The Forest of Zhongfu (the 64th hexagram Zhongfu)

豐　反鼻岐頭，三寡獨居。

Small Overcoming leads to Great Abundance. A venomous snake raises its nose and lifts its head, with a forked snake head, appearing terrifying; three widows live alone without support. This indicates that a dangerous creature is present in the forest, and the person seeking divination has a hidden harmful influence nearby, lacking assistance. One should be cautious and take care to protect oneself, avoid being alone in dangerous places, and should associate with many people.

旅　衣裳顛倒，為王來呼。成就東周，封受大福。

Small Overcoming Journey. The clothes are worn upside down, as mentioned in the "Book of Songs · Qi Wind · Eastern Light Not Yet Bright" with the phrase "upside down clothes," due to the king's urgent summons and hasty rising. Eventually, it led to the foundation of the Eastern Zhou dynasty, receiving a grant and inheriting great blessings. This master was summoned and appointed, gaining favor in a hurried manner. Although the diviner acted hastily and appeared somewhat disarrayed, it was precisely the opportunity for establishing meritorious deeds and receiving a grant.

巽　飛不遠去，還歸故處，興事多悔。

The hexagram Xiao Guo (Minor Overstep) corresponds to Xun (Wind). The movement is not far and then returns to the original place; at this time, initiating affairs often leads to regret. This indicates that the strength is insufficient, and one tends to go away and return again. The person seeking divination finds that their intended affairs exceed their current capabilities. It is better to remain in the present situation and not force action, as doing so will bring regret. It is advisable to strengthen one's strength before attempting further endeavors.

兌　含血走禽，不曉五音。匏巴鼓瑟，不悅於心。

Small Overcoming comes to Lake. Blood-containing beasts and birds cannot understand the five tones. Hu Ba played the zither and instinctively made fish leap out of water to listen, as recorded in "Xunzi · Encouragement of Learning." Now, if one plays for them, they do not feel joyful in their hearts. This is like the master playing the zither for the ox, and the ability to understand music is rare. The one divining has skills that are not understood by the other party, so it is advisable to seek another person who can appreciate it, and not to waste effort in front of those who are ignorant.

渙　求玉獲石，非心所欲，祝願不得。

Small Excess leads to Dispersal. One seeks a fine jade but receives a stubborn stone, not what the heart desires. Prayers and vows go unanswered. The one who seeks finds not what is desired, wishes unfulfilled. The diviner's current plans do not align with their original intent. It is advisable to lower expectations or change the goal; striving forcefully only leads to futile effort.

節　山崩谷絕，大福盡歇。涇渭失紀，玉石既已。

The hexagram of Small Crossing. The mountain peak collapses, the deep valley is cut off, and great fortune comes to an end. The waters of Jing and Wei lose their usual clarity and turbidity, making jade and stone indistinguishable; everything comes to a halt. This is a great凶 (misfortune), indicating the collapse of the fundamental foundation, and the failure to distinguish the virtuous from the foolish. The situation upon which the diviner relies has been exhausted; one should start completely anew, and should not expect the old situation to return.

中孚　雜目懼怒，不安其居。散漫府藏，無有利得。

In the hexagram of Xiao Guo, the line of Zhong Fu appears. Many eyes are looking around, with fear and anger, leading to an unstable situation. The stored treasures in the treasury are scattered and lost, yielding no benefit. The owner of the forest has an unsettled mind and is losing wealth. The one casting the divination should first stabilize the dwelling and the people's hearts, then organize the treasury. Otherwise, both inside and outside will scatter, and all accumulated wealth will be lost.

既濟　眾邪充側，鳳凰折翼。微子復北，去其邦國。

The hexagram Xiao Guo follows Ji Ji. Many wicked and cunning people are surrounding the person, causing the phoenix to break its wings. Weizi had to leave northward and abandon his own state. Weizi's departure from Yin is recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: The Family of Song Weizi." This situation indicates that petty people are in power and the virtuous are frustrated and have left. Those who are divining find themselves in a situation surrounded by small people; they should withdraw and seek safety early, and should not struggle forcefully.

