On this page
Meaning and Context
The Chinese almanac doesn't just rate days as "good" or "bad" overall — it specifies which activities are favorable and which should be avoided on each day. This nuanced system allows for practical application.
- Yi (宜): Suitable, recommended, favorable for
- Ji (忌): Taboo, should avoid, unfavorable for
- Categories include: marriage, moving, construction, travel, business, funerals, etc.
- The same day can be Yi for some activities and Ji for others
Classical Roots
From Xieji Bianfang Shu
「宜者，可行也；忌者，当避也。」
Plain translation
"Yi means it can be done; Ji means it should be avoided." Simple, practical guidance for daily planning.
Common Yi Ji Categories
Traditional almanacs list many activity categories:
- Marriage ceremonies (嫁娶): Weddings, engagements
- Moving house (搬迁/入宅): Relocating residence
- Construction (动土): Breaking ground, renovations
- Travel (出行): Long journeys, trips
- Business (开业/交易): Opening shops, signing contracts
- Medical (求医/治病): Seeking treatment
- Funerals (安葬): Burial ceremonies
How It Shows Up in FateFolio
In FateFolio's Auspicious Dates tool, Yi Ji information is displayed for each day. You can search for specific activities to find days where they are listed as Yi (favorable).
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking Ji activities are absolutely forbidden — they're advisories, not prohibitions
- Ignoring the specific activity — a generally good day might still be Ji for your purpose
- Taking Yi as a guarantee — it means conditions are favorable, not that success is certain
FAQ
What if the activity I need isn't listed in Yi or Ji?
+
Traditional almanacs list common activities but can't cover everything. For unlisted activities, practitioners often refer to the general day quality, the day officer, and whether major sha are present. Modern tools may also provide guidance for contemporary activities.