Zhen's Forest (the 64th hexagram Zhen)

解　清潔淵塞，為讒所言。證訓詰情，繫於枳溫。甘棠聽斷，昭然蒙恩。（師之蠱）

A person of upright character and deep integrity is instead slandered and falsely accused; temporarily detained in prison due to interrogation of the case. Fortunately, he encounters an enlightened official like Zhao Bo who hears cases under the Gan Tang tree, leading to the case being cleared and the person receiving grace. This master of the forest was falsely imprisoned but eventually exonerated, starting with misfortune and ending with good fortune. The note at the end indicates that this forest is the same as the text of the hexagram "Military" and "Gǔ" (Guilt).

損　皋陶聽理，岐伯悅喜。西登華道，東歸無咎。

Gao Yao presides over criminal justice, handling cases with fairness, and Qi Bo is pleased with this. Going westward along the path to Hua Mountain, or eastward returning home, there will be no mistakes. This forest is the master of fair judgment, suitable for all comings and goings, without calamity, it is auspicious.

益　低頭竊視，有所畏避。行作不利，酒酸魚敗。眾莫貪嗜。（鼎之解）

Looking down and secretly glancing, with fear and avoiding, thus actions are not smooth, the wine has turned sour and the fish has spoiled, and no one is willing to eat greedily. This indicates the owner of this forest is anxious and things are blocked, goods have failed to sell, and endeavors are not favorable. The final note shows that this forest is the same as the text of the hexagram "Ding" and "Jie."

夬　十雉百雛，常與母俱。抱雞搏虎，誰肯為娛。

Ten wild chickens and hundreds of young birds constantly follow their mother; yet if one were to take a chicken and fight a tiger, who would consider this a pleasant thing? This forest's master and his followers rely on each other and can still protect themselves. However, when the weak challenge the strong, they invite their own destruction.

姤　高阜山陵，峻□顛崩。為國妖祥，元后以薨。

A high mountain and hill with a steep peak suddenly collapsed; mountain collapse is an omen of disaster for the state, and the king therefore died. This forest indicates heavenly changes signaling calamity, with a great mourning at the top, which is extremely凶. The original text has missing characters, indicated by □.

萃　六鷁退飛，為襄敗祥。陳師合戰，左股疾傷。遂以崩薨，霸功不成。（蹇之蠱）

The Spring and Autumn Annals, in the sixteenth year of Duke Xiang's reign, recorded six egrets flying backwards over the capital of the State of Song, which was considered an ominous sign of the Duke's eventual downfall. Later, he led his army to fight the Chu at Hong Water, suffered a severe injury to his left leg, and died from the wound, thus failing to achieve his hegemonic ambitions. This entry indicates an ominous omen preceding an unexpected event, military engagement resulting in injury, and ultimate failure, which is a great misfortune. The concluding note states that this entry is similar in meaning to the 'Gǔ' section of the 'Jiǎn' hexagram.

升　異國殊俗，情不相得。金木為仇，酋賊擅役。（家人之未濟）

Being in a foreign land, with different customs, feelings cannot be communicated; like metal and wood mutually controlling each other, hostile people act tyrannically and impose labor. This forest's master and guest dwell in different places, unable to harmonize, being controlled by others, which is ominous. The note at the end indicates that this forest is the same as the "Not Yet Completed" section of the "Family" hexagram.

困　鴉噪庭中，以戒災凶。重門擊柝，儕憂暴客。

A crow is noisy in the courtyard, indicating a warning of impending misfortune; The Zhou Changes (I Ching), in its Great Treatise, says, "Close all doors and beat the gong to guard against robbers," so they set up doors in layers and beat the gong to patrol at night, with everyone working together to prevent bandits. In this case, the master has already seen the ominous sign and has taken proper precautions, so by being cautious and vigilant, disaster can be avoided.

井　慈母赤子，享賜得士。獲夷服除，以安王家。側陋逢時。（除一作徐）

A kind mother nurtures her young child, and the sovereign hosts a banquet and bestows rewards, thus attracting virtuous ministers. External enemies have been subdued, and harmful troubles have been eliminated, contributing to the stability of the royal house. A person of humble origin and low status has also encountered favorable circumstances. This indicates harmony between superiors and inferiors, the resolution of external threats, and the flourishing of humble scholars, which is auspicious. The final note mentions that the character 'remove' (除) is sometimes written as 'slow' (徐) in another version.

