Qian 12: Wu Ji Meets His Master

Wu Ji, a woodcutter in the Western Zhou, accidentally killed a gate guard while carrying firewood through the market. King Wen drew a circle on the ground as a prison and ordered his execution after autumn. Later he met Jiang Taigong, who taught him to worship the Big Dipper, shift stars, and avert the death sentence. Wu Ji became a student and later a general of the Zhou dynasty. This qian signifies meeting a wise master, surviving a desperate situation.

This is an upper qian, like a withered tree meeting spring. In career, despite mistakes or difficulties, a noble mentor appears to turn danger into safety. In love, if obstacles occur, mediation by elders can resolve conflicts. In wealth, after investment mistakes there is still a chance to recover, but expert advice must be followed. This qian suggests: at critical life junctures, a wise guide is needed; humbly seek instruction.