2012 :: Year of the Water Dragon A few notes and references...
This page presents a collection of background information, symbolic descriptors and predictive interpretations for the year 2012. We begin with an overview of the topic most in the news in recent years, the
purported Mayan long-count calendar prediction of world-changing cataclysmic or spiritually transforming events; references include the Mayan codices from which the prediction is derived. Next is a brief section on
Western Astrology, in which we examine the anticipated effect of slow-mover planetary transits: Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto. Then, beginning with a philosophical and conceptual synopsis of the Chinese
system of astrology from several authoritative sources, we present explanations of Qi, Yinyang, the Wu Xing (Five Phases), and the Four Pillars of Destiny. This is complemented by
tables to identify (1) your Animal Sign and associated qualities, based on your date of birth; (2) your Four Pillars: Year, Month, Day and Hour Animals, with a brief review of their significance; (3) a brief assessment of
personality for Water Dragon; (4) the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches; and (4) a table of relationships showing how other Animal signs fare in the year of the Dragon. The page concludes with predictions for the Year of the
Water Dragon and the 12 Signs of the Chinese Zodiac.
Some think 2012 will bring the end of civilization as we know it — a fate predicted, they believe, in the Maya's
long-count calendar. There are those who await cataclysmic events and those who anticipate spiritual transformation; one way or the other, the coming change is expected to be great, a truly
eschatological event. Sven Gronemeyer, of Latrobe
University in Australia, has a different interpretation. After studying
the hieroglyphs on the stone tablet found years ago at Tortuguero in Tobasco, on the Gulf coast of Mexico, he identified a second reference to the 2012 date; he
interprets this inscription to indicate the return of Bolon Yokte, Mayan god of creation and war, on 21 December 2012.
He said the inscription described the return of the mysterious Mayan god Bolon Yokte at the end of a 13th period of 400 years, known as Baktuns, on the equivalent of 21 December 2012.
Mayans considered 13 a sacred number. There is nothing apocalyptic in the date, he said.
The text was carved about 1,300 years ago. The stone has cracked, which has made the end of the passage almost illegible.
Mayan god Bolon Yokte. Credit: Justin Kerr/ Sachsische Landesbibliothek. artdaily.org. Click to enlarge.
Gronemeyer said the inscription referred to the end of a cycle of 5,125 years since the beginning of the Mayan Long Count calendar in 3113 BC.
The fragment was a prophecy of the then ruler Bahlam Ajaw, who wanted to plan the passage of the god, Gronemeyer said.
"For the elite of Tortuguero, it was clear they had to prepare the land for the return of the god and for Bahlam Ajaw to be the host of this initiation," he said.
Bolon Yokte, the god of creation and war, was to prevail that day in a sanctuary of Tortuguero.
"The date acquired a symbolic value because it is seen as a reflection of the day of creation," Gronemeyer said. "It is the passage of a god and not necessarily a great leap for humanity."
[...]
Until recently, Maya scholars had been reluctant to respond to the discussion about the 2012 prophecy because "it's all complete nonsense," as one of the foremost scholars, David Stuart, put it in the
preface to his 2011 book, The Order of Days: the Maya and the Truth about 2012.
[...]
The ROM's Justin Jennings said it went with Dec. 23 because, "there's no evidence that the long count is linked to astronomical cycles" and the curators felt that Dec. 21 feeds into "2012 galactic alignment
stuff, which just doesn't hold water from an astronomy point of view and it does not work for classic Maya literature."
Maya expert David Stuart doesn't care which date people choose but told CBC News that it is a complete coincidence that Dec. 21 will be the winter solstice. "Other baktun endings don't really fall on important
astronomical dates," he noted.
Obviously, baktuns have come and gone. This year just happens to be the one when the 13th baktun ends. The 12th baktun ended on Sept. 18, 1618, which was when Europe's very destructive Thirty Years' War was
just getting started.
Stuart writes that, "any such statements about the Maya predicting the world's demise or alternatively, some 'transformation of consciousness' in 2012 is, to put it as simply and directly as possible, wrong."
So where does such a misunderstanding come from?
click to enlarge
The myth is indeed a modern one but Stuart noted there was a reference made in the late 19th century by Ernst Förstemann, one of the first decipherers of the Maya's long-count calendar. (Förstemann
was a German librarian in Dresden; the other main decipherer at the time was American journalist Joseph [T.] Goodman.)
However, he did not connect that to the ending of the 13th baktun and, "Ironically, the scene is related to world creation," Stuart said.
"That set the stage for people to come at this with the idea that there was a Maya myth about the end of the world," he added.
In 1966, in the first edition of The Maya (the 8th edition of the book was published in 2011), Michael Coe, an American renowned for his expertise on the subject, speculated about the ways
the Maya might have thought about the ending of the 13th baktun.
One way might have been the destruction of the world, based primarily on the nearby Aztecs' myths about world creation and destruction, Coe suggested.
However, Stuart said that Coe would admit, "then as now, no Maya source makes any such claim about 2012." [...]
Many of the videos exploring, promoting or debunking the 2012 meme incorrectly substitute the Aztec calendar stone to indicate the Mayan. Here are a few examples.
In Western Astrology...
Slow-mover transits from
1 January 2012 — 31 December 2012:
Jupiter: 0º25.7' Taurus — 7º52.1' Gemini.
Saturn: 28º17.4' Libra — 9º28' Scorpio.
Uranus: 0º50.6' Aries — 4º44.7' Aries.
Neptune: 28º53.4' Aquarius — 1º2.7' Pisces.
Pluto: 7º19.3' Capricorn — 9º17.1' Capricorn.
The impact of these transits will be idiosyncratic with respect to an individual horoscope, but, in general, and in positive terms, we might say that a transit of —
Jupiter through Taurus and Gemini suggests big-picture perspective, assessing worth and merits and working toward practical goals, meeting basic needs, taking pleasure in achieving results, fostering effective communication, and the open-minded
consideration of new ideas and approaches;
Saturn through late Libra and early Scorpio suggests the pursuit of fairness, justice and social harmony, with the purposeful pursuit of personal desires informed by social awareness;
Uranus in early Aries suggests an intuitive appreciation of new directions and means of implementation;
Neptune in late Aquarius and entering Pisces suggests humanitarian efforts to bring people together with new technology, increased connectedness, evolving transpersonal and transcendent awareness; and
Pluto in the first decan of Capricorn suggests continued change, upheaval, and the creation or evolution of a new order.
Year of the Water Dragon — 23 January 2012 ... 9 February 2013
Background on the Chinese zodiac and world view...
In Chinese astrology, there are twelve lunar signs: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Boar.
Each of these is further characterized in terms of the Wu Xing (Five Phases, or Five Elements), and by Yin-yang, Qi.
Qi — Vital Energy
Qi (also Chi, pronounced "chee"), energy or vital essence or life force, is a difficult concept to comprehend. As Ted Kaptchuk writes in
The Web That Has No Weaver: Understanding Chinese Medicine, "[t]he idea of Qi is
fundamental to Chinese medical thinking, yet no one English word or phrase can adequately capture its meaning."
We can say that everything in the universe, organic and inorganic, is composed of and defined by its Qi. But Qi is not some primordial, immutable material, nor is it merely vital
energy, although the word is occasionally so translated. Chinese thought does not distinguish between matter and energy, but we can perhaps think of Qi as matter on the verge of becoming energy, or
energy at the point of materializing. [...] Neither the classical nor modern Chinese texts speculate on the nature of Qi, nor do they attempt to conceptualize it. Rather, Qi is perceived functionally
— by what it does. (1983:35-6)
Qigong Demo with Master "John Chang"
Uploaded 30.03.07 by MartialDevelopment. (00:09:53)
Qi arises from the interplay between Yin and Yang.
