The Forest of Zhongfu (the 64th hexagram Zhongfu)

中孚　鳥鳴喈喈，天火將下。燔我屋室，災及妃后。（兌之革）

In the middle of Zhongfu, a great commotion arises as all the birds cry out in a continuous and unusual manner. Heavenly Fire is about to descend, burning down my house and dwelling, and the calamity extends to the queen and concubines. The abnormal noise of the birds was regarded by ancients as a sign of fire. This omen is extremely ominous for fire, indicating the destruction of the home and the involvement of the inner family. Those who draw this omen must be especially cautious with fire and candles. The women and children in the household should be particularly careful. If any strange phenomena are observed, they should leave quickly.

乾　黃虹之野，賢君所在。管仲為相，國無災咎。

The trigram Zhongfu (Middle Trust) with the trigram Qian (Heaven) indicates a vast plain crossed by a yellow rainbow, precisely where a wise sovereign is located. With a minister like Guan Zhong serving as prime minister, the country experiences no calamities or mistakes. Guan Zhong assisted Duke Huan of Qi in uniting the feudal lords nine times, as recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: The Biographies of Guan and Yan." This situation, represented by Lin Dají, signifies the harmonious relationship between a wise ruler and a virtuous minister. Those who consult this divination may expect to encounter an outstanding leader or gain the support of a capable assistant, ensuring peace and security for both family and country.

坤　叔梁有名，相與合齒。乾坤利貞，乳生六子。長大成就，風言如母。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust), the trigram Kun (Earth) is present. Shu Liang He was well known and had a suitable match, forming a marriage with someone of equal status. The trigrams Qian (Heaven) and Kun (Earth) are favorable for maintaining correctness, and their interaction produces six subsidiary trigrams. The children grow up with speech and demeanor resembling their mother. This indicates that the family has a proper marriage, many descendants, and the fortune teller concludes that the marriage is auspicious, with the family tradition continuing and future generations thriving.

屯　蝗囓我稻，驅不可去。實穗無有，但見空槁。（豫之師）

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust) in the context of Zhun (Obstruction) indicates that locusts are eating the rice crops, and no matter how hard one tries to drive them away, they cannot be removed. The sturdy ears of grain are completely gone, leaving only dry, empty stalks. This signifies that the owner of the forest is suffering from an external pest that is destroying the foundation, resulting in a complete failure of the harvest. The person consulting the oracle has their endeavors being consumed by others, and it is advisable to first eliminate these destructive pests. Otherwise, all the effort will be in vain.

蒙　嬰孩求乳，母歸其子，黃麑悅喜。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust), the situation is like an infant crying for milk, prompting the mother to return to the child; even the young yellow deer in the forest are delighted. This represents a harmonious relationship between mother and child, where needs are met and affection flows. If someone is longing for another, that person will return; if something is desired, it will be obtained. All matters concerning nurturing and seeking help will be fulfilled.

需　折箬蔽目，不見稚叔。失旅亡民，遠去家室。

The divination indicates that the person is self-imposed blindness, causing close relatives to scatter and people to flee from their homes. If one covers their eyes with a bamboo leaf, they cannot see nearby relatives. Those traveling together become separated, and the people are far from their families. The ruler of this forest is blocking his own vision, leading to the dispersion of the people. The interpreter should first remove the obstruction before the person loses even those nearby. It is especially dangerous to act blindly, as it causes people to scatter.

訟　牂羊羵首，君子不飽。年飢孔荒，士民危殆。

The divination indicates a situation of mutual hardship and scarcity. The mother sheep is so thin that only its head remains, symbolizing extreme poverty. The "Book of Songs," specifically "Xiao Ya · Tiao Zhi Hua," describes the suffering of a famine year with the phrase "Zang Yang Fen Shou," meaning a sheep with a swollen head, which represents the dire conditions of a year of famine. Even the noble gentleman is unable to eat enough, and the harvest is poor, leaving both scholars and common people in perilous circumstances. This indicates that the ruler is facing a severe famine and both the upper and lower classes are in a difficult situation. The diviner should advise frugality and food storage, and all disputes over food and resources should be put aside.

