Zhen's Forest (the 64th hexagram Zhen)

大過　旦生夕死，名曰嬰兒，不可得視。（小畜之升，未濟之乾，震之坤。「視」一作「祀」）

The hexagram Hun is combined with Da Guo. A child born in the morning dies by evening, able only to be called an infant, not even able to be looked at properly. This forest is extremely凶 (dangerous). It signifies short-lived vitality, things that are formed only to be destroyed again. All new endeavors and newly born things find it difficult to endure. The affairs the diviner is planning have too weak a foundation; one must not act hastily. Particular care should be taken for the safety of the young.

坎　子畏於匡，困於陳蔡。明德不危，竟免厄害。（兌之泰，大過之晉，坤之鼎）

The hexagram Hun (Dispersal) is associated with Kan (Water). Confucius was once besieged in the area of Kuang and suffered a shock, and later faced starvation between Chen and Cai. However, his virtue was bright and clear, so he never reached a state of peril, and eventually escaped from disaster. This is recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: The Family of Confucius." This line indicates that the person is in a dangerous situation but can preserve himself through virtue. Even if the diviner is in a situation of difficulty, as long as he holds to the right path, he will ultimately be safe and escape unharmed.

離　畏昏潛處，候時昭朗。卒逢白日，為世榮主。

The hexagram is "Huan" (Dispersing) and the line is "Li" (Fire). Being afraid of darkness, it hides quietly, waiting for the time when daylight comes; finally encountering bright daylight, it becomes the honored master of the world. This forest represents someone who first conceals himself and waits for the right time to achieve success, which is a fortunate situation of first being hidden and then emerging. Those who are divining should now be modest and restrained, and when brightness arrives, they will naturally rise to prominence. Do not act recklessly in the darkness.

咸　白鳥御餌，鳴呼其子。旋枝張趐，來從其母。（晉之震）

The hexagram of Huan is combined with Xian. A white bird carries food in its beak, calling out to its young; the young birds circle around the branches, spreading their wings and flying to follow their mother. This scene indicates a mother and child who are close and responsive to each other, showing a harmonious reunion and mutual care, which is a favorable omen. The person consulting the oracle will find harmony in their home, with elders and younger generations getting along well. Matters concerning summoning, recruitment, or searching for relatives will all receive a response.

恆　宮商角徵，五音和氣。君臣父子，弟順有序。唐虞襲德，國無災咎。

The hexagram of Huan leads to that of Heng. The five tones,宫, 商, 角, 徵, 羽, harmonize with each other, producing a harmonious atmosphere. Rulers and subjects, fathers and sons each occupy their proper positions, siblings are respectful and orderly. Tang Yao and Yu Shun inherited each other's virtue, so there were no calamities or mistakes in the country. This is a favorable omen, indicating harmony between superiors and inferiors, and order in the principles of governance. Those who consult this should find themselves in a stable and orderly situation, and should maintain the existing state, avoiding change.

遯　季姬踟躕，望子城隅。終日至暮，不見齊侯。（豫之巽）

The hexagram Hun (Dispersal) follows Dùn (Retreat). A young lady named Ji Ji hesitates and wavers, looking from the corner tower of the city for the person she longs to see. This is akin to the lines in the Book of Songs, "Wait for me at the city corner, love me but keep me hidden." She waits from morning until dusk, yet finally does not see the Prince of Qi. This situation reflects the situation of the person being consulted, who has waited in vain for someone who did not come, making a good meeting turn into emptiness. Those who have made appointments are mostly untrustworthy, so it is advisable to make other arrangements and not to remain in empty expectation.

大壯　鬼哭於社，悲傷無後。甲子昧爽，殷人絕祀。（大過之坤）

The hexagram Hun (Dispersal) transforms into Da Zhuang (Great Strength). Ghosts weep in the ancestral temple, grieving the loss of their descendants. On the Jiazi day, the Heavenly General rises at dawn, and at Muye, the Shang dynasty's ancestral worship comes to an end. This is recorded in the Book of Documents, the "Mu Shi" chapter. This is a great凶 (misfortune), indicating the disruption of ancestral worship and the collapse of state and family. Those who divinate should protect the root, be cautious in preserving the family lineage, and in any conflict of survival, avoid confrontation.

