Zhen's Forest (the 64th hexagram Zhen)

恆　范公陶朱，巧賈貨資。東之營丘，易字子皮。抱珠載金，多得利歸。

The trigram Dui (Lake) combined with the trigram Heng (Permanence) indicates a situation of enduring prosperity. Fan Li achieved great success in business and then withdrew from public life, known as Tao Zhu Gong. He was skilled in trade and accumulating goods. He moved east to Qi's territory at Yingqiu, changed his name, and called himself Chi Yi Zi Pi. He carried precious jewels and was loaded with gold, returning with substantial profits. This is recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: Biographies of Merchants" in the "Shiji." This divination suggests that Lin Dagji has a strong affinity for wealth, indicating a talent for commerce leading to prosperity, and a tendency to conceal his identity and move to a distant place to gain profit. Those who consult this should engage in business with a low profile and seek wealth from different locations.

遯　三羖五牂，相隨俱行。迷入空澤，經涉虎廬。循谷直北，經涉六駁。為所傷賊，死於牙腹。

The trigram Dui (Lake) indicates retreat. Three male goats and five female goats travel together, become lost and enter an open marsh, then pass by a tiger's den. They continue along the valley heading north and encounter a legendary fierce beast with six spots that feeds on tigers and leopards. They are finally bitten and killed, their bodies devoured by the beast's teeth and stomach. This is a great凶 (dangerous omen), indicating that those who travel in groups may mistakenly enter dangerous terrain. Those who cast this divination should beware of blindly following others on a journey, especially heading north or entering the mountains.

大壯　雄鵠延頸，欲飛入關。雨師灑道，□我袍裘。車重難前，侍者稽首。

The trigram Dui (Lake) combines with the trigram Dazhuang (Great Strength). A male swan stretches its neck, wanting to spread its wings and fly into the area of Guanzhong; the rain god comes ahead to clear the path, but the rain has soaked my robe and fur coat. The carriage is overloaded and cannot move forward, so the attendants have to kneel and beg for mercy. This indicates that the owner of the forest has lofty aspirations but is burdened with heavy luggage, and progress is obstructed. The diviner should reduce the load and travel lightly in order to move forward; if the burden is too great, even a single step will be difficult.

晉　中年蒙慶，今歲受福，必有所得。

The trigram Dui (Lake) combines with Jin (Advance). In middle age, one will experience good fortune, and this year will bring blessings and assured gains. This omen indicates a favorable turn of events that will take effect in the current year, bringing clarity and joy. The person seeking fortune need not wait long; tangible benefits will be received within the year. It is advisable to be proactive and seize the present opportunity.

明夷　祿如周公，建國洛東，父子俱封。（革之明夷）

The trigram Dui (Lake) in the hexagram Mingyi (Lightning in the Earth) indicates abundant official salary, comparable to the Duke of Zhou. In the eastern part of Luoyi, a fiefdom was established, and both father and son were enfeoffed as feudal lords. The Duke of Zhou was granted the state of Lu, and his son Boqin went to govern it, as recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: The Grand Duke of Zhou's Family in Lu." Although this forest is named Mingyi, it actually signifies great fame and substantial benefits, which will extend to future generations. Those who consult this should expect an increase in official salary and a lasting blessing for their descendants. They should strive diligently to achieve success.

家人　安床厚褥，不得久宿。棄我嘉燕，困於東國。投杼之憂，不成禍災。（家人之睽，艮之篩）

The trigram Dui (Lake) combined with the trigram Jia (Family) indicates a situation where a bed is prepared comfortably with thick cushions, yet it is not used for long; one abandons pleasant feasts and finds oneself in hardship in a distant eastern land. Although there is a fear akin to that of a mother being frightened by false accusations, no real calamity ensues. This person is unsettled in their dwelling, traveling abroad and facing slander, but it is merely a false alarm. The one interpreting the oracle should remain calm and steadfast, and there will be no harm.

