LESSON L04 / 04 OF 36
Reading order: data, source, interpretation
Tell apart the three layers of reading: chart facts, classical sources and interpretation, and read them in that order.
Original app lesson · free on the web
This lesson has been self-reviewed and is awaiting final sign-off. The classical passages have been checked word by word; the plain-language text and the exercises are written by this project.
There are endless takes online on the same star. Which should you trust first?
Fictional birth data · teaching example · not a real person's chart · 2026-10-12
In plain words
Reading has three layers. First, chart facts: which palace, which branch, which stars are listed; they are worked out and can be checked. Second, classical sources: which book and volume, and what the text says. Third, interpretation: this project's plain wording and the views of different schools. Facts come first, then sources, then interpretation; an interpretation never overrides a fact.
What the text says
Volume 3 sets out an order: first the body and life markers, then the wealth, career and travel palaces. The text itself cares about what comes first; this course keeps that habit of reading in order.
Compare with your own chart
Every passage in this app is labelled: classical or rule basis, plain explanation, or this project's own writing. Check the label first and you know whether the passage is a fact, a source or an interpretation.
An everyday example
When you read that a star suggests communication skills, ask whether the statement is chart data, a quotation or modern commentary. Positions can be checked; interpretations need context and comparison with experience.
Record chart facts, source claims and your own understanding on three separate lines.
CHECK YOURSELF
Now, try it yourself.
Answer both questions correctly to complete the lesson. The original explanation appears after each answer.
FIND IT IN THE CHART
Find it on a chart.
Say the major stars in your Life Palace: a first-layer chart fact.
Open my chart ↗Classical sources
男命先看身命，次看財帛宮祿遷移
For a man's chart, first look at the body and life markers, then at the wealth, career and travel palaces.
Zi Wei Dou Shu Quan Shu, Volume 3; traditionally attributed in received editions
Classical texts provide cultural context. Everyday examples and exercises are written by this project.
YOUR STUDY / L04