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The application of the metaphorical aspects of Stems to varying situations allows individuals to garner valuable insights. It is one of the foundational concepts within the Qi Men Dun Jia system, playing a significant role in the analysis of a Qi Men Dun Jia chart. Alongside the Eight Doors and Stars, understanding the Stems is crucial to achieving an accurate interpretation in a Qi Men Dun Jia chart, as they provide metaphorical representations of various life situations and offer insight into potential problem-solving approaches and other practical applications.

Originating from Chinese military strategies, the essence of Qi Men Dun Jia is perhaps best captured in its espoused principle: “Devising strategies within a command tent, determines successes miles away”. Within the scope of this ancient art form, this saying highlights the importance of planning and foresight in achieving victories that extend beyond the present moment. As such, this secretive art was used by emperors and their advisors for strategic planning and decision-making during times of war.

Stems in Qi Men Dun Jia

Jia Wood (甲木): Jia Wood, associated with the Wood element, symbolises leadership, growth, and authority. In Qi Men Dun Jia, it is often likened to the king and represents the asker seeking guidance and clarity in decision-making. In a contemporary context, this may reflect in financial matters where the presence of Jia Wood signifies the necessity of a strong and decisive leader to make informed decisions.

Yi Wood (乙木): Yi Wood, associated with the Wood element, is metaphorically depicted within the Qi Men Dun Jia system as Jia’s sister. This Stem embodies diplomacy, adaptability, and the power of compromise. For instance, when facing challenges represented by Geng Metal, Yi Wood advises diplomatic solutions, compromise, and a gentle approach to resolving conflicts.

Bing Fire (丙火): Associated with the Fire element, Bing Fire is metaphorically seen as a military general. It embodies courage, determination, and a direct approach to challenges. It signifies overcoming obstacles with a strong and assertive mindset. For instance, when initiating a new project or venture, Bing Fire promotes bold and decisive action, displaying confidence and assertiveness in pursuing goals.

Ding Fire (丁火): This stem metaphorically represents the daughter — symbolising intelligence, and highlighting strategic thinking and adaptability. For instance, when encountering hidden problems represented by Xin Metal, Ding Fire advises employing strategic thinking, carefully analysing the situation, and using indirect methods to uncover and address the underlying issues.

Wu Earth (戊土): Wu Earth embodies stability, practicality, and effective resource management. It promotes a grounded and reliable approach to problem-solving and decision-making. For instance, in financial matters, Wu Earth meticulous resource management, and the establishment of a stable foundation to achieve long-term success.

Ji Earth (己土): Ji Earth, associated with the Earth element, symbolises the importance of caution, attention to detail, and awareness of potential pitfalls. It signifies the need for meticulousness and thoroughness in problem-solving and decision-making. For example, when assessing business partnerships or investment opportunities, Ji Earth serves as a reminder to exercise caution, conduct extensive research, and be mindful of potential pitfalls or hidden risks.

Geng Metal (庚金): Geng Metal symbolises significant obstacles and represents resilience, strength, and the determination to overcome these challenges. For example, when confronted with a visible problem or conflict, Geng Metal motivates individuals to directly address the issue, exhibit resilience, and discover creative solutions to surmount obstacles.

Xin Metal (辛金): Signifying the importance of introspection, investigation and gaining an understanding of underlying issues, Xin Metal represents hidden problems or truths. For example, when faced with hidden challenges, the presence of Xin Metal advises individuals to engage in self-reflection, conduct thorough investigations, and seek deeper insights to uncover root causes and discover effective solutions.

Ren Water (壬水): This stem signifies constant problems in life. It represents persistence, adaptability, and the necessity to address persistent issues for positive change. For example, when confronted with persistent challenges in relationships or work, Ren Water motivates individuals to persevere, adapt to changing circumstances, and actively work towards resolving ongoing issues.

Gui Water (癸水): A representation of lingering issues particularly related to emotions and intuition, the Gui Water stem symbolises the significance of self-reflection, emotional healing, and fostering a deeper understanding of oneself. In personal development and growth, Gui Water emphasises the importance of engaging in self-reflection, undergoing emotional healing, and nurturing intuition to overcome internal obstacles and attain personal transformation.

Practical Applications of Stems in Qi Men Dun Jia

In this section, we will explore the practical applications of Stems in Qi Men Dun Jia, in relation to various aspects of life.

The application of the metaphorical aspects of Stems to varying situations allows individuals to garner valuable insights. Through this, they are able to make more informed decisions regarding their personal and professional pursuits. Qi Men Dun Jia offers a unique perspective that melds metaphoric representations with practical guidance, allowing individuals to accurately navigate challenges and maximise their inherent potential to achieve new heights of success and personal growth.

In Career and Business

• Jia Wood
• Bing Fire
• Wu Earth
• Geng Metal
• Xin Metal

In starting a new career or business, Jia Wood signifies the requirement for effective leadership and growth-oriented strategies, while Bing Fire encourages assertive action. Wu Earth emphasises financial management and stability, and Geng Metal warns of significant obstacles that demand resilience. Xin Metal underscores the need to uncover hidden issues and address them strategically for business success.

Pursuing Relationships and Personal Growth

• Yi Wood
• Ren Water
• Gui Water

In pursuing relationships and personal growth, Yi Wood promotes diplomacy and compromise for understanding and harmony. Ren Water underscores persistence and adaptability to tackle ongoing challenges and foster growth. Gui Water emphasises self-reflection and emotional healing, leading to personal transformation and healthier relationships.

Health and Well-being

• Xin Metal
• Geng Metal

When dealing with health and well-being, Xin Metal suggests the importance of thorough investigation and understanding of the underlying causes of any illness. Whereas Geng Metal emphasises the importance of resilience and determination in overcoming pertinent health issues and striving for recovery.

Dealing with Financial Matters

• Wu Earth
• Jia Wood
• Gui Water

In dealing with financial matters, Wu Earth signifies the need for practical resource management and creating stability, whereas Jia Wood encourages growth-oriented financial strategies and investments. Gui Water emphasises the importance of self-reflection and introspection regarding one’s relationship with money and financial habits.

Understanding Qi Men Dun Jia at Imperial Harvest

Distilling and condensing the art of Qi Men Dun Jia into a convenient and beginner-friendly calendar chart, Master David has created an informative tool that assists you in leveraging favourable circumstances and amplifying your luck to attain greater heights of success and prosperity.

Download Imperial Harvest’s Qi Men Dun Jia calendar here