革　跡造惡人，使得不通。炎旱為殃，年穀大傷。（坤之大有）

The trail leads into the hands of wicked people, causing all paths to be blocked; also encountering intense heat and drought causing disaster, the harvest of the year is severely damaged. The owner of this forest encounters improper people and adverse weather conditions, resulting in a poor harvest, which is ominous. The final note indicates that this forest is the same as the text in the hexagram "Kun" (Earth) and its variant "Da You" (Great Possession).

鼎　躬履孔德，以帶束帶。文王燎獵，呂尚獲福。號稱太師，封建齊國。

He who cultivates great virtue and maintains himself with propriety encounters King Wen of Zhou while hunting by the Wei River. The oracle divination foretold that the catch would not be a bear or a boar, but rather the army of a king, thus leading to the meeting of Lü Shang. Lü Shang thereby received blessings and was honored as the Grand Teacher, later being enfeoffed to establish the state of Qi. This person cultivates virtue and waits for the right time, meets a wise ruler and achieves success, which is a great auspiciousness of receiving a noble title.

震　徵將止惡，鼓鞞除賊。慶仲奔莒，子般獲福。

Military campaigns are undertaken to suppress evil, and the sound of drums and gongs signifies the removal of rebels. Guo Qingfu of Lu rebelled but was defeated and fled to Ju State, allowing the descendants of Zi Ban to clear their grievances, bringing blessings to the royal house. This case shows that the main culprit was punished and fled, transforming danger into safety, which is auspicious.

艮　良夫淑女，配合相保。多孫壽子，歡樂長久。

A virtuous man and a kind woman become spouses, remaining together and preserving each other; they have many children and long life, with joy lasting for a long time. This forest presages a harmonious marriage, abundant descendants, and enduring good fortune.

漸　逶迤四牡，思念父母。王事靡盬，不得安處。（渙之復）

The poem "Four Mares" from the Book of Songs, Xiao Ya describes four stallions galloping in a winding manner, with those on military service missing their parents. The state's duties never end, and they are always unable to settle down. This case indicates that the person is busy with royal affairs, missing their family and unable to return, yet their toil brings no blame. The note at the end shows that this case is the same as the "Huan" hexagram's "Fu" line.

歸妹　水壞我裡，東流為海。龜鼉讙囂，不得安居。（豐之兌）

A great flood ruined my village, overflowing eastward and merging into the sea; turtles and crocodiles made noise in the water, and people could no longer live in peace. This indicates that the forest is associated with water disasters destroying homes and making the old residence difficult to hold onto, which is ominous. The final note shows that this forest corresponds to the text of the 'Full' hexagram's 'Lake' line.

豐　束帛戔戔，賻我盂空。徵召送君，處號易子。

In The Zhou Changes (I Ching), the sixth line of the Gen卦 (B贲) says, "The bundle of silk is meager." The silk presented is very thin and insufficient, not even enough to fill a basin for mourning. When summoned to serve a foreign prince, those left behind weep bitterly, even to the point of exchanging children for survival. This indicates a situation where the host offers meager assistance, leading to disorder, dispersion, and hardship, resulting in a凶 (auspicious but ominous) situation of suffering.

巽　乾行大德，履贍六合。嘔喣成熟，使我福德。

Modeling the great virtue of the heavenly way, his actions are sufficient to benefit the heavens and earth in all directions; the harmonious qi gently pervades and matures all things, granting me blessings and grace. This forest's master possesses extensive virtue, benefiting all things, which is extremely auspicious.

兌　秦並六國，更相剋賊。獲惠質圉，鄭被其咎。

Qin conquered the six states, with the states fighting each other and causing mutual harm; Qin once captured King Hui of Jin and took Prince Yu as a hostage, and the state of Zheng was also involved in the misfortune. This indicates the凶 of a strong neighbor's annexation, the weak being controlled, and the resulting connected misfortune.

渙　晦昧昏冥，君無紀綱。甲子成亂，簡公喪亡。

The world is dark and murky, and the king has lost his principles; on the Jiazi day, great chaos arose, and Duke Jian of Qi was killed by the Tian clan. This indicates that the ruler has lost his order, ministers have rebelled, and the king was killed, which is a major calamity.

