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

師之家人：配合相迎，利之四鄉。欣喜心釋，所言得當。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of the Family. Marriage is harmonious, with mutual acceptance and wedding celebrations, benefiting all around. The heart is joyful and doubts are dispelled, with words spoken being appropriate. The hexagram of the Family signifies harmony within the family, and internal harmony leads to external smoothness. This divination indicates a suitable marriage, proper speech, benefits from all directions, and great auspiciousness.

師之睽：清人高子，久屯外野。道遙不歸，思我慈母。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Estrangement. A group of people from a clear town and their commander Gao Ke have been stationed for a long time in the wilderness outside the city. The poem "Clear People" from the Book of Songs, Zheng Wind, is a satire on Duke Wen Gong of Zheng who sent Gao Ke to garrison by the river but did not recall him for a long time. The road is distant and they cannot return home, missing their kind and loving mother. Estrangement signifies separation; when the ruler and minister abandon each other, the soldiers lose their loyalty. This divination indicates prolonged military service without return, difficulty in returning to one's parents, and an ominous outcome.

師之蹇：武庫軍府，甲兵所聚，非裡邑居，不可舍止。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Obstruction. A military storehouse and general's office are places where armor and weapons are gathered, not places for people to live or stay overnight. The hexagram of Obstruction signifies difficulty in movement, indicating that one is in an inappropriate place and any action will bring misfortune. This divination suggests that the subject is in an unsuitable situation and should leave quickly, which is ominous.

師之解：三德五材，和合四時。陰陽順序，國無咎災。

The hexagram of Military Campaign transforms into the hexagram of Resolution. The three virtues of uprightness, firm strength, and gentle strength, along with the five materials of metal, wood, water, fire, and earth, are harmonized and combined within the four seasons. Yin and yang proceed in order, and the state will have no misfortune or calamity. The Book of Documents, Hong Fan, speaks of the three virtues, and the Zuo Zhuan, Xiang Gong Twenty-Seven, states, "Heaven produces the five materials, and the people use them together." The hexagram of Resolution signifies the dispersion of dangers and difficulties. When virtues and materials are used together, calamities will be resolved. This divination indicates that all matters will be in harmony, the country will be prosperous and the people will be secure, which is highly auspicious.

師之損：解衣毛羽，飛入大都。晨門戒守，鄭忽失家。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Reduction. He took off his clothes and put on feathers, flying into the great city; the gatekeeper on duty was on high alert, and Zheng's Prince Zhuo finally lost his state and family. The "Zuo Zhuan · Huang Gong Eleventh Year" records the incident of Zheng's Prince Zhuo fleeing to Wei. Reduction means decrease; once one loses his position, the loss is great. This omen indicates a person will have to flee to another country, lose his official position and family, which is ominous.

師之益：削根燒株，不生肌膚。病在心腹，日以焦枯。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Gain. The roots of the tree have been cut off and the stump has been burned, so no new flesh can grow. The disease is rooted in the internal organs, growing more severe day by day. The hexagram of Gain originally signifies increase, but since the fundamental essence has been damaged, there is no way to restore it. When asking about illness, this indicates the disease has reached the root, becoming increasingly critical, which is a great misfortune.

師之夬：文山紫芝，雍梁朱草。生長和氣，福祿來處。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of决 (Decisive). On the mountain, a purple spiritual mushroom grows, and in Youzhou and Liangzhou, red grass grows. They arise from the harmonious qi of heaven and earth, bringing blessings and good fortune. Ancients regarded red grass and spiritual mushrooms as auspicious signs of a ruler's virtue reaching its peak, as mentioned in the "White Tiger Classic · Sealing and Propitiation." The hexagram of Decisive mainly signifies the removal of wicked ministers, and once the wicked are removed, harmonious qi naturally arises. The divination indicates the appearance of auspicious signs and the arrival of blessings and good fortune, which is very favorable.

師之姤：多栽重負，捐棄於野。予母誰子，但自勞苦。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Meeting. Carrying too much and being overburdened, one can only discard things in the wilderness; raising a child for the mother but not knowing whose child it is, one toils in vain. Meeting refers to an unexpected encounter; if one does not act within one's capacity, then when encountering matters, one will abandon them immediately. This divination indicates that one will suffer loss due to greed for excess, and toil without success, which is ominous.

