The central principle of interpreting a Bazi chart is that of balance. Anything that contributes to balance is seen as favourable, while imbalance, whether due to excessive “weakness” or excessive “strength,” is seen as negative in both cases.

In the process of assessing the degree of balance of the birth chart, the first step is determined by the cosmic season (i.e., the time of year) in which the person was born.

To find out what the four cosmic seasons of the year are, according to the ancient Chinese solar calendar, refer to the respective entry.

Depending on the compatibility between the Day Master (or “Personal Element”) and the cosmic season of birth, the Day Master will be classified as “strong” or “weak,” according to the TABLE that accompanies this entry.

The logic behind this table is as follows: A Day Master (Personal Element) is considered “prosperous” in the season with which it has a natural affinity. Wood has a natural affinity with cosmic spring, hence, it is “prosperous” in that season. Fire has a natural affinity with summer, so it is “prosperous” in that cosmic season. Earth, having no affinity with any of the four cosmic seasons, is “strong” in summer since summer has an affinity with Fire, and Fire generates Earth.

Finally, Metal has a natural affinity with autumn, so it is “prosperous” in that cosmic season, as is Water with respect to cosmic winter.

In seasons whose natural element gives birth to the Day Master’s element, it is considered that the Day Master is also “strong,” as can be seen in the TABLE accompanying this entry. Thus, Wood is also “strong” in winter, Fire is “strong” in spring, Earth is “strong” in summer, and Water is “strong” in autumn.

In all other seasons where the Day Master’s element is neither “prosperous” nor “strong,” it is considered “weak.”