There are also nine stars lined up called the Gang. The five stars beneath the Hua Gai are known as the Five Emperors' Seats, where the emperor resides in order. If a guest star encroaches upon the seat in the Purple Palace, the ministers may be in peril. The six stars adjacent to the Hua Gai and the Gang are known as the Six Jia, used to differentiate between yin and yang and to calculate solar terms, and are positioned near the emperor to issue decrees and inform the populace of the time.
To the east of Polaris, there is a star called the "Star of the Recorder," responsible for documenting faults. In ancient times, there were the Left Historian and Right Historian stars, which symbolize this star. To the north of the Star of the Recorder, there is a star called the "Female Historian," representing women of low status responsible for conveying messages. Thus, there were court historians during the Han Dynasty. The nine stars of the Guest House are located above the Huagai, near the Milky Way, representing the arrival of foreign tribes into the Central Plains. The nearby Guest Star signals treacherous envoys and indicates turmoil caused by foreign tribes. To the south of the Guest House, five stars in the Milky Way, known as "Zhaofu," represent charioteers, also referred to as "Sima" or "Bole." When this star vanishes, horses become highly valuable. To the west, there are nine stars in the Milky Way, shaped like hooks, called "Hook Stars," which, when straightened, can cause earthquakes.
The "Tianyi Star," situated south of the right star of the Ziwai Palace Gate, is a deity of the Heavenly Emperor, overseeing warfare and knowing the fortunes and misfortunes of humanity. The "Taiyi Star," located very close to the Tianyi Star, is also a deity of the Heavenly Emperor, overseeing sixteen deities and knowing where wind, rain, drought, flood, war, famine, and plagues will occur in various countries.
The Ziwai Enclosure contains fifteen stars, seven to the west and eight to the east, all located north of the Big Dipper. One of these stars is called the "Ziwai Star," which is the seat of the Heavenly Emperor and the permanent residence of the Son of Heaven, governing decrees and measurements. The other stars are called "Changyuan," "Tianying," and "Qixing," acting as the guards of the Ziwai Star, much like the ministers beside the Son of Heaven. If a coup occurs in the palace, the Qixing will indicate the direction, and the Son of Heaven will personally lead the troops into battle.
Below the Dongyuan, there are five stars called Tianzhu, which govern the state's politics and religion and serve as the place for issuing decrees. On the first and fifteenth of every month, prohibitions are displayed on the Tianzhu to inform the officials. According to the "Zhou Li," the designs of the decrees are to be displayed in January each year, which is the same principle as the prohibitions on the Tianzhu. The five stars in the southeast of the palace gate are known as Shangshu, responsible for collecting opinions and tirelessly gathering the subjects' opinions day and night, like dragons. The two stars to the west of the Shangshu star are called Yinde and Yangde, responsible for poverty alleviation and disaster relief. The two stars on the inner left side of the palace gate are known as Dali, responsible for judging cases. The six stars outside the palace gate are called Tianchuang, the emperor's sleeping quarters. The two stars outside the southwest corner are called Neichu, overseeing the meals and daily lives of the empress and crown prince. The six stars in the northeast corner are referred to as Tianchu, in charge of grand banquets. The Big Dipper, with an additional assisting star to the north of the Taiwei Wall, is the central hub of the seven policies and the essence of yin and yang. Thus, they traverse the sky, commanding the four directions, ruling the operation of the four seasons and the balance of the five elements. The first four stars of the Big Dipper are called Xuanti, and the last three stars are known as Yuheng. The Big Dipper also symbolizes the ruler of orders and the emperor's chariot, symbolizing the concept of movement and change. The seven stars of the Big Dipper are called Tianshu, Xuan, Ji, Quan, Yuheng, Kaiyang, Yaoguang. The first four stars are referred to as Kui, and the last three stars are referred to as Shao. Tianshu symbolizes heaven, Xuan symbolizes earth, and Ji symbolizes humanity; Quan symbolizes time, Yuheng symbolizes sound, Kaiyang symbolizes law, and Yaoguang symbolizes stars.
Shi said: "The first star is the Zheng star, symbolizing Yang virtue, representing the Son of Heaven; the second star is the Fa star, symbolizing Yin punishment, representing the rank of the female ruler; the third star is the Ling star, symbolizing disaster; the fourth star is the Zhi star, symbolizing heavenly principles, punishing the unjust; the fifth star is the Sha star, symbolizing the center, assisting the four directions, punishing the guilty; the sixth star is the Wei star, symbolizing the heavenly storehouse of grains; the seventh star is the Bu star, also known as the Ying star, symbolizing the army." He also said: "One star represents heaven, two represents earth, three represents fire, four represents water, five represents earth, six represents wood, seven represents metal." He further stated: "One star represents Qin, two represents Chu, three represents Liang, four represents Wu, five represents Zhao, six represents Yan, seven represents Qi."
