The Visionary I Ching

A Book of Changes for Intuitive Decision Making Paul OBrien

Paul OBrien. All Rights Reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced stored in a retrieval system or transmitted by any means !ithout !ritten permission of the author.

"ivination #oundation Press $anuary %&'( !!!.divination.com

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HOW TO USE THIS BOOK: If you are already familiar with the I Ching, just cast the
coins or sticks to construct your hexagram, then use the Hexagram Lookup Table below in the Table of Contents to find your hexagram and all its changing lines !or new I Ching users, go to the chapters in "art II, which gi#e instructions for casting a reading, some history of the I Ching, and an explanation of how the I Ching works $njoy%

TAB E O! CO"TE"TS Author#s $reface PART I. The %isionar& I Ching He'agra(s

1. Creative Power 2. The Receptive 3. Difficulty at the eginning !. "outhful #olly $. Patience %. Conflict &. 'rgani(e) Discipline *. +ol)ing Together ,. -.all Influences 1/. Trea)ing Carefully 11. +ar.ony 12. -tan)still 13. #ellowship 1!. Affluence 1$. +u.ility 1%. 0nthusias. 1&. #ollowing 1*. Repairing 1hat is -poile) 1,. The Approach of -pring 2/. 'verview 21. Cutting Through 22. 2race an) eauty 23. -plitting Apart 2!. Returning 2$. Innocence 2%. Contain.ent of Potential 2&. 3ourish.ent

2*. 04cessive Pressure 2,. Dangerous Depths 3/. Clinging li5e #ire 31. 6utual Attraction 32. 0n)urance 33. Retreat 3!. 2reat Vigor 3$. 0asy Progress 3%. Dar5ening of the 7ight 3&. 04ten)e) #a.ily 3*. Diverging Interests 3,. Te.porary '8stacles !/. Deliverance !1. Decrease !2. Increase !3. Deter.ination !!. 7iaison !$. 2athering Together !%. Pushing 9pwar) !&. 'ppression !*. The 1ell !,. Revolution $/. The Caul)ron $1. -hoc5 $2. :eeping -till $3. A -tea)y Pace

$!. Careful Affection $$. 2reat A8un)ance $%. The 1an)erer $&. 2entle Penetration $*. ;oy $,. Dispersing %/. 7i.its an) Connections %1. Centering in Truth %2. Attention to Detail %3. After Co.pletion %!. 3earing Co.pletion

$A)T II* ABOUT THE I CHI"+ Cha,ter -* What is the I Ching. Cha,ter /* Wh& the I Ching 0orks Cha,ter 1* Ho0 to Cast an I Ching )ea2ing ACK"OW ED+ME"TS A$$E"DICES

About the I Ching Artist, Joan Larimore Yarrow Stalk Method of Casting a Hexagram Historical and M thological !rigins of the I Ching About the Author

Author#s $reface
We live in a time of accelerating change, a time when things are happening so rapidly that it can feel like chaos. While change may seem more furious than ever, life has always been in a state of flux. In fact, change is really the only constant, the one thing we can always count on. The key to success and happiness in a time of accelerating change is learning how to better manage the changes we live through. The central skill involved in adjusting, adapting and taking advantage of change is better decision making. The ancient Taoist sages left us a powerful and profound change management system in the form of the I !hing, or "#ook of !hanges.$ %ne of the oldest books in the world, the I !hing is much more than a book. It is a psychologically sophisticated system designed to stimulate the intuition in order to see how things evolve, interpret what is happening from a broader point of view and make larger decisions going forward. The more I have used the I !hing for insights or advice during the past four decades, the stronger my feelings of reverence and gratitude for it have grown. Indeed, the I !hing has helped me make every major decision in my adult life since the &rst day I was introduced to the oracle at the 'niversity of !alifornia in #erkeley. In that carefree period of my life as a college student, most of my problem solving involved the fascinating and confusing terrain of love. (espite a predilection for philosophy, my teenage attraction to girls became stronger than academic and spiritual interests. )o, when a fetching #erkeley co ed offered to show me how to cast a "reading$ could answer *uestions using an ancient !hinese book that

she already had my attention. )keptical of her "oracle,$ but glad of the

opportunity to spend time with her, I played along with it. )he instructed me to write down some topic of personal concern. Without taking the process at all seriously, I scribbled something. Then she had me toss three !hinese coins six times +I found out later that copper pennies do nicely,, and taught me how to construct a "hexagram$ from the way the coins had landed. )he looked up the response in a large book, which was a classical translation of the I Ching by -ichard Wilhelm. The I !hing responded to my smart aleck *uery with

.exagram /0, titled "1outhful 2olly,$ which describes the student who lacks respect for the teacher. The I !hing had ignored my meaningless *uestion and had reflected on my careless attitude instead. 3lmost chastised, I asked my friend if I could cast the I !hing again 4 this time I was just wanting to test it. %nce again it ignored my meaningless *uery and replied that it was "*uestioning the sincerity of the seeker.$ It was testing me right back5 In hindsight, I can see that the I !hing was generously offering me an opportunity to take it seriously and learn what it is really about. 3nd, in the 06 years since I have accepted that invitation, I have done so. In the process, I have bene&tted enormously, which is why I am compiling our modern version of the I !hing to share this bene&t with you.

There have been pivotal times throughout my life when I7ve faced fateful, life changing decisions and have used the I !hing to overcome self doubt, renew my sense of direction, strengthen my sense of purpose or steer myself onto an inspiring path. %n rare occasions, I !hing readings have prompted me to make a momentously risky decision such as *uitting a well paid executive

position to publish a multimedia version of the I !hing itself which, at the time, seemed to my peers to be a totally cra8y idea. Whether I used a book version, or later my software versions that contained the &rst rendition of the I !hing text in this book, I have turned to it again and again for guidance. %ut of respect, I7ve been careful not to misuse or overuse it. 9y policy has been to only turn to the oracle only when I have a dilemma that logic can7t handle. :o worries about that provides many of those5 In the early years of my personal I !hing use, I used the Wilhelm #aynes version by ;rinceton ;ress the best selling translation of the I !hing and, partly because of !arl <ung7s forward to the life

book, widely considered the most authoritative. 3s my interest in studying the I !hing grew stronger, I ac*uired some twenty different versions and would use, read and would compare the text of several different versions whenever I consulted the I !hing. 3lthough I always included it, I had become aware of the Wilhelm version7s limitations. 9y forays into !hinese history supported the idea that the version Wilhelm translated, from the !hinese texts that he had access to, reflected some of the political biases of =>th century !hina, perhaps to shed some favorable light on the

rulers of the 9anchu (ynasty +=?00@=>=A 3(,. 3lso, being so classical, the Wilhelm text necessarily reflected the cultural limitations of the I !hing7s ancient pedigree, including a patriarchal and militaristic slant. 2urthermore, this &rst Bnglish translation suffered from a stiff Cermanic flavor, having been translated from !hinese into Wilhelm7s Cerman, then to Bnglish from that. )ome A?66 years ago !onfucius spent a good portion of his life studying and writing about the I !hing. .is commentaries reflect his social philosophy, which had an emphasis on doing one7s duty and knowing one7s place in a hierarchical society. %f course, I could use the classical translations and make allowances for anti*uated cultural aspects, which is what I did for years. 3t the same time, even though I respected the traditional I !hing greatly, I imagined how the language and imagery could better speak to me and other modern users. 2or instance, I simply could not relate to the sexism of "the superior man$ or "the army marches to the southwest.$ 3fter having used the I !hing for twenty years at the time, I felt the need for a modern version that would be more accessible to, and satisfying for, modern users like myself. 3t the time in =>DD, I was a marketing executive for a high tech software company in ;ortland, %regon. 3lthough I was fascinated by the future potential of interactive multimedia software, the technology emphasis of the company left me feeling empty. I was lacking a sense of personal mission. I felt I was at a crossroads, because I had no strong sense of direction. To make things worse, I had lost respect for my employer and saw little hope of the company7s abusive culture changing for the better. )o, as I had done for twenty years when facing a confusing dilemma, I found myself turning to the I !hing for counsel more often. (uring one particularly tough week, things got so stressful at work that I brought my large Wilhelm I !hing book into the of&ce, so I could consult it, if and when I felt the need. 3fter using it a few times over a couple of weeks, I noticed that amidst all the practical, psychological advice on how to adapt and go with the flow, my readings also seemed to be encouraging me to seek greener pastures. 3t the time, however, leaving my job would re*uire a major leap of faith, since

;ortland was a small market for software marketing positions. :evertheless, the I !hing7s advice was persistentE I was stuck, it said, and in need of a "breakthrough.$ 9eanwhile, the act of using the I !hing at work had given rise to a new idea in my mind. I was, after all, getting a lot of bene&t from it now, even at work. It helped me adapt to the changing circumstances and improved my timing by reminding me that there are times to assert oneself, but there also times to do nothing and just let dark clouds pass, and there are even times when it7s wise to run like hell5 )ince &nding private space to toss coins was dif&cult at work, and lugging around a large book cumbersome, it occurred to me how convenient it would be to have a software version that I could consult via my computer. This led to visions of multimedia, which had long been a dream of mine +even though !( -%9 technology was still F or D years into the future,. I began to visuali8e a program that would use a mouse to replicate traditional I !hing casting methods, perform all the "busy work$ of recording the lines cast and constructing a hexagram and looking up the relevant text, keep a journal of past readings in order to study changes and their evolution over time and, if my multimedia fantasies were to be reali8ed, incorporate soothing sounds and beautiful contemplative art. It was =>DD. I looked around but could not &nd I !hing or any divination software of any kind with or without any of the beautiful features I was visuali8ing.

%n a whim, I consulted the I !hing to in*uire if I should try to produce I !hing software myself, even though up to that point I had no experience with the design or development side of software. In response, I received the hexagram "Bnthusiasm,$ changing into "3bundance.$ !onvinced that the ancient oracle was encouraging me to go for it, I started to become fascinated by the idea. In spite of a multitude of practical reservations, I decided to give it a try and see what came out of it. To this end, I ended up spending my life savings on a free lance programmer and an artist to help me develop and produce a prototype. The result turned out to not only be the world7s &rst divination software title, but one of the &rst multimedia programs too. I called this, my &rst of many software creations, &ynchronicity It worked and I thought it was good.

This creative inspiration turned into a tiny startup business, when I decided to set up a company, 'isionary &oftware, to publish this intersection my two fascinations the I !hing and multimedia

software. I was inspired by a vision of using technology to support spirituality by providing a kind of "ritual space$ that could help a lot of people make better, more enlightened decisions. 3s my creative project developed, I reali8ed that a software version of the I !hing would need I !hing text, which I strongly felt needed to be more modern, individualistic, non sexist and nonmilitaristic. 3t the same time, I wanted to make sure that my new text was in alignment with the ;rinceton version in terms of essential meanings, even as it rendered the meaning in language that was non Cermanic, using metaphors that were more Taoist than !onfucian. )uch a text, it seemed to me, would be more suitable to the temperament of modern individuals who might be willing to access the I !hing via their personal computer or the Internet. !onsidering my profound respect for the I !hing, it was imperative that the program work in a completely authentic way. 2or instance, I would not abide the use of a "random number generator$ program to automate the casting of the lines. We had to &gure out how to use a computer to cast the coins in way that was both mathematically authentic, but also "energetically$ authentic,$ which meant that the process of casting was not to interfere with the personal energetic connection re*uired to generate a meaningful coincidence, or as !arl <ung called it, "synchronicity.$ The lines that came up had to be generated by the user, not the computer. The &nal product took nearly a year to produce +and almost bankrupted me,, but we eventually brought it to market in the form of a multimedia program on two floppy disks and called the product &ynchronicity. It was the foundation of the more elaborate (racle of Changes !( -%9 that came ten years later, and the popular websites +I3Ching*co(, then Tarot*co(, that followed upon that, and which continue to attract millions of visitors to this day. We hope that you &nd it useful in e book format5 The Gisionary I !hing e book provides a modern but faithful version of the ancient classic, with the addition of beautiful paintings by <oan Harimore that are &ne in grayscale, but show up more brilliantly on color reading devices. 2urthermore, we have put some fascinating historical and

psychological information related to how the I !hing works in ;art II of this book, for your possible interest. "ote for rea2ers 0ho have never cast the I ChingE <ump to !hapter I, which gives detailed instructions for casting a reading. %therwise, to go back to the hexagram chart, click here.

Artists note on painting, Creative Power -- sky above, sky below: This hexagram depi ts yang or male energy above and below! The sperm below symboli"es yang energy, and # ontin$ed with a dragon%ly and %inally a winged serpent %ig$re made o% trees, whi h, at the top, is penetrating the s$n, a so$r e o% reative energy!

-* Creative $o0er
2he air is ripe !ith imagination inspiration and energy. 2he dragon is an ancient symbol of an electrically charged dynamic arousing force that bodes !ell for creative initiative. )f your goals are in alignment !ith the greater good and you assert yourself in a positive !ay your actions !ill meet !ith success. 2his is a good time to e3ercise leadership because you can be strong no!. But be fore!arned, success turns to failure !hen strength turns to arrogance. 2his he3agram is one of the most auspicious in the Book of Changes. )n effect !hoever dra!s this he3agram is assured success by follo!ing the si3 stages of its lines. By being sensitive to conditions and doing things in the right order one develops greater influence. 2ime itself becomes the means to make real !hat is potent. Believe in your dreams and persevere and everything around you !ill flourish. 4all upon creative po!er and let it !ork through you. *tay focused on your goals. "o not let yourself be distracted or you may lose the po!er available to you no!. And remember that !hen taking action success re5uires good timing. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 2here is creative potential in your situation that you are not able to perceive. And you are not yet recogni6ed. 7old your po!er in reserve temporarily because the timing is not right for action. 2rying to make a lot of progress no! !ould be like trying to cook noodles in cold !ater. 8ait until the !ater boils. #ear not about your ability to !in. Be confident. 9our time is coming. 7ine 2> :vents are moving in the right direction. 9our influence is gro!ing and you are being noticed but the real game has not yet begun. 2ake a !ider perspective and the best strategy !ill become clear. 9ou are not yet in position to make great changes but aligning yourself !ith an ally or t!o !ould help lead to a breakthrough. 7ine 3> A sphere of influence is opening up. ;et yourself be active but do not e3pect an immediate re!ard. And dont let your energies become scattered. 7old to your vision and your integrity and you can make progress in a stable !ay. "o not use your creative po!ers <ust to attract attention to yourself. Remember freedom is not al!ays an invitation to dance= it may be a chance to step out on a ledge. Be careful. 7ine !> 9our creative po!er is gro!ing. 9ou have a clear choice in this situation ++ to lunge for!ard or to dra! back. )ts natural to feel some an3iety in a situation like this. But you have the freedom to act as the situation re5uires ++ to engage or to !ithdra!. "o not be influenced by !hat happened in the past. Be sure to consider the long+term conse5uences of any action you might take. *uch attention !ill leave you !ithout blame. 7ine $> 9our po!er is gro!ing. Be like the leader !ho is considerate to those under his or her influence. )n return the respect of those !ho !ork !ith you or from a partner is deepening. 9our position may be a bit lonely but influential people !ill soon recogni6e your talent. *eek out allies !hom you respect. 8hen leaders and lovers unite as peers their po!er is multiplied. 2hose !ho belong together come together.

7ine % <at the top=> Be a!are that your ambition may be e3ceeding your true po!er. )f so there may be cause for remorse. Avoid arrogance= isolating oneself !ill only lead to sorro!. No! is not a time to engage in conflicts or critici6e others. Rela3 and recharge your creative potential.

Artists note on painting, The &e eptive -- earth above, earth below: 'or the re eptive (earth or %emale energy) below, a %ertile earth with plo$ghed %$rrows or indi ations o% vaginal-like areas represents The &e eptive prin iple! 'or the re eptive above, # depi ted a %$ll moon representing %eminine energy above this parti $lar lands ape!

/* The )ece,tive
>reat receptivity attracts e3ceptional results. A natural responsiveness brings about success through support and perseverance rather than through bold action. 2hus the !ise person demonstrates strength like a po!erful but gentle mare. 2his he3agram consisting of all yin lines represents a po!er of the feminine principle no longer honored in our modern !orld but such receptivity is most auspicious. 2he receptive force is sensual as !ell as po!erful and it can be missed by too much talk and planning. 8hen spring comes does the grass ?plan@ to gro!A 2his is a time to concentrate on realities rather than potentials ++ !ith ho! to respond to a situation rather than ho! to direct it. 2he mature feminine lets herself be guided by a higher po!er and is skilled at graceful acceptance. )n a strong spiritual !ay her 5uiet contribution is most effective and brings success. "o not be too assertive at this time for if you try to direct things you are liable to become confused or alienated. ;earning to receive should be your main concern. 2ake your time. "ra! strength from carefulness and you !ill be doubly fortunate. #ocus more on feeling than on action. Be broad and deep in your attitudes so that you can accept everything that comes your !ay !ith grace and e5uanimity. Be receptive and spacious like the ocean= let the river of changing developments flo! to you. Allo! your partner to take the lead for no!. *trive for a pure natural responsiveness that is based on inner strength rather than outer sho!. 9ou !ill be able to go much further do!n your chosen path in this !ay than continuing under your o!n steam !ould allo!. 2he po!er of the Receptive comes from aligning itself !ith the 4reative not by opposition to it. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> *omething in your situation or relationship is foreboding like the first frost of autumn that !arns of the deadly cold of !inter. 7eed any small !arning signs that you see at this time. Prepare yourself. >ather fire!ood no! and you !ill be prepared to fend off the fiercest cold. 8atch for signs of approaching decay. 7ine 2> ;et movement and stillness meet. 8hen action springs naturally from inner calm and proceeds to harmoni6e !ith e3ternal creative forces all is !ell. >ood results are achieved !ithout artifice comple3 intentions or great effort. ;et nature serve as a reminder of ho! !ithout artificiality everything good comes to pass.

7ine 3> ;eave the pursuit of fame and praise to others. #ocus on accepting yourself. #reedom from vanity can be a po!erful force. "o not display your virtue for all to see but nurture it !ithin yourself. Attempt to be of service and your life !ill improve by itself. Allo! fruit to ripen slo!ly. Buiet perseverance is called for no!. 7ine !> )f things are not going !ell be reserved. Act !ith caution. )ts possible that an antagonistic force has been aroused against you causing everything you do to be misunderstood. Avoid challenging this force= that !ould only bring about hateful retaliation. On the other hand avoid the appearance of capitulation !hich could allo! the force to gather strength against you. Caintain your reserve and caution and lose yourself either in solitude or in the tumult of the cro!d. "ont let yourself be a target. 7ine $> 8hen called to play an important role in a pro<ect or relationship success comes from reliability and discretion. Be polite and kind and you !ill secure greater influence. "iscretion is essential at this time. )f you are genuine !ithout making a sho! of it good fortune follo!s. 7ine % <at the top=> Be!are of troublesome relationships or confusion over personal boundaries. "o not try to gain a position to !hich you may not be entitled. 8hen boundaries are not clearly defined both dogs and nations 5uarrel. )f you attempt to change your role at this time a bloody battle may ensue. *lo! do!n. "o not act until roles and responsibilities have been made clear.

Artists note on painting, *i%%i $lty at the +eginning -- water above, th$nder below: 'or this hexagram, my aim was to ill$strate a rainstorm ,$st getting started! The drops at the top are ,$st beginning to %all, and the th$nder below indi ates that a storm will %ollow!

