Branch Relations (Xing Chong He Hai) — Full Taxonomy

Xing chong he hai (刑冲合害) is the umbrella term for the ways earthly branches act on one another in a BaZi chart.

The taxonomy

Combining relations: three harmonies and half harmonies, directional trios, six harmonies, and hidden combinations. Opposing relations: the six clashes. Punishments: three-branch punishments, the 子卯 mutual punishment, and self-punishments. Then the six harms and the six destructions. At pillar level, fu yin and fan yin describe a whole pillar repeating or reversing another.

How they are read

None of these is a verdict by itself. Each is a mechanism — binding, disturbing, entangling — and whether it helps or hurts depends on the day master's strength and on whether the branch it acts on carries a favourable or unfavourable element.

Related terms

Stem combinations · Six harmonies · Six clashes · Three harmonies