師　靈龜陸處，盤桓失所。伊子退耕，桀亂無輔。（歸妹之井，歸妹之剝）

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust) indicates a situation of a military campaign. The divine turtle is trapped on land, hesitating and unable to find its proper dwelling; Yi Yin retreats to till the fields, while King Jie of Xia is in chaos with no one to support him. This situation signifies that the virtuous person is out of position, and in a time of disorder, there is no assistance. The one seeking guidance finds themselves without support and without allies; they should temporarily withdraw and remain in self-preservation, waiting for a capable leader to assist, and should not force themselves to remain in a chaotic situation.

比　威約拘囚，為人所誣。皋陶平理，幾得脫免。

The hexagram Zhong Fu indicates a situation where someone is forced into detention due to threats and pressure, actually being falsely accused. Fortunately, there is a fair and impartial judge like Yao Tao to investigate the case, and the person is almost able to clear their name and avoid punishment. Yao Tao was the judicial official of Shun, as mentioned in the Book of Documents, the Shun Dian. This person is suffering from wrongful accusations and is encountering someone who is discerning and just. Although the fortune suggests possible legal troubles and imprisonment, in the end, the person will be exonerated. It is advisable to present the facts clearly and defend oneself.

小畜　烏升鵲舉，照臨東海。龍降庭堅，為陶叔後。封於蓼丘，福履綏厚。（謙之頤，需之大畜，觀之頤）

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust) corresponds to Xiao Xu (Small Livestock). Crows flying high and magpies spreading their wings illuminate the shores of the East Sea; a divine dragon descends to establish the surname Ting Jian, which becomes the surname Tao Shu, and is granted the territory of Liao Qu. This brings abundant blessings and security. After Gao Yao, the descendants were granted territories in Ying, Liu, and Liao, as recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: The Annals of the Xia Dynasty." This Lin Da Ji is associated with the birth of a noble son, receiving a territory, and enduring prosperity.

履　四目相視，稍延同埶。日映之後，見吾伯姊。（益之需）

The divination indicates that the person seeking guidance is longing to meet someone, and after a long wait, they will finally meet. The situation suggests that two people who have been longing for each other will eventually come together. Those who are looking for a meeting, searching for someone, or arranging a family connection can expect their wishes to come true, though it will take some time.

泰　大步上車，南至喜家。送我狐裘，與福載來。（節之觀，未濟之坤）

The divination indicates a favorable situation. Taking a big step, one boards a vehicle and travels south to a place where a wedding is being held. The host gifts me a fox fur coat, along with good fortune, which I bring back. This signifies that the person in charge attends a celebration and receives a gift, returning with a full load. Those who travel south or attend a ceremony are certain to gain something. Any matters involving social interaction and receiving gifts are auspicious.

否　穿都相合，未敢面見。媒妁無良，使我不鄉。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center), the situation is one of failure. Although an agreement has already been reached between the parties involved, they are still not daring to meet face to face. The matchmaker is not giving his full effort, leaving the person without a place to go. This indicates that the mediator in this case is not fulfilling his duties properly, and good things are difficult to achieve. The person consulting the oracle has entrusted an unreliable intermediary, causing the relationship or transaction to remain unresolved. It is advisable to choose another reliable person to act as an intermediary.

同人　鴻飛遵陸，公母不復，伯氏客宿。（剝之井）

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center) is similar to Tong Ren (Union with the People). The wild geese fly along the high ground, as mentioned in the "Book of Songs, Bin Feng, Jiuyan" with the lines "The wild geese fly along the land, the lord returns but does not come back." The lord no longer returns, and Bo Shi can only stay overnight in the guest house. This indicates that the person in question is traveling far away and will not return, staying in a foreign land. The one being sought by the diviner may not come back, and the seeker themselves is also in a situation of being away from home. It is advisable to make early preparations for a long stay.

