The Five Elements
To be talking about Feng Shui, we have to understand the five elements; the relationship of the very five elements which bring about the formation of this Universe. They are the Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water.
All forms in this Universe belong to either one the above-mentioned five elements and are in one way or another, mutually affecting one another, which in turn affect our life. This is an ever-going cycle in the law of Nature.
The Productive Cycle
Water generates Wood:
The rain nourishes the Earth, bringing about the growth of the plants and trees.
Wood generates Fire:
The plants and trees are by nature, combustible matter which generates fire.
Fire generates Earth:
Under flames, article turn into ashes which form soil.
Earth generates Metal:
Soil contains minerals which over time, form metal.
Metal generates Water:
Under flames, metal melt into liquid state and likewise water dew is formed quickly on cool metal surfaces.
The Destructive Cycle
Water destroys Fire:
Water can extinguish fire
Fire destroys Metal:
Fire can melt metal
Metal destroys Wood:
Metal cut wood apart
Wood destroys Earth:
Wood can thrust into soil
Earth destroys Water:
Soil is able to retain water, preventing flood
Too much or too little of the presence of any of the above element is never desired. A balance is always sought. For instance, too much of a heat from the sun can cause drought while too much of a rain can inversely cause flood and so on¡K
Now, in the practice of Feng Shui, a balance is in the same way sought.
In the Chinese astrological sciences, the time, year and date of birth are categorized as under one of the five elements. Similarly, the five elements are also associated with colors, seasons and directions¡K
Based on the philosophy of the productive and destructive cycle of the five elements, the application of Feng Shui help to incorporate one's astrological element accordingly; to be in harmony with the surrounding, bringing about beneficial gains.