It is said that the stars in the sky are remarkably potent and conceal many secrets. Look at the Kuixing among the Big Dipper, which is composed of four stars, representing the noble's prison, referred to as heavenly principles! The auxiliary star is right next to the Kaiyang star, assisting the Big Dipper in completing its tasks. The ancients also said it "oversees crises and rectifies injustice," meaning it oversees crises and righteousness, correcting improper conduct; some say it is the "symbol of the prime minister," equivalent to the prime minister's emblem. If these seven political stars (the sun, moon, and five stars) are bright, the country will prosper; if they are dim, the country will suffer. If there are many stars next to the Big Dipper, the country will be peaceful; if there are few stars within the Big Dipper, the common people will live in fear of their superiors, leading to many lawsuits in the world. If the stars are absent for twenty days, it would spell disaster. If the auxiliary star is bright and the Big Dipper is dim, it indicates strong ministers and a weak ruler; if the Big Dipper is bright and the auxiliary star is dim, it indicates a strong ruler and weak ministers. The three stars south of the Big Dipper and the first star of Kuixing are collectively known as the Three Dukes together, responsible for promoting education, coordinating the seven political matters, harmonizing yin and yang, and overseeing national affairs.
Next, let's talk about the Wenchang Star. These six stars are located directly in front of the Kui Star of the Big Dipper and are the heavenly treasury in the sky, governing the planning of heavenly principles. These six stars represent: the first star represents the general, commanding the army, majestic and powerful; the second star represents the deputy general, equivalent to the Minister of Personnel Affairs, assisting on the left and right; the third star represents the noble minister, akin to the Minister of Rites, overseeing rituals, music, and education; the fourth star represents the Minister of Revenue and the Minister of the Interior, overseeing rewards and promotions; the fifth star represents the Minister of Fate and the Minister of Omens, equivalent to the Grand Historian, managing good and bad fortune; the sixth star represents the Minister of Law, equivalent to the Chief Justice, assisting in handling cases. If this first star is bright and lustrous, with a uniform size, it is a sign of heavenly auspiciousness.
The six stars to the north of the Wenchang Star are called the Inner Steps, which serves as the palace of the Heavenly Emperor. There is also a star called "Xiang" to the south of the Big Dipper; this "Xiang" oversees all government officials, governs education, assists the emperor, stabilizes the nation, and handles various affairs. If this star shines, it's an auspicious sign. The sun is positioned to the west of the "Xiang" star, representing great generals and ministers, tasked with vigilance and military defense. If this star is abnormal, war will occur. The four stars to the northwest are called "Shi," which represent those who face corporal punishment. Below the Big Dipper's Kui Star, there are six stars called the Heavenly Prison, which is the prison of nobles, overseeing offenses and crimes, and curbing tyrannical and immoral acts.
Taiwei, the emperor's palace, the seat of the Five Emperors, and the residence of the Twelve Princes. The stars outside represent the Nine Ministers. Some say Taiwei resembles a scale, primarily used to measure fairness. It also represents the heavenly court, responsible for overseeing matters of fairness and justice, supervising rewards and punishments, the stars receiving celestial mandates, the gods assessing the seasons, and dealing with various difficult problems. Among the southern stars, the two in the center are known as Duanmen. The one in the east is called Left Enforcer, akin to the ancient Court Officer; the one in the west is called Right Enforcer, similar to the Grand Secretary in ancient times. Law enforcement is used to expose and punish wrongdoers. East of the Left Enforcer is Left Yemeng, and west of the Right Enforcer is Right Yemeng. The four stars to the east: the southernmost star is called Shangxiang, the one to the north and east is Taiyangmen; the second one is called Cixiang, to the north is Zhonghua East Gate; the third one is called Cijiang, to the north is Dongtaiyinmen; the fourth one is called Shangjiang. These four stars are collectively referred to as the Four Assistants. The four stars to the west are the same: the southernmost star is called Shangjiang, the one to the north and west is Taiyangmen; the second one is called Cijiang, to the north is Zhonghua West Gate; the third one is called Cixiang, to the north is Xitaiyinmen; the fourth one is called Shangxiang. Also known as the Four Assistants. If the stars on the eastern and western sides flicker or shift, it indicates that the princes are planning to rebel against the emperor. If the position of the law enforcement stars changes, the penalties will be more severe. If the moon and the five stars infringe upon the central palace of Taiwei, punishment will ensue. If the moon and the five stars enter Taiwei's orbit, it signifies good fortune.
