This classic story demonstrates the power of synchronistic guidance.
Three thousand years ago, when a tyrant ruled China, a leader of the displaced clan of Chou requested advice from his clan's oracle.
The Chou leader wanted to know what might happen if "someone" tried to overthrow the evil emperor.
On his first visit to the clan oracle, he was encouraged when it said, the strength of Heaven was with the righteous.
Still Thinking About It
But his doubts made him return to the oracle again and again.
On his fourth visit, the shaman who interpreted the oracle said, "You have asked the same question four times. You want to know if it's possible to overthrow the tyrant.
"The first time the oracle told you it is possible because the strength of Heaven is with the righteous.
"The second time the oracle told you it will happen if you respond wholeheartedly to what life is asking of you.
"The third time the oracle said you believe this idea is valuable: it's what you yearn to do - deep inside yourself.
"This time, the oracle is saying there are many reasons why it is possible.
|
"And the oracle invites you to go on making a longer and longer list of reasons, if that's your real purpose."
Crossing The Great River
The leader decided to stop making excuses. He chose to act on his idea.
Soon afterwards, he led his army across the great river that separated his mountain kingdom from the rest of China.
His adventures went well. He continued to ask for the oracle's advice. All of these synchronistic messages were recorded. They advised him on many crucial issues: how to gain allies, escape a trap, push on while trusting that reinforcements would join him.
Completing The Cycle
After gaining control of the empire, he used the oracle's help to create his government.
How should he pick overlords for the territories? Should he marry a powerful woman from the old regime? Was this a good time to return for a visit to his homeland?
The responses the oracle gave him were preserved. Each year, the 64 messages that guided him to success were reenacted at a celebration by the Chou clan.
They called the messages the "Changes of Chou." Today this remarkable collection of synchronistic wisdom is known to the world as the "Book of Changes" - the I Ching.
|
