A Critical Examination of the Qi Transformation of the Twelve Earthly Branches' Six Conjunctions
This paper strips away the veneer of divination and numerology to return to Pre-Qin astronomy and cosmology, critically examining the true nature of the Six Conjunctions (Liu He) among the Twelve Earthly Branches (Zi Chou, Yin Hai, Mao Xu, Chen You, etc.). It focuses on analyzing the essential 'astronomical copulation' of the Six Conjunctions and the philosophical implications—such as concealment, generation, refinement, and transformation—embedded within their 'Qi Transformation' (Hua Qi).
I. Astronomical and Etymological Investigation
Si (巳) is the designation for the 4th month. Its form resembles a snake, signifying the full deployment of Yang energy. Shuowen Jiezi states: "Si, is yǐ (already/finished). In the fourth month, Yang energy has emerged, and Yin energy has already been stored." Shen (申) is the designation for the 7th month. Its form resembles lightning, being the root character for shén (spirit/divine). Shuowen Jiezi states: "Shen, is shén. In the seventh month, Yin energy is complete, and the body draws itself taut."
Question: This is the most controversial and perilous of the Six Harmonies. Si is Fire, and Shen is Metal. Fire and Metal clash; how can they be said to harmonize$9 Even more bizarrely, they harmonize to transform into "Water"! How can Fire and Metal generate Water$10