睽　蓄積有餘，糞土不居，利有所得。

The trigram Dui (Lake) is combined with Kui (Strife). There is considerable accumulation and surplus, and even dung is not left unused; everything is put to good use, thus bringing profit. This indicates that the household is thrifty and diligent in earning, making full use of all resources, so even in times of discord, the family's finances are not lacking. The person seeking the divination should be careful with expenses, make use of waste, and manage affairs meticulously. Profits will naturally come to hand through careful attention to detail.

蹇　心願所喜，乃今逢時。我得利福，不離兵革。（既濟之復）

The trigram Dui (Lake) is combined with the trigram Jian (Obstruction). The things one desires and loves are now encountering a favorable time; I have gained benefits and good fortune, but I have not yet been free from military conflicts. This divination indicates that one's wishes are fulfilled but the situation remains unsettled, with fortune accompanied by danger. Although the seeker's request is fulfilled, they must still manage affairs amidst disputes. It is advisable to think of potential dangers even in times of peace and not to relax vigilance due to success.

解　目不可合，憂來搔足。怵惕危懼，去其邦族。（萃之睽、明夷）

The trigram Dui (Lake) signifies resolution. The eyes cannot close, and when sorrow comes, one can only scratch one's feet; the heart is filled with caution and unease, and finally one leaves one's homeland and clan. This is the situation of a person tormented by deep sorrow and unable to sleep, experiencing both danger and fear, leading to exile. If one is divining, there is a difficult worry before them, or they may have to leave their homeland. They should plan to move away early, and not be attached to their current place, lest they find themselves in a difficult position.

損　福德之士，歡悅日喜。夷吾相桓，三歸為臣。賞流子孫。

The trigram Dui indicates loss. Those with virtue and blessings experience daily joy and contentment. Guan Yiwu assisted Qi Huan Gong in establishing a hegemonic rule, achieving the highest position among ministers and enjoying the privilege of three returning halls. His rewards extended even to his descendants. This is recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: Biography of Guan and Yan." This forest signifies a person of great virtue and high status, receiving abundant honor and favor. Those who consult this divination may expect to meet a wise ruler, receive substantial rewards, and have their blessings extend to future generations.

益　憂姬附耳，心聽悅喜，利後搏取。

The trigram Dui (Lake) indicates benefit. Originally worried, the concubine whispers in the ear, and the worry turns into joy within, thus allowing one to pursue benefits afterwards. This situation represents a shift from sorrow to joy, with internal support leading to opportunity. The person seeking divination was initially troubled, but after a word of advice from another, they suddenly understand and then achieve success through effort.

夬　叔迎兄弟，遇巷在陽。君子季姬，並坐鼓簧。（咸之震）

The trigram Dui (Lake) combines with the hexagram Guai (Breaking). The uncle goes out to meet siblings, meeting them at the sunny entrance of the alley. The gentleman sits beside the younger lady, playing the sheng and xiao together. The Book of Songs often uses the term "gushang" to describe the joyous entertainment between host and guest. This indicates that the owner of the forest has family members gathering, with host and guest enjoying themselves, signifying a fortunate gathering, harmonious joy, and a happy marriage. Those who divinate should maintain frequent contact with relatives and friends, as happy events are expected.

姤　徙巢去家，南遇白鳥。東西受福，與喜相得。

The trigram Dui meets the trigram Gou. One moves away from their nest, leaves the old dwelling, and travels south, encountering white birds. Whether going east or west, one receives blessings and meets joy everywhere. This omen indicates favorable movement and fortunate encounters. Those who move, change their occupation, or travel far should find it auspicious. Action is better than stillness, and wherever one goes, a nobleman will come to assist.

萃　舜登大禹，石夷之野。徵詣王庭，拜治水土。（乾之中孚，師之小畜）

The trigram Dui (Lake) combined with Cui (Gathering) signifies a situation where a wise ruler recognizes talent and entrusts capable individuals with important tasks. In the "Book of Documents: Shun's Classic," it is recorded that Shun appointed Yu to "level the land and manage water," and Yu eventually achieved great success in this endeavor. This forest symbolizes a wise ruler who discerns talent and bestows responsibility upon the virtuous. If the person seeking divination possesses genuine ability, they may expect to be promoted and employed by those in higher positions. This is a favorable omen for seeking official positions or employment.

