Category: Happiness Spirits & Misfortune Spirits

  • The Commanding Influence

    Also known as “Authority” or “Leadership,” the Commanding Influence refers to a person’s ability to exercise power and control, as well as their leadership qualities and assertiveness. This trait is often associated with professional success, influence over others, and a strong personality. In conjunction with the Five Elements (Wu Xing) and the 12 Life Phases (also referred to as “Life Cycle Phases” or “Star Phases”), these qualities can manifest with varying intensity depending on the phase.

    Effects of the Commanding Influence in Different Phases

    1. Growth and Prosperity (長生, Chang Sheng)
      This phase represents birth and growth. The Commanding Influence begins to strengthen here, and the person displays early signs of leadership potential, ambition, and energy. It is a time of building and developing leadership qualities, as the person’s potential is still unfolding.
    2. Bathing (沐浴, Mu Yu)
      This phase symbolizes purification and the transitional period following birth. The Commanding Influence may fluctuate, as the person is not yet fully established. It can be a time of uncertainty, where leadership qualities are tested and not yet clearly defined.
    3. Cap and Belt (冠帶, Guan Dai)
      This phase represents coming of age and taking on responsibility. The Commanding Influence reaches a higher level of maturity. The person is ready to assume responsibility and actively embrace their leadership role. Leadership skills become solidified, and the individual positions themselves more effectively in social structures.
    4. Displaying Prosperity (臨官, Lin Guan)
      This phase, often interpreted as “Taking Office,” is one of the strongest stages for the Commanding Influence. The person reaches a position of high authority and demonstrates decisive leadership qualities. It is the peak of leadership and influence, where power and control are fully manifested.
    5. Imperial Glow (帝旺, Di Wang)
      This phase symbolizes the zenith of power. The Commanding Influence is at its absolute peak. The person enjoys maximum authority and influence. It is a time where leadership skills are pushed to their limits, and the person is capable of making significant decisions and dominating their environment.
    6. Decline (衰, Shuai)
      After the peak of power, the Commanding Influence begins to gradually decrease. This is a phase of weakening, where the person may no longer exercise their authority and control as strongly. Leadership qualities are still present, but their assertiveness is diminishing.
    7. Sickness (病, Bing)
      The Commanding Influence is significantly weakened in this phase. The person may feel less capable of asserting their leadership role. This can be a time of reflection and inner conflict, where their authority is questioned or their influence substantially wanes.
    8. Death (死, Si)
      In the phase of “Death,” the Commanding Influence is reduced to a minimum. It is a time when the leadership role has nearly disappeared. The person may feel powerless or withdraw from their positions.
    9. Grave (墓, Mu)
      This phase signifies retreat and entombment. The Commanding Influence is essentially “buried” here. The person fully steps back from their leadership responsibilities, either by choice or due to external circumstances.
    10. Dissolution (絕, Jue)
      In the phase of “Dissolution,” the Commanding Influence disappears completely. It is a time of complete withdrawal, where leadership qualities and authority no longer play a role. The person has permanently lost their control and influence.
    11. Embryo (胎, Tai)
      In this phase, the Commanding Influence returns to a dormant state. It is a phase of preparation and redevelopment. Leadership qualities begin to rebuild in the background but remain in a latent state.
    12. Nurturing (養, Yang)
      This is a phase of recovery and slow growth. The Commanding Influence begins to regenerate. The person gathers new energy and may be considering a return to a leadership role, but this remains in an early, nurturing stage.

    Conclusion

    The Commanding Influence displays varying strengths and weaknesses depending on the life cycle phase. From the peak of leadership (Imperial Glow) to phases of withdrawal and loss of control (Death, Grave), an individual naturally cycles through different stages of power and influence.

  • The Flourishing Canopy

    (华盖, Huà Gài)

    is one of the “Stars” (Shen Sha, 神煞) that influences a person’s personality, fate, and life circumstances. This star symbolizes a unique energy primarily expressed through introspection, spirituality, isolation, and individual creativity. People with this star in their BaZi chart often tend to be deep thinkers, artistically gifted, and intellectually inclined. However, they may also appear introverted, distant, or even lonely.

