When Heavenly Stem Ren (壬) is above Earthly Stem Ji (己), the Ren Serpent is punished by the Ji Earth. This Reversed Serpent Punishment (反吟蛇刑) is an inauspicious formation indicating impending great disaster. However, by following the flow, maintaining stillness, and avoiding rash actions, the calamity can be averted.
Formation Conditions
Heavenly Stem Ren (壬) + Earthly Stem Ji (己)
Explanation
Reversed Serpent Punishment refers to Heavenly Stem Ren (壬) above Earthly Stem Ji (己). Ren (壬) represents the Teng Snake (螣蛇), while Ji (己) represents the Earthly Gate (地户) or tomb earth. When Ren water encounters Ji earth, the earth restrains the water, and the serpent is trapped and punished by the earth. In its struggle, it is further devoured, hence the name Reversed Serpent Punishment. The 'Reversed' (反吟) aspect indicates that things will go contrary to one's wishes, and outcomes will be reversed: wanting speed leads to slowness, wanting success leads to failure, and the more effort applied, the stronger the backlash. Ancient texts state that a great disaster is imminent, but by following the flow and maintaining stillness, it can be averted. This single phrase reveals the core usage of this formation: it is truly inauspicious, but there are clear conditions for avoiding disaster, namely 'following' (顺) and 'stillness' (守). The principle behind this formation is that Ji earth obscures water, trapping Ren water's adaptability and agility. Forcing a struggle will only lead to deeper entanglement, like being stuck in a swamp; only by remaining still can one slowly extricate oneself. The severity of the inauspiciousness is significant but resolvable, unlike unresolvable chain-reaction inauspicious formations. This formation offers a way out; the key lies in whether the person is willing to cease their actions. If the palace where this formation occurs has auspicious gates and stars, the conditions for averting disaster are even broader, and a period of stillness can turn the page. If it encounters the Death Gate (死门) or White Tiger (白虎), then disaster is already on its way, and all aggressive actions must be immediately halted. Important note: Under this formation, the more someone urges you to take a gamble or a risk, the more vigilant you should be, as that is precisely where the disaster lies. If Ren falls into Emptiness (空亡), the disaster is often a false alarm, but the principle of maintaining stillness remains unchanged. The 'Reversed' (反吟) period usually resolves itself within one ten-day cycle; enduring it brings peace.
Categorized Judgments
Career and Official Position
There are hidden reefs in the workplace. The more you try to perform, the more mistakes you make. Aggressive job changes, starting a business, or speculative ventures are all sources of disaster at this time. Hold onto your current position, decline high-risk tasks, and stabilize your current work. Endure this period, and the situation will naturally reverse.
Wealth and Business
A precursor to significant financial loss. Leveraging, heavy positions, and debt-funded investments are most dangerous at this time. Be especially wary if someone tries to draw you into a scheme. Cash is king; scale back all aggressive positions. If already trapped, do not rush to recover losses; the more you struggle, the deeper the deficit.
Marriage and Relationships
Relationships are at risk of upheaval. Confrontations, marriage proposals, or tracking someone's whereabouts at this time will push things in the opposite direction. The other party's emotions are unstable; a cool-down period is best. Inquiries about reconciliation or declarations of love are not advisable; let nature take its course and revisit after this ten-day cycle.
Health and Illness
Health is at risk of a sudden downturn, primarily affecting the spleen, stomach, kidneys, and accidental injuries. Do not endure minor symptoms; seek medical attention promptly to prevent major disaster. Avoid strenuous exercise, water activities, and night travel. Major medical decisions like surgery should be postponed if possible.
Travel and Movement
This formation indicates impending great disaster, with long-distance travel being particularly affected. Risks are especially high for vehicle and water travel. Cancel if possible, reschedule if possible. For unavoidable travel, purchase sufficient insurance, travel with companions, avoid night routes and water routes, keep the itinerary simple, and return quickly.
Lawsuits and Litigation
Lawsuits are inauspicious. Those who initiate legal action will bring trouble upon themselves, as the opposing party has other arrangements. This formation clearly states that following the flow and maintaining stillness can avert disaster: adopt a low profile, seek reconciliation, and if necessary, accept minor losses for peace. Hard confrontation will turn a small case into a large one.