升　江河淮海，天之都市。商人受福，國家富有。

The Trigram Dui indicates rising. The Yangtze River, the Yellow River, the Huai River, and the sea are the great cities and markets set up by Heaven; merchants traveling by water are blessed, and the country becomes prosperous and abundant. This forest signifies smooth water transport and thriving commerce. Those who interpret the divination should take advantage of the benefits of boats and merchants, for all trade journeys are auspicious. This is an excellent omen for seeking wealth.

困　隱隱煩煩，火燒山根。下潤我鄰，獨不蒙恩。（賁之蹇）

The Trigram Dui indicates a state of being trapped. There is a vague and confused situation, with fire reaching the foot of the mountain; rain and dew only nourish my neighbors, but I alone do not receive their blessings. This suggests that the person in question is suffering misfortune close to themselves while others receive the benefits. There is a lamentation of favoring others over oneself and being alone in hardship. The one seeking divination is currently facing unequal distribution of benefits and difficulty in receiving help. They should seek their own solutions and not rely on others for assistance.

井　闇昧不明，耳聾不聰。陷入深淵，滅頂憂凶。（巽之小畜）

The Trigram Dui (Lake) and the well. The vision is dim and unclear, the ears are dull and the sounds are indistinct; one takes a wrong step and falls into a deep abyss, the water rises to the head, and misfortune turns into calamity. This line indicates that the person is blinded and deaf, leading to missteps into danger, similar to the line in the Trigram Xun (Wind) and the hexagram Xiao Xu (Small Accumulation). Those who divinate should first seek clarity and be cautious in all matters involving water, danger, or depth, avoiding them altogether to prevent great calamity.

革　鳥鳴喈喈，天火將下。燔我館舍，災及妃后。（中孚）

The trigram Dui (Lake) changes to the trigram Ge (Revolution). A flock of birds is crying out loudly and continuously, indicating that heavenly fire is about to descend; it has burned down my pavilion, and the disaster has also affected the concubines. The noisy birds are a premonition of fire, and ancient people regarded this as an ominous sign. This situation is extremely dangerous for fire, leading to the destruction of the house and the involvement of the women within. Those who consult this should be especially cautious with fire and candles. The female members of the household should be particularly careful. In case of an alarm, they should flee as quickly as possible.

鼎　十雉百雛，常與母俱。抱虎搏雞，誰敢難者。

The Trigram Dui (Lake) in the Hexagram Ding (Tripod). Ten female pheasants with hundreds of young ones often accompany their mothers without separation; with their protection, it is like holding a tiger to fight a chicken, who would dare to bother. This forest is ruled by a group with strong support and great power, so all matters have strong allies to protect them. The person consulting the oracle has strong backing, and no one dares to hinder their actions. It is advisable to take advantage of this favorable situation.

震　營城洛邑，周公所作。世建三十，年曆八百。福佑盤結，堅固不落。（井之升）

The trigram Dui (Lake) interacting with Zhen (Thunder) signifies the construction of the city of Luoyi, an achievement attributed to the Duke of Zhou. Following this, the Zhou dynasty lasted for thirty generations and eight hundred years. Blessings are deeply rooted and firmly established, solid and unshakable. This is recorded in the Book of Documents, the "Lo Guo" section. This omen indicates a strong and enduring foundation, with the family lineage extending over a long period. Those who make predictions find their fundamental basis extremely secure, and they can look forward to long-term benefits. It is advisable to plan for enduring strategies.

艮　三人俱行，別離將食。一身五心，反覆迷惑。

The trigram Dui (Lake) combines with Gen (Mountain). Three people set out together, but when it comes to eating, they part ways. One person has five different thoughts, constantly changing and uncertain. This divination indicates that companions are not united, and the person himself is doubtful. When planning matters, the outcome is scattered because of indecisiveness. The one seeking divination should first decide his own intentions, then proceed with others. Otherwise, people will be scattered and nothing will be accomplished in the end.

