Qian 17: Cao Cao Speaks of Plums

Cao Cao led his army on a march, and water was scarce; the soldiers were all thirsty. Cao Cao pointed ahead and said, "There is a large plum orchard ahead, sour and sweet, able to quench thirst." Hearing this, the soldiers’ mouths watered, temporarily alleviating their thirst. They then managed to reach a water source. This qian signifies quenching thirst by thinking of plums—drawing a cake to satisfy hunger. Though it eases the immediate crisis, it is no long-term solution.

This is a medium qian, like a cake reflected in a mirror. In career, you may face leaders or projects that promise big rewards but deliver only talk; though motivational for a time, substantive benefits must be secured. In love, the other party makes many promises but takes few actions; observe actual behavior. In wealth, opportunities seem to exist but watch for empty promises. This qian suggests: spiritual encouragement is important, but practical problems must ultimately be solved.