Assessing Education Level Through Ear Features
Those who have studied physiognomy say the ears relate to external learning, while the teeth reflect internal learning. In this tradition, the ears are the orifice of the kidneys, and the teeth are the essence of the kidneys. The kidneys are the root of qi and the foundation of yin and yang, also known as the Gate of Life. People with strong kidney qi are thought to be intelligent, quick-witted, and have good memories, which naturally gives them an advantage in study and learning. The teachings of the sages emphasize working from the inside out, considering both root and branch. In physiognomy, prominent ears are called "broadcasting ears." If the ears are not visible from the front, people may even wonder whose child that is. Earlobes that tilt toward the mouth are said to bring both fortune and longevity. Ears resembling chess pieces indicate a rise from humble beginnings. These observations relate not only to education but also to a person's fortune and reputation.
The thickness, color, softness or hardness, roundness, and sharpness of the ears mainly reflect one’s family circumstances in childhood and do not determine the level of education. Children from poor families can also excel and attend top universities like Peking University or Tsinghua University. In assessing education from the ears, the focus is on the ear helix, specifically the inner rim of the ear. The ear helix represents innate kidney qi, while the earlobe represents acquired essence. If the cartilage of the earlobe is prominent and encircles the ear gate, it indicates a high level of education.
If the earlobe is round and protruding but the ear helix does not wrap around, it suggests an undergraduate level of education. If the ear helix is well developed, firm, and white, it indicates a master's degree or higher. If the earlobe is not prominent, flat, and angular, it suggests vocational education. If the earlobe is barely visible and lacks vitality, it indicates education below high school.
Blackened, shriveled ears indicate a lack of formal education. There are two situations for a prominent earlobe: one where the cartilage visibly protrudes, and another where the cartilage is not raised but can still be discerned within the ear.
Even if the earlobe is round and high, a break through the middle suggests interrupted education. The quality of the ear helix reflects family circumstances during one’s school years and differences in economic environments. A well-defined, round, thick, and smooth ear helix indicates favorable conditions; conversely, a poorly defined ear helix suggests a difficult and challenging educational path.