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Xu (Dog)

Earthly Branches
戌、狗

Definition

Xu is the eleventh of the Twelve Earthly Branches, belonging to Yang Earth, associated with the Dog zodiac sign, and corresponds to the Xu Hour (19:00–21:00). Xu Earth represents the dry Earth of Late Autumn; it internally conceals Wu Earth, Xin Metal, and Ding Fire. Its nature is dry and loyal, symbolizing loyalty, protection, and the power of justice. Xu Earth serves as the 'Fire Repository', embodying the imagery of storing light and brilliance.

How to Find

Xu Earth is identified from the Earthly Branches in the Four Pillars of Destiny chart. If Xu appears in the Year Branch, the native belongs to the Dog zodiac; if Xu appears in the Day Branch, the Spouse Palace is Xu Earth. Xu Earth is strongest during the Xu Month (ninth lunar month).

Attributes

elementEarth
yinYangYang
zodiacDog
seasonAutumn
time19:00–21:00

Chart Meanings

Year Pillar：Xu Earth in the Year Branch suggests ancestors may have worked in military, police, or religious fields; the native tends to be loyal and upright during youth.
Month Pillar：Xu Earth in the Month Branch indicates a strong sense of justice in career matters, making professions such as law or security especially suitable.
Day Pillar：Xu Earth in the Day Branch signifies a loyal and dependable spouse, though possibly overly stubborn.
Hour Pillar：Xu Earth in the Hour Branch implies loyal and upright children, and the native gains trust and respect in later life.

Combinations

Mao-Xu Harmony (Fire)

Mao and Xu form a harmonious union transforming into Fire, indicating successful marriage and influential benefactors in career.

Chen-Xu Clash

Chen and Xu clash—Earth clashing with Earth—suggesting changes concerning real estate or health.

Yin-Wu-Xu Triple Harmony (Fire Formation)

Yin, Wu, and Xu form a Triple Harmony of Fire, generating vigorous Fire energy, indicating outstanding career achievements.

Examples

A person born on a Ren-Xu Day has Xu Earth as the Seven Killings in the Day Branch, suggesting a spouse with a strong, righteous personality.

Related Terms

View all Earthly Branches terms
Mao (Rabbit)Chen (Dragon)Yin (Tiger)Wu (Horse)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Earthly Branches?

The Twelve Earthly Branches are: Zi, Chou, Yin, Mao, Chen, Si, Wu, Wei, Shen, You, Xu, Hai.

What zodiac animals correspond to the Branches?

Zi=Rat, Chou=Ox, Yin=Tiger, Mao=Rabbit, Chen=Dragon, Si=Snake, Wu=Horse, Wei=Goat, Shen=Monkey, You=Rooster, Xu=Dog, Hai=Pig.

How are Branches assigned to Elements?

Yin-Mao Wood, Si-Wu Fire, Chen-Xu-Chou-Wei Earth, Shen-You Metal, Hai-Zi Water.