The so-called "demon star" is formed from the energies of the five elements and the transformations of the five stars. Its appearance in any direction certainly signals impending disaster for that place. Based on the day it appears and its color, one can predict which country will experience fortune or misfortune. If it appears in a morally decayed country or a region of collapsed etiquette, it certainly signals military disasters, famine, drought, and plague.
It is also said that the shapes of the demon star vary when it appears, but the disasters it brings are equally severe. Generally speaking, the demon star does not appear for more than a year; if it appears for three years, it is certain that a country will perish, and cities will suffer massacres. When a ruler dies, chaos follows, soldiers roam everywhere, dying on the battlefield, with corpses piling up like mountains. The disaster does not end there; floods, military disasters, famine, and plagues will continue to arise. Furthermore, the larger the demon star, the more severe the disaster, and the longer it lasts; the smaller it is, the milder the disaster, and the shorter its duration.
- If it measures three to five feet long, the disaster lasts for a hundred days;
- five feet to one zhang, it lasts for a year;
- one zhang to three zhang, it lasts for three years;
- three zhang to five zhang, it lasts for five years;
- five zhang to ten zhang, it lasts for seven years;
- and over ten zhang, it lasts for nine years.
Careful observation shows that these disasters will indeed come to pass.
Comets, often referred to as "broom stars," have a root that resembles a star and a tail that looks like a broom. Some are only a few inches long, while others can span the sky. The appearance of a comet signifies impending war and floods. It mainly symbolizes the elimination of the old and the welcoming of the new. Comets come in five colors, each associated with the energies of the five elements in specific directions. Historical records state that comets themselves do not emit light; they shine by reflecting sunlight. Therefore, when they appear in the evening, they point east, and when they appear in the morning, they point west, also changing direction according to the sun's position in the north or south. The brightness of a comet fluctuates between bright and dim, sometimes long and sometimes short, and wherever its light reaches, disasters will befall.
Let's talk about the Bo Star; it is a type of comet. Comets point in one direction, while the light of the Bo Star radiates in all directions. The Bo Star, that is to say, it looks very strange, is an omen of doom. Either major chaos will occur domestically, or a large-scale war will break out abroad, with countries conspiring and plotting against each other, which is sure to result in great harm. Yanzi once said: "Your Majesty, if you do not change your ways, the Bo Star will appear; why fear a comet?" From this it can be seen that the disaster brought by the Bo Star is even more serious than that brought by comets. Legend has it that the essence of Jupiter has turned into six star formations: Tianbo, Tianqiang, Tianhua, Tianchong, Guohuang, and Fandeng. Let's start with Tianbo (天棓), also known as Juexing or Tiange. It looks like a star, pointed at one end and about four zhang long. This star governs the failures of wars and intense conflicts. It is also said that when Tianbo appears, the country will be in trouble, so it’s best not to act rashly, especially regarding war. Some believe that within three months of its appearance, an army is bound to be defeated, and cities will fall. Another saying is that when Tianbo appears, it indicates that women are in power, and the essence of this star represents those in power. Next is Tianqiang (天枪), which dominates capture and suppression. Some say it drags clouds like a cow, others say it carries clouds like a horse, and some say it is like a long spear, sharp on both sides and several zhang long. Tianchan (天搀), similar to Tianqiang, is also pointed at one end and one zhang long. Then there is Tianhua (天猾), which presides over chaos. Some say that if rulers indulge in arrogance and extravagance, defy divine will, and harm the populace, Tianhua will appear.
Let's talk about Tian Chong. It resembles a person, dressed in blue, with a red head, standing still. It governs the loss of status. Some believe that the appearance of Tian Chong will lead ministers to conspire and the army to revolt. Another saying is that Tian Chong clutches the North Star, weeping before the emperor, as a bloody mist spreads across the land, filled with grievances! Next is the Guo Huang star. It is said that when the Ji star disperses, it transforms into the Guo Huang star. The Guo Huang star is very large, red, resembling the South Pole Old Man star. It governs the eradication of evil, along with internal strife and disasters. Its appearance signifies the onset of war and chaos in the realm. It is said to hover just one or two feet above the ground, resembling a torch. (In later guest stars, there is also a star called Guo Huang, sharing the same name but bearing different omens.) Lastly, there is the Fan Deng star, ruling over rebellion and division, both being the essence of the Lesser Yang constellation, similar to the Si Tu star, belonging to the region of the Azure Dragon Seven Mansions. If someone rebels, or becomes tyrannical, harming the people, resulting in political blunders during the spring, then the Fan Deng star will appear at that time. In summary, these six star patterns are all connected to the battles of kings. Speaking of the Yinghuo star, its essence shifts, giving rise to the phenomena of Xi Dan, Chi You Qi, Zhao Ming, Si Wei, and Tian Chan. First, let's talk about Xi Dan, also referred to as Zhao Dan, which is said to signify national weakness. Another saying is that when Xi Dan appears in the sky, stretching a hundred feet like a boat paddle, it foretells that the prime minister will be killed.
