such a locale is not suitable for burial.

B. Branches and Hills

1. It is the nature of (arterial) branches to run hidden

underground; it is the nature of hills to rise up from
the ground.

2. Where branches and hills terminate, there is level

ground like the palm of the hand.

3. Therefore, with branches bury on their summit, and

with hills bury at their base.

4. When divining, branches are the head and hills are

the feet.

5. If features and contours do not conform to the rule,

qi will escape in a rush.

6. As for human burial, truly it is a difficult matter.

7. Distinguishing branches and hills confuses the

vision and deludes the mind.

8. The difference between bad and good fortune

separates the prince from the prisoner.

C. Fathoming Qi

1. Carried in metal, assisted by water, entombed in

earth, and marked by wood.

2. On the outside it catches the eight winds; inside it

hides the five elements.

3. The heavenly lights shine down; the earthly

energies are carried upwards.

4. Yin and yang blend and mix, (forming) the five

(colored) soils and the four perfections.

5. With the intelligence of strong vision and the

totality of skill, pursue the perfect and avoid the
imperfect; augment the high and low.

6. Subtlety lies in wisdom; deduce from analogy and