How to Create a BaZi Chart: A Beginner's Guide

Step 1: Gather Essential Birth Information

To construct a BaZi chart, you'll need:

• Date of Birth: Year, Month, and Day.
• Time of Birth: Exact hour (if unknown, proceed without the Hour Pillar).
• Time Zone: Adjust for time zone differences and daylight saving time.

Step 2: Convert the Gregorian Date to the Chinese Solar Calendar

BaZi uses the Chinese Solar Calendar, starting around February 4th each year. Convert your Gregorian birth date to the corresponding Chinese Solar Calendar date using online tools or software.

Recommendation: Use tools like the Chinese Calendar Converter to simplify this process.

Step 3: Identify the Four Pillars

The Four Pillars correspond to the Year, Month, Day, and Hour of your birth. Each pillar consists of a Heavenly Stem and an Earthly Branch:

• Year Pillar: Represents your early years and ancestors.
• Month Pillar: Reflects upbringing and career beginnings.
• Day Pillar: Represents you (Day Master) and relationships.
• Hour Pillar: Indicates ambitions, children, and later years.

Step 4: Assign the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches

Use the following references to assign the correct elements:

• Heavenly Stems: Jia (Yang Wood), Yi (Yin Wood), Bing (Yang Fire), Ding (Yin Fire), etc.
• Earthly Branches: Zi (Rat), Chou (Ox), Yin (Tiger), etc.

Example: For someone born in 1990, the Year Pillar is Geng Wu (Yang Metal Horse).

Step 5: Analyze the Chart

Once the chart is complete, analyze it for:

• Day Master: The Heavenly Stem of the Day Pillar, representing the self.
• Elemental Balance: Check for the Five Elements' representation and harmony.
• Interactions: Assess generating and controlling cycles for insights into relationships and challenges.