The three stars in the southwest corner are called Mingtang, which is the palace where the emperor handles state affairs. The three stars west of Mingtang are called Ling Tai, which is an astronomical observatory mainly used to observe celestial phenomena, examine auspicious signs, and predict disasters. The star northeast of the Law Enforcer is called Ye Zhe, which is responsible for receiving guests. The three stars northeast of Ye Zhe are called San Gong Nei Zuo, which is the place for court meetings. The three stars north of San Gong are called Jiu Qing Nei Zuo, which is responsible for handling various affairs. The five stars west of Jiu Qing are called Nei Wu Zhu Hou, who serve the emperor in the palace without returning to their fiefdoms. If the rituals of Bi Yong, an ancient educational institution, are perfected, then the lords in Tai Wei Palace will be clear and bright.
In Tai Wei Palace, there is a star called Huang Di Zuo, which contains the divine power of a central hub. If the emperor's actions align with heavenly will, acting in accordance with the people's will, and remaining impartial, then the seats of the five emperors in Tai Wei Palace will be bright and radiant. If Huang Di Zuo is not bright, the ruler must seek talented individuals to assist in law enforcement; otherwise, he will lose power. There is a saying that if the seats of the five emperors in Tai Wei Palace are dim, dark, or weak, it signifies that the emperor is about to lose his country. Si Di Zuo consists of four stars flanking Huang Di Zuo. The eastern star is the deity of Cang Di Ling Wei; the southern star is the deity of Chi Di Yan Nu; the western star is the deity of Bai Di Zhao Ju; and the northern star is the deity of Hei Di Ye Guang Ji.
There is a constellation in the sky known as Tai Wei Yuan, which represents the imperial palace. The star at the northernmost point is called "Tai Zi," symbolizing the future emperor. The star north of Tai Zi is called "Cong Guan," meaning attendant, similar to the emperor's guards. The star in the northeast is known as "Xing Chen," the emperor's favored minister.
Then, there are four stars called "Ping"; they are on the inside of the palace gate, close to the star "Right Enforcement." "Ping" acts as a barrier against the outside world, protecting the safety of the imperial palace. "Right Enforcement" is in charge of supervision and impeachment. If the ministers respect the emperor, these stars will shine brightly and radiantly.
Moving northeast, there are fifteen stars lined up, called "Lang Position," symbolizing the Yuan Shi of the Zhou Dynasty, the Guanglu, Zhongsan, Jianyi, Yilang, and San Shu Langzhong officials in the Han Dynasty. Some interpret this as also referring to the Shangshu. Lang officials are mainly responsible for defensive duties. If these fifteen stars shine brightly, it indicates that the ministers may threaten the emperor. Some also say that this is a sign of an invasion by foreign enemies. If these fifteen stars are incomplete, it indicates that ministers may face death in the future, and the emperor's favorite ministers will also be killed. If a guest star appears among the Lang Position stars, it heralds that the ministers are going to rebel.
To the north of the Lang Position star, there is a star called "Lang Jiang," responsible for military supplies and overseeing military defense. There is also a star called "Wu Ben," to the northwest of the Taiwei Constellation, near the Xia Tai, overseeing the cavalry responsible for palace security. There are seven stars arranged in a shape like a broom, called "Chang Chen," north of the Prince star, representing the army guarding the emperor, symbolizing a formidable military presence. If these stars are restless, it indicates the emperor will personally go to war; if the stars shine brightly, it indicates a strong army; if the stars are dim, it suggests a weakened army.
Next, let's talk about the six stars of "Three Platforms." They are arranged in pairs, starting from the Wen Chang star all the way to the Zhao Yao star and Tai Wei Yuan. These three stars, also known as Heavenly Pillars, represent the ranks of the three officials. In the heavens, they symbolize enlightened governance and the promotion of education. The two stars farthest to the west are called "Shang Tai," responsible for fate and lifespan; the two central stars are called "Zhong Tai," responsible for central affairs and ancestral temples; the two stars on the far east are called "Xia Tai," responsible for salaries and military affairs, tasked with promoting governance and rectifying mistakes. Another interpretation is that the Three Platforms stars are the ladder in the sky, where the Tai Yi god walks up and down. Some refer to it as the Tai Jie, where the upper stars symbolize the emperor, while the lower stars symbolize the empress; the middle stars symbolize the three officials of the feudal lords, while the lower stars symbolize the ministers; the lower stars symbolize the scholars, and the lower stars symbolize the common people, which are used to harmonize yin and yang and govern all things. If these stars behave unusually, their meanings should be interpreted to predict fortune or misfortune. If the ruler and his officials get along harmoniously, these stars will remain in a normal state of operation.
Finally, to the south, there are four stars called "Nei Ping," which are responsible for law enforcement and judicial matters. To the north of the Zhong Tai star, there is a star called "Da Zun," representing the imperial relatives. To the south of the Xia Tai star, there is a star called "Wu Ben," responsible for guarding the imperial palace.
