Guanyin Oracle Lot 8: Fan Zhongyan studies on gruel
The Verse
Long nurtured, pine and cypress stand against the winter cold;
Neither rain nor snow, nor wind nor frost, can break them.
One day they will be called to serve a mighty purpose,
Winning honor as the timber that upholds the state.
Translation by MyFate.AI. The Chinese original is the authoritative text.
AI readingLike pine and cypress in winter, you can withstand wind and frost without breaking. The hardship and experience of your early years prepare you to become a person of great ability and responsibility. Although you face trials now, your foundations are strong. Sustained perseverance offers the prospect of distinction and prosperity.
The Story Behind the Lot
Fan Zhongyan studies on gruel
Fan Wenzheng was the distinguished Northern Song statesman Fan Zhongyan. His father died when he was very young, and his family was poor. As a youth, he lodged in a monastery and devoted himself to study. Each day, he cooked only one pot of thick porridge. Once it had cooled and set, he cut it into four portions, eating two in the morning and two in the evening, accompanied by finely chopped pickled vegetables. This is the origin of the story of chopping pickles and dividing porridge. Despite such austere living conditions, he remained untroubled and studied diligently day and night, continuing through summer heat and winter cold. Years of hard study eventually brought great accomplishment. Fan Zhongyan rose to become vice councilor, led the Qingli Reforms, and became a pillar of the state. His enduring fame also rests on his ideal of being the first to worry over the world's troubles and the last to enjoy its pleasures. The story signifies that even in poverty and hardship, firm resolve and diligent self-discipline can build the depth of character and ability needed for eventual distinction and success. It is a most auspicious omen of hardship giving way to happiness and great ability reaching fulfillment, encouraging people to remain steadfast in poverty and pursue their aspirations.
The Story Behind the Lot (alternate version)Another traditional version, for reference
Pei Du Returns the Belt
Pei Du was a celebrated chief minister of the Tang dynasty. Before he achieved distinction, he experienced poverty and hardship. A physiognomist examined his face and told him that vertical lines running into his mouth foretold a possible death by starvation. One day, while visiting Xiangshan Temple, Pei Du found a valuable jade belt; in another version, he found several jeweled belts. Rather than keep it, he remained at the spot and patiently waited for its owner. The owner proved to be a woman whose father had been unjustly imprisoned. She had sold the family's possessions and borrowed the precious belt to ransom her father's life, but accidentally lost it on the way and was frantic with distress. Pei Du returned everything to her, rescuing her in her hour of need. This good deed earned him great moral merit. When the physiognomist saw him again, he was astonished to find that Pei Du's appearance had changed and the ominous lines had disappeared. He now predicted that Pei Du would attain high office. Pei Du did indeed rise to the highest ranks of government, remaining true to his principles through every trial. The story signifies that honesty in returning lost valuables and the accumulation of good deeds will bring generous rewards. Those who are kindhearted and quietly cultivate virtue will ultimately enjoy lasting blessings and prosperity. It is a highly auspicious omen of goodness rewarded.
Readings by Topic
- Career
- Your foundations are as firm as pine and cypress. Promotion is possible, with a helpful person offering support and guidance.
- Wealth
- Returns are moderate but steady, providing a lasting and reliable income.
- Relationships
- Marriage prospects are favorable. A dependable partner and an enduring bond grow stronger with time.
- Home and Family
- The household prospers and becomes more secure through life's trials. All matters are auspicious.
- Personal Outlook
- Your path is favorable. Experience builds your abilities, and the omen indicates great accomplishment without calamity or misfortune.
- Health
- Rest calmly and take care during recovery. Your underlying strength offers hope of gradual improvement. Continue following medical advice; serious illness requires professional medical care.
- Travel
- Letters and messages can reach you on a distant journey. Travel is peaceful and proceeds smoothly.
- Finding Someone
- The person you seek will return soon. A reunion may be expected.
- Business
- Business flourishes. Transactions are sound, and profits can continue over the long term.
- Pregnancy
- The omen heralds the joyful birth of a son, with health and safety for mother and child.
- Legal Matters
- Reason and evidence support your position. Upright conduct places you at an advantage.
- Lost Property
- The lost item is still available to be found. A careful search can recover it.
- Relocation
- Moving is highly auspicious. A new home can establish firm foundations and strengthen the household's fortunes.
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