Guanyin Oracle · Lot 1

Auspicious

What it means

As the very first lot, it stands for a fresh start with heaven and earth on your side; most things you ask about can go well. Two notes are worth heeding. The verdict says the year's timing has not fully arrived, so good news may come before results do; there is no need to rush. And the last line names the key: uprightness. The smoother things go, the more you should hold to fairness and restraint. A good lot is not only a congratulation but a reminder not to grow careless.

By matter

Line by line

1. 天開地闢結良緣
   As heaven and earth first part and all things begin anew, a good bond is formed.
2. 日吉時良萬事全
   The day is lucky and the hour is right; everything you need is in place.
3. 若得此籤非小可
   Drawing this lot is no small thing; it is a rare and fortunate one.
4. 人行中正帝王宣
   Walk an upright, balanced path, and those above you will notice and call upon you.

Classic commentary

此卦盤古初開天地之象。諸事皆吉也。

急速兆速。年未值時。觀音降筆。先報君知。

The image: Pangu parting heaven from earth at the dawn of creation; all matters are auspicious. The verdict: the good sign comes swiftly. Though the year's full timing has not yet arrived, Guanyin writes first to let you know in advance.

The story · Emperor Taizu of Song Is Robed in Yellow

In 959 Emperor Shizong of the Later Zhou died, leaving a seven-year-old on the throne. Early the next year the general Zhao Kuangyin led troops north; at Chenqiao his officers draped an imperial yellow robe over him and proclaimed him emperor. Returning to Kaifeng, he forbade his men to harm the young emperor or plunder the city, and founded the Song almost without bloodshed. The lot tells this story to say: when the time is ripe, others will lift you up, and what wins their trust is your restraint.

Reference: Lot 1 of the Guanyin Oracle at Mengjia Longshan Temple, Taipei, with its traditional image, verdict, guidance and story. Story summaries are our own.