Pima (披麻) — The Mourning Cloth Star

Pima (披麻), translated as "Mourning Cloth," is classified as an inauspicious Fate Star (神煞). Its presence in a chart or annual cycle is traditionally seen as a harbinger of loss, grief, and significant life obstacles.

Influence & Interpretation

When active, Pima is associated with themes of mourning, potential injuries, and difficulties in preserving wealth. Individuals with this star prominent in their Birth Chart (命盘) may experience periods of family misfortune, strained interpersonal relationships, and a heightened susceptibility to accidents or health issues.

Classical texts advise caution during years marked by Pima, suggesting one avoid attending funerals or visiting the sick to prevent attracting further negative influence. In essence, this star indicates a phase where life's path is strewn with obstacles, potentially leading to emotional and financial drain.

If Pima appears in the natal chart alongside the Pitou (披头) star, the interpretation becomes more severe. This combination is seen as a potent warning of profound family upheaval, frequent bereavement, and even the possibility of family separation.

Classical Verse:
"If the pillar encounters the Pima star, mourning clothes and tears are abundant. When Pima and Pitou repeatedly appear, it surely foretells mourning for both parents within the year."

How to Locate Pima

The Pima star is identified by checking the Earthly Branches (Di Zhi) in your Four Pillars (四柱). Find your Year Branch and see if its corresponding branch appears in your Month, Day, or Hour Pillar.

Related Concepts

In traditional Chinese metaphysics, Pima is often grouped with other inauspicious stars like Diaoke (吊客) and Sangmen (丧门), collectively seen as bearers of misfortune. Understanding their interplay provides a more nuanced view of challenging periods in one's Luck Cycle (大运) or Annual Cycle (流年).