晉　天之所予，福祿常在，不憂危殆。（小畜之遯，損之遯，臨之復）

The hexagram "Huan" transforming into "Jin" indicates that something bestowed by Heaven is present, with blessings and official rank constantly by one's side, without worry or danger. This forest symbolizes Heaven granting its blessings, with a firm foundation, representing a favorable and secure situation. The person seeking the divination does not gain by chance, but rather receives what is rightfully due. They should calmly accept it and maintain it with integrity, thus avoiding any risk of collapse.

明夷　比目附翼，相待為福。姜氏季女，與君合德。（節之隨）

The hexagram Hunan (Dispersal) and Mingyi (Darkness) indicate that the couple is like the paired fish swimming together and the paired birds flying with wings joined. They rely on each other to achieve happiness. A young girl from the Jiang family is matched with a man of virtue. The Erya states that both the paired fish and the paired birds cannot move without their pairs. This suggests that the person in question has a harmonious partner, with inner and outer aspects complementing each other. The interpreter should consider working together or discussing marriage, as acting alone is difficult, but when united, fortune is achieved.

家人　翕翕□，稍崩墜顛。滅其令名，長沒不全。（泰之謙，否之離，益之坎）

The hexagram Hun (Dispersal) combined with Jiaoren (Family) indicates that on the surface, there is a harmonious and agreeable appearance, with people merely following along and not being sincere. However, the foundation is gradually collapsing and falling apart. The good reputation is thus lost, leading to long-term decline and failure to maintain it. The "Small Ode: Xiao Min" from the Book of Songs criticizes "xixi zizi," which refers precisely to this kind of superficial conformity. This situation shows that the household is empty and lacks substance, eventually leading to a loss of reputation. Those who interpret the divination should eliminate falsehoods and preserve truth, and should not maintain the family affairs through mere superficial compliance.

睽　折芒蔽目，不見雉叔。三足飛鳥，遠去家室。（師之蒙，坤之同人）

The divination indicates a situation where the person is self-imposed blind, leading to the loss of close relatives. The person is like someone who plucks out the芒草 to cover their eyes, thus failing to see the nearby 雉叔. A three-legged strange bird flaps its wings and flies away from home. The diviner cannot see the situation clearly because they themselves have set up barriers. It is advisable to first remove preconceptions, otherwise even close family members will become distant and scattered.

蹇　羊腸九縈，相催稍前。止須王孫，乃能上天。（豐之升，履之師，蠱之剝，損之屯）

The divination indicates a situation akin to a narrow, winding path that twists and turns, with people pushing and shoving to move forward. Only when the nobleman arrives to take charge can one finally reach the heavens. This suggests that the path is difficult and without the support of a nobleman, it cannot be traversed. The person seeking guidance should be patient, take things step by step, and seek the assistance of someone powerful. Trying to proceed alone and forcefully will not lead to success.

解　坤厚地德，庶物蕃息。平康正直，以綏大福。（泰之解，巽之困，賁之履）

The hexagram "Huan" (Dispersing) leads to "Jie" (Resolving). The virtue of the earth lies in its broad and thick nature, thus enabling all things to flourish upon it. The "Book of Documents · Hongfan" says, "Peaceful and upright," meaning that by being peaceful in conduct and upright in heart, one can enjoy great blessings. This indicates that the person in question possesses great virtue, carrying things with tolerance and attaining peace through uprightness. It is a sign of returning to smoothness after difficulty. The one who interprets the oracle should treat others with tolerance, remain upright and not be swayed, and blessings will naturally come.

損　有莘外野，不逢堯主。復歸窮處，心勞志苦。

The divination indicates a situation of dispersion leading to loss. A person is working in the fields outside the state of Youxin but does not meet a sage ruler like Yao. He returns to a state of poverty, exhausted in mind and spirit, with his aspirations frustrated. Yi Yin worked in the fields of Youxin and later met Tang, as recorded in the "Mencius · Wan Zhang." This suggests that the person divined has talents but has not yet met the right opportunity, and thus wastes his efforts in vain. The one seeking divination should remain patient and wait for the right time, without forcing matters in the present.

