Secret Golden Formula of Physiognomy: Liu Heng's Translation and Commentary 04

"Ma Yi Physiognomy" is a tradition originating from the Ma Yi school. The "Liu Zhuang Physiognomy" by Yuan Liuzhuang, from the Ming Dynasty, also stems from this school. During the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period, a Ma Yi school practitioner passed the essence of Dao to his chosen disciple, Chen Tuan, also known as Chen Xiyi. The Ma Yi Physiognomy captures the core principles of physiognomy, laying a robust theoretical foundation for future generations' facial analysis. Teacher Liu Heng has compiled and annotated the "Heart Mirror of Physiognomy," offering detailed notes to trace the tradition's origins and ensure its continuation.

If fish tails are sunken, how can there be virtuous wives and handsome concubines?

Liu Heng's note: In physiognomy, the area known as the "fish tail" is called the "Gate of Deceit," linked to the gallbladder meridian, which governs decision-making and emotions. If the fish tail is dry, deeply wrinkled, or the wrinkles are scattered, it indicates a man likely to harm his wife.

Cracked silkworm sacs suggest there will be no descendants.

Liu Heng's note: The term "silkworm sac" refers to the "Three Yin and Three Yang" areas, specifically the lower eyelid, also known as the "sleeping silkworm." In physiognomy, this is called the "Palace of Men and Women," associated with fertility. If the sleeping silkworm is shriveled or grid-like wrinkles appear under the eyes, it suggests a person may adopt children.

A narrow, pointed nose indicates a miserly nature; sparse teeth and thin lips often lead to disputes.

Liu Heng's note: A narrow, pointed nose with a sharp bridge suggests stinginess, with a lack of generosity and kindness. Sparse, protruding teeth indicate excessive liver energy, while a large mouth with thin lips points to poor interpersonal relationships and frequent disputes.

Protruding eyes reveal a stubborn, aggressive nature.

Liu Heng's note: The liver is connected to the eyes; bulging eyes signify a person who is stubborn, easily angered, and prone to being headstrong and inflexible.

A pale complexion and scattered spirit indicate a fading life force.

Liu Heng's note: A pale complexion may suggest a yellowish or dark skin tone due to kidney issues, indicating that one's lifespan may be nearing an end.

Fleshy growths are a sign of premature death.

Liu Heng's note: Excessive flesh growth suggests the body's energy cannot control the flesh, leading to a scattered spirit. This indicates diminishing liver yang energy, which is a sign of impending death.

A short philtrum indicates a shortened lifespan.

Liu Heng's note: The Ren meridian is the sea of yin, and the Du meridian is the sea of yang. They intersect at the philtrum, representing the yin-yang balance. A short and full philtrum indicates depletion of spleen and kidney energy, suggesting a reduced lifespan.