Libo

Qian's Forest (the 64th forest of the Qian hexagram)

Han (漢) · Jiao Yanshou (焦延壽) · Volume 7 / 71

Charting guides: Da Yan Yarrow Stalk Divination, Liu Yao Divination Chart

訟之損:爭訟不已,更相擊劍。張季弱口,被髮北走。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Loss. The dispute continues endlessly, and the parties even come to sword fights. Zhang Ji has a weak tongue and cannot argue his way out, so he only has to flee north with his hair loose. Loss means reduction; the longer the dispute, the greater the loss. This omen indicates being entangled in official troubles, being unable to defend oneself and suffering defeat, which is ominous.

訟之益:延頸望酒,不入我口。初喜後否,得利無有。

The hexagram of Strife changes into the hexagram of Gain. One stretches his neck hoping to drink, but the wine does not enter his mouth; at first he is happy, but later it turns to emptiness. It is said to be beneficial, yet there is nothing to gain. The hexagram of Gain originally signifies increase, but when something is desired but not obtained, gain becomes emptiness. This divination indicates empty expectation and something that is merely nominal, leading to misfortune.

訟之夬:被髮傾走,寇逐我後。亡失刀兵,身全不傷。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of决 (Decisive). One is seen with disheveled hair, fleeing in panic, with bandits chasing from behind; although weapons are lost, the body remains unharmed. Decisive signifies a decision to abandon something, and discarding possessions to preserve one's life is a wise decision. This omen indicates loss of wealth but no disaster, a moment of alarm without actual danger, beginning with adversity and ending with peace.

訟之姤:麒鳳所遊,安樂無憂。君子撫民,世代千秋。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Meeting. The place where qilin and phoenixes dwell is peaceful and joyful, free from worries. The gentleman nurtures the people, and his lineage continues for thousands of years. When qilin and phoenixes arrive together, ancient people regarded it as a sign of a sage king. Meeting refers to an unexpected encounter; when virtue is fully established, auspicious omens naturally appear. This omen indicates good governance, people's peace, and a long-lasting family lineage, which is very auspicious.

訟之萃:褰衣涉河,水深漬疲。賴幸舟子,濟脫無他。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Accumulation. One lifts up his clothes and wades through the water to cross the river, the water being deep enough to soak the body and causing great exhaustion; fortunately, a boatman comes to help, allowing one to cross safely without any further mishaps. Accumulation signifies gathering together; when collective strength is united, dangers can be overcome. This omen indicates being rescued from danger and turning misfortune into good fortune, which is favorable.

訟之升:憒憒不悅,憂從中來。喪我金罌,無妄失位。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Ascending. The mind is confused, depressed, and unhappy, with sorrow arising from within. I have lost my golden jar and my position has been lost without cause. Ascending signifies advancement, but if inner troubles remain, then even though one ascends, there will be no peace. This divination indicates loss of property and position, and a state of mental distress, which is ominous.

訟之困:絆跳不遠,心與言反。尼父望家,萏菡未華。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Difficulty. The legs are hindered, unable to jump far, and what is in the heart contradicts what is spoken. Confucius looks afar at his native land, and the lotus in the pond has not yet bloomed. Difficulty is the hexagram of being in a state of hardship and destitution. When the heart and mouth are not in harmony, the path is blocked. This divination indicates obstacles in advancement, speech not matching thought, and the right time not yet arrived, which is ominous.

訟之井:大壯肥牸,惠我諸舅。內外和睦,不憂飢渴。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of the Well. A fat and strong cow is used to present to my various maternal uncles; both inner and outer relatives are in harmony, there is no need to worry about hunger or thirst. The Well nourishes people and its source never runs dry. If one can use wealth to benefit relatives, the family will be in harmony. This omen indicates harmony among relatives, abundance in clothing and food, and it is auspicious.