大有　代戍失期，患至無聊。懼以發難，為我開基，邦國憂愁。

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center) transforms into Da You (Great Abundance). Changing the garrison and defending the borders caused the deadline to be missed, leading to calamity and no support. Out of fear, they resorted to desperate measures and initiated a rebellion, which actually opened up the foundation of the enterprise. However, the state was troubled by this. Chen Sheng and Wu Guang missed their deadline for garrison duty at Yu Yang and started a rebellion, an event recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: The Chen She Family." This indicates that the master is forced to change due to extreme pressure, and there is an opportunity amidst the chaos. Those who interpret the oracle should be cautious about excessive pressure on others.

謙　伯氏爭言，戰於龍門。構怨結禍，三世不安。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu, the virtue of sincerity is emphasized. The elder brother had an argument with someone, leading to a confrontation at the Dragon Gate, which resulted in a grudge and eventual calamity, causing three generations of unrest. This incident originated from a single word dispute, causing harm to descendants. Those interpreting the divination should beware of acting on impulse and engaging in verbal disputes. Such conflicts must be resolved early to prevent accumulated grievances from affecting future generations.

豫　周政養賊，背生人足。陸行不安，國危為患。

The divination indicates that the virtue of sincerity is in harmony with joy. However, the policies of the Zhou dynasty inadvertently fostered the growth of rebels, like a person growing human feet on their back, which is strange and ominous. Traveling on land brings no stability, and the state is in great peril. This omen suggests that the ruler is indulging the wicked, nurturing evil, which will eventually turn against him. Those who interpret this should act promptly to suppress the inner threat; otherwise, if leniency continues, great calamity will surely follow.

隨　蜩螗歡喜，草木嘉茂。百果蕃生，日增富有。（謙之解）

In the hexagram Zhong Fu followed by Suí, cicadas and crickets sing joyfully, and the grass and trees are beautiful and flourishing. All kinds of fruits proliferate abundantly, and household wealth gradually increases. This forest is very auspicious, indicating harmonious weather and abundant resources. The endeavors of the person consulting the oracle will grow naturally, with increasing returns. It is advisable to act in accordance with the seasons and not to force quick results.

蠱　薄災暴虎，風吹雲卻。欲上不得，復歸其宅。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust), there is a蛊 (a type of hexagram). Disaster and misfortune are approaching, and there is also a fierce tiger. When the wind blows, the clouds disperse, but trying to move upward is impossible, so one can only return to one's own dwelling. This hexagram indicates that the path ahead is blocked, and there is no way to advance. The person seeking fortune finds that their current endeavors cannot be pushed forward at the moment. It is advisable to temporarily retreat to one's home and wait for the right opportunity when the winds and clouds meet again.

臨　乘騮駕驪，遊至東齊。遭遇行旅，送我以貨，厚得利歸。

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Trustworthiness) is present. Riding a red horse and driving a black horse, one travels to the east to the state of Qi. Along the way, encountering traveling merchants and receiving their goods, one returns with great profit. This omen indicates good fortune in wealth. It signifies that a journey will bring meeting a nobleman and unexpected gain. The one who divines should actively go out, for those encountered on the way are sources of wealth.

觀　鳳生十子，同巢共乳，歡悅相保。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust), a phoenix gives birth to ten young birds, all living together in one nest, jointly raising them, and joyfully protecting each other. This forest is very auspicious; the household is prosperous, family members are harmonious, and the person consulting the oracle finds their home in harmony, siblings united. Matters concerning adding members to the family, living together, or sharing a business are all favorable. This is an auspicious omen of a family unit protecting each other.

噬嗑　桃雀竊脂，巢於小枝。動搖不安，為風所吹。心寒慄搖，常憂殆危。（損之渙）

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust) and Shi He (Breaking Up of a Bone), the image is of small birds like the tao que and qie zhi, which build their nests on thin branches. When the wind blows, the nests sway and become unstable, causing the birds to feel cold, tremble, and often fear danger. This indicates that the person in question has chosen an unsuitable place to rely on, with a weak foundation. The one who divines should advise them to choose a more stable place to settle. If they rely on others, they will be constantly anxious and unable to find peace.

