Use of the Changes

1. The holy sages were able to survey all the confused diversities under heaven.  They observed forms and phenomena, and made representations of things and their attributes.  These were called the  Images.

2. The holy sages were able to survey all the movements under heaven.  They contemplated the way in which these movements met and became interrelated, to take their course according to eternal laws.  Then they appended judgments, to distinguish between the good fortune and misfortune indicated.  These were called the Judgments.

3. They speak of the most confused diversities without arousing aversion.  They speak of what is most mobile without causing confusion.

4. This comes from the fact that they observed before they spoke and discussed before they moved.  Through observation and discussion they perfected the changes and transformations.

5. “A crane calling in the shade. Its young answers it.  I have a good goblet.  I will share it with you.”

                  The Master said:  The superior man abides in his room.  If his words are well spoken, he meets with ascent at a distance of more than a thousand miles.  How much more then from near by!  If the superior man abides in his room and his words are not well spoken, he meets with contradiction at a distance of more than a thousand miles.  How much more then from near by!  Words go forth from one’s own person and exert their influence on men.  Deeds are born close at hand and become visible far away.  Words and deeds are the hinge and bowspring of the superior man.  As hinge and bowspring  move, they bring honor or disgrace.  Through words and deeds the superior man moves heaven and earth.  Must one not, then, be cautious?