57. Gentle Penetration to 41. Sacrifice

Changing lines

1. Line 1

   The first line, magnetic, shows its subject now advancing, now retreating. It would be advantageous for her to have the firm correctness of a brave soldier. Line one is magnetic where it should be dynamic. Her movements are perplexed because she lacks vigor and decision.

2. Line 3

   The third line, dynamic, shows its subject penetrating only by violent and repeated efforts. There will be occasion for regret. Line three is in the right place for a dynamic line, but his position at the top of the trigram indicates his restlessness bordering on vehemence. The sixth line is not a proper correlate, and all the striving is ineffective. The exhausted will is the result of his repeated efforts which have worn him out. He can now only regret his failures.

3. Line 5

   The fifth line, dynamic, shows that with firm correctness there will be good fortune to its subject. All occasion for repentance will disappear, and all his movements will be advantageous. There may have been no good beginning, but there will be a good end. Three days before making any changes, let him give notice of them; and three days after, let him reconsider them. There will thus be good fortune. Ch'eng-tzu says that line five is the seat of honor for the lord of the hexagram, from whom issue all charges and commands. It is central and correct and exemplifies the qualities of the figure in the highest mode. These qualities are docility and conformance to what is right, and the advantage of firm correctness is insisted upon. With this, all will be right. Compare the concluding image with the Judgment of hexagram number eighteen, Repair.

The present judgment

Penetration indicates modest success. See the great man and move in the direction that implies.

The later judgment

Compensating Sacrifice means that sincerely maintained rectitude brings great success. Action is appropriate if one's sacrifice is sincere, even two baskets of grain, though there be nothing else, may be offered.

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