Source:Yinyang (Yin-yang)
Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy,
A peer-reviewed academic resource.
Accessed 10 January 2012. Links added.
Yinyang (yin-yang) is one of the dominant concepts shared by different schools throughout the history of Chinese philosophy. Just as with many other Chinese philosophical notions,
the influences of yinyang are easy to observe, but its conceptual meanings are hard to define. Despite the differences in the interpretation, application, and appropriation of yinyang, three basic
themes underlie nearly all deployments of the concept in Chinese philosophy: (1) yinyang as the coherent fabric of nature and mind, exhibited in all existence, (2) yinyang as jiao (interaction)
between the waxing and waning of the cosmic and human realms, and (3) yinyang as a process of harmonization ensuring a constant, dynamic balance of all things. As the Zhuangzi
(Chuang-tzu) claims, "Yin in its highest form is freezing while yang in its highest form is boiling. The chilliness comes from heaven while the warmness comes from the
earth. The interaction of these two establishes he (harmony), so it gives birth to things. Perhaps this is the law of everything yet there is no form being seen."(Zhuangzi, Chapter 21). In none of these
conceptions of yinyang is there a valuational hierarchy, as if yin could be abstracted from yang (or vice versa), regarded as superior or considered metaphysically separated and
distinct. Instead, yinyang is emblematic of valuational equality rooted in the unified, dynamic, and harmonized structure of the cosmos. As such, it has served as a heuristic mechanism for formulating a
coherent view of the world throughout Chinese intellectual and religious history. [...]
The most enduring interpretation of yinyang in Chinese thought is related to the concept of qi (ch'i, vital energy). According to this
interpretation, yin and yang are seen as qi (in both yin and yang forms) operating in the universe. In the "Duke Shao" chapter of the Zuozhuan (The Book
of History), yin and yang are first defined as two of six heavenly qi:
There are six heavenly influences [qi] which descend and produce the five tastes, go forth in the five colours, and are verified in the five notes; but when they are in excess, they
produce the six diseases. Those six influences are denominated the yin, the yang, wind, rain, obscurity, and brightness. In their separation, they form the four seasons; in their order, they form the five
(elementary) terms. When any of them is in excess, they ensure calamity. An excess of the yin leads to diseases of cold; of the yang, to diseases of heat.
(Legge 1994: 580).
Central to the Chinese analysis of energy and its behaviors is the concept of Chi[,] the Chinese character [for which] has several meanings. I can mean "air" or "breath", but it is most commonly
used to represent the concept of "energy" or "vital essence". In the human body, Chi is the fundamental energy that sustains life and is present in the vibrating biological processes of every one
of the millions and millions of cells. It drives all activities throughout the organism. This energy is not uniquely human. Every being shares in and is a natural manifestation of the vast Chi
or fundamental energy of the universe. Just as modern science has demonstrated the elegant unity and constant inter-relationship of all matter and energy in the elemental structures and
processes of our planet and the known cosmos, so too has the cumulative Chinese understanding of Chi been based on minute observation of a correspondingly delicate and interdependent
web of energy patterns flowing through and forming the basis of all that exists.
Meaning and construction of the character...
The three top strokes (3) in the character for Qi may be interpreted as Shui, or water, ever-moving mist, vapor, fog, Dragon's breath or steam from a cooker. The body (2) of the character may be
taken as a depiction for mountain or a cooker to contain rice, capable of blocking or containing energy. The ideogram for uncooked rice (1) or whole grains is at the heart of the character for Qi,
emphasizing the importance of agriculture and food preparation in accord with the principles of Yin and Yang, Wuxing, season, gender, latitude, topography, what to sow and not, in what year, the medicinal
use of plants, etc.
Here, yin and yang are the qi of the universe. These qi flow within the natural as well as the human worlds. They are the basic fabric of existence:
Heaven and earth have their regular ways, and men like these for their pattern, imitating the brilliant bodies of Heaven, and according with the natural diversities of the Earth.
(Heaven and Earth) produce the six atmospheric conditions [qi], and make use of the five material elements. Those conditions (and elements) become the five tastes, are manifested in the five colours, and
displayed in the five notes. When they are in excess, there ensue obscurity and confusion, and people lose their (proper) nature… There were mildness and gentleness kindness and harmony, in imitation of the producing
and nourishing action of Heaven. There are love and hatred, pleasure and anger, grief and joy, produced by the six atmosphere conditions [qi]. Therefore (the sage kings) carefully imitated these relations and
analogies (in forming ceremonies), to regulate those six impulses ... When there is no failure in the joy and grief, we have a state in harmony with the nature of Heaven and Earth, which consequently can endure long.
(Legge 1994: 708).
Thus qi, a force arising from the interplay between yin and yang, becomes a context in which yinyang is seated and functions. Yinyang as qi provides an explanation
of the beginning of the universe and serves as a building block of the Chinese intellectual tradition. In many earlier texts, one may observe how yinyang generates a philosophical perspective on heaven, earth and
human beings. In many earlier texts, one may observe how yinyang generates a philosophical perspective on heaven, earth and human beings. Chapter 42 of the
Laozi says that "everything is embedded in yin and embraces yang; through chong qi [vital energy] it reaches
he [harmony]." It is through yinyang's function as qi and the interaction between them that everything comes into existence. Zhuangzi also speaks about the "qi of yin and
yang": "When the qi of yin and yang are not in harmony, and cold and heat come in untimely ways, all things will be harmed." (Zhuangzi ch. 31) On the other hand, "when the
two have successful intercourse and achieve harmony, all things will be produced." (Zhuangzi ch. 21)[...]
[Read More]
All of this becomes much more complicated as different forms of Qi are identified. For our purposes here, however, let's consider five types of Qi, the Wu Xing. These, when correlated with the various
animals in the zodiac, will characterize specific expressions of qi. In that sense, we can speak of a "yang water dragon" qi.
Wu Xing (Wuxing) — The Five Phases
Source:Wu Xing
Joseph Yu, Feng Shui Research Center. Accessed 9 January 2012. Emphasis added; table adapted.
The Five Types of Chi
In Chinese philosophy, the concept of "Wu Xing" has a prominent standing. In Chinese Medicine, Astrology and Fengshui, the idea of Wu Xing is used extensively. This term has been conveniently translated as "five elements"
or "five phases". The word "Wu" means "five". To single out the word "Xing" and try to explain what it means is futile effort. "Wu Xing" is actually the short form of Wu zhong liu xing zhi chi or "the five types of chi
dominating at different times". Water dominates in winter, wood in spring, fire in summer, metal in autumn. At the intersection between two seasons, the transitional period is dominated by earth. It is customary in Chinese
writing to summarize a longer phrase into a couple of characters. Sometimes the meaning is completely lost in the abbreviated form if the original phrase is not referred to. Wu Xing is one such example. Common translations
including "five elements", "five agents", "five qualities", "five properties" and "five courses" cannot bring out the underlying meaning of the abbreviated term. This is the deficiency of a word for word translation.
The names "water", "wood", "fire", "metal" and "earth" are only substances whose properties resemble the respective chi in the closest possible way. They do help us understand the properties of the five types of chi but they also mislead us if we take everything in the literal sense.
Here we list some of the properties of the five types of chi as their names imply. [...] When chi is in the form of matter, the shape and color will determine which of the five types it belongs. More often than not, we have a combination of two or more different types. [...]