Next is the Chi You flag; some say it is formed by the scattering of a rotating star, while others say it is caused by the movement of five stars. It looks like a comet, twisting and curling, shaped like a flag. Another belief holds that if the sky is clear and a red cloud suddenly appears, that signifies the Chi You flag; or, the Chi You flag resembles a winnowing fan, approximately two zhang long, with a star at the end; or, when a country is in turmoil and malevolent forces gather, there will be yellow-white clouds like tall bamboo forests, referred to as the Chi You flag, predicting that the rebellious country will be suppressed. Some believe that when the emperor is on the verge of anger, the Chi You flag will appear; or when a tyrannical king is about to be overthrown, the Chi You flag will similarly appear; there is also a belief that its original form resembled a star, but later became twisted, like a flag, two to three zhang long. The manifestation of such an omen indicates that the king is mobilizing troops for battle, with conflict erupting on all fronts; or that a significant disaster is imminent for the country.
Next is Zhaoming, which is said to be the essence of gold. Some say it is formed by the splitting of a red comet. If Zhaoming's light fades, it resembles Venus, with seven rays, signaling the rise of a dominant power. Another theory is that Zhaoming is formed by the dispersal of the Ji star; or that a star appears in the west, appearing about six yards above the ground, shining brightly, shaped like Venus, constantly moving; upon close observation, it is red. This star is referred to as the wild star of the west, known as Zhaoming. Its appearance heralds the outbreak of war, and when it appears, funerals will follow; if it appears in the south, western countries will lose territory. Some say Zhaoming resembles Venus, but it remains stationary, indicating that a virtuous person will rise. There's also a belief that a large, white star with horns appears in the west; when seen from below, this is called Zhaoming, formed from the essence of gold. Its appearance signals the onset of war. If it remains in the position of Fang, the country will experience funerals, and even a tragic massacre could happen. When Zhaoming falls, it transforms into a celestial dog; wherever it lands, fierce wars will break out.
Furthermore, regarding the Star of Siwei, some say it is formed from the scattering of the Si Star (机星), while others claim it is created from the gases of a white comet. The movement of the Siwei Star is stable, indicating many internal conflicts in the country. Some also say the Siwei Star is large, hairy, and has two horns; or that it resembles the Morning Star, often on the move and appearing red upon close observation. When the Siwei Star appears, strong nations will prosper, signifying a looming threat to powerful feudal lords. Others say that the appearance of the Siwei Star signals the ruler's loss of virtue; after eight years, heroes will rise, and the emperor will lose his kingdom due to injustice, while capable ministers will support a virtuous monarch. Another viewpoint is that the appearance of the Siwei Star leads to mutual slaughter among the lower states. Some claim that the Siwei Star appears in the due west, is a celestial phenomenon from the west, about six zhang away from the ground, large and white, resembling the Morning Star. One interpretation is that its appearance will lead to war and the rise of strong nations; another suggests that the appearance of the Siwei Star is an ominous sign of impending war, which is highly unfavorable.
Finally, there is the Tianchan Star, which is small, white, and often on the move, referred to as the Chan Star or the Zhan Star, foretelling violence and punishment. Some also say that when the Tianchan Star appears, women will hold power but will eventually be replaced by men. Another interpretation is that the appearance of the Tianchan Star will lead to mutual slaughter below, resulting in war and famine, with barren lands and piles of white bones. Others say that the appearance of the Tianchan Star will lead to rebellion in the country; another viewpoint is that it is the essence of the sun, appearing in the region of the Seven Mansions of the Red Bird, signaling conspiracy, tyranny, and the ruler's loss of authority in summer.