訟之革:黃帝建元,文德在身。祿若陽春,封為魯君。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Revolution. The Yellow Emperor established the era, and his virtue of cultural governance was embodied in one person. Blessings and honors are as rich and warm as spring, and he was enfeoffed as the ruler of Lu. Revolution signifies transformation and renewal; once virtue and achievements are established, titles and honors follow. This divination indicates the beginning of a new enterprise and receiving honors and wealth, which is very auspicious.

訟之鼎:虎聚摩牙,以待臀豬。往必傷亡,宜利止居。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of the Cauldron. Tigers gather together grinding their teeth, waiting for a fat wild boar to come to them on its own; if they go, there will certainly be casualties, so it is advisable to stop and stay put. The Cauldron signifies nurturing the virtuous and achieving new success, but dangerous places should not be entered lightly. The divination indicates there is a trap ahead, it is not advisable to go forward, one should stop and remain defensive, which is凶 (a凶 outcome).

訟之震:天地配享,六位光明。陰陽順序,以成和平。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Thunder. Heaven and Earth are paired and both receive sacrifices, with all six lines shining brightly. Yin and Yang proceed in order, thus achieving a peaceful and harmonious governance. Thunder represents movement with its principles; when movement aligns with the heavenly order, harmony is established between above and below. The divination indicates that the superior and inferior will correspond, and the situation will turn harmonious, which is auspicious.

訟之艮:猿墮高木,不踒手足。保我金玉,還歸其室。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Mountain. A monkey falls from a high tree but does not twist its limbs; it preserves my gold and jade and returns safely to its house.艮 signifies stopping; knowing when to stop and not acting recklessly leads to falling without injury. This divination indicates overcoming danger with no loss of property, which is auspicious.

訟之漸:營室紫宮,堅不可攻。明神建德,君受大福。

The hexagram of Strife changes into the hexagram of Gradual Progress. The constellation Yingshi and the Purple Micro Palace are firm and cannot be broken through; the wise divine spirits establish virtue, and the ruler receives great blessings. Yingshi is one of the Twenty-Eight Mansions; ancient people used the time when it rises in the middle of the sky to determine the construction of palaces. Gradual Progress signifies proceeding step by step; holding to the right path and defending strong positions makes external forces unable to invade. The divination indicates a solid foundation and receiving heavenly blessings, which is very auspicious.

訟之歸妹:孤翁寡婦,獨宿悲苦。目張耳鳴,無與笑語。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Marriage. A lonely old man and a widow each live alone, suffering from sorrow and hardship; they lie awake with their eyes open, hearing a buzzing sound in their ears, and find no one with whom to laugh or talk. The hexagram of Marriage signifies marriage but with improper positions, and isolated yin and yang have no suitable partners. This omen indicates loneliness and sorrow, with the widowed and the unmarried left without support, which is ominous.

訟之豐:低頭窺視,有所畏避。行者不利,酒酸魚敗,眾莫貪嗜。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Abundance. One lowers their head and secretly looks around, with fear in their heart and a desire to avoid something; the traveler meets with difficulties, the wine turns sour and the fish rot, and everyone refuses to eat. Abundance signifies grandeur, but when things become too excessive and miss their proper time, they decay. This omen indicates suspicion, concealment, and doubt; goods become spoiled and are left untouched, which is ominous.

訟之旅:載金販狗,利棄我走。藏匿淵底,悔折為咎。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Travel. Carrying gold to trade dogs, the profit is left behind while I run away; hiding money beneath the deep abyss, regret and loss result. Traveling abroad but engaged in an unprofitable business, thus suffering loss. This omen indicates improper management of affairs, loss of hidden wealth, regret and sorrow, and a凶 outcome.

訟之巽:行觸大忌,與司命牾,執囚束縛,拘制於吏。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Wind. Actions have violated a major taboo, conflicting with the Director of Destiny; being arrested, bound, and subjected to the control of officials. The Director of Destiny is the deity in charge of human lifespan and death. Wind represents compliance and entry, but if actions are contrary and not compliant, punishment is incurred. This divination indicates violating taboos leading to misfortune, being involved in legal troubles, which is extremely凶 (dangerous).

