Bazi: Understanding Chinese Astrology Bazi, also known as the Four Pillars of Destiny, is an ancient Chinese system used to understand an individual's destiny, personality, and future prospects. It is based on the idea that a person's life is influenced by the five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water) and the ten heavenly stems and twelve earthly branches, commonly referred to as the "eight characters" or "eight pillars." Each person's bazi is unique and is determined by the date and time of their birth. The eight pillars are divided into four columns, which represent the year, month, day, and hour of birth. Each column is made up of one heavenly stem and one earthly branch. By analyzing a person's bazi, a Chinese astrologer can determine their strengths and weaknesses, as well as identify the most auspicious periods for important life events, such as marriage, career advancement, and business ventures. The four columns of bazi also represent the four aspects of life: health, relationships, wealth, and career. Bazi is not just limited to Chinese astrology. It is also used in feng shui, traditional Chinese medicine, and martial arts. For example, in feng shui, bazi can be used to determine which direction a person should face when they sleep or work to promote better health and success. In traditional Chinese medicine, bazi can give insights into which organs may be vulnerable to disease or imbalance. In martial arts, bazi can be used to match opponents of similar strength and weakness. Overall, bazi is a powerful tool for self-discovery and understanding one's destiny. It is a complex system that requires years of study and practice to master. However, even a basic understanding of bazi can offer valuable insights into one's life and provide guidance for a more fulfilling future.