The Chinese character we translate as "Elements" is sometimes rendered as 'phases' or 'movements.' In the ancient writings it meant 'crossroads.' This more literal meaning
had the symbolic advantage of implying the energetic coordinates of a larger cosmological system. — Matsumoto K, Birch S. Five Elements and Ten Stems Brookline, MA: Paradigm (1983).
Whether we choose to translate xing as "element", "phase", or "movement", it is crucial to understand that the character implies a passage and a passing through. Xing is not a thing but a process,
a noun that is at the same time a verb.
The Five Elements are Water, Fire, Wood, Metal and Earth. "Wu" means five and "Xing" means movement. The five elements are considered to be phases of a cycle of change. [...]
The concordances of the five elements is an important part of the theory. It shows how each element has related properties which together form an integrated whole. [...]
Chinese Five Elements
Cycles of Balance:
Creation (Sheng) Cycle; Destruction (Ke [K'o]) Cycle; Cycles of Imbalance:
Overacting (Cheng) Cycle; Insulting (Wu) Cycle.
Don Reynolds (March 2007)
Wood
Fire
Earth
Metal
Water
Yin
Yin Wood yr ends in 5
Yin Fire yr ends in 7
Yin Earth yr ends in 9
Yin Metal yr ends in 1
Yin Water yr ends in 3
Yang
Yang Wood yr ends in 4
Yang Fire yr ends in 6
Yang Earth yr ends in 8
Yang Metal yr ends in 0
Yang Water yr ends in 2
The Five Elements present in Yin or Yang form during the stem-branch or sexagenary (60-year) Chinese calendar cycle, which is based on combinations of Ten Heavenly Stems and Twelve Earthly Branches (the lunar animal signs of the zodiac). The combined descriptor for any given year thus includes Yinyang, element, and animal. In 2012, for example,
the combined descriptor is Yang Water Dragon. The next year of the Yang Water Dragon will be 2072, 60 years from now. The beginning of the sexagenary cycle is Jia Zi, the Yang Wood Rat.
Postcard presented by postcrossing in promotion of
Imagine Dragons, the 2012 title of the
Singapore Philatelic Museum's annual exhibition dedicated to the Chinese Zodiac. January through December 2012 ...
celebrating dragons from around the world in the Year of the Water Dragon (23 Jan 2012 - 9 Feb 2013).
One of the dragons from The Nine Dragons handscroll, painted by the Song-Dynasty Chinese artist Chen Rong in 1244 CE. Ink and some red on paper. The entire scroll is 46.3 x 1096.4 cm.
Located in the Museum of Fine Art - Boston, USA. Francis Gardner Curtis Fund 17.1697 acquisition.
See WU, T. (1997). Tales from the land of dragons: 1000 years of Chinese painting. Boston, MA, Museum of Fine Arts. Pages 197 - 200.
Credit: China National Tourist Office Sydney (Australia & New Zealand)
Source:Chinese Dragon
China National Tourist Office Sydney (Australia & New Zealand). Accessed 8 January 2012.
The people of China have a long held belief that they are descendents of the dragon, a tradition that is firmly embedded in their culture and one that is encountered across all aspects of Chinese society
and in the minds of its people. Whereas in western cultures dragons are usually regarded as a symbol of malevolence, in China the dragon is held in high esteem for its dignity and power for good.
From primitive times people have regarded the dragon as an auspicious creature with the power to bless and influence their lives. As tribes fought for domination and came to be united under a common banner the dragon was adopted as a national icon. Such was the mysterious creature's power it was regarded as the god of rain, thunder, the rainbow, and the stars. In a society that was founded upon agriculture and animal husbandry totally reliant upon its natural environment and in particular the climate, the dragon was worshipped as the source of all that was beneficial to communal well being. This concept has been sustained for thousands of years as more and more deification was bestowed upon the dragon ranging from being a bringer of joy to prophecy and miracles. With the establishment of a feudal society, emperors compared themselves to the dragon thereby making it the exclusive symbol of imperial majesty. Anyone who subsequently used the dragon as a symbol either intentionally or erroneously could be regarded as offending their ruler and condemned to death. [...] [Read More]
In Chinese Mythology, the Dragon has always been an auspicious sign. Its symbolism is often related to or signifies Heavenly Energies and Imperial Decrees or both. The Belief that there are four Dragon Kings
in the four corners of the World, charged with regulating the flow of water, in the form of rainfall, rivers, lakes, streams, and even wells is significant to the relation of the element with the mythical creature.
With water, being the life source of most living things, the Dragon's influence means it affects the regulation and flow of life. Seeing that Dragon is a Yang Force, or representation of Dynamic Energies, and it's
linked to the element of water – the life giving force, it can be seen as an auspicious time to expect a deluge of energies. But like the water rapids, expect some wild rides ahead in 2012, economically, politically
and romantically. Expect fresh innovation, but also historically watershed (no pun intended) moments, and stagnancy is not an issue.
The Water Dragon, seen as a lucky sign for the most part, also displays traits of sustainability and longevity. 1952 was the last time the Water Dragon made an appearance in a once-a-60 year cycle. It demarcated
the coronation of UK's Queen Elizabeth II in February of that year, for a period that moves from the 20th to the 21st century, and she is still reigning today. In November that same year, Agatha Christie's Mousetrap
opened in London, its successful run, in retrospect, earned it the record holder for the longest, continuously running production of a play in modern history.
This sense of lasting power or leaving an indelible mark on society can be seen as good for some and perhaps more ominous for others. In 1952, the United States of America brought two new innovations to the 20th
century: the hydrogen bomb and the B-52 Bomber, two of the most destructive weapons for use in conflicts. In December of that year, a toxic killer-fog descended over the city of London, requiring us to come up with
a new term in eco-disaster: "Smog".
[... A]ncient Taoist Philosophy teaches [that] all things in the world are comprised of the dynamic interplays of forces Positive and Negative [...] 2012 could very well be an unforgettable
year. Let us all strive to harness the energies that the Water Dragon brings, and effect positive changes in our life and the lives of others. Happy New Year!
Source:Chinese Zodiac - Dragon
Year of the Dragon, Chinese Zodiac. Accessed 8 January 2012. Emphasis added.
Personality
Occupying the 5th position in the Chinese Zodiac, the Dragon is the mightiest of the signs. Dragons symbolize such character traits as dominance and ambition. Dragons prefer to live by their own rules and
if left on their own, are usually successful. They're driven, unafraid of challenges, and willing to take risks. They're passionate in all they do and they do things in grand fashion. Unfortunately, this
passion and enthusiasm can leave Dragons feeling exhausted and interestingly, unfulfilled. [...]
Dragons and the 5 elements
Metal Dragons – Years 1940 and 2000
Metal strengthens this already strong sign. Metal Dragons are more determined and they'll fight for what they believe in. They enjoy the company of those who feel mighty enough to challenge their beliefs. They're true
leaders and usually find plenty of others willing to follow. [...]
Water Dragons – Years 1952 and 2012
Water calms the Dragon's fire. Water Dragons are able to see things from other points of view. They don't have the need to always be right. Their decisions, if well-researched, are usually better since they allow
others to become involved.
Wood Dragons – 1904 and 1964
Wood Dragons also are willing to entertain the opinions of others. Their artistic side is strong, and Wood Dragons enjoy being creative and innovative. They get along with others, but will always be the dominating force.
