Zhi Fu is the head of the Eight Deities, the Heavenly Yi Noble Deity. It belongs to the Earth element and represents leadership, noble benefactors, and authority. Wherever it goes, all misfortunes are subdued, and all matters receive support and guidance from noble benefactors.
Classical Source
The palace where the Heavenly Yi Deity resides, the general should reside and strike its opposite.
Explanation
Zhi Fu (值符) is the head of the Eight Deities, the Heavenly Yi Noble Deity. It belongs to the Earth element and is of the utmost尊贵 (supreme nobility). In Qimen Dunjia, Jia (甲) is hidden in the current旬首 (Jia-cycle leader), and Zhi Fu acts as Jia's substitute. It flies through the nine palaces with the Zhi Fu Star, having no fixed original position. The palace it resides in becomes the pivot of the current chart. Its symbolic meanings include leaders, superiors, noble benefactors, official institutions, and core decision-makers. It also represents high-value objects and prominent figures. In terms of auspiciousness, it is a highly auspicious deity. The ancients said that wherever Zhi Fu goes, all misfortunes are subdued, and all evils recede. In the palace it occupies, auspicious matters become more auspicious, and inauspicious matters are mitigated. Regarding strength and weakness, and likes and dislikes: Zhi Fu prefers to land in a strong and prosperous palace, accompanied by auspicious stars and auspicious gates. This indicates strong support from benefactors and leaders. If it lands in a weak or imprisoned palace, benefactors may be willing but unable to help. It is most unfavorable for it to enter a tomb or be in emptiness. Entering a tomb means leaders are constrained or benefactors lose their position. Being in emptiness means promises fall through or support is illusory. Regarding appropriate actions: For seeking noble benefactors, official positions, asking for help, or applying for approvals, observe the relationship between Zhi Fu's palace and the Day Stem. If Zhi Fu's palace generates or supports the Day Stem, benefactors will actively offer help. If the Day Stem generates Zhi Fu, one must actively and diligently offer advice to gain favor. In military strategy, the key is to strike the palace opposite to where Zhi Fu resides, a crucial secret of the 'Three Victories and Five Non-Strikes'. Important note: Although Zhi Fu is auspicious, if it is accompanied by inauspicious patterns or evil gates, its authority may turn into pressure. When interpreting, one must consider the gate, star, and overall pattern in combination.
Categorized Interpretations
Career and Official Position
Zhi Fu represents leaders and noble benefactors. Obtaining it often means appreciation from superiors and promotion from high-ranking individuals. For competitive positions, someone will uphold fairness. It is advisable to actively report to and align with core decision-makers to gain support from the top leader. If Zhi Fu enters a tomb or is in emptiness, the support system is temporarily weakened; focus on achieving results before seeking recommendations.
Wealth and Business
Wealth comes with the help of noble benefactors. Large deals have the backing of authoritative figures. Wealth from cooperation with official bodies or industry leaders is most prosperous. It is advisable to seek high-level connections, align with major players, and pursue a high-end market strategy. If Zhi Fu is weak or imprisoned, benefactors may be willing but unable to help; secure contract guarantees yourself and do not rely solely on personal favors.
Marriage and Relationships
Relationships are facilitated by elders or noble benefactors. The partner is often of respectable status and superior conditions. Meeting parents is likely to gain approval. In a relationship, listening to elders' advice is beneficial. If Zhi Fu is in emptiness, promises from matchmakers may not materialize. Relationships ultimately require personal effort; curb any tendency to cling to others.
Health and Illness
For illness, Zhi Fu indicates encountering authoritative and renowned doctors, and appropriate treatment plans. Even for serious illnesses, there will be a guiding figure. It is advisable to book appointments with specialists, go to authoritative hospitals, and follow the treatment plan of the chief specialist. If Zhi Fu enters a tomb, renowned doctors may be hard to reach; seek referrals through acquaintances and avoid delays in small clinics.
Travel and Movement
Travel is supported by noble benefactors, with thoughtful arrangements for pick-up and drop-off. Official visits will be dignified. It is advisable to travel in the direction of Zhi Fu's palace to meet noble individuals. For travel involving approvals and visas, coordination from someone will ensure a smooth process. If Zhi Fu is in emptiness, beware of reception falling through; reconfirm with contacts before departure.
Lawsuits and Disputes
In lawsuits, Zhi Fu indicates encountering fair judges and authoritative arbitrators. High-level intervention can resolve major issues into minor ones. It is advisable to hire experienced lawyers and pursue formal channels for appeals. Authoritative expert opinions are key bargaining chips. If Zhi Fu is accompanied by inauspicious patterns, beware of authority turning into pressure; avoid directly confronting the presiding judge.