The Forest of Zhongfu (the 64th hexagram Zhongfu)

震　反孽難步，留不及舍。露宿澤陂，亡其襦褲。

The trigram Zhen (Thunder) in the hexagram Ji Ji indicates that misfortunes recur, making every step difficult. If one stops, they cannot reach their destination in time; they can only sleep outdoors by the edge of a pond, and even lose their short clothes and long trousers. This suggests that the person in question has a troublesome journey, losing their place and belongings. The fortune-teller, who is away from home, may also experience delays and losses. It is advisable to plan meals and accommodations in advance and avoid traveling at night or staying in the wilderness.

艮　狼虎結謀，相聚為保。伺候牛羊，病我商人。

The trigram Gen (Mountain) in the hexagram Ji Ji (Completion). Wolves and tigers conspire together, gathering to form a shield for each other; they spy on cattle and sheep, and also threaten my merchants. This indicates that the person in charge is surrounded by wicked people forming a gang, plotting to harm others. The one divining should be aware that in their current situation, there are groups engaged in wrongdoing. All those involved in trade and travel should travel in groups and take extra precautions, for traveling alone will surely lead to harm.

漸　明德克敏，乘興貢舉。故（一作放）勳御用，人（一作乂）哲蒙佑。

The situation is gradually leading to completion. With virtue and brightness, and diligence and quickness, one can seize the opportunity and be recommended and appointed. Emperor Yao, whose name was Fangxun, was a person who was given important roles, and wise men also received his protection. "Fangxun" is the name of Yao, as mentioned in the Book of Documents, the Yao Classic. This Lin Dagji indicates that virtuous and capable people will be recommended, and a wise ruler will appoint the virtuous. Those who consult the oracle should diligently cultivate their moral conduct, for the path to advancement is now open.

歸妹　貧鬼守門，日破我盆。□罌破甕，空虛無子。（損之剝）

After the completion of the Hexagram of Union, the situation is like a return of the maiden. The ghostly spirits are guarding the gate, breaking the pots every day; jars, bottles, vases, and containers are all broken, the house is empty and desolate, and there is not even a child. This is a great misfortune for the household, indicating poverty and hardship, destruction of utensils and scarcity of people. The person consulting the oracle is currently spending more than they earn, with continuous losses. They should be frugal and seek help from outside, and should not have any major expenses.

豐　天命赤烏，與兵徼期。征伐無道，箕子遨遊。

After the completion of the great undertaking, the heavens sent a red bird as a sign of auspiciousness. The "Records of the Grand Historian: The Annals of the Zhou Dynasty" records that when King Wu of Zhou attacked King Zhou of Shang, there was a sign of fire turning into a red bird, indicating the appointed time for military action. By attacking the unjust ruler, Ji Zi was able to travel freely. This forest's owner is carrying out heaven's mandate to punish wrongdoing, allowing the virtuous to escape difficulties. The person consulting the divination is acting at a favorable time, able to eliminate evil and allow the virtuous to gain freedom.

旅　威約拘囚，為人所誣。皋陶平理，剖械出牢，脫歸家閭。

The journey of the hexagram Ji Ji indicates a situation where one is forced into confinement due to external pressure, actually being falsely accused. Fortunately, there is a fair judge like Gao Yao who will impartially investigate and clear the name, removing the restraints and allowing the person to leave prison and return to his homeland. This is the case of a forest owner who was wrongfully accused but eventually cleared of the charge. Similarly, if the person seeking divination faces a period of imprisonment, as long as he truthfully explains his case, he will be exonerated and return home.

巽　羊驚虎狼，聳耳群聚。無益威僵，為齒所傷。

The trigram Xun (Wind) in the hexagram Ji Ji (Completion). A flock of sheep is startled by tigers and wolves; they raise their ears and crowd together. This gathering cannot withstand the power of the tigers and wolves, nor can they stand still and take action, and in the end they are bitten by the sharp teeth. This hexagram indicates that the weak, when gathered together, lack strategy and ultimately suffer destruction. If the person casting the divination lacks strength, relying only on numbers cannot ensure safety; it is advisable to seek strong allies or to retreat early.