節　三足無頭，弗知所之。心狂精傷，莫使為明。不見日光。（小畜之復）

Three legs but no head, not knowing where to go; mind confused, vital energy damaged, no one can clarify his condition, and he sees no daylight all day. This forest signifies a situation where there is no leader among the dragons, confusion in the mind, and uncertainty in action, which is ominous. The note indicates that this forest is the same as the text of 'Recovery' in the 'Small Accumulation' hexagram.

中孚　長夜短日，陰為陽賊。萬物空枯，藏於北陸。（夬之明夷，謙之漸）

The night is long and the day short, with yin energy harming yang energy; all things are empty and withered, retreating to the northern land of darkness. This forest signifies excessive yin and weak yang, with vitality blocked and closed off; it is suitable for concealment rather than emergence, indicating misfortune. The note indicates that this forest is similar to the text of "Guai" and "Mingyi" in "Qie," and also to "Qian" and "Zhen" in "Qian."

小過　依宵夜遊，與君相遭。除煩解惑，使我無憂。（歸妹之大有）

Going out during the night, I happened to meet you; through a conversation, my worries were dispelled and my doubts resolved, so I no longer felt anxious. This indicates that the person in question meets someone secretly, their doubts are cleared, and their worries turn into peace, which is auspicious. The note at the end shows that this situation is similar to the text of the hexagram "Great Possession" from "Return to the Maiden."

既濟　逐鹿南山，知我入門。陰陽和調，國無災殘。長子出逃，須其仁君。（逃一作迎）

In the southern mountain, chasing deer, I have gathered a full load and know that I have entered the gate; yin and yang are in harmony, and there is no calamity or harm in the country; although the eldest son has gone away for a while, he is still waiting for the benevolent ruler. This forest is the master of hunting and has a good harvest, the country is peaceful and families are secure, the scattered ones will eventually find their way back, which is auspicious. The final note states that the character 'escape' is in some editions written as 'welcome'.

未濟　請騁作耳，嗇不我與，驅我父母。

He asked to borrow a carriage and horse to serve, but the other party was stingy and did not give them to him; instead, he was made to drive his parents to labor. This forest owner makes requests that are not granted, and is instead subjected to humiliation, with parents and elders suffering, which is ominous.

巽　溫山松柏，常茂不落。鸞鳳以芘，得其歡樂。（鼎之泰，需之坤，否之恆）

The trigram Xun (Wind) is repeated. On a sunny, warm slope, pine and cypress trees remain evergreen throughout the four seasons, their branches and leaves never falling. The mythical鸾 bird and the phoenix choose these trees as their shelter, dwelling among them and finding their own happiness. Pines and cypresses endure cold without withering, symbolizing the steadfastness of the gentleman in upholding his principles. The鸾 and phoenix selecting trees to dwell in represent the wise man finding a proper foundation. This forest signifies a solid foundation and ample shelter, indicating that whatever one seeks will have a long-lasting and reliable support. It is suitable to remain in a stable position and to expect joy. This same meaning is also found in the hexagram Tai (Peace) of DING, the hexagram Kun (Earth) of XU, and the hexagram Heng (Permanence) of PO.

乾　采唐沬鄉，要我桑中。失信不會，憂思鉤帶。（無妄之恆，師之噬嗑）

The trigram Xun meets Qian. In the outskirts of Mei County, I gathered female moss, and promised to meet me in the mulberry grove. These two lines come from the Book of Songs, Yong Feng, Sang Zhong, originally words of a private promise between lovers. However, the other party broke the promise and did not come, leaving me alone, touching the hook on my belt, full of sorrow. This situation indicates a broken promise and unfulfilled expectation, suggesting concerns about broken trust in human affairs. Matters should be prepared for two possibilities, and one should not rely solely on hope.

坤　有鳥飛來，集於宮樹。鳴聲畏惡，主將出去。（屯之夬）

The trigram Xun (Wind) combines with Kun (Earth). A bird flies in and perches on the tree in front of the courtyard, its cry is mournful and terrifying, causing fear. Ancients regarded the appearance of an unusual bird entering the house and making loud noises as an omen of misfortune, indicating that the master of the house will have to leave or suffer loss. This omen suggests that the household is not at peace and there will be sudden disturbances. The dwelling will undergo changes. Those who consult the oracle should be cautious and beware of unexpected events, and should not remain in their current place for long.

