Peng Zu's Hundred Taboos
A set of taboos in couplet form, with one saying for the Heavenly Stem and one for the Earthly Branch for each day (e.g., 'Jia, do not open granaries'; 'Zi, do not consult divination'). Traditionally attributed to Peng Zu, the exact origin is unknown.
Peng Zu's Hundred Taboos are a series of ritual injunctions associated with the daily Heavenly Stem and Earthly Branch combinations. For example, on a 'Jia' day, it is inauspicious to open a granary; on a 'Zi' day, it is inauspicious to consult divination. These couplets, organized by the Stem-Branch cycle, provide a daily prohibition for both the Heavenly Stem and the Earthly Branch, covering aspects of daily life, agriculture, and sacrificial rites. Traditionally, people consult these sayings when selecting auspicious dates, to avoid inauspicious actions. The system is named after the legendary ancient sage Peng Zu, noted for his longevity, but the exact authorship and date of compilation are unknown. It is a widely circulated practical reference within folk calendar-selection culture.