The Application of Five Elements Theory in Fate Calculation

The Five Elements theory is a core concept in classical Chinese philosophy and also the theoretical basis of fate theory. The so-called "If wood is flourishing but has no metal to cut it, even if it flourishes, it will be lonely and poor in later years. If fire is blazing but has no water to mold it, although it may flourish, it will die young"[citation:1] eloquently explains the importance of the balance of the five elements.

In fate analysis, the five elements configuration directly affects personal luck. According to the view of "Zaowei Lun": "When wood is abundant and meets metal, it is selected as a tool for pillars. When water is plentiful and encounters earth, it achieves the function of building embankments. When fire refines autumn metal, it casts a sword blade tool."[citation:1] This shows that the mutual restriction of the five elements is not entirely unfavorable; proper restraint can instead achieve great things.

Fortune-tellers analyze the prosperity and decline of the five elements in a person's eight characters to judge their fate trend. "If metal is weak and fire is blazing, too much will harm oneself. If wood is soft and metal is heavy, benefit will injure the body. Clear water should not have too much earth; weak earth cannot withstand abundant wood."[citation:1] These rules provide a theoretical basis for fate prediction.

In practical application, fortune-tellers will suggest adjusting the balance of the five elements through various methods such as direction, color, occupation, etc., to achieve the purpose of improving luck. This adjustment concept reflects the philosophical thought of "unity of heaven and man" in traditional Chinese culture.