Hemp Mourning (披麻): A BaZi Spirit-Star

Definition

Pi Ma (Hemp Mourning) is an inauspicious [spirit-star](/bazi/glossary/shen-sha); "hemp mourning" refers to mourning garb, signifying funerary, grievous matters, read with [Sang Men](/bazi/glossary/sang-men) and [Diao Ke](/bazi/glossary/diao-ke) as an **annual** cue. This site derives it from the **year branch**.

Derivation

Pi Ma takes a branch from the year branch (with Sang Men and Diao Ke, a year-branch-derived mourning set). This site computes it from the [Earthly Branches](/bazi/glossary/di-zhi) by the engine's rule.

Meaning and Use

- Signifies mourning garb, grief, and the emotions and affairs around funerary matters, used mostly annually. - In a Pi Ma year, mind elders at home, regulate grief, and act steadily. - Natal or annual, it need not manifest as ill — read with the whole chart and triggering.

Common Misconception

**"A Pi Ma year means a death."** It is a "cue" mourning-class star about emotion and care, not a fated misfortune.

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