Libo

Tai's Forest (Sixty-fourth Forest of the Tai Hexagram)

Han (漢) · Jiao Yanshou (焦延壽) · Volume 18 / 71

Charting guides: Da Yan Yarrow Stalk Divination, Liu Yao Divination Chart

豫之損:日中為市,交易資寶。名利所有,心悅以喜。

At noon, a market is established, and people exchange goods and treasures; both fame and profit are obtained, and the heart is joyful and delighted. This divination refers to the classic passage from the Great Treatise of the Book of Changes, which states that at noon the market is set up, gathering people from all over the world. When consulting about business transactions, it indicates mutual benefit and joy.

豫之益:童妾獨宿,長女為室,利無所得。

A young servant girl living alone at night, while the eldest daughter has already married and established her own household, is a situation that ultimately brings no benefit. This situation indicates that the yin and yang are not connected and the vital energy has not yet begun to flourish. When divining about marriage or wealth, it suggests a state of empty waiting with no success.

豫之夬:忠言輔成,王政不傾。公劉兆基,文武綏之。

Faithful and upright words assist in achieving great accomplishments, ensuring the dynasty's affairs do not collapse; Gong Liu established the foundation of the Zhou dynasty, and King Wen and King Wu inherited and stabilized the world. This divination indicates the acceptance of advice and the continuation of the legacy, when questioning matters concerning the state and family affairs, it suggests a solid foundation and capable successors.

豫之姤:牛驥同堂,郭氏以亡。國破為墟,主君奔逃。

A dull ox and a swift horse share the same stable, unable to distinguish between the capable and the incompetent, leading to the downfall of the Guo state. The land becomes ruined and desolate, and the king flees in disgrace. This refers to the story of the King of Guo who was good at recognizing talent but failed to utilize it properly. When divining about employing people and managing affairs, this indicates that the wise and the foolish are reversed, leading to failure.

豫之萃:中原有菽,以待雉食。飲御諸友,所求大得。

In the open fields, beans grow and wait for the pheasants to peck at them; prepared food and wine are set out to entertain friends, and great success is expected. This oracle is taken from the line "Original beans grow in the fields" in the poem Xiao Wan from the Book of Songs, and is used to divinate matters concerning social interactions. It indicates that with the support of many, great gains will be achieved.

豫之升:多虛少實,語不可知。尊空無酒,飛言如雨。

There is a lot of empty talk and little substance; the words spoken are indeterminate. The wine vessel is empty but no wine is present, while empty words come like rain. This person is talkative but lacks substance. When consulting about rumors or promises, it indicates something that is merely named but not real, and should not be trusted lightly.

豫之困:青蠅集蕃,君信讒言,害賢傷忠,患生婦人。

A swarm of green flies gather on the fence; the sovereign listens to slander, harms the virtuous and injures loyal ministers, calamity arises from the favored concubine. This divination takes the meaning from the poem "Seagull" in the Book of Songs, which criticizes slander. When consulted about legal disputes and human affairs, it indicates disaster from slanderous accusations.

豫之井:履株履輿,馬驚傷車,步為我憂。

The cart wheel ran over a tree stump, the horse was startled and the cart was damaged, forcing me to walk, which became my worry. This forest owner experiences a change on the way and loses his support. When questioning about travel and transportation, it indicates a misfortune involving the vehicle and horses.

豫之革:商風召寇,呼我北盜。間諜內應,與我爭鬥。殫以寶藏。主人不勝。

A west wind brings in thieves, drawing in bandits from the north as well; spies within are aiding the enemy, leading to conflict with our side; the family's treasure is completely looted, and the master ultimately cannot withstand it. This indicates that the owner has an internal traitor who invites external troubles. When divining about family wealth and disputes, it foretells a great defeat and loss of property.

豫之鼎:逸豫好遊,不安其家。或有少姬,久迷不來。

He who seeks comfort and likes to wander, unwilling to stay at home; perhaps there is a young concubine outside, indulging for a long time without returning. This indicates that the person in question is indulging in pleasures and forgetting to return. When divining about family matters or travelers, it suggests that the person will leave home and not return, leading to change.

豫之震:無有驊騮,畜之以時。東家翁孺,來詣我車,價極可與,後無賤憂。

There was no famous horse like Huailiu, yet I carefully raised and bred animals according to the proper seasons. Elderly people and children from the east neighbor came to look at my carriages and horses, offering very good prices which could be agreed upon. After this, there would be no more worry about low prices. This owner has been accumulating value over a long time; divining about buying and selling livestock, it indicates waiting for the right time to sell and gaining high profits.