1* Dif4cu5t& at the Beginning

2he birth of anything ++ including a ne! relationship or venture ++ is an entry into the realm of the unkno!n. At the same time ne! things seem to be rushing upon you and confusion can easily take over. But chaos is a po!erful force if you harness it properly. $ust dont rush things. "o not let events over!helm you. *tay calm and persevere but do take the first step. And get !hatever help you can. 4hallenges lie ahead. >ain strength= find courage. ;ike a ne!born fa!n the opportunity for rapid development is real but only by being determined can the fa!n rise to its feet and survive to gro! to full stature. Deep going despite difficulties and you !ill find the success you desire. 9our primary challenge is maintaining personal clarity. Avoid lunging at solutions= !ait until a good course of action becomes clear. "o not start a ne! pro<ect or relationship before thinking it through. A careless step in the beginning can easily cause events to get out of control later. :nlist the advice of e3perienced people. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 9our !ay is blocked for no!. Remain determined but act sensibly. "o not hesitate but dont force things either. 9ou have little po!er over the situation for the time being but do not give up. 8ith a strong spirit and some humility you can attract the people and kno!ledge you need. *eek the advice of someone more e3perienced than you are. 7ine 2> 8hen facing obstacles or difficulties sometimes there is a sudden turn of events. #or instance people !ho had seemed useless or even negative may turn out to be surprising benefactors. Others !hom you immediately trusted could turn out to be rogues. :ven in the case of !hat appears to be a ne! benefactor or ally be careful not to rush into a mismatch ++ be it marriage or some other kind of partnership. )t is critical to !ait for the right moment even if this means !orking hard for a long time before you find the partner you !ant. Although you look for!ard enthusiastically to relief from this situation it may be the !rong solution that appeals to you no! one that is full of restrictive obligations. #or the time being you should remain uncommitted. )n moving beyond obstacles keep a high priority on maintaining your freedom. 7ine 3> 4ontinuing !hat you have been doing !ould bring regret. 2ake a look at your desires ++ perhaps they are inappropriate. 9ou are like a mushroom gatherer in a strange forest !ho failed to bring along a guide. 9ou are losing your !ay. 2he !ise person foresees difficulties kno!s !hen it !ould be foolish to continue alone and gives up the chase before becoming hopelessly lost. 8hen standing on the edge of a cliff it is better to give up the dream of flying than to give in to it and crash on the rocks. 7ine !> An unusual opportunity is about to arise. )t could involve some embarrassment or other form of self+denial in the beginning but humility is essential and the opportunity must be sei6ed. 2o accept help in a difficult situation is no disgrace. 2ry to assess everything properly and give partners time to learn that you are trust!orthy.

7ine $> 9ou !ill find it difficult to grant the favors another may e3pect of you. )n this situation careful behavior leads to success in minor affairs. Any attempt to deal !ith ma<or issues at this time !ill not succeed. $ust put your nose to the grindstone. 2his is a time to !ork diligently and conscientiously. 7ine % <at the top=> *ome people constantly get stuck in the difficulties that arise at the beginning of pro<ects or relationships. 2hey thro! up their hands and become cynical about making any effort at all. 2his is the greatest danger of difficulty at the beginning of things ++ that the gro!ing pains !ill be mistaken for a permanent condition and lead to resignation. Once you give up the struggle you are like a cart that has lost its horse.

Artists note on painting, -o$th%$l 'olly -- mo$ntain above, water below: .hen depi ting -o$th%$l 'olly, # hose pink and bl$e pastel olors to indi ate yo$th and %reshness, and also to $se re%le tions and shadows and indeterminate areas as hints o% yo$ths la k o% experien e and tenden y to ling to ill$sions! # wanted the painting to show the sed$ tiveness o% ill$sion and how that an mask pit%alls!

6* 7outhfu5 !o55&
Be on guard for careless or rebellious attitudes that are characteristic of youthful ine3perience. $ust as a youth re5uires instruction this is a good time to focus on learning your lessons from a patient teacher or life e3perience. )s there a circumstance in your life that you have failed to comprehend completely perhaps because you have failed to appreciate its inherent comple3itiesA Be respectful of anything or anyone !ho has something to teach you right no!. )f your in5uiry !as about a relationship you may !ant to ask yourself !hich of you is the student !hich of you is the sageA )f you are a parent ask yourself, 8ho is being the teacher ++ you or your childA )n order to be ready for challenging times let education be an ongoing part of your life. 4ontinually develop the strong mind and !ill necessary to carry you through confusing times. 2he !ise reali6e that e3perience especially difficult e3perience is a po!erful teacher. But !e cannot be forced to learn even from e3perience. Be a humble student one !ho delights in learning one !ho nourishes his or her e3panding a!areness. :3amine your attitude for factors that limit your openness. Observe ho! you deal !ith partners mistakes. 9ou must let people live their o!n lives and learn their o!n lessons. Offer others your !isdom or advice but only if they are receptive. Other!ise give up trying to convince them that you are right ++ that is only e3hausting and counter+productive. )f people are not receptive let them proceed ++ even into difficulty or dangerous circumstances. )t is the only !ay they can learn and !ithout learning no one can achieve success. 2his does not mean that you should not care ++ <ust that taking care of someone too much can be harmful. ;ive and let learn. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> :ducation begins !ith discipline. All progress re5uires some degree of order. )t is the nature of youth to stumble into error through carelessness and playfulness= similar problems can plague adults as !ell. But !hile discipline is essential to achieve success boring routines or e3treme regulations that choke off creativity should be avoided.

7ine 2> 2reating foolishness kindly brings good fortune. Be patient !ith the ignorant. #or instance if you have children learn to accept their shortcomings. >ive them a good education be there !hen they need you and your family life !ill prosper. Also treat your associates kindly especially if they have not achieved !hat you have. 2his kind of inner strength combined !ith outer reserve is !hat develops true leadership. 7ine 3> "evotion to the rich po!erful or beautiful is dangerousE A !eak person can easily lose his or her individuality in trying to imitate !oo the affection or !in the respect of others. ;ike the flippant young girl !ho thro!s herself at the handsome millionaire it is undignified to offer oneself une5uivocally to anyone. Better to let the other ++ your superior your desired lover your investor !homever ++ come at least part of the !ay do!n the road to meet you. 7ine !> 4linging to fantasies leads to humiliation. )n a state of hopeful e3citement it is easy to entangle oneself in fantastic dreams. #rom these entanglements there are only t!o escapes, a!akening to reality or suffering humiliation. 2he choice is yours. 7ine $> A fresh innocence brings good fortune. A lack of preconceptions combined !ith a respect for lifes teachers !ill bring success to many endeavors. 8hen you maintain a childlike openness of mind you become a magnet for fresh insights and gain special glimpses into the real nature of things. 7ine % <at the top=> 9ou may !ant to correct another for a perceived !rongdoing but take care that the punishment fit the ?crime.@ 8hile its true that #ate evens the score !ith those !ho spurn natural la!s persons in authority offend the same natural la!s if they let a crime go unpunished. Be firm but remember that the goal of all truly effective punishment is e5uilibrium not revenge.

Artists note on painting, Patien e -- water above, sky below: 'or this hexagram the water above is ontained in the lo$ds! The water is abo$t to be released thro$gh the sky below! The lands ape with no movement shows how the everything waits %or the release to happen!

8* $atience
A fisherman can cast the line but can only !ait for the fish to bite. 9our catch !ill come in its o!n time= you cannot make it come ++ neither by !orking nor by planning nor by !ishing. 9ou may need to provide nourishment for you and your loved ones but only through patience can you become the bridge bet!een the fickle fish and the eventual feast. *trength in a time of trial !aits 5uietly resolutely. 8eakness gro!s agitated and abandons the effort before the fish bite. Periods of !aiting are most fruitful !hen used for 5uiet contemplation. Proceed cautiously but resolutely !ith !hatever you are doing. 2he situation calls for consistency and patience. 8aiting is an essential skill= patience is a po!erful force. 2ime is an ally of those !ith inner strength ++ the kind of strength that allo!s you to be uncompromisingly honest !ith yourself !hile sticking to the path you have charted. )f you persevere !ith a positive attitude time !eakens even the hardest obstacles. 2o rush anything or impatiently force results stimulates resistance and causes setbacks. At best you achieve surface changes that may <ust as 5uickly be reversed. *teadfast !aiting ++ holding to your integrity ++ leads to slo! but permanent improvements. )n the end you accomplish something great. Be content to practice patience. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 2roubling events are looming causing apprehension. "o not reactE Avoid premature action. $ust keep your life in order. "o not try to alter the path that has been set for you at this time. 9ou are heading in the right direction= do not become impatient or greedy. :ven though a challenge may be impending the skillful response is to carefully make preparations gaining strength for future battles. ;et go of an3ious thinking. *imply remain open alert and prepared. 7ine 2> *trife can easily develop. 9ou may have to tolerate gossip but in the end you !ill come out very !ell if you remain calm and magnanimous no!. 2hings !ill resolve themselves. 2hink of small grains of sand !hich accumulate over time to form embankments or dykes across !et areas. *and is more fragmentary than stone but harder than soil and can be used to alter the te3ture of both. ;ike sand you must be strong and accommodating even though others may abuse or blame you. Avoid being sucked into conflict= remain neutral. 7ine 3> 9ou feel stuck as in mud and your enemies feel encouraged. 9ou are in an e3posed position. Be cautious and considerate in relationships and be on guard. Be alert to shifting alliances. *uch a!areness !ill prevent harm. 7ine !> 9ou may be isolated and in a vulnerable position. Although escape is essential in such instances the only !ay out is to retain your composure and patience. 2here is no chance of great success no!= survival is the more immediate concern. Ne! opportunities !ill come from the sacrifices you are !illing to make no!. )f necessary keep out of sight in order to avoid direct confrontation. *ometimes the only honorable course is to accept fate and avoid the humiliation of railing against the inevitable.

7ine $> 8hen the storm hits it behooves one to en<oy a single glass of !ine. )n the midst of difficult situations there often comes a temporary pause= use this interval to fortify your position not by continuing to d!ell on the s!irl of events around you but by taking a recreation break. 7ave fun but !ith an eye to recharging your batteries rather than further draining them. )f you are in a leadership position it is essential to allo! the people on your team time to en<oy life and increase the pleasure of their !ork. All !ork and no play defeats the purpose of the !ork and !eakens the commitments of others to!ard the goal. )n personal matters remember that everything cannot be done at once. )f you do not take time for recreation and rela3ation today !ill tomorro! really be any betterA 7ine % <at the top=> )t seems as if you are falling into an abyss. 2his is a time of great difficulty. 8hen all your plans are overturned its best to yield gracefully. $ust remain cautious and alert= help !ill be arriving from some unkno!n corner. Deep an open mind and you !ill find your !ay out of current difficulties. 9ou can learn the lessons in this situation. )f a remedy does not soon present itself remember every trial you survive makes you stronger. >ood fortune a!aits.

Artists note on painting, Con%li t -- sky above, water below: #n this ill$stration the water below be ame a th$nderstorm beginning to emerge in the sky! The lo$ds seem to be at odds with ea h other, almost like boxers gloves, and the res$ltant rain (water below) t$rns to blood, indi ating that in,$ry o%ten %ollows Con%li t!

9* Con:ict
4onflict arises !hen a person !ho is convinced that he or she is entitled to something meets !ith opposition. )n such cases the !iser choice is not to push things to the bitter end because knocking heads only perpetuates bad !ill. 4reative solutions that meet others half!ay are more valuable and longer lasting than victories achieved through force. 4onflicts in !hich one party is not sincere inevitably lead to subterfuge and distortions. )n such situations those of strong character keep a clear head protect their o!n integrity and look out for their o!n interests even !hile seeking compromise. *ometimes this means finding a fair+ minded mediator !ho can settle matters. )n these times of conflict and turmoil ne! ventures and ne! initiatives are to be avoided. 2his is a good time to e3amine the sincerity of your o!n beliefs and those around you. *eek advice or arbitration from an impartial and mature person. 4onsider everything carefully before making any ma<or decisions. )t may be time to compromise. 2ry to clarify the roles and responsibilities of those you !ork and live !ith so as to avoid conflict in the future. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> "isputes and a dangerously charged atmosphere are likely but the storm !ill blo! over if you remain cautious. "o not force things= avoid fighting. 2here still may be a simple solution at hand since it is possible that a minor misunderstanding is at the root of the present conflict. )f you face an adversary !ho is much stronger than you are drop the dispute 5uickly. )f you are engaging an e5ual no! is the time to seek allies. 7ine 2> 8hen challenging a superior force retreat is merely a tactic not a disgrace. )n the face of insurmountable obstacles misplaced valor ++ perhaps fueled by a sense of personal pride ++ is not only stupid its dangerous to those around you, your allies your friends and your community. )f an adversary !ith a loaded rifle has you in his sights it furthers you to duck. 7ine 3> People !ith e3pansive personalities often generate conflict by attempting to ac5uire more ++ more credit for accomplishments or more material possessions ++ than is their due. ;earn to live !ithin your means to possess most dearly only those things !hich cannot be taken a!ay. 9ou can avoid much conflict by !orking solely to produce good results and to receive fair compensation for your efforts. ;et the prestige go to others. 7ine !> 8inning isnt everything. )n situations in life !here you face a !eaker opponent !inning is not al!ays even the strategic thing particularly if you are not sure of the rightness of your position. Remember that all conflict no matter ho! much the odds favor you carries a price. ;earn to demonstrate good!ill !hen you hold the upper hand and you !ill find that in the long run your position !ill be strengthened. 7ine $> )n disputes !here you kno! you are in the right look for a <ust arbiter !ho can turn the tide in your favor. 2his person must be strong and above reproach so that he or she has both moral authority and personal clout. )n such situations it behooves you to let go and let the arbiter take over. )f you have satisfied your o!n conscience that your

cause is <ust chances are that you !ill convince others of good conscience as !ell. And remember not every field is a battleground= many conflicts simply resolve themselves. 7ine % <at the top=> 8hen success over others is achieved through sheer force of authority or superior position the victory !ill not last. 2hose !ho can !in only by the s!ord are condemned to carry shields !ith them every!here. Be!are of hollo! victories.

Artists note on painting, /rgani"ed *is ipline -- earth above, water below:

Camo$%lage olors o% khaki and tan are $sed %or this hexagram to symboli"e the *is ipline o% an army! The water below is well ontained and level, also s$ggesting dis ipline and ontrol! The trees seem to advan e $p the hill like soldiers!

;* Organi<e2 Disci,5ine
"iscipline in this he3agram is symboli6ed by the elements of !ater under the earth ++ a resource available to use but hidden= something po!erful that re5uires effort to access= and a potential of great means that can be harnessed in times of need. Once accessed and applied great things can be accomplished by means of organi6ed discipline. 2he most successful general is not the one !ho triumphs on the battlefield but the one able through strength of discipline and inner po!er to triumph !ithout spilling blood. ;ike!ise in any large organi6ation the key virtues are discipline and conscientiousness. 2he most effective platoon marches !ith a single purpose ++ a dedication to a lofty common goal that is held dear by all. Other!ise even !ith an e3cess of e3ternal discipline unpopular !ars are seldom !innable. ;et po!er be held in check by the acceptance of a common discipline and submission to a higher authority for the common good. 8hen life is in balance evil impulses are checked by human decency= parents die before their children= leaders lead and follo!ers follo!. )f you hold or aspire to a position of leadership remember that the true leader captures the hearts of the people and articulates a clear simple vision that binds them together. )n the realm of government the relationship bet!een the army and state is critical. Only !hen the state is economically prosperous can the army be strong. Only !hen the army is disciplined can the state be protected from disruptive outside forces. #or this balance to be preserved government must be steady and mild to!ard its o!n people. 8hen balancing strong complementary forces modesty and generosity at the center can be a magnetic force that keeps the relationships intact. *olidarity among all elements is essential for success at this time. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> At the beginning of any campaign order is essential. >et your ducks in a ro! before you start 5uacking orders. Nothing good can be achieved !ithout organi6ing your assets. 7ine 2> >ood fortune follo!s !hen the general !orks in the midst of his troops. 2hen !hen honors are besto!ed the entire army is proud to see the general re!arded.

7ine 3> )mpending misfortune a!aits. 8henever you overestimate your capabilities or underestimate your !eaknesses misfortune inevitably follo!s. Be certain that you and those around you are playing the role for !hich each is best suited and the difficulty !ill be lifted. 7ine !> A strategic retreat is called for. 2his is not a final defeat but an opportunity to gain strength by removing yourself from the battleground. Retreat is a disciplined disengagement from all response into neutrality and acceptance of the situation as it is. 7ine $> )t is time to resist some invasive force. *trengthen your position by making sure that relationships and roles are in alignment as they should be. "o not allo! your defense of the boundaries to deteriorate into a free+for+all !hich !ould only make things !orse. 8ise leadership is !hat is called for. )n a time of combat those !ho are e3perienced should lead= other!ise be supportive. 7ine % <at the top=> )n times of victory financial generosity is the cleanest re!ard to those !ho have helped you achieve success. Avoid making complicated promises in e3change for good !ork on your behalf and never give re!ards based on sentiment alone. Re!ards have as much to do !ith the future as !ith the past.

Artists note on painting, 0olding Together -- water above, earth below: The goal %or this image was to depi t harmony, so the painting shows the water embra ing the earth as it %alls %rom above! The water and earth are 0olding Together to promote %ertility, hen e the blooming $ndergrowth in the s ene!

=* Ho52ing Together
7olding together brings success. But high+level team!ork is achieved !hen the right players on the right team share a clear goal at the right time. A team forms its relationships in a delicate manner= chemistry is bre!ed in the vat of shared e3periences. ;atecomers cannot share the same depth of union as earlier members. 8hole+hearted commitment is re5uired for team success. All successful teams have a shared vision and a leader. )f a teams leadership is up to the challenge the team !ill prosper. )n political and business affairs <ust as in basketball it is hard to !in !ithout a strong center. Accept the structure of the team if you !ish to receive its benefits= other!ise go off on your o!n. )n holding together !ith others cling to your o!n principles but be !illing to subordinate your personal desires for the good of the group. Perhaps you are contemplating becoming a leader of a group= remember that to become the center of influence binding people together is a considerable challenge and a serious responsibility. Assess yourself carefully first to see if you 5ualify for this role. )f not it !ould be better that the group not be formed than for you to lead it !ithout proper preparation. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> *incerity is the foundation of all successful relationships. )n a thirsty !orld it is not the form of the !ater <ar that matters ++ its the contents. 7ine 2> 8hen circumstances demand that you rise to the call to action and be a role+player for the good of the team and the respect of its leaderFsG the best !ay is to respond out of your innate sense that your !ork contributes to a greater good. 2his approach has dignity and leads to good fortune. Another !ay is to visibly support those in a more po!erful position in order to ingratiate oneself and maneuver into a stronger competitive position. )n this approach one thro!s oneself a!ay and loses dignity. 7ine 3> People often find themselves living inside various circles of friends and professional relations. )t is critical that you strike the right balance !ith each. Be open to your intimates sociable !ith your lesser friends cautious !ith all others. "eveloping strong relationships !ith !eak or dishonest characters !ill greatly diminish your position. 7ine !> No! is a time for loyalty. *ho! your support of those in leadership positions= they deserve your support so long as you can provide it !ithout compromising your integrity. 7ine $> A very beneficial union is in the offing. 2here !ill be good fortune as long as you are careful not to force things. ;et the people come and go and !hen the right one arrives you !ill kno!. )t may be time to align yourself !ith a person at the center of things.

7ine % <at the top=> "ifficulties arise !hen matters are not begun properly. :ven !ith a good beginning problems are inevitable= ho!ever !ithout a sound beginning the problems that come !ith the passage of time !ill be insurmountable. Once its head has been severed no amount of ?correction@ !ill cause a frog to <ump.

Artists note on painting, 1mall #n%l$en es -- wind above, sky below: The wind above is ,$st beginning to stir $p the sky below! The winds e%%e t is small now, b$t it has in%l$en ed all sorts o% lo$ds to %orm already! There is even some moist$re shown by the rainbow- olored re%le tions that %li ker thro$gho$t!