漸　三虎搏狼，力不相當。如鷹格雉，一擊破亡。

The trigram Dui (Lake) signifies gradual progress. Three tigers surrounding and attacking a single wolf, with a clear disparity in strength; it is like an eagle swooping down to strike a wild pheasant, instantly defeating it. In this situation, the dominant force is clearly evident, and the outcome is immediately decided. If the person consulting the divination is in the position of the strong, a swift victory is expected. However, if they are in the weaker position, they should avoid direct confrontation and not attempt to challenge the stronger force head-on.

歸妹　養虎畜狼，還自賊傷。年歲息長，疾君拜禱。雖危不凶。

The trigram Dui (Lake) combined with Gui (Marriage) indicates that keeping a tiger in captivity and retaining wolves will eventually lead to being bitten by them. Although one's age increases, the ruler still suffers from illness and must perform sacrifices and prayers. Fortunately, although in a dangerous situation, it does not result in a major calamity. This situation is like a forest owner who has a sick animal that injures itself but can still be treated. The person making the divination has allowed certain matters to develop into hidden dangers; it is advisable to suppress them early. Even if there is danger, sincere efforts to remedy the situation can still lead to safety.

豐　後時失利，不得所欲。

The trigram Dui (Lake) combined with Feng (Abundance) indicates that the opportunity has passed, resulting in the loss of benefits and the failure to obtain what is desired. The person in question hesitates and makes mistakes, missing the right moment. Although there is the name of abundance, there is no real abundance. Those who divinate should act decisively at the right time to gain benefits. If they merely wait and hesitate, the advantages will be taken by others first.

旅　雉兔之東，以野為場。見鷹奔走，死於谷口。

The Trigram Dui represents a journey. Wild pheasants and rabbits are active in the east, using the open fields as their hunting ground. Upon seeing hawks and falcons, they panic and flee, ultimately dying at the mouth of the valley. This situation symbolizes a person without support who is captured by a strong enemy, and those traveling away from home are especially in danger. Those who go out should choose safe places and avoid staying long in open areas without support. When danger arises, they should retreat quickly.

巽　秋蛇見穴，不失其節。夫人姜氏，自齊復入。

Dui combined with Xun. In autumn, the snake returns to its hole on time, not violating the season of hibernation; just as recorded in the Spring and Autumn Annals, Lady Jiang returned from the State of Qi back to Lu. This forest owner returns on time and goes away and comes back again. The person who went away has an opportunity to return, the traveler may expect to come back, and lost things and old businesses also have hope of being regained.

渙　鳥鳴巢端，一呼三顛。搖動東西，危嵬不安。

The trigram Dui (Lake) is combined with Huan (Dispersal). A bird calls from the top of its nest, and with each call the nest sways three times. It sways east and west, high and perilous, completely unstable. This indicates that the person's dwelling is not secure, and the foundation is shaking, like a nest on a dangerous branch. A slight breeze could cause it to collapse. The one consulting should quickly move to a stable place and should not remain in a high and dangerous position for long.

節　命夭不遂，死多為祟。妻子啼喑，早失其雄。

The trigram Dui signifies a period of calamity. Life is short, aspirations remain unfulfilled, and the lingering resentment of the deceased often leads to disturbances. The wife and children weep bitterly, and the family loses its head early. This is a great凶 (misfortune), leading to夭折 (premature death) and the loss of the family's mainstay. Those who consult this should take extra care of their health, avoid dangers, and seek good doctors promptly if ill, without delay.

中孚　茆屋結席，祟我文德。三辰□旗，家受其福。

In the trigram Dui (Lake), there is the hexagram Zhongfu (Faithful Center). It symbolizes a thatched roof and woven mats, though simple in appearance, which fully embody my literary virtue. The banner is adorned with the images of the sun, moon, and stars, as mentioned in the Zuo Zhuan, "A banner with the images of the sun, moon, and stars shows its brightness." Therefore, the family receives blessings. This forest represents a person who dwells in simplicity but possesses clear aspirations, and who gains blessings through literary virtue. The one making the divination should be content with poverty, cultivate oneself, and his reputation will naturally become prominent.

小過　羅網一張，鳥無一翔。征伐困極，飢窮不食。

The trigram Dui (Lake) indicates a minor excess. A net is spread wide, and no bird can escape; military campaigns lead to extremepredicament, hunger and poverty, with no food to eat. The forest owner is trapped in a net, with no way to advance or retreat. All matters concerning travel, warfare, and planning are surrounded and blocked. The one divining should refrain from action and first resolve the immediate needs of clothing and food. Any hasty movement will only lead to falling into the net again.

