In traditional Chinese culture, “observing qi” is a mysterious and ancient form of divination. The ancients, such as Deng Yu, believed an invisible “qi” existed between Heaven and Earth, and by observing its changes, one could predict the fortunes and misfortunes of people and events. According to ancient texts, practitioners of this art could determine the fate of a place or person by observing the atmospheric conditions at specific times and locations. For example, a golden hue was often seen as a sign of great fortune, while black might foretell disaster.
In this context, “qi” is considered a fundamental element that constitutes the world, omnipresent and in constant motion and change. By observing the color, shape, and flow of qi, practitioners could judge the auspiciousness of a place and even predict a person’s destiny.
Den Yu used his skill to guide his 13 sons toward suitable life paths
One of the most famous practitioners of observing qi and fortune-telling in history was Deng Yu, a renowned general of the Eastern Han Dynasty. He used this skill to assess the character and intelligence of his 13 sons, guiding them toward suitable paths in life.
Deng Yu, or Zhonghua (2–58 AD), was instrumental in helping Emperor Guangwu establish the Eastern Han Dynasty. In Fan Ye’s Book of the Later Han, Deng Yu is listed as the foremost among the 28 distinguished generals of the Eastern Han. Besides his military prowess, Deng Yu was also a master of observing qi and fortune-telling.
After helping stabilize the empire, he shunned fame and power to focus on cultivating family values and educating his descendants. He wanted each of his 13 sons to master a skill. Through observing qi, Deng Yu could discern their destinies. He evaluated each son’s intelligence, measured their capacity, and followed their character, assigning each a craft — be it scholarship, farming, or commerce — so that each could excel in their field while teaching them to cultivate their moral character.
Here are a few examples:
He observed that his eldest sons, Deng Zhen, Deng Xi, and Deng Zhen, had extraordinary appearances and great strength. They exuded dignity, respectfulness, calmness, and integrity and showed signs of becoming significant figures. Thus, he taught them calligraphy, rituals, and music.
His fourth son, Deng Yu, was handsome and charming, but was also “superficial,” eager to show off any talent or skill he possessed. Deng Yu advised him to change his habits and purify himself, believing one could enjoy long-lasting prosperity and longevity only by being grounded and sincere.
His sixth son, Deng Xun, was poised and knowledgeable, like a wellspring of wisdom, open to advice, and tolerant of others. He embodied the principles of ancient sages and was destined to be a “virtuous minister” capable of governing the world.
His youngest son, Deng Hong, had a generous and open demeanor, indicative of great potential. However, his nature was inclined towards scheming, and his appearance and demeanor were feminine, suggesting a person of high status but with hidden cunning. Deng Yu thought that while he could make friends, becoming an official might harm him.
One son tended to harm others and act recklessly. Deng Yu helped him correct his flaws and taught him commerce. The son protested, saying, “I am the descendant of nobility; how can I engage in such a lowly trade?” Deng Yu replied, “Though scholars are esteemed and traders are considered lowly, a person of virtue remains noble even in humble circumstances.”
Deng Yu’s predictions about his sons came true
In the first year of Emperor Ming’s Yongping reign (A.D. 58), Deng Yu passed away at 57. The emperor divided Deng Yu’s fief into three marquisates, bestowing titles upon his eldest sons: Deng Zhen as Marquis of Gaomi, Deng Xi as Marquis of Chang’an, and Deng Zhen as Marquis of Yi’an. Deng Yu’s prediction that these sons would achieve greatness was fulfilled. His fourth son, Deng Yu, was also appointed an official but died before taking office, confirming Deng Yu’s early observation of his son’s superficial nature and short-lived fortune.
His sixth son, Deng Xun, was appointed an official during Emperor Ming’s reign. Deng Xun was a benevolent and respected scholar, attracting many to his side. In the third year of Emperor Zhang’s Jianchu reign (A.D. 78), Deng Xun was tasked with overseeing the dredging of the Hutuo and Shijiu Rivers. After assessing the situation, he reported the dangers of the narrow, treacherous mountain passes along the canal route, which endangered the workers.
The emperor heeded his advice, halting the project and switching to mule transportation, saving millions annually and preserving the lives of thousands of laborers. During the Eastern Han’s campaigns against the Qiang people, Deng Xun served as a protector and mediator, using benevolence to resolve conflicts between the Han and the nomads. Many of his descendants became imperial consorts, and his daughter Deng Sui became Empress He of Emperor He, fulfilling Deng Yu’s early prediction of his son’s virtuous nature.
The youngest son, Deng Hong, had a penchant for strategy and was made a minor marquis during the Yongping era. He was once involved in military discussions at court, impressing the emperor with his capabilities, and was appointed to lead troops at Yanmen. During Emperor Zhang’s reign, Deng Hong served as General of the Northern Campaign.
In the Yongyuan era, he joined General Bao Xian in campaigns against the Xiongnu, earning rewards and the title of General of Chariots and Cavalry. However, when he failed to advance during a pursuit, he was imprisoned, fulfilling Deng Yu’s prediction that becoming an official might harm him, as he ultimately died in prison.
Life follows a ‘destiny’ path
Deng Yu’s reputation for “observing qi and fortune telling” was well-deserved. How could this art predict a person’s future? Life follows a “destiny” path, and by understanding a person’s character, assessing their capacity, observing their intelligence, and evaluating their conduct, one can discern their future, much like distinguishing gold from stone. From a personal perspective, the best way to change one’s destiny is to cultivate one’s character and enhance one’s virtue.
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