屯　仁政之德，參參日息。成都就邑，日受厥福。

The trigram Xun (Wind) combines with the trigram Zun (屯, Gathering). Implementing benevolent governance and accumulating virtue and grace is like grass and trees spreading their branches and leaves, growing ceaselessly day by day. Thus, settlements become cities, villages turn into towns, and the people daily receive the blessings it brings. The ancients said, "In one year, a gathering is formed; in two years, a town is built; in three years, a city is established," referring precisely to the old story of Shun tilling the land on Laishan Mountain, with the people flocking to him. This indicates great auspiciousness, signifying continuous progress in virtue and moral achievements, and a gathering of people. All affairs should be approached with tolerance and accumulation, for over time, blessings will surely come.

蒙　他山之錯，與璆為仇。夾攻吾城，傷我肌膚。邦家搔擾。（明夷巽蒙）

The trigram Xun (Wind) corresponds to the hexagram Meng (Youth). The "Book of Songs, Xiao Ya, He Ming" says, "The stone from another mountain can be used to sharpen the knife." A rough stone is originally used to polish jade, but now the rough stone has become an enemy of the jade; both sides attack my city, the weapons reach my flesh, causing turmoil in the country. This indicates that the ruler faces internal and external attacks, with virtuous and wicked people fighting each other, resulting in personal injury and national unrest. Those who make predictions should avoid creating enemies, especially situations where they are attacked from both front and back.

需　齎貝贖狸，不聽我辭。繫於虎鬚，牽不得來。（震之咸，萃之蹇，否之革，隨之師）

The trigram Xun (Wind) corresponds to the hexagram Xun. Carrying shells to redeem a leopard cat, but the other party does not listen to my words; the leopard is tied by the tiger's whiskers, and it cannot be led out. Seeking something with wealth but being controlled by the strong, this is the meaning of these four lines. The person in charge seeks something but is blocked by a powerful family, unable to redeem or rescue, and all matters of redeeming people, collecting debts, or recovering lost property will be difficult. It is advisable to delay and wait for the right time. The same pattern appears in the hexagram Zhen (Thunder) corresponding to Xian, Cui corresponding to Jian, and Po corresponding to Ge, and Sui corresponding to Shi.

訟　一簧兩舌，□言諂語。三奸成虎，曾母投杼。（師之乾）

The trigram Xun (Wind) indicates a dispute. A single tongue can utter two voices, and one may speak only flattery. Three dishonest people spreading rumors repeatedly can make the marketplace believe there is a tiger. When Mrs. Zeng San heard the same story three times that "Zeng San killed someone," she finally threw down her loom and ran away through the wall. Both stories come from the "Strategies of the Warring States," illustrating the danger of slander and the power of many mouths to turn truth into falsehood. This person is involved in verbal accusations and legal disputes. The diviner should keep away from such gossip and ensure all matters are documented to clear his name.

師　薄行搔尾，逐雲塗水。汙泥為陸，下田宜稷。

Wind Trigram signifies a teacher. One walks shallowly through water, dragging the tail in the mud, swaying it back and forth; chasing cloud shadows, advancing through muddy ground. When the mud accumulates into land, the low-lying fields are just right for planting millet. This situation symbolizes a transformation from dirt to cleanliness, from flooding to cultivation. It indicates current difficulties and muddiness, but within thepredicament lies the potential for vitality. By persisting forward, one will eventually reap the rewards. This is a divination indicating hardship first, then success.

比　天門九重，澤內難通。明登到暮，不見神公。

The trigram Xun represents Wind. The heavenly gate has nine layers of depth, as mentioned in the "Chu Ci" as "tigers and leopards guarding nine gates." Human sincerity is difficult to reach such a place. From dawn one climbs all the way until dusk, yet the divine heavenly sovereign remains unseen. This forest has many obstructions, with no way to ascend. Seeking the nobleman or presenting petitions is in vain, going back and forth without result. The one who divines should not force themselves to reach high positions, but rather seek another path or remain content with their current station.

