Lu Ban Ruler (Feng Shui Measurements)

The Lu Ban Ruler (Lu Ban Chi) is an ancient Feng Shui measuring tool invented by Lu Ban, the legendary patron saint of Chinese carpentry and builders. It is used to determine whether the dimensions of architectural elements and furniture will bring auspicious (good) or inauspicious (bad) fortune.

In modern Feng Shui practice, three types of Lu Ban Rulers are commonly used:

• 52.2cm Ruler: Used for hollow spaces like main doors, windows, and skylights. You measure the clear inner width and height (the passage space).
• 42.9cm Ruler (Yang Dwelling): Used for solid objects like beds, wardrobes, kitchen counters, steps, and desks.
• 38.8cm Ruler (Yin Dwelling): Used exclusively for spiritual or ancestral items like altars, shrines, and tombs.

Each ruler's cycle is divided into sectors. When a measurement lands on a red/auspicious sector across all three rulers, it is considered a perfectly auspicious dimension.

To ensure accurate Feng Shui results, you must measure the correct parts of the object depending on the ruler type:

• Doors and Windows (52.2cm): Measure the inner clearance (the empty space you walk through or see through), NOT the door frame.
• Beds (42.9cm): Measure the total length, width, and height.
• Altars (38.8cm): Measure the width, depth, and height of the tabletop.
• Kitchen Counters (42.9cm): Measure the height from the floor to the top surface.

Important Tip: If you cannot find a dimension that is auspicious on all three rulers, prioritize the ruler that matches the object's purpose (e.g., prioritize the 52.2cm ruler for a door).