未濟　六月采芑，征伐無道。張仲季叔，孝友飲酒。（離之坎）

Small Overcoming followed by Not Yet Reached. In June, the army went out, gathering wild gourds, to attack the wicked enemies. The poems "Sixth Month" and "Gathering Wild Gourds" from the Book of Songs both praise the military campaigns of King Xuan of Zhou's revival. After returning victorious, Zhang Zhong and his brothers gathered for a joyful banquet, showing filial piety and friendly relations. The final verse of "Sixth Month" says, "Who is here, Zhang Zhong, who is filial and friendly." This refers to Lin Dagji, who is renowned for his military campaigns and the joy of victory and celebration. The person divining this has a successful military campaign and a harmonious family.

既濟　元兔捐掌，與足相視。證訊詰問，詿情自侶。死誣難告，口為身禍。

After the completion of the hexagram of "Already Completed," the big rabbit has abandoned its front paw, and can only look at its hind legs face to face; being summoned for interrogation and questioned repeatedly, its testimony becomes entangled, and in the end, it pulls itself into trouble. Dying in innocence but having nowhere to appeal, its mouth becomes the source of misfortune. This situation indicates a great凶 (misfortune) in litigation, leading to being implicated by testimony and being unable to clear one's name. Those who interpret the divination should be cautious in speech, and those involved in litigation must be careful in their wording.

乾　遊駒石門，騄耳安全。受福西鄰，歸隱玉泉。

After the completion of the journey, the trigram Qian (Heaven) appears. A small horse roams around the Stone Gate, while the noble horse Lu'er remains safe and sound. It receives blessings from the western neighboring state and then retreats to the Jade Spring area. Lu'er is one of the eight famous horses of King Mu of Zhou, mentioned in the "Records of the Travels of King Mu." This forest indicates a safe journey, gaining blessings, and knowing when to retreat. The person seeking divination will have a safe travel and gain something, and after achieving success, it is advisable to withdraw and hide early.

坤　陽春草生，萬物風興。君子所居，禍災不到。

After the completion of the journey, the earth element (Kun) is present. In the early spring season, all grasses sprout and all things rise with the wind; the place where the gentleman resides is free from calamity. This forest is very auspicious, indicating harmonious weather and clear atmosphere, with a secure dwelling. The person consulting the oracle is in a favorable situation for growth, and has virtue to protect themselves. All matters concerning settling down and starting a business will proceed smoothly.

屯　人無足法，紱除牛出。雄走羊驚，不失其家。

After the completion of the journey, there is no established precedent for human affairs. The seal is removed, and the ox is led out. Public cattle run about, and the flock is startled, but fortunately the family property is not lost. This indicates that the master of the forest has not established proper rules, and the situation is unstable, yet the foundation still remains. The person consulting the oracle currently finds the people's hearts restless; as long as they hold on to their existing resources, although there may be disturbances, the family will not be ruined.

蒙　太山上奔，變見太傲。陳吾廢忽，作為禍患。

After the completion of the great journey, the situation is one of confusion. He rushes up to the peak of Mount Tai, strange changes appear, and his attitude is extremely arrogant. He accuses me of neglect and carelessness, eventually leading to calamity. This person is the master of the forest, arrogant and self-important, neglecting affairs and causing mistakes. The one making the divination should be especially humble and cautious when in a position of power. Once arrogance and negligence set in, calamity arises from this.

需　乘龍光土，先暗後明。燎獵大得，太師以昌。

The hexagram Ji Ji indicates a need for action. A dragon shines over the land, first bringing darkness then transforming into brightness; setting fires for hunting leads to great harvests, thus bringing prosperity to the master of the forest. Jiang Taigong assisted the Zhou dynasty and achieved success, as recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: The Family of Qi Taigong." This situation signifies a transition from darkness to light, with the assistant gaining power and success. The person seeking the divination may currently be in a state of obscurity, but after waiting, there will be great gains. It is advisable to be patient and wait for the right time.