小畜　闇昧不明，耳聾不聰。陷入深淵，滅頂成凶。（兌之井）

Wind (Xun) hexagram indicates small accumulation. One's vision is dim and unclear, hearing is impaired and comprehension is lost; with both eyes and ears blocked, a single misstep leads to falling into a deep abyss, water rising to the top of the head, resulting in great misfortune. The line 'excessive crossing leads to drowning' from the upper sixth line of the Great Overturning (Dà Guò) in The Zhou Changes (I Ching) is exactly this image. This situation indicates that the subject has blocked senses and faulty judgment, leading to the disaster of drowning. Those who divinate should beware of taking risks and must first seek clear understanding, being extremely cautious. The same meaning is also found in the Well hexagram (Jǐng) of the Lake (Dui).

履　霧露早霜，日暗不明。陰陽孽疾，年穀大傷。

The trigram Xun indicates movement. Dense fog and cold dew come early, with severe frost falling soon after, obscuring the sunlight and making it dim and unclear. Yin and yang energies become unbalanced, leading to illness and disaster. As a result, the harvest of grain for the whole year is greatly damaged. Ancients regarded premature frost as a sign of yin energy invading yang energy, indicating that the heavenly timing is not in order. This omen suggests poor agricultural yields and a disruption of the seasons. All matters concerning farming, business, and health will face setbacks. Those who divinate should prepare in advance to prevent shortages.

泰　三階土廓，德義明堂。交讓往來，享燕相承。箕伯朝王，錫我元黃。

The trigram Xun (Wind) is harmonious. The three stars of the Tai stage are level and upright, the capital city and its walls are secure, and the Son of Heaven proclaims virtue and righteousness on the Bright Hall. Guests and hosts come and go with mutual courtesy and humility, feasts follow one after another without end. The deity Ji Bo, associated with the wind, also comes to pay homage to the king, bestowing upon me dark-colored and yellow-colored silk and cloth. The levelness of the Tai stars is a sign of universal peace, and the Bright Hall is the place for governing the state. This forest is very auspicious, indicating harmony between superiors and inferiors, and a prevailing spirit of courtesy and propriety. There is joy in receiving gifts, gaining wealth, and advancing in status and position.

否　爭雞失羊，利得不長。陳蔡之患，賴楚以安。

The trigram Xun (Wind) combined with Po (Obstruction) indicates a situation where one might fight over a small gain, such as a chicken, and lose something greater, like a sheep. The small profit gained is not lasting. In the Spring and Autumn period, the states of Chen and Ci suffered frequent military conflicts, but were eventually stabilized through the intervention of Chu. This divination first warns against losing sight of the bigger picture for minor gains, and then shows an opportunity for rescue in times of danger: although there is current hardship, help from a strong ally can lead to safety. Those who seek divination should not be overly concerned with small matters, and when faced with difficulties, they should seek assistance from external forces, thus turning danger into safety.

同人　天旱水涸，枯槁無澤，未有所獲。

The trigram Xun (Wind) combined with the hexagram Tongren (Union) indicates a situation where the heavens have not rained for a long time, the river water has dried up, the grass and trees have withered, and there is no sign of moist air on the ground. The fields also yield nothing. This scene reflects the image of a drought demon causing harm, with the vitality cut off. It signifies a depletion of good fortune, a lack of financial resources, and no success in endeavors or business ventures. Those who divinate should retreat and wait for the rain, and should not force themselves to expand or take on new projects.

大有　陶朱白圭，善賈息貲。公子王孫，富利不貧。

The trigram Xun (Wind) combined with Da You (Great Abundance) indicates prosperity and growth. Tao Zhu Gong Fan Li and the Warring States merchant Bai Gui were both skilled in business, able to make their capital continuously generate profit and increase in value. Their descendants enjoyed substantial benefits, lived like nobles, and were never poor. Fan Li accumulated wealth three times, while Bai Gui practiced the principle of "when others discard, I take." The "Records of Merchants" in the "History of the Han Dynasty" records their deeds. This person manages business effectively and has abundant sources of wealth. It is favorable to engage in commerce and to buy property, indicating an excellent fortune for gaining wealth.

