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Metal

Five Elements
庚辛、金行

Definition

Metal is one of the Five Elements, representing the forces of contraction, austerity, and transformation. Metal is characterized by hardness, sharpness, and keenness, governing decisiveness and justice. It corresponds to autumn in the seasons, the west in direction, and white in color. Metal overcomes Wood, is overcome by Fire, generates Water, and is generated by Earth. In a birth chart, strong Metal indicates a decisive and resolute personality, whereas weak Metal suggests indecisiveness.

How to Find

Examine the presence of Geng Metal, Xin Metal, Shen Metal, and You Metal across the Four Pillars of the八字 (BaZi), and assess Metal’s strength or weakness in conjunction with the Month Pillar. Metal is strongest during autumn (Shen and You months), weakest during summer (when Metal is 'dead' or 'extinct'), in a state of rest or confinement during winter, and restrained during spring.

Attributes

elementMetal
directionWest
seasonAutumn
colorWhite
tastePungent taste
organLungs and Large Intestine

Combinations

Metal Generates WaterMetal is the mother of Water; its contracting energy gives rise to Water, signifying fluid intelligence and strategic thinking—favorable for academic pursuits and planning.
Metal Overcomes WoodMetal is the conqueror of Wood; its austere energy overcomes Wood, symbolizing decisive action and transformation—beneficial for pioneering ventures and career advancement.
Fire Overcomes MetalFire is the conqueror of Metal; its upward-flaming energy overcomes Metal, indicating pressure and constraint—caution is advised against excessive rigidity leading to breakage.

Examples

A Geng-Shen Day Master born in the You month exhibits strong Metal energy and robust self-element, resulting in a decisive and resolute character—suitable for careers in law or finance.

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