In the Chinese term "Yì Xiǎng" (意想), the character "Yì" (意) is composed of "Sound" (音) on the top and "Heart" (心) on the bottom. Its original meaning refers to the sound emitted by the heart. The character "Xiǎng" (想) is composed of "Image" or "Form" (相) on the top and "Heart" (心) on the bottom. Its original meaning refers to the images that appear within the heart.

Therefore, the so-called "Yì Xiǎng" is a combination of the "voice of the heart" (Yì) and the "picture in the heart" (Xiǎng). This represents a complete loop of thought: first comes the inner drive (Yì), followed by the formation of a concrete visualization (Xiǎng).

On the surface, "Yì Xiǎng" usually refers to imagination, anticipation, or expectation. It is often used to describe the activities of ideas, plans, and thoughts within the mind.

This term also appears in a very precious book I have read. For instance, it mentions "unexpected levels" (levels beyond Yì Xiǎng), "using Yì Xiǎng to focus on the Dantian energy," or "using Yì Xiǎng to draw from the universe." These examples are recalled from my memory; for the specific context and exact wording, one must refer to the original text. Indeed, in life, there are truly things that are "unexpected" (beyond our Yì Xiǎng).

Reflecting on this through the lens of Truthfulness (Zhen): "Yì Xiǎng" must constantly be checked against reality. Otherwise, no matter how rich the ideas are, they are merely illusions in the mind. Our thoughts must return to truth and we must be honest with our own intent to achieve the proper effect. If our "Yì Xiǎng" contains unrealistic fantasies (delusions) or self-deception, we must purge these errant thoughts.

Reflecting on this through the lens of Compassion (Shan): "Compassion" is not just about benevolent actions, but also includes internal motives and thoughts. Whether our "Yì Xiǎng" is good or evil determines the direction of our subsequent actions. Thoughts themselves carry material energy. An "Yì Xiǎng" filled with compassion (such as blessings and tolerance) generates a positive field, while one filled with resentment manifests as negative matter.

Reflecting on this through the lens of Forbearance (Ren): Here, "Forbearance" embodies the power to restrain the heart. It is not about suppression, but about denying "Yì Xiǎng" the space to spiral out of control. An ordinary person's mind is often like "ten thousand horses galloping"—filled with chaotic and uncontrollable random thoughts. From the perspective of Forbearance, one needs the power of concentration (Dingli) to rein in these disordered thoughts.

I encountered the term "Yì Xiǎng" in that precious book. What I have shared here represents only the surface meaning and my personal inspiration. To understand the deeper inner meanings, one must read the original book comprehensively.