10 Heavenly Stems

甲 Jia Wood
The nature of forest trees

From the way trees extend themselves to reach sunlight for growth, Jia people will spend efforts to plan and develop in order to move upward from their current situation. Moreover their roots are always rooted firmly in the ground, they are not easily wavered by strong winds.

The characteristics of Jia people are that they have strong willpower, are outspoken, will not give up easily even encountered some setbacks. They are righteous and not the type who will beat around the bush. They like to upkeep morals and reputation. Their character is also steady and down to earth. Hence they are not frivolous and they are not slipshod in their work. No matter what they do, they have a strong sense of responsibility and are of honorable people, and seldom get wavered by temptations.

Jia people are able to sympathize with others, will not turn away knowing others in need of help, however this may lead to much interference to others.
Shortcomings are that they are stubborn, not able to compromise, not as quick-witted and sometimes not able to adapt to changing circumstances. Like a strong tree with roots firmly grounded, any changes are unlikely to happen overnight.

As in the growth of a small tree, we can anticipate that it will grow into a tall and strong tree. Hence it is easy to foresee the development of the growth and character of a Jia person. It is unlikely that Jia people would develop otherwise, unless they meet with a very great setback or they grow up in a abnormal background.

乙 Yi Wood
The nature of of flowers and small plants

Like a small plant growing up softly and curly, and emitting as a beautiful and gorgeous flower. Yi people are meek and mild, rich in expression ability, can distinguish reality and like to seek improvement and development in one’s own environment.

As in a small plant or flower, it would react and respond very sensitively to any small changes of conditions or the environment. From this instance, we can see that Yi people are very quick-witted and have very fast adaptability in any change of circumstances.

Other characteristics of Yi people are that they can coordinate very well and will not insist on their own opinions. Although they can be very modest, they tend to be possessive at heart and are very careful and meticulous. Like a little flower, they may appear weak but can still grow well in a harsh environment. When typhoon happens, the small plants will swing and waver with it. They will not wither easily even though trodden, as long as their roots are still intact. From this instance, we can see that Yi people are very flexible but can also be realistic too.

In terms of financial aspect, Yi people can spend efforts to save well, they would not waste easily and can be quite stubborn about this.
Shortcomings are that they have a timid personality and very dependent on others. Though they may be creative, things or events may not happen as they wished. Hence these problems may cause them to be distressed and lose self-confidence. Besides, they are likely to go against their own feelings and thoughts to follows others, swayed by temptations and may be deceived or mislead by others easily.

丙 Bing Fire
Basically solar nature

People of Bing fire’s personality is open, frank, generous like starsign Leo, full of warmth, passion, enthusiasm, well-liked by others , have leadership qualities, and will not stop until they attain their goals. They are not interested or will get involved in human trifles or small matters. They have very clear opinions and will not take unnecessary pains to resolve problems or get themselves in a deadlock situation. They are straightforward and will not hide any truth.

Synthesis says that people of Bing fire are amiable, bighearted and lenient, able to get into good impressions of others and of a striking personality. They are also very energetic, shows enthusiasm and interest in all things, and will be actively hands-on in action. Sometimes due to much over-excitement which in turn becomes rash and reckless, can create a stir in situations and cause oneself to be busy and create wasted efforts.

From the example of the Sun looking across the earth and all things, it may create benefits, however it may also create unhealthy or harmful reactions.
Bing People are very fast in terms of actions, speech and understanding ability. Sometimes, being impatient, can lead to misunderstandings. They will also tend to differentiate things very clearly in matters.

Shortcomings of Bing people are impatient, self-opinionated , have a tendency on wastage; Tend to have mood swings and temper comes every now and then. Sometimes, they can be conceited, and sometimes they have a merciful heart. So, friends tend to come and go, one after another.