訟之兌:執玉歡喜,配之解攣。危詳及安,使我無患。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Joy. Holding a beautiful jade and feeling joyful in the heart, wearing it removes the stiffness and illness; from danger to careful consideration and then to safety, thus I have no misfortune. Joy represents harmony and joy, and a joyful heart brings comfort throughout the body. This divination indicates the removal of illness, transformation from danger to safety, and a favorable omen.

訟之渙:機杼紛擾,女功不成。長妹許嫁,衣無襦絝。聞禍不成,凶惡消去。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Dispersal. The loom and the shuttle are all in a tangle, making it impossible to complete the sewing. The younger sister has already been promised in marriage, yet she cannot even afford a short jacket and trousers. Fortunately, the troubles that were heard about did not materialize, and the dangers and evils have dispersed and vanished. Dispersal means separation; amidst confusion, there will eventually be a turning point. This divination indicates a poor household and chaotic affairs, but the calamity did not become a disaster. There will be initial worries followed by peace and security.

訟之節:金人鐵距,火燒左右。雖俱不恐,獨得全處。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Moderation. A man made of metal and feet of iron, with great fire burning on both sides; although in the midst of fire he is not afraid, only he can remain unharmed. Moderation governs maintaining proper boundaries and self-restraint, solid in nature and able to uphold principles, thus external dangers cannot harm. This omen indicates being in a dangerous situation without fear, preserving oneself alone, which is auspicious.

訟之中孚:謝恩拜德,東歸吾國。舞蹈欣悅,歡樂受福。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Sincerity. To express gratitude and reverence for kindness, one should return eastward to one's homeland. Dancing with joy in heart, one happily receives blessings. The hexagram of Sincerity values mutual trust and sincerity. Knowing and repaying one's debts of gratitude brings blessings naturally. This divination indicates receiving favors and returning home, with the whole family rejoicing. It is auspicious.

訟之小過:青牛白咽,呼我俱田,歷山之下,可以多耕。歲樂時節,人民安寧。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Minor Transgression. A blue ox with a white neck calls me to plow together; at the foot of Lishan mountain, there is much land to cultivate. It is said that Yu the Great once farmed at Lishan, as recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: The Basic Annals of the Five Emperors." The harvest is abundant, the seasons are timely, and the people are at peace. Minor Transgression is suitable for planning small matters, and working the land oneself to meet one's needs is most appropriate. This omen indicates that focusing on agriculture will bring profit, the harvest will be plentiful, and the people will be secure. It is auspicious.

訟之既濟:白雉群雎,慕德朝貢。湛露之恩,使我得歡。

The hexagram of Strife changes to the hexagram of Perfect Stillness. White pheasants and flocks of雎鸠, admiring the virtue of government, come to present tribute; the Son of Heaven treats them with the grace of the "Zhan Lu" banquet, bringing me joy. It is said that during the time when the Duke of Zhou governed, the Yu Chang people came with multiple interpreters to present white pheasants, as recorded in the "Great Transmission of the Book of Documents." The hexagram of Perfect Stillness signifies that all matters have been completed. When virtue and grace extend to distant people, they will come from all directions. This divination indicates the return of distant people, receiving grace and rewards, which is very auspicious.

訟之未濟:避患東西,反入禍門。糟糠不足,憂愁我心。

The hexagram of Strife changes into the hexagram of Not Yet Completed. Hiding from trouble by evading and avoiding leads one to deliberately step into the door of misfortune; even basic sustenance like coarse food is not enough, and worry fills my heart. The hexagram of Not Yet Completed signifies that the matter has not been completed. If one is indecisive in either fleeing or facing, the situation becomes more dangerous. This omen indicates that avoiding trouble brings more trouble, hunger and hardship, and great misfortune.