訟　羊頭兔足，羸瘦少肉。漏囊貯粟，利無所得。（渙之艮，剝之恆）

The divination indicates a situation where the dispute is already resolved. A sheep's head paired with a rabbit's feet, weak and with little meat; using a leaky bag to carry millet, seeking profit but ending up with nothing. This suggests that the person's form and substance are not in harmony, and all accumulated resources are leaking away. Even if the fortune-teller has income, it cannot be retained. It is advisable to first mend the leaks and eliminate internal waste, otherwise, despite constant struggle, one will still end up empty-handed.

師　因禍受福，喜盈其室。螟蟲不作，君無苛惑。

The army of the Hexagram 60 (Ji Ji) is one that has suffered a calamity but has gained blessings instead, with joy filling the house. Locusts no longer cause harm, and the ruler has no harsh or doubtful policies. This is a great auspicious sign, indicating a transformation from misfortune to good fortune, with clarity both inside and outside. The diviner's current difficulties are actually turning points, and both external troubles and internal doubts are dispelled, allowing for safe and steady progress.

比　舜升大禹，石夷之野。徵詣黃門，拜治水土。（乾之中孚，豫之小畜，兌之萃）

In the hexagram of Ji Ji, the example of Yu the Great being promoted by Yu the Great in the wilderness of Shi Yi and summoned to the Yellow Gate to be entrusted with the responsibility of managing water and soil is recorded in the Book of Documents, the Shun Classic. This hexagram indicates that a virtuous and capable person will be recognized by those in authority and entrusted with important responsibilities. If the person seeking divination possesses genuine talent and learning, they may expect to be promoted beyond conventional standards by those in higher positions. This is a favorable omen for those seeking advancement in their careers.

小畜　烏子鵲雛，常與母居。顧類群聚，不離其巢。

After the completion of the journey, the small domestication indicates that the young of crows and the young of magpies often live with their mothers; they look after their own kind and gather together, never leaving their nests. This forest symbolizes mother and child relying on each other and relatives gathering together. The diviner should remain at home and stay with relatives. All matters concerning living together and gathering are auspicious, while separation leads to loss of protection.

履　夷羿所射，發輒有獲。增加倉鷹，雙鳥俱得。

The hexagram of Already Completed and the hexagram of Footsteps. The Eastern夷 (夷) people were skilled in archery, and Hou Yi shot an arrow and immediately obtained something. Moreover, with the help of a sea eagle, two birds were obtained at once. The story of Hou Yi shooting the suns is recorded in the "Ben Jing Xun" section of the "Huainanzi." This indicates great fortune, suggesting that one can achieve success in a single effort and also gain unexpected benefits. Those who seek to take action should be decisive.

泰　晨風文翰，火舉就溫。昧過我邑，羿無所得。（小畜之革，大過之豫，大壯之震）

After the completion of the great journey, the morning wind bird with colorful feathers flies high, heading towards warm places. When the sky is dim, it passes over my city, and even the skilled archer Hou Yi fails to catch it. The master of this forest is soaring high and going far, beyond human control. Whatever the diviner wished to retain or capture has already slipped away. It is advisable to follow its natural course and not to force matters.

否　六喜三福，南至歡國。與喜同樂，嘉我潔德。

After the completion of the journey, there are six layers of joy and three layers of good fortune. Going south leads to a land of happiness. Sharing in the joy and celebration, all people praise my pure virtue. This forest is very auspicious, indicating repeated blessings and praise for virtue. The one who divines this should go south and find joy, and due to upright conduct, gain the respect of many, achieving both reputation and reality.

