The Earth Dog Month: October 8 – November 7
“Humility is the solid foundation of all virtues.” ~ Confucius
The month of the Dog transitions us from autumn and the cooling influence of metal element into the cold of winter. In Chinese metaphysics the Dog is called the grave of fire as it marks the ending of heat and a noticeable reduction of sunlight at this time of year. However, when the Dog and Horse come together as they do this Fire Horse year, they tend to combine forces to create more fire. This signals the potential for a warmer and drier October than usual and also a continuation of the volatility of rapid changes that fire brings which we have been experiencing throughout this year.
The continuation of volatility and rapid change could make for an interesting mid-term election cycle as well as this year Election Day falls within the Dog month rather than the Pig month. This could bring a sea change politically, and as we are beginning to pivot to the Fire Goat year this will surely set the stage for what is to come in 2027.
The zodiac sign of the Dog, also known as the sign of Aries, always brings a driven, fighting spirit. The Earth Dog pillar which is a special Fui Kong or commanding leader pillar, takes that intensity the next level. As Aries is a zodiac sign associated with both leadership and war we may see a rise in levels of hostility and power struggles for supremacy as well. This could ratchet up tensions in current global conflicts, bring a greater level of ferocity in this election cycle, and shift power dynamics in organizations large and small – some will rise and others fall. It is also possible that the Earth Dog will inspire you to vie for the top job as well.
Those who have either the Goat and or the Ox in their chart would do well to proceed with caution when relating to others this month as the Dog creates a Bully Punishment. This could put you on the receiving end of some rather harsh treatment and you may need to bite your tongue and take it on the chin rather than risk escalation. That said, there are also times when it is imperative to stand up for yourself or others and if the Bully Punishment is present, you might give as good as you get if need be. The key to navigating this energy is to use discernment and not let emotions get the better of you. Do as the Earth Dog does and be strategic! Not sure if the Goat or Ox are in your chart? Look it up here.
The Earth Dog shows us how to claim and wield power but the hexagram for the pillar of this month #15, also shows us that those with power are truly great when they can also exhibit Humility. In this hexagram we see the Earth Trigram atop the Mountain trigram. This arrangement paints a picture of a powerful mountain subordinating itself to raise up the lowly and humble Earth, like a high mountain plateau. Last month I stated that if you wish to influence others, it is always best to do so authentically, with humility, and in a manner that lifts others up. This is not only the best way to have influence but also the best way to lead. Those with true power don’t have to put others down in order to seem powerful, they can demonstrate humility and gentleness by using their power to raise others up which strengthens both parties and proves that their power is genuine. In selecting leaders may we chose those who can wield great power while maintaining their humility and humanity, and may we emulate that kind of strength in our own communities as well.
“Being humble means that we are not on earth to see how important we can become, but to see how much difference we can make in the lives of others.“ ~ Gordon B. Hinckley