What are destructive relationships (Xi, Chong, Hai, Po) in Four-Pillar astrology?

Destructive relationships (commonly translated as Clash, Punishment, Harm, and Break) point to branch interactions that create conflict, loss, or internal stress. They signal challenges, sudden events, illnesses or legal matters—but can also catalyze transformation.

Four destructive types:
• Six Clashes (Liu Chong): Opposing branches (Zi-Wu, Chou-Wei, Yin-Shen, Mao-You, Chen-Xu, Si-Hai). These bring sharp changes—relocation, separation, or sudden crises. The nature of the clash depends on which elements are involved.
• Three Punishments (San Xing): Patterns of internal suffering and ongoing friction (e.g., Zi-Mao punishment; Yin-Si-Shen punishment). These often relate to legal trouble, chronic conflict, or internal self-punishment.
• Six Harms (Liu Hai): Pairs that imply secret undermining or sabotage (e.g., Zi-Wei). Harms often surface as hidden enemies or subtle erosion of trust.
• Six Breaks (Liu Po): Lighter, more internal forms of damage—small ruptures, interrupted plans, relationship fissures.

Core principle: Destructive patterns are not automatically bad. If a clash hits a person’s useful star it can weaken them; if it hits a harmful star, it can clear obstacles and become beneficial. Full-chart context (what’s being clashed, the day-master’s strength, luck cycles) determines the real outcome.