同人　斗龍股折，日就遂明。自外為主，弟伐其兄。

After the completion of the great union, a dragon engaged in conflict broke its thigh, and the sun gradually became clear. A person coming from outside took the lead, and the younger brother attacked his elder brother. This omen indicates that the strong will be defeated and outsiders will gain power, with close relatives turning against each other. The one making the divination should beware of outsiders seizing power and brothers quarreling. It is advisable to establish clearly the status of the legitimate heir early on to calm the conflict.

大有　蒙慶受福，有所獲得，不利出域。

After the completion of the great success, there is a fortunate reception and inheritance of blessings, leading to some gains. However, it is not advisable to go beyond one's own domain. This indicates that staying within one's territory is auspicious, while going outside is not. The benefits obtained by the person seeking divination are within their hometown and their own profession. By maintaining stability, they can ensure abundance. Traveling far may reduce the blessings, so it is better to carry out activities locally.

謙　蠻夷戎狄，太陰所積。涸水冱寒，君子不存。

After the completion of the great journey, there is humility. The lands of the four directions, the barbarians, the Hu, the Rong, and the Di, are places where extreme yin energy gathers; the water cities are dry and frozen, with cold energy solidified and sealed. The gentleman does not wish to stay in such places. This forest is the master of extreme cold and desolate regions, places not tolerable for human beings. Those who predict should not go to distant and bitterly cold places. If one insists on staying there, both body and mind will suffer damage. One should choose warm and comfortable places to settle.

豫　畏昏潛處，候時昭明。卒遭白日，為榮祿主。

After the completion of the great work, there is ease and joy. One fears darkness and hides away, waiting quietly for the time when the daylight returns; finally encountering bright daylight, becoming the master who enjoys honor and official rank. This person waits in concealment for the right time before emerging to success. The one consulting the oracle should now be modest and restrained, for when brightness comes, he will naturally rise to prominence. Do not advance rashly in the darkness.

隨　水流趍下，欲至東海。求我所有，買鮪與鯉。（姤之否，損之需，益之無妄）

After the completion of the journey, the water flows to the lower places, heading all the way to the East Sea; seeking what I need, I buy the tuna and the crucian carp. The owner of this forest follows the natural course, taking what is needed by each. The diviner should follow the trend, not go against the current, and in all matters of trade and purchase, everything will go as desired. This is a favorable omen of smooth success, indicating profit gained by following the natural flow.

蠱　冠帶南行，與福喜期。徼為嘉國，釋為逢時。

After the completion of the journey, the person is properly dressed and wearing a cap, heading south to meet with good fortune and joyful events. The distant land has become a prosperous place, and inner worries are resolved, which is exactly the right time. This person is now properly grooming himself and heading south to gain blessings. The one who is divining should approach the matter seriously and go out to seek opportunities. The old troubles will be resolved, and the timing is most favorable.

臨　莎雞振羽，為季門戶。新沐彈冠，仲父悅喜。

After the completion of the hexagram, the situation is like the arrival of a superior force. The cricket shakes its wings and makes a sound; the Book of Songs, in the section of the seventh month of the state of Bin, says, "In June, the cricket shakes its wings," which signifies the time when the younger brother supports the family. After washing one's head, one removes the dust from the hat; the Songs of the Fisher Man mentions, "One who has just washed his head must brush his hat," which brings joy to the elder uncle. This indicates that the master of the forest is making himself neat and renewed, and the family has a reliable heir. The diviner may expect to rise and establish a career, and the elders will be satisfied.

觀　結衿流溺，遭讒桎梏。周召述職，身受大福。

Observing the hexagram of Ji Ji. Though one fastens their robe tightly, they are still overwhelmed by the water; they also face slander and are subjected to punishment. Fortunately, Zhou Gong and Zhao Gong explain their duties and mediate in between, eventually enabling them to escape difficulties and receive great blessings. This indicates that the person in question first encounters slander and trouble, but later receives help from a nobleman. The person divining this may face imprisonment, but ultimately will be cleared of suspicion and gain benefits from the misfortune.