兌　初雖啼號，後必慶笑。光明照耀，百嘉如意。

The trigram Dui (Lake) in the hexagram Ji Ji (Completion) indicates that although there may be initial sorrow and crying, eventually it will turn into celebration and joy. Light shines in all directions, and all things will go smoothly and as desired. This signifies that the person in question will first experience hardship but later enjoy prosperity and success. The current sorrow is actually a prelude to joy; one must endure this moment, and afterwards everything will proceed smoothly.

渙　馬服長股，宜行善市。蒙佑諧耦，獲金五倍。

After the completion of the journey, the situation becomes chaotic. A swift horse with long legs is good for traveling and doing business. With protection and proper coordination, profits can reach five times the investment. This is favorable for business, indicating quick movement and good cooperation. The person should actively go out to conduct business and find the right partner, as the gains will far exceed the initial capital.

節　應門內崩，誅賢殺暴。上下咸愜，景公失位。長歸元恆（一作「洹」），望妻不來。

The hexagram of Already Completed indicates a situation where within the gate, there is a collapse, and virtuous people are executed while the wicked are killed. At that moment, both above and below feel a sense of relief and joy. However, King Jing of Qi lost his position because of this. He returned to his original place, hoping to see his wife, but she never came. This indicates that the person in question will face internal turmoil leading to misfortune, loss of position, and leaving home. The interpreter should be cautious about internal disturbances and not let temporary satisfaction harm the fundamental stability.

中孚　執斧破薪，使媒求婦。好合二姓，親御斯酒。色比毛嬙，姑悅公喜。（小過之益）

In the hexagram Ji Ji, the image is of the middle of completion and sincerity. One holds an axe to cut through firewood, sending a媒人 to seek a wife. The "Book of Songs · Qi Wind · Nan Shan" uses both cutting firewood and seeking a wife together; two families harmonize and unite, personally driving the carriage and sharing this wine. The bride's beauty can be compared to the ancient beauty Mao Qiang. Both the mother-in-law and father-in-law are pleased. This is auspicious for marriage, indicating a good match and the in-laws' satisfaction.

小過　兩輪日轉，南上大阪。四馬共轅，無有險難，與禹笑言。（賁之需）

After the completion of the great journey, there is a minor error. Two chariot wheels turn all day, climbing a high southern slope; four horses draw a single yoke, with no obstacles or difficulties along the way, walking in laughter with Yu. This forest is very auspicious, indicating smooth travel and united effort. The one who divines will find that traveling south will be unimpeded, and any endeavor requiring collective effort will easily overcome difficulties.

未濟　千柱百梁，終不傾僵，周家寧康。

After the completion of the journey, the state of not yet having reached the goal. A thousand pillars and a hundred crossbeams support the building, ultimately not collapsing, so the royal house is thus peaceful and prosperous. This is a great auspicious sign, indicating firm foundations and many supports. Those who consult the oracle will find their undertakings well-structured and stable. Even if there are storms, they will not waver. It is advisable to widely establish supports, ensuring long-term security.

未濟　志慢未習，單酒糗脯。數至神前，欲求所願，反得大患。

The hexagram is "Without Completion" (未济). The person's heart is lazy and they are unfamiliar with proper etiquette, only offering thin wine and dry food. They repeatedly go before the deity seeking to fulfill their wishes, yet instead they invite great misfortune. This person lacks proper offerings and has a slow heart, and their prayers bring calamity. If the diviner is not sincere and does not prepare adequately, seeking the gods for matters will not bring benefit but will instead cause trouble. It is advisable to first correct one's own conduct.

乾　且生夕死，名曰嬰鬼，不可得祀。（渙之大過，震之坤，小過之升）

The hexagram of Not Yet Achieved meets the hexagram of Heaven. Being born in the morning and dying in the evening, it can only be called a child ghost, and even worship cannot be carried out. This is a very凶凶 situation, indicating short-lived vitality, things being formed only to be destroyed again. All new undertakings are difficult to sustain. Those who seek divination find their endeavors have too weak a foundation; they should not act hastily. Particular care should be taken with young children at home.

