32. Consistency to 20. Contemplation

Changing lines

1. Line 2

   The second line, dynamic, shows all occasion for repentance disappearing. Line two is dynamic, but in the place of a magnetic line. However, because of his central position he holds fast to the due mean.

2. Line 3

   The third line, dynamic, shows one who does not continuously maintain his virtue. There are those who will impute this to him as a disgrace. However firm he may be, there will be ground for regret. The third line is dynamic in a dynamic place, but has passed the center position of the lower trigram. He is too active, and coming under the attraction of his sixth line correlate, he is impelled to abandon his place and virtue. The K'ang-hsi editors' version of the commentary is: "Nowhere can he bear to remain."

3. Line 4

   The fourth line, dynamic, shows a field where there is no game. Line four is dynamic in a magnetic place, thus suggesting the symbolism.

4. Line 5

   The fifth line, magnetic, shows its subject continuously maintaining the virtue indicated by it. In a wife this will be fortunate; in a husband, evil. The magnetic fifth line responds to the dynamic second, and may be supposed to represent a wife conscious of her weakness, and docilely submissive, which is correct. A husband, however, and a man generally, has to assert himself, and lay down the rule of what is right. From line five it appears that what is right will vary in different cases. The lesson of the hexagram is perseverance in what is right in each particular case.

5. Line 6

   The sixth line, magnetic, shows its subject exciting herself to long continuance. There will be evil. The principle of perseverance has run its course and the energy of the upper trigram of Movement is exhausted. The line itself is magnetic, and her violent efforts can only lead to evil.

The present judgment

Consistency means successful progress without error through firm correctness. Movement in any direction is advantageous.

The later judgment

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

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