It is said that strange celestial phenomena have appeared in the sky, which the ancients referred to as the "Essence of the Filling Stars," transforming into various ominous stars that signal disasters. Among them, the most significant are nine types:
1. Five Remnants
2. Six Thieves
3. Prisoner Han
4. Great Pen
5. Zhaoxing
6. Chuliu
7. Fuxing
8. Xunshi
9. Jijiu
Let's start with the "Five Remnants." Some say it is the scattering of the rotating celestial bodies, while others say it is the scattering of the comet-like star. In any case, it symbolizes destruction and decay. There are also interpretations that the "Five Remnants" are the result of changes in the five elements, originating from the East, and are an abnormal manifestation of wood energy. Ancient texts record that the Five Remnants star appears in the true east, like the morning star, six to seven zhang above the ground, large and white, foretelling disaster and death. Some say it is six zhang above the ground, large and red, and upon closer inspection, it reveals a blue interior. Another interpretation describes the star as having a blue halo around it, resembling hair, somewhat resembling the Year Star; its appearance will lead to large-scale wars and also indicates that there will be funerals occurring below. If it appears in the north, the eastern countries will lose territory. In short, the appearance of the Five Remnants star indicates that the emperor will face urgent military affairs, and the surrounding tribes will be restless, making the situation extremely critical.
Next is the "Six Thieves." It represents the abnormality of the five elements' energy in the south, with some interpreting it as a mutation of fire energy. Ancient texts record that the Six Thieves star appears in the south like a comet, six zhang above the ground, red, moving continuously, and upon closer inspection, it emits a glow, somewhat like the wandering star. Its appearance signifies war and national turmoil, and there will also be funerals occurring below. If it appears in the east, the southern countries will lose territory. There are also records stating that the Six Thieves star appears directly in the south, six zhang above the ground, large and red, moving continuously, and shining brightly.
Then there is the "Prison Han," also referred to as "Salty Han." Some say it is the scattering of the power star's energy, while others say it is an abnormal manifestation of the five elements' energy in the north, a mutation of water energy. The Prison Han star displays a blue hue with a hint of red, and below it are three comets darting about, foretelling that the king may be pursued or assassinated. Ancient texts record that the Prison Han star appears in the north, six zhang above the ground, large and red, moving continuously, and upon closer inspection, it has a dark bluish hue inside, somewhat like the morning star. Its appearance signifies war, and there will be funerals occurring below. If it appears in the west, the northern countries will lose territory. It is said that when the Prison Han star appears to move, the feudal lords will be thrown into a panic, and its appearance foretells that treachery and deceitful events are imminent.
"Dabian" governs riots and clashes; "Zhaoxing" signifies the downfall of a nation; "Chu Liu" will cause chaos in the world, with rulers fleeing everywhere, or it suggests that rulers will have to confront the problem with no way to escape; "Fu Xing" appears in the southeast, shaped like fennel (an ancient plant), and wherever it appears, disaster will follow.
The star "Xun Shi Star" is said to be the dispersal of the pivot star, or the changes in the five stars, or evil energy, or even the incarnation of Chiyou. There are also claims that it appears beside the Big Dipper, like a rooster, dark green when angry, calm like a tortoise. Some say it is formed by the splitting of a yellow comet. It represents a new beginning, taking the shape of a rooster. With yang in the earth and a connection to white, its essence resembles that of a rooster, making it a symbol of establishing rule. Its appearance heralds the rise of a sage ten years later, changing dynasties. It also heralds war, turmoil, and disaster; it is certain that kings will be overthrown and treacherous officials will rise, with people displaced, corpses littering the ground, and even cannibalistic tragedies occurring. Rebels will rise, armies will take up arms, and vassals will be cruel. It is said that by observing the Five Chariots Star, Tianjun, and Tianku Star on the day of Wuxu, if anomalies are found, it is the Xun Shi Star. Resembling a bird with a mouth, its appearance signifies large-scale war, with those attacking it dying in battle. However, some say that if it appears near the Big Dipper, it signals that a sage will be appointed by heaven, the Son of Heaven will enjoy longevity, and the king will be favored.
Finally, the appearance of the "Jijiu" star signifies that courtiers will seize power, or that courtiers will rebel against the monarch, leading to large-scale war. Some say it is the earth spirit, in the region of the Big Dipper's seven stars, governing the four directions, the position of Sikong; this star formation will manifest in the presence of traitors and tyrants.
Legend has it that the essence of the Venus star has scattered into eight distinct star formations: Tianchu, Tianju, Fuling, Dabai, Sijian, Tiangou, Tiancan, and Zuoqi.
