Rain and storms
Traditional meaning and context
In the Zhougong manual, skies clearing after rain are associated with worries passing, while rain encountered on a journey is linked to food and drink. Thunder can accompany advancement or a favourable move. The setting and change in weather matter more than a simple rain-means-sadness rule. Lightning illuminating the dreamer is associated with joyful good fortune; a roaring wind with news from afar.
Rain disperses and the sky clears
The text links this clearing with the departure of many worries.
Meeting rain while travelling along a road
The manual gives an association with food and drink.
Lightning illuminates you
The text associates the light falling on the dreamer with an auspicious celebration.
The wind roars
This particular sound is associated with news from a distance.
Feeling afraid at the sound of thunder
This specific entry is associated with a favourable change of residence.
These are historical omen associations, not evidence of what will happen to you or your family.
MingSez’s reading
We look at exposure and shelter: walking willingly in rain, getting caught without protection and watching a storm pass are different experiences. Clearing weather can suggest relief in our reading; an ongoing storm can focus attention on waiting, adapting or seeking cover.
How the scene changes the meaning
You watch rain end from a sheltered doorway.
The shift from waiting to being able to leave gives the scene an ending.
You are caught outside and find someone willing to share shelter.
Help and a change in your exposure are part of the plot, alongside the weather.
A question to take with you: Did the weather change, and could you choose shelter or continue your journey?
Sources and related reading
- Received Zhougong Jiemeng: Heaven, Earth, Sun, Moon and Stars
Rain clearing, rain met on the road, fear at thunder, lightning illuminating the dreamer, and a roaring wind. Fixed Wikisource revision 7907671; underlying print edition unidentified. The title does not establish authorship by the historical Duke of Zhou.