既濟　天成地安，積石為山。潤給萬里，人賴其歡。

The Trigram Dui has reached completion. Heaven has transformed and nurtured, and the earth is stable and unmoving, accumulating many stones to form high mountains. The waters and marshes nourish and provide for distant lands, with people relying on them and rejoicing. This is a great auspicious sign, indicating the accomplishment of great achievements and widespread benevolence. It symbolizes the gradual cultivation of a great talent. Those who are divining should find that their accumulated efforts have now reached the time of harvest, and they should widely bestow benefits to strengthen the hearts of the people.

未濟　銅人鐵柱，暴露勞苦。終月卒歲，無有休止。

The trigram Dui (Lake) in the hexagram of Not Yet Completed. Copper cast figures and iron pillars stand exposed to wind and sun, laboring day after day without rest. Throughout the entire month and year, they have no moment of respite. This indicates a situation where labor is endless and one's body is not under one's own control. Though one is resilient, rest is not obtained. The person consulting the divination is burdened with heavy responsibilities that are difficult to bear. It is advisable to assess one's strength and share the burden, and one should not use one's flesh and blood as if they were copper and iron.

渙　望幸不到，文章未就。三子逐兔，犬踦不得。（未濟之兌，謙之既濟）

The hexagram is "Dispersing." The master of the forest longs for the king's visit but he does not come; the splendid writings remain unfinished. Three people chase a wild rabbit, but the hunting dog has a lame leg and they fail to catch it. This indicates that the master's hopes are unfulfilled, his talents are not fully utilized, and all endeavors seeking fame, petitioning, or competing result in failure. The one divining should first cultivate within, mend his deficiencies, and not rush to seek immediate success.

乾　焱風阻越，車馳竭竭。棄名追亡，失其和節。憂心惙惙。（需之小過）

The divination indicates a situation akin to the trigram Qian (Heaven). A strong wind obstructs the way, making it difficult to cross; the chariots and horses run with exhausted effort and loud cries. One abandons proper rank and pursuits after a fugitive, thus losing composure and order, and the mind becomes filled with sorrow. "Worrying day and night" comes from the Book of Songs, Zhao Nan, Cao Chong. This suggests that the person involved is laboring hard but failing to achieve their wishes. The interpreter acts too hastily, losing balance and propriety. It is advisable to proceed with caution and restraint, maintaining one's proper position.

坤　蛇得澤草，不憂危殆。

The hexagram is Huan (Dispersing) and the line is Kun (Earth). A snake finds lush grass by the marsh, finds a suitable place to hide, and thus has no fear of danger. This forest indicates that the subject has found a proper position, with clear movements forward and backward. Even a weak body can remain safe and secure. The one seeking fortune should find a suitable position for themselves. Even if they are weak in strength, they will not meet with danger. This is a peaceful and auspicious situation of maintaining one's proper position.

屯　兩犬爭鬥，股瘡無處。不成仇讎，行解卻去。

The hexagram Hun (Dispersing) follows Zhun (Obstruction). Two dogs are fighting and biting each other, with neither having any intact flesh left on their legs. However, they do not become real enemies, and after a brief struggle, they part ways on their own. The owner of this forest has a temporary dispute but does not end up harboring resentment. Although there is some physical harm, it can be resolved afterwards. The person consulting the oracle does not need to worry about the current verbal conflict. If they step back a little, the matter will naturally dissipate.

蒙　因禍受福，喜盈其室，求事皆得。

The hexagram "Huan" (Dispersing) combined with "Meng" (Youth) indicates that a misfortune may lead to blessings, bringing joy and fulfillment in the household. All desired things will be realized. This is a favorable omen of hidden blessings within misfortune, achieving success through failure, and transforming danger into safety. The current difficulties faced by the seeker are actually turning points. There is no need to be discouraged; by following the right course, all things can be accomplished.

