Here we have the Change Hexagram. Whereas the first hexagram showed us the dynamics of the moment, this one will tell us how they will evolve.
My Change Hexagram is #19 (Lin — Approach)
For the full text attached to this hexagram click here.
The Chinese word lin has a range of meanings that is not exhausted by any
single word of another language. The ancient explanations in the Book of
Changes give as its first meaning, "becoming great." What becomes great are
the two strong lines growing into the hexagram from below; the light-giving
power expands with them. The meaning is then further extended to include
the concept of approach, especially the approach of what is lower. Finally the
meaning includes the attitude of condescension of a man in high position
toward the people, and in general the setting to work on affairs. This
hexagram is linked with the twelfth month (January-February), when after
the winter solstice, the light power begins to ascend again.
I find this interesting as hexagram 27 told us the I Ching triggers change in the way the spring brings about the flourishing of nature after months of being still. And here we are told that the 'light power begins to ascend again'. It is also said that this hexagram explains how a person in a strong position should conduct himself around those in a lowlier one.
APPROACH has supreme success.
Perseverance furthers.
When the eighth month comes,
There will be misfortune.
The hexagram as a whole points to a time of joyous, hopeful progress. Spring
is approaching. Joy and forbearance bring high and low nearer together.
Success is certain. But we must work with determination and perseverance
to make full use of the propitiousness of the time. And on thing more:
spring does not last forever. In the eighth month the aspects are reversed.
Then only two strong, light lines are left; these do not advance but are in
retreat (see next hexagram). We must take heed of this change in good time.
If we meet evil before it becomes reality-before it has even begun to stir-we
can master it.
The relationship we are engaged in with the I Ching will bring success if we stick with it. Right now, this is a good time for such an undertaking. It will not always be so. All things change and if we prepare ourselves for a time that is not so good, we can manage it.
The earth above the lake:
The image of APPROACH.
Thus the superior man is inexhaustible
In his will to teach,
And without limits
In his tolerance and protection of the people.
The earth borders upon the lake from above. This symbolizes the approach
and condescension of the man of higher position to those beneath him. The
two parts of the image indicate what his attitude toward these people will be.
Just as the lake is inexhaustible in depth, so the sage is inexhaustible in his
readiness to teach mankind, and just as the earth is boundlessly wide,
sustaining and caring for all creatures on it, so the sage sustains and cares for
all people and excludes no part of humanity.
I asked what the I Ching's greatest treasure is and here we are told its ability and willingness to teach is without limits. It excludes no one. This is something that will remain constant despite all the changing fortunes that are otherwise inevitable.
When reading this changing hexagram it is not necessary to consult the lines. However, much can still be learned from doing so.
If you're really keen, there is something else you can do . . .
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