BaZi Analysis - Classical system vs Modern system

A lot of readers are probably thinking that information in this blog can be used to complement the BaZi knowledge they already gained from studying modern books. Well, really that is not the case. Classical BaZi has very different rules from modern BaZi. The two are distinct systems, easily distinguishable from each other.

In this post, I want to present some core differences between the two system. Before that, let me say that I am better versed in the classical system and I might not be totally correct with the modern system

1. The function of the strength of DM

In modern BaZi, the strength of the DM is given the highest priority. In general, Strong DM prefers Outputs, Wealth and Officers while Weak DM prefers Parallels and Seals.

In classical BaZi, the strength of the DM is secondary to chart structure. Strong DM is favorable when the structure is Wealth, Officer or Output. Weak DM is favorable when the structure is Seal.


2. The function of chart structure and useful god

In modern BaZi, chart structure or useful god can be derived from any of the stems or branches in the chart, after referencing the strength of the DM to the month EB

In classical BaZi, chart structure and useful god can only be derived from the month EB, unless the month EB carries no useful god, as in the case of JianLu / YueJie structure.


3. Benevolent and Malevolent Gods

Modern BaZi does not stress the importance of grouping the gods into these two categories, hence, the two polarities often carry the same functions

Classical Bazi stresses heavily on the difference between benevolent and malevolent gods. Benevolent gods are Food god, Wealth, Officer and Seal. Malevolent gods are Hurting Officer, 7K, YangRen and Owl god (Indirect Seal).

A very obvious difference is in modern BaZi, a strong DM does not favor Indirect Seal. In classical BaZi however, DM is preferred to be strong when the structure is Indirect Seal.


4.  The concept of 顺用 'going towards' and 逆用 'going against'

In modern BaZi, this concept is rarely emphasized as the focus of the analysis is on the strength of DM, weighing the DM against all other stems and branches

In classical BaZi, this concept is very important. It is the basis of analyzing BaZi. Without understanding what are they, it is impossible to run an analysis

There are a lot of information in this blog and it is can be overwhelming to BaZi beginners. Also, it can be very confusing to modern bazi practitioners as to why the information in this blog contradicts what they have learnt before.