師之萃：鳧雁啞啞，以水為家。雌雄相和，心志娛樂，得其歡欲。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Accumulation. Wild geese and swans call out in harmony, considering the waters their home; male and female accompany each other, their hearts joyful and content, fulfilling their desires. Accumulation signifies gathering; like kind gather together and each finds its proper place, thus bringing joy. When asking about marriage, it indicates harmony; when asking about the family dwelling, it indicates peace and happiness, which is very auspicious.

師之升：耳目盲聾，所言不通。佇立以泣，事無成功。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Ascending. Eyesight is lost, hearing is gone, and words cannot be understood by each other; standing for a long time in silence and weeping secretly, the matter will ultimately not be accomplished. Ascending signifies progress, but if there is obstruction above and below, then progress cannot occur. This omen indicates that communication is blocked, aspirations cannot be realized, and all things will be unsuccessful, which is ominous.

師之困：天宮列宿，五神所舍。宮闕堅固，君安其居。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Difficulty. The celestial palaces and the star mansions are arranged in order, being the dwelling places of the five directional deities; the palaces and towers are strong and unshakable, and the sovereign resides securely within them. The hexagram of Difficulty signifies a state of hardship, yet if one's dwelling is firm, then even in hardship there is no danger. This omen indicates a solid foundation and a secure position, which is auspicious.

師之井：范子妙材，戮辱傷膚，然後相國，封為應侯。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of the Well. Fan Sui had extraordinary talent, yet he first suffered severe punishment and humiliation, even causing physical injury. Later, he entered the state of Qin and became the prime minister, being granted the title of Ying Hou. The Records of the Grand Historian, in the section on Fan Sui and Cai Ze, records his leaving Wei to enter Qin and eventually becoming prime minister. The Well hexagram signifies nourishing people and its virtue is not exhausted. The virtuous person, although temporarily in hardship, will ultimately be employed. This divination indicates first humiliation followed by honor, great potential realized late in life, initially ominous but ultimately great good fortune.

師之革：秋冬探巢，不得鵲雛。銜指北去，慚我少夫。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Revolution. In autumn and winter, going to dig a bird's nest and failing to catch the young magpie; one can only hold one's finger and walk northward, feeling ashamed before one's young husband. Revolution signifies change, but acting against the season leads to nothing. The divination indicates an inopportune time, returning empty-handed, and a loss of face, which is ominous.

師之鼎：子畏於匡，厄困陳蔡。德行不危，竟脫厄害。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Cauldron. Confucius was besieged in the area of Kuang, and later faced difficulties between the states of Chen and Ci. The Analects, in the chapter Zihan, records 'Master Kong was afraid in Kuang,' and in the chapter Weilingsheng, it says 'in Chen, there was no food, and the followers were ill, unable to rise.' His virtue was upright and he did not waver because of this, eventually escaping from the difficulties. The hexagram of Cauldron signifies nurturing virtuous people and achieving new accomplishments; once virtue and learning are established, dangers and difficulties can be overcome. The divination indicates that the subject is in a dangerous situation but will ultimately escape, beginning with misfortune and ending with good fortune.

師之震：鴻飛在陸，公出不復。仲氏任止，伯氏客宿。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Thunder. Wild geese fly and land on the land, the master goes out and does not return. The line nine in the third of the hexagram of Gradual says, "Wild geese gradually land on the land, the husband's expedition does not return," which is exactly this situation. The younger brother takes charge of family affairs and remains at home, while the elder brother stays away overnight. Thunder represents movement; when each moves separately, the family is separated. If asking about a traveler, it indicates a long absence; if asking about the family home, it indicates family members being separated, which is ominous.

師之艮：鶴鳴九皋，避世隱居。抱朴守真，竟不隨時。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Mountain. A crane calls from a distant and secluded place, its voice reaching the heavens, yet it remains hidden and reclusive. The poem "Heavenly Roar of the Crane" from the Book of Songs describes its voice spreading far and wide, while the Dao De Jing says, "Seeing simplicity and holding to purity, reducing private desires and reducing selfish desires." He maintains his true nature and never yields to the flow of the world. Mountain represents stillness; stopping at the right place brings perfection of virtue. This divination indicates a person who is reclusive and upholds integrity, achieving high reputation while maintaining inner peace, which is auspicious.