益　咠長景行，來觀柘桑。止伯自喜，都叔允藏。

Divination shows benefit from dispersal. Private conversations were first passed on, then people proceeded along the great path, coming to observe the growth of the mulberry and the osier trees. The elder brother remained and felt happy, while the younger brother in the city indeed had ample storage. Mulberry and osier trees are the foundation for raising silkworms; observing the mulberry trees is equivalent to examining agricultural affairs. The owner of this forest follows the right path and examines practical matters. The diviner diligently engages in his own profession and personally inquires, thus achieving abundant harvests and household savings.

夬　周師伐紂，戰於牧野。甲子平旦，天下喜悅。（謙之噬嗑，節之升）

The hexagram Hun (Dispersing) transforms into Guai (Breaking Up). When King Wu of Zhou attacked King Zhou of Shang, the decisive battle took place at Muye. On the day of Jiazi, the first light of day, the battle was decided in one single engagement, and all the people under heaven rejoiced. This event is recorded in the Book of Documents, the "Mu Shi" and the Records of the Grand Historian, the "Zhou Ben Ji." This line indicates the removal of evil and the decisive defeat of wrongdoing, achieving success in one move. The person seeking the divination can now decisively resolve the troubles they wish to eliminate. Action should be swift rather than slow, and it is in line with the expectations of the people.

姤　踰江求橘，並得大栗。烹羊食豕，飲食歌笑。

The hexagram Hun (Dispersal) transforms into Guo (Encounter). Crossing a great river to seek out citrus fruits, and along the way also obtaining large chestnuts; slaughtering a sheep and roasting a pig, enjoying a banquet with singing and laughter. This indicates that the person in question will gain something while traveling away, achieving unexpected benefits and experiencing joy from feasting and merriment. Those who travel far to acquire something will surely obtain what they desire, and also receive additional rewards. Matters concerning trade, banquets, and visiting friends will all be favorable.

萃　敝笱在梁，魴逸不禁。漁夫勞苦，口燋喉乾。虛空無有。（遯之大過）

The hexagram Hun (Dispersal) combines with Cui (Gathering). A broken bamboo basket lies across the fish weir, and the crucian carp slip away one by one, unable to be stopped; the fisherman works hard, his mouth dry, but in the end the basket is empty. The "Book of Songs · Qi Wind · Bi Gou" uses this to mock lax supervision. This situation indicates that the person in question has neglected maintenance of their tools and has overlooked security, resulting in the loss of all their gains. The one making the divination should first mend their own weaknesses, otherwise their efforts will be in vain.

升　生有陰孽，制家非陽。遂受還作，張氏易休。憂禍重凶。

The hexagram of Dispersing leads to Ascending. A hidden evil root has grown within the family, and the person in charge is not the rightful male head of the household. Thus, misfortunes recur continuously, and the Zhang family has changed its master. Worry and calamity accumulate heavily, which is extremely dangerous. This line indicates internal strife and a takeover, with the head of the family being replaced. The person divining should beware of growing internal dangers. It is advisable to clarify roles and purify the household. Delaying action will make it difficult to reverse the situation.

困　絕域異路，多有怪惡。使我驚懼，思我故處。

The hexagram of Dispersal followed by the hexagram of Obstruction. One is in a very distant foreign land, on an unfamiliar path, encountering many strange and evil things along the way; causing fear and panic, longing desperately for one's old home. This indicates a traveler far from home encountering danger and being unable to return. The interpreter should not go to a foreign place, and if already abroad, should think of returning early, not staying long in a dangerous and unfamiliar place.

井　迷行失道，不得馬牛。伯賈□亡，市沒無有。

The hexagram "Huan" (Dispersing) combined with "Well" indicates being lost and going in the wrong direction, unable to find lost cattle and oxen. The merchant named Bo incurs losses and flees, leading to a decline in the market with nothing left. This situation suggests confusion in direction and complete loss of capital; all matters concerning searching for lost items, business ventures, and pursuing debts will end in failure. The person consulting the oracle should first clarify their direction and avoid blind investment. Since the market conditions are unfavorable, it is advisable to temporarily withdraw.

