BaZi basics in plain language: the Four Pillars, stems and branches, the Five Elements, Ten Gods, hidden stems, luck pillars and true solar time, plus FAQs.
Start here
Begin with the Four Pillars, stems and branches, and the Five Elements.
Heavenly stems
The ten heavenly stems are the upper half of each pillar.
Earthly branches
The twelve earthly branches mark hours and months, and hold hidden stems.
Ten Gods
The Ten Gods describe how other stems and branches relate to the Day Master.
Combinations and clashes
Combinations, clashes and related pairings are common stem-branch relationships.
Luck pillars
Luck pillars and annual pillars lay the chart out over time.