The Forest of the Army (the Sixty-fourth Hexagram of the Army)

師之師:烏鳴呼子,哺以酒脯。高樓之處,子來歸母。穡人成功,年歲大有,妒婦無子。

The hexagram remains the same as the original. Crows call out to their young, feeding them with wine and dried meat; on a high building, the child returns to his mother. Crows feeding their parents, ancient people regarded them as birds of filial piety. Farmers work diligently and achieve a bountiful harvest, yet the jealous wife has no children. The hexagram of the army signifies gathering people under a leader, and mother and child reuniting brings harmony within the family. This divination indicates family reunion and abundant harvests, but beware of jealousy and discord, which may bring good fortune with some obstacles.

師之乾:一簧兩舌,佞言諂語。三奸成虎,曾母投杼。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes into the hexagram of Heaven. A person with two tongues in his mouth speaks full of flattery and deceit; three villains repeatedly telling a story can create a tiger out of thin air, even the mother of Zeng Shen finally threw down her loom and ran away. "Three people saying a tiger is a tiger" is found in "Strategies of the Warring States: Wei Strategy," and "Zeng's mother throwing away her loom" is found in "Strategies of the Warring States: Qin Strategy." The hexagram of Military Campaign signifies gathering people, but when many mouths spread false words, even the virtuous are slandered. If this hexagram is used for divination, it indicates slander and confusion among the people, trusted people being suspected, which is ominous.

師之坤:春桃生花,季女宜家。受福且多,在師中吉,男為封君。

The hexagram 师 transforms into 坤. In spring, peach trees bloom and it is auspicious for a young woman to marry. The poem from the Book of Songs, Zhou Nan, Tao Yao, says, "May this person go to his home, it is good for his family." The blessings received are both abundant and thick, just as the line statement of line nine two in the hexagram 师 says, "It is auspicious to be in the army," meaning that being in the center and upright brings good fortune. The son born will be enfeoffed as a king. Asking about marriage indicates a happy union, asking about offspring indicates nobility and prestige, which is very auspicious.

師之屯:殊類異路,心不相慕。牝牛牡猳,獨無家室。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Obstruction. Different kinds and different paths, with no mutual affection in their hearts; a cow and a pig cannot be matched, ending up alone without a family. The hexagram of Obstruction represents a situation where new beginnings are difficult to achieve, and if the kinds are different, they will never come together. For marriage, it indicates disharmony; for partnership, it suggests differing intentions, which is ominous.

師之蒙:折葉蔽目,不見稚叔。三足孤鳥,遠其元夫。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Innocence. Plucking a leaf and covering the eyes, one cannot see the young younger brother; a solitary bird with three legs moves far away from its mate. Innocence signifies confusion and lack of clarity. When the eyes are obscured by external things, even close relatives cannot be seen. This omen indicates that the senses are obstructed, family members are estranged, and husband and wife are separated, which is ominous.

師之需:雀東求粒,誤入網域。賴逢君子,脫復歸息。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Necessity. A sparrow flies east to find grain, but accidentally enters an area with a snare. Fortunately, it meets a kind and benevolent gentleman who releases it, allowing the bird to return to its nest and rest safely. The "Records of the Grand Historian: The Annals of Yin" records that King Tang of Shang left three sides of his net open, precisely reflecting such benevolence. Necessity signifies waiting for the right moment; encountering a virtuous person can resolve dangerous situations. This divination indicates a minor danger but rescue by a superior, beginning with adversity and ending in good fortune.

師之訟:王孫季子,相與孝友。明允篤誠,升擢薦舉,為國乾輔。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Strife. Wangsun and Jizi are filial and fraternal towards each other; they are discerning, trustworthy, sincere, and loyal, thus being promoted and recommended, becoming pillars of state and assistants to the ruler. The "Zuo Zhuan · Wen Gong Eighteenth Year" mentions the talented sons of the High Emperor, saying "united in virtue, broad-minded, clear and sincere, steadfast and sincere." Military Campaign signifies mobilizing people; if a virtuous person is appointed as a general, the state will become strong. The divination indicates that the subject's character is rewarded, and he is promoted to a position of importance, which is very auspicious.

