Wong Tai Sin Sign 37王羲之釣魚Wang Xizhi Goes Fishing
Wang Xizhi could have stayed at court, climbed another rank, signed his name on more decrees.
Under the autumn moon fishing is a pleasure, For the perches here are big and delicious.
Come and fill your cup with my homemade wine, Drink to our friendship, dear friend of mine.
Seven Short Readings
- CareerWang Xizhi did not abandon his brushes when he went out to fish under the autumn moon; he trusted that the work he had already done was steeping somewhere beneath the surface.READ
- WealthSteady income from work already done. Don't chase shortcuts — protect the catch.READ
- LoveWang Xizhi by the river, line in the water, wine cup ready for whoever wanders past — that's the figure this stick puts in front of you, and it's worth sitting with for a moment.READ
- HealthWang Xizhi could have spent every autumn night perfecting another brushstroke.READ
- StudyWang Xizhi by the river, line in the water, autumn moon overhead — this is the calligrapher who burned his own drafts when they failed him, now letting himself catch a fish and pour a cup of wine.READ
- FamilyWang Xizhi could have spent every hour chasing rank at court.READ
- The whole situationWang Xizhi could have stayed at court, climbed another rank, signed his name on more decrees.READ
Wang Xizhi Goes Fishing
Wang Xizhi lived in 4th-century China and remains the most celebrated calligrapher in Chinese history. His flowing brush strokes basically defined what beautiful Chinese writing should look like for the next 1,600 years.
But here's what makes this story interesting — despite being incredibly talented and holding high government positions, Wang Xizhi chose to retire early from court life. He spent his later years enjoying simple pleasures: practicing calligraphy, hosting friends, and yes, fishing under moonlight.
The fishing scene represents his philosophy that true success means knowing when you have enough. Wang Xizhi could have climbed higher in politics, accumulated more wealth, gained more fame.
Instead, he chose contentment. He'd rather catch fish with friends and share homemade wine than chase endless ambitions.
This wasn't about being lazy or giving up — it was about recognizing that life's best rewards often come from appreciating what you already have.
Traditional Notes
These topic-by-topic notes preserve an older reading format. Use them as cultural context while you consider the situation in front of you.
Read the traditional notes
- Geomancy
- blessed with wealth and offspring.
- Lost property
- seek and lost items will be found.
- Personal well-being
- free of sickness but getting rich.
- Future prospect
- a rich harvest brings joy.
- Traveling
- all trips will be satisfying.
Traditional categories translated into English for cultural reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Wong Tai Sin Sign 37 mean?
This sign is graded Very Good. Wang Xizhi could have stayed at court, climbed another rank, signed his name on more decrees.
What does Sign 37 say about love?
Wang Xizhi by the river, line in the water, wine cup ready for whoever wanders past — that's the figure this stick puts in front of you, and it's worth sitting with for a moment. Read the full answer
Is Wong Tai Sin Sign 37 good or bad?
Sign 37 is graded Very Good. This is the second of five grades. The overall direction is favorable, with details still worth checking.
What does Sign 37 say about career?
Wang Xizhi did not abandon his brushes when he went out to fish under the autumn moon; he trusted that the work he had already done was steeping somewhere beneath the surface. Read the full answer
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