The Sleepy Immortal

Chinese fortune poems, one page each

The 60 Jiazi Fortune Poems

Jiazi Fortune Poem No. 20: Zhu Bian Is Sent to Cold Mountain

Jiazi Fortune Poem No. 20 is the Dingmao poem of the 60-year cycle, and its story is “Zhu Bian Is Sent to Cold Mountain”. In plain words: When things pile up, step back and handle them one at a time. Not there yet doesn't mean never, so no need to sigh.

Dingmao
Your road and your rank have not yet come right.I fear the threads of your fate will cross and tangle.Both houses must guard against loss.Step back for now, and don't sigh over it.

Original Chinese

前途功名未得意只恐命內有交加兩家必定防損失勸君且退莫咨嗟

What it says about…

Overall luck
Aim for steady, not fast. Take things one at a time, and pause on 'sure-win' offers.
Love
If things feel cold, talk it through. If a relationship keeps wearing you out, step back and see clearly.
Business
Slow down on partnerships and contracts. Have someone check the terms, and keep cash on hand.
Work
Raises and promotions may take longer. Keep building your skills while you wait.
Buying a home
Not this one. Next time, check the light, airflow and condition.
Health
Look after both your health and your money. Eat well and stay warm.
Exams
This round may be tough. A less popular major could be a good path.
Legal disputes
Both sides will get hurt. Make peace if you can.
Family
If there's a knot at home, be the first to ask, 'Have you eaten?'

The story behind it

Zhu Bian Is Sent to Cold Mountain

Video

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Questions people ask

Is Jiazi Fortune Poem No. 20 a good fortune?

This set is not ranked from good to bad here. What matters is the reminder: When things pile up, step back and handle them one at a time. Not there yet doesn't mean never, so no need to sigh. The choice is yours.

What does Jiazi Fortune Poem No. 20 say about love?

If things feel cold, talk it through. If a relationship keeps wearing you out, step back and see clearly.

What does Jiazi Fortune Poem No. 20 say in English?

Your road and your rank have not yet come right. / I fear the threads of your fate will cross and tangle. / Both houses must guard against loss. / Step back for now, and don't sigh over it.

Different temples may use slightly different versions.

A fortune poem is a reminder, not an order. The choice is yours.

Chinese poem font: Wang Han-zong Li Shu (GPL v2), with a few added glyphs