Ba Zi, the ancient Chinese metaphysical system also known as the Four Pillars of Destiny, is a profound method of understanding and interpreting the energies that shape our lives. At the heart of Ba Zi lies the concept of Qi, the vital life force that flows through everything in the universe. In this article, we delve into the fascinating realm of the 12 Stages of Qi in Ba Zi, uncovering the intricate dance of cosmic energies that influence our destiny.

Each pillar has its own Qi stage, but its meaning varies as follows:

Hour Pillar: Unlearned lesson from the past life;
Day Pillar: Life lesson;
Month Pillar: Obstacles;
Year Pillar: Personal characteristics.

When it comes to personal characteristics, the Qi stages are divided into three categories with the following meanings:

A. Growth, Bath, Thriving, Youth, Prosperous – tends to have an easier life, personal missions are not related to war (exception: the pillar of the year FUI GONG), nobles come easily to you, has charisma.
B. Weak, Sick, Death, Grave – tends to have a more challenging life, full of betrayals, and disappointments, more oriented towards spirituality than those in category A; if there are NF elements in the pillar, she has many regrets.
C. Extinct, Conceive, Nourish – will have an encounter with death at some point, paranormal phenomena, strange occurrences, has a short memory.

About people with the Qi of Death, Grave, or Extinct– you can't tell when they died, they waited a long time before coming into this incarnation, generally, they have come to relax, they won't be very happy, but neither will it be too difficult for them.

The most powerful stage in the Destiny Chart is that of the day, followed by the month, then the year, and finally the hour. The significance of each of the 12 stages is presented below.

Description of the 12 Qi Stages

The 12 Stages of Qi in Ba Zi offer a captivating perspective on the dynamic interplay of cosmic energies throughout an individual's life. Understanding these stages provides insights into the ebb and flow of destiny, empowering individuals to navigate their life path with wisdom and purpose. As we explore the mysteries of Ba Zi, we unveil the intricate tapestry of existence woven with the threads of Qi.

Growth 1 (Origin of Qi)

The journey begins with the Origin of Qi, the primordial source from which all energy emanates. Represented by the Rat, this stage symbolizes the inception of life and the cosmic forces that set the stage for the individual's journey.

The dominant trait is creativity - The life we live around us is created by our intentions. What we desire comes through our intention and participation. Our intentions determine the evolution of creation. From what surrounds us, it later becomes a part of us. It is our responsibility to ensure that these circumstances lead us to our desires.

Bath 2 (Accumulation of Qi)

As the journey unfolds, Qi accumulates, mirroring the Ox's diligent nature. This stage signifies the gradual gathering of energy and the foundation-building phase in one's life.

The main characteristic is growth - The only thing we have control over is ourselves. Progress is necessary for happiness to be sustainable. Subsequent action (or inaction) toward the set goal will either bring positive or negative circumstances into our lives. Progress is the key to a sense of fulfillment in life. True change occurs only when we commit to changing what is in our hearts.

Youth 3 (Sprouting of Qi)

Just as a seed sprouts into a young plant, the Tiger stage marks the emergence of potential and growth. It symbolizes the unfolding of an individual's unique qualities and attributes.

The main trait is focus - What we focus on, we begin to feel. What we feel creates vibrations known as emotions. We cannot have negative thoughts or actions and expect positive spiritual growth. We must direct full attention to accomplishing a positive task to create a positive outcome.

Thriving 4 (Blossoming of Qi)

The Rabbit stage represents the blossoming of Qi, akin to a flower reaching full bloom. This phase signifies the peak of one's abilities, creativity, and the realization of personal potential.

The main trait is change - History (mistakes) will repeat itself if nothing changes. Positive, conscious change is the only way to influence and correct the past. History will continue in a non-constructive manner until positive energies rewrite it. Make that positive change, and the universe will change for the better.

If it appears in the Conception Pillar of a person, they like to be modest and make a good impression on others. In Life Pillar, it is considered a very good pillar.

Prosperous 5 (Maturation of Qi)

Like the wise and powerful Dragon, this stage represents the maturation of Qi. It embodies the culmination of experiences, wisdom gained, and the harnessing of one's innate talents.

The dominant aspect is participation - The end has no value if it leaves nothing behind. It's not about me but about 'we.' We create the meaning of life. To inspire, you must first be inspired. Clean energy and intentions are vital components that determine the significance of an outcome. Ideally, love and passion motivate those who leave a lasting mark on the Universe.