豫之艮:厄窮上通,與堯相逢。登升大麓,國無凶人。

In a situation of hardship and being at a dead end, one suddenly attains success and meets a sage ruler like Emperor Yao; entering the great mountain range and receiving a mandate to take office, there are no wicked people left in the country. This refers to the example of舜 being received by the great mountain range, and the divination for those inpredicament seeking advancement indicates encountering a wise ruler and being promoted.

豫之漸:眾兔俱走,熊羆在後。踦不能進,失信寡處。

A group of rabbits flee together, while bears and boars pursue them closely. One has a lame leg and cannot run, and also lacks trust from others, being alone and isolated. This indicates that the group's strength is not in harmony, and they are abandoned by others. Asking about seeking refuge or help suggests isolation and lack of support.

豫之歸妹:旁行不遠,三思復返。心多畏惡,中日止舍。

He went off to walk by the side, but did not go far before turning back repeatedly; his heart was full of fear and aversion, and he stopped for the night at noon. The owner of this forest is full of doubts and indecisive, advancing and retreating without resolution. Divination for travel and endeavors indicates that the journey will be halted midway.

豫之豐:倉皇奉使,中山以孝。文侯悅喜,擊子徵召。

In a hurried situation, he was ordered to take an official mission. In Zhongshan, he was renowned for his filial piety. Wei Wenhou was pleased and recalled his son Wei Ji. This reference uses the example of Wei Ji being appointed to govern Zhongshan to divinate about an official appointment. The interpretation suggests that success will come through virtue and being recognized and appointed.

豫之旅:入天門,守地戶,君安樂,不勞苦。

Enter the heavenly gate, guard the earthly gate, each occupying its proper position; thus the gentleman finds peace and ease, without needing to labor. This forest's master has found the proper path and remains content in his position. When consulting about residence or duties, it indicates ease and no worries.

豫之巽:等階上堂,見吾父兄。左酒右漿,與福相迎。

Proceeding in order, ascending step by step, I see my father and elder brother; on the left, wine is offered, on the right, soup is presented, and blessings come to meet me. The household of this forest is courteous and harmonious, bringing happiness and fortune. Divining about family gatherings in the household indicates auspiciousness and celebration.

豫之兌:秋蛇向穴,不失其節。夫人姜氏,自其復入。

As autumn deepens, the snake returns to its den, keeping to the proper time; just as Lady Jiang from Lu returned once more from her original place. This forest master returns in accordance with the seasons, going away and coming back again. When one divines about a traveler's return, it indicates that the traveler will arrive as scheduled.

豫之渙:忍丑少羞,有面無頭。耗減寡虛,日以削消。

A person who can endure disgrace with little shame, possessing only appearance without intelligence; family wealth is being depleted and gradually dwindling. This person is shameless and squanders the family fortune. When divining about family affairs and reputation, it indicates a gradual decline.

豫之節:景星照堂,麟遊鳳翔。仁施大行,頌聲以興。

The auspicious star illuminates the hall, qilin wander and phoenixes soar; benevolence is widely practiced throughout the world, and praise arises accordingly. This indicates that the person in question is guided by virtue and righteousness, attracting auspicious signs. When divining regarding achievements, fame, and reputation, it signifies great good fortune and a distinguished reputation.

豫之中孚:竿旄旌旗,執幟在郊。雖有寶珠,無路致之。

A flagpole adorned with a yak's tail and various colorful banners stands in the outskirts, holding the banners. Though possessing a precious pearl, there is no way to deliver it. This forest reverses the meaning of the poem "Gan Mao" from the Book of Songs, which is used to attract talents. The divination concerns offering contributions and seeking advancement, indicating that there is something possessed but no proper channel, and talent is not being utilized.

豫之小過:李華再實,鴻卵降集。仁德以興,萌國受福。

The mulberry tree blooms again and bears fruit once more, and the wild geese lay eggs and descend in groups. Beneath this, benevolence and virtue arise, and new states receive blessings. This forest signifies the revival of vitality and the establishment of a new foundation. When divining about career or descendants, it indicates renewal and the attainment of blessings.

豫之既濟:白馬赤烏,戰於東都。天輔有德,敗亡為憂。

The armies under the banners of White Horse and Red Bird are fighting in the eastern capital. Heaven supports the righteous side, and the unrighteous will only suffer defeat. This divination indicates that the one with virtue will prevail. When consulted about disputes or lawsuits, the righteous will have a favorable outcome, while the wicked will face misfortune.