需　江有寶珠，海多大魚。亟行疾去，可以得財。（節之中孚）

The divination indicates movement and acquisition. There is treasure hidden in the river and large fish in the sea; one should hurry to go and can obtain wealth. This omen suggests that wealth is located far away and its value lies in quick action. It is a divination that favors movement and immediate gain. The person seeking fortune should not wait idly but act decisively to seek opportunities outside. Delaying will result in the treasure being claimed by others.

訟　三年生狗，以戌為母。荊夷上侵，伯姬出走。（坤之震，否之姤，需之訟，賁之復）

The divination indicates a situation of turmoil and conflict. A dog that has been raised for three years takes the Earthly Branch 'Xu' as its mother. Southern barbarians invade from the north, forcing Lady Bo Ji to flee. This omen suggests internal disorder and external threats, with nobles displaced and facing military danger, leading to forced migration. Those who divinate should avoid disputes and be especially cautious of disturbances coming from the south.

師　安息康居，異國窮廬。非吾習俗，使伯憂惑。

The divination indicates a journey. Anxi and Kangju are distant western countries, located in remote and barren lands where people live in felt tents. The customs and manners there are not in harmony with my own, causing worry and confusion. These two countries are mentioned in the "Book of Han, Western Regions Annals." This forest indicates someone going far away to a foreign land, feeling out of place and unable to adapt. The person divining should be traveling to a distant place or being transferred to an unfamiliar area, and it will be difficult to adjust at first. It is advisable to make thorough preparations and not to stay there rashly for a long time.

比　行觸天網，馬死車傷。身無聊賴，困窮乏糧。

The divination indicates a dangerous situation for travel. As soon as one begins the journey, they will encounter a trap set by heaven and earth, with horses dying and vehicles breaking down. Alone and without support, they will face hardship and poverty, even running out of food. This is a great凶 (dangerous) omen for travel. Any active movement will bring misfortune, and one will be unable to advance or retreat properly. The person consulting should remain still and refrain from any travel, relocation, or new ventures, and instead remain quiet to avoid dire consequences.

小畜　裸裎逐狐，為人觀笑。牝雞司晨，主母亂門。（大有之咸）

The divination indicates a situation where the person is in disorder, with improper conduct and inverted yin and yang. He is naked and chasing a fox, drawing public mockery. A hen is crowing instead of a rooster, and the female householder is disrupting the household affairs. The Book of Shangshu, "Mu Shi," warns that "a hen crowing at dawn brings ruin to the family." This suggests that the person's actions are improper, leading to internal disorder and external ridicule. The diviner should correct the roles and uphold proper conduct to stop the mockery.

履　為季求婦，家在東海。水長無船，不見所歡。（屯之蹇）

The hexagram of Huan followed by Lu. The young son is seeking to marry, but the bride's family is far away on the eastern coast. The water route is long and there is no boat to cross, so he will never meet his beloved. This indicates that the master of the forest is separated by distance and good fortune is obstructed. All matters concerning marriage proposals, seeking help, and distant alliances are blocked by water and land. The diviner should choose nearby rather than distant, and give up distant for near, otherwise there will be wasted effort and fruitless journeys.

泰　男女合室，二姓同食。婚姻孔云，宜我多孫。

The hexagram Hun is connected to Tai. A man and a woman unite as one family, with two surnames sitting together and sharing meals. The matter of marriage is discussed with great harmony, which is very suitable for our family to add more children. "Kong Yun" means very harmonious. This indicates that Lin Dají's marriage will be harmonious and prosperous. Those who consult this divination should find it favorable for forming relationships and establishing a family, and they will also experience the joy of adding a new member to the household.

否　天門帝室，黃帝所直。藩屏周衛，不可得入。常安長在，終無禍患。

The trigram Huan indicates a situation of obstruction. The heavenly gate and the palace of the Supreme Deity are guarded by the Yellow Emperor himself, with strong fortifications on all sides, preventing outsiders from entering. Thus, it remains permanently secure and free from calamity. This situation represents a place of strict defense and internal stability. If one seeks advancement, the path is difficult to access; if one seeks self-preservation, there is no risk at all. It is advisable to adopt a defensive posture rather than attempt a strong attack.

