The five elements (Wu Xing) are wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Each of these elements symbolizes a particular pattern of motion. A long time ago, ancient Chinese recognized that the five elements were the basic substances necessary for life. For this reason, they were originally called the "five substances" (Wu Cai). Zuo's Interpretation of the Spring and Autumn Annals states: "The five substances are natural products; are used by people; and cannot be dispensed with, not a single one of them." The Book of History further clarifies by saying, "Food relies on water and fire, production relies on metal and wood, while earth gives birth to everything."
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