賁　東山西山，各自止安。雖相登望，不得同堂。（姤之坤，漸之屯，渙之小過）

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center) and Fen (Luxury), there are two mountains, one on the east and one on the west, each occupying its own place. Although they can see each other from a distance, they cannot be together in the same hall. This hexagram indicates that the person in the forest lives apart from their loved one, longing from afar but unable to reunite. The fortune-teller and the person they think of are each in their proper place, which is appropriate. Forcing a union may not be beneficial; instead, communication through letters is advisable to express feelings.

剝　匍匐出走，驚懼皇恐。白虎生孫，蓐收在後。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu, the situation is one of being forced to crawl on the ground to escape, filled with panic and anxiety; the White Tiger gives birth to its children, and the western metal god Ruo Shou follows closely behind. The "Guoyu · Jin Yu" records that the Duke of Guo dreamed of Ruo Shou and then his country fell. This is a very ominous omen, indicating that aInauspicious Spirit (malevolent spirit) is behind, making escape impossible. Those who interpret the omen should avoid the west and places of weapons, and be cautious and self-restrained to reduce disaster.

復　重弋射隼，不知所定。質疑蓍龜，告以肥牡。明神答報，宜利止居。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu, the situation is like drawing the bow once again to shoot at a falcon perched high on a wall. The line "The public shoots a falcon on a high wall" from the upper sixth line of The Zhou Changes (I Ching) shows hesitation. Therefore, using yarrow stalks and turtle shells for divination, they offered a fat male sacrifice to consult the spirits. The spirits responded, indicating that remaining still and unmoving is most advantageous. This person, having doubts, sought divination and found a favorable outcome of stillness. The diviner should remain and not take action.

旡妄　開門內福，喜至我側。加以善祥，為吾家宅。宮城洛邑，以昭文德。

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust) without error. Open the doors to welcome good fortune, joy and celebration come to me; along with various auspicious signs and blessings, they all come into my family. Building the city of Luo, to demonstrate propriety, music, and cultural virtue. This forest is very auspicious, indicating that good fortune comes from outside, the family thrives, and those who consult this should widely open doors to welcome good connections, and any construction or building endeavors will be smooth.

大畜　烏飛狐鳴，國亂不寧。下強上弱，為陰所刑。

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center) indicates a great accumulation. Crows flying in disorder and foxes howling at night signify unrest and disturbance within the country, causing instability and lack of peace. The lower position is strong and forceful while the upper position is weak and feeble, and it is the Yin and flexible side that ends up imposing control. Before the uprising of Chen Sheng, there was a strategy called 'foxes calling out at night,' as recorded in the 'Records of the Grand Historian: The Family of Chen She.' This situation indicates a reversal of order and rebellion from below against the superior. Those making the prediction should be cautious about subordinates growing too powerful and should take action early to restore order.

頤　三雞啄粟，八雛從食。飢鷹卒擊，失亡兩叔。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center) and Yi (Nourishment), three old hens pecking at millet grains, eight young chickens following along; suddenly a hungry eagle swooped down, killing two of the little chickens. This signifies that the person in charge is enjoying peace and comfort when sudden misfortune strikes, especially concerning siblings and relatives. The person consulting the oracle should be cautious even during times of ease and plenty, ensuring the young ones are not left alone, and beware of unexpected calamities from above.

大過　嘆息不悅，憂逆中出。喪我金罌，無妄失位。

The hexagram Zhong Fu indicates a great excess. The person sighs heavily and laments, feeling inner discomfort, with worries and obstacles arising from within. I have lost my golden jar and mysteriously lost my position. This indicates internal troubles and loss of wealth. The difficulties the diviner is facing now originate from within rather than from outside. It is advisable to first calm one's own mind and organize internal affairs, only then can the wealth position be preserved.

坎　剛柔相呼，二姓為家。霜降既同，惠我以仁。（家人之損，漸之離）

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center), the strong and the gentle respond to each other, and two surnames unite as one family. At the time of Frost Descent, they work together with benevolence and kindness towards me. In ancient customs, at Frost Descent, young women were married off, which is the time for marriage. This line indicates that the master of the forest has yin and yang in harmony, and marriage and family formation are established. Those who consult this oracle regarding relationships and contracts will find them favorable, even if they are in the midst of difficulties, they will receive help from others.