Fire Dragons – 1916 and 1976
A Fire Dragon's emotions can flare instantly. Fire Dragons put themselves on pedestals, and because they react quickly and recklessly, they sometimes make wrong decisions. Fire Dragons need to slow down and keep their
tempers in check as that's when they're best.
Earth Dragons – Years 1928 and 1988
More rooted in the ground, Earth Dragons make better decisions because they act more rationally. Earth Dragons are level-headed and able to control their behaviors. They're more supportive of others, but they prefer
being admired by others. [...]
The Four Pillars of Destiny is a conceptual system used in Chinese and Japanese astrology to reveal an individual's
characteristics, destiny or fate. Based on the moment of birth, it focuses upon four components: year, month, day, and hour. Correlated with the animals of the zodiac, these are sometimes referred to as one's
power, inner, true, and secret animals; it is much simpler, however, to think of them in terms of function. The tool at right, courtesy
Four Pillars & Feng Shui, enables a quick calculation of these four components. There's a more complex free version
here (adding longitude provides a more accurate result). And Jane Adler, a Feng Shui
practitioner, provides a nicely concise article as an brief introduction to the art.
Source:Four Pillars of Destiny in a Nutshell
Judy Adler, Classic Feng Shui. Accessed 12 January 2012. Links and inset content added.
Judy Adler is the first American designated Feng Shui Master by Master Joseph Yu, founder of the Feng Shui Research Center in Ontario. She has been practicing and teaching Feng Shui professionally
since 1993.
NOTE: If you'd like to try a more elaborate calculator, Adler provides a link to one provided by her mentor, Joseph Yu:
Use the Four Pillars Chart Calculator.
[...] It could be said that the Five Types of Qi are the building blocks to the world as we know it like amino acids are to protein.
The Five Types of Qi are named Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. They are not the actual items of wood, etc., but
they act like their namesakes. These Five Types of Qi also have their yin and yang attributes. Yin is the quieter of the two while Yang is the more active of the two. This is easy to understand because we all
have our quiet times and our active times.
Yang Wood is like a tree, tall, sturdy, stubborn, and ever growing upward.
Yin Wood is like a shrub or grass, tactful and unyielding, ever growing. Yin Wood is actually stronger than Yang Wood because Yin Wood is more graceful and knows how to bend under pressure then come back
strong, but not break like Yang Wood.
Yang Fire is like a forest fire, hot, burning high without stopping.
Yin Fire is like a furnace fire, hot, burning slowly, giving heat without scorching.
Yang Earth is hard, crusty soil like the ground in a desert with no rain for a long period of time.
Yin Earth is like garden soil, fluffy and loamy, rich in nutrients to grow wonderful food.
Yang Metal is outward piercing, intelligence that needs to know everything, aggressive and strong.
Yin Metal is inward looking, intelligence that has wisdom, beautiful and powerful.
Yang Water is like an ocean, deep and very active with many waves.
Yin Water is like a lake, deep and calm on the surface but strong currents underneath.
These types of Qi also come in combinations that we call the '12 animals'. The 12 animals are the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.
There are four 'pillars' in the Four Pillars of Destiny Chart. Each pillar has an animal at the bottom and one of the Five Types of Qi in Yin or Yang expression at the top.
The first pillar is calculated on the year of birth so it is called the "Year Pillar".
The second pillar is calculated on the month of birth so it is called the "Month Pillar".
The third pillar is calculated on the day of birth so it is called the "Day Pillar".
The fourth pillar is calculated on the hour of birth so it is called the "Hour Pillar".
The Five Types of Qi in their Yin and Yang expressions are called "The Ten Heavenly Stems" and the 12 Animals are called "The Twelve Earthly Branches". The qi interacts in specific ways with each
other, just like we do in groups of people or families. The qi does all kinds of things like combine, clash, strengthen, weaken, assist, and control.
Four Pillars Calculator and Interpretation Guide — Free.
The Four Pillars of Destiny astrologer can look at these interactions and tell you your destiny. Reading the chart can
tell the family background, the relationship with the parents, grandparents, children, and marriage as well as how you function in the public, with superiors, peers, and subordinates.
The most important Pillar is the Day Pillar. The stem (top) is the Day Master. That is you – your spirit. The branch (bottom) is the marriage palace. It will tell you the quality of your marriage.
The Month Pillar is called the Parents Palace. It is where you can see the relationship between you and your parents. You can also read your childhood in this pillar and there will be an indication of the type of
family in which you grew up.
The Hour Pillar is called the Children Palace. It is where you can see the relationship between you and your children. This can also tell you about your old age.
The Year Pillar is called the Grandparents Palace. It is where you can see the relationship between you and your grandparents. It can also represent your family background and society. This can show subtle
impacts on a person's achievement. [...]
[...]
The chinese SOLAR calendar is used to calculate a four pillar chart. We also need to know the longitude of the birthplace in order to adjust the time of birth to true local time. If daylight savings
time was in effect in certain parts of the world, this must also be taken into account. [...] The person whose chart is being analysed is called the daymaster (DM).
Year Pillar: Family background and society.
Month Pillar: Early childhood and relationship with parents.
Day Pillar: The daymaster (DM) and relationship with spouse/partner.
Hour Pillar: Career, relationship with children and old age.
Each element/phase in a chart represents a specific person or opportunity of action in the DM's life. These "energies" are commonly known as "gods" or "deities" for lack of a better word. In fact, because
they are abstract and not physical beings you can call them anything as long as you understand their meaning, function and character. There are a total of ten stems and therefore there are a total of ten gods/deities.
Within each earthly branch there are one or more "hidden stems" and these also become gods/deities.
These gods or deities are sometimes able to combine or clash with other deities in a chart or with luck pillars and it is this kind of interaction that allows an astrologer to tell the story of a person's life.
Each chart is as unique as the person.
Support
The element/phase that produces the day master
Friends
The same element/phase as the day master
Ambition
The element/phase that controls the day master. Also husband for a female.
Wealth
The element/phase that the day master controls. Also wife for a male.
Intelligence
The element/phase that the day master produces
From a chart, you are able to plot 10 year (big) luck pillars which will indicate what influences are prevalent in the DM's life and advise the correct action appropriate for that luck period. Luck pillars can
further be broken down into five year luck periods and even annual luck periods.
Chinese astrology can also be used to select the most suitable date for the action that you may want to take, e.g. the best date for opening a business, changing jobs, moving house, getting married etc.
Compatibility of business partners and prospective marriage partners can also be analysed.
Example of a Four Pillar Chart
Male born in Cape Town, South Africa on 13 May 1952 at 16h48. After adjustment to true local time, the birth time becomes 15h59.
HOUR
DAY
MONTH
YEAR
Heavenly Stem
Yang Water
Yin Earth
Yin Wood
Yang Water
Earthly Branch
Monkey
Goat
Snake
Dragon
Hidden Stem (god)
yang metal
yin earth
yang fire
yang earth
Hidden Stem (god)
yang water
yin fire
yang earth
yin wood
Hidden Stem (god)
yang earth
yin wood
yang metal
yin water
The heavenly stem in the day pillar is the day master (DM). The day master is born in the month of the snake when fire and earth are strong. There is one yin fire and one yang fire to support the earth day master.
He has earth elements/phases in all four of the earthly branches. There are two metals, four water and three wood to drain and control the DM. Suffice to say that when we take the life stages of the elements in this
chart into account, earth and fire still come out the strongest. Therefore we can say that this is a Strong Yin Earth Day Master. The summer (fire) season is hot and dry and this chart needs moisture. The yang water
in the stems as well as the water roots in the branches are available and this becomes the most favourable element for the day master. During years and luck pillars when water appears the day master will be able to
achieve well and luck will be on his side. Metal is favourable. He already has too much earth in his chart so in years and luck pillars when earth appears, he should not take unnecessary risks because luck will not
be on his side. Wood and fire are unfavourable.
