Guanyin Oracle Lot 56: An Lushan plots rebellion
The Verse
In a shallow stream, rough stones make the waters roar; strain too hard to steer and you may be hurt.
Find the way that leads to the open river; when wind and tide are calm, all will be well.
Translation by MyFate.AI. The Chinese original is the authoritative text.
AI readingThe road ahead is like a shallow, rocky crossing; struggling and rushing may bring harm. Wait for calm waters before moving on, and you can proceed safely.
The Story Behind the Lot
An Lushan plots rebellion
An Lushan was a military governor of three frontier circuits under Emperor Xuanzong of Tang. Deeply trusted by Xuanzong and his consort Yang Guifei, he wielded immense power but harbored treasonous ambitions. In the fourteenth year of the Tianbao era, he claimed to be punishing Yang Guozhong and raised an army at Fanyang, launching the An Lushan Rebellion. He captured Luoyang and Chang’an, declared himself emperor of Great Yan, and turned the prosperous Tang dynasty toward decline, bringing devastation to the people. Yet the rebellion could not last. An Lushan soon became blind because of his brutality and was killed by his son An Qingxu, dying in disgrace and leaving his name in infamy. Greed and reckless action against the prevailing tide may bring temporary power, but end in ruin. This lot warns the seeker against coveting what is not rightfully theirs or acting rashly against circumstances, lest they bring themselves harm. It advises restraint and staying within one’s proper bounds.
The Story Behind the Lot (alternate version)Another traditional version, for reference
Fan Li Sets Sail
Fan Li was a minister of the state of Yue during the Spring and Autumn period. He helped King Goujian endure hardship and humiliation, defeat Wu, and restore Yue. Having achieved fame and success, he knew that Goujian could share hardship but not prosperity. Fan Li therefore retired at the height of his success, sailed across the lakes in a small boat with Xi Shi, changed his name, and made a fortune in trade. He became known as Tao Zhugong and died peacefully. Fan Li’s wisdom lay in recognizing dangerous waters and knowing when to stop: he did not cling to power, but waited calmly for the right moment to act. This lot advises the seeker to judge the moment carefully. Strenuous efforts to force a result may bring losses, so hold back for now and wait for conditions to calm before pursuing distant journeys or ambitious goals. It is a sign of moderate fortune: remain still and wait for the right time to act.
Readings by Topic
- Career
- Work is currently like steering through a rocky rapid; wait for calm conditions before moving ahead steadily
- Wealth
- Financial prospects are moderate; hard work brings only modest gains, so be prudent
- Relationships
- The match requires careful tending; proceed steadily and it may succeed
- Home and Family
- Fortune at home is steady; a quiet, careful approach will preserve well-being
- Personal Outlook
- Fortune is gradually improving; patience through a stable period will bring good results
- Health
- The condition is gradually turning; follow professional medical advice, rest, and wait patiently for recovery
- Travel
- The traveler will fare well and arrive safely as planned, without hindrance
- Finding Someone
- Wait patiently and keep faith; the missing person will soon be found
- Business
- There is profit to be made; proceed carefully and the deal should go smoothly
- Pregnancy
- A cherished son is expected; mother and child will be safe
- Legal Matters
- You have the stronger case if you are in the right; remain steady and defend your position
- Lost Property
- The lost item is close at hand; look carefully and it can be found
- Relocation
- Avoid a major move for now; repairing and improving the current home is preferable
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