16 PRECAUTIONS - ENTHUSIASM

A rumble of thunder.

	Thunder Shock
	Earth Devoted

Enthusiasm can lead to a lack of precaution.

This chapter is about both enthusiasm and precautions. Enthusiasm is a good thing providing caution is also present.

The shock of thunder leads to movement. This was developed into music; which began as dancing to drums. Dancing and music can cause emotions in people, which lead to enthusiasm. This is why music has always been used in religious ceremonies and by marching armies.

Confucius said that anybody who could fully understand music could rule the world as though it was spinning in his hand.

So, studying music is not a waste of time, and taking precautions is never a waste of time.

16 LINES

1) 6 at the start

a) Displaying precautions. Misfortune.

b) They are made ineffective.

It is often wise to say little and not reveal oneself. Enthusiasm often leads to excited talk and this can be a grave mistake. Precautions should not be displayed; they should be subtle and held in reserve.

2) 6 in 2nd throw

a) Protection becomes firm as rock. In less than one day. Perseverance brings good fortune.

b) Central and correct.

This describes a person who can spot the first signs of a problem, and knows immediately what action to take, and acts without hesitation. This strong attitude brings good fortune.

Confucius said about this line: "Firm as a rock, what need of a whole day? The judgment can be known. The superior man knows what is hidden and what is evident. He knows weakness; he knows strength as well. Hence the people look up to him."

3) 6 in 3rd throw

a) Halfhearted precautions create remorse. Hesitation brings remorse.

b) The attitude is not appropriate to the situation.

A lack of enthusiasm or too much scepticism can be a mistake; particularly if there is trouble on the way.

4) 9 in 4th throw

a) The source of enthusiasm achieves great things. Doubt not.
You gather friends and comrades like a hair clasp gathers hair.

b) Your will is done in great things.

This line represents a person who arouses enthusiasm amongst others; this makes it possible to do things because helpers are available. Sincerity and a caring attitude towards others leads to firm friendship and great things.

5) 6 in 5th throw

a) Ordeal and disorder. Persevering not dying.

b) The centre is not destroyed.

This means that you suffer various obstructions and problems that prevent you from doing very much. Despite these problems you are still able to get some things done; enough to keep you going. This may be thanks to precautions and provisions made previously.
Alternatively, it may represent someone who you would expect to have given up, by now, but they keep on trying for some reason.

6) 6 at the top

a) Immature precautions. Nothing to be proud of. No blame.

b) How could this last?

A weak person who is over-enthusiastic becomes deluded. When problems occur the delusions are shattered. This is learning the hard way, but there is no blame here, since only they will suffer from the results.