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The first is called Incursion original: Jin (祲), which refers to the vapors of Yin and Yang and the five colors encroaching upon one another. Some say it refers to types of "hugging" arcs, "ear" halos, and "back-turning" jade-ring arcs These terms refer to complex parhelia (sun dogs) and atmospheric refraction patterns, appearing like rainbows but shorter.
The second is called Imagery original: Xiang (象), which refers to clouds or vapors taking on a distinct shape. An example is when red clouds appear like birds flanking the sun as if in flight. It is also said that when red clouds flank the sun as it moves, it is an "image of the sun" meaning the sun’s appearance reflects the state of the ruler signifying that treacherous ministers are flanking the sovereign and throwing the state into chaos.
The third is called The Chisel original: Juan (鐫). This occurs when vapors at the side of the sun "pierce" or "stab" it. Its shape is like the small chisel ornament worn by young boys.
The fourth is called Oversight original: Jian (監). This refers to cloud-vapors that descend upon or sit directly atop the sun.
The fifth is called Darkness original: An (闇). This refers to eclipses of the sun or moon, or when the solar light becomes dim and shadowed.
The sixth is called Obscurity original: Meng (瞢). This refers to a hazy or misty state where the sunlight is not bright or clear.
The seventh is called Pervasiveness original: Mi (彌). This refers to a "white rainbow" A rare atmospheric phenomenon often interpreted as a sign of impending assassination or military aggression that stretches across the sky and pierces through the sun.
The eighth is called Order original: Xu (序). This refers to vapors appearing like mountains above the sun. Others say it refers to the layering of "crowns," "ears," and "back-turning" jade-ring arcs appearing in an overlapping sequence at the side of the sun.