師之漸：舜升大禹，石夷之野。徵詣玉闋，拜治水土。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Gradual Progress. 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 govern the land and water. The hexagram of Gradual Progress signifies proceeding step by step. The virtuous rise from below and achieve success in order. If one is divined, it indicates ascending in rank and receiving a mandate to undertake responsibilities, which is auspicious.

師之歸妹：左輔右弼，金玉滿匱。常盈不亡，富如厫倉。

The hexagram changes to Guimei. On the left there are auxiliary ministers, on the right there are assistants, and gold and jade fill the chests. It is always full without loss, wealthy like Ao Cang. Ao Cang was a major state granary during the Qin and Han dynasties, as mentioned in the "Records of the Grand Historian: Biography of Li Shen." Guimei signifies marriage, and obtaining a virtuous spouse and good advisors leads to family prosperity. This divination indicates assistance from a nobleman, abundant wealth, and great fortune.

師之豐：崔嵬北嶽，天神貴客。衣冠不已，蒙被恩德。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Abundance. The lofty northern mountain, Mount Heng, is the abode of heavenly spirits and noble guests; scholars of virtue come in a continuous stream, and all receive blessings and grace. Abundance signifies grandeur; when virtuous men gather, their grace extends to all directions. This omen indicates association with noble persons and widespread blessings, which is very auspicious.

師之旅：空巢注豬，獖彘不到。張弓祝雞，雄父飛去。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Travel. The empty pen is filled with water waiting for the pig to come, but the castrated pig does not come. Drawing the bow to invite the pheasant to come, the male pheasant flies away instead. Traveling abroad without proper method leads to nothing gained. This divination indicates wrong methods and fruitless efforts, resulting in misfortune.

師之巽：胡蠻戎狄，大陰所積，涸凍冰寒，君子不存。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Wind. Hu, Man, Rong, and Di, these distant lands, are places where extremely cold and阴 energy gathers; water sources dry up, and there is severe frost and cold, so the gentleman would not wish to stay there. Wind represents entering and following, but if the place entered is unsuitable, there can be no peace. The divination indicates an environment that is dangerous and unsuitable for long stay, which is ominous.

師之兌：甘露醴泉，太平機關。仁德感應，歲樂民安。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Joyful Meeting. Sweet dew falls from heaven and sweet spring water arises from the earth, which marks the beginning of a peaceful era; when benevolence and virtue reach, heaven and humanity respond in harmony, resulting in abundant harvests and people's peace and happiness. The "Book of Rites: The Rituals of the Great Harmony" regards heavenly sweet dew and earthly sweet spring water as auspicious signs of the Great Unity. Joyful Meeting represents harmony and joy, with both above and below being pleased, leading to harmonious seasons and abundant harvests. This divination indicates the simultaneous appearance of auspicious signs and universal peace and joy, which is highly favorable.

師之渙：惡來呼伯，慎驚外客。甲守閉宅，以備凶急。臨折之憂，將滅無災。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Dispersal. A wicked person like E Lai is summoning accomplices, so one must be cautious and vigilant against disturbing outsiders. Arm soldiers, close the gates, to guard against sudden dangers. E Lai was a cunning minister of King Zhou of Shang, known for his strength and slander, as mentioned in the "Records of the Grand Historian: Qin Ben Ji." Although there is concern of near collapse, the danger will eventually subside without causing disaster. Dispersal means separation; if one is prepared in advance, the separation will not lead to chaos. This divination indicates that external troubles are coming, but with proper preparation, there will be no disaster. It signifies first danger followed by safety.

師之節：日月相望，光明盛昌。三聖茂功，仁德大隆。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Moderation. The sun and moon are far apart yet shining brightly, flourishing and prosperous; three sages have abundant achievements, and benevolence is extremely flourishing. Moderation governs adherence to measures and regulations; the sun and moon follow their courses in order, thus their light never ceases. This divination indicates flourishing virtue and accomplishments, prosperity of family and state, a great blessing.