噬嗑　田鼠野雞，意常欲□。拘制籠檻，不得動搖。（夬之謙，需之隨，巽之隨）

After the completion of the hexagram, the situation is like the cracking of a bone. In the fields, mice and wild pheasants in the wilderness always think of breaking free and running away; yet they are confined within cages and fences, unable even to move a step. This indicates that the person in question is constrained and restricted, with their aspirations conflicting with their circumstances. The one who is divining also finds themselves unable to escape or change their situation at this time. It is advisable to endure and wait for the right moment. Any reckless action will only tighten the bonds further.

賁　居華山巔，遊觀浮雲。有雨不濡，心樂無憂。

The hexagram of Completion and Ornamentation. The person resides at the peak of Mount Hua, calmly watching the passing clouds; even if there is rain, it cannot wet them, and their heart is filled with joy without worry. This person is high and far from harm, living in a detached and comfortable manner. The one seeking divination is in a lofty position, where storms and rains cannot intrude. They should enjoy their current situation and need not involve themselves in the disturbances below.

剝　傾倚將顛，亂不能存。英雄作業，家困無年。

After the completion of the hexagram, there is a situation of decay. The structure is leaning and unstable, about to collapse, and chaos has reached a point where it can no longer be maintained. Even if there are heroes who wish to restore their achievements, the household is in hardship, and it is impossible to sustain even for a year. This is a great凶 (misfortune), indicating that the foundation is about to collapse and the strength is insufficient to prevent it. Those who cast the divination should withdraw early and avoid further loss. Do not make a desperate gamble in a certain defeat.

復　心願所喜，乃今逢時。保我利福，不離兵革。（兌之蹇）

After the completion of the journey, the heart's desired and cherished things are now coming to pass; I have preserved my benefits and good fortune, but I have not yet escaped from warfare and conflict. This oracle indicates that the person's wishes are fulfilled, yet dangers remain. The one who seeks fortune may achieve their goal, but must guard the result amidst disputes. One should remain cautious and prepared for danger, and must not become complacent.

旡妄　靈龜陸處，盤桓失所。阿衡退耕，夏封於國。

The hexagram Ji Ji indicates no recklessness. The divine turtle is trapped on land, wandering without direction and losing its dwelling; the wise minister I Yin returns to the fields to till the soil, while the Xia dynasty appoints another to rule the state. This suggests that the ruler is a virtuous person who has lost his position and retreated to the countryside. The person seeking divination is currently in an unsuitable position and should temporarily withdraw and remain cautious, waiting for the rise of a wise ruler. Remaining in a forced position would only lead to difficulties.

大畜　弱水之右，有西王母。生不知老，與天相保。不利行旅。

After the great accumulation of the situation of the Completion trigram, in the west of the weak water lives the Queen Mother of the West, recorded in the Classic of Mountains and Seas as holding the elixir for immortality. The people there live without knowing aging and share the longevity of heaven. However, it is not favorable for traveling abroad. This forest is favorable for long life and peaceful residence but is adverse to long journeys. Those who divinate should remain quiet and stay at home, thus gaining the blessing of prolonging life. If they go out far away, they will lose their security.

頤　抱瑰求金，日暮坐吟。終身卒歲，竟無成功。

After achieving success, one continues to indulge in indulgence. Carrying inferior jade to exchange for gold, sitting and sighing until dusk; wasting a lifetime and a year, yet never succeeding. This person is foolishly seeking something better, wasting his efforts in vain. The thing the fortune-teller holds is not worth the price he seeks. Holding onto it for a long time without selling is just a waste of time. He should change his approach early.

大過　言笑未畢，憂來暴卒。身加檻纜，囚繫縛束。

After the great success of the Hexagram of Completion, laughter has not yet ceased when sudden worries arise; chains and ropes are added to the body, and one is imprisoned and bound. This is a great凶 (dangerous) omen, indicating that joy can turn to sorrow suddenly, and misfortune can come abruptly. Those who cast the divination should remain cautious during moments of joy, especially guarding against calamity caused by careless speech leading to legal troubles.

