In the course of our Bazi studies, we often talk about relationships between family members, friends, colleague, potential business partners and our spouse-to-be in the elemental forms. We proceed further to analyse the interaction and reactions of the elements from one set of four pillars.

What if we want to understand the compatibility of two persons in a marriage or more persons as in a study group, as a housemate, as a business partner or just to enhance the parent-child relationship?

Perhaps, one of the most basic and easiest ways to analyse a relationship is through the day and year pillars. Let us take an example, John and Sally. We shall take John's day pillar against Sally's year pillar to analyse John's attitude, intent and relationship towards Sally and vice versa.

First there is the interaction of the heavenly stems that reveal the outward attitude and what is obvious to the naked eyes. These also refer to the physical affection and demands. We can also relate it to materialistic wants and gains.

Secondly, we have the interaction of the earthly branches which reveal the unseen factors. These are usually the affairs of the heart and mind. It may refer to genuine love affairs, intellectual and personality compatibility.

Thirdly, we have the interaction of the hidden stems. These reveal the ulterior motives or the unexplainable attitude. Most importantly, these stems often reveal the secret intents of the day master.

With the information gathered, we can make informed choices. We anticipate and are mentally and physically prepared should there be any head-on collision.

Other applications used to forecast the outcome include the Plum Blossom method, Xuan Kong Divination techniques, Bazi Divination analysis and the Zi Wei calculations, to name a few.

Finally, take all things with a pinch of salt. There is no documented proof in the history of Chinese metaphysic of such an interpretation but I guess there is no harm in writing up a journal for your own documentation and analysis.

Loosely translated from Sun Tze's war manual, he stated that 'To know your enemies well, the war is already won'. I say, 'To know your partner well, make survival more wonderful.'