同人　□金觀市，欲置騮子。猾□竊發，盜我黃寶。

The hexagram Hun (Dispersal) is similar to Tongren (Union). One brings money to the market to look for a red body and black mane horse. Unexpectedly, a cunning person secretly takes the gold and treasures. The owner of the forest suffers loss in trade. When a fortune teller goes out to purchase large quantities of goods, he should beware of theft and switching. Money should not be exposed, and one should be cautious of dishonest people nearby.

大有　三思俱行，欲歸故鄉。望邑入門，拜見家親。

The hexagram Hun (Dispersal) combined with Da You (Great Possession) indicates that after careful consideration, both parties set out together. They are eager to return to their hometown. From afar, they see the city, enter their home, and pay respects to their family elders. This suggests that the subject of the divination is on a smooth journey back home, reuniting with family, which is a favorable omen for a traveler returning to his homeland. The person the diviner is hoping for is expected to return. Matters concerning returning home, resuming duties, or revisiting old places will all be successful.

謙　娶於姜女，駕迎新婦。少妻在門，夫子悅喜。

The hexagram "Huan" (Dispersing) and "Qian" (Approaching). He married a woman of the Jiang surname, and drove his carriage to meet his new bride. The young wife had already arrived at the gate, and the husband was filled with joy. The Jiang family of the state of Qi was known for many beautiful women, and the "Book of Songs" often refers to them as "Qi Jiang." This indicates that Lin Dají's marriage is favorable, leading to a harmonious match and joy in the household. Those who consult about marriage will find it successful, and any occasion of welcoming and receiving will be satisfactory.

豫　伯仲旅行，南求大牂。孟長痛足，倩季負囊。柳下之貞，不失我邦。

The hexagram Hun is combined with Yu. Several brothers set out on a journey to the south in search of fat ewes. The eldest brother has a foot injury and is unable to walk, so he asks his younger brother to carry his belongings. By upholding the integrity of Zhonghui, he ultimately does not lose his state. This forest's master relies on his brothers for support and maintains his proper conduct, so although there may be minor setbacks, the fundamental aspect remains unharmed. The person divining should rely on his siblings, uphold righteousness, and thus ensure safety.

隨　潔身白齒，衰老復起。多孫眾子，宜利姑舅。

The hexagram of Huan followed by Suí indicates that one should cultivate personal purity and maintain a youthful appearance; even an elderly person can regain vitality. There will be many descendants, and the grandparents and parents-in-law will all receive care and benefit. This suggests that the family head is becoming stronger with age, the family lineage is flourishing, and there is a fortunate reversal of aging and a thriving lineage. The person consulting the oracle may expect recovery of health, and the elderly in the family will also receive proper care, indicating a favorable omen of longevity and the addition of offspring.

蠱　獨宿深夜，嫫母畏晝。平王逐建，荊子憂懼。

The hexagram Hun (Dispersing) transforms into Gu (Restlessness). In the deep of night, one lies alone in peace, but the ugly嫫mother fears the daylight; King Ping of Chu listened to slander and expelled his son, Prince Jian, causing the princes of Chu to feel anxious and uneasy. This is recorded in the "Zuo Zhuan · Zhao Gong Nineteenth Year." The person consulting the oracle feels ashamed of their appearance and has doubts among family members, fearing separation from their father and being caught in suspicion. The one interpreting the oracle should avoid involvement in disputes and refrain from entangling themselves in the family affairs of others.

臨　追亡逐北，呼還幼叔。至山而得，復歸其室。（未濟之大過，需之渙）

The hexagram Hun (Dispersal) is followed by Lin (Approach). It describes the pursuit of a fleeing person or defeated troops, calling out along the way to bring back a young younger brother. After reaching the mountains, they finally find him and return home together. This indicates a situation where something lost is regained and a separation is resolved. Those who have lost a person or object may expect to recover them. Matters concerning pursuit and retrieval can succeed. This is a divination of initial worry followed by joy.

