Saju

Saju, also known as Gaju or Four Pillars of Destiny, is a traditional East Asian form of divination originating in China. It is based on the belief that a person's destiny is determined by the precise time of their birth. This time is represented by four pairs of characters, known as the Four Pillars. Each pillar represents a year, month, day, and hour, and each pair consists of a Heavenly Stem and an Earthly Branch.

These Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches are associated with specific elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, water) and Yin/Yang energies. The complex interplay and combinations of these elements and energies within a person's birth chart are analyzed to understand their personality, relationships, career prospects, health, and overall life path. Saju practitioners interpret these charts to offer guidance, predict potential challenges, and suggest ways to harmonize with one's destiny.

The practice is deeply rooted in Taoist philosophy and cosmology, particularly the concepts of Yin and Yang and the Five Elements. While widely practiced in Korea, Saju also has strong influences and variations in other East Asian cultures, including China (where it is known as Bazi) and Japan. It is often consulted during significant life events such as marriage, career changes, or the birth of a child. The interpretation of Saju charts requires extensive knowledge of astrological cycles, elemental interactions, and symbolic meanings.