>* S(a55 In:uences

A gentle !ind gathers the clouds but still no rain. *ofter influences predominate as the po!er of the ?small@ accumulates. 2his is a time for smooth and friendly persuasion. )n the ebb and flo! of events there are al!ays ?lo! tides@ ++ times !hen s!eeping action is impossible or inappropriate but small matters can be attended to profitably leading to bigger and better things later on. 8hen the tide is rolling in by all means ride the !ave but !hen it is receding like it is no! focus on little things. 8hen the time is such that you cannot do much to affect large matters persuasion and subtle influence can prepare the !ay for strength in the future. Hse your intuition to chart your long+term course but avoid bold actions for the moment ++ they are unlikely to !ork. 2his is an e3cellent time to refine e3isting abilities or develop ne! talents. >entleness is the key!ord here. Regarding your en5uiry gentleness combined !ith determination is likely to generate more progress than brute force ever could. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 8hen a strong person encounters an obstacle in his or her path the first inclination is to press for!ard to remove it or overcome it by force. )n present circumstances ho!ever do not let yourself be dra!n into direct action or conflict. )nstead stand back and take some time to assess the situation and consider all your options. >ive yourself the space to advance or retreat or do nothing at all for the time being. 7ine 2> 8hen skating on thin ice it behooves one to allo! others to take the lead. 2here is no disgrace in learning from others particularly !hen doing so avoids putting oneself in harms !ay. #ortune a!aits those !ho remain determined I and patient. 7ine 3> 8hen a small problem arises keep it simple and focus on the immediate solution. $ust as forcibly continuing to drive !ith a flat tire can ruin an entire <ourney one can prevent small problems from creating a huge problem by attending to them !ithout overreacting or trying to force things. *tep back give the situation some space and focus on patching the tire. 2his is more effective in getting you further up the road than be!ailing your fate or !asting energy assigning blame. One is often disappointed !hen an easy time !as e3pected. But e3erting force no! !ould only deepen your troubles. 7ine !> )n a !orld of constant change personal sincerity creates an inner core of consistency. By seeking truth from verified evidence rather than self+interest one becomes a valued advisor to others. *ticking to the facts is like adding !eight to the scales a spoonful at a time= eventually great !eight is ultimately achieved. )n times of conflict clear and ob<ective insights count heavily helping to avert violence and dispel fear. 7ine $> )n the best partnerships each partner complements the other. ;oyalty and trust are the fuel that allo!s a partnership to shine. #or the !eaker partner loyalty means devotion and service= for the stronger trust!orthiness is

essential. A balanced partnership leads to great prosperity ++ and !ealth !on in partnership is appreciated and admired all the more because it is shared. 7ine % <at the top=> >entle !inds have gathered the clouds and the rain finally arrives. 2he softer forces have gained strength for a moment of victory. But <ust as the full moon is follo!ed by inevitable !aning so a triumph of !eak forces is doomed to be short lived. 2he mature person learns to en<oy the fullness of the moon on its o!n terms. A brilliant moon is a full cup= toast the moment and be content in the kno!ledge that patience !ill re!ard you !ith more influence !hen the time is right.

Artists note on painting, Treading Care%$lly -- sky above, lake below: 1in e this hexagram is abo$t ond$ t, # wanted to depi t a lands ape that is tri ky to navigate! There are obsta les to treading here, like tree roots and odd re%le tions2 are is indi ated! Altho$gh the sky above seems most inviting, it also seems a bit ill$sory as well!

-?* Trea2ing Carefu55&

People of ability find their !ay and make progress even in difficult circumstances. 4onsider your steps carefully !hen po!erful forces surround you. 8eak and strong forces For peopleG can coe3ist !hen the !eaker element does not impose upon the stronger !hen the !eaker maintains good humor and avoids taking bold action. 8hen treading among sleeping tigers ++ or slippery stones ++ step gingerly and dont stumble. At this time the !eak are in a position of influence over the strong and for this reason one must be particularly careful of ones conduct. )n the company of brash people rushing !ildly ahead brings misfortune. No! is not a good time for taking the initiative= rather try getting by !ith a little grace and good humor. )n the court of a po!erful king the <ester often has more po!er than the prince. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 8hen starting from a humble position inner strength in the form of personal modesty is the key to advancement. 4onscientious !ork is al!ays re!arded !hen motives are simple and intentions genuine ++ especially !hen credit goes to the supervisor. *implicity in action !ill leave you free of obligation. 2o strive aggressively no! !ould place you in a position of greater difficulty. 7ine 2> Beyond the silence of failure lies the stillness of !isdom. 8ithdra!ing from the bustle of events and eliminating unnecessary desires brings clarity of purpose. ;ife becomes a smoother road !hen you understand that happiness comes less from having !hat you !ant than from !anting !hat you have. 7ine 3> 8hen those !ith poor vision tread among tigers they meet disaster. "o not try to go beyond your capacity at this time. 9ou !ill create problems if you think your po!er is greater than it actually is. )f you believe you can overcome all obstacles by aggressive effort alone misfortune is likely. 2o plunge recklessly ahead is to risk great failure. :ven if you think you are in the right do not overestimate your strength. Deep ambition in check. 7ine !> 8hen you are certain of ultimate success it doesnt matter if you stomp on the tigers tail. 2he most important thing is to take action !hen outer circumstances are favorable. But great caution and consideration should have been taken beforehand so that the outcome is clear before you lo!er the boom. 7ine $> 8alking among tigers is dangerous. Resolute conduct in the face of danger and a clear+eyed assessment of the situation are the only means of successful resolution. 7ine % <at the top=> 9our !ork has reached a stage of completion and its time to count your !innings. Only by assessing the results of your past efforts can you kno! !hat to e3pect in the future. 2he farmer !ho harvests healthy crops in the fall can safely predict a prosperous !inter.

Artists note on painting, 0armony -- earth above, sky below: 3arth is being s$pported by the heavens, so # made this ill$stration look as idylli as possible, $sing so%t pea e%$l olors! 1pring blossoms represent the earth above2 the %loating lo$d shapes at the bottom represent the sky below!

--* Har(on&
:arth stands above heaven and heaven seems to be on earth. 2he gravity of matter merges !ith the up!ard radiation of the light to merge in a deep harmony. 2his <u3taposition denotes a time of peace and blessings for all living things. )n the affairs of men tran5uility comes !hen the good strong and po!erful sho! favor to the lo!ly and those of more modest means are !ell disposed to!ard those !ho are currently blessed. 2here is an end to all feuds. )n such a state energy is high the !ay clear and the prospects for great success outstanding. A deep chaos abides in nature but man by carefully responding to the rhythms and cycles of the !orld around him can find peace in the natural !orld. By planting the right crop in the right place in the right season the farmer brings harmony to the natural !orld of plants and prosperity to his family. *imilarly any business must ad<ust to the natural cycles of the season= only through fle3ibility and ad<ustment can order and gro!th be maintained. Peace produces a time of flo!ering and prosperity= the !ise person channels this positive energy to all 5uarters to each in proper proportion <ust as a farmer !aters his field. But be vigilant, other!ise peaceful conditions can foster the gro!th of !eeds as !ell as flo!ers. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> )n times of peace and prosperity an individual of high purpose is able to dra! like+minded people to a good cause. As such people become available to you enlist their support. No! is the time for people of talent to set out to accomplish something. 7ine 2> 2he great danger in any time of peace is a !eakening of resolve at the center of things. 2he true leader uses such periods to tend to all necessary tasks pleasant and unpleasant safe and unsafe so that nothing is neglected. 2he master of events like any great artist finds a use for everything and gives everyone a role to play. Be !atchful for the rise of factions or cli5ues= they are often the first sign of approaching decay. 7ine 3> 4hange is the great constant of the universe. 8hat goes up must come do!n. $ust as the ripest s!eetest fruit hangs by a mere thread so periods of prosperity often fall of their o!n !eight. "eath and decay are al!ays !ith us= they can be held at bay temporarily but never banished altogether. ;et this kno!ledge d!ell like an eternal flame inside you. Only by being realistic about the !orld can you escape the illusion that good fortune lasts forever and prepare properly for your destiny. Deep in mind ho!ever that fortune never completely abandons he !hose inner riches remain superior to his fate. 7ine !> 8hen general confidence is high large and small mingle pleasantly. )t furthers the strong to meet !ith the !eak or the !ealthy !ith the poor during such periods for the lo!ly possess a kind of truth !hich penetrates the

artifices created by e3cessive advantage. Cutual benefit is the key here. *pontaneous contact based on the truth of inner feelings never fails. 7ine $> A princess marries a man of lesser rank but honors him as other !ives do their husbands. )n a union of the high and lo! modesty on the part of those of higher rank brings great success. 7ine % <at the top=> 8hen prosperity leads to decay misfortune follo!s. )magine a city !all collapsing into its o!n moat. )n times of collapse it helps no one to fight against over!helming odds. Coral strength is called for instead of violence. )n times of peace necessary defenses can erode. 2he city becomes vulnerable to attack. 2ry not to be like the citi6ens !ho becoming la6y and indifferent put their homes at risk. Be prepared for e3ternal problems. "o not allo! yourself to become complacent.

Artists note on painting, 1tandstill -- sky above, earth below: This hexagram indi ated no movement! 0eaven and earth are in a entral ir le, whi h symboli"es the blind spot we have when were at a 1tandstill and ant see a way o$t! /$tside the entral ir le, the sky and the earth hange pla es, indi ating that with enlarged vision omes more options!

-/* Stan2sti55
)n a state of standstill and decline confusion and disorder prevail. )nferior forces are on the rise !hile the po!ers of clarity and creativity are on the decline. )n such times the !ise take shelter in their o!n integrity and 5uietly remain faithful to their principles. Retreat from public activities and common e3changes until the times once again favor direct action. "uring periods of stagnation inferior elements in society prevail. 8hen the inmates are overrunning the asylum summon up your fortitude hide your !orth and !ithdra!. 4oncentrate on your personal affairs !ith a 5uiet dignity even if that means forfeiting short+term re!ards. "esiring to change a situation too 5uickly often creates e3tra conflict. By accepting hardship !hile striving to maintain integrity you are preparing for future gro!th. ?A seed of prosperity is often hidden inside the husk of misfortune.@ 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> )nferior forces are advancing so it is best to remain in a position of lo! visibility. Others of like mind may follo! you into a temporary shelter from events= it is through this means that plans may be made for future action. 7ine 2> 8hen events have reached a standstill because of the corrupt influences of inferior people the !ise endure the period of stagnation and accept suffering !illingly in order to preserve their integrity. Avoid submission to inducements that do not serve your long+term interests. 7ine 3> ;esser people !ho have usurped po!er improperly eventually reali6e that they are not e5ual to the task they have taken upon themselves. 8hen this occurs a sense of shame over!helms them and though they may not admit it they kno! that they have committed a serious miscalculation. 8hen this happens events may soon take a turn in your favor. Observe your adversaries closely for their inner feelings may hold the key to the future. 7ine !> *tagnation is !aning= the dam is about to burst. At such times it is essential to act only !ithin the boundaries of your authority. Personal e3uberance during the potential breaking of a deadlock can lead to e3cesses and error if you are not careful. Hse your intuition and trust your instincts. Are the time and conditions ripe for you to actA )f this is your calling the energy of the time !ill support you. 7ine $> 2he moment of transition has arrived and conditions are changing rapidly. But before you take action ask yourself ?7o! could ) failA 8hat could go !rongA@ 7ere danger besets a man overly confident of his capacities. Remain alert and skeptical and take care to see that all of your assets are !ell protected. Cove cautiously but determinedly like someone crossing a canyon on a tightrope. 2here is no going back ++ and there is no safety net belo!. 7ine % <at the top=> 2he period of stagnation is at an end and the time has come for direct action. "isintegration does not automatically give rise to peace and harmony but re5uires the action of a strong person capable of creating a ne! order. )n such circumstances great achievement is possible ++ particularly if fresh thinking results in ne! options that e3cite those !ho have been mired in stagnation.

Artists note on painting, 'ellowship -- sky above, %ire below: 'or the sky above, # depi ted the rainbow serpent o% the A$stralian aborigines -- a symbol o% sky arved reatively into the aves eiling! +elow there is a hearth %ire with bones pla ed pre isely at reg$lar intervals aro$nd it, representing h$man omm$nity!

-1* !e55o0shi,
8hen communal bonds unite a group of people great success is possible. But such bonds can develop only !hen personal interests are sub<ugated to goals that carry in them the essential virtues of humanity. 2he broader the basis for action the greater is the good that can be achieved. And the greater the potential good the more po!erful is the support behind it. A spirit of cooperation steadies the boat but it helps to have a beautiful island to ro! to!ard. ;earn to respect the strength in diversity for a communitys true po!er lies not in its numbers but in the diverse skills and collective resources of its members. $ust as the stoutest !alls are reinforced !ith many different materials so the strongest groups allo! differences to coe3ist inside the !hole. 8ith a unified group solidly behind you even very difficult enterprises can be attempted !ithout great risk. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 8hen guests gather at the door enthusiasm is high and divergent aims have not yet arisen. *uch are the beginning days of a fello!ship. Hse such moments carefully for they are opportunities not to be missed. 2o foster good!ill among many at the outset of great enterprises avoid secret agreements= good!ill is a shrub that flo!ers only in the light. 7ine 2> #ello!ship !ithin an e3clusive group brings regret or humiliation. )f social contacts are elitist snobbishness and unhealthy 5uarreling result. 2his creates limitations for everyone. Avoid pettiness and shallo! discrimination. Be open to others. *erious loss is unlikely but hard feelings created by an attempt to gain a temporary advantage are almost al!ays troublesome do!n the road. 7ine 3> 2hose !ho mistrust their allies spying on them and planning surprise maneuvers usually become trapped in their o!n nets. Avoid unnecessary plotting and scheming for this is a sure sign of the disintegration of community fello!ship. 8hen such a pattern has begun put a stop to it immediatelyE 2hings !ill only get !orse if you continue to play the game. 7ine !> Buarrels and misunderstandings among associates often have a !ay of settling themselves and this brings good fortune. ;et it happen because at this time fighting openly is not a good idea. 2he image is of the man !ho through a small mistake comes to see the error of his !ays before it is too late. Only by allo!ing for open disagreement can a community find its !ay= similarly each of us must be !illing to make a fe! missteps in order to triumph in the end. 7ine $> 2he strongest bond on earth is the one bet!een t!o human hearts that have come to kno! and share each others inmost thoughts and desires. 2hough separated by circumstances or fate= though divided by differences of opinion= though angered by each others behavior ++ if the bond is true nothing can break it. 2his type of union may cause some sadness and difficulty but in the end brings the s!eetest <oy kno!n to humankind.

7ine % <at the top=> 2here is fello!ship !ith convenient associates but heartfelt !armth is lacking. 2he image is a group of people !ho happen to live beside a certain lake= though they are cordial enough no great purpose unites them. But thats okay= civility may be the lo!est form of community but there is nothing inherently !rong !ith it. 2he situation is not terribly satisfying but neither is it a cause for great regret.

Artists note on painting, A%%l$en e -- %ire above, sky below: Above # painted %ire as a symboli %lame within a kind o% osmi pyramid shape! 1ky below (o%ten alled the creative) is depi ted as a %ertili"ed egg2 the eye indi ates the individ$al, the h$man so$l!

-6* Af:uence
*upreme success has comeE ;ike the proverbial pot of gold at the end of the rainbo! a person !hose fortunes have turned for the better shines brightly. At the core of this success lies unselfishness and modesty for it is the tendency of a fle3ible or yielding nature to bind po!erful forces to it particularly !hen prosperity begins to manifest. 8hen po!er is !ielded !ith grace and dignity there is supreme success and great abundanceE Ah but be careful. Along !ith any accumulation of !ealth or influence may come an increase of pride and arrogance. #ight this tendency if you !ant to continue prospering. *tay attentive enough to manage your affairs !ell. And remember that !hile prosperity of any kind certainly beats the alternative it is only one of many elements of a satisfying life. 2rue prosperity al!ays furthers the collective good. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> )n its first stages success is innocent and blameless since it has not yet faced the challenges !hich accomplishment brings. Avoid harm in the future by guarding against self+indulgence ++ sho! consideration by e3ercising the proper restraint. ;earn to speak of personal or business matters only !ith trusted advisors= to all others remain rela3ed and detached. ;eave your ego at the door= there is no space for arrogance. Acting thus !ill strengthen others perception of you as a person endo!ed !ith confidence as !ell as !ealth. 7ine 2> 2he first lesson after the reali6ation of success is to stay fluid and mobile. )t is not the sheer amount of !ealth !hich matters so much as its usefulness to you. 8ealth of any kind is most useful !hen it can be used to launch ne! undertakings for the good of all rather than <ust to strengthen your position. One means of doing this is to be generous !ith those !ho have helped you for the dedicated support of trust!orthy people is among the greatest of all assets. 7ine 3> Philanthropy is the obligation of those in possession of mature !ealth. Only by donating a portion of his !ealth to the service of a greater good can a man become free of the prison of his possessions. 2hose !ho lack great possessions should feel no shame in taking assistance for all !ealth is but a passing trust to be administered by any one person only for a short time. A small+minded person is unable to assume this attitude and as a result can never be truly free. 7ine !> )f pride and envy have surfaced in your life its time to let them go. "ont attempt to compete !ith others images of themselves= another persons ego is a !ild goose !aiting to be chased if ever there !ere one. 2his change also points to the dilemma of one !ho finds himself suddenly among the rich and po!erful. )n order to dine !ith the rich the poorer man often must pick up the check. Be !illing to do so !ithout hesitation or resentment and you !ill remain free in spirit and therefore be the e5ual of those around you. 7ine $> 2he person !ho is able to !in over others by unaffected sincerity and dignity al!ays finds himself or herself in a favorable position. 2his applies as much to persons of great !ealth and stature as to those beneath them. )t is the combination of sincerity and dignity that brings best results. 2hose !ho respond to improper behavior !ith these 5ualities have good fortune assured them.

7ine % <at the top=> 9ou are blessed by providence and en<oy good fortune. 9ou e3perience improvement in every !ay. Remember that supreme success goes to those !ho are in the !orld but not of it ++ !ho in the fullness of possession and at the height of po!er remain modest and !ink often to!ard heaven. Providence helps those !ho live !ith faith and gratitude !hile people help the person !ho is true. 2o he !ho has more !ill be given.

Artists note on painting, 0$mility -- earth above, mo$ntain below: The idea here is that bea$ty is hidden within! To symboli"e that hidden bea$ty, # painted a rose within the mo$ntain below! 0$mility allows one to be obs $re, even i% da""lingly brilliant and bea$ti%$l!

-8* Hu(i5it&
7umility is al!ays re!arded in human affairs <ust as valleys are filled by the erosion of great mountains. )t is the !ay of the universe to fill the empty cup and to empty the full. Regardless of your position humility is a positive and deceptively po!erful attribute. )f you are in a high position but are still humble people !ill be dra!n to you and the causes you espouse. )f your position is lo!ly humility !ill endear you to those of higher status. 2rue humility is a virtue to !hich all should aspire. 2he most successful people are those !ho kno! ho! to bring each situation into balance by reducing that !hich is too great and adding to that !hich is too little. *uch a person craves not po!er but balanced and stable relationships. 7umility is the virtue that allo!s you to perceive the balancing force in each situation= humble people are not prey to the many illusions !hich gro! out of self+importance. )f humility is not natural to your disposition make a conscious effort to develop a strain of self+effacing humor. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> Hnnecessary complications arise in the minds of the arrogant !hen facing a ma<or task. 4oncern about ho! one !ill be perceived !hile carrying out the task becomes an e3tra obstacle to its completion. 2he unassuming attitude that goes !ith humility on the other hand permits greater focus on the <ob at hand. 8hile the conceited fret over appearances or the opinions of others the humble concentrate on !hat needs to be done. Cake no claims or stipulations that can be contested and you !ill meet no resistance. 7ine 2> Profound humility is a gift. 8hen a person is so sincere that his or her motives cannot be called into 5uestion great good fortune is the re!ard. 7ine 3> 2here are fe! sadder sights than that of someone !ho is da66led by his or her o!n fame beauty or brilliance. *uccess for such people is usually short lived because in order to persevere to the end some degree of simple humanity is needed to gain the continued support of others. 4onversely there are fe! more noble achievements in creation than that of a person !ho despite great success retains his or her humility. >ood fortune attends them. 7ine !> Be!are of false modesty. :ven humility the most benevolent virtue can be carried too far. )n this case ho!ever it is no grave mistake because service is the responsibility besto!ed upon you. People in humble positions can also use false modesty as an e3cuse for !eakness or vacillation. 2rue humility does not imply humble goals or a slack attitude regarding performance standards. 2aking pride in your !ork is very different from a pride born of self+ importance. 7ine $> 2he !ise do not hesitate to take desperate measures !hen circumstances dictate such a response. But !hen the responsible person resorts to bold action he or she takes great care to see that the response is not born of a sense of self+importance but is e5ual to the need and that ob<ectivity and clarity of purpose preserve your position in the right. 8hen strong action does !in the day the honorable !arrior shrinks back into the cro!d.