坎　望幸不至，文章未成。王子逐兔，犬踦不得。（未濟之兌）

The hexagram is Kan in the state of completion. The master of the forest looks forward to the king's visit but he does not come; the splendid writings remain unfinished. The prince chases a wild hare, but the hunting dog is lame and ultimately fails to catch it. This indicates that the master's expectations are unfulfilled, and his achievements are only half realized. The person the diviner hopes for does not arrive, and the matter he seeks is lacking one crucial step. It is advisable to first address one's own shortcomings rather than remain idle waiting for opportunity.

離　震悚恐懼，多所畏忌。行道留難，不可以步。

The hexagram of Ji Ji (Completion) with the trigram Li (Fire) indicates a state of fear and anxiety, with a sense of being constantly on edge and cautious in all actions. There are many obstacles on the path, making it difficult to take even a single step forward. This suggests a situation where internal timidity meets external resistance, making progress extremely difficult. The person seeking the oracle is currently burdened with excessive worries and is unable to move forward. It is advisable to first calm the mind and remove the obstacles, as forcing oneself to move forward will only result in further difficulty.

咸　雄狐綏綏，登山崔嵬。昭告顯功，大福允興。

After the completion of the great work, the situation is like the "Salty Spring" (Xian). A strong fox moves calmly and alone, as the "Book of Songs, Qi Wind, Nan Shan" says, "A strong fox moves gracefully." Climbing up the lofty mountain, one proclaims the illustrious achievements to heaven, and great blessings thus truly arise. This is Lin Da Ji, indicating the accomplishment of great deeds and the public announcement of them to heaven, leading to the flourishing of blessings. The person seeking divination will have their achievements made known to all, and both reputation and fortune will come together.

恆　火起吾後，喜炙我廡。倉龍含水，深潠吾柱，雖憂無咎。

The hexagram of Already Completed indicates a situation of constant stability. A fire starts behind me and seems about to spread to my veranda; fortunately, the Azure Dragon brings water and thoroughly sprays my pillars. Although there was a moment of anxiety, no actual disaster occurred. This indicates that the person in question is saved from a fire-related danger, experiencing worry without actual peril. The one divining, though encountering a sudden problem, will have help and resolution. One should remain calm and not be overly anxious.

遯　危坐至暮，請求不得。膏澤不降，政戾民忒。（剝之頤，需之頤，漸之坎）

After the completion of the journey, he sits quietly waiting until night falls, but the request has not been granted. Grace and favor do not descend, and the policies are erratic, causing the people to be at a loss. The master of the forest has no one to appeal to, and there is a blockage between superiors and inferiors. The person seeking divination has difficulty getting a response, so it is advisable to temporarily withdraw from seeking and look for another way to achieve success.

大壯　孟春和氣，鷹隼搏鷙，眾雀憂潰。

After the great completion, there comes the strong and vigorous. At the beginning of spring, the weather is mild and warm, but eagles and hawks fiercely attack, causing the many small birds to become anxious and scatter. In this forest, the strong assert their power, while the weak are frightened and disperse. If the person consulting the oracle is in a position of strength, then taking action will surely bring success. If one is weak, one must take early precautions and avoid appearing at the time when the fierce birds are in the sky.

晉　緩法長奸，不能理冤。沉湎失節，君受其患。

After the completion of the journey, the state is in a state of disorder. Lenient laws encourage wickedness, and wrongful cases remain unaddressed. The ruler indulges in wine and women, losing control, and thus suffers misfortune. This indicates that the ruler has neglected laws and indulged in excess, leading to calamity. The interpreter should restore order and maintain discipline; otherwise, wickedness will grow, wrongs will remain unresolved, and ultimately, they will turn against the ruler himself.

