Jia (甲)
Basic Explanation
- The first of the Ten Heavenly Stems, associated with Yang Wood, primarily representing benevolence in the Five Elements, corresponding to the east in direction and spring in season.
- Naturally characterized as towering trees, symbolizing the energy of growth, with qualities of upward growth and resilience.
- Originating from ancient astronomy and the Five Elements theory, representing the sprouting stage of things, described in "Yuan Hai Zi Ping" as "originally without branches and roots."
Personality
Positive Traits
✓ Robust and upright: Like the timber of a pillar, preferring to break rather than bend
✓ Active and enterprising: Possessing a life force that continually grows upward
✓ Benevolent and generous: Like a large tree sheltering others, with leadership qualities
✓ Strong sense of responsibility: Valuing trust and promises, meticulous and reliable in actions
Negative Traits
✗ Stubborn and rigid: Lacking flexibility and adaptability
✗ Strongly subjective: Prone to excessively interfering in others' affairs
✗ Slow and dull: Relatively weak in adaptability
✗ Arrogant and easily angered: Tends to show irritability when frustrated
Symbolism and Meaning
| Category | Specific Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Nature | Towering ancient trees, primeval forests, spring thunder and lightning, mountain stone beams |
| People | Leaders (such as heads of state, commanders), industry pioneers, authoritative experts, family elders |
| Body | Head nerves, liver and gallbladder system, limbs and bones, hair and nails |
| Geography | Government agencies, skyscrapers, wooden bridges, high-voltage towers |
| Flora and Fauna | Pine and bamboo plants, large feline animals like lions and tigers, long-necked birds like cranes |
| Objects | Wooden furniture, beam and column structures, percussion instruments, traditional weapons |
| Abstract Concepts | Political affairs, innovation and reform, public service, vitality of spring |
Related Anecdotes
Essence of "Di Tian Sui"
"Jia Wood towers to the sky, needs fire to transform. Spring does not tolerate metal, autumn does not tolerate earth."
- In spring, Jia Wood is strong and should avoid being cut by metal; in autumn, Jia Wood needs earth to nurture but should avoid being buried deeply.
- Fire is crucial for Jia Wood to become talented (fire symbolizes refinement), and if water is abundant, Yin Wood is needed to stabilize the roots.
Discussion in "Yuan Hai Zi Ping"
"To last a thousand years in heaven and earth, bury deeply in sand and mud."
- Emphasizes that Jia Wood needs deep roots to achieve greatness
- "Turning to ash, fire is a disaster" warns of the principle that being too rigid can lead to breakage
Folk Poetry
"People born under Jia Wood are the smartest, with deep planning and foresight as heroes."
- Highlights the strategic and far-sighted characteristics of Jia Wood people
- "Sacrificing oneself for others is evident" reflects their protective and helpful nature