Speaking of the sky, there is a star called She Ti, with the six stars connected, directly facing the handle of the Big Dipper to the south. This She Ti star governs the timing of the founding of a country and observes signs of good or ill fortune. It serves as a shield, protecting the throne of the Heavenly Emperor and overseeing the positions of the Nine Ministers. When the She Ti star shines brightly, the three officials—who were the highest-ranking officials in ancient times—tend to be more audacious; if a guest star approaches the She Ti star, the sage will find himself subject to others.
To the west, there are three stars known as Zhou Ding, which are associated with the nation's rise and fall. In the center of the She Ti star, there is a large star called Da Jiao, which serves as the seat of the Heavenly Emperor and the mainstay of the heavens, overseeing the nation's economic matters. To the north, there are three stars called Di Xi, representing the venue for the Heavenly Emperor's banquets and feasts. Further north, beyond Da Jiao, there are three stars called Geng He, which are seen as heavenly spears, or as some say, heavenly daggers, overseeing the military matters concerning the barbarians. When Geng He shifts, it signals war and funerals. If this star vanishes, that nation will encounter military disaster.
To the north of Geng He, there is a star called Zhao Yao, which similarly oversees military matters concerning the barbarians. Between Zhao Yao and the handle of the Big Dipper constellation, there is a place called Tian Ku. If this star shifts from its original position, it foretells a full treasury, a sign of prosperity. If Zhao Yao, Tian Dong, Geng He, and the Big Dipper are all bright, it indicates that the barbarians will come to pay tribute and obey China's orders. However, if Zhao Yao shines brightly but is not in the correct position, the barbarians will not come to pay tribute.
To the north of Zhao Yao, there are two stars called Xuan Ge, which oversee matters similar to those of Zhao Yao; some say they govern the northern tribes. If a guest star shifts to Xuan Ge, the barbarians will face a significant defeat. To the east of the handle of the Big Dipper, there are three stars called Tian Qiang, also known as Tian Yue, which are heavenly weapons positioned to the left of the Zi Wei Palace, employed to guard against disasters. To the north of Tian Qiang, there are three stars called Nu Chuang, symbolizing the imperial harem and managing its affairs. To the north of Nu Chuang, there are five stars called Tian Biao, the vanguard for the emperor's military campaigns, overseeing conflicts, punishments, and concealed troops, also employed to guard against disasters. Tian Qiang and Tian Biao are both for dealing with emergencies. If any of these stars are absent, the nation will face a military uprising.
Once upon a time in the sky, there were seven stars called "Fu Kuang" (扶筐), resembling a basket for holding mulberry leaves, which governed the matters of sericulture. There were also seven stars called "Qi Gong" (七公), located to the east of the "Zhao Yao" star, symbolizing celestial authority, much like the ancient Three Dukes, overseeing state affairs. In front of the "Qi Gong," there were nine stars forming the "Guan Suo" (贯索), similar to an ancient prison that housed wrongdoers. This "Guan Suo" was also known as "Lian Suo," "Yun Ying," or "Tian Lao," overseeing the law and restraining the violent. One star in the "Guan Suo" was the prison gate, and if this gate opened, it would spell disaster. If all nine stars shone brightly, it would be filled with lawsuits. If seven stars shone, it meant a minor amnesty; if five stars shone, it indicated a major amnesty. If these nine stars moved, it would necessitate the use of criminal law; if they went dark, it signified a change of dynasty. The "Han Shu" (汉书) states that there are a total of fifteen stars here.
Looking further east, there were nine stars forming the "Tian Ji" (天纪), representing the nine ministers. These nine stars governed the laws of all things and resolved various disputes. If these nine stars shone, there would be many lawsuits; if they dimmed, state affairs would descend into chaos, leading to a decline in national fortune. If they completely disappeared, it would signal earthquakes and landslides. To the east of the "Tian Ji," there were three stars forming the "Zhi Nu" (织女), representing celestial maidens who oversee precious items like silk and jewelry. If the emperor was filial and the deities pleased, the "Zhi Nu" star would shine brightly, ensuring peace in the realm; if the largest "Zhi Nu" star became angry, the prices of fabrics would soar.
Looking further east, there are four stars called "Jian Tai," resembling a platform by the water, which governs time and musical rhythms. To the west, there are five stars called "Niandao," which serves as the path for imperial leisure, linking the northern and southern palaces of the Han Dynasty. Between the left and right corner stars, there are two stars called "officials of Pingdao." To the west of "Pingdao," there is a star called "Jinxian," which governs the recommendation of talents. The two stars north of the Jiao constellation are called "Tiantian," and the six stars north of Kang are called "Kang Pool." "Kang" represents a boat, and "Pool" represents water, governing the ceremonies of welcoming and bidding farewell. The star north of Zhi is called "Tianru," which oversees the sweet dew. In the center of the Fang constellation, there is a star called "Sui," which safeguards it, ensuring a balance of yin and yang. To the west of Fang, there are two stars arranged north and south, called "Tianfu," which oversees royal carriages, akin to ancient ceremonial and public vehicles, and also oversees sacrificial matters. To the north of Fang and Xin, there are eight stars arranged east and west, called "Dongxian" and "Xixian," representing the paths of the sun, moon, and five stars. The gateway of Fang is designed to guard against promiscuity. When these stars shine brightly, it is considered auspicious; when they dim, it becomes perilous. If the moon and the five stars encroach upon it, conspiracies and schemes may arise. Between Dongxian and Xixian, there are three stars arranged north and south, called "Faxing," which governs matters of atonement. Northeast of Fang, near the Gouqian star, there is a star called "Jianbi," which oversees the passes.