明夷　魚鱉貪餌，死於網釣。受危因寵，為身殃咎。

After the completion of the great crossing, the situation is like the darkening of the sun. Fish and turtles desire the bait and end up dying in the net and hook; people also fall into danger because of favor, bringing calamity and blame upon themselves. This oracle warns that those who seek profit and favor may ultimately bring about their own death. The immediate benefits seen by the diviner are like the bait on the hook, and one should be cautious of the hidden dangers. Especially when favored, one should be even more careful and restrain oneself.

家人　金精耀怒，帶劍過午。徘徊高原，宿于山谷。兩虎相距，弓矢滿野。（震之豫）

After the completion of the hexagram Family, the planet Jupiter shines brightly and angrily, with a man wearing a sword passing by at noon; he wanders on high ground and sleeps in a valley at night; two tigers face each other, bows and arrows are scattered across the plains. The planet Jupiter governs military affairs, as mentioned in the "Records of the Grand Historian: Celestial Offices." This situation is extremely dangerous for military matters, indicating conflict between strong enemies, with the person involved caught in the middle. Those who consult the oracle should avoid places of conflict and not intervene between two powerful forces.

睽　四目相望，精近同光，並坐鼓簧。

After the completion of the journey, there is a situation of divergence. Four eyes look at each other, their spirits close and their radiance united; sitting side by side, they play the sheng and the pan flute together. This signifies that the person in the forest has mutual affection and shared joy, even though the name suggests discord, the reality is harmony. The diviner and the person may have differences, but ultimately they will support each other. Matters concerning friendship and union can be expected to be harmonious.

蹇　茹芝餌黃，飲酒玉漿。與神流通，長無憂凶。

After overcoming difficulties, one may cultivate spiritual herbs like lingzhi and consume huangjing, drink fine wine and jade elixirs, thus connecting with the divine and remaining free from worries and dangers. This indicates a person who maintains health and attains spiritual enlightenment, with both body and mind in harmony. Even if the fortune is in a difficult situation, as long as one takes care of the body and mind, remains pure in thought and desires little, one can avoid troubles and achieve longevity and health, which is a favorable omen for prolonging life and avoiding illness.

解　求獐嘉鄉，惡蛇不行。豳岐口還，復反其床。

The interpretation of the "Already Completed" hexagram indicates that one goes to a pleasant place to search for deer and wild boar, but hesitates to proceed further due to fear of venomous snakes. One then returns from the area around Binxian and Qishan, and goes back to one's own bed. This shows that the person in charge is afraid of difficulties and stops halfway, going back again. The matter the diviner is trying to accomplish is interrupted by obstacles, and although returning to the original place brings no gain, it also avoids danger.

損　天門地戶，幽冥不觀，不知所在。（「觀」又作「睹」）

After the completion of the journey, the loss occurs. The gate of Heaven and the door of Earth are dark and deep, nothing can be seen, and it is unknown where exactly one is. This forest signifies a future of obscurity and unclear direction. The person seeking divination cannot currently determine the way forward. It is advisable to delay decision-making and remain calm, waiting for clarity. Blindly searching will only lead to greater confusion.

益　跛足息肩，有所忌難。金城鐵郭，以銅為關。藩屏息衛，安止無患。（遯之旅）

After the completion of the journey, the benefit is gained. A lame person removes the burden from his shoulders, as there are dangerous obstacles ahead. Fortunately, there are strong fortifications, gates made of bronze, and layers of barriers and fences that protect him safely, without any harm. This master of the forest knows his own insufficiency and guards himself by holding to the advantages. The one making the divination should assess his strength and stop at a safe point, reinforcing defenses. If he holds fast, there will be no worries; if he advances, there will be danger.