革　雌鸑生鵰，神異興起。乘雲龍騰，民戴為父。

The hexagram of Dispersing leads to the hexagram of Revolution. A female phoenix gives birth to a magnificent bird, and a miraculous phenomenon arises from this; it soars through the clouds like a dragon, and the people revere it as a father figure. The bird called Yuetuo belongs to the category of phoenixes, as mentioned in the "Guoyu · Zhouyu" that "When the Zhou dynasty rose to power, the Yuetuo cried out on the Qishan mountain." This forest symbolizes a sudden emergence, a renewal of old things and establishment of new ones, with the people's hearts turning to it. Those who consult the oracle may expect an extraordinary encounter and achieve remarkable success suddenly.

鼎　迭迭累累，如岐之室。畜一息十，古公治邑。（恆之小過）

The hexagram is "Ding" (The Cauldron) from "Huan." The houses are built layer upon layer, one after another, like the dwellings beneath Qishan Mountain; raising one animal can lead to tenfold increase, resembling the scene when Gonggong Danfu established the city. This is recorded in "Records of the Grand Historian: The Annals of the Zhou Dynasty." This is a favorable omen for establishing a foundation, multiplying wealth and livestock. Those who divinate should buy property to build a family, and their accumulated wealth will certainly be substantial.

震　瘡瘍疥瘙，孝婦不省。君多疣贅，四時作災。

The divination indicates that the person is suffering from various skin ailments such as sores, scabies, and itching, which are very painful and difficult to bear. Even a filial wife is unable to provide proper care. The master also has many warts and is constantly plagued by illnesses throughout the year, leading to misfortune. The person in question is seriously ill and has not recovered for a long time, and the family is unable to provide adequate care. The diviner should seek medical advice promptly and not delay treatment for minor ailments, as they may accumulate into serious problems.

艮　羊頭兔足，羸瘦少肉。漏囊敗粟，利無所得。（剝之恆，既濟之訟）

The hexagram is Huan (Dispersing) over Gen (Mountain). A sheep's head attached to a rabbit's legs, thin and bony with little flesh; the bag is leaking and contains spoiled millet. Seeking gain will result in nothing. This indicates that the person's form and substance are not in harmony, and all accumulated wealth is lost. For matters of investment, savings, and business, wealth cannot be retained. The one who divines should first mend the leak, otherwise, whatever is gained will be lost in equal measure.

漸　孽蔑徙靡，空無誰是。言季不明，樂減少解。

The hexagram of Dispersing leads to Gradual Progress. Misfortune and contempt follow each other in a confused and chaotic manner, making it hard to distinguish right from wrong. Words are spoken but remain unclear, joy gradually diminishes, and doubts are difficult to resolve. This indicates that the person in question is confused about right and wrong, speech is unclear, and joy fades. The one who draws this hexagram encounters a matter of contention and is unable to reach a conclusion at the moment. It is advisable to temporarily set the matter aside and wait for clarity to emerge naturally.

歸妹　妹貌親熟，敗君正色。作事不成，自為心賊。

The divination indicates that the hexagram "Huan" (Dispersing) relates to "Gui Mei" (Return of the Maiden). A young maiden's appearance is intimate and familiar, which disrupts the upright demeanor of the gentleman. Consequently, the affairs undertaken cannot succeed, as the matter originates from within, from the heart. This suggests that the person in charge is indulging in private affection, thereby neglecting his proper duties. The diviner should examine his own thoughts and not let personal matters interfere with his main responsibilities. Otherwise, the one who causes failure is not another person, but rather his own heart.

豐　四馬共轅，東上太山。騂驪同力，無有重艱。與君笑言。（剝之解）

The hexagram of Huan transforms into Feng. Four horses pull a single yoke, climbing Mount Tai to the east; the red horse and black horse work together with united hearts, overcoming all difficult obstacles, traveling with the ruler in joy and conversation. This indicates that the person in charge has unity and cooperation, turning difficult paths into easy ones. Those who collaborate with others can share burdens and overcome challenges. All who travel together and strive for great endeavors are auspicious.

旅　陰變為陽，女化為男。治道得通，君臣相衛。（豐之節，未濟之夬，屯之離）

The hexagram of Huan (Dispersing) in the context of a journey indicates the transformation of yin into yang, and a woman turning into a man. This signifies the way of governing the country becoming clear, with the ruler and ministers supporting each other. This is a sign of a situation turning around, shifting from weakness to strength, representing a change after reaching an extreme. Those who divinate now may be in a lower position, but their fortune will undergo a significant turning point. At that time, harmony between superiors and inferiors will be achieved, and endeavors can succeed.