師之比:削樹無枝,與子分離。飢寒莫食,獨泣哀悲。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Following. A tree is cut down so completely that not even a single branch remains; parents and children are separated. Suffering from both hunger and cold with nothing to eat, one cries alone in deep sorrow. Following signifies attachment, but without any branches to rely on, one is left in isolation and destitution. This omen indicates separation of family members, lack of food and clothing, and is a great misfortune.

師之小畜:舜生大禹,石夷之野。徵詣玉闋,拜理水土。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Small Accumulation. Yu the Great was appointed by Shun to manage water control. The Book of Documents, Shun's Classic, records that Shun appointed Yu as the Minister of Works to manage the land and water. Small Accumulation signifies the nurturing of strength through flexibility and the appointment of capable people, leading to gradual success. This divination indicates receiving a mandate and being entrusted with a specific duty, which is auspicious.

師之履:義不勝情,以欲自營。見利危寵,滅君令名。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Following. Moral principles cannot overcome personal feelings; one runs about and makes efforts solely for personal desires. When encountering benefits, one is willing to risk losing favor, thus destroying the good reputation of a gentleman. The hexagram of Following emphasizes proceeding according to propriety. Yielding to personal interests and neglecting propriety leads to the complete loss of reputation. The divination indicates greed for gain and moral failure, resulting in the complete loss of reputation and misfortune.

師之泰:三人北行,六位光明。道逢淑女,與我驥子。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Great Crossing. Three people travel north together, and all six positions are bright. On the way, they meet a virtuous woman who gives them a noble son like a fine steed. Great Crossing means smooth passage; when one travels and meets suitable people, their wishes are fulfilled. Asking about marriage indicates meeting a good partner, asking about children indicates having a noble son, which is very auspicious.

師之否:弈張烏號,彀射天狼。柱國雄勇,鬥死滎陽。

The trigram of the army changes to the trigram of blockage. Draw a fine bow like the Huohao bow, draw the string fully to shoot the star Tianlang; the country's pillars are strong and brave, yet they die in Xingyang. The Huohao bow is said to be the bow of the Yellow Emperor, as mentioned in the "Original Dao Training" section of the "Huainanzi"; Tianlang is a malevolent star that oversees invasion and plunder. During the struggle between Chu and Han, Ji Xin and Zhou Ke both died bravely in Xingyang. Blockage signifies obstruction and blockage, although brave, if the timing is not favorable, one will ultimately perish. This divination indicates that one is loyal and brave, but will not have a good ending, hence it is ominous.

師之同人:季姬躑躅,結衿待時。終日至暮,百兩不來。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Fellowship. Ji Ji hesitated and did not move forward, fastening her sash and waiting for the right opportunity. From morning until night, the hundred chariots for the wedding never arrived. The poem from the Book of Songs, Zhao Nan, Qie Chao, says, "This person is going to marry, with a hundred chariots accompanying her." The hexagram of Fellowship signifies harmony with others, but when expectations are not met, one is left in vain waiting. Asking about marriage indicates that the auspicious time has passed and long waiting has resulted in nothing, which is ominous.

師之大有:鴻雁翩翩,始怨勞苦。災疫病民,鰥寡愁憂。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Great Possession. Wild geese fly gracefully, yet they begin to resent the hardships of military service; famine and plague cause the people to fall ill, and widows and orphans are filled with sorrow. The poem "Wild Geese" from the Book of Songs depicts the suffering of displaced people. Great Possession originally signifies prosperity, but when the people's strength is exhausted, the state's resources also become depleted. This divination indicates labor, disease, loneliness, and hardship, which are ominous.