離　送我季女，至於蕩道。齊子旦夕，留連久處。

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust) with the trigram Li (Fire) indicates that the person is sending their young daughter off for marriage, accompanying her all the way to a level and broad road. In the "Book of Songs · Qi Wind," the poem describes Qi Zi coming and going on the Lu Dao, lingering and not leaving quickly, staying for a long time. This situation reflects the person sending off a relative who is departing far away, feeling reluctant and unwilling to part. The one consulting the oracle has a relative who must go away, although there is a sense of reluctance, it is still necessary to let them go, and there will not be any change or trouble.

咸　低頭竊視，有所畏避。行作不利，酒酸魚敗，眾莫貪嗜。（鼎之解）

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center) and Xian (Salt), one lowers the head and secretly looks around, with fear and avoidance in the heart; actions and endeavors are not smooth, the wine has turned sour and the fish have spoiled, yet no one is willing to indulge. This indicates that the master of the forest is timid and lacks confidence, and people all dislike him. What the diviner has prepared and what he has done have lost their freshness and timeliness. It is advisable to completely replace them; forcing their implementation only brings neglect and cold reception.

恆　典策法書，藏在蘭臺。雖遭亂潰，獨不遇災。（巽之明夷，坤之大畜，大有之恆）

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust) corresponds to the hexagram Heng (Continuity). The state's classic texts, bamboo slips, and legal documents are stored in the Lantai (Blue Pavilion); even though there is turmoil and collapse, these things remain unharmed. The Lantai was the place where the Han dynasty's historians kept their books. This forest indicates that those who are good at preserving things will remain intact. The person divining should keep important people, affairs, and property in secure places, so that they can survive alone in times of chaos.

遯　旦醉病酒，暮即瘳愈，獨不及咎。

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust) indicates a retreat. In the morning, one is drunk and ill, but by evening has already recovered, without causing any serious mistake. This suggests that the person in question has a minor illness or slight misstep that quickly heals without consequence. The person seeking the oracle is currently experiencing some discomfort or error, but it is temporary and will soon pass without leaving any lasting problems. One should remain calm, take care of oneself, and not worry excessively.

大壯　畫龍頭頸，文章不成。甘言美語，說辭不名。（升之蒙，蒙之噬嗑，家人之賁）

The hexagram Zhong Fu transforms into Da Zhuang. Drawing a dragon only the head and neck are depicted, with no patterns, scales, or claws; just as speaking sweet words, which sound good but cannot be substantiated. This indicates that the person in question starts well but fails to finish, speaking without substance. Those who listen to promises are likely to find them unfulfilled. Therefore, in matters of cooperation and commitments, one should verify actual results and not be swayed by eloquent words.

晉　日月運行，一寒一暑。榮光赫赫，不可得保。顛躓殞墜，更為士伍。（巽之震）

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithfulness in the Center), the sun and moon turn ceaselessly, with cold and heat alternating. Human glory, however great, cannot last forever. Once a fall occurs, one becomes just an ordinary soldier. The "Great Treatise" of the "Zhou Yi" states, "When cold departs, heat comes." Fullness and emptiness follow their time. This forest symbolizes the inevitable decline after great prosperity. Those who predict should prepare for retreat during the peak of success, avoiding arrogance and overconfidence.

明夷　爭利王市，朝多君子。蘇氏六國，獲其榮寵。

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust) is associated with Ming Yi (Dim Light). In the marketplace of the royal capital, people are competing for profit, and there are many virtuous men in the court. Su Qin persuaded the six states, wearing the seals of ministers of all six, achieving honor and favor. This is recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: Su Qin's Biography." This forest indicates that one should attain status through eloquence and strategy. The person divining should display their talents in places where many are competing, and through active persuasion and travel, they can achieve fame.