This day master is diligent, but a little unorganised. He is trustworthy and broadminded. He is stubborn and should work on having empathy for others. He will be tempted to work in a competitive environment,
but this would be a mistake. He should avoid partnerships in business - it will not have a good ending. He will be most successful in a career where he can make use of his communication skills. A monetary/financial
environment is also good for him. Wealth is his friend, but he has competitors who want to compete with him for it. He is capable of finding a good woman and he treats her as an equal. An independent woman who
does not suffocate him with doting support would be a good wife for him. He should try not to be so stubborn and show more sympathy, then his relationship will be good. He is capable of doing well in his career
and his relationship with his subordinates and children are very good. His parents showed him discipline and gave him good support, but the relationship is not a close one. He comes from a fairly good family
background and he interacts well with society at large. [...]
NOTE: The following subsection examines the Day Master, Hour, experimental Moon Pillar
and more, referencing my own Four Pillars chart. You can jump ahead to the next section, Personality types based on the Five Elements.
An example...
The table below is my Four Pillars chart, calculated with the shareware version of the above Four Pillars & Feng Shui 4.2 tool. The four core results (Hour, Day, Month, Year)
appear as in the online version but, below, I've included two additional variables: the Moon Pillar (phase at time of
birth) and the Moon Hour: these are experimental, more descriptive of how one "feels". The Moon branch is Rat at dark moon, and, in my case, born under the Balsamic Moon, just before the New Moon, that seems about
right. Some Rat characteristics may thus apply, but the actual position of the Moon at birth is correlated with the Yang Wood Dragon which is, I "feel", a very interesting result.
If you create your own chart with the online version — though the form indicates that these data are optional — you should input your (1) time zone; (2) your precise longitude, using decimal for minutes
(e.g. -85.6 for 86º36' West); and (3) time of birth, in Standard Time. This is particularly important should your birth time be close to the turn of the hour, as in my case. If these data are not entered, the generated
values may be different, especially with respect to the Hour. NOTE: If you download the 30-day free trial here, the
calculation includes birth time, longitude and latitude — the professional version generates the most correct result (pers.comm. Danny Van den Berghe, fourpillars.net, 23 January 2012).
Life
Conception
Moon
Moon Hour
Hour
Day Master Day
Month
Year
Yang Wood [Jia]
Yang Water [Ren]
Yang Wood [Jia]
Yang Metal [Geng]
Yang Water [Ren]
Yin Metal [Xin]
Yin Metal [Xin]
Yang Metal [Geng]
Monkey [Shen]
Monkey [Shen]
Rat [Zi]
Dragon [Chen]
Dragon [Chen]
Pig [Hai]
Snake [Si]
Tiger [Yin]
Yang Earth [Wu] (60)
Yang Water [Ren] (35)
Yang Fire [Bing] (60)
Yang Wood [Jia] (30)
Yin Wood [Yi] (10)
Yang Wood [Jia] (15)
Yang Earth [Wu] (20)
Yang Fire [Bing] (20)
Yin Water [Gui] (10)
Yang Metal [Geng] (16)
Yang Earth [Wu] (20)
For example, without exact data, my Hour is Yin Water Snake; with it, since my birth time is within 10 minutes of the change of the hour, the Hour is Yang Water Dragon. Not fully conversant with
the Chinese system, I found this result surprising. Relative to career, Snake and
Dragon can and may pursue somewhat similar paths, but Yin Water and Yang Water have very different orientations.
Hour of the Snake (Yin Metal), Month of the Snake (Yin Metal), and Year of the Tiger (Yang Metal) were familiar to me, forming something of an identity construct — intuitive, introspective, highly introverted loner
are good descriptors, among other Snake-type proclivities, of my behavior over the past many years. Yang Water Dragon has come as something of a revelation, better describing what I actually work at.
Day Master Strength Calculation
Here we see a DM strength calculation, plus/minus for each of the five elements, and another small table to find the the favorable and unfavorable elements.
In normal cases the most favorable element will be ranked #1 and the least favorable will be #5.
If Resource and Parallel take up more than half of the pie, the Day Master is probably strong, otherwise it is likely weak.
Source: Four Pillars & Feng Shui 4.2
Yin Metal Pig, however, has come as a complete surprise. The Day Master (Heavenly Stem: Yin Metal) supposedly represents "me", my underlying nature — Yin Metal is inward looking, intelligence that has
wisdom, beauty and power... (Adler, op.cit.), as in awareness of the daimonic. I can appreciate the relevance of those descriptors, previously condensed in terms of Snake, construed as my Month
and Hour signs. The Day Pillar was unknown to me, and is a most enlightening addition to the identity construct of this period. Four Pillars has broadened and deepened my appreciation of an internal reality. Where
I have been a loner in recent years, perhaps the time has come to accept the Yin Metal Pig and recapture the energies of the Yang Water Dragon, hidden from view in my embrace of the Snake. What an astonishing realization,
as transiting Uranus approaches conjunction with my Midheaven and North Node in early Aries...
Another online calculator, helps identify the "lucky element(s)". When the Five Elements are
in balance they act in harmony; when out of balance, they cause problems. Work on the "lucky element(s)", usually the element(s) with the lowest score or weight, can bring the Five Elements into balance
and correct problems.
From the following chart we can see that the element with the lowest score is Water:
Metal
Water
Wood
Fire
Earth
56
45
65
46
58
Water is chosen as the lucky element, in this case, because "the Five Elements have a better shape when the weight of Water increases".* The implication is that, by working on water, other
aspects of life will be strengthened.
Note that Water also has the low score (40) in the previous image dealing with Day Master strength, but the least favorable element is Metal and the most favorable
are Wood and Fire — Water is ranked in the middle.
Each animal also has a predominate natural element assigned to it - compatibility between this natural element and the yearly element is a key factor in determining whether a year will be auspicious or not. It
is also very important to understand how the elements relate to each other by looking at the cycle of construction and destruction, as follows:
Constructive Elemental Cycle [Sheng]
Wood → Fire → Earth → Metal → Water → Wood
Destructive Elemental Cycle [K'o]
Water → Fire → Metal → Wood → Earth → Water
In the constructive cycle, we say that wood creates fire which creates earth and so forth. This uses the positive manifestations of each of the elements and shows basic
compatibility. For instance, a person born in a wood year would have an elemental compatibility with a water or fire year. In the reverse, water puts out fire, which destroys metal,
which chops wood, which depletes the earth, which is washed away by water. Two elements next to each other in this cycle are NOT compatible. [...]
I am a White Yang Metal Tiger,
Day Master = Yin Metal (Metal ⇒ Water),
Black Yang Water Dragon
and Water is my lucky element...
This augurs well for 2012.
Identifying your Ming Gua — finding your favorable and unfavorable directions
Ming Gua is thought to describe the type of qi that surrounds and helps protect you in your environment. Your Ming Gua (Life Trigram), one of the Ba Gua, eight trigrams representing the fundamental aspects of reality, is assigned according
to your year of birth year. It is used to identify the directions that are favorable and unfavorable for you. The calculation is based on the Chinese Solar Calendar, in which the year usually begins on the 4th of February.
If you were born before the 4th of February, use the previous year for your calculation. For example, if you were born 10 January 1975, use the year 1974.
