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Sky Cutting Sha (Tian Zhan Sha)

Sky Cutting Sha (天斩煞, Tian Zhan Sha) refers to the sharp, cutting energy created when two tall buildings stand close together with a narrow gap between them. The gap channels wind and creates a blade-like effect, directing aggressive Sha Qi toward buildings that face it.

Last updated · Jan 14, 2026

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Sky Cutting Sha — the gap between buildings in feng shui
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Meaning and ContextClassical RootsIdentifying Sky Cutting ShaRemedies for Sky Cutting ShaHow It Shows Up in FateFolioSources and QuotesFAQRelated

Meaning and Context

Tian Zhan Sha (天斩煞) literally means "sky-cutting sha" or "heaven-slicing sha." It describes the feng shui condition where a narrow gap between two tall buildings creates a channeling effect that accelerates wind and energy, producing a cutting or blade-like influence.

The imagery is of a giant blade slicing down from the sky. Buildings or rooms that directly face this gap are considered to be in the path of this cutting energy, which is believed to affect health, relationships, and overall fortune.

  • Formation: Narrow gap between two tall buildings of similar height
  • Effect: Wind acceleration through the gap creates cutting energy
  • Target: Buildings or windows directly facing the gap
  • Severity: Depends on gap width, building height, and distance
Physical basis
This sha has a physical component—narrow gaps between tall buildings do accelerate wind (the Venturi effect). Strong, channeled winds can create discomfort and even structural stress.

Classical Roots

Classical texts describe the harmful nature of such configurations:

Classical description
「两屋夹缝，如刀斩天，主凶。」
Plain translation
"A gap between two buildings, like a knife cutting heaven, brings misfortune."

While traditional interpretations focus on symbolic meaning, the underlying principle relates to the disruption of smooth Qi flow caused by architectural configurations.

Identifying Sky Cutting Sha

Key factors in identifying this sha:

  • Gap visibility: The narrow gap should be clearly visible from your building
  • Building height: Both buildings forming the gap should be significantly taller than yours
  • Gap narrowness: The narrower the gap relative to building height, the stronger the effect
  • Direct alignment: Your building, door, or windows should face the gap directly
  • Distance: Closer proximity increases severity

A wide gap between low buildings does not create Sky Cutting Sha. The effect requires tall buildings with proportionally narrow spacing.

Remedies for Sky Cutting Sha

Methods to address this sha:

  1. Window treatments: Heavy curtains or blinds for windows facing the gap
  2. Screening: If possible, plant trees or install screens to block the direct line
  3. Deflection: Convex mirrors (traditional) can symbolically deflect the cutting energy
  4. Avoidance: Do not place beds, desks, or important areas directly facing the gap
  5. Five Element cures: Use appropriate elements based on the direction of the sha
Practical approach
The most effective approach is to avoid direct exposure. If you cannot change the external environment, minimize time spent in areas directly facing the gap and use physical barriers.

How It Shows Up in FateFolio

In FateFolio's Feng Shui tool, Sky Cutting Sha analysis includes:

  • Identification based on your environment description
  • Assessment of severity based on configuration factors
  • Specific remedies appropriate to your situation
  • Interior arrangement suggestions to minimize exposure

Sources and Quotes

References include classical feng shui texts. Sky Cutting Sha is particularly relevant in modern urban environments with dense high-rise development.

Quoted excerpts

「气乘风则散。」
Source： 《葬书》· 气遇风则散，两楼之间的风隙形成切割之气。
「两屋夹缝，如刀斩天，主凶。」
Source： 《阳宅三要》· 两栋建筑之间的夹缝如刀斩天，主凶险。

FAQ

How close does the gap need to be to affect my building?

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There is no fixed distance rule. Generally, the effect is considered significant when the gap is clearly visible from your windows and the buildings forming it are substantially taller than your unit. A gap that is barely visible on the horizon is less concerning than one that dominates your view. The principle of "visible = effective" applies in feng shui assessment.

Does Sky Cutting Sha affect all floors equally?

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No. Units that are level with or lower than the top of the gap experience the strongest effect. If you are above the level where the gap ends (above the shorter of the two buildings), the effect is significantly reduced. Lower floors may also be less affected if other buildings or trees intervene. Direct exposure is the key factor.