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Five Elements in Date Selection

In Chinese date selection, each day has an elemental quality derived from its stem-branch combination. Understanding these Five Element (五行, Wu Xing) energies helps match dates to specific activities and personal elemental needs.

Last updated · Jan 15, 2026

Verifiable sources & quotesElemental timing
Five Elements in Date Selection — elemental considerations

Meaning and Context

Every day has elemental associations through its Heavenly Stem and Earthly Branch. These elements interact with the elements of activities and individuals, adding a layer of personalized date selection.

  • Wu Xing (五行): The Five Elements — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water
  • Day element: Primarily from the day's Heavenly Stem
  • Supports: Choosing days whose element benefits your purpose
  • Personal matching: Selecting days that complement your Bazi needs

Classical Roots

From Xieji Bianfang Shu
「五行配日,各有所宜,择日当察其气。」
Plain translation
"The Five Elements correspond to days, each suitable for different things — in date selection, observe their qi." Elements matter for timing.

Elements and Activities

Traditional elemental associations:

  • Wood days: Growth, education, starting new ventures
  • Fire days: Celebrations, publicity, passionate endeavors
  • Earth days: Real estate, agriculture, stable matters
  • Metal days: Financial matters, legal affairs, decisive actions
  • Water days: Travel, communication, flexible matters

How It Shows Up in FateFolio

In FateFolio's date selection, the day's elemental quality is displayed. When you provide your birth data, the tool can suggest days whose elements support your personal needs based on Bazi analysis.

Common Misconceptions

  • Thinking element alone determines day quality — it's one factor among many
  • Assuming everyone should choose the same element day — personal needs vary
  • Ignoring that elements interact — what's good depends on the full context

FAQ

How do I know which element day is best for me?

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This depends on your personal Bazi (Four Pillars) chart. If your chart needs more Water, for example, Water-element days might be more supportive for you. A Bazi analysis identifies your favorable and unfavorable elements, which can then inform date selection for personalized results.