    Characteristics of the Flourishing Canopy

    • Spiritual Inclination: Individuals with this star often seek a higher meaning in life. They are drawn to religion, esotericism, or philosophy.
    • Creativity and Art: These people often have a special talent for the arts, music, or literature. Their creativity arises from a deep inner world.
    • Isolation: Those under the influence of the Flourishing Canopy may withdraw from the world, seeking solitude, which can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation.
    • Wisdom and Philosophy: The Flourishing Canopy also represents wisdom and thoughtfulness. People with this star often strive for a deeper understanding of life.
    • Loneliness: Although admired and respected by others, they often feel alone or misunderstood.
    • Mysticism and Intuition: Those with this star often have strong intuitive abilities, sensing things that remain hidden to others.

    The Impact of Life Phases on the Flourishing Canopy

    In BaZi, there are different phases that influence the development of a particular star. Each phase represents a stage of life or energy that alters the characteristics and behavior of the individual.

    1. Growth and Prosperity (长生, Zhǎng Shēng):
      In this phase, the Flourishing Canopy begins to develop, leading to an increasing desire for spiritual and creative expression. The person feels energized and vibrant, which enhances their creative and intellectual sides.
    2. Bathing (沐浴, Mù Yù):
      This phase represents cleansing and transformation. The person may face emotional upheavals, forcing them to release old beliefs. This strengthens their spiritual side, but also increases their tendency toward isolation.
    3. Cap and Belt (冠带, Guān Dài):
      In this phase, the person attains a sense of maturity and solidity. The creative energy of the Flourishing Canopy becomes more grounded, and there is a greater willingness to share these talents with the world. Spiritual and artistic maturity manifests more clearly in everyday life.
    4. Displaying Prosperity (临官, Lín Guān):
      This is a phase of success and recognition. The individual’s creative work may gain recognition, and they might reach a peak in their career or spiritual practice. Isolation diminishes as the person shares their wisdom and creativity with others.
    5. Imperial Glow (帝旺, Dì Wàng):
      This phase represents the pinnacle of energy, a time of great success and influence. The individual may now be seen as a spiritual or artistic authority. The isolation is overcome, and fulfillment is found in expressing their inner world.
    6. Decline (衰, Shuāi):
      Here, energy begins to wane. The person feels tired and retreats back into their inner world. This can lead to periods of withdrawal or loneliness, as they seek to realign and refocus.
    7. Sickness (病, Bìng):
      In this phase, challenges arise, both physically and emotionally. The individual’s creative and spiritual abilities may suffer, and isolation intensifies. There is a heightened need for self-reflection and inner healing.
    8. Death (死, Sǐ):
      This phase marks the end of a life cycle or a particular development. The person may feel their spiritual or creative energy is depleted. It is a time for withdrawal and internal transformation.
    9. Grave (墓, Mù):
      In this phase, the individual retreats further into their inner world. It is a phase of reflection and conclusion, where old patterns and ideas are buried to make room for something new.
    10. Dissolution (绝, Jué):
      This phase is one of detachment. The person lets go of old beliefs, habits, and possibly even social relationships. It enhances isolation and the need for solitude.
    11. Embryo (胎, Tāi):
      This is a phase of slow rebirth. The person senses a subtle inner shift, and their creative or spiritual forces begin to reform. It is a time of preparation and redesign.
    12. Nurturing (养, Yǎng):
      In this phase, new energy is nurtured and developed. The person begins to move back towards creativity and spiritual growth, but in a cautious and gradual manner.

    Summary

    The energy of the Flourishing Canopy is deeply tied to introspection, creativity, and spirituality. Depending on the phase, this energy can be vibrant and outwardly expressed (as in “Growth and Prosperity” or “Imperial Glow”) or retreat into isolation and reflection (as in “Sickness,” “Death,” or “Grave”). Each phase brings a different expression of the Flourishing Canopy’s energy, influencing a person’s life through varying degrees of creativity, wisdom, solitude, and spiritual insight.

  • The Courier Horse

    (驿马, Yìmǎ) plays a significant role in BaZi, symbolizing mobility, movement, travel, and life changes. It represents dynamic energy, the ability to adapt quickly to new situations, and often signals changes in residence, career, or personal environment. Individuals influenced by the Courier Horse tend to be active, seek new challenges, and may frequently relocate or travel.