The Celestial Market, composed of twenty-two stars, is located in the northeast of the Mansion of Rooms and the Mansion of Hearts. It governs the weighing of importance and the gathering of people. Some refer to it as the Celestial Flag Enclosure, primarily responsible for matters of execution. The stars of the Celestial Market are numerous and bright, indicating a bountiful harvest; few stars signify a poor yield. If Mars stays in the Celestial Market, disloyal subjects will face execution. Another belief states that if the Angry Star (Jiao Xiu) remains in the Celestial Market, it will be the subjects who kill the monarch. If a comet sweeps through the Celestial Market, it signifies a relocation of the capital or a change in the market's location. If a guest star enters the Celestial Market, a large-scale war will ensue; if the guest star departs, a noble will die. The six stars at the center of the Celestial Market, near the Winnowing Basket Mansion, are known as the "Market Tower and Market Office," responsible for market prices and regulations. Among these six stars, the positive stars represent money, while the negative stars represent jewelry and gemstones. If these stars behave unusually, divination is conducted based on their respective domains. The four northern stars in the Celestial Market are known as the Heavenly Bushel, responsible for weights and measures. The two northwest stars of the Heavenly Bushel are known as the Market Stalls, overseeing the trade of treasures and gemstones. The two stars on the left inner side of the market gate are called the Carriage Stalls, in charge of the area where many merchants gather. Another star in the Celestial Market is known as the Imperial Throne, located in the center of the Celestial Market, to the west of the Waiting Star, symbolizing the imperial court. The Imperial Throne star shines brightly, indicating good fortune for the emperor and the smooth implementation of government decrees; if it is dim and faint, it signifies bad omens, often resulting in calamities for high officials. Another star, known as the Waiting Star, located northeast of the Imperial Throne, oversees the observation of yin and yang changes. A bright and large Waiting Star signifies a powerful minister and the submission of foreign nations; if the Waiting Star is small and weak, the nation will remain stable; if it disappears, it signifies the monarch's potential downfall; if it shifts, it indicates that the monarch is insecure.
The Eunuch Four Stars are located in the southwest of the Emperor's seat, symbolizing those who serve the monarch and handle the punishment of offenders. If these stars are dim, it is a good omen; if they are bright, it is a bad omen, foretelling disasters for the eunuchs. The Dipper Five Stars are located south of the Eunuch stars, governing measures and standards. If the Dipper Five Stars are pointing upwards, there will be inconsistencies in weights and measures across the realm; if they are pointing downwards, there will be a bountiful harvest. The Minister Two Stars are located in the southeast of the Emperor's seat, symbolizing the royal ministers. If a comet hovers near the Minister Two Stars, or if these stars dim, trouble will arise for the ministers. If a guest star lingers near the Minister Two Stars and moves, there will be upheaval among the emperor's relatives; if a guest star lingers near the Minister Two Stars, a noble person will pass away. The Ancestor Two Stars are located to the east of the Guarding Stars, symbolizing the royal family and serving as the emperor's loyal blood relatives and courtiers. If a guest star lingers near the Ancestor Stars, the royal family will experience discord. In the northeast, there are two stars called Silk Measure, and another two stars called Slaughterhouse, each presiding over their respective domains.
The Heavenly River Four Stars are located north of the Tail Constellation, governing the lunar cycles. If the Heavenly River Four Stars are incomplete, river crossings, waterways, and passes across the realm will become impassable. If the Heavenly River stars are bright and shaking, floods or large-scale conflicts will ensue; if the Heavenly River stars are irregular, horses will become expensive. If Mars hovers near the Heavenly River stars, a new king will ascend the throne. If a guest star enters the Heavenly River stars, the river channels will be severed.