謙　龜厭江海，陸行不止。自令枯槁，失其都市。憂悔無咎。

The trigram Xun represents Wind, and the hexagram is named "Modesty." A turtle that has grown tired of the rivers and seas, instead of staying in the water, chooses to leave the water and crawl onto the land, unwilling to stop moving. In the end, it gets sunburned and dried up, losing its original habitat. This is a metaphor for departing from one's proper role and abandoning one's natural abilities. Fortunately, there is still a sense of worry and regret, so disaster will not occur. This forest owner acts against his nature and moves recklessly, bringing upon himself hardship. However, as long as he reflects and turns back in time, he can still avoid calamity.

豫　黃鳥採蓄，既嫁不答。念吾父兄，思復邦國。

The trigram Xun (Wind) combined with Yu (Joy) indicates a situation where a person is in a foreign land and feels unsettled. The Yellow Bird eating the vegetable called "Wucai" is mentioned in the Book of Songs, Chapter Xiao Ya, Yellow Bird, which uses this image to depict a woman who has been married far away and is not treated kindly by her husband's family. She longs for her father and brothers and wishes to return to her homeland. This situation reflects a person who is living away from home and feels uneasy, with a strong desire to return. Those who consult the divination should consider returning to their original place or occupation, as staying in an unfamiliar place may lead to委屈 (humiliation or委屈).

隨　田鼠野雛，意常欲逃。拘制籠檻，不得動搖。（夬之謙）

Wind follows. Mice in the fields and young birds in the wild always long to escape, yet they are confined within cages and fences, unable even to move. This situation symbolizes a trapped animal yearning to flee but controlled by humans, indicating that one's body is not under one's own control, and one's aspirations are at odds with one's circumstances. Matters concerning escape, change, or resignation are difficult to achieve at the moment. The person seeking divination should be patient and wait for the right time; rash actions only increase constraints. It also corresponds to the hexagram "Judgment" and "Humility."

蠱　平國不君，夏氏作亂。烏號竊發，靈公殞命。（既濟之噬嗑，臨之晉）

The trigram Xun (Wind) indicates the hexagram Gu (Guilt). The ruler of Chen State (whose capital was Wanqiu, anciently known as Ping State) failed to uphold the way of a sovereign and engaged in licentiousness with Xia Ji. Eventually, this led to the turmoil of the Xia family. Xia Zhengshu secretly drew a fine bow called Wuhao and shot and killed Chen Linggong. This event is recorded in the "Zuo Zhuan · Xuan Gong Ten Years." This divination suggests that the superior loses virtue, while the inferior incites rebellion, resulting in family strife and treachery within the palace. Those who consult this oracle should examine their own conduct carefully, especially guarding against betrayal by close attendants and trusted confidants.

臨　巨蛇大□，戰於國郊。上下閉塞，君遁走逃。（剝之艮）

The trigram Xun (Wind) is present. A large snake and a great beast are fighting in the outskirts of the capital, and an ominous omen has appeared. The roads above and below are blocked, and the king is forced to abandon his position and flee. Ancient people regarded a snake fighting in the outskirts as a sign that the country is about to face difficulties. This omen indicates strong enemies attacking, the failure of government orders, and the dispersion of the king and ministers, with people fleeing to avoid calamity. Those making the divination should retreat early and not stubbornly endure a dangerous situation.

觀　讒言亂國，覆是為非。伯奇流離，恭子憂哀。（豐之鼎）

The trigram Xun represents observation. The words of slanderers disrupt state affairs, turning right into wrong. The son of Yǐn Jífǔ, Bo Qi, was falsely accused by his stepmother and was exiled by his father, wandering in exile. Similarly, Prince Shen Sheng, the crown prince of Jin Xian Gong (posthumously known as "Gong"), also suffered from false accusations by Li Ji and became distressed and sorrowful, eventually committing suicide. This situation indicates a danger of slander and harm to the virtuous, with injustice difficult to clear. There is a凶 (dangerous situation) of father and son doubting each other and close relatives being abandoned. Those who cast the lot should beware of small people spreading rumors and causing disputes around them.

噬嗑　鬱怏不明，為陰所傷。眾霧集聚，共奪日光。

Wind trigram combined with the噬嗑 hexagram indicates inner depression and unhappiness, with a dull and unclear mind, caused by injury from yin evil qi. Dense fog gathers from all sides, obscuring the brightness of the sun. This situation symbolizes the dominance of group yin forces over yang, indicating the formation of small people's factions that obscure those in authority. The path of the virtuous is blocked, and the truth remains unexposed. Those who divinate should remain calm and preserve themselves, waiting for the fog to disperse and the sun to rise. They should not attempt actions in the darkness.

