Wong Tai Sin Sign 81子路射雌The Wise Pheasant's Dance
The pheasant on the mountain bridge is doing well.
By the mountain bridge the pheasant spreads her wings.
Flying high, flying low, she dances and she sings.
Yet in joy and mirth she forgets not to look around.
In time she quits just to avoid the danger of being found.
The Wise Pheasant's Dance
This stick tells the story of Zilu (子路), one of Confucius's most devoted disciples, known for his courage but also his impulsiveness. The reference to 'shooting the female pheasant' comes from an ancient hunting tale where Zilu learned the importance of timing and awareness. In Chinese culture, the pheasant represents both beauty and wisdom—it knows when to display its magnificent plumage and when to retreat to safety. The mountain bridge setting is significant too, representing a crossing point where careful navigation matters most. This story became a metaphor for understanding that even in our moments of greatest joy and success, we must remain alert to changing circumstances. It's about finding the balance between celebrating life's good moments and staying grounded in practical awareness.
Seven Short Readings
- CareerThe pheasant on the mountain bridge isn't punished for her joy.READ
- WealthSteady income holds, but small joyful spends are quietly draining the well.READ
- LoveYour love life is entering a phase where timing becomes everything.READ
- HealthThe pheasant on the mountain bridge is the image to sit with.READ
- StudyYour learning journey right now resembles this clever pheasant.READ
- FamilyYour family is in a season of relative happiness and stability, much like the pheasant dancing on her mountain perch.READ
- The whole situationThe pheasant on the mountain bridge is doing well.READ
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