It is said that in the sky, there are eight stars called Tianlao, located to the west of the handle of the Southern Dipper constellation. This serves as a gatekeeper. There are also six stars called Jianxing, located to the north of the Southern Dipper, also known as Tianqi, which is an important pass in the sky. They are in charge of planning major events, the war drums of armies, and the celestial warhorses. The two stars in the south represent the celestial warehouses, the two stars in the middle represent the marketplaces and the armory, and the two stars above symbolize flagpoles. Between the Southern Dipper and Jianxing, there is the Avenue of Three Lights. If these stars are restless, the people on earth will suffer. If the moon's halo covers them, dragons will appear, and cattle and horses will get sick. If the moon and the other five planets invade them, the ministers will scheme against each other, and subordinates will plot treason; it will also lead to blocked passes, causing major floods. The four stars in the southeast are known as the Dog Kingdom, representing the Xianbei, Wuhuan, and Wujun countries. If Mars stays there, there will be chaos among the foreigners; if Venus retrogrades and stays there, that kingdom will descend into chaos; if a guest star invades or stays there, there will be notorious bandits, and the king could also be at risk. The two stars north of the Dog Kingdom are known as Tianji, in charge of the changes in time.
Tianbian Jiuxing is located north of the Jianxing star, is responsible for the officials in charge of the market, overseeing market stalls and commodity registration, and can predict market prices based on the brightness of the stars. A bright star is a good omen. If a comet invades or stays there, the price of rice will soar, and prisoners will rebel. The He Gu and Qi Jiu stars are north of the Qian Niu star, representing the heavenly war drums, overseeing the military drums and arsenal. Some say these represent the emperor's three generals, with the largest star in the middle being the General, the leftmost one as the Left General, and the rightmost one as the Right General. The left star is located in the south, used to guard passes and defend against external enemies, predicting war and conquest. The flag represents the banner of the heavenly drum, used as a symbol of the army. The leftmost nine stars are positioned to the left of the drum; the He Gu star is bright and upright, a bright yellow color, signifying good fortune; if dim, there will be military disasters. This star is associated with the prices of warhorses; any disturbance could lead to war. If the star position is bent, the general will make mistakes and lose advantage. If the flag star is ominous, great chaos will ensue. At the ends of the flag, there are two stars on each end, north and south, called Tian Fu; Fu is the drumstick. If the stars are dim, it may result in errors in timekeeping. If He Gu and Tian Fu are aligned properly, they all pertain to war drums.
These five stars of Li Zhu, in the north of Xunü, represent the hidden palace of Xunü, the feminine star. If the star itself is favorable but the harem is in disarray, another star must be causing the disruption, and the harem is bound to face issues.
In the northern sky, there are two stars known as Si Ming, which governs rewards and punishments, as well as the ability to avert disasters; further north, two stars named Si Lu can be found, which can increase lifespan and fortune, hence they are located north of the Six Ancestor Stars; even further north are two stars called Si Wei, which, if they encounter problems, can lead to arrogance and indulgence, ultimately resulting in downfall; the last two stars, known as Si Fei, govern the law but are often swayed by personal interests.
North of Li Zhu, five stars known as Hu Gua represent schemes and intrigues, as well as the harem and food supplies. When they shine brightly, the harvest is abundant; when they appear dim, the harvest is poor, and the harem suffers misfortunes. If there are no issues, yet abnormalities arise, mountains will shake, and floods will come to the valleys.
Adjacent to them are five stars known as Bai Gua, responsible for agricultural production. There are also the Tianjin Nine Stars, which serve as a bridge connecting all directions. If any one of these stars falters, transportation will be thrown into disarray. If the Tianjin Nine Stars shine brightly yet remain restless, war will break out, resulting in countless deaths and widespread chaos; if they appear dim and flicker, horses will die in large numbers. If the Tianjin Nine Stars disappear, floods will wreak havoc, leading to the rise of water bandits.
To the east near the river, there are seven stars called the Chariot Office, which govern carriages and officials. Southeast of the Chariot Office, there are five stars called Renxing, which stabilize the populace and bring distant people to obedience. Some say it is also called the Sleeping Star, which prevents promiscuity. To the south of Renxing are three stars, and further southeast are four stars called Mortar and Pestle, which manage military supplies. If other stars enter this region, war will break out, and the grain from across the country will be requisitioned.
North of Tianjin, there are four stars arranged like a scale, called Xizhong, who was the ancient official responsible for carriages and horses.
There are twenty-two stars in the sky called Tengshe, located north of Ying Shi. The Tengshe star governs the aquatic insects. If this star shines particularly brightly, it is not a good omen, signifying unrest; if a guest star approaches it, it will surely lead to floods and poor harvests.
Next, let's talk about the five Wangliang stars, which are located to the north of Kui Su and within the Milky Way, representing the emperor's carriage and officials during the emperor's travels. Among them, four stars are called "Tiansi," like four celestial horses drawing a chariot; beside them is a star called Wangliang, also known as Tianma. If the Wangliang star shifts, it signifies galloping horses and a flurry of carriages everywhere; some also say this Wangliang star is called "Wangliangliang," which is the bridge in the sky, governing wind, rain, and waterways, and is sometimes used for divining the fortune of bridges. If the Wangliang star shifts, it means war will occur and may also signal that horses are likely to become ill. If a guest star approaches it, then the bridge will become impassable.
