Ren (壬)
Basic Explanation
- The ninth of the Ten Heavenly Stems, associated with Yang Water, represents intelligence in the Five Elements, corresponds to the northern direction, and the mid-winter season.
- Its natural attribute is the vast flow of rivers and seas, described in "Yuan Hai Zi Ping" as "vast and encompassing all rivers," symbolizing boundless momentum.
- Originating from the utmost Yang of the Five Elements Water, it has the function of nourishing all things, ancient texts refer to it as "flowing without stagnation, transforming with affection."
Personality
Positive Traits
✓ Exceptional intelligence: Like rivers and seas accepting all streams, possesses a strategic macro vision
✓ Adaptability: Like water flowing with the current, adept at adjusting to changing circumstances
✓ Courageous: Embodies a spirit of adventure, fearless of difficulties
✓ Broad social connections: Like water nourishing all things, possesses strong inclusiveness and affinity
Negative Traits
✗ Capriciousness: Prone to indulgence and lack of restraint
✗ Inconsistent: Lacks perseverance, easily gives up halfway
✗ Deep scheming: Skilled in using intelligence, occasionally shows calculating tendencies
✗ Emotional fluctuations: Temperament like tides, rising and falling unpredictably
Symbols and Meanings
| Category | Specific Symbols |
|---|---|
| Nature | Milky Way waterfall, torrential rain and wind, underground rivers, winter cold currents |
| People | Maritime explorers, water conservancy experts, diplomatic envoys, performers |
| Body | Bladder and urinary system, blood circulation, lymphatic tissues, bone marrow fluids |
| Geography | Shipping docks, water conservancy hubs, aquariums, underground pipelines |
| Flora and Fauna | Marine life like dolphins/whales, water-storing plants like rubber trees/cacti, nocturnal creatures like bats |
| Objects | Ship equipment, refrigeration machinery, liquid containers, lubricants |
| Abstract Concepts | International trade, logistics and transportation, data computation, strategic intelligence |
Related Anecdotes
Essence of "Di Tian Sui"
"Connected with Gui (癸), rushing skyward and earthward"
- Reveals that Ren Water needs the assistance of Gui Water (rain and dew) to achieve a grand momentum
- "Following and assisting" indicates that when Ren Water is strong, it can accomplish extraordinary feats
Discussion in "Yuan Hai Zi Ping"
"Flowing freely across the world without boundaries"
- Describes the unrestrained and free nature of Ren Water
- "When fire and earth meet, the source dries up" warns that excessive fire and earth can dry up water (fire evaporates water, earth blocks water flow)
Folk Poetry
"After drinking a cup of wine from others, return the favor by tomorrow"
- Demonstrates the straightforward and righteous style of Ren Water individuals
- "Deep planning and foresight are always advisable" reminds them to restrain their impulsive nature