丁 Ding Fire
Nature of torch or candle, burning flame, quiet fire different from the sun

Ding people characteristics is mild, conservative, courteous and passionate. The personality of this kind of people is not strong.
Fire which is neither hot nor fiery, they often do not let others know of their directions or movements, and this would not stir up people’s attention.
The good points of Ding people are quiet, warm, unhurried. Their endurance and tolerance levels are very high, which is totally opposite of Bing people. So, in order to get along with Ding people, one must be patient and sensitive, and cannot be too frank.

However just like the situation where a fire requiring various conditions to reach the burning-point, this does not imply that Ding people are negative or lack self-confidence. They will hide their thinking or feelings in their heart, waiting diligently and attentively for the right opportunity to come knocking. Most of the time, others will not know what Ding people are thinking.
Synthesis says , Ding people’s contemplation is profound , behavior is careful and cautious, there are very few cases where actions are carried out due to impulse. Their thinking is like a careful vanguard, plan every matter to completion. This is like the nature of a small fire, from ignition and burn anything till ashes.

Like a fire burning slowly, sacrificing oneself to bring warmth to those near them. Hence Ding people will tend to be very close to those whom they know very well. They dedicate their hearts, even to the extent of sacrificing themselves. As they are always thoughtful of the feelings of those people who are dear to them, they will not tend to tell the truth, they also find hard to reject them even though they are aware that they themselves may lose out in certain circumstances.

Shortcomings are that before reaching the ‘burning-point’, they would not display their innate qualities or feelings. This may cause others to mistakenly think that they are indecisive and sitting on the fence. As Ding people like to consider every matter in details over and over again, they can develop a suspicious frame of mind very easily and hence they must not over-estimate themselves.

戊 Wu Earth
Nature that has the earth and rock.

People of this element are like the great earth or stone rock, trustworthy and optimistic, open-minded and steady, carefree, strict and honest and simply dressed. Though innate quality is like stone, their stability deserves one’s appreciation. Wu people will always make sure that the foundation is strengthened before spending time slowly and putting in effort, feelings or commitment. This is like the earth or rock which will not occurred change suddenly, but will endure changes over the years slowly. With such nature, they may miss opportunities sometimes. However, they will not regret, as long as they are happy with what they have currently. Once decided on one thing, nothing can change their mind. In other words, Wu person can be stubborn at times. However because of this nature, this characteristic enables them to implement faith unto others.

Wu person is amiable, appreciates and treasures relationships, and because of this, others will tend to seek consultation from them. However, Wu person will not reject those who come to him, and will not go after those who reject him, he will not promote himself to others.

Shortcomings are being wilful, self-centered and stubbornness which can lead to non-coherence and not be able to mingle or socialize well. Moreover as Wu person is inflexible and do not change their opinions easily, this tends to lead to a monotonous lifestyle. They will often be considered as people with non-interesting speeches.

Their self-respect is very strong, paying very much attention to reputation, however, they do not indulge in the flattery from others.

己 Ji Earth
Nature field earth.

Field earth or rich earth is sufficient to absorb adequate moisture, and is a depository for various kinds of nutrients, it is the place for cultivating various plants.

Ji people’s understanding, learning and grasping of knowledge is rapid, in other words, they are very versatile.

Synthesis says that the majority of this kind of people are very steady and kind. However, their heart is very complex, and they may not be as good as they appear to be. Ji people are considerable hardworking, will often notice to substantiate and improve themselves, hence the appraisement that they get can be very high.

Besides, rich field earth has soft, flexible comfortable nature. Therefore they know very well on when to retreat or advance at different circumstances or situations, has very high adaptability and hence will be entrusted frequently to handle difficult problems.

Shortcomings of Ji people are that their concentration level are not that high, are rash at times, tend to compromise easily on decisions made and will also be taken for granted by other people at times.

庚 Geng Jin
The personality like sword during war

Like a sword being sharpen for war, Geng people are strong when compared to others of the same nature. They are sharp, determined, straightforward, strong-willed, does not admit failure easily. They show much enthusiasm and determination in whatever they do, may be too excited and rash at times. This is because they would not like to waste time thinking and contemplating, and once decided they will action without any hesitation.