坤　大步上車，南至喜家。送我狐裘，與福喜來。（節之觀，大過之困，中孚之泰）

The hexagram is "Not Yet Completed" (Wèijì) and the line is "Earth" (Kūn). Taking a big step and getting on a cart, going south to a house where a wedding is being held; the host gives me a fox fur coat, and blessings and joy come together. The forest owner attends a celebration and receives a gift, going south to gain fortune. The person consulting the oracle should be active in socializing, and any affairs involving attending banquets, visiting friends, or traveling south will bring rewards.

屯　西多小星，三五在東。早夜晨行，勞苦無功。（大過之夬）

The hexagram is Unfinished (Wei Ji) and屯 (Zun). In the west, small stars are densely scattered, appearing in groups of three or five still hanging in the east. The "Book of Songs," "Zhao Nan · Xiao Xing" says, "Bright are those small stars, appearing in threes and fives in the east," which describes the toil of minor officials who rise before dawn and work until night. They start early, travel at night, and set out before daybreak, yet in the end, they labor in vain. This person is constantly moving about, exerting themselves in vain. The one who interprets the oracle is also diligent but does not receive due reward. It is advisable to change methods rather than to increase effort.

蒙　北陸藏冰，君子心悲。困於粒食，鬼驚我門。

The hexagram of Not Yet Achieved meets the hexagram of Obstruction. When the sun begins to move along the northern land, ice starts to be stored, as recorded in the "Zuo Zhuan · Zhao Gong Four Year": "In ancient times, when the sun was in the northern land, ice was stored." Yet the gentleman feels a deep sense of melancholy. Even a single grain of rice is hard to obtain, and ghosts and spirits still disturb his gate. This indicates a master of the forest facing severe winter with lack of food and inner and outer unrest. The one casting the divination should prepare provisions for the winter in advance and stabilize the household, so as not to let people's hearts become restless.

需　山泉暴怒，壞梁折柱。稽難行旅，留連愁苦。

The hexagram is "Not Yet Completed" (Wèi Jì). In the mountains, a spring has suddenly swollen and become turbulent, breaking the beams and snapping the pillars of the eaves. Travelers are thus obstructed and remain stranded outside, filled with sorrow. This indicates that the person in charge is facing water damage, ruined houses, and difficulties in travel. The one consulting the oracle should not travel far, and the dwelling should be guarded against leaks and collapse. It is advisable to remain quiet and wait for the water to recede; attempting to move prematurely will only increase sorrow.

訟　比目四翼，來安吾國。福喜上堂，與我同床。（損之隨，同人之兌，比之離）

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed leads to a lawsuit. The fish that swim in pairs and the birds with wings joined together come to bring stability to my country; blessings and joy enter the hall and share my bed. This forest is very auspicious, indicating a harmonious marriage and the arrival of good fortune and joy. Although it is named a lawsuit, in reality it signifies harmony and reconciliation. The matter that the diviner is disputing can be resolved and turned into a favorable outcome.

師　狡兔趯趯，良犬逐咋。雄雌爰爰，為鷹所獲。

The hexagram is "Not Yet Completed" (未济). A cunning rabbit jumps and flees, while a good dog chases and bites it. Originally, the male and female rabbits were at ease. The Book of Songs, Wind of Wang, "Turtle" says, "The rabbit moves about freely." In the end, it is captured by the hawk. This indicates that the person in question will also escape but eventually be captured. If the diviner is among those being pursued, he should seek protection quickly. If he is the one pursuing, he may expect success.

比　增祿益福，喜來入室，解除憂惑。

The hexagram is "Not Yet Completed." There will be an increase in salary and a thickening of good fortune, with joy entering the household. Worry and confusion are removed. This is a great auspicious omen, indicating advancement in status and increased blessings, with all matters of concern suddenly resolved. The person seeking the divination will find their worries naturally dispelled, and they will receive tangible benefits. It is advisable to accept these developments calmly. All endeavors related to wealth and security will be successful.