豫之未濟:采薪得麟,大命隕顛。豪雄爭名,天下四分。

A woodcutter catches a qilin in the wild, symbolizing that the mandate of heaven is about to collapse; heroes and outstanding figures contend for power, causing the world to split into four parts. This reference uses the historical event of Duke Ai of Lu's western hunting and capturing a qilin, to divinate the current situation, indicating the decline of the ruling order and the emergence of rival factions vying for dominance.

Following the Forest (the 64th hexagram of the Book of Changes)

隨之隨:鳥鳴東西,迎其群侶。似有所屬,不得自專,空返獨還。

A bird calls to its companions from the east and west; it seems to have a place to belong, yet cannot make its own decisions, eventually flying back alone with nothing to show. This omen indicates that the subject is controlled by others, unable to pursue their desires fully. When seeking a partner or cooperation, it suggests there is intention but no success.

隨之乾:必自易處,不知香臭。君密於是,失其寵位。

One who thinks he can handle matters easily, unable to distinguish between fragrance and stench; the sovereign becomes too familiar and intimate in such matters, ultimately losing his position of honor. This ruler's negligence and failure to discern led to his loss of position. When divining about official positions, it indicates failure due to excessive intimacy and favoritism.

隨之坤:唐虞相輔,鳥獸喜舞。安康無事,國家富有。

Tang Yao and Yu Shun assisted each other, and even birds and beasts danced with joy; the borders were peaceful and the country was prosperous and abundant. This indicates that sages and virtuous people are working together, and when consulted about state affairs and family matters, it is highly auspicious and abundant.

隨之屯:左輔右弼,金玉滿匱。常盈不亡,富如倉廒。

On the left there is an assistant minister, on the right a counsellor; gold and jade fill the cabinets. It is always full without loss, wealthy like a granary full of grain. This indicates that the forest's master has virtuous ministers who maintain the established order. When consulting about wealth and family fortune, it shows abundant savings that can be preserved.

隨之蒙:蒼龍單獨,與石相觸,摧折兩角。

The celestial dragon is alone and walks by itself, colliding with a stone, and both of its horns are broken. This indicates that the ruler of the forest advances alone, forcefully and stubbornly, causing self-injury. If one seeks divination about a fierce struggle, it suggests encountering obstacles and suffering losses.

隨之需:釣目厭部,善逐人走。來嫁無父,不安其廬。

Her eyes are slanting and her expression shows weariness, she is accustomed to following others and moving about; she came to marry without her father's consent, and she does not feel secure living in this house. This person's roots are without support, her mind is restless, and when asking about marriage and residence, it indicates difficulty in achieving stability.

隨之訟:逐兔驅狼,避去不祥。凶惡北行,與善相逢。

Chasing wild rabbits and driving away jackals, keeping away evil things; malevolent energy goes north, and one meets good fortune. The owner of this forest removes evils and gains good fortune. If one divines about calamities or legal troubles, it indicates that misfortune departs and blessings arrive.

隨之師:齎貝贖狸,不聽我辭。繫於虎鬚,牽不得來。

Taking money and a shell to redeem the cat, but the other party would not listen to my arguments; the cat was tied to the tiger's whiskers and could not be led away no matter how I tried. The forest owner's request is controlled by the stronger party. Divining about redeeming and retrieving, the strength is insufficient and thus cannot be achieved.

隨之比:同載共輿,中道別去。喪我元夫,獨與孤居。

Originally traveling together in the same carriage, we reached the halfway point but then parted ways. I have lost my original husband and must live alone. This oracle indicates that the person in question will experience separation along the way. When divining about marriage and companionship, it suggests that the relationship will end before completion, leaving the person alone and without support.

隨之小畜:奮翅鼓翼,將之嘉國。愆期失時,乃得所欲。

It spreads its wings and soars high, heading towards a beautiful land; although it is late and has missed the time, in the end it fulfills its wish. This omen indicates that though there is a delay, the matter will ultimately succeed. When divining about endeavors, it suggests that although there may be a delay, the outcome will still be achieved.

隨之履:目傾心惑,夏姬在側。申公顛倒,巫臣亂國。

The person has crossed eyes and is confused in mind, due to the presence of Xia Ji beside them. Shen Gong Wu Chen was so entranced by her that he ultimately caused the disruption of state affairs. This oracle uses the example of Chu's Xia Ji to divinate matters related to lust and relationships, indicating that one is led astray by beauty and thus causes calamity.

隨之泰:博鳩彈鵲,逐兔山北,丸盡日暮,失獲無得。

Using stones to shoot pheasants and magpies, and then going to the north of the mountain to chase wild rabbits; the stones are used up and the sky is already dark, yet nothing is obtained. This indicates that the person is greedy for more and ends up achieving nothing. If one asks about fishing or hunting, it suggests labor without success.

