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Meaning and Context
In Chinese calendrical calculations, the six pairs of clashing branches create direct opposition. When the day's branch clashes with the month's branch, the day is said to be "broken" by the month — hence "monthly break."
- Yue (月): Month
- Po (破): Break, destroy
- Based on the six branch clashes: Zi-Wu, Chou-Wei, Yin-Shen, Mao-You, Chen-Xu, Si-Hai
- Considered more severe than regular day officer "break"
Classical Roots
From Xieji Bianfang Shu
「月破者，日支冲月支，大凶之日。」
Plain translation
"Monthly Break is when the day branch clashes with the month branch, a greatly inauspicious day." Classical texts are unambiguous about avoiding these days.
Monthly Break Combinations
Each month has one branch that creates monthly break:
- Yin month (寅): Shen day (申) is monthly break
- Mao month (卯): You day (酉) is monthly break
- Chen month (辰): Xu day (戌) is monthly break
- And so on for all twelve months...
How It Shows Up in FateFolio
In FateFolio's Auspicious Dates tool, monthly break days are flagged with strong warnings. The system automatically identifies these days and recommends alternatives.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing monthly break with the day officer "break" — different calculation methods
- Thinking monthly break is a full 24 hours of doom — it's a factor to consider, not absolute
- Ignoring that modern life sometimes doesn't allow date flexibility — prepare well if unavoidable
FAQ
Is Monthly Break worse than Break Day officer?
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Generally yes. Monthly Break is considered more severe because it represents a direct clash between the day and month energies. The Break Day officer is one of twelve cycling positions, while Monthly Break involves fundamental branch opposition. Most practitioners prioritize avoiding Monthly Break.