Ding (丁)
Basic Explanation
- The fourth of the Ten Heavenly Stems (Shi Tian Gan), associated with Yin Fire, represents propriety in the Five Elements, corresponds to the southern direction, and aligns with midsummer in terms of season.
- Its natural attribute is akin to starlight or candlelight. In "Yuan Hai Zi Ping," it is metaphorically described as "its form is a single candle lamp," symbolizing the spark of civilization.
- Derived from the subtle essence of the Fire element, it has the function of promoting cultural enlightenment. Ancient texts describe it as "vigorous but not fierce, declining but not exhausted."
Personality
Positive Traits
✓ Cultured and courteous: Like candlelight illuminating darkness, it inherently carries a civilized and educational aura.
✓ Insightful and perceptive: Possesses intuition and wisdom that penetrate appearances.
✓ Cool exterior, warm interior: Appears calm and composed on the outside, but is emotionally rich within.
✓ Persistent focus: Like an ever-burning lamp, steadfast in beliefs and understanding of others.
Negative Traits
✗ Indecisive: Easily wavers in important decisions.
✗ Suspicious and doubtful: Lack of security leads to excessive vigilance.
✗ Passive endurance: Tends to self-deplete under strong pressure.
✗ Stubborn and solitary: Not adept at teamwork, prefers to act independently.
Categories and Meanings
| Category | Specific Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Nature | Starlight and moonlight, hidden lava fire, midsummer night fireflies, incense embers |
| People | Educators (teachers/writers), metaphysics researchers, performing artists, technical artisans |
| Body | Cardiovascular system, nervous pathways, teeth and gums, breast tissue |
| Geography | Cultural institutions, electronic workshops, traditional Chinese medicine clinics, network base stations |
| Flora and Fauna | Fragrant flowers like roses/hibiscus, nocturnal creatures like fireflies/cicadas, subtle poisons like snakes/scorpions |
| Objects | Electronic chips, microcircuits, acupuncture needles, aroma candle holders |
| Abstract Concepts | Thought inheritance, metaphysical secrets, beauty arts, precision technology |
Related Anecdotes
Essence of "Di Tian Sui"
"Ding Fire is gentle within, its nature is bright and harmonious"
- Reveals the essence of Ding Fire as soft on the outside but strong within. Yi Wood (flowers and plants) is its mother, Ren Water (rivers) is its utility.
- "Adaptable to autumn and winter" emphasizes Ding Fire's adaptability, thriving with Jia Wood (legitimate mother) in all seasons.
Discussion in "Yuan Hai Zi Ping"
"When timely, it can transform a thousand pounds of iron; when untimely, it cannot melt an inch of gold"
- A metaphor for Ding Fire's ability to expand and contract energy, unstoppable when vigorous, but lacking strength when declining.
- "Even with abundant wet wood, it cannot thrive" indicates Ding Fire needs dry wood to ignite, as wet wood becomes an obstacle.
Folk Poem
"People are often joyful first, known for standing up for justice"
- Displays the chivalrous demeanor of Ding Fire individuals, cool on the outside but warm inside.
- "Speak your mind directly" confirms their straightforward yet courteous communication style.