First is the Tian Chǔ, which governs the prosperity and decline of livestock. Next is the Tian Zhù, which is responsible for disasters. Then there is the Fuling, which governs the emergence of slander. If the Fuling star appears, chaos will ensue, and the people will suffer. The Dàbài star, on the other hand, is responsible for war and conflict. Some say that the appearance of the Dàbài star heralds the triumph of schemes. The Sijian star, as the name suggests, oversees the emergence of malevolent entities.
Now, let's discuss the Tiangou star. Some say that it is formed by the convergence of five stars, appearing in the southwest, resulting from the gaseous interaction of Venus and Mars. Others say that the Tiangou star is said to have fur and is accompanied by a small comet resembling a dog, its appearance heralding conscription and suppression of bandits. There is also a belief that the appearance of the Tiangou star indicates strife among five generals. Some say that the Tiangou star is located in the northwest, extending three zhang, formed by the gaseous interaction of Mercury and Venus. Another belief is that the three large, white stars in the northwest are identified as the Tiangou star. If the Tiangou star is seen, it signifies that a large-scale war is imminent, famine could occur, and even cannibalism could take place. It is said that where the Tiangou star appears, fierce battles will erupt, armies will be defeated, generals will be killed, the fields will be strewn with corpses, blood will run like rivers, and the Tiangou star will devour this flesh and blood. These calamities may unfold within a year, lasting up to three years, depending on the country under which the Tiangou star appears, foretelling good and bad fortune. (The Tiangou star mentioned in later texts, although having the same name, carries slightly different meanings.)
Finally, there is the Star of Celestial Maim, which governs greed and cruelty. There is also the Star of the Sub Rising, whose appearance foretells that disaster may strike at any moment, with various signs of calamity already showing, as ministers will seize the king's power. Some say that the Star of the Sub Rising is the essence of the Lesser Yin, similar to the star of the Grand Marshal, located in the area of the seven mansions of the White Tiger, indicating that a rebellion will occur, rulers will be cruel, ultimately leading to a failed autumn harvest. The timing of these disasters, like that of the Dog Star mentioned earlier, can range from one to two or three years, and the disasters will come to pass.
Legend has it that the essence of the Morning Star is scattered into seven star patterns: the Star of Misguided Arrows, the Star of Broken Woman, the Star of Brushing Pivot, the Star of Destroying Treasures, the Star of Encircling Courtyards, the Star of Astonishing Principles, and the Great Star of Sacrifice. Let's start with the Star of Misguided Arrows. Some say it originates from the transformation of the Filling Star; others say it is formed by the scattering of the Mechanism Star; still others say that the Star of Misguided Arrows is generated by the fluctuations in the movements of the five stars, shaped like a bow. It looks like a huge meteor, gray-black in color, moving sinuously like a snake, appearing to have fur and eyes from a distance, several lengths of cloth long, shining in the sky. Its appearance heralds rebellion and the prospect of someone being shot. Some also say that the Black Comet will split to form the Star of Misguided Arrows. Misguided Arrows means shooting arrows. The appearance of the Star of Misguided Arrows means that a rebellious army is gathering, and the person marked for execution may also use rebellion to suppress the insurgency. Another theory is that if a ruler is oppressive and tyrannical, the Star of Misguided Arrows will appear. Another theory is that the Star of Misguided Arrows, like a meteor, appears with a tail and eyes, about the length of a yard of cloth, brilliantly suspended in the sky. Its appearance signals the onset of a large-scale war, with generals going to battle, bows and crossbows firing, likely lasting for three years. In short, wherever the Star of Misguided Arrows appears, it will invoke the world's wrath, a sign of destruction.
Next is the Broken Woman Star. If the Broken Woman Star appears, both the ruler and his ministers will be executed, which seems contradictory. Next is the Brush Handle Star. When the Brush Handle Star appears, the world will be thrown into turmoil and chaos. Others say that the Brush Handle Star governs the changing of seasons. The Destroy Star's appearance signifies collusion. Some also say that the Destroy Star heralds the outbreak of war. The Revolve Star's appearance heralds the rise of rebellion. The Astonish Star's appearance heralds the appointment of ministers. The Great Sacrifice Star's appearance heralds disaster. Others say that the Great Sacrifice Star's appearance also heralds an era of peace and prosperity. The essence of the Taiyin, which is the region of the Xuan Wu constellation, if rebellion or tyranny leads to the loss of the winter edict, then the consequences will be as predicted in the divination, and calamity will come true. Another belief is that the five star essences hidden in the waters of the pond, based on the crimes committed and the signs of deviant behavior, if subordinates imitate this behavior, they will be killed, which is a portent of doom. If these star signs enter the emperor's position, it heralds doom, and five hundred conspiracies will arise among the nobles.