師之中孚：葛藟蒙棘，華不得實。饞佞亂政，使恩壅塞。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes to the hexagram of Sincerity. Vines entwine and cover thorns, blooming but failing to bear fruit; flatterers and villains disrupt the government, causing the king's grace to be blocked and unable to reach below. The poem "Gelui" from the Book of Songs, part of the Wang Feng section, uses the spreading vines as a metaphor to express the pain of being homeless and displaced. The hexagram of Sincerity values genuine communication and trust, but flattery and deceit in between block the connection between above and below. The divination indicates something that is named but not real, with the path of grace obstructed, resulting in misfortune.

師之小過：鄰不我顧，而望玉女。身多癩疾，誰肯媚者。

The hexagram changes to the hexagram of Small Excess. Neighbors do not wish to care for me, yet I foolishly gaze at a woman as beautiful as jade; I have suffered from many evil sores and diseases, and who would then come near me and love me? Small Excess advises to be content with small things, not to measure one's own capacity and make reckless demands, which would bring disgrace. This divination indicates isolation without support, foolish longing, and unfulfilled desires, which is ominous.

師之既濟：精誠所至，神為之輔。德教尚忠，彌世長久。三聖尚功，多受福祉。

The hexagram of Military Campaign changes into the hexagram of Perfect Stillness. When sincere intentions reach, the spirits come to assist; when virtue and moral teachings promote loyalty and trust, they endure through generations without decline. Three sages value achievements, thus receiving abundant blessings. The "Zhuangzi · Yu Fu" says, "Truth is the ultimate expression of sincerity." Perfect Stillness is the hexagram of completed affairs; maintaining sincerity ensures longevity and stability. The divination indicates sincerity that moves spirits, a long-lasting family lineage, and deep blessings, which is very auspicious.

師之未濟：鑽木取火，掘地索泉。主母飢渴，手為心福。

The military campaign hexagram changes to the hexagram of things not yet accomplished. Drilling wood to obtain fire, digging the earth to find spring water; the mother is just hungry and thirsty, relying entirely on her own hands to create blessings for her wishes. The Great Treatise of the Zhou Changes records the deeds of ancient sages in making and using tools, drilling flint to obtain fire being one of them. The hexagram of things not yet accomplished represents a matter that has not yet been completed. By working hard and striving on one's own, what has not yet been achieved can eventually be accomplished. This divination indicates that the subject relies on his own efforts, diligence can resolve difficulties, and it is auspicious.

比之比：鹿得美草，鳴呼其友。九族和睦，不憂飢乏。長子入獄，霜降族哭。

A deer finds abundant water and grass, then calls out to its companions to share the food, which is exactly the harmonious image described in the "Small Odes · Deer Cry" from the Book of Songs. Thus, the nine clans become close and harmonious, and there is no fear of famine or disaster. However, if the eldest son's sons are imprisoned, during the time of frost descent, the whole family can only weep together. First good fortune, then misfortune; even with close family ties, one must still beware of calamities from legal troubles.

比之乾：繼祖復宗，追明成康。光照萬國，享世長久。

Continuing the legacy of ancestors, reviving the ancestral temple, and looking back to the peaceful governance of King Cheng of Zhou and King Kang of Zhou, when punishments were not needed for over forty years. The virtue and grace illuminate all nations, and the state and family enjoy long-lasting prosperity. This person, Lin Chunjie, is suitable for maintaining the established order and inheriting the family's achievements. In all matters, he can rely on the remaining blessings of his ancestors.

比之坤：麒子鳳雛，生長家國。和氣所居，康樂無憂，邦多聖人。

The son of a qilin and the young of a phoenix grow up in the land of the state and country. Ancient people regarded qilin and phoenix as auspicious creatures of peace and prosperity; their appearance signified the birth of sages. A harmonious atmosphere gathers in the place where they reside, bringing peace and happiness to all levels of society, and leading to the emergence of virtuous and wise individuals in the country. This is a favorable omen, indicating prosperity in childbirth, the promotion of capable people, and the flourishing of the family.

比之屯：取火流泉，釣鰟山顛。魚不可得，火不肯燃。

Trying to get fire from a flowing spring and fishing for loaches at the mountain top, the direction of effort is entirely opposite to the desired outcome. The fish cannot be caught, and the fire cannot be lit. This indicates that the person's quest is misguided and their plans are going in opposite directions. Even with great effort, nothing will be achieved. It is advisable to change direction promptly.

