Water
Definition
Water is one of the Five Elements, representing the qualities of moistening and descending, wisdom, and adaptability. Water is gentle and profound in nature, governing intelligence and agility; it corresponds to winter in the seasons, the north in direction, and the color black. Water overcomes Fire, is overcome by Earth, generates Wood, and is generated by Metal. In a birth chart, an abundance of Water indicates a person who is intelligent and perceptive, whereas a deficiency of Water suggests inflexibility and lack of adaptability.
How to Find
Examine the presence of Ren Water (Ren Water), Gui Water (Gui Water), Zi Water (Zi/Rat), and Hai Water (Hai/Boar) across the Four Pillars of the八字 (BaZi); assess Water’s strength or weakness in conjunction with the Month Branch. Water is strongest during winter (Hai and Zi months), weakest during the last 18 days of each season (when Water is 'dead' or 'extinguished'), in a state of rest and decline during spring, and imprisoned during summer.
Attributes
Combinations
Water Generates Wood
Water is the mother of Wood; its moistening and descending energy nourishes and generates Wood, signifying nurturing and cultivation—favorable for academic pursuits and personal growth.
Water Overcomes Fire
Water is the conqueror of Fire; its moistening and descending energy overcomes Fire, symbolizing restraint of desires and facilitating calm, rational judgment.
Earth Overcomes Water
Earth is the conqueror of Water; its heavy, stabilizing energy restrains Water, indicating restriction and control—caution is advised against excessive suppression.
Examples
A Ren Zi Day Master born in the Hai month possesses abundant Water and strong self-element, resulting in an intelligent, perceptive, and adaptable personality—suitable for careers in academia or commerce.
Related Terms
View all Five Elements termsFrequently Asked Questions
What are the Five Elements?
The Five Elements are Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, Earth—core concepts in Chinese philosophy.
What are the generation and control cycles?
Generation: Wood→Fire→Earth→Metal→Water→Wood. Control: Wood→Earth→Water→Fire→Metal→Wood.
What is the role of Five Elements in Bazi?
The Five Elements are the foundation of Bazi analysis, assessing chart balance and element strength.