Qi Men Dun Jia: Systematic 10-Step Analysis
A rigorous methodology for constructing and interpreting a Qi Men Dun Jia chart requires sequential attention to each plate layer. The following 10-step framework provides a structured approach used in professional practice.
The 10-Step Analysis Framework
- Establish the Time (定時): Determine the current or question time using the Chinese solar calendar. Identify the year, month, day, and two-hour period (時辰). This determines which of the 1080 time-based charts (pan) applies.
- Chart Type (選盤): Select Yin (陰) or Yang (陽) escape, and determine whether to use the Floating (轉盤) or Fixed (飛盤) method. Yang escape is used for most practical questions; Yin escape for hidden or covert matters.
- Locate the Earth Plate (布地盤): Place the Eight Gates in their base positions according to the season and chart type.
- Fly the Heaven Plate (布天盤): Position the Nine Stars according to the Jia Zi cycle and seasonal offset.
- Place the Eight Deities (布八神): Assign deities starting from the Zhi Fu (值符) position, following their fixed sequence.
- Identify the Jia Hidden Stems (定六甲): Map the six Jia groups (甲子, 甲戌, 甲申, 甲午, 甲辰, 甲寅) and the concealed Jia (隱遁甲) in the chart.
- Assess the Palace of the Matter (定事宮): Identify which palace governs the question or person being analyzed.
- Evaluate Gate-Star-Deity Combinations (門星神組合): The most important interpretive step. Read the interaction of the Gate, Star, and Deity in the relevant palace.
- Check for Special Formations (奇格): Look for auspicious formations (e.g., Three Wonders — Yi, Bing, Ding in correct palaces) and inauspicious formations (e.g., Cage, Network, Death Door active).
- Synthesize and Advise (綜合判斷): Combine all layers into a coherent reading, addressing the specific question with directional, timing, and strategic recommendations.
Gate Quality Reference
- Auspicious Gates (吉門): Life (生門), Rest (休門), Opening (開門)
- Neutral Gates (中性門): Injury (傷門), Obstruction (杜門), Scenery (景門)
- Inauspicious Gates (凶門): Death (死門), Fear (驚門)