比之蒙：彭生為娛，白虎行乾。盜堯衣裳，桀蹠荷兵。青禽照火，三日夷傷。

Qi had a strong man named Peng Sheng who served the king for pleasure, but he was eventually executed for pulling the king of Lu, Huan Gong, to his death. The White Tiger appeared in the sky, indicating a凶 star was in charge. Someone who stole Yao's clothes and hat but lacked Yao's virtue, like Xia Jie and Dao Zhi, took up arms to commit violence. A blue bird flew toward the fire and was burned to death within three days. This forest is dangerous, indicating those who usurp power and act aggressively will ultimately meet their demise.

比之需：黍稷醇醴，敬奉山宗。神嗜飲食，甘雨嘉降。黎庶蕃殖，獨蒙福祉。

Prepare fine millet, jujubes, delicious dishes, and sweet wine, and offer them respectfully to the mountain and river deities and ancestral spirits. The "Book of Songs · Xiao Ya · Chu Ci" says, "The gods delight in food and drink." After the deities are pleased and receive the offerings, they send down sweet rain, allowing the people to flourish and prosper. Therefore, this forest's master has proper worship and successful rain invocation; one should remain patient and wait for the harvest.

比之訟：李花再實，鴻飛降集。仁哲權輿，蔭國受福。

The blossoms of the persimmon tree bloom again and bear fruit once more, and geese fly in groups to rest, all signs of auspicious omens. The virtuous and wise individuals thus begin (「qianyu」 meaning the beginning or萌芽) to cultivate their virtue, benefiting the country and sharing in the blessings. This forest signifies the emergence of capable talents, with future prosperity awaiting. Although there may be disputes, they will ultimately end in harmony.

比之師：千歲之墟，大兵所屠。不見子都，城空無家。

A thousand years old city has become a ruin, solely because of the army's passage and massacre. There are no longer any men as described in the "Songs of Zheng" in the Book of Poetry, and the city is now empty, with every family without a master. This is a great凶 (evil omen), indicating military disaster, dispersion, and the cessation of human presence. It is not suitable for travel or conflict.

比之小畜：公子王孫，把彈攝丸。發輒有得，室家饒足。

The noble family's sons and grandsons hold bows and load arrows, and with one throw they catch something, bringing prosperity to the household. The forest owner has some accumulation, and by applying his talents where they are most suitable, he sees results. Matters of seeking wealth, hunting, and planning small affairs all go smoothly. However, the gains come from leisurely pursuits, and are not suitable for great undertakings.

比之履：驪姬饞喜，與二嬖謀，譖殺恭子，賊害忠孝。申生以縊，重耳奔逃。

King Jin Xian Gong's favored concubine Li Ji slandered to gain his favor, conspiring secretly with two court favorites, You Shi and Liang Wu, to falsely accuse the crown prince Shen Sheng. This led to the persecution of loyal and filial individuals. Eventually, Shen Sheng committed suicide by hanging himself, while Prince Chong Er fled abroad for nineteen years. This is a great凶 omen, indicating internal favorites scheming and brothers turning against each other. One must be cautious of those close to them.

比之泰：長生無極，子孫千億。柏柱栽青，堅固不傾。

Continuous growth without end, enduring endlessly, with children multiplying in the thousands. This phrase originates from the "Great Odes" of the "Book of Songs," "Jiale," which says, "children in the thousands." The pillars made of cypress wood have deep roots that remain evergreen, firm and unshakable. This forest is extremely auspicious, indicating family prosperity and a solid foundation, suitable for establishing a career and for childbearing.

比之否：失意懷憂，如幽狴牢。亡子喪夫，附托寄居。

One's wishes are unfulfilled, filled with deep sorrow, like being imprisoned in an ancient jail called "Bì". Losing both son and husband, one can only rely on others and live a life of dependence. This is a凶林, indicating loneliness and lack of support, being trapped in difficulties, and one should be patient and content with one's fate, avoiding rash actions.