師之謙:穿胸狗邦,僵離旁舂。天地易紀,日月更始。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes into the hexagram of Humility. A country with people who have pierced chests and a dog kingdom, where corpses are separated from their forms and people strike their arms sideways, are all distant lands inhabited by strange people and customs. Both the "Classic of Mountains and Seas" and the "Huainanzi · Duxing Xun" record peoples such as the people with pierced chests and the dog kingdom, which are overseas nations. The heavens and earth have changed their principles, and the sun and moon have begun anew. Humility benefits those who are lowly, and when the heavens and earth start anew, the old order is entirely transformed. This divination indicates a dramatic change in the situation, a complete transformation of the previous state, and suggests that one should retreat humbly and follow the proper time.

師之豫:北山有棗,使叔壽考。東岑多栗,宜行賈市,陸梁雌雉,所至利喜。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Joy. There are jujube trees on the northern mountain, which bring the叔氏 a long life; the eastern mountain range produces many chestnuts, suitable for traveling and trading. Female pheasants run about on the land, and wherever they go, there is profit and joy. Joy signifies smooth movement and happiness. By adapting to local conditions to seek profit, one will find success everywhere. This omen indicates longevity, profit from business, and a joyful journey, which is very auspicious.

師之隨:干旄旌旗,撫幟在郊。雖有寶玉,無路致之。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Following. A flag with a bull's tail, along with colorful banners, is set up at the outskirts. The poem "Dry Flag" from the Book of Songs describes a nobleman driving a carriage with banners to attract talented people. Although one possesses a precious jade, there is no path to deliver it. Following implies accompanying and following, but if the road is blocked, talented individuals will not arrive. The divination indicates that the subject has a mind but no opportunity, and excellent talents are difficult to recommend, which is ominous.

師之蠱:精潔淵塞,為饞所言。證訊詰請,繫於枳溫。甘棠聽斷,怡然蒙恩。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of蛊. The person is pure, clean, deep, and sincere, but is falsely accused by slanderers. After investigation, interrogation, and questioning to seek the truth, he is temporarily imprisoned. Fortunately, he meets an upright official like Zhao Bo who hears cases under the sweet osier tree, as described in the poem "Gan Tang" from the Book of Songs, and is then released with grace. The hexagram of蛊 signifies the removal of accumulated evils; once the evils are cleared, the injustice will be revealed. This divination indicates that the person is first wronged and then vindicated, starting with misfortune and ending with good fortune.

師之臨:玄黃虺隤,行者勞疲。役夫憔悴,逾時不歸。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Approaching. The horse is sick, its coat dull and dark, its legs weak and unsteady, and the traveler is exhausted. Those serving others are pale and emaciated, and have not yet returned home beyond the set time. The Book of Songs, Zhou Nan, Juan Er, says, "My horse is weary," "My horse is dark and yellow." Approaching means to be above and over the people below; excessive use leads to exhaustion of those below. If asking about a traveler, it indicates being detained abroad; if asking about the body, it indicates fatigue leading to illness, which is ominous.

師之觀:膚敏之德,發憤忘食。虜豹禽說,以成主德。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Observing. This indicates a virtue of being quick and capable, striving diligently and forgetting to eat. It also signifies capturing a brave warrior like a leopard and promoting a virtuous minister like Fu Yue, thus achieving the ruler's virtue. The Analects of Confucius records Confucius saying, "I strive diligently and forget to eat." The Book of Shang Dynasty's Sayings records King Wu Ding promoting Fu Yue from the work of building walls. Observing the great principles of cultivation and education, by employing capable people, the virtue and achievements of the ruler can be realized. This divination indicates diligence in study leading to usefulness, and the promotion of virtuous ministers to assist the ruler, which is highly auspicious.

師之噬嗑:采唐沫鄉,要我桑中。失信不會,憂思約帶。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Crackling Thunder. Go to Mei邑 to gather female moss, and meet me in the桑林. The poem "Song of the桑林" from the Book of Songs, Yong Feng, describes exactly this event. The other party failed to keep the appointment and did not come, causing excessive worry and even loosening the belt. The hexagram of Crackling Thunder signifies the act of biting and joining together; when a meeting is arranged but cannot be fulfilled, it leads to sickness from longing. When asking about marriage or a meeting, it indicates a broken appointment and no meeting, leading only to increased sorrow, which is ominous.

