Thin Bones and Sparse Flesh: Liu Heng's Commentary on the 'Shen Yi Fu' in Ma Yi Physiognomy

"The Divine Oddities" was authored by Daoist Ma Yi, a master of the renowned physiognomist Chen Bo, during the early Song Dynasty. Although later physiognomy experts have written numerous works, they continue to honor Ma Yi's methods. Many physiognomy texts appeared after the Song Dynasty, including "Liu Zhuang's Physiognomy," "Complete Compilation of Physiognomy," "Collection of Water Mirrors," and "True Principles of Physiognomy," yet "Ma Yi's Physiognomy" remains the most influential. Liu Heng has compiled and annotated "The Divine Oddities" for discussion among I Ching enthusiasts, recognizing its significance just as rivers and the celestial bodies are essential.

Original Text: Physiognomy is predetermined; the world lacks foresight. Without divine oddities to secretly impart this knowledge, how could the mundane comprehend? For example, Shun had overlapping pupils and rose to the position of Emperor Yao.

Liu Heng's Annotation: A person's physiognomy is shaped by their past life, with destiny following a set path. Without study, predicting one's life is challenging; the feature of Shun's overlapping pupils highlights his extraordinary nature, allowing him to inherit Emperor Yao's throne.

Original Text: Zhong Er's ribs were joined, laying the foundation for Jin's hegemony. One should understand that bone structure influences a lifetime's rise and fall, while complexion dictates yearly fortunes. The Five Mountains bow in homage, and wealth prospers in this life.

Liu Heng's Annotation: It is said Ji Zhong Er's ribs were connected, enabling him to become one of the Five Hegemons during the Spring and Autumn period, revitalizing the Jin state for a century. Physiognomy indicates facial bone structure determines lifelong fortunes, while complexion reflects yearly fortunes. Individuals with full and robust features are destined for a prosperous life.

Original Text: The nose is the star of wealth, governing middle age fortunes. A broad and square forehead initially signifies glory and wealth, while thin and uneven bones may lead to early difficulties. Clear eyes and elegant brows denote a clever and talented child. A murky complexion and dull spirit suggest poverty.

Liu Heng's Annotation: The nose represents the earth and governs wealth and enjoyment, as well as changes in middle life fortunes. The forehead predicts early life; a broad and expansive forehead indicates early success. A thin and bony face suggests challenges and misfortunes in early life.

Original Text: A high and prominent forehead signals youth wealth and nobility; a broad and square jaw promises stability in old age. A balanced appearance implies fairness and calmness, while a cold smile suggests scheming. A full nose signifies generosity, whereas excessive facial flesh suggests a fierce disposition.

Liu Heng's Annotation: A wide and full forehead predicts early success. A broad, square jaw indicates a comfortable and secure old age; people with gentle yet authoritative eyes are generally kind and upright. Those who often smile coldly tend to be deep-minded and heavy-hearted; a full nose indicates a forgiving nature. Prominent cheekbones and excessive facial flesh suggest a harsh and severe character.

Original Text: Wisdom emerges from the skin, while optimism is reflected in the hands and feet. A low hairline and coarse skin imply stubbornness; slender fingers and broad feet suggest elegance. The wealthy naturally possess solid builds, while the noble have unique forms.

Liu Heng's Annotation: Wisdom is reflected in the forehead, and integrity is noted in the cheekbones; management skills are seen in the hands and feet. A low hairline indicates shortsightedness, and rough, dark skin suggests recklessness. Slender fingers with pointed tips indicate intelligence and diligence, while large, sturdy feet suggest practicality and grounding, often found in well-educated and refined individuals.

Original Text: In the south, the wealthy and noble often display broad foreheads; in the north, nobility and power are characterized by strong jaws. A prominent jaw and full cheeks signal strength for northern individuals, while a hunchbacked face suggests southern wealth. Sharp eyes and strong brows indicate military prowess. A dragon-like face and phoenix-like neck suggest a woman destined to marry a king; a tiger-like jaw and robust chin indicate a man destined for high office.

Liu Heng's Annotation: Southern geographical traits are fire-influenced, leading to achievements associated with broad foreheads. Northern individuals, water-influenced, tend to be wealthy and noble, with strong jaws and chins. A strong jawline indicates resilience and integrity, while a hunchbacked face suggests wealth.

The chin should be square with a curve, full and fleshy, symbolizing steady action and a tolerant character. Northern individuals with these traits are likely to be strong and prominent; southern success is reflected in broad and rounded shoulders (rather than slumped or narrow), indicating an open mind and foresight. A slightly downward-tilted face suggests self-awareness and humility, valuing filial piety and etiquette.

Those with long, narrow eyes are wise and thoughtful, while a mouth shaped like the character "四" signifies straightforwardness and sociability, hinting at wealth potential. Sharp, high-peaked eyebrows suggest strong, fair leadership.

Women with straight noses and square mouths have determined, ambitious characters. Women with slightly sloped shoulders (avoiding hunched or narrow) and naturally strong necks are resilient and capable, likely to marry well. A square face can lead to a governance career, while a broad chest with a slightly short neck is characteristic of military leaders.