Now let's talk about the Celestial Spear Star. The Celestial Spear Star, shaped like a comet's spear tip, heralds conflicts in the world. When conflicts arise, the Celestial Spear Star will manifest. The Candle Star, resembling Venus, does not move once it appears and will soon vanish. Some also say that three comets can be seen appearing alongside the main star. Where the Candle Star manifests, that city will face rebellion. Some also say that where the Candle Star shines, unrest will break out in the city. Another saying is that where the Candle Star appears, great thieves will emerge, but they will ultimately fail.
Speaking of the heavens, besides the familiar stars, there are some unusual stars that the ancients referred to as "demon stars." When they appear, it often signals that something significant is about to happen on earth.
First is the Pong Star, also known as the Wang Star. Some say it looks like a flickering light at night; sometimes you can see four or five of them, and other times just one or two. Some say it appears in the southwest direction, is several zhang long, with pointed ends, and disappears quickly after it appears. Others say it is yellow and white, about three feet wide. There is also a saying that the Pong Star resembles a tuft of cotton; when it appears, Taoist priests will gain fame, ordinary folks will find success, the world will be peaceful, and the harvests will be plentiful. However, some say that when the Pong Star appears near the Big Dipper, the lords will squabble over land, even leading to their destruction, and wars will break out. Moreover, it is said that within three years of its appearance, these predictions will come true. Another belief is that if the Pong Star appears in the Taiwei Constellation (an ancient star grouping), the emperor will establish a new king. There are indeed many interpretations of the "Pong Star"!
Next is the Chang Geng Star, which looks like a cloth draped in the sky; its appearance signals that war is on the horizon. Then there is the Si Tian Star, which appears in the four corners of the world, around six zhang off the ground, although some say it is four zhang, and others say it is large and red, only two zhang above the ground, appearing only at midnight. When the Si Tian Star shows up, war will break out within ten months. Some say that if this star appears in any of the four corners, war will occur in that direction.
Now let's talk about the Di Wei Zang Guang Star. This star represents the essence of the five elements, born from the earth's energy across the four seasons. Some say it is large and red, about two to three zhang above the ground, resembling the moon, and when it first shows up, it's referred to as the Di Wei Zang Guang. Another interpretation is that it appears in the four corners, looking about four zhang above the ground, red and yellow mixed, swaying gently, similar to the Si Tian Star; this star appearing near the center is called the Di Wei Zang Guang. If it appears in the northeast corner, there will be a great flood; in the southeast corner, there will be a severe drought; in the southwest corner, war will occur; and in the northwest corner, the world will descend into chaos with wars breaking out. Another belief is that when the Di Wei Zang Guang Star appears, those who do evil will perish, while those with virtue will prosper and thrive.
Then there is the Nü Bo Star, which is formed by the convergence of the energies of the five planets, appearing in the northeast. It is a combination of the energies of water and wood. Some say that when a star three zhang in length appears in the northeast, it is called the Nü Bo Star, and its appearance signifies that there will be wars in the world or major funerals. Another saying is that when a large star appears in the northeast, called the Nü Bo Star, it foretells significant funerals in the world.
Next is the Thief Star, also formed by the convergence of the energies of the five planets, appearing in the southeast. It is a combination of the energies of fire and wood. Some say that when a star three zhang in length appears in the southeast, it is called the Thief Star, and its appearance means that there will be many thieves in the world, with bandits everywhere.
Finally, there is the Accumulated Tomb Star, also formed by the convergence of the energies of the five planets, appearing in the northwest. It is a combination of the energies of metal and water. Some say that when a star three zhang in length appears in the southwest, it is called the Accumulated Tomb Star, and its appearance signifies that there will be frost in the world, wars will break out, crops will fail, and the people will suffer from hunger.
First paragraph:
The tenth strange star phenomenon is called the "Duan Star." This "Duan Star" is formed by the gathering of the energies of the five planets (metal, wood, water, fire, earth) and will appear in the four corners of the sky. In these four corners, there will also appear a large red star, which, upon closer inspection, has a yellow center and moves around. Its length can reach four zhang. This represents the energy of earth, which will influence the changes of the seasons, hence it is called the "Four Corners Duan Star." When this star appears, it signifies that a large-scale war is about to occur.