師之賁:伯寧子福,惠我邦國。蠲除苛殘,使季無患。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Ornamentation. Brother Bo is peaceful, and the descendants will be blessed, with kindness and benefits extending to my state. Remove harsh and cruel policies, so that the Ji family is free from calamity. Ornamentation signifies refinement; using cultural virtue to adorn governance brings peace to the people. The divination indicates lenient policies and no worries for the state and family, which is auspicious.

師之剝:饞父佞雄,賊亂邦國。生雖忠孝,敗恩不福。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Splitting. An old man who spreads slander and a cunning枭 (sparrowhawk) villain cause harm and disorder to the state. Even those who are born loyal and filial are ruined in their relationships and do not receive blessings. Splitting represents a yin force overcoming yang, meaning villains gain power while the virtuous suffer. This omen indicates that villains are in control and the loyal are harmed, which is a great misfortune.

師之復:淵泉堤防,水道通利。順注湖海,邦國富有。

The hexagram of Military Campaign transforms into the hexagram of Return. Deep springs build embankments, water channels are unblocked and flow smoothly; following the current into lakes and seas, the states thus become prosperous. The "Rites of Zhou · Rice Officer" mentions duties of preventing water and channeling water. Return signifies the return of one yang, and guiding according to the trend leads to great benefit. The divination indicates success in water management and abundant sources of wealth, which is auspicious.

師之無妄:江南多蝮,螫我手足。冤繁詰屈,痛徹心腹。

The hexagram Shī changes to Wúwàng. In the Jiangnan region, there are many蝮 snakes, which have bitten my hands and feet; there are many grievances that are complicated and hard to distinguish, causing pain that reaches the heart and abdomen. The hexagram Wúwàng warns people not to act recklessly, for entering dangerous situations leads to harm. This divination indicates that one suffers from poison and injustice, with no way to clear the wrongs, which is a great misfortune.

師之大畜:三人俱行,別離獨食。一身五心,反覆迷惑,亂無所得。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Great Accumulation. Three people set out together, but on the way they part ways and each eats separately. One person has five different thoughts, hesitates repeatedly, and is confused, yet gains nothing. Great Accumulation signifies gathering and holding on firmly, but if the mind is not focused, what is gathered will be scattered again. This divination indicates that companions are not united, decisions are uncertain, and in the end, there is no success, which is ominous.

師之頤:鴉鳴庭中,以戒災凶。重門擊柝,備不速客。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Contemplation. Crows call in the courtyard, used to warn of disaster and danger; thus, many gates are set up and wooden梆s are beaten at night to guard against unexpected guests. The Great Treatise of the Zhou Changes says, "Many gates are closed and wooden梆s are beaten to await violent guests." Contemplation governs nurturing correctness; knowing the warning and preparing in advance ensures security in nurturing. The divination indicates that there is a warning beforehand, and precautions are taken before danger arises, leading from danger to safety.

師之大過:功成事就,拱手安居。立德有言,坐飾貢賦。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Great Excess. The achievements have been completed, the matter has been settled, and one can rest at home in peace. Establishing virtue, leaving behind commendable words, and sitting calmly to organize the collection of taxes and duties. The "Zuo Zhuan · Xianggong Twenty-fourth Year" mentions establishing virtue, establishing achievements, and leaving behind words as the three imperishable accomplishments. Although Great Excess signifies bearing a heavy burden, knowing when to step back after achieving success prevents harm. The divination indicates that one has achieved success and gained a good reputation, enjoying a peaceful and prosperous life, which is highly auspicious.

師之坎:國亂不安,兵革為患。掠我妻子,家中飢寒。

The hexagram of Military Campaign transforms into the hexagram of Water. The country is in turmoil and unrest, with weapons and armor becoming sources of calamity; wives and children are taken captive, and the household suffers from hunger and cold. The hexagram of Water represents deep and dangerous predicaments, and in times of chaos, dangers multiply. This omen indicates personal involvement in military disaster, family destruction, and separation from loved ones, which is extremely ominous.