7ine % <at the top=> 8hen mistakes are made and disagreement blo!s in as suddenly as a north !ind there is a great tendency to assign blame in all directions. 2he immodest immediately raise their shields thereby obscuring the truth from their o!n eyes. 2he !eak take offense and shrink a!ay in self+pity and doubt. But the sincere and humble see the situation as a challenge to be met head+on first by e3amining themselves in!ardly to identify their role in creating the current problems and then by having the courage to act forcefully but fairly to rectify mistakes and clear the air. 7umility is the true mark of nobility and al!ays bodes good fortune.

Artists note on painting, 3nth$siasm -- th$nder above, earth below: This lands ape depi ts enth$siasm, and # hose the example o% %emale sex$al energy, depi ting the earth itsel% as a %emale body, with the indi ation o% th$nder above as rising ex itement!

-9* Enthusias(
:normous creative energy is unleashed by enthusiasm. 2his energy is like po!erful music that inspires great numbers of people loosening old constraints and generating ne! opportunities. )ndeed the po!er of enthusiasm is best symboli6ed by music and dance for it is guided more by the heart than the head. 2hus great good fortune can follo! !hen the leader of an enthusiastic group is a person of strong character one able to guide this positive force to!ard a favorable destination. :nthusiasm !hether in a personal relationship or !ithin a group generates a special kind of electricity. 8hen a concert cro!d is charged up the singer scales ne! heights and life becomes its o!n re!ard. #or !ho is not in a!e of thunderA And !ho !ould fail to fill his or her lungs in the aftermath of a cleansing rainA Arouse the passionate support of others !hile ad<usting your ideas and plans to suit their needs. )n this !ay you can fill your sails !ith the mighty !ind of popular support. 2o arouse others redouble your o!n dedication and dare to create an environment that is free of tension. 2ake <oy in your !ork. 7arness the po!er of song and dance. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> *elf+consciously flaunting your o!n enthusiasm brings misfortune= those around you must ignite their o!n flames. *imply turning up the <ets on your burners !ill not help if those around you are out of fuel. )f others cannot keep up !ith you you may have to slo! the pace. But if your associates have fuel but no fire your selfless absorption in the !ork at hand can become the flint that ignites their enthusiasm. A sense of unity is called forth. 7ine 2> 8hen !aves of enthusiasm take over a group the !ise man !atches for small signs and vie!s the !orld !ithout illusion. 8hen the first signs of misfortune appear he !ithdra!s 5uickly !aiting not even until the end of the day. )n this !ay he advances his o!n position !hile serving the interests of the group. 4lear+headedness is vital in times of great e3citement. 7ine 3> ?*he !ho hesitates is lost.@ )n this situation hesitation brings regret. 2he right moment for sei6ing an opportunity or approaching a benefactor must be selected carefully but !hen that time comes action should be taken immediately. >iving your allegiance to a !orthy cause or leader may !ell be appropriate if such a move !ould further your o!n interests. *ei6e the day or !atch your chances disappear. Rather than looking to some outside force do your best to advance yourself through !ell+timed personal effort.

7ine !> >reat !orks spring from those able to a!aken enthusiasm in others through self+confidence and decisiveness. A person !ithout doubts and !ho is sincere attracts others naturally. 2he po!er of such a person is enhanced through the sharing of po!er and responsibility !ith others. 2hus others are !illing to return cooperation and become trust!orthy allies and supporters. 7ine $> )f enthusiasm is blocked you may be e3periencing constant pressure or psychological suffocation. )n such a conte3t !hen you feel restricted bogged do!n or lacking in the ability to e3press your ideas or put them into effect do not !orry. )t is this e3act situation that !ill prevent you from !asting your energies and keep you alive. Jie! this situation as an advantage. 7ine % <at the top=> :ven if your enthusiasm is misguided at this time its not a big problem. :veryone suffers delusions from time to time. 2he bigger problem !ould be an inability to dream at all. 2he sober reali6ation that a false dream has run its course can in itself be a sign of a fresh beginning. #or those !ith chronic enthusiasm its essential to be able to separate the dreamer from the dream.

Artists note on painting, 'ollowing -- lake above, th$nder below: 0ere we have a path in the %orm o% stones a ross the lake, so that 'ollowing an o $r! The th$nder is implied by the slight dist$rban e in the lake near the stones! The path here seems to lead to om%ort and prote tion in the aves!

-;* !o55o0ing
#ollo!ing brings supreme success. 9ou may not be able to change the direction of the !ind but by fre5uently ad<usting your sails you can arrive at your destination and reali6e a <oy that moves others to follo!. 2hose !ho !ould ac5uire a follo!ing must speak the language of their follo!ers. 2hose !ho !ould be loved must become the imagined lover of their beloved. 2hose !ho !ould prosper must bend !ith the pressures of the !orld. )n matters of principle stand firm= in matters of style and taste s!im !ith the current. )f guile or self+aggrandi6ement enters the e5uation resistance !ill be !hat follo!s. #ocus on the common good in order to remain unharmed. )n the affairs of humanity change is constant and old ideas are continually discarded in favor of ne! ones. Only by being adaptable to the demands of the time can a great leader emerge. Only by ad<usting to changing circumstances can one prosper in the !orld of commerce. Remain fle3ible and you !ill gain the confidence of those around you. Bend and you shall not break. Activity and rest in good balance !ill not only serve the situation !ell but !ill maintain a state of healthy energy minimi6ing internal and e3ternal resistance to your goals. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 8hen a person of vision undertakes a great task he or she must often change ob<ectives in the course of events. 8hen these changes gro! out of sincere communication !ith those of different opinions good fortune follo!s. But care must be taken not to become a mere !eather vane of current opinion. 4arry your convictions out into the cro!d stay open to the ideas of others but hold your ground on matters of integrity. 7ine 2> 4hoose your associates carefully. )f you have incompetent people around you the time may have come to dismiss them or at least distance yourself from them. At the same time be !ary of associating only !ith the strong and po!erful. 2he moon shines brightly in a sea of small stars but vanishes !ith the rising of a single sun. 7ine 3> As you move through life opportunities arise to develop ne! associations !ith po!erful distinguished or other!ise !orth!hile persons. Associating !ith good people brings good fortune. But each ne! connection !ith someone important also re5uires an e5ual and opposite diminishing of a relationship you have !ith someone less important. 2he stouthearted leave behind !hat is inferior and superficial and accept the challenges of developing ne! relationships. 7ine !> )t often happens that as a person attains a position of influence he or she attracts a chorus of flatterers !ho use their supposed loyalty to gain personal advantage. Be !ary of such flatterers. 2heir influence is subtle but can be very destructive. #lattery is most effective !ith the immodest those !ith large egos. 7old your ego in check during times of success and you !ill be able to see through the insincere intentions of subordinates. Not being able to see parasites for !hat they are is a precursor to misfortune.

7ine $> *et your compass to!ard !hat is beautiful and true have confidence in your o!n intuition and sail out into the glistening sea. Perseverance furthers and good fortune ensues. 7ine % <at the top=> )t may be time to seek the counsel of someone !iser and more e3perienced than you. Be receptive to advice from someone you respect and make the proper ad<ustments. )f such a person agrees to !ork actively on behalf of your cause or enterprise supreme good fortune a!aitsE Another possibility here is that through understanding and respect you are the one <oined by a follo!er !ith !hom a supportive bond is formed.

Artists note on painting, &epairing .hat is 1poiled -- mo$ntain above, wind below: The wind oming $p %rom below will event$ally blow away the rot! This takes time, so # $sed olors o% de ay as m$ h as possible! 0owever, the wind is vigoro$s and $ltimately will tri$mph!

-=* )e,airing What is S,oi5e2

*omething has been spoiled and it is time to repair the damage. )n the !orld of human affairs indulgence and corruption gro! like !eeds in an untended garden= they must be faced s5uarely and rooted out through bold action. :liminating corruption ++ and the sloppiness that often leads to corruption ++ is one of the most ennobling of all human enterprises and can clear the !ay for fresh ne! beginnings. *uch repair leads to supreme success. 2he time has come to be lean and efficient. 2he !eeds must be rooted out no! before the !hole garden is lost. #ighting decay indifference and corruption is not a simple matter= all steps must be evaluated carefully and planning must precede action. Resist the temptation to strike out prematurely. >ather strength behind you and marshal your inner resources because arresting decay is no simple matter. 8hen you do act pay close attention to the process. Cake your strike as precise and clear as the path of the surgeons knife. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> :3cessive reliance on tradition has produced corruption but this corruption is not deeply rooted. Repair can be achieved !ithout too much effort even though some danger is al!ays present. Remain alert to the risks inherent in all change and you !ill be able to avoid possible damage. Remember that repair in itself is not a panacea. Repair efforts must be !atched carefully particularly in their early stages to see that the previous rot is not contaminating them as !ell. 7ine 2> )n attempting to repair difficult situations that involve long+standing relationships a certain lightness of spirit is called for. Among friends and intimates a !ell+timed <est can be an effective lance. Righteous indignation on the other hand is more like a crude bomb ++ and one that is liable to blo! up in your face. 7ine 3> :veryone makes mistakes= everyone !ants to correct them but only the !ise kno! !hen and ho! to stop trying. 8hats done is done= you cannot unring the bell. At the same time it is better to be a bit too energetic in trying to rectify past errors than to have no conscience at all about them. 7ine !> *loppiness is <ust beginning to sho! itself but you may be too !eak by yourself at this time to take much effective action. 8hat is no! spoiling might decay further unless you begin to turn things around no!. Prepare remedial action. 7ine $> 9ou are able !ith some help to sort out problems resulting from past neglect. 9ou cant do it all by yourself but !ith the help of able supporters you !ill be able to bring about a thorough reform or usher in a ne! beginning. *upport for your efforts !ill not come easily but eventually others !ill praise you for it. 7ine % <at the top=> Not all important !ork takes place in the day+to+day !orld. *topping to let the !orld go by on its o!n and using the time to cultivate your o!n personal gro!th can be of great value ++ not only to you but ultimately to others as !ell. Remember that !hen !ithdra!ing from events it is essential not to fall into the trap of simply sitting idly and critici6ing the actions of others.

Artists note on painting, The Approa h o% 1pring -- earth above, lake below: The theme in this painting is the approa h o% dawn! The earth above has already been to$ hed by %irst light, and the lake below is still in pre-dawn gloom! # wanted to give this ill$stration the anti ipatory %eeling o% a new beginning!

->* The A,,roach of S,ring

*pring is approaching. >ood times ahead seem inevitable= there is vitality in the air. 2his is a most auspicious time. ;ike a snake emerging from hibernation negative forces are only <ust beginning to stir and can be effectively controlled. 2his is a time of hopeful progress and must be used to best advantage. 8hen approaching good fortune conscientious !ork pays great dividends. A clear road lies ahead. )n the spring seeds that have been lying dormant are ready to bloom. Act no! for at some point this ripe opportunity for advancement !ill be challenged. No spring lasts forever. )ts al!ays !ise to stay alert and note the changing signs of the times. )n doing so preparing for less abundant times is a noble and fruitful effort. Cake the most of it. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 8hen the forces of good begin to prevail people of influence take notice and men and !omen of ability are dra!n to the center of action. )f you sense such movement you are !ell advised to <oin in. But dont let yourself be s!ept a!ay by the tide of events. 2his brings good fortune. 7ine 2> 8hen you are offered a good opportunity prospects for success are very favorable. 2his is a good time to take strong valiant action. 8hen a person possesses inner strength and self+confidence the future need not be a concern for everything !ill move in a positive direction. 7ine 3> 8hen things are going !ell the great danger is that you !ill rela3 and become careless. :n<oy your successes but remain mindful of ho! you have achieved them. 2here is a natural human tendency to let up once you are ahead but the great players challenge themselves until the end of the game. 7ine !> An open+minded approach brings success. Organi6ations that value performance over superficial 5ualities advance much more 5uickly than those that take a complacent cli5uey attitude. Avoid pre<udices against those of different backgrounds. 8hen complacency creeps into your personal life radical action may be necessary to change the prevailing mood. 7ine $> 2he greatest leaders reveal their true po!er by attracting people of e3cellent ability and by allo!ing key associates the freedom to e3ercise their o!n <udgment. 2he person able to give po!er to those !ho can effectively e3ercise it gains much more po!er in return. 7ine % <at the top=> 8hen a sage returns from seclusion to reenter the day+to+day !orld great good fortune falls on those !hom he teaches and helps. *eek ob<ective advice from those you respect particularly those !ho have not been caught up in your !orldly affairs. 2heir perceptions may be to provide you !ith a ne! !indo! on the !orld. *pring is al!ays the season of ne! relationships. )n the bounty of good times ne! bonds are formed effortlessly. Relationships born in spring can serve !ell to !arm the follo!ing autumn and !inter.

Artists note on painting, /verview -- wind above, earth below: The idea %or this hexagram is that the wind is everywhere and an be viewed as either %ar or near! To depi t near and %ar and in-between, # showed the earth in detail lose $p, b$t more ephemeral in the distan e! .hen we ontemplate the present, we see a lot o% detail, and as things re ede in distan e or time, the pi t$re o%ten gets ha"y!

/?* Overvie0
Overvie! is a time for composure and contemplation. As a result of profound contemplation a hidden force emanates from us influencing others !ithout their being a!are of it. "o not underestimate the po!er of this force. ;ike the !ind blo!ing across the treetops its presence is perceived through the effect it has on everything it touches. *hallo! !ells rarely strike !ater and shallo! minds often come up empty. 2he ability to keep still and simply observe deepens resolve and attracts good fortune. "iscern the difference bet!een !hat is deep and !hat is surface !ithin yourself ++ and you !ill be able to distinguish bet!een the t!o in the outer !orld as !ell. "uring a period bet!een events the practice of stillness !ith a!areness is a good idea. Only by observing and absorbing the true nature of things ++ by apprehending the rhythms and cycles !hich guide all creation ++ can !e discover the la!s that apply to our lives. :3amine yourself and the overall situation not <ust !ith the thought of discovering truth but also !ith the idea of focusing your personal po!er. 2his is a time to see and be seen. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 8hen the novice practices contemplation he or she often fails to perceive the unity of forces at !ork in the current environment due to a lack of e3perience !isdom or good <udgment. 8hile such a vie! is all right for beginners people of substance should kno! better than to be misled by the surface appearance of things and thereby miss the connectivity of the !hole. One must look more deeply. 8hen in the presence of someone possessing deep understanding pay close attention. :ven !hen you do not actually comprehend a !ise persons advice it can still help you. 7ine 2> *elf+centeredness inhibits contemplation by replacing the larger vision !ith one that is small. )ts like trying to vie! the !ide !ide !orld through a small crack in a closet door. )f you !ould be successful in the affairs of the !orld let go of self+absorption kick the door open and let the !orld enter your soul. Only in this !ay can you avoid the harm that small+mindedness inevitably brings. 7ine 3> )ntrospection does not mean escaping into the fantasy !orld of your o!n dreams. ;earn to contemplate the effects your actions have upon the real !orld. )n so doing you !ill discover !hether or not you are truly making progress. 7ine !> A person !ho has comprehended the solution to a problem or envisioned a path to success should be placed in an honored position similar to that of a revered guest. 2he independence of the guest continues to allo! him or her to offer fresh insight !hile being close enough to be heard clearly and often. Avoid regarding perceptive people merely as tools to further your o!n !ork= their value is greater than that.

7ine $> *elf+e3amination is called for. "ont brood over your o!n shortcomings ++ that is a trap for the !eakE *tudy the effect you have on people and ho! events tend to unfold around you. )f such effects are positive then you !ill be able to en<oy fulfillment. "o not try to deny the obvious. *eek truth from e3perience and keep your eyes unflinchingly upon the flame of reality rather than the shado!s of illusion. 7ine % <at the top=> 7ere a person has achieved a contemplation of life that transcends egocentric considerations and feelings. 7e is like the hiker !ho has finally reached the top of the mountain. )f you have attained this position and perspective sit for a !hile and en<oy the vie!. )f not it might be time to hit the trail.

Artists note on painting, C$tting Thro$gh -- %ire above, th$nder below: #n this painting, the %ire as lightning and the th$nder below are obvio$s! 1in e this hexagram re%ers o%ten to reward and p$nishment, # added heavy borders to the pi t$re, whi h symboli"e the bo$ndaries, legal parameters, and o%%i ial borders that we are C$tting Thro$gh!

/-* Cutting Through

2he situation calls for confronting a tenacious knot and cutting through it. *omeho! the !ay to harmony and unity is blocked or frustrated ++ perhaps by a tangle of deceit or corruption. ;ike Ale3ander the >reat cutting the >ordian knot take decisive action and you !ill meet !ith good fortune. "ont be afraid to shake things up a bit. 2he ability to take corrective measures !hen they are needed is an essential trait of true leadership. 2hose !ho bring discipline to bear must above all be honest ++ !ith others and !ith themselves. 7onesty is the hallmark of the strong and self+confident. 2he successful person masters the art of honesty much as a s!ordsman masters fencing. 8hen lies delusions and game playing are getting in the !ay of team!ork a s!ift s!ord of honest action perhaps even punishment must be !ielded to protect ones integrity and values. "ecisiveness !ith integrity at a time like this brings good fortune. 2hough your actions be vigorous they must not be hasty severe or arbitrary. Be sure to carefully consider all the circumstances. )n the case of a serious disruption of relations or events you must forgive but not forget ++ at least until a person has made reparation for his mistakes. )f corrective action is necessary make certain that it fits the crime. 8hen rules have become slack and useless only through the institution of clear and s!ift penalties can their effectiveness be restored. )n situations !here serious issues of <ustice are at stake keep careful records and do not hesitate to go public !ith the truth. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> A single first offense is not cause for condemnation and stiff punishment but some form of corrective action is needed in order to prevent further transgressions. )f you have been !ronged confront the matter openly but !ithout hostility. 7ine 2> 2he true miscreant must be punished for his crimes and all serious violations of decency dealt !ith directly. 2here is an inclination to go too far in such situations as personal indignation muddies the !aters. :ven so punishment is !arranted.

7ine 3> )n trying to cut through a knotty old problem you may have gotten your sa! stuck in the !ood. Old hard feelings may still attach themselves to the problem and can kick back at you if you attempt to right past !rongs. )t is not your responsibility to re!rite the past= and since the guilty do not submit you cannot solve the problem. At this point there is no blame in <ust !alking a!ay from the !hole situation before it gets any !orse. 7ine !> 8hen facing great obstacles or po!erful adversaries never overreach your authority and never outstrip your resources. Cove ahead !ith caution and harden your resolve. Persevering !ith difficult situations in the end brings good fortune. As !hen biting through a tough nut sharp teeth may be re5uired. 7ine $> 2his change points to a very difficult situation. All decent people have a tendency to!ard leniency but !hen the facts of a situation are clear+cut and a grievous !rong has been committed strong corrective action must be taken. *uch action may take the form of punishment to those !ho have committed the offense. )n such cases bear in mind that the first <ob of the administrator of punishment is to see that the punishment is effective. )n other !ords that it serve its highest intended purpose ++ to cause the offenders to understand the !rong they have committed and prevent them from committing it in the future. 7ine % <at the top=> 2hose !ho believe that small sins do no harm are often sliding on the slippery slope to ruin. 8hen someone turns a deaf ear to legitimate grievances in small matters he or she may be ac5uiring guilt at such a pace that there !ill be no alternative but to take stern measures against them. Another possibility is that the culprit is not greedy and does not desire !hat belongs to someone else. 7e may simply be una!are of small indecencies or not even perceive them as such. )f helped to see his error in small things he may improve in larger matters as !ell.

Artists note on painting, 4ra e and +ea$ty -- mo$ntain above, %ire below: This is another hexagram that seemed to deal with ill$sion! The %ire below gleams on the mo$ntain and lari%ies the view bea$ti%$lly, b$t sporadi ally! The %ire is %ar away %rom the mo$ntaintop it ill$minates! The light is a gi%t that annot be taken %or granted!

