Ganzhi is a combination of two cycles

In daily use, the twelve branches (the zodiac animals) are commonly referred to as 'ganzhi'. However, the full sixty-ganzhi system combines ten heavenly stems (such as Jia, Yi, etc.) and twelve earthly branches (such as Zi, Chou, etc.). The ten stems represent 10 and the twelve branches represent 12, and their sequential combinations complete a cycle every 60 years. For example, even within the same year, such as the year of Wu, different combinations like Bing Wu and Wu Wu are distinct. To understand the year designation, listing both the twelve branches and the two-character ganzhi side by side clearly shows the difference.

Verify the Gregorian year first

For year comparisons, use the Gregorian calendar. For example, 2024 is Jia Chen, 2025 is Yi Si, 2026 is Bing Wu, and 2027 is Ding Wei. If you remember years from Heisei or Reiwa, convert them to the Gregorian calendar first before entering them. When comparing family members' birth years, verify each birth year individually to avoid confusion between years that differ by one cycle and those that differ by sixty years.

The ganzhi of New Year's greeting and the birth year in the Four Pillars of Destiny

The year-to-year correspondence shown here refers to the general, yearly designation. In contrast, when reading the Bazi (Four Pillars), you must first confirm the calendar system's year boundary before determining the Heavenly Stem Year. Especially for those born at the very beginning of the year, verify your birth date, place of birth, and as much time information as possible to accurately determine your birth chart. Since the ganzhi of the year is one of the four pillars, the full chart must be read by combining all four pillars.

Even with the same ganzhi, each person's life background is unique

While ganzhi can serve as a clue for one's year of birth, it does not determine personality or compatibility. Even among those born in the same year, differences in upbringing and life paths exist. When encountering unfamiliar terms in ganzhi explanations, pause and reflect: 'What experiences might I have had?' By connecting the fortune-telling language to your own personal experiences, you'll gain a deeper understanding.

A THOUGHT TO KEEP

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