About the Chinese Almanac (Huang Li)
The Chinese Almanac, also known as the Lunar Calendar or Tong Sheng, is a crucial calendrical system deeply rooted in traditional Chinese culture. It integrates astronomy, calendrical science, the theory of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements, along with the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches calendrical cycle. Based on the lunar calendar and combined with the 24 solar terms, zodiac animals, and interactions of the Five Elements, it forms a sophisticated system for selecting auspicious dates.
The Almanac calculates daily combinations of Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches and their relation to the cosmic order to evaluate daily auspiciousness and taboos. It provides guidance on significant life events such as weddings, business openings, groundbreaking ceremonies, rituals, and travel. At its core, the Chinese Almanac embodies the principle of “Harmony between Heaven and Humanity”, emphasizing the harmonious coexistence of humans with nature and time to seek fortune and avoid misfortune.
With thousands of years of inheritance and development, the Chinese Almanac remains an integral part of folk culture and continues to play an important role in modern life. Its scientific methods of date selection and philosophical foundations make it a unique cultural symbol that bridges ancient wisdom and contemporary practices, helping individuals plan their timing wisely and enhance life quality and spiritual well-being.
