In traditional Chinese metaphysics, the Twelve Longsheng (十二长生) is an important concept that describes the changes in a person's state at different stages of life. It not only involves the twelve states of the major periods (大运), but also closely relates to the annual flow (流年), influencing one's fortune in specific years. This article will explore in depth whether the Twelve Longsheng of the annual flow is related to the day stem (日干) and how to understand and apply this theory based on the day stem.
Definition and Application of the Twelve Longsheng
The Twelve Longsheng is a term in traditional Chinese metaphysics referring to the twelve different states a person experiences during different periods of life. These states not only reflect one's fortune in major periods but are also closely related to the annual flow, affecting the fortune in specific years. By observing the stars and the flow of energy, we can determine which state a person is in, thus predicting future trends.
The Relationship Between the Day Stem and the Twelve Longsheng
The day stem is used in traditional Chinese metaphysics to represent the heavenly stem of a person's birth day. It has a close relationship with the Twelve Longsheng. Depending on the day stem, the Twelve Longsheng can be divided into two categories: yang day stems and yin day stems. Yang day stems include Jia (甲), Bing (丙), Wu (戊), Geng (庚), and Ren (壬), while yin day stems include Yi (乙), Ding (丁), Ji (己), Xin (辛), and Gui (癸). The rule of fire and earth sharing the same palace tells us that Bing and Wu share the same palace, as do Ding and Ji, which helps us remember and apply the Twelve Longsheng.
Memory Methods for the Twelve Longsheng
One method of remembering the Twelve Longsheng is by dividing them according to the day stem. Yang day stems start from the "Lingguan" (临官) position and move clockwise, while yin day stems start from the "Lingguan" position and move counterclockwise. For example, Jia's "Lingguan" is in the year of the Tiger (寅), Bing and Wu's "Lingguan" is in the year of the Snake (巳), Geng's "Lingguan" is in the year of the Monkey (申), and Ren's "Lingguan" is in the year of the Pig (亥). For yin day stems, the "Lingguan" positions are respectively in the year of the Rabbit (卯), Horse (午), Rooster (酉), and Rat (子). Through this method, it becomes easier to remember and apply the Twelve Longsheng.
Memory Method for the Twelve Muku (墓库)
The Twelve Muku is a concept corresponding to the Twelve Longsheng. Their positions can be determined by the "Luwei" (禄位) of the day stem. For yang day stems, the "Luwei" moves 90 degrees to the right to reach the Muku. For yin day stems, the "Luwei" reaches the Muku by moving diagonally or turning 180 degrees to the right. This method helps us quickly find the position of the Muku and further understand the application of the Twelve Longsheng.
The Arrangement of the Twelve Longsheng in Annual Flow and Major Periods
The arrangement of the Twelve Longsheng differs between annual flow and major periods. For the annual flow, yang day stems are arranged in a clockwise direction, while yin day stems are arranged in a counterclockwise direction. In major periods, the arrangement depends on the combination of the day stem, year stem, and gender. By calculating the product of the day stem × year stem × male/female, we can determine whether it is arranged in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. For example, if the product is positive, it is arranged in a clockwise direction; if it is negative, it is arranged in a counterclockwise direction.
Through a detailed analysis of the definition of the Twelve Longsheng, the relationship between the day stem and the Twelve Longsheng, memory methods, and the arrangement of the Twelve Longsheng in the annual flow and major periods, we can gain a deeper understanding of this important concept in traditional Chinese metaphysics. It not only helps us predict a person's fortune during different periods but also provides a way to understand and apply traditional Chinese metaphysics. With this knowledge, we can better plan our future and grasp opportunities and challenges in life.