    Characteristics of the Courier Horse

    • Movement and Change: The Courier Horse is strongly connected with mobility and change. People with this energy in their BaZi chart often enjoy traveling and seek out new opportunities or experiences.
    • Restless Nature: It brings a sense of restlessness, which can manifest as a thirst for adventure or an inner need for change.
    • Frequent Career or Residential Changes: It can indicate frequent professional or geographical changes.
    • Independence: Those with Courier Horse energy often have a strong desire for independence and freedom. They prefer to follow their own path and avoid too many commitments.
    • Quick to Act: They tend to make swift decisions and act quickly, though this can sometimes happen without fully considering the consequences.

    Impact of the 12 Phases (Life Cycle Theory) on the Courier Horse

    1. Growth and Prosperity (长生, Zhǎngshēng):
      In this phase, the Courier Horse is at its peak, flourishing with strong energy for new beginnings, growth, and development. It is an ideal time to embark on new journeys, make plans for change, and pursue dynamic life movements.
    2. Bathing (沐浴, Mùyù):
      Here, the energy of the Courier Horse is refreshed and cleansed. This phase represents emotional or mental clarity, letting go of the old to prepare for upcoming challenges, and gaining new perspectives for future changes.
    3. Cap and Belt (冠带, Guàndài):
      A phase of stability and maturity. For the Courier Horse, this means that the once restless energy transitions into a more controlled and mature form. It’s a time for building on past experiences and perhaps stabilizing in career or personal life.
    4. Displaying Prosperity (临官, Línguān):
      This phase is marked by success. The adaptability and flexibility of the Courier Horse lead to visible achievements and recognition. The individual attains a position of responsibility and authority, often as a result of previous travels or changes.
    5. Imperial Glow (帝旺, Dìwàng):
      At this stage, the Courier Horse reaches the height of its power and influence. It is a period where all the changes and journeys come to fruition, and the person stands at the pinnacle of their success. This phase is highly beneficial and yields maximum gains.
    6. Decline (衰, Shuāi):
      Here, the energy of the Courier Horse begins to wane. It marks a phase of slowing down, where once dynamic movements become more gradual. Those influenced by the Courier Horse might find their energy decreasing and may require more rest.
    7. Sickness (病, Bìng):
      This phase is characterized by weakness and potential loss. For the Courier Horse, it represents a time when the ability to move and adapt is significantly impaired. It could indicate challenges stemming from constant changes, such as exhaustion or health issues.
    8. Death (死, Sǐ):
      This phase signifies the end of a cycle, marking the cessation of movement and activity. For the Courier Horse, this is a passive period where changes stagnate, and the person may need to withdraw and focus on inner regeneration.
    9. Grave (墓, Mù):
      In this phase, the Courier Horse is “buried.” It symbolizes a time of inner reflection and retreat, where external activities come to a halt. The drive for mobility and change is no longer present, and it becomes a phase of rest and pause.
    10. Dissolution (绝, Jué):
      A complete detachment from the dynamic energy of the Courier Horse occurs in this phase. It signals the end of a life stage or phase of mobility. This could mark the beginning of a very quiet or stable period with no further changes.
    11. Embryo (胎, Tāi):
      In this phase, the Courier Horse is preparing for a new cycle. It is a time of gathering strength to become active again in the future. The energy of movement is not yet visible but is developing internally for future growth.
    12. Nurturing (养, Yǎng):
      This phase represents the slow recovery of energy. The Courier Horse is not yet fully active, but it is regaining strength, preparing for a new phase of movement and growth. It is a time of regeneration and slow progress toward renewed dynamism.

    Summary

    The energy of the Courier Horse is marked by strong mobility, change, and dynamic transformation. Depending on the phase, this mobility can either be powerful and positive (such as in the “Growth and Prosperity” and “Imperial Glow” phases) or significantly diminish, leading to stillness and inner withdrawal (such as in the “Sickness,” “Death,” and “Grave” phases). Each phase brings a different quality of the Courier Horse’s energy, influencing a person’s life in various ways.