賁　望城抱子，見邑不殆。公孫上堂，大君歡喜。

The trigram Xun (Wind) combines with the trigram Bén (Brightness). From afar, one sees a city, and returns home抱着 a young child. Having already seen one's own city, the journey is no longer dangerous. The descendants of the noble family enter the hall to pay homage, and the king is pleased. This omen represents a long journey coming to an end and family reunion, indicating that dangers are about to be overcome and there will be good fortune in the family. It also signifies favorable outcomes for meeting a nobleman and returning home to resume one's duties. The person consulting the oracle may proceed with confidence.

剝　三蟲為蠱，劃跡無與。勝母盜泉，君子弗處。（姤之觀，觀之困）

The trigram Xun represents wind. When three venomous creatures gather in a vessel to eat each other, it becomes "gu," meaning a harmful influence. A boundary is drawn and one does not associate with it. A place called "Shengmu" was once avoided by Zengzi; a spring called "Daotuan" was not drunk from even by Confucius when thirsty, as recorded in the "Huainanzi · Shu Shan Xun." This forest signifies an environment of filth and corruption, where names do not match reality. The virtuous should maintain purity and keep away, avoiding association. Those who divinate should choose their place and companions carefully, preferring to avoid rather than be tainted.

復　車馳人趨，卷甲相求。齊魯寇戰，敗於犬丘。（復之小畜，明夷之兌）

The trigram Xun returns. War chariots race forward, soldiers hurry to fight, rolling up their armor and pursuing swiftly, each side seeking battle; the states of Qi and Lu raise armies to attack each other, ultimately suffering defeat in the battle at Qianqiu. This indicates that there is continuous conflict and mutual harm in matters of warfare and contention. All matters involving lawsuits, competition, and long journeys carry danger. Those who cast the divination should avoid initiating disputes, and especially when traveling, one must avoid dangerous places.

旡妄　欲訪子車，善相欺紿。桓叔相迎，不見所期。

The trigram Xun (Wind) signifies no false pretense. One wishes to visit the Zi Che family, but they are accustomed to using flattering words to deceive. They promised that Quwu Huanshu would come to meet them, but upon arrival, the person was not there. The host here has been deceived, the appointment has failed, and there is a problem of false speech in social interactions. Those who consult should verify the words of others when planning matters, and should not easily believe promises, especially when making long journeys without proof.

大畜　爭雉失羊，亡其金囊。利得不長，陳蔡之患。賴楚以安。（歸妹之損）

The trigram Xun (Wind) combined with the hexagram Da Xu (Great Accumulation) indicates a situation where one fights over a wild chicken and loses a sheep, and even the bag containing money is lost. The small gain obtained in this way cannot last long. Just as the states of Chen and Ci in the Spring and Autumn period suffered many military troubles and eventually relied on the help of the state of Chu to achieve peace and stability. This passage first warns against greed for small gains at the expense of greater losses, and then shows that danger may bring external assistance: although there may be losses and disturbances in the present, one can eventually turn things around with the help of outside forces. Those who divinate should abandon small gains in pursuit of greater benefits, and when faced with difficulties, they should seek strong support.

頤　歲莫花落，陽入陰室。萬物伏匿，利不可得。

Wind Trigram in the Hexagram of Nourishment. At the end of the year, flowers wither, yang energy retreats into the yin realm, and all things become concealed and hidden. At this time, seeking profit is unattainable. "Sui Mo" refers to the end of the year, meaning the time of winter when things are closed and stored away. This situation indicates that the season has not yet arrived and vitality is inwardly restrained. Therefore, endeavors in business, seeking wealth, or pursuing official positions are not timely. Those who divinate should cultivate their strength and wait quietly for spring. Rash actions will only lead to fruitless efforts.

大過　晨風文翰，大舉就溫。過我成邑，羿無所得。（大壯之震，小畜之革，大過之豫）

The trigram Xun indicates a great excess. In the morning wind, colorful white birds soar high and fly southward, passing over my city. Even the skilled archer Houyi could not catch them. This scene symbolizes the image of soaring high and leaving far behind, beyond human reach. It signifies that virtuous people will depart, good opportunities will be lost, and matters of capturing, pursuing, or retaining will all fail. The one who divines should follow nature's course; forcing matters will result in emptiness.