In front of Wang Liangxing, there is another star called "Ce," which is the whip of Wang Liang's chariot and represents the emperor's charioteer. If this "Ce" star moves to the back of the horse, it is called "Cema," meaning that the horses are everywhere.
Next are the six stars of the Ge Dao, in front of Wang Liangxing, like a flying road, extending from the Purple Palace to the Milky Way, which is the road that immortals ride. Some say that the Ge Dao stars are in charge of the road, the route the emperor takes to other palaces for leisure. Others say that the Ge Dao stars can ward off disasters and absolve guilt. Some say it is also called Wang Liangqi or Zi Gongqi, a symbol used for banners, and it is highly taboo for it to shake because it is a flag star, used by the army.
South of the Ge Dao stars, there is another star called Fulu, a side road star that can be used as a backup road when the Ge Dao stars are broken. Some say it is also called Taifu, in charge of wind and rain, representing attendants.
Finally, north of the Dongbi star, there are ten stars called Tianjiu, the official office responsible for managing horses, similar to modern-day relay stations, tasked with transmitting orders, setting up relay stations, traveling day and night, swiftly transmitting messages, like racing against a timer, very fast.
The twelve constellations in the sky are called Tianjiangjun, north of the Lou constellation, in charge of the army. The largest star in the middle is the grand marshal of the heavens; the other small stars are the soldiers of the army. When the grand marshal star trembles, it signals that war is imminent, and the grand marshal is going to war; if the small stars are not aligned, it also indicates an outbreak of war. A star in the south is called Junnanmen, responsible for the movements of the army.
The star Tai Ling has eight stars, to the north of the Wei Constellation. Ling means "tomb" or "grave." The tongue-like curve in the Tai Ling star is called Ji Jing, which is responsible for significant funerals. If the central star in Ji Jing disappears, there will be funerals in the vassal states, the common people will fall ill, wars will break out, and food will be hoarded; if the Ji Jing star diminishes, food will be scarce. If this star operates normally, it indicates the construction of civil engineering projects. The central star of Tai Ling is known as Ji Shi; if this star shines brightly, it signifies many deaths.
The star Tian Chuan has nine stars, located to the north of Tai Ling, in the Yellow River. It is also called Zhou Xing, overseeing ferry crossings, addressing transportation issues, and managing flood and drought disasters. If Tian Chuan is not in the Han River Basin, ferry crossings and rivers will be blocked. If the four central stars of Tian Chuan shine evenly, there will be peace in the world; if uneven, wars or funerals will occur. The appearance of a comet in Tian Chuan heralds major floods and wars. The central star in Tian Chuan is called Ji Shui, used to predict floods.
The two stars to the west of the Mausoleum Constellation are called Tian Jie, the passage for the sun, moon, and stars, overseeing the conditions at the passes and bridges. The star to the west of Tian Jie is called Yue. The Juan She constellation features six stars to the north, regulating speech and used to assess treachery and slander. If Juan She's shape is curved, it is considered auspicious; if it appears straight and turbulent, disputes will arise. The central star in Juan She is called Tian Chan, overseeing shamans and healers.
The Five Chariots Star consists of five stars, and the Three Pillars Star includes three stars: one called Sanquan, one called Xiu, and one called Qi, all located to the north of the Big Dipper. The Five Chariots Star is the chariot house of the Five Emperors, the place where the Five Emperors sit, which governs the five armies of the Emperor, as well as overseeing the harvests of the five grains. The largest star in the northwest is known as the Heavenly Storehouse, which oversees the planet Venus and also governs the Qin state; a star in the northeast is called the Prison, which governs the Chen star (辰) and also oversees the Yan and Zhao states; a star in the east is called the Heavenly Granary, which governs the Jupiter star and also oversees the Lu and Wei states; a star in the southeast is called the Star of the Minister of Works, which governs the Filling star and also oversees the Chu state; a star in the southwest is called the Noble Star, which governs the Mars star and also oversees the Wei state. If any of these five stars change, divination will be conducted based on the regions they govern to predict good or bad fortune. If the Five Chariots Star shines evenly and brightly, maintaining a constant size, it foretells peace. If the Emperor holds a ritual to worship the deities of Heaven and Earth, then the Five Chariots Star and the Three Pillars Star will shine evenly and brightly. The center of the Five Chariots Star contains five stars known as the Heavenly Flow. South of the Heavenly Flow Star are three stars known as the Salty Pool, referring to a fish pond. If the moon and the five stars enter the Heavenly Flow Star, wars will erupt, roads will be impassable, and the world will descend into chaos, resulting in dynastic upheaval. If the Salty Pool Star shines brightly, dragons will fall from the sky and perish, fierce beasts and wolves will harm people, similar to the onset of war.