比之同人：仁智隱伏，麟不可得。龍蛇潛藏，虛居堂室。

A person of benevolence, virtue, and wisdom remains in seclusion, not emerging from retirement. Even the qilin, a sacred beast, cannot obtain such a person. Dragons and snakes remain coiled and hidden, with the hall and chamber empty and unoccupied. This indicates that the forest is ruled by a virtuous person who has retreated, and the time is not yet ripe. Seeking such a person or seeking help from them is difficult to obtain a response. It is advisable to maintain self-restraint and wait for the right time, rather than forcing matters.

比之大有：列結累累，締結難解。嫫母衒嫁，媒不得坐，自為身禍。

The knots are tied one after another, tightly bound and hard to untangle. It is said that the wife of the Yellow Emperor, Momo, was extremely ugly but boasted everywhere to seek a husband, causing the matchmakers to be troubled and restless. In the end, she brought upon herself her own misfortune. This person is entangled in confusion, boasting and bringing disgrace upon themselves. In all matters, it is not advisable to force others to agree.

比之謙：蜩飛墜木，不毀頭足。保我羽翼，復歸其室。

A cicada flies down from the tree and falls to the ground, but does not injure its head or feet, preserving its wings, and then flies back to its nest. This omen indicates that the person in charge of the forest may encounter setbacks but will not suffer actual harm. By being humble and retreating to preserve oneself, they can return intact. This is a sign of losing something and then regaining it, leaving and then returning.

比之豫：陳媯敬仲，兆興齊姜。乃適營丘，八世大昌。

Chen's Prince Gong Wan (posthumously Duke Jingzhong) fled to Qi to escape difficulties, and the omens from divination had already foretold that he would rise to prominence in Qi. When he arrived at Yingqiu, the capital of Qi, his lineage eventually flourished through eight generations, ultimately replacing the Qi dynasty. This example shows that distant migration leads to acquiring land, and future descendants achieve great success. Traveling and relocating can ultimately bring great benefit.

比之隨：過時不歸，雌雄苦悲。徘徊外國，與母分離。

After the expected return date, the person still does not come home, with the male and female birds each crying out in sorrow. The person wanders and lingers in a foreign land, separated from their mother for a long time. This forest indicates that the traveler will not return and communication is cut off, symbolizing separation and sorrow. Asking about a distant journey or the return date is unfavorable.

比之蠱：齊魯爭言，戰於龍門。構怨結禍，三世不安。

Qi and Lu fought a battle at Longmen due to a verbal dispute, resulting in a grudge and calamity that affected three generations. This indicates that the owner of this forest has disputes over words, accumulating resentment that leads to disaster. Legal disputes should be resolved early to prevent harm to descendants.

比之臨：府藏之富，王以賑貸。捕魚河海，苟願多得。

The state treasury is full, and the king opens the granary to provide relief and loans to the people. Also, by fishing in rivers and the sea, one can obtain much if they are willing to put in effort. This forest has benevolence above and substantial profit below. It is favorable for seeking wealth and seeking help, and it is appropriate to both give generously and take generously.

比之觀：鳴鶴北飛，下就稻池。鱣鮪鰉鯉，眾多饒有，一狗獲兩，利得過倍。

A crane called and flew north, landing by a pond in a rice field. The pond contained various fish such as zhan, wei, huang, and li, in great abundance. A single cast of the net yielded double the catch, resulting in profit exceeding the initial investment by double. This forest is highly auspicious, indicating success in seeking wealth and profit, and ensuring gains wherever one goes. It is favorable for commerce and fishing activities.

比之噬嗑：蒼梧鬱林，道易利通。元龜象齒，寶貝南金，為吾福功。

The region of Lingnan around Cangwu and Yulin has smooth and accessible roads, allowing the acquisition of valuable goods such as large turtle shells, elephant tusks, precious shells, and southern gold. These can contribute to my fortune and achievements. This forest indicates great benefit from long journeys and trade. Although there may be difficulties in making decisive judgments (phoenix claw), ultimately one will achieve success and gain treasures.

比之賁：兩火爭明，雖斗不傷。分離且忍，全我弟兄。

Two flames compete in brightness, though they fight against each other they do not cause mutual harm. They part ways, each showing restraint, thus preserving their brotherly bond. This omen indicates that siblings may compete but without great harm; it is advisable to retreat and live apart, rather than stay together and compete for superiority.

