大统历
Ming · Liu Ji
Overview
Promulgated in 1368 CE under Liu Ji. It carried the Shoushi methods unchanged and was used to the end of the Ming.
Key data
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Period of use | 1368 – 1644 CE |
| Compiler | Liu Ji and others |
| Tropical year | 365.2425 days |
| Relation to Shoushi | Same methods, same values |
The Ming calendar
The Datong calendar was promulgated in 1368, presented by Liu Ji and others. It in fact carried on the Yuan Shoushi methods with the values unchanged, only renaming and altering a few procedures.
So the Ming calendar, called Datong, was in method Shoushi.
Later difficulties
After long use, by the middle Ming its eclipse predictions drifted from the heavens. Calendrists repeatedly asked for reform and were put off.
In the Chongzhen era Xu Guangqi and others brought in Western methods for the Chongzhen lishu, not promulgated before the Ming fell. The calendar’s ills were finally settled by a change of dynasty.
Compiled and arranged by Chujia Kuang.