Second paragraph:
The eleventh is called "Huncang." In the northwest direction, a star will appear, surrounded by green and red auras, with red in the center and green on the outside; this is "Huncang." Its appearance means that war will break out in the world, and the political landscape will shift. Those who rise up first will prosper, while those who rise up later will perish. If this star rises to a height of ten zhang, the world will be chaotic for one year; if it rises to a height of twenty zhang, there will be chaos for two years; if it rises to a height of thirty zhang, there will be chaos for three years.
Third paragraph:
The twelfth is called the "Shen Star." In the northwest direction, a star will appear that appears to have two rings, called "Shanqin." The appearance of this star signifies that the vassal states will lose territory, especially in the northwest.
The thirteenth kind is called "White Star." It looks like a star, yet is not one; it has a shape reminiscent of a sliced melon, signifying victory in battle, so it is called "White Star." The appearance of "White Star" indicates that there will be a funeral for a male.
The fourteenth kind is called "Tu Chang." The "Tu Chang" star that appears in the northwest is surrounded by red and blue gases, foretelling disaster, where blue symbolizes water. When this star appears, there will be a great change in the world.
The fifteenth kind is called "Ge Ze," resembling a burning flame. Some describe the "Ge Ze Star" as having a yellow top and a white bottom, rising from the ground, broad at the base and tapering to a sharp tip. Its appearance means a bountiful harvest without the need for cultivation. Some also say that if there are no disasters in civil engineering, a powerful neighboring country will visit, likely within a year or two. Another belief is that the gas of the "Ge Ze" star is red like fire, burning fiercely in the center of the sky, with the same color above and below, stretching from east to west across the sky as if extending in the north-south direction, reaching a length of four to five li. This is the change of the planet Mars, its appearance signaling the outbreak of war, with corpses covering the ground and blood flowing like rivers, lasting for about three years.
The sixteenth kind is called "Gui Xie," it resembles a star, yet is not one; it looks like a cloud, but is not a cloud. Some claim it has two red comets ascending, topped with a gas-like covering, connecting to stars below. Its appearance signifies that a country will be annexed.
The seventeenth type is called "Mengxing." At night, red gas appears, floating around like military flags, varying in length, with most prevalent in the southwest. Some also call it "Knife Star," a sign of great chaos in the world. Others describe the sky as being filled with thin clouds, with reddish-yellow gas appearing, three feet long, appearing and disappearing, and soon disappearing. There are also those who say that when "Knife Star" appears, wars will break out, with battles and bloodshed everywhere. Another belief is that the sky is filled with thin clouds, with a total of eight streams of gas in all directions, pale in color, three feet long, flickering in and out.
Paragraph Nine: Han Dynasty's Jing Fang wrote a book called "Feng Jiao Shu," which includes a chapter called "Ji Xing Zhang," noting that the ominous stars appear alongside the moon, accompanied by colorful cloud-like gas, appearing on the days of the Five Yin, corresponding to the cloud-like gas produced by the five stars. "Han Jing Fang wrote 'Feng Jiao Shu,' which has 'Ji Xing Zhang,' recording that the ominous stars all appear next to the moon, each with five-colored square clouds, appearing on the days of the Five Yin, corresponding to the clouds produced by the five stars."
Tian Qiang Xing is born in the Ji constellation, Tian Gen Xing is born in the Wei constellation, Tian Jing Xing is born in the Xin constellation, Zhen Ruo Xing is born in the Fang constellation, Tian Yuan Xing is born in the Di constellation, Tian Lou Xing is born in the Kang constellation, and Tian Yuan Xing is born in the Zuo Jiao constellation; these stars are all associated with Sui Xing (Jupiter). They appear on the Jia Yin day, with two green items alongside them.
Tian Yin Xing is born in the Zhen constellation, Jin Ruo Xing is born in the Yi constellation, Guan Zhang Xing is born in the Zhang constellation, Tian Huo Xing is born in the Qi constellation, Tian Que Xing is born in the Liu constellation, Chi Ruo Xing is born in the Gui constellation, and Chi You Xing is born in the Jing constellation; these stars are all associated with Ying Huo (Mars). They appear on the Bing Yin day, with two red items alongside them.
Tian Shang Xing, Tian Fa Xing, Cong Xing, Tian Shu Xing, Tian Zhai Xing, Tian Fei Xing, and Jing Hui Xing are all associated with Zhen Xing (Saturn). They appear on the Wu Yin day, with two yellow items alongside them.
If a star is born in Canopus, the broom star is born in Ziwu, a comet is born in Pi, the bamboo comet is born in the Pleiades, a wall star is born in Stomach, a star is born in Rooftop, and a white star is born in Legs, all of these stars are born from Venus. They appear on the day of Gengyin, with two white objects on either side.