If it appears in a person's Life Pillar, it is considered a very favorable stage.

Weak 6 (Harvesting of Qi)

The Snake stage correlates with the harvesting of life's fruits. It is a time of reaping rewards, enjoying the benefits of hard work, and reflecting on the journey so far.

The dominant trait is responsibility - When there are turbulences in our own lives, most often they come from within. If we want to change our lives, it is necessary to change spiritually and internally. We must accept full responsibility for the outcome of life. Our life is what we make of it, nothing else. The mindset determines the result.

Sick 7 (Transition of Qi)

Change is constant, and the Horse stage embodies the spirit of transition. It represents a shift in life's direction, calling for adaptability and the courage to embark on new paths.

The most important aspect is connection or its absence - our past, present, and future are connected. Our body, soul, and mind are connected. Therefore, we must work to change these connections if we want something different. No step - the first, an intermediate one, or the last - is more important than the other in fulfilling a task. All are necessary. Everything in the universe is connected. Everything is big and small. Taiji contains the limit, up to the limitless.

If it appears in a person's Conception Pillar, they quickly get bored if doing repetitive tasks and are extremely demanding when doing something they don't like.

Death 8 (Gathering of Qi)

The Goat stage signifies the gathering of experiences, relationships, and knowledge. It's a time of reflection and preparation for the transformative stages that lie ahead.

The dominant aspect is here and now - the present is all we have and all we are. Looking back with regret and forward without purpose undoubtedly means missing opportunities in the present. Old thoughts and behavior patterns hinder us from moving forward. Anxiety and worry about the future will generate pain and suffering. The present is peaceful. Live each moment with gratitude and joy.

Grave 9 (Culmination of Qi)

The Monkey stage marks the culmination of Qi, akin to reaching the summit of a mountain. It symbolizes the peak of achievements, the realization of aspirations, and a sense of fulfillment.

The dominant trait is patience - Nothing of great value is ever created without patience and commitment. Fun cannot be in tune with melancholic thinking. Our rewards are claimed only through patience and perseverance. Rewards are not the end. Fulfillment is the key to long-lasting happiness.

If it appears in the Conception Pillar of a person, they struggle more to succeed.

Extinct 10 (Conservation of Qi)

In the Rooster stage, energy is conserved and focused. This phase encourages strategic planning, mindfulness, and the preservation of one's resources for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

The most important aspect is acceptance - Acceptance is a universal virtue. The humility to embrace acceptance is essential. We must first accept current circumstances to change them. Refusing to accept what is will keep it as it is. Facts don't cease to exist just because we deny them.

If it appears in a person's Life Pillar, it indicates that the person can communicate with spirits.

Conceive 11 (Storage of Qi)

The Dog stage is associated with the storage of Qi, emphasizing the need to gather strength and resources for the future. It symbolizes a time of reflection and preparation.

It can be translated as 'sow and reap' - Our thoughts and actions have consequences, both positive and negative. If we desire peace, love, harmony, prosperity, etc., we must act with intentions of peace, love, harmony, and prosperity. This is the 'Law of Cause and Effect.' The Qi or vibrational energy (thoughts, actions) we emit outward has consequences.

Nourish 12 (Transition to Origin)

The journey completes with the Transition to Origin, symbolized by the Pig. This stage represents the cyclical nature of life, as energies transition to a new cycle, marking the beginning of a fresh journey.

Tips & Trics

Check to see if and where the Qi stage from the Conception Palace appears
- There, special events related to personal past occur there
  * If the element is favorable – events will be positive
  * If the element is unfavorable – events will be negative
When encountering the Conception Palace stage, extra attention is needed
If it doubles in Destiny Chart with Conception Palace, the same stage
- A new conception occurs – the person is reborn – it is a life reset
  * If the element is favorable – the reset will be positive
  * If the element is unfavorable – the reset will be negative
If it doubles in the pillar of a year with Conception Palace, the same stage, even if the element is favorable
- No marriage
- No investment
If it doubles in Life Pillar with Conception Palace, the same stage
- Usually, individuals are much more rational, more realistic
- The possibility of making a lot of money, but they won't be happy in love
If it doubles in Year Pillar with Conception Palace, the same stage
- As it begins, so it ends – how the first 7 years of life are, so will old age
If it doubles in the Year Pillar with the Life Pillar, the same stage
- As it begins, so it is – how the first 7 years of life are, so will be the whole life