Heavenly stems illustrate the pattern of movement of the Heaven Qi in the universe. They are associated with the five elements; Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. All five elements are capable of dynamic interactions which form the force behind all lives, activities and changes in the universe.In ancient times, the Chinese used Heavenly Stems to record hours, days, months, years and space (directions) to explain things that happen in a given period. Ancient Chinese also used Heavenly Stems to explain the fundamental principles of all matters by charting the course of human life.
Chinese Names For Heavenly Stems
Yang Wood (Jia) - Spring
Yin Wood (Yi) - Spring
Yang Fire (Bing) - Summer
Yin Fire (Ding) - Summer
Yang Earth (Wu) - All Seasons
Yin Earth (Ji) - All Seasons
Yang Metal (Geng) - Autumn
Yin Metal (Xin) - Autumn
Yang Water (Ren) - Winter
Yin Water (Gui) - Winter
Five Combinations of Heavenly Stems
Yang Wood + Yin Earth = Earth
Yin Wood + + Metal = Metal
Yang Fire + Yin Metal = Water
Yin Fire + Yang Water = Wood
Yang Earth + Yin Water = Fire