  • The Demon of Looting

    (劫财, Jié Cái) is a specific sign within the BaZi chart that influences both destiny and personality. It is one of the “Ten Gods” and refers to an element that controls the individual’s Daymaster element. The Demon of Looting is closely associated with competition, rivalry, and the risk of sharing or losing material resources or power.

    Characteristics of the Demon of Looting

    • Competition and Rivalry: The Demon of Looting represents people or situations that bring competition, especially regarding finances or resources. It is often seen as a sign that the person will face challenges from friends or close acquaintances.
    • Sharing Resources: While it carries the risk of loss, the Demon of Looting can also indicate generosity and a willingness to share resources with others.
    • Strong Willpower: Individuals with a strong presence of this demon are known for going their own way, often leading to conflicts with authority or established structures.
    • Impulsiveness: The Demon of Looting can signal an impulsive nature, particularly in financial matters, leading to risk-taking or rash decisions.
    • Struggle for Power and Status: There may be a constant battle to assert one’s position in the world, as this demon often attracts situations involving the gain or loss of power.

    Influence of the 12 Phases (Life Stages of the Elements) on the Demon of Looting

    In BaZi, each of the five elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water) goes through twelve life stages, which also affect the way the Demon of Looting operates:

    1. Growth and Prosperity (长生, Cháng Shēng):
      In this phase, the Demon of Looting is particularly dynamic and alive. It is a time of growth, where competition and rivalry are actively faced, often with strong will and success. The drive to secure resources is at its peak.
    2. Bathing (沐浴, Mù Yù):
      This phase symbolizes cleansing and renewal. The Demon of Looting may become more emotional and vulnerable. Sensitivity to competition increases, which can lead to impulsive decisions.
    3. Cap and Belt (冠带, Guān Dài):
      A phase of maturity and stabilization. Here, the Demon of Looting becomes more balanced and strategic. Competition is approached with greater thoughtfulness, and it is a period where material resources can be successfully secured and managed.
    4. Displaying Prosperity (临官, Lín Guān):
      A phase of great success and influence. The Demon of Looting is in a position of power, and competition is easily overcome. It is a prosperous time, with financial and resource-related benefits.
    5. Imperial Glow (帝旺, Dì Wàng):
      The height of power. The Demon of Looting is particularly strong, leading to significant success. However, this phase also carries the risk of arrogance and excessive rivalry, potentially leading to conflicts.
    6. Decline (衰, Shuāi):
      In this phase, the energy of the Demon of Looting begins to diminish. Competition becomes more challenging, and there may be a sense of losing resources or position. Caution in decision-making is necessary.
    7. Sickness (病, Bìng):
      This phase represents weakness and limitation. The Demon of Looting is in a vulnerable position. Competition intensifies, but the ability to assert oneself is greatly reduced, which may lead to losses or setbacks.
    8. Death (死, Sǐ):
      During the death phase, the Demon of Looting is extremely weak. This is a period of powerlessness against external competition or losses. It may be a time of retreat or giving up.
    9. Grave (墓, Mù):
      In this phase, the Demon of Looting is “buried.” It is a time when competition and rivalry are no longer prominent. The individual may withdraw from external conflicts and focus more on internal processes.
    10. Dissolution (绝, Jué):
      This phase represents the end or dissolution. The Demon of Looting has little to no influence, signaling a time of accepting losses and moving away from competitive thoughts.
    11. Embryo (胎, Tāi):
      A new cycle of growth begins, but at a very early stage. The Demon of Looting is weak here, but there is potential for future development. Competition is not a major factor, but the groundwork for future struggles is being laid.
    12. Nurturing (养, Yǎng):
      A phase of recovery and nourishment. The Demon of Looting slowly gains strength, but in a calm and stable manner. It is a time of preparation for future challenges.

    Conclusion

    The twelve phases greatly influence the strength and nature of the Demon of Looting. From a dynamic, competition-driven energy in the early phases to a state of weakening and rest in the later stages, they reflect how an individual’s ability to deal with competition, resources, and power fluctuates over time.