//* +race an2 Beaut&

A splashy sunset bathes the mountains in a soft radiance= the light of a full moon dances on the surface of a rippling river ++ grace and beauty adorn the natural !orld. >race is neither an all+ po!erful force nor is it the essential or fundamental thing. By itself it is form !ithout content. >race is moonlight on !ater not the sunlight at noon. 9et grace brings artistic e3pression into the !orld and enhances the 5uality of our lives. >race brings success in small matters. )n the arts grace arises out of adherence to form, the dancer becoming the form of the dance= the musician giving life to the form of a musical score= the painter becoming one !ith the brush and canvas. )n human affairs grace is also aligned !ith form ++ !ith mastery of aesthetic and cultural forms honed by time and honored by tradition. 2hrough appreciation of graceful forms in human culture !e apprehend the pure beauty of the ideal of life raised above the mere struggle for survival. Possession of grace like the bearing of a beautiful gift to a !edding can add stature to those in humble positions. 2ake care to lend grace and dignity to small matters !hile giving the !eight of deep and careful consideration to matters of greater conse5uence. 2hough it should not be confused !ith true substance an artistic flair can take one far in this !orld. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> Resist the temptation to create false impressions of your position or stature. )t is more graceful and dignified to simply !ash your o!n car !hen picking up an honored guest than to rent a limousine. 7ine 2> Petty self+adornment does not bring success. )t can be fatal to confuse vanity !ith grace. "evoting too much attention to e3ternal appearances stifles grace of movement and bearing ++ !hich are far more important. 7ine 3> All lives have their charmed moments. 2his reading refers to the ?mello! mood@ induced by !ine, !e can be transported by the spell of the !ine or overcome by its negative effects. ;earn to stay a!ake for the pleasant moments and through kindness and good humor gracefully bring charm into the lives of others. Avoid overindulgence and good fortune !ill be yours. 7ine !> >race brilliance fame and fortuneA Or simplicity dignity honor and transcendenceA )f this is your choice look for a sign from the outside. )f you have any doubts at all very likely simplicity is the ans!er. 2his choice may cause a slight feeling of regret at first but in the end !ill bring true peace of mind and stable relationships !ith good people.

7ine $> People !ith fe! material possessions may feel ashamed Fand lacking in graceG !hen meeting someone of great !ealth !hom they admire. 2hough a certain amount of apprehension is natural sincerity of feeling is the most valuable gift bet!een friends. )n the end it is this sincerity that brings success. 7ine % <at the top=> 2he fully developed person e3udes grace from his inner being and has little need of superficial adornments. 8hen form is perfectly aligned !ith content simple measures are sufficient to assure success.

Artists note on painting, 1plitting Apart -- mo$ntain above, earth below: This hexagram shows an earth5$ake! #n this ase the mo$ntain above is a vol ano, as there are o%ten vol anoes in an area o% seismi a tivity! 6sing opposite olors -- red and green -heightened the impression o% strong %or es p$lling apart and splitting %rom one another!

/1* S,5itting A,art

All is not !hat it seems. At this time reality seems like a hall of mirrors. )ntrigues are multiplying like summer flies and there are rumors of discontent. )t is the time of illusion disintegration distrust and deception. 8hen you find yourself trapped in a hall of mirrors sometimes it is necessary to retrace your steps. Return to the familiar= take solace in !hat is firm and secure. 2here is no blame in holding back= indeed it is your responsibility to keep your strength intact for the period of resurrection !hich follo!s the period of disintegration as surely as da!n follo!s the night. "iscretion is the better part of valor ++ and good timing is very important too. ;earn to choose the proper moments for action thereby avoiding futile effort. Be particularly attentive at such a time as this for changes that signal a time to retreat. )n the realm of personal relations discovering illusion is al!ays painful and confusing. 8hen in the midst of such a period it is !ise to avoid undertaking any bold ne! moves and it is especially important not to <ump to conclusions !hen you sense that nothing is 5uite !hat it seems. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> *lander and intrigue abound, the image of rats scurrying about undermining the foundation of a house. At such moments any action at all can provide ne! ammunition for the inferior forces at !ork. Only by doing nothing can you hasten the end. Be patient. And brave. 7ine 2> 2he rise of troublesome people and disintegrating forces is continuing. 2here is no help on the hori6on. 8hen the streets are filled !ith an angry mob it furthers one to bolt the door. *tubborn obstinacy in such circumstances could be fatal to your cause. 7ine 3> Perhaps the time has come to break a!ay from old relationships or situations that are e3erting a negative influence on you. One !ay to accomplish this is to proclaim your loyalty to or affection for a person !ho is of like mind. Be prepared for direct opposition !hen you do this but kno! that you are doing the right thing. Remember that change is necessary for gro!th. 7ine !> 7ave you e3perienced misfortune recentlyA Accept your fate and kno! that all suffering does pass. 2ake heart in the belief that things !ont get any !orse than they are right no!. 7ine $> 2he forces of deception have undergone a sudden change yielding to the superior force of truth. 8hat is inferior !ill ultimately !eaken= those !ho have !aited for this outcome !ill be in position to take advantage of the situation !hen the tide turns. )t is time to start rallying support for your position.

7ine % <at the top=> 2he period of disintegration comes to an end. 2he negative forces have spent themselves. :vil is not destructive of good alone ++ it also destroys itself. And !hen evil decays the compost it leaves behind nourishes the good seeds that remain. 2here is a fresh ne! invigorating energy in the air. Hse itE

Artists note on painting, &et$rning -- earth above, th$nder below: This hexagram o%ten re%ers to the winter solsti e or the ret$rn o% the s$n a%ter darkness! # hose to show the depth o% dark and winter, ,$st be%ore ret$rn takes pla e, with the small light at the end o% the t$nnel!

/6* )eturning
2here is a turning point that recharges you and eventually brings success. )t is associated !ith the turning of darkness back to!ard the light ++ the !inter solstice the shortest day of the year the day !hen darkness begins to decrease and the hours of daylight increase. )t is the beginning of a turnaround ++ a time for letting go of the old and making !ay for the ne!= a time of ne! beginnings ++ and it starts !ith rest. "ont move too fast. 2he ne! momentum is <ust beginning= the turnaround demands that your energy be recharged by ade5uate rest so that your life force !ill not be spent prematurely. 2his principle of hibernation of allo!ing energy to rene! itself and be strengthened by rest applies to many situations, recuperation after an illness= the slo! return of trust after a period of estrangement= the careful development of ne! relationships after a splitting apart of old ones. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> :veryone suffers setbacks from time to time. 2he lucky ones suffer some small ones early in life so that they learn that they can survive a period of collapse. )n this case a minor setback is little more than an inconvenience but could serve to build character so long as proper action is taken before it goes too far. Persevere return to the main road and good fortune !ill lie ahead. 7ine 2> *pectacular comebacks in any field are a sign of self+mastery. Achieving success the first time on the strength of ones natural abilities is good luck= coming back after failure or disappointment is a sign of true strength of character. #ollo! the e3ample of such people= they have much to teach you about discarding egocentric concerns and embracing the good. 2his !ill only bring good fortune. 7ine 3> 2hose !ho continually reverse their direction through a lack of self+control run great risks and are sometimes thought to be brilliant but most often are considered foolish and unstable. 4hart a steady course and move steadily to!ard your goal. 7ine !> 2hose under the influence of inferior people can often be turned around by the positive influence of one true friend. A !illingness to abandon the herd instincts of the small+minded cro!d may lead to lonely moments but !ith the help of a like+minded person can lead to success. 7ine $> 8hen the turning point arrives the noble search their o!n heart and in so doing discover their proper course. 2hose !ho are honest !ith themselves rise to the occasion during moments of great importance. 7ine % <at the top=> Blind obstinacy al!ays brings misfortune because opportunities available to the open+minded are lost !hen rigid pride prevails. Once a golden opportunity has been missed trying to re+create it !ill not !ork. 2he best attitude in such a circumstance is to be humble let go and learn from your mistakes.

Artists note on painting, #nno en e -- sky above, th$nder below: The s$ggestion in the text is that there isnt m$ h one an do abo$t the $nexpe ted, whether the o$t ome is benign or $n%ort$nate, so # $sed a h$rri ane as a symbol o% this powerlessness in the hands o% nat$re!

/8* Innocence
)nnocence implies a natural harmlessness openness and pure intentions !hich are unsullied by ulterior motives. 2he state of innocence has less to do !ith age than attitude= innocence springs from a heart that remains open to <oy and !onder. )nnocence !hen guided by a firm faith in !hat is right brings supreme success. Naivete unanchored by the ability to discern right from !rong on the other hand brings misfortune. 2he hallmark of innocence is a !illingness to treat all creatures !ith compassion and respect. 2hose !ho possess a pure heart are best guided by their instincts and intuition. 2hinking too much severs links !ith the guidance of the heart ++ namely a clear intuition and strong guiding instincts. Be !ary of courses of action that re5uire too much cleverness. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 2he first impulses of the heart are almost al!ays pure and good. )t is safe to follo! them confidently provided your conscience is not offended. 8hen you reach an impasse in tangled affairs it is helpful to revie! the original impulse for that action to e3amine the original purpose. >ood fortune a!aits. 7ine 2> 2he superior farmer doesnt calculate the harvest !hile still plo!ing the field. *uccess in the current situation is likely so long as you dont try to measure ho! !ell you are doing !hile you are still in the field. #ocus on the task at hand. ;ike the farmer cultivate your field one ro! at a time focus on the !ork and the re!ards !ill take care of themselves. )t is this innocence that !ill lead to a good harvest. 7ine 3> Hne3pected and undeserved misfortune can befall even the most innocent. )n such situations it is of no use to claim that you have been treated unfairly= as parents tell their children life is unfair the !orld is unfair. 2here is nothing to do in the face of unfair loss e3cept to accept it !ith e5uanimity. 7ine !> Remember that if something truly belongs to or !ith you it cannot be taken from you. ;et go of it and it !ill naturally return to you. *imilarly as long as you are true to yourself and listen to your intuition you can make no mistakes. 7ine $> *udden misfortuneE )t is important to discover !hether a misfortune has been an accident of nature or the result of your o!n mistakes. )f it !as an accident take no action= let nature take its course !ithout interference. "o not try to come up !ith a clever 5uick+fi3 solution. 7ine % <at the top=> :ven innocent action can backfire if the timing is not right for progress. 8hen there is little hope in a situation the best thing to do is to !ait peacefully. Other!ise you run the risk of creating trouble for yourself and others.

Artists note on painting, Containment o% Potential -- mo$ntain above, sky below: The diamond pyramid %orm symboli"es the sky within the earth in this hexagram! # attempted to show that the osmi diamond here had in%l$en ed the very shape and text$re o% the earth itsel% -- a divine design beneath the m$ndane!

/9* Contain(ent of $otentia5

2his points to the containment of great po!er ++ po!er that increases as it is !isely ste!arded. ;ike a river !hich has been dammed or a cooking pot !ith the lid on holding and containing po!er produces enormous potential. "uring normal times daily ritual and habit help keep life ordered and serene= but in times of great opportunity the force of a po!erful personality is re5uired. #ocused attention is re5uired to channel this great potential and achieve supreme success. 8ith regard to !hat is on your mind you have considerable reserves of energy and support to dra! upon. 2his is the right time to nurture creativity by collecting and organi6ing your good ideas and plans. )n this !ay even great and difficult undertakings can be successful. A hidden source of po!er for the great is the study of the past. 2he lives of !ise and successful men and !omen are like treasures buried in the earth. >reat good fortune comes to those !ho unearth these valuable treasures by applying the lessons of the ages to current events. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> A changing element in the first position indicates that you should restrain your impulse to act at this time. 9ou may !ish to make strong advances but there is an obstacle in your !ay. 4ompose yourself and !ait for a better time to vent pent+up energies. Cean!hile keeping still !ill cause your strength to increase. 7ine 2> 2here is no point in struggling. 2he forces opposing you are simply too strong= !aiting patiently is imperative. *ubmit to the current condition and content yourself !ith buying time. )n this !ay your energy !ill accumulate for vigorous action !hen the time is right. 7ine 3> 2he obstacle has been cleared from the road= the time has come to ride !ith fresh horses. 8orking !ith people of like minds and strong !ills brings good fortune. )n the period immediately follo!ing the removal of a ma<or roadblock take care to remain alert not only for challenges ahead but also for threats approaching from the rear. )f the ?obstacle@ !as your o!n attitude you may have to remove the roadblock more than once. 2his is best accomplished by <oining !ith others !hose po!ers of focused attention are perhaps stronger than your o!n. 7ine !> :arly precautions taken to restrain a !ild force prevent misfortune. $ust as in ancient times a board !as fastened to the forehead of young bulls to render their horns harmless so it is smart to restrain reckless forces before they do great damage. )n doing so good fortune ensues because prevention is better than cure. 8hen disruptive forces threaten e3traordinary precautions are necessary. "o not rule out the possibility that the disruptive force in this instance may be inside you. 7ine $> 8hen confronting a po!erful force it is often best to meet the challenge through indirect action. 2he matador restrains the bull not by blocking its path but by deftly stepping aside and draining its force bit by bit. By his understanding of the beast he gains po!er over it. *imilarly by understanding the source of ones challenge one can and !ill render it po!erless. >ood fortune a!aits.

7ine % <at the top=> *upreme good fortuneE >reat and po!erful forces inhibited in the recent past by temporary restraints are no! building strength and momentum. Hse your creative po!ers to advance strongly at the present time= ride !ith the current. "o not hesitate to accept a ne! level of responsibility. 9ou have an opportunity no! to e3ercise a great positive influence.

Artists note on painting, 7o$rishment -- mo$ntain above, th$nder below: #n this ase, the th$nder below is symboli"ed by the energy o% the planted harvest at the %oot o% the mo$ntain! This harvest will provide 7o$rishment, b$t only be a$se it has been n$rt$red with a lot o% work! This hexagram seemed to have to do with the a t$al energy one $ses to make something happen, so the harvest is lo ated in a lands ape that wo$ld re5$ire e%%ort and planning to %arm!

/;* "ourish(ent
Nourishment refers to much more than <ust a healthy diet. )t is the care+giving function. :ating properly implies care for oneself= providing healthy meals in the home is a sign of caring for the family. 2he !riter of a great book or composer of an inspiring piece of music also provides nourishment ++ to humanity in general by caring deeply about his or her !ork and offering the fruits of it to the !orld. 9ou can kno! people by observing !hat they choose to nourish in their o!n lives. "o they feed and develop their o!n bodiesA "o they cultivate their spirits their intellects their moral valuesA "o they nourish and care for those around themA )f so to !hom do they devote their energiesA 2he most successful people are temperate in eating and drinking thinking and dreaming. 2hey strengthen the !orld by nurturing the higher nature in man. Pay heed to your inner thoughts and impulses ignoring thoughts that undermine a healthy and persevering attitude. A !ise person is temperate in the consumption of food and drink because to be other!ise only leads to discomfort= the fact that temporary pleasure may precede the discomfort does not influence the person of mature character. )n the same !ay be discriminating in your !ords and actions lest a desire for temporary advantage lead you to cause pain for yourself or others. :nrich your o!n character and you !ill naturally nourish everyone around you. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> :nvy is the dark mealy underside of the rock of healthy ambition. "eep envy the kind fed by self+pity al!ays brings misfortune. 2o counter a tendency to!ard envy practice self+reliance= take control. 7ine 2> 2hose !ho earn their daily bread are much happier than those !ho subsist on the charity of others. 4ontinuing to be over reliant on the generosity of others brings misfortune. 2hey !ho chop their o!n fire!ood are t!ice !armed. 7ine 3> 8hen real nourishment is re<ected in favor of ?<unk food@ of the body or mind natural strength !anes 5uickly and significant achievement becomes difficult. 7ine !> 8hen seeking help for a !orthy enterprise one must be as 6ealous as a hungry tiger. 2o the degree your enterprise serves the common good others !ill honor your determination. Only by generating a strong head of steam can the trains engine scale the mountain pass. >ood fortune. 7ine $> ;earning to listen brings successE Personal advice especially from the !ise and perceptive must be heeded !hen you are facing difficult tasks. But !hen someones advice helps you through a critical situation you must not

delude yourself into thinking that you succeeded on your o!n. 9ou must recogni6e this dependence upon the other or face misfortune !hen undertaking your ne3t assignment. 7ine % <at the top=> A burden is borne by those in e3alted positions for the influence of such people is great and they are responsible in some !ay or other for the nourishment of those belo! them. A!areness of this should not inhibit action= the general must feed his troops daily regardless. A continuing a!areness of the responsibility that comes !ith po!er is often the best means of preventing its dissipation for responsible attitudes lead to good fortune steadfast leadership and smart decisions.

Artists note on painting, 3x essive Press$re -- lake above, wind below: +e a$se this hexagram deals with being overwhelmed, # made the lake above rise over the entire %oregro$nd, almost like a ts$nami! The lake is not ,$st above the wind! The wind has, in %a t, li%ted the lake itsel% in a great overbearing wave that ,$st might eng$l% $s! That is why there are several s$ns in the sky here as well2 they are another symbol o% overwhelming, or ,$st too m$ h!

/=* E'cessive $ressure

*omething is about to give !ay. *ome pressure is causing an imbalance and needs correcting. But if the dam is about to burst moving out of the !ay is the first key to success. 8hen a person in a sagging mine shaft feels the earth begin to tremble it is a time for 5uick instinctive action and nimble foot!ork. At a time like this only e3traordinary measures can bring success. 8hen the roof is collapsing run first choose your destination later. :3traordinary times bring out the best and !orst in people. Natural disasters bring !ith them stories of great heroism but also looting and rioting. 8hen such a great !eight is on the !orld po!erful moments present opportunities to make great gains. :verything is in a state of flu3. One can either move in the direction of positive change and improvement or to!ard stagnation. 2o achieve the former one must go gently to the heart of the issue to the cause. 2hen a smooth transition is assured. 2his may be the moment you have been !aiting for. Although the current challenge may seem to be more than you can handle remember that a flood reaches its high+!ater mark for only a fe! brief moments and then begins to subside. Action must be taken no! to ensure opportunities for success later on. 9ou !ill never discover the true e3tent of your o!n abilities unless you at least once in your life dive into a crisis !ith complete abandon dedicating every ounce of your energy every fiber of your being to the cause at hand. "are to !in. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 8hen embarking on an ambitious undertaking in turbulent times the !ise take great care in the beginning. Proper planning and the laying of a good foundation are too often neglected in the e3citement of the moment= such an oversight if it cannot be avoided !ill undoubtedly cause problems later. Attending to careful preparation no! !ill leave you in a better position. 7ine 2> Hnusual partnerships are favored at this time. 2he image is one of an old tree putting forth ne! shoots or an old man !ho marries a young !oman. "espite the unusualness of the situation all goes !ell. 2his is a time of rene!ed vitality and re<uvenation a time of advancement.

7ine 3> Plunging !illfully ahead during risky times against the advice of your friends and intimates invites trouble and !ill make things far !orse. Action is not advised and neither is obstinacy. 7ine !> #riendly relations !ith all types of people can become critical and bring good fortune in times of crisis. But if you use the support of those of lo!er rank and status you must keep their interests at heart as !ell as your o!n. Other!ise misfortune a!aits. 7ine $> 2he person !ho aspires only to relationships !ith those of higher status greater !ealth more po!er and so forth creates an unstable situation in his or her life. 2he tree that sinks its roots deepest into the earth is able to stretch its limbs highest into the sky. 7ine % <at the top=> Brave determination often leads one into deep !ater. 2hough it is careless to forge ahead regardless of the risk sticking to ones principles can become more important than mere survival. 2here is no shame in this as long as you remain a!are that plunging ahead on your o!n is risky and perhaps 5uite dangerous. Nevertheless nobody can blame such courage.

Artists note on painting, *angero$s *epths -- water above, water below: 8y intention here was to ill$strate water %ollowing the path o% least resistan e! The water above %alls down as rain, olle ts in pools and streams, and then over%lows the banks! The %eeling is a kind o% s$rrender to the inevitable!