坎　持鵠抱子，見蛇何咎。室家俱在，不失其所。

Wind over Water. Holding a swan in the hand and a child in the arms, encountering a snake on the way, what misfortune will there be? Ancients regarded snakes as small monsters, but having a swan and a child in the embrace brings thick fortune, so evil cannot intrude. Though the subject may experience a minor alarm, there is no real harm, the family remains intact, each in their proper place. The diviner, even if alarmed unnecessarily, will ultimately not lose what is held, and may proceed with peace of mind.

離　隱隱大雷，□霈為雨。有女痴狂，驚駭鄰里。

Wind moves into Fire. A faint sound of heavy thunder is heard, followed by torrential rain pouring down; at this moment, a woman suddenly loses her mind, making a commotion that frightens the neighbors. Thunder and rain arrive suddenly while people's minds become disordered, indicating a disruption of yin and yang and chaos within and without. The person in question may have worries of illness disturbing the household and damage to their reputation. The one making the divination should pay attention to illnesses among women and children and disputes within the household.

咸　無足斷跟，居處不安，凶惡為患。（革之蹇）

Wind (Xun) in the Hexagram of Salt (Xian). The feet are gone, and the heel is broken, making it impossible to stand steadily. Therefore, the dwelling place naturally becomes unstable and unsettled, leading to continuous misfortunes. The feet are the foundation of movement; when injured, both advancing and retreating become impossible. This indicates that the foundation is damaged, movement is difficult, there is injury, and there is instability and recurring calamities. The person seeking divination should not travel far or make plans, but should first strengthen the foundation and heal the injury, remaining still to avoid harm.

恆　破筐敝筥，棄捐於道，不復為寶。

The trigram Xun (Wind) in the hexagram of constant change. A broken square basket and a damaged round basket are discarded by the roadside, no longer considered valuable. When objects become broken, they are abandoned by people, symbolizing unfulfilled talent and severed kindness. This indicates that the person in question is abandoned and no longer favored, and old things and old friends are unreliable. When seeking help or making plans, one is often ignored. The one who divines should cherish themselves and establish new foundations, not relying on past relationships.

遯　三雞啄粟，十雛從食。飢鳶卒擊，凶其兩叔。（中孚之頤作「八雛從食」）

Wind trigram signifies retreat. Three hens are pecking at millet, with ten chicks following along. Suddenly a hungry hawk swoops down, and two of the chicks are harmed. While enjoying peace and comfort, disaster strikes from above, a sudden misfortune beyond one's control. This omen suggests that the household is gathering to eat when a sudden calamity occurs, especially affecting siblings and younger relatives. Those who interpret this should remain vigilant even in times of ease, ensuring that family members are not left alone.

大壯　乘車七百，以明文德。踐土葵丘，齊晉受福。（兌之剝）

The trigram Xun (Wind) combines with Da Zhuang (Great Strength). This signifies leading a coalition of seven hundred chariots to convene with feudal lords, promoting the principles of ritual, music, and moral virtue. Jin Wen Gong held a meeting at Jianshu, and Qi Huan Gong held one at Kuiqiu; through these alliances, Qi and Jin received blessings. These two alliances are recorded in the "Zuo Zhuan" and "Shiji," representing the peak of the Spring and Autumn period's hegemonic achievements. This indicates a person named Lin Dají, who uses strength to complement virtue, gathers people together, and establishes fame. All endeavors involving alliances, associations, or cooperative efforts will succeed.

晉　百足俱行，相輔為強。三聖翼事，王室寵光。（屯之履，晉之坤，遯之復，井之履）

The trigram Xun (Wind) is associated with the hexagram Jin (Progress). Just as a centipede with many legs moves in unison, supporting each other to become strong, so too three virtuous ministers assist the king in his affairs, bringing glory and prosperity to the royal house. These three sages refer to important ministers such as the Duke of Zhou, Zhao Gong, and Tai Gong. This forest symbolizes unity and collaboration among virtuous men, with the cause flourishing through the support of many. Those who divinate should seek partnership and avoid acting alone.