巽　南國少子，才略美好。求我長女，賤薄不與。反得醜惡，後乃大悔。（比之漸，泰之震，漸之困）

The divination indicates that the hexagram is "Huan" (Dispersing) interacting with "Xun" (Wind). A young man from a southern state, who is both talented and resourceful, comes to propose marriage to my eldest daughter. I dislike his lowly background and refuse to marry him, instead marrying my daughter to a wicked person. Later, I regret my decision. This situation reflects a person who judges others by appearance and misses a good match. Those who select people or matters should not rely solely on external appearances, otherwise they will regret it later.

兌　昭公失常，季女悖狂。遜齊處野，喪其寵光。（遯之蠱）

The hexagram is "Huan" (Dispersing) and the trigram is "Dui" (Lake). Duke Zhao of Lu lost his proper conduct, and the women in the palace became disorderly and wild. Eventually, he fled to the State of Qi and took refuge in the wilderness, losing his former favor and glory. This is recorded in the "Zuo Zhuan · Year 25 of Duke Zhao." The ruler has lost his position and left the country, having lost all his honor and favor. The diviner should be cautious and adhere to the laws and regulations, not allowing the chaos within the inner court to shake the fundamental principles.

節　文山紫芝，雍梁朱草。生長和氣，王以為寶。公尸侑食，福祿來處。（同人之剝，豐之家人）

The hexagram "Huan" indicates a time of dispersion and regulation. In Wen Mountain, purple chrysanthemums grow, and in Yongzhou and Liangzhou, red grass thrives. These auspicious plants arise due to harmonious energies, and the king regards them as treasures of the state. During rituals, the public corpse is encouraged to eat, as mentioned in the "Great Ya" section of the "Book of Songs" with the phrase "the public corpse enjoys a feast." Thus, blessings and honors follow. This forest is auspicious, signifying the appearance of omens and blessings from sacrifices. Those who interpret the omens may hope to receive heavenly favor.

中孚　牽羊不前，與心戾旋。聞言不信，誤紿丈人。

In the hexagram of Zhun (The Abiding), the person is like leading a sheep by the rope but unable to move it forward, going against their own will; they listen to others' words but do not believe them, thus deceiving the elder. This indicates that the person's intentions are not aligned, and their sincerity is lacking. The one divining is doing things in a clumsy way, and is prone to lose the trust of elders due to not listening to advice. They should be humble and willing to accept others' words in order to change their situation for the better.

小過　東山西山，各自止安。心雖相望，竟不同堂。（姤之坤，漸之屯，中孚之賁）

The divination indicates a situation of dispersion and minor misfortune. On the east there is a mountain, on the west another mountain, each occupying its own place. Though their hearts yearn for each other from afar, they cannot be together in the same hall. This omen suggests a situation where two people are separated by distance but still connected in feeling. The person seeking divination and the one they think of are each in their own position. Forcing them together would lead to conflict. It is better for both to remain in their respective places and maintain communication from a distance.

既濟　鹿求其子，虎廬之裡。唐伯李耳，貪不我許。（隨之否）

After the completion of the journey, a mother deer was searching for her young but found a tiger's den instead. Tang Bo and Li Er were originally alternative names for the tiger, as mentioned in the "Dialects" text. This tiger is known for its greed and would not return the young deer. The person seeking what is lost has mistakenly entered a dangerous place. The person being sought after has already fallen into the hands of a powerful and ruthless individual. It is futile to attempt to reclaim what has been taken. One should stop early and protect oneself.

未濟　三虎上山，更相咆哮。心志不親，如仇與怨。（姤之小過）

The hexagram is "Huan" followed by "Wei Ji." Three tigers ascend the mountain together, roaring at each other continuously; their hearts and wills are not in harmony, like enemies or bitter rivals. This indicates that the leader is gathering strong individuals who do not get along, and any partnership, collaboration, or shared living situation will develop conflicts due to competition. The person consulting the oracle should not conspire with strong individuals of the same kind; rather, each acting independently can avoid trouble.

