Tai Sui

Tai Sui (Chinese: 太歲; pinyin: Tàisuì) refers to stars directly opposite to Jupiter. They influence the Chinese zodiac, and are involved in religious Taoism and Feng Shui.

Description

Tai Sui General#1 (甲子太歲金辨大將軍)

In the Chinese zodiac, there are sixty (originally 12 corresponding to the Earthly stems, later popularly believed to be 60, one for each stem-branch combination) heavenly generals (zh:六十甲子神列表) who assist the Jade Emperor in taking charge of the well-being of the Mortal World. Each of them takes turn to be in charge for a year. Due to most of them having a military background, they are normally known as the Military Generals, or as the Cycle Gods. Each of their features and weapons signifies the well-being of that year. For example, if the Tai Sui of the year is one who holds a pen, it signifies political unrest for that particular year. On the other hand, if the Tai Sui of the year holds a spear or sword it signifies the need to work hard and excel for that year.

Practises

In Taoism, those whose Chinese Zodiac is offended, or by their sign conflict or clash with the Tai Sui of the year, are advised to conduct a prayer session with a Taoist priest to ask for blessings in obtaining peace and good fortune throughout the year. Talismans thought to protect against Tai Sui are sold in many areas.

In Feng Shui, the area of the house corresponding with the position of that year's Tai Sui is to be left undisturbed or misfortune will befall the residence.

See also

External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Tai Sui.