  • The Demon of Destruction

    (煞, Shā) is one of the most powerful forces within a BaZi chart, symbolizing transformation, dissolution, and sometimes destructive events or obstacles. The Demon of Destruction is closely associated with changes that are often unpredictable and challenging. When it is prominent in a BaZi chart, it can signify profound transformations in a person’s life.

    However, the Demon of Destruction is not purely negative. It also represents a force for change and transition. In a positive context, it can indicate the dismantling of old structures to make room for something new. In BaZi analysis, the phases and their relationship to the five elements must be considered to understand the demon’s impact on one’s destiny.

    The 12 Phases of the Life Cycle and Their Influence on the Demon of Destruction:

    • Growth and Prosperity (长生, Chángshēng):
      In this phase, the Demon of Destruction represents the beginning of a transformation, like a seed starting to grow. This may indicate new, potentially challenging events that also hold the potential for growth and development.
    • Bathing (沐浴, Mùyù):
      This phase symbolizes cleansing. The Demon of Destruction is “washed” during this phase, meaning its destructive powers may be weakened. It is a time of purification and overcoming old problems or karmic burdens.
    • Cap and Belt (冠带, Guàndài):
      This phase represents the attainment of status or maturity. For the Demon of Destruction, this means its destructive powers may be restrained and used more purposefully. It is a phase where transformation is directed by structure and discipline.
    • Displaying Prosperity (临官, Línguān):
      This is a phase of flourishing and success. The Demon of Destruction in this phase may indicate that destructive energies can be strategically harnessed to one’s advantage by dismantling old structures and creating new opportunities.
    • Imperial Glow (帝旺, Dìwàng):
      The imperial phase is the pinnacle of power. Here, the Demon of Destruction could unleash its full potential. This phase may signal profound transformative events, where old structures are radically destroyed to make way for something new. It is a phase of significant upheaval.
    • Decline (衰, Shuāi):
      This phase indicates the beginning of a reduction in power. The Demon of Destruction loses intensity here, meaning the chaotic or challenging events diminish, and a degree of stability may emerge.
    • Sickness (病, Bìng):
      In the sickness phase, the Demon of Destruction’s power is greatly weakened. This suggests that there is less destruction and chaos in life, but it may also mean that difficulties arise due to the inability to use this power effectively for transformation.
    • Death (死, Sǐ):
      In this phase, the Demon of Destruction reaches its lowest point. This could mean that its destructive influences are entirely extinguished, but it might also indicate a period of stagnation or emptiness, where no progress or change is possible.
    • Grave (墓, Mù):
      This phase symbolizes burial and finality. The Demon of Destruction is at rest here, indicating that its destructive power is completely buried. It is a time of withdrawal and reflection, where the consequences of past transformations are processed.
    • Dissolution (绝, Jué):
      The phase of dissolution represents the complete end of previous forces. The Demon of Destruction is fully dissolved in this phase, symbolizing that the destructive transformation has concluded, and space has been cleared for a new beginning.
    • Embryo (胎, Tāi):
      In the embryo phase, a new cycle begins. For the Demon of Destruction, this means its powers are reborn but remain hidden. This phase indicates latent energy waiting to unfold again when the time is right.
    • Nurturing (养, Yǎng):
      In this phase, the Demon of Destruction is being nourished and strengthened, much like an embryo developing. It suggests that its destructive forces are gradually gaining power and may play a role again in the future.

    Summary:

    The Demon of Destruction goes through various stages of power in the 12 phases, from emergence to dissolution and eventual rebirth. Its destructive forces are not inherently negative but can be used in certain phases to clear away old structures and make space for new ones. In early phases like “Growth and Prosperity” and “Bathing,” its potential power is evident, while in phases like “Sickness,” “Death,” and “Grave,” its influence is significantly reduced or nearly absent.

  • The Peach Blossom Demon

    (桃花煞, Táohuā Shā), primarily associated with attraction, romance, and relationship dynamics. In this context, the Peach Blossom Demon represents an aspect of a person’s character or life path that is heavily influenced by sensuality, charm, and susceptibility to seduction.

