Qian 18: Duke Cao Guojiu Meets the Immortals

Duke Cao Guojiu, named Jingxiu, was the younger brother of Empress Cao of Song Renzong. His brother abused power and committed murder, causing the Duke deep shame. He gave away all his wealth and retreated into the mountains. There he met Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin, who asked, "We hear you cultivate the Way—what do you cultivate?" He replied, "I cultivate the Way." The immortals laughed, "Where is the Way?" He pointed to heaven. They said, "Where is heaven?" The Duke suddenly awakened and was inducted into the immortal ranks. This qian signifies letting go of attachments and achieving enlightenment instantly.

This is an upper auspicious qian, like clear breeze and bright moon. In career, letting go of obsession with fame and wealth brings even more, especially beneficial for career changes or starting a business. In love, relationships that are not forced last longer; possessiveness is the destroyer. In wealth, generosity brings blessings; stinginess harms fortune. This qian reminds: if the heart is calculating, everywhere is thorns; if the heart is open, everywhere is pure land.