Volume 1: Celestial Laws (Tong Shen Lun) · Chapter 5
Principle and Qi (Li Qi)
Attributed to Jing Tu (Song); commentary tradition by Liu Bowen (Ming)
Qi moves; principle follows it
The chapter warns against fixed rules. Principle is only how qi behaves when it behaves well; once qi moves, the pattern changes with it. So a chart that is rising calls for restraint and a chart that is declining calls for support — the same element can be an asset in one season and dead weight in another. Read the movement first, then decide whether to press or to yield.
Classical Verse & Annotated Translation
Line-by-line alignment between Classical Chinese and precise English translation.
理承气行岂有常，进兮退兮宜抑扬。
Note: 理：五行生克之所以然；气：其运行之势。常：定式。抑扬：抑其太过、扬其不及。全句谓命理无死法，须随气势之进退而消息之。
Principle follows where qi goes — how could it be fixed? When it advances, or when it retreats, hold it back or lift it up accordingly.
Does your natal chart carry this sacred energy?
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