小畜　騎龍乘鳳，上見神公。彭祖受制，王喬贊通。巫咸就位，拜福無窮。（家人之剝）

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed corresponds to the hexagram of Small Accumulation. Riding on a dragon and riding on a phoenix, ascending to heaven to pay homage to the deities; Pengzu receives imperial decree, Prince Qiao recommends him, and Wu Xian takes his place to preside, praying for boundless blessings. These three were all ancient immortals of longevity, as recorded in the "Biographies of Immortals." This is Lin Da Ji, indicating that one may reach the ears of the sovereign, gain blessings and longevity, and those who divinate may hope to receive the protection of the divine.

履　天火卒起，燒我旁裡。延及吾家，空盡己財。

The hexagram is "Not Yet Completed" (未济) and the line is "The Foot" (履). Heavenly Fire suddenly ignites, first burning down the nearby lanes and alleys, then spreading to my own house, completely destroying my property. This is a great calamity from fire, indicating that the fire from the neighbor will spread and destroy all family wealth. The person consulting the oracle must be extremely cautious with fire and lamps, and pay close attention to potential dangers from neighbors. It is advisable to prepare an escape route and emergency funds in advance.

泰　金帛黃寶，宜與我市。嫁娶有息，利得萬倍。

The hexagram of Not Yet Achieved leads to the hexagram of Greatness. Gold, silk, and various precious treasures are most suitable for trade with me; marriage affairs also bring offspring, with profits potentially reaching ten thousand times. This forest is very auspicious, indicating smooth flow of wealth and prosperity in both marriage and offspring. The one who divines this should boldly engage in business and acquire goods, also experiencing the joy of establishing a family and adding descendants. This is an excellent omen of both wealth and offspring.

否　鬼魅之居，凶不可舍。

The hexagram is "Not Yet Achieved" and "Obstruction." This is a place where ghosts and spirits dwell, extremely dangerous and unsuitable for staying. This forest signifies an inauspicious dwelling, and one must leave quickly. The person consulting the oracle or the place they wish to go is concealed with hidden dangers. They should decisively leave immediately, not lingering for even a moment, as attachment will bring harm.

同人　飛鳥逐兔，各有畏惡。鵰鷹為賊，亂我室舍。

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed meets the hexagram of Fellowship. A flying bird chases a wild hare, each with its own fears and dislikes; the hawk and the eagle have become harmful creatures, disturbing my dwelling. In this forest, different creatures disturb each other, and fierce birds cause trouble. The person divining this situation has a fierce person nearby causing disruption, and the household is not at peace. It is advisable to first eliminate the source of harm, so that one may live in peace and security.

大有　初雖驚惶，後乃無傷，受其福慶。

The hexagram of Great Possession follows the hexagram of Not Yet Achieved. At first, there was confusion and panic, but later there was no harm at all, and instead, blessings and rewards were received. This line indicates a situation where initial alarm turns into joy, with no real danger. The person seeking the oracle is currently experiencing worry, but it is not a real calamity. By remaining calm and composed, they can pass through the situation unscathed, and later receive unexpected good fortune.

謙　兩金相擊，勇氣均敵。日月鬥戰，不破不缺。

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed (未济) combined with Humility (谦) indicates two metals colliding, with equal courage and strength; like the sun and moon competing, neither is harmed. This situation represents two strong forces facing each other, balanced without a clear winner. The matter in question remains undecided, and it is advisable to temporarily hold back or seek reconciliation rather than engage in a direct confrontation, as a struggle will yield no benefit.

豫　曳綸河海，掛釣魴鯉。王孫利德，以享仲發。（一作「友」）

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed corresponds to the hexagram of Joy. In rivers and seas, dragging the fishing line catches carp and crucian carp; the gentleman takes this as a sign of benevolent benefits, using them to present to Zhong Fa. This forest lord indicates that one who fishes will have a good catch and use the catch to honor one's parents. The person consulting the oracle may expect success in their endeavors, and it is favorable to share the gains with family and elders, thereby increasing blessings.