夬　三雁俱飛，欲歸稻池。經涉山澤，為矢所射。

After the completion of the journey, the decision is made. Three large geese fly up together, intending to return to a pond where rice grows; along the way, they pass through mountains and swamps, but are shot by flying arrows. The owner of the forest faces danger on the return journey and sustains injury on the way. The person seeking divination has a clear destination, but the path is hidden with danger. It is advisable to choose a safe route and avoid open areas that are easily targeted.

姤　濟深難渡，濡我衣褲。王子善濯，決無他故。

After the completion of the journey, the encounter is like water being too deep to cross, causing my clothes and pants to get wet. Fortunately, the prince is good at washing, so there is no further disaster. This person, though involved in a dangerous situation and stained, eventually gets cleared. The one who makes the prediction may suffer some minor loss and reputation, but later can be cleared, avoiding major trouble. One should remain calm and deal with it appropriately.

萃　飲酒醉飽，跳趨爭鬥。伯傷叔僵，東家治喪。（比之鼎，大畜之晉，益之蒙）

After the completion of the union, they drank until full and ate until satisfied, then rose up to fight each other. The elder brother was injured, the younger brother fell down, and as a result, the family to the east held a funeral. This is a great凶 (misfortune), indicating loss of control after drinking, and gatherings leading to disaster. Those who cast the divination should beware of excessive feasting, especially drunkenness and quarrels, to avoid a sudden tragedy, which may lead to loss of life.

升　跛躓未起，失利後市。蒙被殃咎，不得鹿子。

After the completion of the journey, the ascent is difficult. The person is lame and falls, unable to rise again, arriving late at the market and missing out on benefits. Instead, they suffer misfortune and blame, failing even to catch a small deer. The forest owner is unable to move easily and lags behind everywhere. The person seeking something is both delayed and clumsy. It is advisable to first improve their own shortcomings; otherwise, their actions will be too late, resulting in wasted effort.

困　辰次降婁，建星中堅。子無遠行，外顛霄陷，遂合訖終。

At the time of the completion of the journey, the sun and moon meet at the position of the constellation Jiaolou, and the star Jian is exactly in the middle of the sky and firm. At this time, you should not travel far, for going out will bring danger of falling or being injured. Only until the end will it bewith difficulty to come together. Jiaolou is one of the twelve constellations, as mentioned in the "Book of Han, the Records of the Laws and Calendars." This indicates that the weather is unfavorable for movement, and those who consult the oracle should stay at home; traveling far will surely lead to setbacks.

井　商風召寇，來呼外盜。間諜內應，與我爭鬥。殫己寶藏，主人不勝。

After the completion of the journey, the well is exhausted. Autumn winds have brought thieves, inviting outsiders to attack; there are also spies within to assist them, fighting against me. The family's treasures have been completely used up, and the master will ultimately not be able to win. This is a great凶 (dangerous) situation, indicating internal betrayal and collusion with external enemies, leading to loss of wealth and failure of people. Those who cast the divination should strictly investigate the internal affairs, prevent problems before they occur; otherwise, the family will be ruined.

革　甘露醴泉，太平機關。仁德感應，歲樂民安。

After the completion of the great transformation, sweet dew and sweet spring water are omens of universal peace; benevolent virtue resonates with heaven and earth, leading to abundant harvests and people's peace. This forest is auspicious, indicating that virtue will be rewarded, the seasons will be harmonious, and the years will be bountiful. Those who practice righteousness will naturally attract good results, ensuring peace for both family and state.

鼎　蔡仲子突，要門逐急。禍起子傷，弟伐其兄，鄭文不昌。

After the completion of the ritual, the state of Zheng experienced turmoil when Zi Zhong supported Duke Tu, who became Duke Li of Zheng, and they chased each other urgently at the city gate. This incident led to conflict, with the prince injured and his younger brother attacking his elder brother. As a result, the cultural virtue of Zheng declined. This event is recorded in the "Zuo Zhuan · Duke Huan's Eleventh Year." This situation indicates a struggle for succession among the heirs and conflict among siblings. The person interpreting the divination should promptly determine the proper status to prevent internal strife.