/>* Dangerous De,ths

:3posure to danger brings good fortune to those !ho move beyond it. ;ike boaters passing through !hite+!ater rapids those faced !ith serious challenges must remain alert. 2hey must take all available precautions and above all must keep going for!ard so as to remove themselves from harms !ay. Once the danger has passed good fortune a!aits. 2he positive side of danger is that it offers an e3cellent chance to cleanse the senses and strengthen the spirit. *urviving danger brings !ith it tremendous reinvigoration and sharpens the eye and mind for future challenges. )t is reckless to court danger but critical to inner development not to shrink from it either. 2hose !ho respond to danger most effectively are those !ho are able to establish an inner bubble of calm in the midst of the action. A calm center keeps one rooted in the moment alert and focused. 4ourage at such times springs from focused attention from a !illingness to penetrate the moment of danger to its very core so as to shape it and transform it. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 7arm eventually comes to those !ho let themselves become accustomed to taking unnecessary risks. ;ike a man !ho a!akens suddenly to find he is balancing on a tightrope it is obvious to all but the man himself ho! he got there. 4aught in such a predicament there is little to do but avoid further recklessness and regain your balance as best you can. 7ine 2> 4almly take stock of your situation and be realistic. 8hen one is in trouble it is un!ise to think immediately of escape unless the causes of the current dilemma are clear. *it still and learn !hat you can for this is !hat the time allo!s. 7ine 3> ;ike a rock climber stuck on a narro! ledge high on a cliff any move for!ard or back!ard leads to trouble. #orget escape ++ its impossible for the time being. 2he only thing to do is !ait for help or a !ay out. 2o move prematurely !ill only complicate the efforts of forces that are trying to help you. 7ine !> Cake cooperation the priority no!. 8hen danger is at hand there is no need to stand on ceremony. Outer forms of polite society fall a!ay 5uickly and blamelessly !hen mutual aid in the face of danger becomes the priority. *implicity !ins the day. 7ine $> :3cessive ambition takes one to the brink of danger. 8hen the !ater rises 5uickly in a narro! canyon think only of escape. 2o discover an escape route follo! the path of least resistance. No blame. 7ine % <at the top=> One is like a prisoner bound and shackled. 2his is a very risky position to be in. )f you behave properly and remain faithful you !ill survive no matter ho! tough things become. )ts good to remember that you are only the victim of your o!n mistakes. 9ou have lost the !ay and are trapped in a thicket of troubles ++ seemingly !ithout hope of escape. "ont give up all hope ho!ever. After a !hile you !ill find the !ay again.

Artists note on painting, Clinging 9ike 'ire -- %ire above, %ire below: 'ire below and above is pretty sel%-evident here! There is a re%eren e to the %a t that the %ire lings to its %$el -- a ne essary ons$mmation %or the %ires very existen e! The %$el here is below in the %orm o% dark trees, whi h have b$rst into %lame!

1?* C5inging ike !ire

#lames cling to their source of fuel in order to keep the fire burning. ;ike!ise in the human !orld everything that radiates light or love is dependent upon something else. 2hrough these dependencies !e discover that everything is related each thing to the other. A!areness of your o!n dependency on others is the key that unlocks the door to your true place in the !orld. No one is an island. #ire is also a symbol of liberation ++ crackling little molecules flying a!ay from home. Parado3ically by clinging to !hat is right and proper !e gain inner freedom. >iven perseverance on your part this reading indicates success. )n spite of challenges cling to !hat is luminous in yourself in others and in life itself never forsaking your belief in !hat is right. 8hen events seem foreboding or people seem oppressive remember the good that has been and is yet to be. 7olding to this idea is to cling to the po!er of the light the force that enables inner darkness to be illuminated. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 8hen a!akening to a ne! day focused concentration is necessary so that the central task at hand is not obscured by fren6ied activity. )t is at the beginning that one needs composure most for as seeds are planted so shall they gro!. "o not begin a ne! pro<ect !ithout careful consideration. 7ine 2> 2he sun has reached its highest spot in the heavens. *upreme good fortune is here. 8hen the central fires of life are at their peak light shines evenly on the entire !orld. )t furthers one to remain active at such a time and to persevere in steady moderate action. 7ine 3> At the end of the day the setting sun calls to mind the transitory nature of all e3istence. 2he great souls understand that death comes in its allotted time and that until that moment life is for living. :n<oy simple pleasures !hile they last. )n this !ay each person holds his fate in his o!n hands. 7ine !> 4larity of mind is most valuable !hen it illuminates events slo!ly and evenly. )t is possible to be too clever. )ntelligence must be tied to sincerity and genuine feeling= other!ise it may burn itself out like a fire in dry stra!. 2hose in possession of brilliance must learn to temper their insights so as not to arouse enmity in others. 2hose !ho are restless and impatient !ith others may rise to prominence 5uickly but are likely to descend <ust as rapidly. 7ine $> 4larity of vision can enable one to penetrate the veil of lifes illusions. 2his can bring good fortune if such a vision is also accompanied by the appropriate change of heart even if it has been a long time coming. Once the vanity of all human endeavors has been e3posed t!o outcomes are likely. :ither you !ill continue to strive for lifes re!ards as if they !ere real ++ or you !ill find yourself falling into the depths of a!ful despair. But after despair then !hatA #irst there is a mountain then there is no mountain then there is. No blame.

7ine % <at the top=> "iscipline that is too severe like punishment that is too cruel fails to achieve its true purpose. *eek the underlying cause of difficulties and take strong action to cut off negativity at its roots. But be merciful and reasonable about small imperfections. "oes the fact that the sun has spots mean that it should be removed from the skyA

Artists note on painting, 8$t$al Attra tion -- lake above, mo$ntain below: This hexagram depi ts a sit$ation that implies sed$ tion or pers$asion! The lands ape here is as sed$ tive as # o$ld make it, in l$ding the lake resting on the mo$ntain, trying to set the s ene %or the $ltimate 1at$rday night date!

1-* Mutua5 Attraction

2he attraction of opposites is a po!erful and fundamental force. 2he image of this reading is that of the attraction bet!een a young man and a young !oman in the courtship stage. )n response to the magnetic attraction bet!een them the masculine principle Fthe creative outgoingG sei6es the initiative and then submits to the feminine Fthe receptive nourishingG. 8hen the assertive is able to defer to the receptive and !hen the receptive accepts responsibility and e3ercises its 5uiet leadership an electric and profitable union is the result. 2his brings good fortune for all success depends upon the effects of mutual attraction. 4onsistency is important in matters of mutual attraction for this is !hat separates courtship from seduction. )f you are by nature an instigator it is good to take the initiative. But you must remain sensitive and highly principled and avoid the temptation to be manipulative. ;et the po!er of mutual attraction pull you along. )f you are the receptive one keep your mind innocent and free of pride so that you may remain open to good advice or helpful assistance. 8hen your influence arises from innocence a po!erful magnetic force is at !ork for you. Remaining open to the forces of attraction brings good fortune. 4losing yourself to them heralds the death of the soul. ;earn to yield to the natural tugs and pulls of the heart. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> )n the safety of his bed a man !iggles his toes. "oes this mean he is about to undertake a long <ourneyA No one kno!s. 2he situation is of little importance to the !orld at large. 7ine 2> )f a !oman !inks or a man smiles is this grounds for marriageA 7ardly. Avoid premature infatuation or hasty action. 8aiting patiently for more information and a clearer reason for acting !ill prevent early misfortune. 7ine 3> Be!are of knee+<erk emotional reactions. 8hen the legs are ruled solely by the heart there is a tendency to rush in all directions. Hse your brain too and plan your moves carefully so that your energy is not dissipated and you are not harmed by an impulse to act. *uch balance provides a foundation for better decisions and true freedom. 7ine !> 8hen attraction touches the heart and the spirit moves you it is of no use to attempt to stand still. ;et nothing stand in your !ay. Avoid conscious plotting and manipulation for this !ill choke off the source of true feeling leaving you stressed and tired. #ollo! your heart and it becomes more likely that the one on !hom you focus your thoughts and feelings !ill follo! you in this.

7ine $> 9our !ill remains firm and !ay!ard influences do not lead to confusion. 2his indicates the resolve of someone !hose beliefs are strongly held. 2here is no cause for remorse in this. 7o!ever your dogged ambition to make progress could become so preoccupying that you no longer listen to positive suggestions or assistance. "o not allo! impatience or fear to cause you to lose your ability to accept help or listen to good advice. 7ine % <at the top=> 2alk is cheap. Cere tongue !agging is a !aste of everybodys time and does not increase the prospects for success. )ts <ust plain foolish to try to influence people by meaningless or flattering phrases. No amount of talk !ill ever alter the fundamental physics of mutual attraction= !ithout a spark no amount of !ind !ill cause a fire to burn.

Artists note on painting, 3nd$ran e -- th$nder above, wind below: This painting was to ill$strate the end$ran e o% some things regardless o% stress, weather or time! The thing that end$red in this lands ape is a stone str$ t$re b$%%eted by wind and storms! Time is a %a tor, whi h is indi ated by the moons above!

1/* En2urance
:ndurance is fostered !hen inner constancy is coupled !ith e3ternal fle3ibility. ;ong+ distance runners must adapt readily to changing conditions !hile maintaining an inner determination and strength of purpose. 2!o trees gro!ing near each other adapt to enhance each others survival. A strong image of durability is a stable marriage of intimate partners striking a dynamic balance bet!een involvement in the outside !orld and nourishment in the home. 2rue endurance is not based on rigidity for endurance implies movement not immobili6ation. Only by adapting to change can !e stay in the race but only by deepening our sense of purpose can !e develop the fortitude to !in it. 4ontinuity is achieved through movement not by keeping still. 2hat !hich has ceased to gro! is close to death. *tay active but allo! yourself time to stay in touch !ith your innermost thoughts and feelings. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 2rying to establish an enduring relationship too hastily !ill repeatedly bring misfortune. 7ave patience and do not e3pect immediate success. 8ork step by step. 2hat !hich is to endure must be developed gradually and !ith great care. By !anting too much too 5uickly you may end up !ith nothing. 7ine 2> *uccess in lengthy undertakings comes to those !ho kno! ho! to manage their resources. )f you are attempting something that appears to be beyond your capabilities perhaps time is your best ally. #ocus on seeing things through= control your energy. Avoid serious risk+taking. )n this !ay there is no cause for remorse. 7ine 3> Coody inconsistency invariably brings misfortune. )nconsistency of purpose is usually caused by e3cessive concern for the affairs of the !orld. 4ultivate the simple pleasures of life in the home and even your !ork may improve. And develop consistency of character to keep humiliation at bay. 7ine !> Pure motives alone do not bring success. *kill is also re5uired but even that is not all. 2he hunter !ho searches for game in deserted areas might !ait forever !ithout firing a shot. Persistent searching is not enough. Caster the essential skills of your enterprise and your efforts !ill not be in vain. 8hat is not searched for in the right !ay !ill not be found. 7ine $> Only the true nature of the times can determine !hether you should be supportive or assertive. 8hat role do circumstances need from you right no! ++ to be an active leader or a follo!erA 2here are no absolute ans!ers no permanent solutions on the path to good fortune. 2o endure to the end you must be adaptable and continually read<ust yourself like a sailor tacking. ;et yourself be guided by the !inds of your higher calling. 7ine % <at the top=> Restlessness defeats endurance. *currying about in circles <ust makes one di66y. *eek to regain inner composure so that you can tune your body and mind like a fine violin. Only !hen the inner fren6y stops can s!eet music echo through the halls of time. Perseverance furthers.

Artists note on painting, &etreat -- sky above, mo$ntain below: This ill$stration is a %airly %ormal and styli"ed lands ape! &etreat is simply indi ated by the three re eding and ontained s5$ares in the middle o% the pi t$re and by the s$bd$ed olor thro$gho$t!

11* )etreat
All !orthy goals meet resistance of some kind. 8hen negative forces predominate a !ell+ timed retreat is necessary in order to keep your energy high and persevere on the path to the heights. 2ibetans kno! this. *trategic retreat is not to be confused !ith escape or surrender. *uccessful retreat can demand 5uick and nimble movement ++ take up a ne! position before you are damaged severely by a current situation. 9ou are not admitting defeat by such action but increasing your options and preserving your resources. *ometimes it is necessary to slo! do!n let go or move back temporarily in order to develop countermoves for the future or to dra! an opponent closer. 2iming is critical as is positioning after realignment. 4onsiderations of personal security are critical. Retreat in this !ay is actually a sign of strength. Periods of !ithdra!al or retreat call for cool headedness. )t is necessary to keep your !its about you. Attend to small details !hile allo!ing yourself time to contemplate the !hole picture. Be creative= not all progress follo!s a straight line. *elf+confidence is also essential= small setbacks can easily become defeats if !e allo! ourselves to become mired in self+doubt or self+ pity. )n this !ay success can be achieved. 8aves of progress are by their nature short lived. ;earn to attune yourself to the up+and+ do!n cycles of life. *ometimes if you !ant something you must allo! it to come to you. "ont fool yourself into thinking that you can ?fi3@ any situation !henever you feel like it. *ome things are bigger than you are. 7old your pride in check and you !ill be better prepared to find creative openings. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> )n retreat positioning is everything. Avoid being too visible too near the source of opposition. )f you find yourself positioned in an opponents sights the best tactic often is to keep still lay lo! and hope that the moment passes. Be e3tremely careful= any movement no! !ill only be to the oppositions advantage. 7ine 2> 2his change refers to the situation !hen someone of integrity is under direct attack and is being pursued strongly by an opposing force. )n a treacherous situation movement in the face of critical danger is essential.

Retreating !hen under attack rather than engaging in direct confrontation also has the advantage of gaining sympathy for your cause from others. 7ine 3> 2o be blocked during retreat brings misfortune. )f it has become necessary to retreat from a bad or complicated situation you have to move. But sometimes the process of retreat is impeded by hangers+on or incompetents impede the process of retreat. 2hough these are not people you !ould normally !ant on your team in a time of retreat it may be necessary to deal !ith them. 2his strategy !ill be successful only if you keep in mind that these people are not truly 5ualified and must not be allo!ed to play a prominent role after retreat has run its course. 7ine !> By gracefully !ithdra!ing from conflict you may be able to protect yourself from humiliation and the enduring enmity of others. #urthermore you deprive the opposition of an enemy to confront !hich in itself can be a successful strategic move. 2o gracefully retreat in a heated atmosphere is not easy= ho!ever it has the advantage of preventing the compromise of integrity and a loss of grace. 2his can only be achieved by the e3ercise of superior character. )n this case it is only inferior characters that suffer losing the guidance of the superior. *o rise to the occasion. Proper handling of a setback is an opportunity for greater progress in the long run. 7ine $> )f precisely the right moment is selected for retreat the !ithdra!al can be affected 5uickly and smoothly and !ith all the proper amenities observed. 2he key is resolute action ++ and taking advantage of the element of surprise. Once your mind is made up moveE 7ine % <at the top=> 8hen all signs point to retreat or resignation the proper course of action must be follo!ed !ithout regret. *ometimes great issues resolve themselves= in such cases it doesnt help you to remain attached to futile goals and ambitions. 2he most successful approach is a cheerful acceptance of fate and a !illingness to proceed along the open road ++ even if it leads you into unfamiliar realms. )f you can leave them smiling this is a great success.

Artists note on painting, 4reat :igor -- th$nder above, sky below: Again this ill$stration is pretty styli"ed showing th$nder and sky symboli ally! 'or the sky below, # $sed deep bl$es and stars and tried to a hieve a radiant 5$ality, while above, th$nder is olle ting omino$sly!

16* +reat %igor

4ongratulationsE 2here is strength and vigor in this situation ++ like a ram that has knocked do!n a fence to free himself from captivity. 2his points to a time !hen a strong force comes into its o!n and achieves po!er. 8hen a leader finally comes into po!er his or her personal strength usually has peaked. >reat strength has been re5uired in climbing to the mountaintop but once at the summit the support of others is needed to maintain position. A shift in attitude becomes necessary. Persevere in !hat is right and <ust. Ra! strength must be tempered by !isdom= to maintain po!er the strong leader must learn to give it a!ay to share it !ith others. Only then !ill his position be secure for he !ill not only be the possessor of po!er but a source of it as !ell. )f you find yourself in a po!erful position it is especially important to act responsibly and react !ith care. Po!er must not be allo!ed to degenerate into ra! force that rides roughshod over everything in its path. A strong sense of responsibility to the collective good is the key to the successful e3ercise of po!er. By follo!ing !hat !e intuitively kno! to be for the greater good !e avoid reckless abuses of po!er !hich in the end undermine the source of our strength. Arrogance contains the seeds of its o!n undoing. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> *imply possessing great personal vigor does not assure success. )f you start your movement from a lo!ly or !eak position attempting to advance prematurely through forceful efforts !ill only bring misfortune. :ven for those of great strength and ability progress is achieved step by step. 7ine 2> 2he gates of good fortune are s!inging open= the time has come to plunge ahead. )n times of great opportunity be!are of premature celebrations. Deep your balance. 7ine 3> A ram crashing through a hedge gets his horns tangled up. 7e may be the strongest animal in the flock but a proud haughty ram only brings misfortune upon himself. Avoid empty displays of po!er or force. A !ise leader measures success in terms of finely tuned performance not ra! po!er. Po!er is the fuel but precision is the carburetor. 7ine !> 2he resolute application of a strong force brings success. ;ike the a3le of a large !agon a po!erful persons real strength is often hidden inside and this is as it should be. 2he less of a sho! the greater the po!er. By 5uietly bringing inner strength to the outer !orld resistance dissolves and great achievements become possible.

7ine $> 8hen a strong person finds himself or herself in a loose and easy situation a loss of alertness and a !eakening of po!er can set in. )f e3ternal resistance is absent at !ork rela3 and en<oy the situation but avoid becoming complacent and learn to create challenges for yourself in recreational activities. 7ine % <at the top=> Hse of e3cessive force can generate strong opposition often leading to deadlocks that make it impossible either to advance or retreat. Once you have pushed things too far the only option is to recogni6e the impasse created by an overly aggressive attitude and make the proper ad<ustments.

Artists note on painting, 3asy Progress -- %ire above, earth below: 1ome o% the images, like the pyramids on the hori"on, are meant to s$ggest the ephemeral 5$ality o% progress -- that progress today might be d$st tomorrow! /ther images here, altho$gh abstra t, point to the %orward dire tion o% progress! The bright olors indi ate optimism!

18* Eas& $rogress

2he general situation is one of easy natural progress. 8hat has been !eak is steadily ascending and by gaining a prominent position becomes more po!erful. 2he image is the light of the rising sun !hich at first appears dimly through the mists. But this !eak light later radiates !ith po!erful clarity once the sun has reached a high position in the sky. Progress is made !hen those in subordinate positions make peace !ith those above and in so doing create a natural means for their talents and abilities to become prominent. )t is by recogni6ing and riding !ith the natural course of events ++ by hitching our !agon to the rising sun as it !ere ++ that !e advance our position and earn respect. "ont forget that goodness in human nature is like the dim but beautiful early morning light. >reed hatred and other forms of self+absorption can easily obscure it ++ <ust as the morning light can be s!allo!ed by the fog. Be reminded that progress is achieved most effortlessly !hen right action is taken !ithout concern for immediate re!ard and !hen the path of the !eaker aligns !ith that !hich is strong. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> Progress seems to be th!arted. )f you lack confidence remain calm and accept that your influence may not yet be strong enough to achieve great progress. 2hough advancement is fervently sought by many the hour for you to play a leading role may not have yet come. )f that is the case do not feel do!nhearted or resentful because no one is paying attention to you. Remain calm and dedicated and you !ill avoid serious mistakes that could block your progress altogether. 7ine 2> A lack of progress is often caused by a lack of contact !ith the right people. 2hough this can be disheartening progress !ill cease altogether if you push too hard !ith people !ho have not yet developed strong trust in you. By persevering in your efforts no! important people !ill notice and help you along but only in due time. Avoid becoming too frustrated because of a lack of immediate progress. 7ine 3> Pushing ahead brings good fortuneE 8ith the support of those both above and belo! you progress is inevitable. 7ine !> )n times of great progress it is easy for po!erful people to ac5uire many possessions. 8hen such possessions are ac5uired by devious means sooner or later the facts !ill come to light. Proceeding !ith 5uestionable behavior !ill lead to misfortune. 7ine $> 8hen one is in an important position of service to others !ho !ield even more po!er a gentle and benevolent attitude often seems to further the interests of the !hole. 9ou may berate yourself for not being more aggressive and for not taking greater advantage of your position but opportunities for small gains no! must be passed up for greater good fortune in the long run.

