Heavenly Stems

Alternative Term:
天干, 10 Heavenly Stems, HS

The Heavenly Stems (天干) are one of the fundamental components of the traditional Chinese calendar and cosmology. They are closely associated with Chinese astrology, Feng Shui, and other aspects of Chinese metaphysical beliefs. The Heavenly Stems are part of a larger system known as the “Gan-Zhi” or “Stem-Branch” system, which combines the Heavenly Stems with the Earthly Branches (地支) to create a cycle of 60 different combinations. This system plays a crucial role in understanding the cyclical nature of time and the influence of cosmic energies on human life.