Hidden Stems Calculator
Reveals the 'Hidden Stems' contained within each Earthly Branch, essential for calculating element strength and Ten Gods.
What are Hidden Stems (Cang Gan)?
Hidden Stems (藏干 Cang Gan) are the Heavenly Stems that are "hidden" or contained within each Earthly Branch in BaZi astrology. While each Earthly Branch appears as a single character on the surface, it actually contains one to three Hidden Stems that represent different levels of energy or "Qi" (气).
Think of Hidden Stems as the inner structure of each Earthly Branch. Just like a tree has roots, trunk, and branches visible on the outside, but also has a complex root system hidden underground, each Earthly Branch has visible characteristics but also contains these Hidden Stems that influence element strength and Ten Gods calculations.
Main Qi (本气)
The primary Hidden Stem in each Earthly Branch. This is the dominant energy and represents the main element and characteristics of that branch. It's the most important Hidden Stem and carries the strongest influence.
Medium Qi (中气)
The secondary Hidden Stem found in some Earthly Branches. This represents a moderate level of energy and adds complexity to the branch's elemental composition. Not all branches have a Medium Qi.
Residual Qi (余气)
The tertiary Hidden Stem found in certain Earthly Branches. This represents residual or leftover energy and has the weakest influence among the Hidden Stems. Only specific branches contain Residual Qi.
Element Strength
Hidden Stems are crucial for calculating the true strength of each element in your BaZi chart. They reveal how much Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, or Water energy is actually present, which affects Ten Gods analysis and overall chart interpretation.
Why Hidden Stems Matter
Hidden Stems are essential for accurate BaZi analysis because they reveal the true elemental composition of your chart. Without considering Hidden Stems, you might underestimate or overestimate the strength of certain elements, leading to incorrect Ten Gods classifications and inaccurate personality or life path interpretations. They're like the foundation of a building - not always visible, but absolutely critical for stability.
Understanding Hidden Stems in Practice
Each of the 12 Earthly Branches contains different Hidden Stems. Here are some examples to help you understand:
Tiger (寅 Yin)
Main Qi: Jia (Wood), Medium Qi: Bing (Fire), Residual Qi: Wu (Earth). The Tiger branch is primarily Wood energy, but also contains Fire and Earth, making it complex and dynamic.
Rabbit (卯 Mao)
Main Qi: Yi (Wood). The Rabbit branch contains only one Hidden Stem - pure Wood energy. This makes it simpler and more focused than branches with multiple Hidden Stems.
Dragon (辰 Chen)
Main Qi: Wu (Earth), Medium Qi: Yi (Wood), Residual Qi: Gui (Water). The Dragon is primarily Earth, but contains Wood and Water, representing growth and adaptability.
Snake (巳 Si)
Main Qi: Bing (Fire), Medium Qi: Wu (Earth), Residual Qi: Geng (Metal). The Snake is primarily Fire energy, with Earth and Metal adding structure and refinement.
How to Use Hidden Stems
- Calculate true element strength in your BaZi chart
- Determine accurate Ten Gods classifications
- Understand the complexity of each Earthly Branch
- Get deeper insights into your personality and life path
- Identify which elements are truly strong or weak in your chart