Gou Sha (Hook Killing)
Gou Sha is an inauspicious spirit, paired with Jiao Sha as the "Gou Jiao" duo. "Gou" means hook, snare, or entanglement—governing being passively dragged into disputes.
Lookup Method
Based on the Day Branch, count three positions forward:
| Day Branch | Gou Sha |
|---|---|
| Zi | You |
| Chou | Xu |
| Yin | Hai |
| Mao | Zi |
| Chen | Chou |
| Si | Yin |
| Wu | Mao |
| Wei | Chen |
| Shen | Si |
| You | Wu |
| Xu | Wei |
| Hai | Shen |
Rule: Three positions forward from Day Branch is Gou Sha. If any of the other pillars sits on this branch, the chart is said to carry Gou Sha.
Symbolism
- Passive Entanglement: Dragged into others' disputes, even when innocent.
- Backstabbing: Easily framed or schemed against.
- Lawsuits and Gossip: Prone to complaints and accusations.
- Co-signing Risk: Vouching for others and bearing their losses.
Position Effects
- Year Pillar: Drawn into family or external events in youth.
- Month Pillar: Trouble caused by siblings or peers.
- Day Branch: Spouse triggers disputes.
- Hour Pillar: Children or juniors bring complications.
Difference from Jiao Sha
- Gou Sha: Passive—being dragged in.
- Jiao Sha: Active—being entangled in.
- Both present together = full "Gou Jiao", doubling the negative effect.
Remedies
- Avoid co-signing or careless contracts.
- Choose friends carefully, avoid troublemakers.
- Keep records and evidence as protection.
- See Gou Jiao for the combined doctrine.