節　海為水王，聰聖且明。百流歸德，無有叛逆。常饒優足，不利攻玉。所求弗得。（末二句疑衍）

The section discusses the concept of "节之节" (the principle of moderation in moderation). The great sea is the sovereign of all waters, wise and enlightened; all rivers and streams flow towards its benevolence, none going against it. Thus, it is always abundant and sufficient. However, it is not favorable for carving jade or obtaining things quickly. This section indicates that the forest represents a place of great virtue, attracting many, with a solid foundation, which is a favorable situation for gathering strength. However, it is not suitable for meticulous and refined tasks like jade carving.

乾　虎豹怒咆，慎戒外憂。上下俱搔，士民無聊。

The trigram Qian (Heaven) indicates a time of strength and dominance. Tigers and leopards roar in anger, warning of the need for caution and vigilance against external dangers. All levels are disturbed and unsettled, with scholars and common people having no support. This suggests a situation where a powerful enemy is outside the country, causing unrest throughout the realm. Those who interpret the omen should be especially careful to guard against external threats, first ensuring internal stability and harmony. They must not provoke conflict unnecessarily.

坤　探巢得雛，鳩鵲俱來，使我心憂。

The divination indicates the trigram of Earth. Reaching into a nest to take a young bird, but then both magpies and pigeons come flying together, making a noisy disturbance, which causes me sorrow. This forest owner is greedy for small gains and thus brings about entanglements, resulting in more loss than gain. The one who divines may gain something, but will face more troubles afterward. It is advisable to weigh the situation carefully, and if necessary, to let go, in order to avoid worries.

屯　日望一食，常恐不足，祿命寡薄。

The divination indicates a situation of stagnation and difficulty. Every day one can only hope to have a single meal, and often worries about not having enough, showing that both salary and destiny are very meager. This person faces hardships in clothing and food, with income insufficient to cover expenses. The person seeking the divination is currently in a difficult situation and should practice frugality, manage expenses according to income, avoid major expenditures and actions.

蒙　良馬疾走，千里一宿。離逃它鄉，誰能追復。

The divination indicates a situation of sudden loss. A good horse can run swiftly, covering a thousand miles in one night; but once it flees to another place, who can catch up with it? This suggests that the person in question may lose their talents or property quickly, and once lost, it will be difficult to recover. If the diviner has capable people or important things, they must take measures promptly to retain them. Once they are lost, it will be hard to regain them.

需　鵲巢鳩城，上下不親。內外乖畔，子走失顧。

The divination indicates a situation of disruption. A magpie's nest is occupied by a dove, symbolizing a change of power in the city, leading to a lack of harmony between superiors and inferiors. There is disunity within and betrayal from outside, with the son leaving home and no one to care for the family. The poem from the Book of Songs, Zhao Nan, "The Magpie's Nest" originally describes "The magpie has a nest, the dove inhabits it." This omen suggests that the family's foundation is being occupied by others, and the family members are scattered. The person consulting should beware of external encroachment and take measures to stabilize the internal situation as soon as possible.

訟　雲龍集會，征討西戎。招邊定眾，誰敢當鋒。

The hexagram of "Strife" indicates a situation where clouds and dragons meet, symbolizing a powerful force coming together. This is like mobilizing an army to campaign against the Western Rong tribes; there is also an effort to pacify border regions and stabilize the people. Who would dare to face such formidable strength head-on? The ruler of the forest (the subject in question) is currently in a position of great authority and unstoppable momentum. If the person consulting the oracle has a dispute or conflict, their strength is on their side. They should act decisively and also combine this with efforts to pacify and reconcile, which will greatly increase their chances of success.

師　春多膏澤，夏潤優渥。稼穡成熟，畝獲百斛。（臨之明夷）

The divination indicates a favorable time for agriculture. In spring, the rain is abundant and nourishing, like rich oil, and in summer, the moisture is sufficient. Crops thus mature abundantly, yielding over a hundred dou per mu. This is a great blessing for farming, indicating timely rain and a bountiful harvest. Those who engage in endeavors will find their efforts smoothly realized, with rich rewards. It is especially favorable for farming, investment, and long-term business ventures.

比　僮妾獨宿，長女未室。利無所得。（豫之益，蠱之履，乾之蒙）

The interpretation of the section compares the situation. A young servant girl sleeps alone, while the eldest daughter of the family has not yet married. Therefore, she does not gain any benefit. This indicates that the main subject has yin and yang not connected, and the marriage prospects are not yet formed, leading to stagnation of vitality. The person seeking fortune lacks coordination, and the matter cannot be achieved at once. It is advisable to first promote the union of human affairs before seeking profit.

