WIND & WATER

The 12 Earthly Branches

 

 

The best way of looking at the Earthly Branches is as codes for the Yin and Yang versions of the 5 elements. The animals are simply codes for the Five Elements and their Yin and Yang Manifestations.

 

The Earthly Branches are like the roots of a tree--they are foundation of the Pillar. They carry more strength than the Heavenly Stems and play an important role in Ba Zi analysis. This is why a "clash" in the Earthly Branch is considered more severe than a clash in the Heavenly Stems. The elements in each Pillar must be harmonious and balanced.