(正官, Zhèng Guān) plays an important role in traditional Chinese philosophy, representing integrity, discipline, order, and the ability to assume a respected and responsible position in society. It embodies the influence of authority and control, both over one’s life and others. The Noble of Righteous Measure is part of the “Shen Sha” system, which works with the influences of Heavenly Stems, Earthly Branches, and the Five Elements (Wuxing).
General Characteristics of the Noble of Righteous Measure
The Noble of Righteous Measure stands for righteousness, morality, and the strict adherence to rules and duties. People strongly influenced by this star tend to have a strong sense of duty and responsibility. They are often described as conscientious, disciplined, reliable, and honest. These individuals naturally possess authority and follow societal rules to maintain stability and order. They frequently occupy positions of authority, such as in government, leadership roles, or careers related to law and administration.
Positive traits of the Noble of Righteous Measure may include:
- Strong sense of responsibility
- Clear moral compass
- Respect for rules and structures
- Esteem in society or professional life
- Talent for leadership and maintaining order
Negative traits may arise when the energy of this star is unbalanced:
- Too rigid and inflexible in rule-following
- Lack of creativity or adaptability
- Perceived as authoritarian or overly controlling
- Fear of change and deviation from the norm
Phases of the Noble of Righteous Measure
Chinese philosophy divides the life cycle of a star or influence into various phases, each representing a different stage of development. Each phase brings specific effects.
- Growth and Flourishing (Chang Sheng, 長生): This phase represents the beginning and development of energy. For the Noble of Righteous Measure, it signifies a strong growth in the sense of responsibility and order. A person may develop moral principles and a deep understanding of structure and authority during their youth.
- Cleansing (Mu Yu, 沐浴): This phase symbolizes purification and sometimes confusion. The individual may face uncertainties about their role in society or question their ability to follow rules, possibly experimenting with authority and morality.
- Cap and Belt (Guan Dai, 冠帶): Here, the Noble of Righteous Measure fully embraces its authority. The person establishes their position in society, and their discipline and sense of duty become publicly recognized.
- Establishment of Fortune (Lin Guan, 臨官): This phase marks the peak of power and authority. The individual’s ability to maintain order is at its highest, often holding leadership positions and serving as a role model for others.
- Imperial Brilliance (Di Wang, 帝旺): This is the zenith of the influence. The person might reach a highly esteemed position, seen as disciplined and widely respected. Authority and responsibility are exercised naturally during this phase.
- Decline (Shuai, 衰): The energy begins to wane. The individual may notice their authority diminishing or face challenges regarding their responsibilities. This is a time for reassessing the importance of order and structure.
- Sickness (Bing, 病): Weaknesses emerge in relation to the Noble of Righteous Measure. The person might struggle to maintain previous standards and confront fears of failure or loss of control.
- Death (Si, 死): This phase symbolizes the end of active energy. The person may lose their social position or withdraw from their responsibilities, reflecting on past actions and duties.
- Grave (Mu, 墓): The influence of the Noble of Righteous Measure is fully concluded. It could represent a time of internal withdrawal, with the individual letting go of their former role. This phase may also bring wisdom and understanding, where relinquishing control is seen positively.
- Dissolution (Jue, 絕): The energy of the Noble of Righteous Measure is completely dissolved. The sense of authority and control fades, and the person might experience a full transformation, freeing themselves from their former role.
- Embryo (Tai, 胎): This phase symbolizes the potential for new beginnings. The individual may develop a fresh perspective on authority, responsibility, and order, with the concept of the Noble of Righteous Measure being reformed from within.
- Nourishment (Yang, 養): This phase represents the nurturing and growth of a new understanding of discipline and responsibility. The person may experience a personal renewal, moving away from rigid views of authority and embracing a more flexible and regenerated approach to life.
Conclusion
The Noble of Righteous Measure is a star deeply connected to righteousness, order, and societal responsibility. Individuals strongly influenced by it are marked by discipline, reliability, and moral strength. As it moves through its cycle of twelve phases, the star illustrates the development of authority and self-discipline in a person’s life, from the height of social standing to the inner transformation when these forces wane.
Each phase holds its own value: while the earlier phases focus on active exertion of authority, the later stages bring insight, reflection, and the opportunity to transcend old structures and develop new perspectives.