Once upon a time in the heavens, there were many stars, and they were not placed there haphazardly; each represented events on Earth. Take the "Five Chariots and Six Stars," called "The Lords," which can indicate the rise and fall of feudal states. Then there's the "Western Five Stars," known as "Li Shi," which indicates that if a wandering star, such as Venus, appears nearby, it foretells war. The "Northern Eight Stars," called "Eight Valleys," oversee the harvest of the five grains; if one star disappears, it signifies a poor harvest. The "Heavenly Gate Star," located south of the "Five Chariots," is also known as "Heavenly Door," through which the sun and moon pass; it oversees border matters and governs the opening and closing of borders. If the "Horn of Misfortune" star appears, it indicates military disasters; if the five stars move to its vicinity, it could mean the demise of numerous dignitaries.
To the east, there is the "Eastern Well," with four stars in front known as "Watchers of Anomalies," which specifically observe the sun, moon, and stars in the sky, as well as any anomalies among birds, beasts, and plants on the ground. If a wise ruler sees these omens, they will quickly cultivate virtue and gather blessings to prevent disasters. The "Watchers of Anomalies" are followed by nine stars in the northwest called "Seated Flags," representing the hierarchy of rulers and their subjects. To the west of "Seated Flags," there are four stars called "Heavenly High," representing lofty terraces that overlook distant vistas. To the west of "Heavenly High," there is a star called "Heavenly River," tasked with watching for any demons or monsters causing mischief in the mountains and forests. The "Southern River" and "Northern River" each have three stars, flanking the "Eastern Well." "Heavenly High" is also referred to as the heavenly gate, governing passes and bridges. The "Southern River" is also known as "Southern Garrison," "Southern Palace," "Yang Gate," "Yue Gate," and "Authority Star," which governs fire. The "Northern River" is also called "Northern Garrison," "Northern Palace," "Yin Gate," "Hu Gate," and "Balance Star," which governs water. The sun, moon, and five stars typically traverse between these two rivers; if these two rivers are turbulent, it indicates that China will face turmoil. The three stars of the "Southern River" are also called "Gate Mound," representing the sights beyond the palace gates.
"The Five Sovereigns" are five stars located to the north of the "Eastern Well," responsible for assessing and selecting talent, reminding people to be cautious of misfortune. They also oversee the balance of yin and yang, monitor gains and losses, and even represent the thoughts of the emperor. These "Five Sovereigns" can also be interpreted as: Imperial Preceptor, Imperial Friend, Three Dukes, Imperial Scholar, and Grand Astrologer, who often advise the emperor. If these five stars are bright and moist, the realm will be peaceful; if they are dim and dull, disaster is imminent. The three stars south of the "Five Sovereigns" are called "Heavenly Goblet," overseeing the royal diet; the star "Accumulated Fire" located to the east of "Accumulated Water" is in charge of the royal kitchen; the four stars of "Water Level" east of the "Eastern Well" oversee water resources. If a guest star appears next to Mercury or Mars, trouble will arise, and floods will occur nationwide.
In the sky, there are seventeen stars called the Xuanyuan Seventeen Stars, located north of the Big Dipper's seven stars. Xuanyuan is the god of the Yellow Emperor, transformed into a yellow dragon. It represents the head of the harem, representing the imperial concubines. One star is called Dongling, also known as the Power Star, in charge of thunderstorms; the southernmost star symbolizes the empress; the star north of it represents an imperial concubine; the star further north represents a general; the remaining stars are concubines. The smaller star to the south represents female officials; the star on the left represents the minority, the family of the junior empress; the star on the right represents the majority, the family of the dowager empress. These stars are best when they are yellowish, small, and bright.
To the right of the Xuanyuan star, there are three stars to the south called the Wine Banner, the banner of the wine official, in charge of palace banquets and dining. If all five stars move to the Wine Banner, there will be grand feasts throughout the country, with numerous rewards of wine, meat, and goods bestowed upon the nobles and royal family. South of the Wine Banner, there are two stars called Heavenly Phenomenon, representing the Chancellor. To the west of the Xuanyuan star, there are four stars called the Beacon, representing border watchtowers and alerts.
To the north of the bright star, there are four stars known as Neiping. Further west, in the Taiwei Constellation, there are four stars called Shaowei, symbolizing the status of scholars. Some say they are the emperor's aides or officials of the imperial court, while others say they are in charge of the palace gates. The southernmost star represents the recluse, the second star represents the counselor, the third star represents the doctor, and the fourth star represents the master. If these four stars appear large and yellow, it means there are many virtuous scholars. If the moon and the five stars come here to cause a conflict, the empress and the recluse will face misfortune, and the prime minister will have to be replaced. To the south, four stars known as Changyuan oversee the borders and the northern ethnic minorities. If Mars comes here, the northern ethnic minorities will invade the Central Plains; if Venus comes here, the nine ministers will engage in plots and schemes.
