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Roots · Strength framework

Strong and Weak Roots in Bazi (強根與弱根)

Compare root quality through qi layer, month command, season, repetition, support, and branch condition instead of using a binary or fixed-weight shortcut.

Simplified Chinese
强根与弱根
Traditional Chinese
強根與弱根
Pinyin
Qiánggēn yǔ Ruògēn
Also known as
root strength · strong-root weak-root distinction

Editorially reviewed:

Overview

Strong and weak roots describe the quality of stem support found in the branches. A primary root in season, especially at the Month Command or repeated without serious damage, is generally stronger evidence than an isolated residual root out of season. This is a comparative framework, not a universal score: the chart’s support, restraint, climate, and interactions must be shown.

At a glance

Strong-root evidence
Leading qi, in season, repeated, and intact
Weak-root evidence
Minor layer, out of season, isolated, or damaged
Primary comparison
Same visible stem across actual supporting branches
Season anchor
Month Command and climate
Interaction checks
Generation, control, combinations, and clashes
Limit
No universal root-strength percentage

Inventory every qualifying root first

For the visible stem being assessed, list each supporting branch, hidden stem, qi layer, pillar position, and whether the branch is repeated.

Do not select only the strongest-looking root. Complete inventory prevents contradictory evidence from disappearing.

  • One row per root source.
  • Keep primary, middle, and residual roots distinct.

Apply seasonal and positional context

A root in the Month Branch can carry strong seasonal relevance, but the exact phase, solar-term segment, and climate still matter. Roots elsewhere may reinforce or oppose that signal.

Distance can affect emphasis in some methods, yet it should not erase a valid root or override a direct relation without explanation.

  • Anchor the comparison in Month Command.
  • State any position rule.

Test support and damage together

Generation, repetition, and exposure can strengthen continuity. Clashes, combinations, control, drain, or transformation conditions can redirect or weaken it.

A clashed branch is not automatically deleted, and a combined branch is not automatically transformed. Record status rather than forcing a binary result.

  • Show strengthening evidence.
  • Show damage and blocking evidence.

Do not equate root strength with life quality

A strong root is not automatically favorable, and a weak root is not automatically bad. Favorability depends on what the chart requires.

Root strength cannot diagnose health, resilience, family stability, or success. Keep interpretation conditional and non-consequential.

  • Strength and usefulness are different questions.
  • No human ranking from root grade.

Sources and editorial basis

  1. 《三命通會》 (Sanming Tonghui)
    卷二旺衰論以月令、得地、透藏、重疊和制化合參，支持強根弱根為多條證據的比較結果A historical compilation covering stems and branches, Ten Gods, Nayin, Shen Sha, and multiple classical pattern systems.
  2. OpenFate Editorial Methodology
    強弱根不使用跨流派通用的虛構百分比；評級須列出氣層、季節、重複、支援和受損理由OpenFate separates deterministic chart calculation, traditional interpretation, and modern editorial explanation.
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