小畜　四野不安，東西為患。退身止足，無出邦域。乃得全完，賴其生福。（觀之小過，旅之豫，大有之睽）

The divination indicates a situation of restraint and careful preservation. The four directions of the land are not at peace, with calamities arising both to the east and west. At this time, it is advisable to withdraw and protect oneself, to be content and refrain from further action, and to remain within one's own territory in order to ensure safety and to cultivate good fortune. This reading suggests that external disturbances exist while internal conditions remain calm, and retreat is considered auspicious. Those who consult this should avoid long journeys and reckless movements. Remaining in one's place and adhering to one's proper role is the way to preserve oneself and gain blessings.

履　長寧履福，安我百國。嘉賓上堂，與季同床。

The divination indicates a situation of enduring peace and stability, with the ruler's hundred states all secure. Distinguished guests enter the hall and share a night's conversation with the host's young brother. This signifies a country in prosperity, families at peace, and harmonious relations between host and guest. The person consulting the oracle is in a secure environment, experiencing the joy of esteemed visitors and the benefit of meeting good friends. All matters concerning hospitality and deliberation will proceed smoothly.

泰　騏驥綠耳，章明造父。伯夙奏獻，衰續厥緒。佐文成霸，為晉元輔。

The divination indicates a harmonious transition. Qiji and Lü'er were famous horses of King Mu of Zhou, thereby bringing fame to the driver Zhaofu. Zhao Su contributed meritorious deeds, and Zhao Cui continued his legacy, assisting Duke Wen of Jin in achieving hegemony and becoming the chief minister of Jin state. This is recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: Zhao Family Annals." This divination suggests a great man named Lin Dají, indicating the continuation of family lineage and assisting the ruler in establishing great achievements. The diviner may expect to inherit the legacy and establish a distinguished reputation.

否　張陳嘉謀，贊成漢都。主歡民喜，其樂休休。（張良、陳平也）

The hexagram indicates a situation of obstruction. Zhang Liang and Chen Ping presented wise strategies, assisting in establishing the capital in Guanzhong and laying the foundation for the Han dynasty. The ruler was delighted, and the people were joyful, experiencing a sense of ease and contentment. This is recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: The Family of Liu Hou" and "The Family of Chen the Chancellor." This hexagram signifies that ministers and strategists are effective, and major plans are settled. If the person consulting the oracle can obtain the help of virtuous advisors, they can achieve their goals. They should listen to good strategies and ensure the unity of the people's hearts.

同人　大面長頭，來解君憂。遺吾福善，與我嘉惠。

The trigram of节 (Restraint) combined with同人 (Unity) indicates that a person of outstanding appearance and demeanor will come to relieve the worries of the ruler. This person brings blessings, good results, and favorable favors. The master of the forest, the Nobleman, appears in a timely manner, resolving worries and troubles. The person seeking divination will have someone else to resolve their difficulties. It is advisable to welcome people broadly and not judge by appearances, for favors will come naturally.

大有　畏昏不行，待旦昭明。燎獵受福，老賴其慶。（夬之損）

The divination indicates great gain. Because of fear of darkness, one does not act hastily but waits until daylight to set out. By lighting fires for hunting, there is a substantial harvest, and the elderly can rely on this good fortune for support. This forest owner acts with careful timing and steady action, thus gaining blessings. The interpreter should not act in the dark but wait for clear opportunities before taking action, which will naturally lead to abundant results and also benefit the elders in the household.

謙　伯去我東，首髮如蓬。長夜不寐，輾轉空床。內懷惆悵，憂摧肝腸。（垢之遯）

The divination indicates a situation of parting and longing. The husband has gone eastward, leaving me behind, and I no longer care to comb my hair, which now looks like flying thistles, as the "Book of Songs · Wei Wind · Bo Xi" says, "Since my lord went east, my hair is like flying thistles." Through long, sleepless nights, I toss and turn on an empty bed, my heart full of sorrow and melancholy, my grief breaking my heart. This is a case of separation and longing, with the person being left behind alone in an empty house. The diviner and the loved one are temporarily separated, and it is advisable to remain calm and comfort oneself.

