The Chinese character Gu represents a bowl with worms growing in its contents. It means that which is corrupted. This occurred because the gentle indifference of the lower primordial character combined with the rigid inertia of the upper primordial character, causing conditions to stagnate. Since guilt is present, these conditions contain the call for its elimination. Therefore, the meaning of the character is not simply “the corrupted,” but “the corrupted as a task,” “working on the corrupted.”

What has been corrupted through human guilt can be repaired through human labor. It is not unalterable fate, as during the period of stagnation, but a consequence of the abuse of human freedom that has brought about the state of corruption. Therefore, working toward improvement is promising because it is in harmony with the possibilities of the time. Only one must not shy away from work and danger – symbolized by crossing the great water – but must act energetically.

Success, however, requires proper consideration. This is expressed in the addition: “Three days before the starting point, three days after the starting point.” First, one must understand the reasons that led to the ruin before they can be eliminated: hence, respect during the time before the starting point. And then, one must ensure that the new path is safely established so that a relapse is avoided: hence, respect for the time after the starting point. The indifference and inertia that led to ruin must be replaced by determination and energy, so that the end is followed by a new beginning.

When the wind blows down on the mountain, it is reflected back and destroys the plants. This contains the call to improvement. The same is true of low moods and fashions: they bring ruin to human society. To eliminate this, the noble man must renew society. The methods for doing so are also taken from the two primal signs, only their effects unfold in an orderly sequence. He must eliminate stagnation by arousing public opinion (as the wind arouses) and then strengthen and calm the character of the people (as the mountain provides rest and nourishment for all growth in its environment).