比之剝：伯夷叔齊，貞廉之師。以德防患，憂禍不存。

Bo Yi and Shu Qi renounced the throne and refused to eat millet from the Zhou dynasty, serving as a model of steadfast integrity and purity. By cultivating virtue, they prevented calamities, and worries and misfortunes naturally dissipated. Though this forest is in a time of decline, by maintaining principles and upholding integrity, one can avoid disaster. It is characterized by simplicity and hardship, without any wrongdoing.

比之復：季去我東，發櫛如蓬。展轉空床，內懷憂傷。

The younger brother is leaving eastward, leaving behind those who are disheveled and unmindful of grooming. Alone in an empty bed, he tosses and turns, filled with sorrow. This forest symbolizes separation and longing, solitude and loneliness. Inquiries about marriage or reunion are not yet timely.

比之無妄：百足俱行，相輔為強。三聖翼事，王室寵光。

The centipede moves all its legs together, supporting each other to become strong, as said in the Shuowen Jiezi, "A centipede, even when dead, does not become stiff." Three sages assisting the king in his affairs bring honor and glory to the royal house. This forest represents collective effort and the presence of capable advisors, suitable for cooperative endeavors.

比之大畜：壅遏堤防，水不得行。火盛陽光，陰霓伏藏，退還其鄉。

The embankments are built high, blocking the water channels and preventing the water from flowing freely. The fire is strong and the sunlight is intense, so the dark clouds and rainbows can only retreat to their original places. This indicates that the forest is dominated by yang, restraining yin, accumulating strength without releasing it. What is sought is temporarily obstructed, so it is advisable to prepare and wait for the right time rather than forceful action.

比之頤：滕蛇乘龍，年歲飢凶，民食草蓬。

The snake spirit ascends on clouds and rides a dragon, which is an omen of supernatural occurrences. However, the year brings famine and danger, and the people can only gather wild herbs to survive. This forest appears prosperous but lacks real sustenance; its resources are insufficient for support. Asking about the harvest and about food and clothing all indicate inadequacy.

比之大過：鉛刀攻玉，堅不可得。盡我筋力，胝繭為侯。

Using a soft and dull lead knife to carve hard jade will ultimately fail to achieve any results. Exhausting one's entire physical strength, with hands and feet developing calluses, one can only be known as someone who toils with calloused hands and feet. This indicates that the person in charge is not suitable for the task, and efforts will be in vain. Those with limited strength should consider their responsibilities carefully and act accordingly.

比之坎：恆山浦壽，高邑所在。陰氣下淋，洪水不處，牢人開戶。

The area around Hengshan Mountain, known for its longevity, is where Gaoyi is located. Yin energy descends and transforms into excessive rain, causing floods that make it impossible to live anywhere. Even prisoners in the jail are released. This forest is the main cause of water disasters and the collapse of old order, being in a dangerous position of Kan water. One should first plan to seek a place to escape.

比之離：比目四翼，來安我國。福善上堂，與我同床。

The fish swim side by side, forming four wings together, coming to stabilize my state. The deities of virtue and goodness enter my hall and share my bed. This forest is very auspicious, indicating the acquisition of a spouse and support, with harmony inside and outside, making marriage and partnership matters particularly suitable.

比之咸：杜口結舌，心中怫鬱。去菑患生，莫告所冤。

Unable to speak, the tongue is tied, with a feeling of oppression and blockage in the chest. Old troubles have just departed, yet new troubles arise. There is injustice but no way to appeal. The person represented by the forest sign has difficulty expressing themselves, and there is no response from the heavens. Inquiries about lawsuits or appeals have no way forward. It is advisable to remain quiet and wait for changes.

比之恆：牽尾不前，逆理失臣，忠莫往來，惠朔以奔。

Pulling the ox's tail to move it forward, the ox refuses to go; acting against reason leads to loss of followers. The loyal and trustworthy person ceases to come and go, and Duke Hui of Wei, Shuo, finally flees to another country, as recorded in the "Zuo Zhuan." This ruler's actions are against the trend, with upper and lower hearts apart; holding fast to his way leads to harm.