20. Contemplation to 5. Waiting

Changing lines

1. Line 1

   The first line, magnetic, shows the looking of a child -- not blamable in those of inferior rank, but a matter of regret in superior men. Line one is magnetic and in the lowest place, which is also improper for it. This suggests the symbol of a thoughtless child who cannot see far -- one who takes only shallow and superficial views.

2. Line 2

   The second line, magnetic, shows one peeping out from a door. It would be advantageous if it were merely the firm correctness of a female. Line two is magnetic in her proper place, showing a woman who lives retired and only able to peep through the crack of her door at her fifth-line correlate. But ignorance and retirement are proper in a woman.

3. Line 3

   The third line, magnetic, shows one looking at the course of her own life, to advance or recede accordingly. The magnetic third line at the top of the lower trigram of Receptivity belongs to one of utmost docility. She wishes to act only according to the exigency of the time and circumstances, and will advance or recede accordingly.

4. Line 6

   The sixth line, dynamic, shows its subject contemplating his character to see if it be indeed that of a superior man. He will not fall into error. There is a slight difference in the sixth line from the fifth which can hardly be expressed in a translation. By making a change in the punctuation, however, the different significance may be brought out. Line six is dynamic, and should be considered out of the work of the hexagram, but he is still possessed by its spirit, and is led to self- examination.

The present judgment

Contemplation shows us a worshipper who has purified himself, but must still present his sacrifice with that dignified sincerity which inspires reverence.

The later judgment

Waiting intimates that with sincerity and firmness there will be brilliant success and good fortune. It will be advantageous to cross the great stream.

Add a comment

Log in to comment on this combination.