The Luopan Is Not a Formula Calculator: Learning to Read the Land First

Before studying the Qing Nang Jing 青囊經, often translated as the Classic of the Green Satchel, I approached the luopan as though it were a formula calculator.

I thought that once I measured the direction, identified the appropriate formula and completed the calculations, the compass would reveal the answer.

My study of the classical texts has changed that understanding.

A formula does not replace observation.

A compass does not replace the land.