[...] WOOD TYPES
Wood types tend to be ambitious, have strong Type A personalities, and high vitality. They love life, and are so eager to succeed they can be highly competitive. Wood types are apt to be leaders in their fields,
CEOs of big companies, or elite athletes. They are extroverted, and have a strong sense of hope, vision, and purpose. However, Wood types are so driven they tend to manifest conditions due to stress—such as high
blood pressure, premenstrual syndrome, breast and ovarian cysts, headaches, and tight muscles. On an emotional level, too much work may thwart their usual sense of purpose in life, and they can become angry or
depressed.
If you are a Wood Type, keep your element balanced by taking time to replenish your energy with relaxing activities that quiet your mind like yoga, tai chi, and meditation. Create playtime in which the journey is more
important than the goal, eat healthy food, avoid alcohol, and indulge in sour-tasting foods (which are beneficial to Wood types). As I often tell my patients who are Wood types, the most important thing to remember
is that attaining and maintaining great health will allow you more success in reaching your life goals.
FIRE TYPES
Fire types are fun, charismatic people who have a great deal of enthusiasm for whatever they are involved in. They are full of love and passion, seek out drama, and thrive on travel. They also enjoy expressing themselves
verbally, and often speak rapidly. Fire types tend to laugh a lot, even when they are talking about something that isn’t funny. When it comes to relationships, Fire types have an enormous amount of social energy; a
seemingly boundless capacity for interacting with others.
When Fire types have too much excitement in their lives, they can experience anxiety, heart palpitations, insomnia, and depression. When women who are Fire types are in peri-menopause or menopause, they are likely to
have hot flashes or night sweats more often than other women. If you are a Fire Type, I recommend you balance your element by creating a schedule that includes time to nurture yourself. Spend time alone each day to
write in your journal or meditate. It’s also important to stay clear about what is important in your life and what isn’t. Remember to eat regular meals, don’t allow yourself to get too hungry, and limit your intake
of spicy foods.
EARTH TYPES
Earth types are compassionate, loving people who are apt to be nurturers and caretakers. They have a tendency to feel deeply compassionate toward other people, even strangers, and welcome all types of people into
their lives. Because of their understanding nature, they are natural arbitrators who can resolve disputes between others quickly and effectively. Earth types have a strong connection with the earth, and they feel
a great sense of comfort and peace when they are in nature. As a result, they are inclined to be environmentalists and conservationists. They also find solace in eating, and have a sweet tooth.
We have all of the five elements within us, but one element usually dominates and can have a profound effect on our vitality. Each element is associated with particular
physiological tendencies, emotional needs, psychological traits, and spiritual qualities. Knowing our dominant element can help us make healthier choices when it comes
to diet, career, relationships, and lifestyle. — Laurie Steelsmith ND (2004)
When Earth types give too much and neglect themselves, they are prone to digestive problems, food allergies, heartburn, fatigue, PMS, and easy weight gain. If you are an Earth type, imbalances in your life can
also cause you to become excessively needy for love, affection, and attention. At the same time, you can become so sympathetic to other people’s needs that you try to take care of them in ways that may ultimately
prevent them from figuring out how to take care of themselves. To keep yourself in balance, I suggest you surround yourself with loving friends, maintain healthy emotional boundaries between yourself and others,
say “no” when you need to, and avoid eating too many sweets.
METAL TYPES
Metal types are quiet, meditative, intellectually sharp, spiritually inclined, and unusually creative. They seek perfection in everything that they do, and they are likely to be serious artists and craftspeople.
They are self-disciplined, detail-oriented, and will naturally spend endless hours in a deep, almost trancelike state of concentration while they are involved in the creation of their art. In their personal
relationships, they dislike small talk and they are usually very committed to a small number of people. Physically, Metal types have a fast metabolism and they often crave spicy foods.
If you are a Metal type, when your life is not in harmony you are apt to have upper respiratory infections and skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. I highly recommend that you keep yourself in balance by
doing regular aerobic exercise to enhance the health of your lungs, exploring your creativity, eating regular meals, and making sure that you maintain creative outlets for stress.
WATER TYPES
Water types are seekers of wisdom. In their youth, they typically possess a quality of being “wise beyond their years.” As adults, Water types are known for being unusually deep thinkers, always searching for
truth and meaning. If you are a Water type, you are a philosopher, comfortable in the world of your mind, and you often prefer your own thoughts to a superficial dialogue with other people. You are strong-willed,
and seek out quiet, tranquil environments. Physically you are healthy, vigorous, and have enormous willpower and a tremendous capacity for endurance.
If you are a Water type and you spend too much time alone, or in “survival mode,” you tend to manifest conditions associated with the kidneys and bladder. On an emotional level, when imbalanced your normally deep
reservoir of inner strength can spill over into fear. I frequently advise my patients who are Water types to keep themselves in balance by drinking plenty of fluids and socializing regularly so they don’t become
too emotionally isolated. [...]
Personality characteristics and compatibilities among the 12 signs
Dragon and...
under the same roof
compatibility
Rat
take pride in each other
****
Ox
not much understanding
*
Tiger
many thrills
***
Rabbit
contesting viewpoints
*
Dragon
like mother like daughter
****
Snake
little problems
****
Horse
different attitudes
**
Sheep
too delicate
*
Monkey
mutually satisfying
****
Rooster
few clashes of temperament
***
Dog
problems arise
*
Pig
get along, but hard work
**
* uphill struggle ** some complications *** easy bonding **** on the same wavelength
Source:Dragon
Webbing Planning Institute, Lovegevity Inc. Formerly USBridalGuide.com. Accessed 14.01.12. Adapted.
See esp:Chinese Zodiac Compatibility
Source:Personalities
Chinese Zodiac, Wikipedia. Accessed 14 January 2012. Adapted.
The zodiac traditionally begins with the sign of the Rat, and there are many stories about the origins of the Chinese Zodiac which explain why this is so (see below). The following are the twelve
zodiac signs (each with its associated Earthly branch) in order and their
characteristics.
Rat (Yang, 1st Trine,
Fixed ElementWater): Forthright, tenacious, intense,
meticulous, charismatic, sensitive, intellectual, industrious, charming, eloquent, sociable, artistic, and shrewd. Can be manipulative,
vindictive, self-destructive, envious, mendacious, venal, obstinate, critical, over-ambitious, ruthless, intolerant, and scheming.
Ox
(Water buffalo
in Vietnam) (Yin, 2nd Trine, Fixed Element Water): Dependable, ambitious, calm, methodical, born leader, patient, hardworking, conventional,
steady, modest, logical, resolute, tenacious. Can be stubborn, dogmatic, hot-tempered, narrow-minded, materialistic, rigid, demanding.
Tiger (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element
Wood): Unpredictable, rebellious, colorful, powerful, passionate, daring,
impulsive, vigorous, stimulating, sincere, affectionate, humanitarian, generous. Can be restless, reckless, impatient, quick-tempered, obstinate, selfish, aggressive, moody.
Rabbit (Cat in Vietnam) (Yin, 4th Trine,
Fixed Element Wood): Gracious, good friend, kind, sensitive, soft-spoken, amiable,
elegant, reserved, cautious, artistic, thorough, tender, self-assured, shy, astute, compassionate, lucky, flexible. Can be moody, detached, superficial, self-indulgent, opportunistic, stubborn.