    Characteristics of the Peach Blossom Demon:

    • Attractiveness and Charisma: People with the Peach Blossom Demon in their Bazi chart often possess a natural aura and magnetism. They are charismatic and tend to easily attract attention, whether in social, professional, or romantic settings.
    • Romantic Entanglements: This energy may lead the individual to be frequently involved in romantic relationships or affairs. Their love life can be vibrant but also chaotic and unstable.
    • Artistic Talent: The Peach Blossom Demon can also foster a strong creative and artistic inclination. Those with this energy are often talented in art, music, acting, or fashion.
    • Seduction and Deception: While the Peach Blossom Demon emphasizes positive aspects like beauty and romance, it can also have negative consequences, such as deception, manipulation, or fleeting love affairs that lead to emotional pain.
    • Risk of Excess: This energy can amplify tendencies toward excess in a person’s life, such as overindulgence in partying, alcohol, or reckless behavior in relationships.

    Effects of the Peach Blossom Demon in Various Phases of the Life Cycle (12 Phases of the 5 Elements)

    In the Chinese system of the 12 phases or stages of the life cycle, these phases refer to the cycles each element goes through over time, reflecting the course of birth, growth, peak, and decline. These phases also influence the energy of the Peach Blossom Demon and how its characteristics unfold in a person’s life.

    • Growth and Prosperity (长生, chángshēng):
      In this phase, the energy of the Peach Blossom Demon is particularly vibrant and powerful. The person exudes strong attraction and often experiences a rise in romantic or social relationships. Creativity and charisma are at their peak.
    • Bathing (沐浴, mùyù):
      This phase is closely tied to seduction and romance but also the risk of illusions. There is an increased chance of unclear or chaotic relationships, which may be exciting but often unstable. The person may be easily distracted by external stimuli and temptations.
    • Cap and Belt (冠带, guāndài):
      In this phase, the energy of the Peach Blossom Demon stabilizes somewhat. Relationships and romantic entanglements may become more serious and long-term, though the tendency for social ascent and attraction remains. There is a certain maturity in how the person handles their romantic relationships.
    • Displaying Prosperity (临官, línguān):
      The Peach Blossom Demon reaches a peak in terms of social recognition and charisma. The person may experience great success in artistic, creative, or social fields. Romantically and socially, they exude confidence, attracting further attention.
    • Imperial Glow (帝旺, dìwàng):
      This is the pinnacle of the energy. The person enjoys maximum attractiveness, charisma, and social success. However, there may also be an excess of ego and indulgence. Romantic relationships can become more intense but also more challenging.
    • Decline (衰, shuāi):
      In this phase, the energy of the Peach Blossom Demon begins to wane. Romantic or social entanglements may become less exciting or harder to manage. There may also be tensions or disappointments in relationships.
    • Sickness (病, bìng):
      The energy of the Peach Blossom Demon weakens. The person may experience difficulties in their love life or social interactions. This can also be a phase of self-reflection, where they deal with the consequences of past decisions related to romance and relationships.
    • Death (死, sǐ):
      The energy of the Peach Blossom Demon reaches its lowest point. Romantic relationships and social interactions may no longer be as lively or exciting as before. There is a strong tendency toward introspection or isolation.
    • Grave (墓, mù):
      In this phase, the energy of the Peach Blossom Demon is completely bound. The person may withdraw from social and romantic activities or focus on inner processes. It could also be a time to reflect on past mistakes or relationships.
    • Dissolution (绝, jué):
      This phase marks the end of a cycle. The energy of the Peach Blossom Demon has almost completely disappeared. It is a time of letting go of old patterns and possibly of connections that are no longer beneficial.
    • Embryo (胎, tāi):
      The energy of the Peach Blossom Demon slowly begins to revive. It is a phase of renewal, where new romantic or creative impulses may emerge, though they are not yet fully developed.
    • Nurturing (养, yǎng):
      In this phase, the energy prepares for new growth. The person may begin to form new romantic connections or social interactions, but these are still in development. It is a phase of nurturing and preparing for the next phase of growth.

    Summary:

    The effects of the Peach Blossom Demon go through highs and lows during the various phases of life. At its strongest, it brings romance, beauty, and creative expression, but during its weaker phases, it can promote withdrawal, isolation, and reflection. How this energy manifests depends heavily on other elements in the Bazi chart and the individual’s specific life circumstances.