Traditions10 min
Sexagenary cycle ganzhi: five elements, twelve animals
The sexagenary cycle ganzhi pairs ten heavenly stems with twelve earthly branches over sixty years. Oracle-bone origins, elements, animals, and time as return.
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Definition
Five Elements
What is Five Elements?
Chinese theory linking wood, fire, earth, metal and water to explain the world's cycles.
Articles that cover it
Arts12 min
The vermilion of the torii: why Asian temples are these colours
Red that repels evil and protects wood, the gold of the Buddha, the five colours of dancheong: what the colours of Japanese, Chinese and Korean shrines actually say.
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Culture6 min
Feng shui: the Chinese art of harmonizing space and qi
History and principles of feng shui, the Chinese art of harmony: qi, yin and yang, the five elements, the luopan compass, and the line between tradition and superstition.
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Traditions19 min
Chinese Zodiac: The Twelve Animals and Their Legend
From twelve animals to five elements, the Chinese zodiac hides a fascinating cosmology. The great race legend, the betrayed cat, and Fruits Basket.
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