觀　鳥飛無翼，兔走折足。雖欲會同，未見其功。

The divination indicates a situation where things are scattered and not yet unified. A bird wants to fly but has no wings, and a rabbit wants to run but has broken legs. Even though one desires to gather and cooperate, there is no visible result. This suggests that the conditions are not yet complete, and there is more intention than ability. Any gathering, partnership, or joint endeavor will find it difficult to succeed. The person seeking divination should first ensure they have sufficient resources and capability; otherwise, they will only have empty aspirations and achieve nothing.

噬嗑　抱空握虛，鴞驚我雛，利出不成。（一作「來」。離之家人）

The hexagram Hun is combined with Shihe. What is held in the arms is empty, and what is grasped in the hands is hollow, with no actual substance; a foul bird, the Ci Xiao, comes to scare the young birds, and the desire for gain ultimately fails. This forest has nothing to gain and instead suffers disturbance. The person divining this is seeking something that will not come to pass, and must also be cautious of external dangers that may threaten the family. It is advisable to guard the home and protect the young, and not to have improper ambitions.

賁　山作大池，陸地為海，各得其所。

The hexagram Huan transforms into Bi. A high mountain turns into a great pond, and land becomes ocean; it seems as if heaven and earth are overturned, but in reality, water and land each settle in their proper places. This indicates that although the overall situation may undergo a major change, all things will find their appropriate positions, showing a transformation leading to correctness. The situation faced by the person seeking divination will undergo significant change, but there is no need to be alarmed; after the change, a more suitable position will be found.

剝　為虎所齧，太山之陽。眾多從者，莫敢救藏。

The divination indicates a situation of dispersion and decline. A person is bitten by a tiger in the southern foot of Mount Tai; although many people are accompanying him, none dare to come forward to rescue him or hide him. This is a very dangerous forest, indicating that one will be harmed by violence and face betrayal and lack of support. Those who consult should avoid dangerous places and ruthless people. In times of hardship, one should not rely on the help of the crowd, and should prepare for self-protection in advance.

復　逶迤四牡，思歸念母。王事靡盬，不得安處。（旅之漸）

The hexagram is "Huan" followed by "Fu." Four strong horses draw a carriage, moving steadily along the road, thinking of returning home and missing his mother. Unfortunately, the official duties of the Wang family have no end, and he cannot find a place to settle down. These four lines are from the "Small Odes" of the "Book of Songs," describing a messenger burdened by royal affairs. This person is occupied with official duties and cannot return home, while the diviner, although longing to return, has responsibilities to shoulder. It is advisable to first settle official matters, and the time to return will come naturally.

旡妄　獮猴所言，語無成全。誤我白馬，使口不至。（一作「使乾口來」）

The hexagram "Huan" indicates no false action. The words spoken by a monkey are not reliable at all; they have delayed my white horse, causing the expected message to never arrive. The owner of this forest has been misled by a frivolous person, leading to the interruption of messages. The person entrusted with the task is not trustworthy, making communication and agreements difficult to fulfill. Whenever sending someone to deliver messages or handle affairs, one should choose a steady and reliable person, and not trust those who are merely eloquent.

大畜　飛不遠去，卑廝內侍，祿養未富。（豐之渙）

The hexagram of Huan indicates a great accumulation. Although capable of flying, it does not fly far, only performing lowly and miscellaneous tasks, serving as a close attendant in the palace. The salary is not abundant. This person has a limited pattern and cannot fully display their talent. Although close to the nobleman, the gains are meager. The person seeking the divination is currently in a low position with a thin salary. They should remain steadfast in their current position, accumulate strength, and not expect great advancement at this time.

頤　大尾細腰，重不可搖。陰權制國，平子逐昭。

The hexagram "Huan Zhi Yi" indicates a situation where the tail is too large while the body is weak and slender, making it difficult to move due to the weight of the tail. This is the image of a large tail that cannot be controlled. The authority has fallen into the hands of private individuals who manipulate state affairs, as seen in the case of Ji Pingzi expelling Duke Lu Zhao Gong. This is recorded in the "Zuo Zhuan · Zhao Gong Twenty-Fifth Year." The situation reflects a ruler who is weak and a minister who is strong, with the main part being small and the branches large. Those who interpret the divination should be cautious of subordinates gaining too much power and the authority slipping into the hands of others. It is advisable to take action early to prevent this.