家人　六蛇奔走，俱入茂草。驚於長塗，畏懼啄口。（井之兌，豐之兌）

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center), the image of the Family is depicted. Six snakes flee together, all retreating into dense grass. On a long journey they are frightened, fearing being bitten or pecked. This image suggests that the entire family is in panic, seeking refuge in the wilderness. The person consulting the oracle is in an unstable situation, and the whole family should temporarily avoid conflict. Particular care should be taken during the journey to guard against verbal disputes and hidden dangers.

睽　懸□素餐，食非其任。失輿剝廬，休坐徙居。（頤之益）

The divination indicates that the person is in a position of authority but is not fulfilling their duties, thus receiving salary without performing work. The "Book of Poetry, Wei Wind, Cutting檀" criticizes this as "not eating without working." The person's position and the benefits they receive are not in harmony, eventually leading to the loss of their house and property, as described in the "Zhou Changes, Book of Changes, Upper Nine" which states "the small person loses their house." The person can only stop and seek another place to live. This situation applies to the person who holds an official position but does nothing, ultimately being dismissed. The diviner should be diligent and responsible; otherwise, both position and property will be lost.

蹇　歡欣九子，俱見大喜。攜提福至，王孫是富。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Trustworthiness) and the trigram Jian (Obstruction), nine children are filled with joy and happiness, encountering great good fortune together. They bring blessings, and the noble son becomes affluent. The owner of this forest has a thriving family, celebrating together. Though the situation is named Obstruction, in reality it brings great auspiciousness. The person consulting the oracle will experience good fortune at home, with benefits to the descendants. It is advisable to widely gather auspicious connections and share in the joy together.

解　伯夷叔齊，貞廉之師。以德防患，憂禍不存。（革之否，歸妹之臨，節之益）

The interpretation of the hexagram Zhong Fu (Trust in the Center). Boyi and Shuqi are exemplars of firm integrity and purity, renouncing their kingdom and leaving it behind, as recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: Biography of Boyi." They were able to prevent troubles through virtue, so worries and calamities did not arise. This person uses integrity and virtue to resolve difficulties. The one seeking divination should maintain a clear mind and adhere to righteousness, avoiding contention and greed. Current difficulties will naturally dissipate, which is a favorable omen for self-cultivation and avoiding misfortune.

損　雄聖伏名，人匿麟驚。走鳳飛北，亂潰未息。（否之大過，剝之臨）

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center), there is a loss. Outstanding heroes, sages, and wise men hide their names and remain anonymous; virtuous people retreat and conceal themselves, even the qilin (mythical beast) is startled. The phoenix flies northward in haste, and chaos and collapse have not yet ceased. This indicates that the person in question is a virtuous person who avoids the world, and the situation is still unsettled. Those who divinate should be in a state of turmoil and confusion; they should conceal their talents and hide their tracks, observing the situation calmly. They must not display their abilities in a time of chaos.

益　久鰥無偶，思配織女。求其非望，自令寡處。

The divination indicates that the person's aspirations are beyond their actual capabilities. They have been single for a long time without a spouse, yet they foolishly desire to marry the celestial weaver girl from heaven. What they seek is not within their rightful expectations, and the result will only be continued loneliness. This suggests that the person has unrealistic desires and is chasing something unattainable. The seeker's ambitions exceed their own circumstances, and only by lowering their expectations and choosing realistically can they achieve success.

夬　破亡之國，天所不福，難以止息。

The divination indicates that the state has already fallen into ruin and destruction, and Heaven no longer bestows its blessings. The chaos cannot be calmed. This omen signifies that the situation is beyond recovery, and the affairs upon which the diviner relies have reached their end. Continuing to struggle is in vain. It is advisable to make a decisive decision to withdraw and seek another path, which is the best course of action.

姤　老慵多欲，弊政為賊。阿房驪山，子嬰失國。

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center) corresponds to Gou (Encounter). A person aged and weary yet still indulging in desires, corrupt policies become harmful to the people; grand projects like the Afang Palace and the骊 Mountain mausoleum eventually lead to the loss of the empire under Ziying. This is recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: The Life of Qin Shi Huang." This case shows that a ruler's indulgence in luxury exhausts the foundation, passing on to the later generations and leading to downfall. Those who divinate should restrain desires and stop wastefulness; otherwise, they will ruin their family and business.

