Qian 99: Guan Zhong and Bao Shuya Divide Gold
Superior Fortune
Story
Guan Zhong and Bao Shuya were partners in business. Guan Zhong took a larger share, but Bao Shuya did not consider him greedy, knowing his family was poor. Later, Bao recommended Guan to be prime minister of Qi. Guan Zhong sighed, "My parents gave me life, but Bao Shuya knows my heart." This sign signifies true friendship that disregards gains and losses.
Oracle Poem
Dividing gold, he took more—was it greed? / Bao Shu knew his heart, did not misread. / If you can find such true friendship in life, / Why not yield profit and play the fool's strife?
Interpretation
Career: A generous partner can help you achieve great things together. Relationships: The bond of soulmates surpasses that of husband and wife, but boundaries must be kept. Wealth: Yielding profit actually brings greater gain; credit generates wealth.
Source：《史记·管晏列传》