Tianmei is born in Wall, Tianpi is born in Room, Tiandu is born in Danger, Tianma is born in Void, Tianlin is born in Female, Tiangao is born in Ox, and Duanxia is born in Dipper; these stars are all born from Mercury. They appear on the day of Renyin, with two black objects beside them.
The thirty-five stars mentioned earlier are all generated by the five elements, appearing in the gaseous phenomena on either side of the moon, each with its own omen. Before these stars appear, they can be seen, and once they are seen, it signifies impending floods, droughts, wars, deaths, famines, and unrest, foreshadowing the destruction of the country, loss of territory, death of the king, defeat of the army, and killing of the generals.
In ancient times, five stars were known as guest stars, namely Zhoubo, Laozi, Wang Pengxu, Guohuang, and Wenxing. These five stars will appear in different regions of twelve countries, predicting good and bad luck according to their positions and constellations.
Zhoubo, very large, yellowish in color, shining brightly. If it appears, it signals war in that country, or funerals may follow, with famine throughout the country, and the common people will be forced to flee their homes. This is somewhat similar to the description of the auspicious star, but the results of divination are different. Laozi, bright and large, white in color, looks very gentle. Where it appears, there may be famine, disasters, or good things, or it may bring anger and sadness. When it appears frequently, it is often accompanied by large-scale wars, and rulers will also be worried. However, if the emperor decrees a general amnesty, the disasters may be averted.
The Wang Pengxu Star appears as a fluffy white mass, gently floating. Where it appears, there will be wars and funerals, and many people wearing white clothes will gather, signifying famine and death. There is also a belief that the Wang Pengxu Star can appear blue and shining brightly. Where it appears, the weather will be erratic, with severe droughts, crops failing to grow, poor harvests, and rampant locusts. The Guo Huang Star appears very large, with a yellow and white coloration, resembling horns. Its appearance heralds wars, national turmoil, potential floods or famine, rulers' disdain, and widespread illness among the populace. The Wen Star, large and white, appears to sway like the wind, often appearing in the four corners of the sky.
If it appears in the southeast, war will erupt, and generals will rally from the wilderness. If it appears in the northeast, large-scale wars will occur hundreds of miles away. The same goes for the northwest. If it appears in the southwest, that country will experience wars and funerals, and may also have floods and famine. There is also a saying that if the Wen Star appears in the southeast, it means that the great general is bound and unable to act; if it appears in the northeast, it foretells that corpses will be scattered within a thousand miles; if it appears in the west, it carries the same implication.
In short, depending on the region in which the guest star appears, if it lingers, predictions of fortune or misfortune are made based on its color. The bigger the star, the bigger the event; the smaller the star, the smaller the event. A yellow hue is considered a good omen, white indicates a funeral, blue indicates worry, black indicates death, and red indicates war. Based on these five colors for divination, predictions typically do not extend beyond three years. There is also a saying that when the guest star enters the inner and outer domains of the constellations, the nature of the matter is assessed based on the department and office it occupies. Its destination serves as the planning ground for the matter, and the countries under it will suffer calamities. The timing of the event is determined by the constellation in which it resides, and the interactions of the five elements signify the driving force behind the matter.
Ah, shooting stars, just like angels. We call the act of falling from the sky "流" (liú) and the act of flying upwards "飞" (fēi). We refer to a particularly large shooting star as "奔" (bēn), which signifies a specific type of shooting star. The size of a shooting star depends on the size of the corresponding event. If it produces a rumbling sound, it signifies anger. If it runs fast, the event will progress quickly; if it runs slowly, the event will progress slowly. A large, dim shooting star pertains to the common people; a small, shiny one concerns officials and nobility; a big and bright one signifies powerful and influential figures. If it flickers, it is a sign of bad people facing their downfall. A shooting star with a large front and a small tail indicates a troubling situation; if the front is small and the back is large, it means good things are coming. If it slithers like a snake, it signifies treachery. A shooting star that races by signifies something that won't return. If the shooting star is long, the event will last long; if it is short, the event will end quickly. War is likely to break out where a shooting star falls. If a shooting star suddenly appears in clear skies and lingers for a while, a fierce wind will sweep through, damaging homes and uprooting trees. If numerous small shooting stars scatter across the sky, it is a sign that common people will need to migrate. Shooting stars take on many shapes, leading to different divination interpretations. Now, I will briefly outline what ancient texts and the "Jingzhou Divination" record.