Snake (Yin, 2nd Trine, Fixed Element Fire):
Deep thinker, wise, mystic, graceful, soft-spoken, sensual, creative, prudent, shrewd, elegant, cautious, responsible, calm, strong, constant, purposeful. Can be loner, bad communicator, possessive,
hedonistic, self-doubting, distrustful, mendacious, suffocating, cold.
Horse (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element Fire): Cheerful, popular, quick-witted, changeable, earthy, perceptive, talkative,
agile, magnetic, intelligent, astute, flexible, open-minded. Can be fickle, arrogant, childish, anxious, rude, gullible, stubborn.
Sheep (Yin, 4th Trine, Fixed Element Fire): Righteous, sincere, sympathetic, mild-mannered, shy, artistic,
mothering, peaceful, generous, seeks security. Can be indecisive, over-passive, worrier, pessimistic, over-sensitive, complainer, weak-willed.
Monkey (Yang, 1st Trine, Fixed Element
Metal): Inventor, motivator, improviser, quick-witted, inquisitive, flexible, innovative,
problem solver, self-assured, sociable, artistic, polite, dignified, competitive, objective, factual, intellectual. Can be egotistical, vain, arrogant, selfish, reckless, snobbish, deceptive,
manipulative, cunning, jealous, suspicious.
Rooster (Yin, 2nd Trine, Fixed Element Metal): Acute, neat, meticulous, organized, self-assured, decisive, conservative, critical, perfectionist,
alert, zealous, practical, scientific, responsible. Can be over zealous and critical, puritanical, egotistical, abrasive, proud, opinionated, given to empty bravado.
Dog (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element Metal): Honest, intelligent, straightforward, loyal, sense of justice and fair play, attractive, amicable, unpretentious, sociable, open-minded,
idealistic, moralistic, practical, affectionate, sensitive, easy going. Can be cynical, lazy, cold, judgmental, pessimistic, worrier, stubborn, quarrelsome.
Pig (Boar in Japan and
Elephant in Northern Thailand)
(Yin, 4th Trine, Fixed Element Water): Honest, gallant, sturdy, sociable, peace-loving, patient, loyal, hard-working, trusting, sincere, calm, understanding, thoughtful, scrupulous,
passionate, intelligent. Can be naïve, over-reliant, self-indulgent, gullible, fatalistic, materialistic.
In Chinese astrology the animal signs assigned by year represent what others perceive you as being or how you present yourself. It is a common misconception that the animals assigned by year are the only signs
and many western descriptions of Chinese astrology draw solely on this system. In fact, there are also animal signs assigned by month (called inner animals), by day (called true animals) and hours (called
secret animals).
While a person might appear to be a Dragon because they were born in the year of the Dragon, they might also be a
Snake internally, an Ox truly and
Sheep secretively. In total, this makes for 103,680 possible combinations (60 year cycle
(5 elements × 12 animals) × 12 months × 12 days × 12 periods of the day) that a person might be. [...]
What's in store, and how do the signs fare in the year of the Dragon?
IT’S the time of the year once again for our annual feng shui predictions. Some, of course, regard feng shui as mere “hocus-pocus” or a lapse into mass delusion, and others still laugh it off as mere amusement,
and that’s OK. But for true believers, and they are legion, the stars and their placements definitely have some bearing on our lives, transforming this ancient Chinese art and science of geomancy into a
multimillion-dollar industry. That’s why this story is a much-awaited event. [...]
The general outlook
FAR from being the last year on planet Earth, 2012 will be a transformative year, says Allen, who believes it will be a better year than that of the Metal Rabbit. “The Year of the Water Dragon is a year of
transformation. Expect a shift in various aspects of the economy and the world in general. Be ready for growth potential,” she says, adding that the Dragon symbolizes power and strength.
Chau agrees that, generally, there are more good tidings for the year 2012 than 2011. He says it will be a good year for self-improvement, calculated investment risks and wealth-building, although competition
may nip some opportunities in the bud.
The year 2012 holds much promise and may be a major transition period in life, according to Fengshuimall.com. Whether it turns out extremely good or really bad, however, depends on how individuals comport themselves
amid the presence of the mighty Water Dragon.
Credit: BusinessMirror.com.ph
Keep the fire burning: Stars of 2012
THE three powerful stars of 2012 are the Star of the Aggressive Sword, the Star of the External Flower of Romance, and the Star of Powerful Mentors. The Star of Aggressive Sword brings hostility, violence and
aggression. Anger will pervade among some in the work force, forceful words will be spoken and people will become uncompromising. Revolutions and rebellions are indicated. Perhaps there may be repeat occurrences
of the Occupy Movement, the contemporary version of the ’60s sit-in, happening elsewhere. The Star of the Aggressive Sword was also foretold by Time’s decision to unfold their latest Person of the Year: the protester.
Expect that person to show up again this year.
Meanwhile, business and the corporate world will become more demanding and competitive as people are driven to outperform and step on others to achieve their
goals. In addition, Allen says that the country may experience more natural calamities this year.
However, the ills of the Star of the Aggressive Sword may be cured by the Laughing Buddha that disperses tension. On a pragmatic note, this means that laughter and happiness are still the best tools to drive
out bad energy.
Second, the presence of the Star of External Flower of Romance foretells infidelity, extramarital distress and relationship problems. Long-term relationships and marriages will be the most afflicted. Allen, however,
believes in a different interpretation of the Star of External Flower of Romance. She says that 2012 will be a year of amour, thanks to the dominating presence of the star. “It will be a great year for singles and
newlyweds. It will also be an excellent year for having a baby.” Allen warns that the Dog-born are the most likely to encounter extra-marital affairs. She cautions people to be wary of sex scandals and advises lovers
not to take each other for granted.
Last, the Star of Powerful Mentors bodes as a good sign for those seeking to reach career highs and business successes. Expect influential people to give support, help and
recognition. However, despite these stars, the fire element seems to be lacking in 2012. This missing element is supposed to spur creativity and intelligence which are vital ingredients to complete one’s mojo.
To overcome this shortage, people are advised to introduce the fire element into their homes and places of work. This may be done by adding more light sources and by keeping them lit for a longer time. People
are also advised to wear red or red-orange.
We now turn to the individual forecasts for the 12 animal signs, and note that the Tiger, Rabbit, Horse and Sheep are deemed the lucky animals this year. [...] [Read the forecast for your year sign]
One calendar cycle is 60 years. There are 12 Animal Signs in the Chinese Lunar Zodiac, and the Wu Xing (Five Phases or Elements: Wood, Fire, Metal, Water, Earth) further distinguish each of these, making 12 x 5 = 60 different signs.