隨　犬畏虎狼，依人作輔。三夫執戟，伏不敢起，身安無咎。

The hexagram of Not Yet Achieved followed by the hexagram of Following. A dog fears tigers and wolves, so it relies on its master for support; three warriors holding long spears guard it, so tigers and wolves can only lie down and dare not rise, thus ensuring its own safety and avoiding misfortune. This forest master relies on the strong to protect itself. If the person divining the hexagram is weak and lacks support, they should seek a reliable ally and follow others, thereby remaining safe and unharmed.

蠱　蜘蛛作網，以伺行旅。青蠅嚵聚，觸我羅域。為網所得，死於網羅。

The hexagram is "Not Yet Completed" (Wèijì) and the line is "Gǔ" (Gust). Spiders have woven a web to wait for passing travelers; green flies, greedy for food, gather together and fly into my web, eventually getting caught and dying in the web. This forest's master is greedy and falls into a trap, self-inflicted. The fortune-teller's current gain is actually a snare; do not fall into others' prearranged traps because of small gains.

臨　所望在外，鼎命方來。拭爵滌罍，炊食待之，不為季憂。

The hexagram is "Not Yet Completed" approaching "Approaching." What is desired is outside, and a significant appointment is about to arrive. Clean the wine vessel and wash the wine jar, prepare the food and wait for him. There is no need to worry about the younger brother. This forest is very auspicious, indicating good news is coming, and a noble fate is approaching. The matter awaited by the person seeking the divination will have a resolution. It is advisable to prepare for his arrival, and the family need not be anxious.

觀　日月並居，常暗匪明。高山崩顛，丘陵為溪。（蹇之咸）

The hexagram of Not Yet Achieved (未济) indicates a situation where the sun and moon are in the same place yet often remain dark and dim; a high mountain collapses and falls, while hills sink to form valleys. The "Book of Songs · Xiao Ya · October's Meeting" uses "high banks become valleys, deep valleys become hills" to depict great changes in the world. In this case, clarity turns to darkness, and the heavens and earth are overturned. Those who interpret the omen should be aware that the situation they are in is about to undergo a significant transformation. They should prepare early and not rely on past conditions.

噬嗑　春服既成，載華復生。莖葉茂盛，實穗泥泥。

The hexagram of Unfinished Affairs follows the hexagram of Mutual Recognition. Spring clothes have already been made; as mentioned in the Analects of Confucius, "Spring attire is completed." Grass and trees once again bloom and regenerate; stems and leaves flourish, and fruits and grains are moist and abundant. This forest is auspicious, indicating smooth seasonal transitions and renewed vitality. Those who engage in endeavors will encounter a period of revival, and it is appropriate to take action in accordance with the spring energy, with a promising harvest expected.

賁　華首山頭，仙道所遊。利以居止，長無咎憂。

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed meets the hexagram of Splendor. The peak of Huashou Mountain is a place where those who cultivate and attain enlightenment rest and dwell; it is suitable to reside here, and there will be no long-term misfortune or worry. This forest is chosen for its superior location and tranquility, offering security and peace. Those who divinate should seek a quiet and secluded place to establish their lives, and by dwelling there long-term, they will naturally avoid calamity and misfortune.

剝　三狐嗥哭，自悲孤獨。野無所由，死於丘室。

The hexagram of Not Yet Achieved corresponds to the hexagram of Reduction. Three foxes howl in sorrow, hurting themselves for being alone; in the vast wilderness, there is no way to go, and they finally die in a cave on a hill. This forest is extremely凶 (dangerous), indicating isolation and no way out. Those who cast this omen should seek help early and prepare an escape route. Traveling alone in a desolate place will surely lead to a desperate situation.

復　火中暑退，求藿其食。商人不至，市空無有。

The hexagram is "Not Yet Completed" changing to "Return." The bright red star appears in the middle of the sky, the heat of summer recedes, and only some beans leaves can be gathered for food; merchants do not come, and the market is empty. The "Book of Songs · The Folk Songs of Bin" says, "In July, the fire star moves." This situation indicates that the season is turning cold and resources are scarce. The person being consulted is waiting for someone who does not arrive and seeking something that is difficult to obtain; it is advisable to plan ahead and prepare supplies.

