ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Five elements (China)

In China there is an idea called the "five elements" which people use to help understand the world around them. The five elements are: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Think of it like building blocks to make things.

- Wood is like a tree that grows and keeps things sturdy.
- Fire is like a candle that sheds light and warmth.
- Earth is like dirt and soil that help plants grow and keep us stable.
- Metal is like a hammer that helps us build things strong.
- Water is like a river that flows and helps us drink and grow plants.

People believe that everything in the world is made up of some combination of these five elements. They can also represent different things like seasons, emotions or directions. By understanding the five elements, people can better understand and balance the world they live in.