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Meaning and Context
The Three Killings are directional sha that rotate through the compass based on the yearly earthly branch. Unlike personal clashes, San Sha affects everyone equally during the year.
- San (三): Three
- Sha (煞): Killing, malevolent force
- Components: Robbery Sha (劫煞), Disaster Sha (灾煞), Year Sha (岁煞)
- Location changes yearly based on the year's earthly branch
Classical Roots
From Xieji Bianfang Shu
「三煞者，劫煞、灾煞、岁煞也，忌向其方。」
Plain translation
"The Three Killings are Robbery Sha, Disaster Sha, and Year Sha — avoid directing activities toward their sectors."
San Sha by Year Branch
The Three Killings occupy different directions based on the year:
- Shen, Zi, Chen years (Monkey, Rat, Dragon): South
- Yin, Wu, Xu years (Tiger, Horse, Dog): North
- Si, You, Chou years (Snake, Rooster, Ox): East
- Hai, Mao, Wei years (Pig, Rabbit, Goat): West
How It Shows Up in FateFolio
In FateFolio's tools, the current year's Three Killings direction is displayed when relevant. For date selection involving directional activities (construction, moving, etc.), this factor is considered.
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking San Sha prevents all activities in that direction — it mainly affects major changes
- Confusing with personal sha from birth chart — San Sha is universal for the year
- Ignoring entirely — while not catastrophic, it's traditionally an important consideration
FAQ
What activities should avoid the Three Killings direction?
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Traditional guidance particularly warns against: starting construction or renovation facing San Sha, moving into a home that faces San Sha, sitting with your back to San Sha during important ceremonies. Everyday activities facing these directions are generally not a concern.