7ine % <at the top=> 8hen strong energetic action is re5uired to achieve progress make certain that your ducks are in a ro! before you begin. Be particularly careful to avoid overly energetic initiatives to those !ith !hom you do not en<oy a close relationship. )f a bridge cant handle the !eight dont use it.

Artists note on painting, *arkening o% the 9ight -- earth above, %ire below: The impli ation here is that the light is grad$ally obs $red like the s$n sinking into the hori"on at s$nset! +e a$se this darkening brings do$bt and %ear with it, the trees in this lands ape appear to have a threatening aspe t -- the sort o% %ear%$l thing one might imagine at twilight!

19* Darkening of the ight

8hen the light goes do!n it may be !ise to become invisible. 2he image is of fresh darkness the period after the sun has gone do!n or the fire has gone out. 2here is still much activity left over from the light of day and movements in the outer !orld are at their most dangerous. :ven the smallest sound the faintest glo! of light can attract un!anted attention. 8hen the darkness of stupidity reigns it is best that your o!n brilliance stay ?hidden under a bushel basket.@ 2hat is your thoughts and efforts should be 5uiet self+contained and protected as much as possible from harmful e3ternal influences. 8hatever you do dont let yourself be s!ept along on the current of conventional !isdom !hen dangerous uncertainties e3ist. 2ry not to become too depressed or an3ious= this period !ill pass. $ust endure it for no! and in!ardly preserve your self+confidence !hile out!ardly remaining cooperative and fle3ible. 2he time to assert yourself !ill come. Avoid looking too far ahead if you have not yet achieved your goals ++ that !ill only bring regret and longing !hich can eat a!ay at your inner resources. Be cautious and reserved. 4ontrol yourself. "o not needlessly a!aken dormant forces of opposition. "uring dark unsettled periods it is best to step gingerly around the sleeping dogs. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 8hen lost in a cave one small candle is better than the light of a thousand dreams. Attempts to soar above obstacles by ignoring them are usually futile. 8hen impediments are real one should not engage in flights of fancy about imagined success. 2o do so can result in a great loss of face !ith others for attempting to solve large problems is actually a sign of !eakness unless there is an ob<ective chance at success. 7ine 2> "oing ones duty during a crisis brings good fortune. 2he image is that of someone !ho is in<ured in a disaster but !orks effortlessly to save others !ho !ere !ounded in the same event. )n times of calamity rescue efforts bring lasting benefit to both the saved and the heroic. *uch an effort surely brings good fortune. 7ine 3> Jictory over dark forces is achieved as if by accident. But dont be too hasty in righting !rongs. *ome !ounds can only heal themselves. 9et if a sudden opportunity arises to cage a raging beast close the gate and lock it. 7ine !> 2here is impending danger in the night, the image is that of a person !ho has gro!n close to a source of negative energy. Once you have perceived a true source of negativity it is of no use to pretend that it does not e3ist. Only by accepting the truth of this instinctual perception can you find shelter before evil is unleashed like a dark storm.

8hen near a source of dark energy perseverance on the !rong road brings misfortune. 7ine $> 8hen confronting a dark force small deceptions may be necessary so long as your innermost convictions are not compromised. :ven though you may be forced to take e3traordinary measures ++ action you !ould never consider in normal circumstances ++ stick to your inner principles and ho!ever much you may deceive those !ith evil intentions be careful not to deceive yourself. 7ine % <at the top=> 2he clima3 of the dark times has arrived and the darkness has begun to consume even itself. 8hen negative energy is finally spent people of intelligence and good spirit naturally re+emerge and gain positions of rightful prominence.

Artists note on painting, 3xtended 'amily -- wind above, %ire below: The %amily is symboli"ed by a %ire, pres$mably ontained by a hearth, within a primitive str$ t$re in this ill$stration! All the %oliage and trees that almost obs $re the dwelling represent the many and varied entanglements having to do with the on ept o% %amily! The wind above arries away the smoke %rom the %amily hearth!

1;* E'ten2e2 !a(i5&

A family that thrives is one !here healthy interdependence is supported. Respect for different roles is essential especially bet!een a !ife and a husband !hose <oint authority is critical= ho!ever strong and harmonious kinship is dependent upon every member of the clan. 2rust shared responsibilities and good communication are essential. :ach member must be encouraged to find his or her position and appropriate contribution. 2he functional family is a team that symboli6es the ideal of human interdependence and has long provided a firm foundation for society. 2he healthy family is an embryo of society and the native soil in !hich ethical values take root and gro!. #ertili6e this soil and the !hole of society benefits. 2he forces that bind a family are the feminine and masculine balanced ++ nurturing and receptivity combined !ith leadership and responsibility. )n other !ords good parenting. 2heir !ords should be consistent have meaning and po!er. *iblings relationships bet!een themselves and the parents carry variations of feminine and masculine energies too. Relations on all kinds of teams are improved through cultivation of the receptiveKresponsible yinKyang balance. ;earn to listen and receive advice and aid from others and be !illing to assume an appropriate role in any group you are a part of or <oin. A good team player is supremely valuable to others. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> :very group must establish strict guidelines in order to succeed. 8hen beginning any activity or pro<ect that re5uires the e3ercise of authority it is vital to e3ercise po!er firmly and evenly. 2his may cause problems at first but it is the only !ay to create a stable situation from !hich positive results can emanate. "issatisfaction soon vanishes and things start to go !ell particularly if kindness remains an element of authority. Remember that training or leading others re5uires that you embody both integrity and consistency. Another aspect of this particular line has to do !ith not spoiling children. *tructure your family sensibly and all !ill be !ell. 8ithin either a family or a team you o!e it to those for !hom you are responsible to respond appropriately to their egos ++ including temper tantrums and other emotional demands ++ !ith inner calm. )f you are lenient !ith a child !ho marks on the furniture one time can you blame the child for doing it againA )f you have spoiled someone by yielding to childish demands you are faced sooner or later !ith having to reform an errant rascal ++ not an easy task. 7ine 2> )t serves you to attend to the needs of your team. Canage your brood like a house!ife. 9our caring perseverance !ill rebound to the benefit of the !hole group. No! is the time to 5uietly confine yourself to duties at hand. )n this !ay everyone prospers.

7ine 3> 4orrective measures should be firm but not e3cessive ++ although it is better to be too firm than too la3. 8hile it is important not to overindulge those in your charge its also important not to come do!n too hard on them !hen things go a!ry. :3cessive severity !ould cause regret. 2he best thing is to set up firm limits !ithin !hich group members are allo!ed total freedom of movement. An un!illingness on the part of those in authority to tolerate bad habits brings good fortune. 7ine !> *uccessful bonding is aided by the moderating influences !ithin the group. Balancing income and e3penditures brings good fortune. 7ine $> 8hen in a position of authority it furthers one to be loving and trust!orthy rather than bold and inconsistent. #or instance !hen parents choose love as the true center of family life the !hole !orld is ready to respond !ith good!ill. 7ine % <at the top=> 9ou are confident and your !ork commands respect. 2his is a time of re!ard and recognition for you. Remember that the leader of a circle of influence ++ a group of friends teammates or family ++ has a responsibility to set a good e3ample. )t is only through developing your o!n character that you can influence others and create order.

Artists note on painting, *iverging #nterests -- %ire above, lake below: 4iven the two elements %or opposition here, %lame above and lake below, # attempt to show opposition as the p$ll o% temperat$re extremes2 in this ase, a %ro"en lake in winter and the %ire above being only warm olor %rom the s$n and not warmth in temperat$re! The %lame and lake have not melded here!

1=* Diverging Interests

An image of estrangement is indicated here. 8hen brothers and sisters marry they gro! apart since their allegiances no! lie !ith their ne! families. 2hough they !ill remain close enough to successfully deal !ith problems and share minor interests they !ill be unable to undertake any great pro<ects together. *imply put !hen people gro! apart ++ even for the most natural of reasons ++ their points of vie! values and interests diverge. "ivergent natures and interests do bring opposition into the !orld of human affairs. And !hen opposition drifts into alienation and enmity there are no good results. But !hen opposition takes the form of healthy competition or !hen it is simply part of the natural order of things and is recogni6ed as such good fortune is possible. :ven !hen diverging interests make a situation seem stagnant or futile remember that there are al!ays creative possibilities inherent in polarities. One is reminded of the interplay of the opposites yin and yang that is fundamental for the creation of life itself. And <ust as the symbol of the 2ao illustrates the yin and the yang have the seed of the other residing !ithin each of them. Nevertheless !hen opposition has its roots in issues of principle hold to your integrity and individuality. Avoid becoming involved !ith vulgar or base people !ho do not share your values. 8ith both people and companies one measure of stature is the 5uality of the competition. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 2rying to rectify estrangements caused by small personal misunderstandings can easily lead to situations similar to that of a man !hose horse escapes his barn. 8hen the man dashes after the horse in a futile effort to capture it the horse merely runs faster and farther a!ay. But if the man simply returns home the matter is settled 5uite easily for the horse !ill likely return to the barn once it becomes hungry or thirsty. ;et small disputes solve themselves= <ust let the other person come back around of his o!n accord. Application of too much po!er in petty disputes can drive you further from your goal and make reconciliation more difficult after!ard. 4aution is <ustified against negative people !ho have forced themselves upon us perhaps through some misunderstanding. )n this case to actively intervene !ill only cause hostility and more problems. 2he better course no! is to endure them for the time being until they eventually move on of their o!n accord. 7ine 2> 2his is a difficult time to get together !ith others !ith !hom you belong yet have misunderstandings. 7o!ever if you do get the chance to meet ?accidentally@ in informal circumstances there !ill be an opportunity for

compromise provided there is an inner affinity bet!een you. 2his can only happen !hen you let go of mistrust and let yourselves be open to each others truth. 7ine 3> 2his is the line of Curphys ;a!, everything that could have gone !rong has. )t may seem at times that all of creation is conspiring against you but !hen opposition to progress is at its peak an opening often emerges. 8hen bad luck strikes the best strategy may be to <oin up !ith someone !hose luck is better. 8ith the right attitude and persistence good fortune asserts itself in the end. 7ine !> )f you find yourself in a group of people !ith !hom you have little in common a seed of inner opposition can gro! into true isolation. )n such circumstances the ideal solution is to find someone !ith !hom you share deep interests and !hom you trust completely. 2hrough the taking of a good friend or lover inner opposition can be overcome. 7ine $> 8hen someone !ith sincere intentions at first appears to oppose you look deeper. )t may be that you have mis<udged this person or that you have been !rong in your o!n attitudes or behavior. )n this !orld sincere people should be met openly, ho! could this be a mistakeA 7ine % <at the top=> :strangement can arise from a failure to clearly perceive the !orld. Overly defensive people often ascribe all sorts of sinister motives to other people even to those !ho !ould be their friends. 2his kind of thinking obviously leads to isolation. All that is necessary to reverse this kind of cycle is to observe the !orld more closely !ithout pre<udice and by being honest about possible errors in your attitude. 2his can lead to an increase in self+esteem !hich may strike at the root of the problem. 2hose !ho think !ell of others tend to think !ell of themselves and vice versa.

Artists note on painting, Temporary /bsta les -- water above, mo$ntain below! The water on the mo$ntain is all too learly obstr$ ted here by many ,agged ro ks! The path o% the water is ir $ito$s, and the ambient weather is over ast and omino$s in tone! # made the obsta les in the waters path look more dangero$s by painting them red! This isnt a pi t$re o% an easy ,o$rney! The birds are probably not singing!

1>* Te(,orar& O@stac5es

7ave temporary obstacles been blocking your !ayA )n the course of trying to reach a goal or fulfill a personal ambition obstructions inevitably present themselves. 2his is not al!ays a bad thing. Obstacles difficulties and even setbacks that are eventually overcome often become assets. 8ithout irritating grains of sand oysters !ould never make pearls. 2he obstacles pointed to here are not permanent yet they are in the !ay. As !hen a large boulder falls in the road the best course of action is usually to go around it rather than to try to move it out of the !ay. 2emporary obstacles must be seen for !hat they are ++ temporary ++ and should not be allo!ed to take on too much significance. A positive aspect of even the most difficult obstacle is that it may cause a person to turn in!ard and gain greater depth of character and self+kno!ledge. 8hile the ignorant bemoan their fate and seek to blame their problems on others the !ise seek the cause of the problem !ithin themselves. 2hrough this type of introspection obstacles become a means for personal gro!th and self+discovery. 8ithout air resistance no plane !ould ever fly. )f you are facing temporary obstacles try not to be overly concerned. Obstacles are a part of achieving every goal and furthering every undertaking. *etbacks and reversals can affect morale but keeping up your self+confidence in the face of obstacles is part of a successful solution to many of lifes problems. Obstacles of short duration are best handled !ith a yielding attitude. >o around a large boulder= dont put your shoulder to it. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 2he !ay ahead is totally blocked= the time is not right for direct action. Retreat reflect on the situation and !ait for the right moment to overcome the current obstacle. 8hen confronted !ith a threatening roadblock it is a mistake to forge ahead blindly. ;ook for an opening a detour around !hat is in your !ay but !ait for the right time to move. 7ine 2> Normally if a large boulder blocks your road you !ould be !ell advised to <ust find another road. 2he one e3ception to this is !hen duty or previous commitments demand that you face the obstacle directly ++ that is you try to

remove the rock. :ven if confronting the obstacle suggests a personal risk duty and moral obligations must be honored for personal integrity is a resource that is hard to replenish. 7ine 3> 8hen one is in a position of responsibility or leadership great caution must be e3ercised !hen confronting an obstacle. A !ider array of needs and conse5uences must be considered. Rash decisions and actions in such situations bring misfortune. Nevertheless a leader must remain firm and decisive once a course of action has been set. Deep your priorities in mind. 2hose !ho rely on you !ill be happy to see you have put them first. 7ine !> 8hen confronting a large rock in the road many hands make light !ork if it must be moved. Cany obstacles cannot be removed single+handedly. "o not venture out to confront such a serious obstacle until the proper support is behind you= in this !ay you !ill find union. 2o move before your support is firm in this case !ould bring misfortune. 7ine $> )n true emergencies one should not !ait to devise a cautious strategy or enlist the support of others before taking action. )n such cases immediate helping action precedes strategy and your resolute spirit !ill spur others into action too. Acting boldly !hen action is called for brings good fortune. )n such circumstances it is better to be L' percent right in your efforts to surmount the obstacle than '&& percent !rong in making the decision to avoid dealing !ith it. 7ine % <at the top=> 8hen a difficult situation degenerates into a real mess only bold forthright action can bring success. 2his line points to the situation of a person facing an obstacle to for!ard progress ++ and facing an obstacle behind as !ell. 2here is no !ay for!ard no going back. 2he situation is so comple3 there appears to be no !ay out. 8hen this happens you must reenter the fray. "o your best not to !orry too much about the results. ;ook for help from above ++ from others in positions of authority and po!er. 8hen you find such support success becomes probable. 7ave faith in your e3perience and be sure you can help save the situation. >ood fortune a!aits.

Artists note on painting, *eliveran e -- th$nder above, water below: The ill$stration here is straight%orward, showing a th$nderstorm2 the rain%all brings deliveran e to a dry, desert lands ape! This is a release %rom b$ilt-$p press$re!

6?* De5iverance
After a thunderstorm or any time of e3treme tension and obstacles a period of ne! clarity and fresh opportunity follo!s. 2he storm has the effect of clearing the air and suddenly reducing atmospheric tension. "eliverance is at hand. )n the !ake of a storm on land deliverance appears in the form of ne! color and life !hich bursts forth in all the fields and flo!ers. )n the !ake of a storm at sea deliverance takes the form of land itself. )n the field of human relations the rain of forgiveness !ashes the human landscape clean after a period of enmity and error. >reat clarity of purpose and rene!ed vigor can follo! the healing of old !ounds. But care must be taken not to reopen these old !ounds by moving too 5uickly. )n the same !ay it is important to return to normalcy first before moving ahead !ith ne! plans after periods of stress. #ollo!ing the resolution of a difficult situation your first priority should be to return to normal conditions as 5uickly as possible. Breathe a sigh of relief but dont rela3 completely. )t !ould be a mistake to rea!aken the sleeping dogs of the immediate past before the ne! situation has crystalli6ed. ;ook ahead. Attend to any residual matters that need resolution and do so as 5uickly as possible. Cake a clean s!eep of the past and move deliberately. #orgive forget move on and the future !ill bring good fortune. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> #e! !ords are needed ++ the recent obstacles have clearly been overcome. No! there is peace= so <ust recuperate and rela3. )t is a good time to be still. 7ine 2> *uccess stems from your integrity in contrast to the cunning and deceit of those around you. )t may be time to take a careful look at those you are considering !orking !ith. )n light of ob<ective performance standards do they measure upA Be !ary of !orking !ith those !ho do not truly share your vision or your standards. Hpholding your ethics and standards of performance brings good fortune in the long arc of a professional career vocation or relationship. 7ine 3> )n overcoming hard times a residue of the past often lingers. 8hen making the transition from struggle to success take care not to bring baggage from the past !ith you on this <ourney. On the other hand avoid taking on airs and flaunting ne!found good fortune. 2hose !ho !ear their money on their sleeve soon have little in their pocket. 7ine !> )n periods of stagnation relationships are often formed on the basis of convenience. *ince there is little challenge during such a time not much is demanded of friends and associates. But !hen important action is re5uired

only the able and trust!orthy can be counted on to perform competently. #ree yourself of the entanglements of random relationships of lo! value= good fortune comes from associating !ith men and !omen of talent and integrity. )n times of great opportunity or crisis it is better to have a !eak person as an enemy than as an ally. 7ine $> ;etting go of bad influences re5uires inner resolve and strength of character. 8eak people !ho have attached themselves to a stronger person are not easily shaken off. 2he only !ay to free yourself from negative associations is to free yourself from them in!ardly first= sooner or later these un!anted others !ill get the message and fall a!ay of their o!n accord. 2olerating unhealthy relationships and associations brings misfortune. 7ine % <at the top=> 8hen your main obstacle is a cunning adversary forceful removal of that person from the scene may be the only option. 8hen such drastic measures are called for 5uick precise action is necessary. As the element of surprise may be critical to success discuss your plans only !ith those !ho have an absolute need to kno!. 2he superior man has everything he needs by !ay of means in !hich to accomplish this. 2his line can also be interpreted to apply to a bad habit or situation or anything calling for immediate removal in order to assure success.

Artists note on painting, *e rease -- mo$ntain above, lake below: #n this image the lake below is re eding %rom the mo$ntain in little waves, whi h is meant to be a symbol o% *e rease -- a grad$al re ession in a nat$ral setting!

