8 Z
odiac Animals: Understanding the Chinese Astrology Chinese Astrology, unlike the Western one, is based on a twelve-year cycle of animals. Each year is associated with one of the 12 zodiac symbols, with each sign representing a particular personality. The eight characters (or Ba Zhi) system is a part of Chinese metaphysics that combines principles of numerology, Yin-Yang, and the elements of nature. The eight characters or Ba Zhi may also be referred to as ‘Four Pillars of Destiny’. In this article, we shall dive deep into understanding what it is all about. The Ba Zhi analysis begins with determining the four pillars or eight characters, namely, year, month, day, and hour of birth. Each pillar has two characters – one from the Heavenly Stems and the other from the Earthly Branches. The Heavenly stems represent the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water, while the Earthly Branches are linked to the 12 animal symbols. The eight characters use four syllables to describe an individual's birth chart. The first is the year of birth, followed by the month, the day, and lastly, the hour of birth. The combination of these four syllables forms a unique set of characters, which can be used to determine an individual's destiny, personality traits, career, and relationships. It is believed that an individual's Ba Zhi shows how the five elements interact with each other and their impact on the individual's life. It is common for people to consult Ba Zhi experts when making significant life decisions such as starting a business, changing careers, or getting married. Overall, the eight characters or Ba Zhi system is a fascinating and intricate part of Chinese astrology. It is an ancient system that has been used for hundreds of years to understand an individual's personality, destiny, and life path. With a better understanding of Ba Zhi, we can gain a deeper understanding of our own selves and those around us.