BaZi Concepts
What Are the Six Combinations (Liu He) in BaZi?
Also called: Liu He, Earthly Branch Six Combinations
Plain Explanation
The Six Combinations are six fixed pairs of Earthly Branches that combine. “Six” counts the pairs; it does not require six Branches to appear together. Identifying a pair does not establish transformation or a favorable effect.
Example
For example, comparing Zi (子) with Chou (丑) identifies one of the Six Combinations; Mao (卯) with Xu (戌) identifies another. These are Earthly Branch pairs, distinct from the Five Combinations of Heavenly Stems. Recognizing a pair does not replace the Branches with another element.
A relationship-identification example, not a complete chart or a prediction.
The six Branch pairs
| Relationship | Complete Configurations |
|---|---|
| Six Combinations (Liu He, 六合) | Zi–Chou (子–丑); Yin–Hai (寅–亥); Mao–Xu (卯–戌); Chen–You (辰–酉); Si–Shen (巳–申); Wu–Wei (午–未) |
This table identifies fixed pairs. It does not assign transformation results or establish that transformation has occurred in a particular chart.
How to Check
- 1
Identify the Branches being compared
Locate the Earthly Branches below the Heavenly Stems. State whether you are comparing natal positions, a cycle with the natal chart, or two charts.
- 2
Identify the pair before assessing its role
Check for a pair in the table, then consider positions, strength, and other relationships. The label “combination” cannot replace whole-chart analysis.
What It Is Used For
The Six Combinations explain combination labels in chart and compatibility discussions. They distinguish two-Branch pairings from Three Harmony Combinations and Heavenly Stem combinations. Identifying the Branches is the starting point for assessing their role.
Common Misunderstandings
A combining pair does not establish transformation
A fixed pairing identifies a relationship; transformation requires a further judgment. This entry gives no rule for automatically replacing a combination pair with an element.
A combination does not guarantee favorability or compatibility
Consider which function the combination involves and whether it helps or hinders what is needed. One pair cannot determine an entire chart or a relationship between two people.
A combination does not always resolve a clash
The classical text Zi Ping Zhen Quan gives examples of combinations resolving clashes. The commentator Xu Lewu also emphasizes positions, qualities, and strength; combinations are not unconditional solutions to every clash.
Related Concepts
Updated 2026-10-16 · Editorial Policy