The tail of a shooting star can be about two or three zhang long, its light shooting straight up into the sky. The white ones are messengers from the monarchs, while the red ones are from the generals. Shooting stars emit a yellowish-white light, falling from the sky with a sound like a burning torch falling to the ground, causing wild chickens to call out. This signifies divine protection! Where shooting stars fall, the country will be safe and joyful, but floods may also follow. Shooting stars that are blue and red, known as "earth geese," foretell an impending war where they land. Shooting stars that are blue and red, measuring about two or three zhang long, referred to as "sky geese," are a symbol of elite troops. When a country sees this kind of shooting star, war is imminent, and generals must follow its direction. In short, shooting stars the size of a large water tank signify rebellion; the size of a peach suggests that someone is being dispatched on a mission. Shooting stars the size of a large jar, glowing with a reddish-black light and shaped like a bird's beak, known as "liang xing," foretell that war will erupt where they land, and the ruler is likely to lose his territory.
It is said that a type of flying star appears in the sky, as large as a big pottery jar or even a water vat, shining white light from behind, higher in the back and lower in the front, called Dunwan. In places where this star appears, many people often die, cities are breached, yet there is no great battle. There is also a type of flying star, also as large as a big pottery jar or water vat, with shining white light from behind, higher in the back and lower in the front, which shakes its head and sways up and down, called Jiangshi. In places where it falls, the people will go hungry. Another type of flying star, also that large, with shining white light from behind, but after the star disappears, the white light bends into a shape like a wheel, called Jiexian. In places where this star appears, people will kill each other to fight for titles and salaries, a phenomenon known as Zixiangzhishi.
There is another type of flying star, also as large as a big pottery jar or water vat, shining with white light, measuring several zhang in length, and after the star disappears, the white light transforms into falling clouds, called Dahua. In places where it falls, bloodshed and countless bones will be left behind. There is also another type of flying star, also that large, with white light at the back, slender and soft, able to reach over ten zhang, curvy and winding, called Tianxing, also known as Tianshi. In lands where this star appears, generals are granted land.
Next, let's talk about the "Tian Gou" (Heavenly Dog). It looks like a falling star, yellow in color, and it makes a sound. Where it falls, it resembles a dog; when it descends, it appears like a flame, burning fiercely, soaring into the sky, pointed at the top and rounded at the bottom, about the size of a few fields. Some claim this star has a furry appearance, with small comets nearby, and a shape resembling a dog below. Others say that when this star appears, it is of a red and white color, shining brightly, and after it falls, it becomes the Tian Gou. There is also a saying that meteors emit light that can illuminate a person's face, falling silently as if they have legs; this is called Tian Gou. Its color is white, with yellow inside, the yellow appearing like glowing embers. It signifies war and the suppression of rebels; in places where this star appears, there will be attacks from all sides, and within a thousand miles, armies will be defeated. Some say that this is five stars fighting and devouring each other, and wherever it passes, there will be bloodshed. The rulers of nations will lose land, wars will break out, and political power will change, requiring increased caution. (Other forms of divination are similar to the above.) There is also a star called "Ying Tou," which falls like a collapsing mountain; where it falls, armies will be destroyed, and blood will flow for thousands of miles. Some say that meteors falling during the day are called "Ying Tou."
Finally, let’s talk about signs of good fortune. One is called "Qing Yun," which looks like smoke but is not smoke, looks like clouds but is not clouds, lush and vibrant, drifting and swirling; this is Qing Yun, also known as Jing Yun. This is a sign of joy, a harbinger of peace and prosperity. Another is called "Chang Guang," which is red and resembles a dragon. It appears when a sage emerges or when an emperor dies.
The first omen is "Hong Yi," which resembles a rainbow next to the sun. This signifies impending internal strife, confusion among the people, a debauched ruler, treacherous ministers, the emperor being overshadowed by the empress or his concubines, or the ruler being obsessed with women, with many wives and concubines.
The second sign is the "yang cloud," resembling a dog, completely red, with a very long tail. This foretells that the ruler will face turmoil, the army will incur losses and may even face defeat. "The rainbow cloud signifies the presence of the sun. The chaos in battle confuses the spirit, leads to confusion in the heart, signifies internal debauchery, and schemes by ministers against the ruler, leading the emperor to neglect his consorts and causing wives to be unfaithful." "The yang cloud, resembling a dog, red with a long tail, foretells chaos for the ruler and losses for the army."
