Elements and the Visible Planets

Melissa Leib

Melissa Leib

I learned today that the 5 elements integral to Feng Shui come from the five observable planets we can see from Earth with the naked eye. It makes sense that what was observed is the basis for science thousands of years ago. 

Interestingly, this month is the easiest to see all 5 planets at various times from sunset until sunrise, depending on where you live. 

The element planet connection is also likely based on colors-Mars looks red, Mercury has a blue hue, Jupiter, browns and greens, Venus looks golden, Saturn is considered earth. Jupiter is 木星 (Mùxīng), the Wood Star. Mars is 火星 (Huǒxīng), the Fire Star. Saturn is 土星 (Tǔxīng), the Earth Star. Venus is 金星 (Jīnxīng), the Metal or Gold Star, and Mercury is 水星 (Shuǐxīng), the Water Star.

Stay tuned for more elemental information, and be sure to try to spot the planets this month if you are able.