Year
Element
Animal
Year
1924– 1983
1984– 2043
Feb 05 1924 — Jan 23 1925
Yang Wood
Green Rat
Feb 02 1984 — Feb 19 1985
Jan 24 1925 — Feb 12 1926
Yin Wood
Green Ox
Feb 20 1985 — Feb 08 1986
Feb 13 1926 — Feb 01 1927
Yang Fire
Red Tiger
Feb 01 1986 — Jan 28 1987
Feb 02 1927 — Jan 22 1928
Yin Fire
Red Rabbit
Jan 29 1987 — Feb 16 1988
Jan 23 1928 — Feb 09 1929
Yang Earth
Brown Dragon
Feb 17 1988 — Feb 05 1989
Feb 10 1929 — Jan 29 1930
Yin Earth
Brown Snake
Feb 06 1989 — Jan 26 1990
Jan 30 1930 — Feb 16 1931
Yang Metal
White Horse
Jan 27 1990 — Feb 14 1991
Feb 17 1931 — Feb 05 1932
Yin Metal
White Goat
Feb 15 1991 — Feb 03 1992
Feb 06 1932 — Jan 25 1933
Yang Water
Black Monkey
Feb 04 1992 — Jan 22 1993
Jan 26 1933 — Feb 13 1934
Yin Water
Black Rooster
Jan 23 1993 — Feb 09 1994
Feb 14 1934 — Feb 03 1935
Yang Wood
Green Dog
Feb 10 1994 — Jan 30 1995
Feb 04 1935 — Jan 23 1936
Yin Wood
Green Pig
Jan 31 1995 — Feb 18 1996
Jan 24 1936 — Feb 10 1937
Yang Fire
Red Rat
Feb 19 1996 — Feb 06 1997
Feb 11 1937 — Jan 30 1938
Yin Fire
Red Ox
Feb 07 1997 — Jan 27 1998
Jan 31 1938 — Feb 18 1939
Yang Earth
Brown Tiger
Jan 28 1998 — Feb 15 1999
Feb 19 1939 — Feb 07 1940
Yin Earth
Brown Rabbit
Feb 16 1999 — Feb 04 2000
Feb 08 1940 — Jan 26 1941
Yang Metal
White Dragon
Feb 05 2000 — Jan 23 2001
Jan 27 1941 — Feb 14 1942
Yin Metal
White Snake
Jan 24 2001 — Feb 11 2002
Feb 15 1942 — Feb 04 1943
Yang Water
Black Horse
Feb 12 2002 — Jan 31 2003
Feb 05 1943 — Jan 24 1944
Yin Water
Black Goat
Feb 01 2003 — Jan 21 2004
Jan 25 1944 — Feb 12 1945
Yang Wood
Green Monkey
Jan 22 2004 — Feb 08 2005
Feb 13 1945 — Feb 01 1946
Yin Wood
Green Rooster
Feb 09 2005 — Jan 28 2006
Feb 02 1946 — Jan 21 1947
Yang Fire
Red Dog
Jan 29 2006 — Feb 17 2007
Jan 22 1947 — Feb 09 1948
Yin Fire
Red Pig
Feb 18 2007 — Feb 06 2008
Feb 10 1948 — Jan 28 1949
Yang Earth
Brown Rat
Feb 07 2008 — Jan 25 2009
Jan 29 1949 — Feb 16 1950
Yin Earth
Brown Ox
Jan 26 2009 — Feb 13 2010
Feb 17 1950 — Feb 05 1951
Yang Metal
White Tiger
Feb 14 2010 — Feb 02 2011
Feb 06 1951 — Jan 26 1952
Yin Metal
White Rabbit
Feb 03 2011 — Jan 22 2012
Jan 27 1952 — Feb 13 1953
Yang Water
Black Dragon
Jan 23 2012 — Feb 09 2013
Feb 14 1953 — Feb 02 1954
Yin Water
Black Snake
Feb 10 2013 — Jan 30 2014
Feb 03 1954 — Jan 23 1955
Yang Wood
Green Horse
Jan 31 2014 — Feb 18 2015
Jan 24 1955 — Feb 11 1956
Yin Wood
Green Goat
Feb 19 2015 — Feb 07 2016
Feb 12 1956 — Jan 30 1957
Yang Fire
Red Monkey
Feb 08 2016 — Jan 27 2017
Jan 31 1957 — Feb 17 1958
Yin Fire
Red Rooster
Jan 28 2017 — Feb 18 2018
Feb 18 1958 — Feb 07 1959
Yang Earth
Brown Dog
Feb 19 2018 — Feb 04 2019
Feb 08 1959 — Jan 27 1960
Yin Earth
Brown Pig
Feb 05 2019 — Jan 24 2020
Jan 28 1960 — Feb 14 1961
Yang Metal
White Rat
Jan 25 2020 — Feb 11 2021
Feb 15 1961 — Feb 04 1962
Yin Metal
White Ox
Feb 12 2021 — Jan 31 2022
Feb 05 1962 — Jan 24 1963
Yang Water
Black Tiger
Feb 01 2022 — Jan 21 2023
Jan 25 1963 — Feb 12 1964
Yin Water
Black Rabbit
Jan 22 2023 — Feb 09 2024
Feb 13 1964 — Feb 01 1965
Yang Wood
Green Dragon
Feb 10 2024 — Jan 28 2025
Feb 02 1965 — Jan 20 1966
Yin Wood
Green Snake
Jan 29 2025 — Feb 16 2026
Jan 21 1966 — Feb 08 1967
Yang Fire
Red Horse
Feb 17 2026 — Feb 05 2027
Feb 09 1967 — Jan 29 1968
Yin Fire
Red Goat
Feb 06 2027 — Jan 25 2028
Jan 30 1968 — Feb 16 1969
Yang Earth
Brown Monkey
Jan 26 2028 — Feb 12 2029
Feb 17 1969 — Feb 05 1970
Yin Earth
Brown Rooster
Feb 13 2029 — Feb 02 2030
Feb 06 1970 — Jan 26 1971
Yang Metal
White Dog
Feb 03 2030 — Jan 22 2031
Jan 27 1971 — Feb 14 1972
Yin Metal
White Pig
Jan 23 2031 — Feb 10 2032
Feb 15 1972 — Feb 02 1973
Yang Water
Black Rat
Feb 11 2032 — Jan 30 2033
Feb 03 1973 — Jan 22 1974
Yin Water
Black Ox
Jan 31 2033 — Feb 18 2034
Jan 23 1974 — Feb 10 1975
Yang Wood
Green Tiger
Feb 19 2034 — Feb 07 2035
Feb 11 1975 — Jan 30 1976
Yin Wood
Green Rabbit
Feb 08 2035 — Jan 27 2036
Jan 31 1976 — Feb 17 1977
Yang Fire
Red Dragon
Jan 28 2036 — Feb 14 2037
Feb 18 1977 — Feb 06 1978
Yin Fire
Red Snake
Feb 15 2037 — Feb 03 2038
Feb 07 1978 — Jan 27 1979
Yang Earth
Brown Horse
Feb 04 2038 — Jan 23 2039
Jan 28 1979 — Feb 15 1980
Yin Earth
Brown Goat
Jan 24 2039 — Feb 11 2040
Feb 16 1980 — Feb 04 1981
Yang Metal
White Monkey
Feb 12 2040 — Jan 31 2041
Feb 05 1981 — Jan 24 1982
Yin Metal
White Rooster
Feb 01 2041 — Jan 21 2042
Jan 25 1982 — Feb 12 1983
Yang Water
Black Dog
Jan 22 2042 — Feb 09 2043
Feb 13 1983 — Feb 01 1984
Yin Water
Black Pig
Feb 10 2043 — Jan 29 2044
Year ending in 0 is Yang Metal.
Year ending in 1 is Yin Metal.
Year ending in 2 is Yang Water.
Year ending in 3 is Yin Water.
Year ending in 4 is Yang Wood.
Year ending in 5 is Yin Wood.
Year ending in 6 is Yang Fire.
Year ending in 7 is Yin Fire.
Year ending in 8 is Yang Earth.
Year ending in 9 is Yin Earth.
Intraspec.ca : Tools for Personal Development — Readings, writings and research on matters of health and well-being.
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Day Master Strength Calculation
Ba Gua and basic descriptors, compiled from multiple sources, adapted from the King Wen "Later Heaven" Ba Gua arrangement. The center is Taiji ( great pole → Supreme Ultimate ), accorded the number 5, with no trigram.
For more detail, see e.g. 