豫　朽條腐索，不堪施用。安靜候時，以待親知。

The divination indicates a time of restraint. Withered branches and rotten ropes are of no use; at this time, one should remain quiet and wait for the right opportunity, expecting help from friends and old acquaintances. The situation suggests that the tools and human resources available are insufficient, and forcing action will lead to unexpected problems. The person seeking the divination should withdraw and remain still, waiting for others to assist. Acting alone or relying on old methods and things will not be reliable.

隨　比目四翼，相倚為福。姜氏季女，與君合德。（煥之明夷）

The section speaks of following in harmony. When two fish swim together, they form a pair; when the wings of the bird with one pair of wings are joined, they can achieve happiness together. The young daughter of the Jiang family is in harmony with the virtuous gentleman. This indicates that the person in question is destined for a good match, relying on each other for support. The diviner should seek a suitable partner. Matters concerning marriage and partnerships are favorable. If one acts alone, blessings are thin, but if one follows in harmony with another, blessings are abundant.

蠱　履階升墀，高登崔嵬。福祿洋溢，依天之威。

The divination indicates a situation of transformation and change. Ascending step by step onto the vermilion terrace, one gradually reaches lofty heights; blessings and official rank are abundant and overflowing, all relying on the divine protection and grace of heaven. The person in question will steadily rise in status and prestige, and the diviner foresees that the seeker will achieve advancement in official career. Success depends not on human effort alone but on favorable fortune. It is advisable to revere heaven and uphold righteousness, thus ensuring the preservation of blessings and official rank.

臨　奢淫吝嗇，神所不福。靈祗憑怒，鬼瞰其室。

The divination indicates a person who is both extravagant and stingy, which displeases the heavenly deities and incurs the wrath of the earth spirits. Malevolent spirits lurk around his dwelling. Yang Xiong wrote in his "Jie Chao" that "the homes of the virtuous are watched by ghosts." This person has lost moral integrity and is thus subject to supernatural punishment. The diviner should be warned to avoid extravagance and stinginess, and to act with moderation. Otherwise, misfortune will lurk in the shadows.

觀　大步上車，南到喜家。送我狐裘，與福載來。（中孚之泰，未濟之坤）

The hexagram indicates a journey with favorable results. Taking a big step, one mounts the carriage and travels south to a house where a wedding is being held. The host gifts me a fox fur coat, along with good fortune, which I return with. This indicates that the owner of the forest will receive gifts on his journey and gain blessings. Those who go south or attend a joyful gathering will surely benefit. All movements and social interactions are auspicious, and there is also joy in gaining wealth and possessions.

噬嗑　東行西步，失次後舍。乾侯野井，昭王失居，與彼作期，不覺至夜。

The divination indicates disorder in movement and loss of place. Going east yet taking a step west, the steps are confused, falling behind the destination. Duke Lu Zhao Gong fled and died in the wild well of Ganhou, losing his home. An appointment was made, yet without realizing, it has already turned to night. This is recorded in the Zuo Zhuan, Year 32 of Duke Zhao. This forest indicates disorder in movement and loss of place, and leaving the country without a proper dwelling. Those who divinate should be cautious in their travels, following order and not missing the appointed time or place.

賁　喜樂踴躍，來迎歡客。鵲巢百兩，以成嘉福。多獲利益。

The auspicious signs indicate a joyful and prosperous wedding. People are delighted and excited, welcoming guests who come to celebrate. The "Book of Songs, Zhaonan, Qiechao" says, "The young lady is about to marry, with a hundred chariots accompanying her." A grand procession of a hundred vehicles and horses brings about a beautiful blessing, leading to abundant gains and benefits. This omen suggests that Lin Da Ji will have a successful wedding, with harmonious ceremonies and many guests, along with gains in wealth and profit.

剝　非理所求，誰肯相與。往來不獲，徒勞道路。

The divination indicates a situation of breaking or separation. The matter being sought is unreasonable and unlikely to be accepted by anyone. There will be back and forth with no results, and one will waste time and effort in vain. The person in question is forcefully pursuing something beyond their due, encountering obstacles everywhere. The matter the seeker is after is itself unsound. Even if they run themselves to exhaustion, it will not succeed. They should first reflect on whether their request is appropriate and make a change in approach to find a way forward.