師之離:戴堯扶禹,從喬彭祖。西遇王母,道路夷宜,無敢難者。

The hexagram changes to the hexagram of Fire. One has the virtue of Yao at the top and supports Yu, the great sage. One follows the immortal Longzhong and Pengzu, those who attain longevity. Going west, one meets the Queen Mother of the West, with a smooth and suitable path, no one dares to obstruct. Fire represents attachment; if what one attaches to are sages and immortals, then there will be no obstacles. This divination indicates receiving assistance from a superior person, a smooth and prosperous future, which is very auspicious.

師之咸:長尾委蛇,畫地成河。深不可涉。絕無以比,惆悵會息。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes into the hexagram of Salt and Sweet. A long tail winds and twists, drawing a river across the ground; the water is so deep that it cannot be crossed, nothing can be compared to it, and one can only feel melancholy and rest. The hexagram of Salt and Sweet represents mutualsympathetic response, but with an obstruction in the middle, thesympathetic response is blocked and communication is not achieved. This omen indicates that the path ahead is blocked, aspirations cannot be realized, and it is ominous.

師之恆:乘龍從蜺,徵詣北闋。乃見宣室。拜守東城。鎮慰黎元,舉家蒙富。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Permanence. Riding on a flying dragon and driving clouds and rainbows, one is summoned to the northern palace; thus, one is summoned to the Xuan Room and receives a mandate to govern the eastern city. Emperor Wen of Han once summoned Jia Yi to the Xuan Room, as recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian: The Biography of Qu Yuan and Jia Yi." Afterwards, one comforts the people, and the whole family becomes prosperous. Permanence signifies constancy and duration; by holding a position and maintaining stability, blessings will last long. This divination indicates receiving an official appointment, family prosperity, and great good fortune.

師之遁:土與山連,終身無患。天地高明,萬歲長安。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Retreat. The land and mountains are connected, ensuring no calamity throughout one's life; the heavens and earth are lofty and bright, bringing peace and security for ten thousand years. Retreat originally signifies withdrawal, but retreating to a solid land ensures a firm foundation. This omen indicates a suitable dwelling place and a life free from danger, which is highly auspicious.

師之大壯:久旱水涸,枯槁無澤。虛修其德,未有所獲。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Great Strength. There is a prolonged drought with dry wells and withered plants and trees showing no signs of moisture; one may diligently cultivate virtue but gains nothing. Great Strength is suitable for maintaining righteousness and not for reckless advancement; when the timing is not right, even though virtue is cultivated, its effects are not evident. This divination indicates a period of bad fortune, where efforts in cultivation do not show results, and one should remain calm and wait for the right time.

師之晉:依天倚地,凶危不至。上清下淨,受福大明,君受其利。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Progress. Above relies on the blue sky, below depends on the earth, so no danger or adversity will come. Those above are clear and bright, those below are pure and clean, receiving the great illumination and benefiting from the ruler's advantage. Progress indicates ascending and attaching to the great illumination; when both above and below are in proper position, blessings naturally arrive. The divination indicates a solid foundation, clarity above and below, receiving blessings and benefits, which is very auspicious.

師之明夷:火烈不去,必殪僵仆。燔我衣裾,福不可悔。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Brightness Dimmed. Intense fire burns but will not retreat, inevitably causing death and immobility; the fire burns my sash, leading to the loss of fortune and regret too late. The hexagram of Brightness Dimmed signifies injury to light, and excessive fire turns into destruction. This omen indicates a calamity from fire, injury to the body, regret too late, which is extremely凶.

The original text is in the public domain. The English is a machine-assisted translation of this library’s own Chinese paraphrase, checked against a fixed glossary so that technical terms match the definitions used elsewhere on this site. It is a reading aid and does not replace the original.