萃　三羖六牂，相隨俱行。迷入空澤，經涉虎廬。為所傷賊，死於牙腹。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center) and Cui (Gathering), three male sheep and six female sheep travel together, get lost and enter an open marsh, then pass through a tiger's den and are finally bitten and killed by the tiger. This is a great凶 (dangerous) omen, indicating that those who travel far in company may mistakenly enter dangerous places. Those who cast the divination should beware of blindly following others on a journey, especially entering remote mountains and marshes. It is advisable to stay in densely populated areas.

升　噬囁□嚾，昧冥相搏。多言少實，語無成事。（明夷之豫，謙之乾）

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust), people speak much but act little, quarreling and fighting in the dark without reaching any agreement. This indicates that the matter under consideration is filled with empty words and confusion, with arguments going back and forth without result. The person consulting the oracle should turn words into actions; otherwise, endless discussion will lead to nothing.

困　舞陽漸離，擊築善歌。慕丹之義，為燕荊軻。陰謀不遂，霍目死亡，功名何施。

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust) indicates a situation of being trapped. Qin Wuyang and Gao Jianli, one following along and the other playing the zhu and singing, admired the righteousness of Yan Prince Dan, and thus there was Jing Ke, the one who went to Yan to carry out an assassination. The secret plan failed, and he died with wide eyes, how could there be any talk of achievements? This is recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: Biographies of the Assassins." This situation is extremely dangerous, indicating a desperate gamble leading to failure and death. Those who cast the divination should beware of taking risks.

井　尹氏伯奇，父子分離。無罪被辜，長舌為災。

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust) corresponds to a well. Yin Jifu and his son Boqi were separated as father and son. Boqi was innocent but suffered a false accusation, all due to the slanderous words of his stepmother. The Book of Songs, Great Ya, Zhan Ying says, "A woman with a long tongue is the cause of calamity." This situation involves someone being wrongfully accused and exiled, leading to separation from family. The diviner should beware of slanderous words from women around him, and when faced with false accusations, he should clarify the truth based on facts.

革　五精亂行，政逆皇恩。湯武赫怒，天伐利域。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu, the change occurs. The five stars move in disorder, and the government's decrees contradict the grace of heaven. King Tang of Shang and King Wu of Zhou thus become greatly enraged, and they carry out a righteous campaign in accordance with heaven's will, achieving success wherever they go. The commentary of the Zhou Changes (I Ching) on the hexagram Ge says, "Tang and Wu brought about a revolution, following heaven's will and responding to the people's desires." This indicates that the heavens are issuing a warning, and a just army rises up. If the diviner is engaged in removing evils, he may expect his actions to be just and his endeavors to succeed.

鼎　西曆玉山，東入玉門。登上福堂，飲萬歲漿。

The divination indicates a great auspiciousness. Traveling westward, one passes through the Jade Mountains where the Queen Mother of the West resides, and returning eastward, one enters the Jade Gate Pass. One ascends to the hall of good fortune and drinks the elixir of longevity that grants a thousand years of life. This forest is highly auspicious, signifying a journey that spans far and wide yet ultimately returns to a place of blessing. Those who engage in travel or journeys will find benefit in both directions. They will also experience joy in prolonging their years and receiving blessings. This is a favorable omen for both travel and health preservation.

震　行觸忌諱，與司命忤。執囚束縛，拘制於吏，迷人有喜。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu, the trigram Zhen (Thunder) indicates that actions have violated taboos and clashed with the Director of Destiny. As a result, the person is arrested, bound, and subjected to official control. However, those who are misled by such matters may find it pleasant. This person has incurred misfortune by violating taboos and is now imprisoned. The one interpreting the oracle should avoid taboos and legal restrictions; if they transgress, they will face imprisonment.

