Ten Gods
Definition
Ten Gods are BaZi’s core symbolic layer: take the day stem (Day Master) as “self,” see whether other stems (and revealed hidden stems) same-as-me / I-generate / I-control / control-me / generate-me, then overlay same or opposite yin/yang to obtain ten names.
They do not describe moral good or bad—only relation types and common imagery tendencies.
Place in the system
- Chart the four pillars and fix the Day Master.
- Use Five-Element generation/control for the broad class, yin/yang for Direct vs Indirect.
- Then discuss favorable/unfavorable factors with month command, rooting, patterns, and luck cycles.
Stem–branch and Five-Element basics: Stems and Branches, Five Elements.
Ten categories at a glance
| Broad class | Same yin/yang | Opposite yin/yang |
|---|---|---|
| Same as me | Peer | Rob Wealth |
| I generate | Eating God | Hurting Officer |
| I control | Indirect Wealth | Direct Wealth |
| Controls me | Seven Killings | Direct Officer |
| Generates me | Indirect Resource | Direct Resource |
Full lookup table: Ten Gods Matrix.
Common pitfalls
- Treating Ten Gods as personality labels while ignoring strength and combinations.
- Judging from a single point such as the year pillar or day branch alone.
- Mixing spirit-star conclusions from different schools with Ten-God readings.
- Ignoring how luck cycles and annual pillars change “who is in command.”