隨之否:鹿求其子,虎廬之裡。唐伯李耳,貪不我許。

A mother deer searched for her fawn, eventually reaching a tiger's den; Tang Bo and Li Er, such fierce beasts, greedily ate and would not return the young deer to me. This indicates that the owner of the forest enters a dangerous situation to seek something, asking about searching for a person or object. The outcome shows that the strong do not give, and there is merely unnecessary danger.

隨之同人:敗魚鮑室,臭不可息。上山履塗,歸傷我足。

A rotten fish placed in a abalone shop, its stench prevents rest; going up and down the mountain and walking through muddy paths, returning with my foot injured. This indicates that the person in question is recently involved in evil and tainted affairs, taking risks leading to injury. When divining about social connections and travel, it suggests suffering harm and injury.

隨之大有:花燈百枝,消暗衰微。精光訖盡,奄有灰靡。

A hundred branches of flower lamps were originally bright, but gradually became dim and declined; after the brilliance was exhausted, only a pile of ashes remained. This indicates that the forest owner has reached the peak of prosperity and then declined. For those inquiring about their career and fortune, it suggests a transition from prosperity to exhaustion, and it is advisable to plan for the future in advance.

隨之謙:顏叔子夏,遨遊仁宇。溫良受福,不失其所。

Yan Hui and Zi Xia, such virtuous scholars, dwell freely in the realm of benevolence; gentle and kind, they receive blessings without losing their secure place. This forest signifies the guardian of benevolence and security. When divining about one's life and conduct, it indicates smoothness and blessings.

隨之豫:樑柱堅固,子孫蕃盛。福喜盈積,終無禍悔。

The beams and pillars of the house are strong and solid, with descendants flourishing and thriving. Good fortune and joy fill the household, ultimately without misfortune or regret. This indicates that the household has a firm foundation and prosperity. When divining about the family home and descendants, it is a great auspicious omen.

隨之蠱:邊鄙不寧,民狎於野。穡人成功,年歲大有。

The border regions are not at peace, and the common people are barely able to live in the wilds. However, farmers have a good harvest, and the year is bountiful. This forest is subject to external disturbances but has internal sufficiency. When divining about farming and livelihood, although there may be disturbances, it still indicates a good harvest.

隨之臨:蝸牛鳴呴,呼求水潦。雲雨大會,流成河海。

A snail emits a sound, calling for rain; clouds and rain gather heavily and descend, accumulating into rivers and seas. This omen indicates that a small sincerity can invoke a great response, and when inquiries or prayers are made, the desired outcome will surpass expectations.

隨之觀:志合意同,姬姜相從。佳偶在門,夫子悅喜。

The couple's aspirations align and their hearts are in harmony, with the Ji and Jiang families having intermarried for generations. A good partner has arrived at the door, bringing joy to the husband. This oracle indicates a harmonious relationship, and when divined for marriage or partnership, it foretells success and a happy union.

隨之噬嗑:白馬駁騮,更生不休。富有商人,利得如丘。

White horses and miscellaneous chestnut horses alternate in breeding without end; merchants thus become wealthy, accumulating profits in great heaps. This indicates that the master of the forest has continuous vitality and thriving wealth, and when divined regarding raising livestock and commerce, it signifies substantial profit.

隨之賁:大姒夏禹,經啟九道。各有攸處,民得安所。

Tai Si's virtue and Xia Yu's achievements shine together; Yu opened nine waterways. All things have their proper place, and the people found security. This forest indicates a ruler who governs well. When inquiring about residence and state affairs, it indicates stability and proper settlement.

隨之剝:甲戊己庚,隨時轉行。不失其心,得且安寧。唐季發憤,擒滅子嬰。

The day branches Jia, Wu, Ji, Geng, etc., progress with the passage of time; if a person does not lose his original mind, he will attain peace and security. Han Gaozu Liu Ji rose up with determination, captured and executed the son of the Qin king, Ziying. This person follows the proper time and guards his mind before taking action. When questioning about the timing for action, it indicates that one should wait for the right moment before proceeding, and thus achieve success.

隨之復:穆違百里,使孟歷武。將帥襲戰,敗於淆石。

King Qin Mu Gong disregarded the advice of Bǎilǐxī and sent Meng Mingshi, Xīqíshù, and Bái Yìbǐng on a military campaign. The generals led a long-distance expedition and suffered a great defeat in the rocky pass of Xiaoyang. This oracle uses the historical event of the Qin army's defeat at Xiaoyang to indicate that when asking about distant military campaigns, the outcome is disastrous if one does not heed loyal counsel.