旡妄　獨立山巔，求麋耕田。草木不闢，秋飢無年。

The hexagram of Not Yet Achieved (未济) combined with the hexagram of No False Movement (旡妄) indicates that someone is standing alone on a mountain top, intending to hunt deer and cultivate land there. The vegetation has not been cleared, and by autumn there is still famine with no harvest. This suggests that the person has chosen an unsuitable location, working hard but achieving nothing. The path selected by the diviner and the current position are not suitable for sustaining life. It is advisable to descend the mountain and choose more fertile land.

大畜　火雖熾，在吾後。寇雖近，在吾右。身安吉，不危殆。（歸妹之震）

The hexagram is "Great Accumulation" from "Not Yet Completed." Although the fire is intense, it is behind me; although the bandits are approaching, they are on my right. Therefore, I am safe and auspicious, not falling into danger. This situation is like a forest where the danger is outside, and by avoiding it properly, one remains safe. The person divining, though surrounded by danger, can remain unharmed as long as they do not face it directly. It is advisable to remain calm and stay in one's position.

頤　□□，貧鬼相賁。無有歡怡，一日九結。（豐之晉）

The hexagram is "Not Yet Achieved" (Wèi Jì) and the image is "Contemplation" (Yí). The state of worry and distress is hard to express, with misfortunes coming to the person in a manner of pretense and show; there is no joy or happiness, and the heart is tied up with nine knots in a single day. This person is suffering from poverty and has troubles that are difficult to resolve. The one casting the divination is currently burdened with worries and has no income, so it is advisable to stabilize basic expenses and gradually untie the knots in the heart.

大過　追亡逐北，呼還幼叔。至山而得，反歸其室。（渙之臨，需之渙）

The hexagram of Great Excess follows the hexagram of Not Yet Completed. It signifies pursuing a fugitive, chasing defeated troops, and calling out along the way to bring back a young younger brother. Pursuing into the mountains, they finally find him and return home together. This indicates that the person in charge has lost something but has regained it, and has been separated but now reunited. Those who have lost someone or something may have hope of recovering them. All matters of pursuit and retrieval can succeed.

坎　銜命辱使，不堪厥事。遂墮落去，更為欺吏。

The hexagram is "Not Yet Completed" (Wèi Jì) and the line is "Water (Kan)." The person was sent on an official mission but failed to fulfill his duty, unable to bear the responsibility assigned to him. As a result, he gradually declined, becoming a petty official who deceives superiors and hides the truth from subordinates. This person lacks the ability and is turning from righteousness to wrongdoing. The one consulting the oracle should assess his own capacity before accepting a position. If he forces himself into a role he is not suited for, he will not accomplish anything and will easily become tainted by bad habits.

離　被珠銜玉，沐浴仁德。應聘唐國，四門穆穆。蟊賊不作，凶惡伏匿。

The hexagram is "Not Yet Completed" and the line is "Fire." The person is adorned with pearls and holds a precious jade in their mouth, bathing in the benevolent grace of virtue; they are invited to the state of Emperor Yao, where the four gates are solemn and orderly. The "Book of Documents · Shun's Classic" states, "Guests come to the four gates, and the four gates are solemn." The harmful pests that destroy crops do not arise, and wicked people remain hidden. This is a great auspicious omen, indicating the person will be appointed to a position, and will achieve both virtue and authority.

咸　機關不便，不能出言。精誠適通，為人所冤。

The hexagram of Uncompleted Affairs followed by the hexagram of Mutual Attraction indicates that the throat and tongue are not functioning smoothly, making it impossible to speak. Even if one has sincere intentions that could be understood, they are still misunderstood and wronged. The person in question has difficulty defending themselves, being sincere yet accused. The one who is divining now has no way to explain themselves, so they should retain evidence and wait for the right time. Trying to clarify too soon may only cause more suspicion.

