Basic Concept: Origin of Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches

The Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches are an ancient Chinese calendrical system created based on natural phenomena. The Heavenly Stems consist of ten characters, and the Earthly Branches of twelve, used to record time cycles. This system is not only used in calendrical calculations but also plays a significant role in traditional Chinese metaphysics.

Combination of Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches in Metaphysics

In metaphysics, the combination of Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches forms what is called the "Four Pillars of Destiny" or "Eight Characters," referring to the eight-character combination of year, month, day, and time. Each combination has different attributes that influence a person's personality, destiny, and future trajectory. The book "Three Life Agreements" delves deeply into how these combinations affect destiny, emphasizing the balancing role of the Five Elements.

Four Pillars of Destiny
Year Heavenly Stem and Earthly Branch, Month Heavenly Stem and Earthly Branch, Day Heavenly Stem and Earthly Branch, Time Heavenly Stem and Earthly Branch

In-depth Interpretation of Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches in "Three Life Agreements"

"Three Life Agreements" explores various metaphysical theories based on the understanding of Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches, such as Direct Wealth, Indirect Wealth, Authority, and Hurting Officer. It states that mastering these theories can effectively predict one's destiny.

Combination of Direct Wealth and Heavenly Stems

The Direct Wealth of Heavenly Stems, such as Jia seeing Ji or Yi seeing Wu, is described as a symbol of personal wealth. The presence or absence of Direct Wealth in one's fate directly affects their material life and spiritual world.
- Quote from "Three Life Agreements": "Wealth is the source of life's sustenance, and one's Eight Characters must not lack wealth..."

Relationship between Earthly Branches and Metaphysics

Earthly Branches, as symbols of time, also offer ways to adjust personal destiny. Under their influence, the Four Pillars of Destiny reveal the opportunities and risks in one's fate.
- Earthly Branches experiencing clashes and breaks signify emotional turmoil for the individual.

The combination of Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches embodies the complexity of life's journey in metaphysics. Through the interpretations provided by "Three Life Agreements," we gain a profound understanding of the deep philosophy of the unity between nature, destiny, and time.

The Influence of Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches on Destiny: Insights from "San Ming Tong Hui"