Synthesis says , Geng people exercise great comprehension, and will spare no effort in order to upgrade oneself. They can be proficient in a skill most of the time; apply and reap benefits from what they have studied or learnt.

Geng people are also very into cleanliness. They have a strong sense of justice, is disagreeable towards unfairness or hypocritical behavior. They also have a chivalrous heart, when they see others suffering from injustice, they will stand up to speak for those suffered with their eloquence, so as to get into favor of others.

Shortcomings are stubborn; After having decided on something, will not change decision under whatever circumstances. Geng people are also careless, not paying much attention to fine details or feelings. They can also show no mercy for people whom they don’t like, and hence will make enemies very easily.

辛 Xin Jin
The nature that has golden silver pearl jade

As in golden silver pearl jade can be split to emit unique radiance, and is sensitive to heat and electricity. Xin people have very fine feelings, and have unique opinions; For the matter of each aspect, they are very approachable and helpful to others. Sometimes they will also tire oneself through helping out with a sympathetic heart.

Xin people are very sharp and quick in thinking, have fine morals and are very attractive, attracting attention wherever they go. They are very sociable and can get into or maintain good friendships., however, they will be able to differentiate good and bad distinctly.

Self respect for Xin people are very strong. They love new things, indulge in vanity, and hence can spend unwisely most of the time.

Shortcomings are willful, stubborn in terms of own’s opinions and they mind very much about their exterior looks to make sure they look presentable at all times. Xin people likes to ensure the best of circumstances and situations. They find hard to reject when others require assistance and this also shows as a weakness in their mindset.

壬 Ren Water
The nature of rivers and sea

Just like waters of rivers and sea flow continually everywhere, and drawn into various kinds of things, Ren person is worry free and optimistic, they don’t mind the past and are filled with courage to move on.

They show enthusiasm in whatever they do, they like to help others and don’t mind hardships. They enjoy social activities with full of spirits, and become noticeable to others.

They are highly adaptable to any change on circumstances. They are also quick to grasp and will not miss any good opportunity that comes along. Once the drive kicks in, they will overcome all difficulties to meet their objective or reach their goal.

Synthesis says that Ren people are clever, intelligent and full of inspirations. They can be endowed in both civil and martial virtues, has leadership qualities, and able to outshine and surpass themselves from others.

Shortcomings are that though they have a rounded personality, they are willful. They can be lazy and this caused them to be dependent on others easily. Ren people are very fond of freedom, dislike to be restrained or controlled and due to this, they are not able to hold on to the last minute at times. They are also easily affected get entangled in love relationships.

癸 Gui Water
The nature of rain and dew

Rain and dew are weak and fine , and can be soaked or immersed fully in object. Therefore, Gui people are steady and peaceful , diligent, hardworking and have high levels of endurance. They have an introvert personality, are very into cleanliness, honest and down to earth. They can be very weak when managing their feelings. They are nervous, like to have fantasies and romantic thoughts or feelings.

In order to attain the real meaning of life, they allow their hearts and feelings to lead them to pursue their dreams and goals. They may pay attention to rules and morals, but due to wishful thinking and fantasies, they may not be able to know and understand reality. Hence they can be very mindful and engage in meaningless matters, sometimes having put in too many thoughts over a small matter and lead themselves to have doubtful and distrustful thinking.

Synthesis says that Gui people are very pure and innocent, weak in coordination and can be affected over very small or meaningless matters. They are sympathetic towards others, can be cool and clear-headed at times. They are very sensitive to feelings and will tend to hide their feelings from being known to others. Therefore they can appear mild on the outside. They pay very much attention to the way of life, to live their dreams and enjoy their lives to the fullest.

Shortcomings are that they can rigidly adhere to old methods or formalities, can be easily pessimistic and often have negative thoughts. However, though they created the starting point of these negative thoughts by complying with self principles, at the same time, they have the endurance and ability of having to live with the pain.