恆　甕破缶缺，南行凶失。

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed meets the hexagram of Permanence. The jar has already broken, the vessel is already damaged; traveling south will bring misfortune and loss. This indicates that the household's utensils are broken, and movement is not advisable. The person consulting the oracle finds that many of the items used at home are in disrepair and need to be replaced promptly; any plans to travel south should be entirely postponed. Any movement will result in loss.

遯　唇亡齒寒，積日凌根。朽不可用，為身災患。

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed leads to the hexagram of Retreat. When the lips are gone, the teeth become cold. In the "Zuo Zhuan · Xi Gong Wu Year," Gong Ji advised Duke Yu to beware of "lips gone, teeth cold," warning that the loss of one would lead to the suffering of the other. Over time, the cold reaches the roots, causing decay until it can no longer be used, becoming a calamity for oneself. Therefore, for those whose lips and teeth are dependent on each other, the loss of one brings danger to the other. The person interpreting the oracle should protect the one that is dependent on oneself and not remain passive in the face of its loss.

大壯　蒙惑憧憧，不知西東。魁罡指南，告我失中。利以宜止，去國憂患。

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed meets the hexagram of Great Strength. The mind is confused and uncertain, unable to distinguish directions. The Big Dipper's Qiu Gang points to the south, indicating that the center path has been deviated from. At this time, it is advantageous to stop and remain still. If one leaves the country, there will be worries. This hexagram indicates a loss of direction and the need for stillness. The person consulting should avoid traveling far from their homeland and remain in their native place to avoid trouble.

晉　烏鴟搏翼，以避陰賊。盜伺二女，賴厥生福。旱災為疾，君無黍稷。

The hexagram is "Not Yet Completed" (未济) changing to "Progress" (晋). Crows and crows beat their wings to avoid harmful creatures; thieves watch two women but fail to harm them, thus bringing unexpected good fortune. However, there is a drought causing trouble, and the family has no millet or grain to harvest. This forest owner avoids harm and gains fortune but suffers from a poor harvest. The one divining should take precautions to ensure safety, but should plan early for the harvest of fields and property.

明夷　名成德就，項領不試。景公耄□，尼父避去。

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed (未济) and the hexagram of Bright Darkness (明夷). When one's reputation is established and one's virtue and achievements are complete, yet one is like a fine horse with a fat neck who is not appointed, the "Book of Poetry · Xiao Ya · Jie南山" criticizes "Four Oxen with Fat Necks." When Duke Jing of Qi grew old and dull, Confucius had to leave Qi. This is recorded in the "Records of the Grand Historian · Confucius' Family." This situation indicates that the virtuous person is not employed and the wise ruler has declined. The one divining should withdraw early and seek other opportunities.

家人　言與心詭，西行東望。鯀湮洪水，佞賊為禍。

The hexagram of Family appears in the hexagram of Not Yet Completed. Words spoken do not match thoughts in the heart; people walk westward but look eastward. Just as Gun used the method of blocking to control the floods, the Book of Documents, Hongfan, says 'Gun blocked the floods,' which ultimately led to failure, and thus villains became a source of calamity. This person acts inconsistently and uses the wrong method. The one interpreting the divination should be sincere and consistent, guide according to the situation, for blocking will surely lead to collapse.

睽　獫狁匪度，治兵焦穫。伐鎬及方，與周爭疆。元戎其駕，衰及夷王。（一作「以安我王」）

The hexagram is Not Yet Achieved and Separation. The Xianyun people do not abide by laws and regulations, gathering troops in the Jiao Huo area to attack the Hao and Fang regions, contesting territory with the Zhou royal house; large chariots are being prepared to face them. The Book of Songs, Xiao Ya, June, is recounting this event. The decline of the Zhou royal house continued into the reign of the Yi Wang. This forest indicates external invaders pressing in and the royal house gradually declining; the diviner should pay close attention to border defenses, preventing strong neighbors from growing too powerful.