艮　機父不賢，朝多讒臣。君失其政，保我久貧。

The trigram Zhongfu (Middle Trust) combines with Gen (Mountain). The father figure in authority is not wise, and there are many slanderers in the court. The ruler thus loses control, and I can only endure poverty for a long time. This indicates that the superior lacks a wise leader, while the lower ranks are filled with petty people, and the virtuous cannot be employed. The person consulting the oracle is in a situation where power is dispersed, so it is advisable to remain poor and content, and not to strive for fame and recognition.

漸　三人俱行，北求大牂。孟長病足，倩季負囊。柳下之貞，不失我邦。

In the hexagram Zhong Fu, three people travel together to the north to seek a fat ewe. The eldest has a foot ailment and cannot walk, so he asks his younger brother to carry the luggage. By upholding the integrity of Li Yu (the virtuous man), he ultimately does not lose his state. This forest's master, with his brothers supporting each other and maintaining righteousness, shows that although the fortune-teller may face minor setbacks, with the help of others, the foundation remains unharmed.

歸妹　鵠思其雄，欲隨鳳東。順理羽翼，出次日中。雖留比邑，復歸其室。（益之觀，需之離，豐之泰）

The hexagram Zhong Fu follows Gui Mei. A female swan thinks of its mate and wishes to follow the phoenix to the east; it arranges its wings in order and departs at noon; although it stays for a while in a nearby city, it eventually returns to its nest. This omen indicates that the person in question will leave but return, having a fixed mind. The person sought by the diviner, though delayed, will ultimately return; one should patiently await.

豐　常德自如，不逢禍災。（「如」一作「加」）

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center) indicates that by maintaining constant virtue and acting with ease and composure, one will not encounter calamities or misfortunes. This omen suggests that the person in question possesses sufficient virtue to ensure self-protection and enjoys peace and security. The one seeking divination should simply act with integrity, refrain from improper desires, and the affairs before them will naturally proceed smoothly. This is a straightforward omen indicating that adhering to the norm leads to auspicious outcomes.

旅　白鵠遊望，君子以寧。履德不愆，福祿來成。

The divination indicates a journey of sincerity and faithfulness. A swan moves gracefully and looks far ahead, allowing the gentleman to find peace. Practicing virtue and righteousness without error brings blessings and official favor. This omen suggests that the person is upright and virtuous, attaining good fortune through moral conduct. Even if the diviner is traveling in a foreign land, as long as they uphold virtue without flaw, they will naturally find stability and gradually gain fame and benefits.

巽　膚敏之德，發憤忘食。虜豹擒越，為王得福。（大有之困）

The trigram Zun (Wind) in Zhongfu indicates a person with beautiful and quick virtue. The Book of Poetry, Great Ya, King Wen says, "The Yin scholars are skilful and prompt." He is diligent and strives with great effort, even forgetting to sleep and eat, as mentioned in the Analects, Chapter 7, "He was so eager to learn that he forgot to eat." Thus, he captures the leopard and falcon, subdues the Yue people, and brings blessings to the king. This person is diligent in building achievements and overcoming enemies to receive rewards. The diviner also exerts himself and can expect to achieve success and gain official favor.

兌　百足俱行，相輔為強。三聖翼事，王室寵光，國富民康。（屯之履）

In the hexagram Zhong Fu (Middle Trust), the trigram Dui (Lake) is present. A centipede with many legs moves together, supporting each other to become strong and healthy; three wise men assist the king in his affairs, bringing glory and prosperity to the royal house, wealth to the country, and peace to the people. This is a great auspicious omen, indicating collective effort and harmonious cooperation between ruler and ministers. Those who seek divination should unite the strength of many to accomplish great undertakings; attempting to do everything alone will be difficult to manage thoroughly.

渙　生不逢時，困且多憂。年老衰極，中心悲愁。

The hexagram Zhong Fu (Faithful Center) meets Huan (Dispersal). One is born in an unsuitable era, experiencing hardship and much sorrow; when old age comes and decline reaches its peak, the heart is full of grief. This line indicates a time of misfortune and a bleak old age. Those who encounter this situation should not expect to achieve much, should act within their capacity, and should plan for their later years in advance. They should not waste their energy on hopeless matters.