隨之無妄:茅如木居,與類相投。顧慕群旅,不離其巢。

Maocao relies on trees for shelter, gathering with similar kinds; it cherishes and longs for companions, unwilling to leave its nest. This forest signifies gathering with like-minded individuals and attachment to one's homeland. When divining about moving or gathering, it indicates a preference for staying in the old place and being secure.

隨之大畜:伯仲叔季,日暮寢寐。坐臥失明,喪其貝囊。

The elder brother, second brother, third brother, and youngest brother were sleeping when it got dark, with no lights on while sitting or lying down. As a result, the bag containing money and shells was lost. The owner of the forest was lazy and negligent, and when divination was performed regarding guarding wealth and protecting property, it indicated neglect leading to loss.

隨之頤:亡羊補牢,張氏失牛。騂駟奔走,鵠盜我魚。

The owner of this forest has continuously lost property and been unable to repair the damage in time. Divination on matters of wealth and livestock indicates frequent losses. A sheep ran away before the fence was mended; the Zhang family lost their ox. Red four-horse chariots scattered and fled, and swans also stole my fish.

隨之大過:雀目燕顙,畏昏無光。思我狡童,不見子充。

Like a magpie suffering from night blindness and like a swallow with a narrow forehead, unable to see at dusk; thinking of that cunning young man in the heart, yet unable to see Zi Chong. This verse is taken from "Poetry · The Mountain Has Fu Su," used to inquire about meeting someone, indicating that the one being thought of is not encountered.

隨之坎:人和出明,動作有光。運轉休息,常樂允康。

When human affairs are harmonious, brightness naturally arises, and every movement and action shines with light. When motion and stillness are properly balanced, long-term joy and genuine health are achieved. This indicates a harmonious and auspicious situation. When consulted about various matters, it signifies peace and smooth progress.

隨之離:不勝私情,以利自嬰。其室出孤,毀其良家。

Unable to overcome personal desires, one is ensnared by greed and desire; an orphan appears in the family, and a prosperous home is thus destroyed. This oracle indicates that the person is corrupting their family for personal gain and seeking profit, leading to family ruin. When divining about the household, it signifies that misfortune arises from personal desires.

隨之咸:稱幸上令,媚悅於神。受福重重,子孫蕃功。

Praising the sovereign's decree and receiving favor, also respectfully pleasing the deities; thus receiving blessings layer by layer, with children's achievements flourishing. This person respects superiors and deities and thus receives protection. When consulting for blessings and seeking official positions, it indicates harmony between superiors and subordinates, all auspicious.

隨之恆:齊姜叔子,天命在位。實沈參墟,封為康侯。

Qi Jiang gave birth to a younger son who inherited the mandate of heaven and occupied his position. He was granted fiefdom in the former territory of Shen, the star of Shen, becoming a local lord known as Kanghou. This reference uses the example of Tang Shu Yu's grant of the state of Jin to inquire about rewards, establishment of a career, indicating that the subject is destined to receive the mandate and gain a favorable land, thus flourishing.

隨之遁:遨遊無患,出入安全,長受其歡,君子萬年。

Traveling in all directions brings no misfortune, entering and exiting is safe and secure; enjoying this happiness for a long time, the gentleman remains peaceful and prosperous. This oracle indicates that the person in question is safe in both movement and stillness. When divining about travel, it signifies long-term good fortune.

隨之大壯:被服文德,升入大麓。四門雍肅,登受大福。

He dons the robe of literary virtue, ascends the great mountain to receive a mandate and take on responsibilities; the four gates are solemn and harmonious, thus ascending the steps to receive great blessings. This oracle refers to the example of Shun receiving guests at the four gates and being received at the great mountain, and is used to inquire about official advancement. It indicates being entrusted with a position and obtaining great blessings.

隨之晉:負金懷玉,南歸嘉國。蜂蠆不螯,利入我室。

Carrying gold on one's back and holding jade in one's arms, returning south to a prosperous country; bees and scorpions do not sting people, and benefits enter one's home. The owner of this forest brings wealth safely back, divination for a distant journey seeking wealth indicates safety and gain.

隨之明夷:日在阜顛,向昧為昏。小人成群,君子傷倫。

The sun has descended to the peak of the earth mountain and is about to enter darkness; small people are gathering in groups, causing injury to the order of the virtuous. This omen indicates that clarity will turn to obscurity and the righteous energy will be suppressed. When divining about current affairs and human matters, it suggests that small people will gain power, and one should remain hidden and keep quiet.

The original text is in the public domain. The English is a machine-assisted translation of this library’s own Chinese paraphrase, checked against a fixed glossary so that technical terms match the definitions used elsewhere on this site. It is a reading aid and does not replace the original.