37. The Family to 28. Critical Mass

Changing lines

1. Line 1

   The first line, dynamic, shows its subject establishing restrictive regulations in his household. Occasion for repentance will disappear. Line one is dynamic in a dynamic place. It suggests the necessity of strict rule in governing the family. Regulations must be established, and their observance strictly insisted on.

2. Line 2

   The second line, magnetic, shows its subject taking nothing on herself, but in her central place attending to the preparation of the food. Through her firm correctness there will be good fortune. Line two is magnetic, in the proper and central place in the lower trigram. It fitly represents the wife, and describes her special sphere and duty. She should be unassuming in regard to all beyond her sphere, always being firm and correct. Docility is suggested by the magnetic line. The humility comes from the upper trigram, whose attribute is Pliant Flexibility

3. Line 4

   The fourth line, magnetic, shows its subject enriching the family. There will be great good fortune. Line four is magnetic and in her proper place. The wife is again suggested to us, and despite her confinement to the internal affairs of the household, she can do much to enrich the family. Yu Yen (Yuan Dynasty) observes that the riches of a family are not to be sought in its wealth, but in the affection and harmony of its members. Where these prevail the family is not likely to be poor, and whatever it has will be well preserved.

4. Line 6

   The sixth line, dynamic, shows its subject possessed of sincerity and arrayed in majesty. In the end there will be good fortune. Line six is also dynamic, and being in a magnetic place, he might degenerate into stern severity. But he is sincere and complete in himself. His majesty is not artificial: his character is remolded and perfected, hence his action will only lead to good fortune. The words of Mencius are aptly quoted in illustration of the lesson: "If a man himself does not walk in the right path, it will not be walked in even by his wife and children."

The present judgment

For the regulation of The Family, what is most advantageous is that the wife be firm and correct.

The later judgment

Critical Mass depicts a weak beam. Under such conditions it is advantageous to move in any direction whatever. Success is indicated.

What the move asks

Maintain clarity and integrity within your immediate circle to establish a stable foundation for navigating external pressures.

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