蹇　三火起明，雨滅其光。高位疾顛，驕恣誅傷。

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed meets the hexagram of Obstruction. The fire has just begun to burn, but a rainstorm quickly extinguishes its light; one who is in a high position suddenly falls into ruin, and arrogance and indulgence ultimately lead to punishment and harm. This signifies a forest that was once flourishing but suddenly declines, and arrogance inevitably brings disaster. Those who divinate this should understand that even if they attain high status, they must remain humble and cautious. Once they act recklessly, downfall is imminent.

解　陰涿川決，水為吾祟。使我潰心，毋樹枲麻，居止凶殆。

The hexagram of Not Yet Achieved indicates a situation of resolution. Continuous rain causes rivers to break their banks, and great floods become my misfortune. This disrupts my mental state, prevents me from cultivating hemp in the fields, and makes my dwelling place dangerous and perilous. This forest is greatly unfavorable for water, indicating water disasters that destroy fields and damage dwellings. Those who divinate should beware of floods and floods, and move to higher ground as soon as possible. Agricultural affairs should also be reconsidered.

損　厭浥晨夜，道多湛露。沾我襦褲，重難以步。

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed indicates a situation of loss. In the early morning and at night, the ground is damp. The Book of Songs, Zhaonan, Xinglu says, "The dew is heavy on the path," meaning the road is covered with thick dew. This has soaked my short trousers and long pants, making the clothes heavy and difficult to move. The person in question finds their journey damp and burdensome, and the diviner encountering this situation may face obstacles when going out. It is advisable to travel lightly and slowly, or perhaps wait until the weather clears before setting off.

益　宜行賈市，所求必倍。載喜抱子，與利為友。（大過之恆，巽之損）

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed leading to Benefit indicates it is appropriate to go out and engage in business. The profits sought will certainly double. Returning home full of joy, one will hold a child in their arms, and wealth will accompany them constantly. This is a favorable omen for wealth, indicating great success in business and also the joy of adding a child. Those who cast the divination should actively seek opportunities outside, for remaining inactive will result in losing the benefits.

夬　陰變為陽，女化為男。治道得通，君臣相承。（煥之旅，豐之節，屯之離）

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed meets the hexagram of Decision. Yin energy transforms into Yang energy, and a woman transforms into a man's form; the way of governing the state becomes clear, with the ruler and ministers in harmonious succession. This forest sign indicates a reversal of the situation, a shift from softness to firmness. The person seeking the oracle is currently in a weak position, but this will undergo a fundamental change. At that time, harmony will be achieved between superiors and inferiors, and all decisive actions to eliminate evils can be carried out.

姤　淵蔽杜荊，生蘙山旁。仇敵皆憎，孰肯相迎。

The hexagram is "Not Yet Completed" interacting with "Meeting." The deep abyss is blocked by mulberry trees and brambles, with dense vegetation growing thickly by the mountain; enemies are universally disliked, so who would be willing to come out to meet them. This forest symbolizes obstruction and isolation, with enemies on all sides. The person seeking the oracle currently has poor social connections and their way forward is blocked. They should first clear up old grievances and mend relationships; otherwise, they will meet resistance everywhere.

萃　坐茵乘軒，握德宰臣。虞叔受命，六合和親。

The hexagram of Not Yet Achieved meets the hexagram of Gathering. Sitting on a silk mat and riding in a high carriage, one is a minister of great virtue and authority; Yu Shu accepts his appointment, and thus harmony and affection prevail throughout the heavens and the earth. This forest is very auspicious, indicating receiving a mandate and occupying a prominent position, with the hearts of all directions turning towards one. Those who divinate may expect to be entrusted with important duties and to harmonize all parties, which is an excellent omen for gathering people and achieving great things.

升　雲興蔽日，雨集草木，年茂歲熟。

The hexagram of Not Yet Completed (未济) transforming into Ascending (升) indicates that clouds rise and spread, obscuring the sun, while rain gathers to nourish plants, resulting in abundant harvests and ripe grains. This is favorable for agriculture, signifying the movement of clouds and the distribution of rain, allowing all things to receive sustenance. Those who consult this oracle are at a favorable time for growth and nourishment; they should follow the natural timing and cultivate properly, ensuring a naturally abundant harvest.