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#Twelve Earthly Branches #Six Conjunctions (Liu He) #Qi Transformation (Hua Qi) #Pre-Qin Philosophy #Ancient Cosmology

A Critical Examination of the Qi Transformation of the Twelve Earthly Branches' Six Conjunctions

This paper strips away the veneer of divination and numerology to return to Pre-Qin astronomy and cosmology, critically examining the true nature of the Six Conjunctions (Liu He) among the Twelve Earthly Branches (Zi Chou, Yin Hai, Mao Xu, Chen You, etc.). It focuses on analyzing the essential 'astronomical copulation' of the Six Conjunctions and the philosophical implications—such as concealment, generation, refinement, and transformation—embedded within their 'Qi Transformation' (Hua Qi).

Tianwen Editorial Team January 30, 2026 12 min read PDF Markdown
A Critical Examination of the Qi Transformation of the Twelve Earthly Branches' Six Conjunctions

I. Astronomical and Etymological Investigation

Wu (午) is the designation for the 5th month. Its form resembles a pestle, marking the interchange of Yin and Yang. Shuowen Jiezi states: "Wu, is wǔ (to conflict/oppose). In the fifth month, Yin energy opposes Yang." Wei (未) is the designation for the 6th month. Its form resembles overlapping branches and leaves. Shuowen Jiezi states: "Wei, is wèi (flavor/ripeness). In the sixth month, flavors mature."

Question: Wu is the extreme Yang Fire, and Wei is Dry Earth. When they harmonize, do they ultimately transform into Fire or Earth$14 Ancient texts present conflicting views.