6-* Decrease
)ncrease and decrease are part of the natural cycle of life. As another good book puts it ?2o every thing there is a season and a time for every purpose under heaven.@ ;ike a reservoir that is being used to irrigate the fields learning to accept a temporary decrease in position feelings or material possessions is part of preparing for increase in the future. 8e may live in materialistic times but there is no disgrace in material decrease particularly if it represents an investment in future gain ++ even if that gain be in the form of learning or the development of personal character. ;ike!ise the inner strength that comes from bearing loss can be balanced by a corresponding increase in inner strength and insight. 8hen letting go of material desires leads to a greater simplicity in daily life good fortune often comes calling. )n nature the lake evaporates to form the clouds that drop the rain !hich nurtures the surrounding forest. As the forest gro!s thick more rain is captured for the lake. *imilarly an ?evaporation@ or decrease in one area of your life inevitably gives rise to an eventual increase in another. A loss of responsibility at !ork can mean more free time= more free time may generate more career options. A decrease in material possessions can free the spirit and fill the soul. Be mindful of the lesson of young lovers, even !ith a minimum of possessions feelings of the heart can bring an unsurpassed richness to life. 2he smallest of actions if sincere have value. *o remain confident for a time of decrease may actually bode good fortune ++ especially if you remain open to that possibility. ;et go of frustration resistance and regret over !hatever may be decreasing at this time. Accept the cycle. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> )f you !ant to be of service to others !ho have less than yourself no blame. But you must be careful not to assume too much responsibility for others lest you deprive them of their dignity and a chance to advance through their o!n effort. At the very least learn to be sensitive !hen taking on the burdens of others and avoid self+

righteousness. ;ike!ise !hen the tables are turned a mature person seriously considers ho! much help he or she can accept !ithout putting the helper at risk. *uch deep consideration makes giving and receiving happen !ith ease and !ithout concern for decrease. 7ine 2> )n order to render true service to those !ho are lacking advantages it is essential that you not give up your o!n dignity. A decrease in personal dignity gro!ing out of e3cessive subservience to some higher goal can lead to a decrease in performance and feelings of personal !orth and is essentially counterproductive. 2o truly be of good service to others you must also take care of yourself. 7ine 3> )f three people go off on a <ourney one !ill drop out. )f one goes out alone a second !ill <oin up along the !ay. 2he strongest bonds and deepest relations are bet!een t!o people= agreements among three people no matter ho! lofty the intentions are never as stable. 2!os company three is a committee. ;et go of e3traneous relationships. 7ine !> )f your negative habits and personal faults are keeping others at bay there is only one solution. *traighten+upE 8hen people let go of negative habits ne! opportunities rush in to fill the void. )n such a case great good fortune !ill be yours. 7ine $> Natural good luck is hereE >reat good fortune is your fate right no! and you need fear nothing. :n<oy. )nvest. 7igher energies are supporting you. 7ine % <at the top=> 2here are many different !ays to ac5uire !ealth but the highest and most satisfying !ay is by increasing the common !ealth of all. #or supremely successful and enlightened people their increases cause no decreases for others. 2hey have learned to advance by generating more for all ++ not by maneuvering slickly to see that others get less than they do. 2he prosperity of such people is the good fortune of all of humankind.

Artists note on painting, #n rease -- wind above, th$nder below: 'or the image o% in rease # $sed the early stages o% a th$nderstorm or perhaps a y lone! The wind above is whipping $p the lo$ds into larger and larger masses! The entral th$nder lo$d has ass$med the shape o% a orn$ opia, also a symbol o% #n rease!

6/* Increase
*ubstantial progress and increasing prosperity is e3hilarating as long as you go !ith the flo! !hile it lasts and keep the interests of others in mind. ;ike !hite !ater on a river periods of increase are often of short duration= it furthers one therefore to shoot the rapids no! !hile the opportunity is there. ;eadership in times of opportunity involves commitment to the needs of ones cohorts or dependents. Only by reali6ing that to lead is to serve can a leader fortify his or her position to bring about a lasting increase in prosperity. )n a time of general increase those !ho contribute most directly to the common good !ill achieve the greatest re!ards. 8hen opportunities for increase arise supreme good fortune comes to those !ho act s!iftly and boldly !hile avoiding the trap of letting their actions are merely self+serving. )f you aspire to a position of prominence the most enduring strategy is to !ork to raise the tide of your entire community company or relationship rather than to try to s!im upstream on your o!n. 8hen the times favor prosperity and !hen leadership is in the hands of the broad+minded supreme good fortune results. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 8hen you are the recipient of !hat seems to be blind luck reali6e that luck has found you because you left room in your life for it to enter. ;uck is attracted to selflessness. 8hen luck does arrive in the form of ne! !ealth po!er or energy it can best be preserved and strengthened by sharing this bounty !ith others ++ particularly by donating some of your time to !orth!hile and selfless pursuits. A self+absorbed individual !hose entire purpose is the ac5uisition of !ealth or po!er soon becomes a prisoner of his o!n desires. 7ine 2> *udden good fortune is often as disruptive as the reverse. 2he surest means of staying on course !hen good fortune falls into your life is to cultivate a love of the good ++ to operate from a sincere !ish to bring your o!n integrity and loyalty into the outer !orld. 8hen you remain true to your self good fortune becomes a lasting condition and small obstacles along the !ay are easily overcome. )f you have any instinctive desires to help others at such a time heed them. "ont be afraid to follo! your heart !henever it has a desire to do good. 7ine 3> )ronically even miscalculation or seemingly unfortunate events can lead to good fortune in a time of general increase. 2his line is reminiscent of a baseball player on a hot streak !ho is fooled by an inside pitch= he accidentally bloops a hit to the outfield !hile trying to get out of the !ay. *ometimes its better to be lucky than skillful. 8hen you are on a roll it behooves you to step up to the plate.

7ine !> Be careful to maintain a high level of trust!orthiness. Perhaps you are called upon to act as a mediator. 8hatever the circumstance its important that you maintain fairness and a sense of balance. )f you make the benefit of all concerned your highest priority your advice !ill be follo!ed and you !ill be respected. 8hatever you do do not take advantage of your position !hen fortune smiles upon you. 7ine $> A kind heart does not make demands or ask for recognition. >enuine kindness and consideration come naturally and are spontaneous. *upreme good fortuneE 7ine % <at the top=> 2his line refers to someone !ho has isolated himself or herself by abusing po!er or being insensitive to the needs of others particularly those in dependent positions. Becoming greedy or po!er+hungry often causes one to lose touch !ith the times because a broad vision is needed to observe !hat is coming up on the hori6on. 2he easiest !ay to lose good fortune is to take it for granted or abuse the privilege.

Artists note on painting, *etermination -- lake above, sky below: 'or *etermination # $sed the image o% the lake or perhaps del$ge in this ase, ,$st starting to ome thro$gh the lo$ds and sky to the earth! The drops o% blood in the enter indi ate the pain that sometimes a ompanies something breaking thro$gh!

61* Deter(ination
Personal resolution points to a breakthrough but decisive action is necessary. As long as you diligently hold your ground and !ard off negative tendencies or evil influences the good !ill prevail. 2he persistence of evil is a constant in human affairs= <ust !hen you think it has been eradicated up it !ill pop again sprouting through some crack in the pavement of decent society. :vil need not take e3travagant forms such as those e3hibited in Na6i >ermany. >arden+variety lies and deceit are much more common and persistent but should be rooted out <ust as diligently. One must be determined against negativity ++ !hether in ones social or professional life or in ones o!n soul. )n either case definite rules must be follo!ed for the struggle to succeed. 2he first rule, "o not compromise !ith evil. Negative actions must be identified openly for !hat they are and discredited. 2he second, One cannot successfully resist negativity on its o!n terms. Ne! positive alternatives that lead a!ay from the source of the problem are generally more successful and appropriate than trying to counter negativity !ith ra! po!er. 2he third rule, 2he means used to counter negativity must be consistent !ith the end to be achieved. One cannot stop the spreading of lies by spreading more of them. By adding to the good in a situation one automatically diminishes the bad. 2his is the only !ay in !hich to successfully battle negativity. 2he time calls for unrelenting self+a!areness and the necessity to share ones bounty and virtue !ith others. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> Pressing for!ard !hen you are not e5ual to the task invites mistakes and misfortune. >auge your o!n strength carefully before undertaking any ne! initiative and venture only as far as you can go !ith certainty of success. 2o plunge ahead blindly at the beginning is unskillful because this is precisely the time !hen an une3pected setback !ould produce the most disastrous results. Be!are of self+confidence that is not !ell grounded. 7ine 2> "etermination re5uires sensitivity readiness and caution. :3pect the une3pected moving through life !ith the calm alertness of someone driving through a mountain forest at night !atchful for movement around each ne! bend in the road. Be optimistic but take care. A strong character !ill triumph.

7ine 3> 2his particular lines points to someone caught in an ambiguous situation !here e3isting relationships interfere !ith a determined struggle against negative forces. )n such a situation you may have to use your position to turn things around even though others impugn your motives !ith the result that your reputation may become muddied. But if you keep your motivation pure even association !ith disruptive influences !ill leave you free of blame. 7ine !> A restless person !ith an obstinate attitude invariably meets !ith misfortune. #ailure to heed good advice !hen confronting antagonistic forces is bound to lead to failure. 7ine $> Hprooting corruption in high places is a difficult task and can only be accomplished by a steady and determined effort. $ust as !eeds often spring back to life after they have been chopped do!n so corruption tends to reemerge even after initial efforts to be rid of it seem to have !orked. Only a persevering effort can succeed against deeply rooted negative forces. 7ine % <at the top=> 2he image is of someone !ho seems to have overcome adversity and is ready to begin ane!. But be!are ++ the seed of negativity still remains and a la3 attitude is precisely !hat allo!s destructive forces to reassert themselves. 2horoughness is re5uired !hen preparing ne! soil so that the remnant seeds of past problems are not allo!ed to sprout up again. 8hen starting a ne! pro<ect after solving a problem take care to see that destructive tendencies in your personality are overcome or balanced at the beginning.

Artists note on painting, 9iaison -- sky above, wind below: The nat$ral phenomenon # $se %or this image is the y lone, whi h dire tly en o$nters all in its path! 0ere it is shown approa hing over %ields %ar and near! There is no es ape %rom this en o$nter!

66* iaison
2he attraction is strong. But the relationship is not destined to last. Be careful ++ the coming together of disparate forces may not be !hat it seems. An apparently harmless but potentially dangerous element has attracted attention to itself and is pulling on a stronger one. One ancient image is of a bold but immature young girl !ho uses her charms to gain influence !ith a po!erful man. 2he man dallies !ith her thinking that it can do him no harm. 7a famous last thoughtsE 8hen po!er shifts into the hands of those unprepared for it harm comes to all parties. *till you need not fear meetings !ith those !hose positions are !idely different from your o!n so long as you kno! you are free of ulterior motives. Be especially !ary of temptations that arise because of your position or your connection to someone in an important position. >enerally it is best to combat such temptations by nipping them in the bud before they can flo!er. As soon as a dangerous liaison presents itself that is the time to speak up. On the other hand there are times !hen the meeting of the yielding and the strong turn out to have been opportunities for truly positive and constructive relationships. 2he difference bet!een careless connection and a relationship of depth lies in the motives of the heart. 7o! sincere are youA 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> As soon as it becomes clear that an inferior element has crashed the party sho! that distraction to the door. One relatively !eak person can disrupt the lives of many good people= that party+crasher may have many derelict relations. 2he intrusion of inferior forces is like a small unhealthy craving !hich if not checked in time can ultimately become a destructive obsession. 7ine 2> 7ere the inferior force is held at bay through gentle means. 2here !ill be good fortune ++ if you can pull it off. 2he image is that of a viral epidemic !hich is contained through 5uarantine rather than through a massive program of vaccinations and other aggressive measures. 7ine 3> 2here is danger of your being influenced by an inner !eakness but circumstances are temporarily preventing it. As much as you might like to indulge a certain petty desire you must not do so at least not right no!. )ndecision in such a situation can actually be helpful if it leads to insight and proper action in the long run. 7ine !> )t is not smart to turn ones back on the lo!ly people for you may need their support sometime in the future. 8hen people of small influence have good intentions it is !ise to keep them on your side in case their support is ever needed. *eemingly insignificant people have a !ay of becoming significant eventually.

7ine $> *trong personalities can find a !ay of e3erting control over !eaker ones !ithout even seeming to act. One need not bring attention to ones attributes but simply allo! events to take their natural course. 2his is skillful leadership and the greatest sign of true po!er. 7ine % <at the top=> 2hose !ho have been sitting 5uietly on the mountaintop often find the tumult of the city unbearable. 2he mere suggestion of reentering the active arena can be repulsive after times of peaceful !ithdra!al. 9et holding yourself aloof from normal concerns or activities can open you to criticism and reproach. *o !hatA 8hen your !ork is done your time is your o!n= take 5uiet time if you need it. )gnore the e3pectations of others !hen charting your o!n course.

Artists note on painting, 4athering Together -- lake above, earth below: 1everal water%alls gather together in one lake! # $sed the olors o% early morning to indi ate the %eeling o% the beginning o% $nion! #n this ill$stration, the gro$ping seems nat$ral, like its the right pla e to be!

68* +athering Together

2he po!er of gathering together is represented by a rally !here each individuals strength is magnified by the po!er of the community as a !hole. 7istory has sho!n that mass movements can bring about stable ordered and durable conditions for the better. 2his reading may be pointing to an auspicious time for large undertakings. But the guiding force of a shared vision is essential to hold the forces of unity together and keep them advancing to!ard a common goal. Another image for this situation is that of a lake filling !ith !ater. $ust as the fullness of the lake can bring good fortune to all in its sphere it can also overflo! leading to calamity. 2hus in a time of gathering together it is essential that precautions against unforeseen danger be considered along !ith efforts to advance along a clearly charted course. Cuch of human misfortune comes from une3pected events for !hich !e are ill prepared= !hen gathered together !ith others !e are both more po!erful and in some !ays more vulnerable. Any time of unity is a time of potential greatness. But that greatness can be both positive and negative. :verything is magnified !hen masses of people unite for a single purpose. 8hen many people unite behind a single goal or strong vision it is !ise to take personal precautions and to protect your o!n reasonable self+interests because these can easily be lost in the cro!d. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 2here is a crying need for strong leadership. A suitable person ++ already present as a potential center of strength and purpose ++ stands in the midst of the cro!d= that person should be approached and asked to take the lead position. 2he group needs to recogni6e its need for help. As soon as such an overture to the right person is made distress !ill disappear. #inding the right leader brings good fortune. 7ine 2> "uring times of popular unity secret forces are often at !ork. 2hese strong magnetic forces are best understood by asking the 5uestion, !hat is it that is actually dra!ing people togetherA Before <oining in it is best that you kno! the ans!er. One need not make grand designs to achieve such a gathering. 2hose involved need only understand each other intuitively. Any heartfelt offer should be enough. 9ielding to magnetic forces of popular attraction once they are kno!n to be benevolent can be necessary and good. )n such situations the usual precautions and formalities associated !ith meeting ne! people and developing ne! relationships can be dispensed !ith. 7ine 3> )f unity !ith a certain group is desirable but you remain an outsider the first step is to align yourself !ith the leader of the group. :ven if this at first feels a!k!ard or humiliating take the initiativeE 4onsider the development of a relationship !ith the leader a strategic necessity and take direct action to achieve it.

7ine !> 8hen one takes on a temporary or subordinate leadership role in service to a greater leader supreme good fortune resultsE 2o play such a role properly is a sign of maturity and balance and bodes !ell for you in the future providing you can play the part properly. 7ine $> 8hen people rally around a person because of their confidence in him or her that is a good thing. 7o!ever if they rally because of the leaders po!er and influence it can be reason for regret. )ndeed fe! situations provide a better opportunity for combining personal advancement !ith contributions to the general !elfare than that moment !hen others look to you for guidance and direction. Be!are of the possibility that others are not so much attracted by your competence as they are by !hat they perceive to be your potential for po!er over others. 2his kind of sycophancy is regrettable so be on the lookout for it. 2he only !ay to really gain the confidence of such people is to intensify your o!n commitment to competence and high performance standards. )n this !ay you !ill be renouncing the role of petty influence in your o!n career ++ and thereby make greater progress in the long run. 7ine % <at the top=> 8hen a persons good intentions to!ard others are rebuffed it is only natural that sadness and regret be the result. :3pressing your true feelings may bring the others to their senses resulting in good fortune for all. 2hen again it may not.

Artists note on painting, P$shing 6pward -- earth above, wind below: #n this hexagram, the wind is the %or e that p$shes a growing plant $pward toward growth and mat$rity! As with plant growth, P$shing 6pward indi ates a grad$al pro ess, whi h, i% not interr$pted, $lminates in the prod$ tion o% a bea$ti%$l bloom! Altho$gh there are obvio$s obsta les here -- stones and ro$gh pat hes -- the per%e t potential o% the bloom is always in sight above!

69* $ushing U,0ar2

Advancement is represented by gro!th in springtime !hen ne! plant life pushes up!ard through the earths crust. 2he emphasis is on up!ard motion from obscurity to influence !ith gro!th fostered by adaptability and the absence of opposition. 4onstant fle3ible gro!th is the key attribute of a plant pushing up!ard. 2his reading suggests a period of promotion and prosperity in your life. A !ise person in harmony !ith fate is sensitive but determined. Cake a sincere effort to apply resolute effort against the forces of inertia bending around any obstacles that may arise and good fortune !ill follo!. By remaining tolerant and fle3ible you !ill be able to retain the kind of conscious innocence that fuels gro!th and advancement. 8illpo!er and self+control are necessary to manage this gro!th properly but an inner enthusiasm for life is !hat nurtures it. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> Advancing !ith confidence brings good fortune. $ust as a tree dra!s its po!er from its roots so even the most humble beginnings can serve as the foundation for great achievement given the right attitude at the start. :ven though ne! movement may induce sadness there is no regret so long as you are !illing to forsake the comfort of the past for the vitality of the future. 7ine 2> 9ou have limited resources but if you are sincere your efforts !ill be appreciated. 2his particular line suggests that changes are developing !hich point to success and advancement gro!ing out of inner strength of character rather than material advantage. 7ine 3> Obstructions that have previously blocked your path may be falling a!ay no!. :ither an easy path has opened up or you have succeeded in finding the line of least resistance. 9ou likely !ill achieve your immediate goals but there is no promise of continued good fortune beyond this immediate success. "ont !orry that !ould only sap you of energy. Be happy !ith your present success and push ahead in a positive direction. 7ine !> 8hen lofty goals are achieved great merit is earned in the !orld of gods and men. )n times of special recognition strive to make your influence a lasting one. 2here is no better fortune than to achieve your goals !hile e3erting a lasting positive influence in the !orld. Remember deception burns out 5uickly but integrity resounds forever. 7ine $> 8hen some level of success is achieved but further goals lie ahead keep your head. )t is essential to proceed on your appointed path one step at a time. 2here is great temptation to skip ahead carelessly to!ard your re!ard at the end of a long <ourney <ust because a minor first re!ard has been obtained. Deep your attention riveted on the processes at !ork and the re!ards !ill take care of themselves supporting even more progress on the path of good fortune. 7ine % <at the top=> 2hose !ho push blindly to!ard greater fame fortune and po!er delude themselves. As a result of recent successes you may feel that you are fated al!ays to advance never to retreat. But such unabashed ambition leads to e3haustion ++ and often embarrassment. 2he shortest distance bet!een !here you are no! and !here you !ant to be is undoubtedly a curvy !inding path so en<oy the scenery.

Artists note on painting, /ppression -- lake above, water below: Altho$gh both trigrams re%er to a %orm o% water, the idea here is that everything is drying $p, and the only thing to be seen is desolation! The sky is gloomy b$t it gives no rain! The land is tired and oppressed in all dire tions!

6;* O,,ression
2he image of oppression con<ures up a dried+up lakebed !ith nettlesome cro!s stalking the shoreline. 7ard times shrivel our spirits and give rise to a multitude of ?cro!s@ in the form of troublesome !orries. 2imes of great loss or personal failure break !eaker people but the strong of heart can bend !ith fate. 2o endure hard times ++ or even gro! and benefit from them ++ it is essential to tap that deepest stratum of personal identity !hich is deeper even than fate and !hich is incorruptible by even the harshest realities. )t is essential in other !ords to tap that !ellspring of human endurance, hope. )n a sense there is no such thing as failure. 2here is only s!eet and sour reality and more is learned from the sour oftentimes than from the s!eet. #or the oppression of failure as hard as it may be to s!allo! opens the blinds to the real !orld and rea!akens the clarity of vision kno!n only to those !ho have risked and tasted disappointment. 8hen in the throes of hard times it is essential to be resolute and strong on the inside !hile remaining 5uietly cheerful on the outside. Avoid too much talking ++ e3cept to your closest friends. 9our !ords !ill have little effect on all others since your influence !ill be at lo! ebb and they !ill drain you of vital energy. *trong silence is the most skillful posture !hen facing the public during adversity= it sho!s that your inner core is strong enough to !ithstand the current troubles and suggests that your recovery !ill be complete. At the same time talking openly to those you trust is e5ually important for in times of calamity talking is part of healing. Deep in mind that failure ++ the final taboo in modern society ++ is but one part of the inevitable cycle of life for those !ho dare to live fully and completely. Never to fail at all is to fail in the biggest !ay ++ by avoiding risk altogether one cannot help but fall far short of !hat might have been.

6oving 7ine Interpretations

7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> No matter ho! over!helming your challenges may seem gloom and melancholy !ill only make them seem !orse. By !orking to overcome your problems in!ardly and committing to move for!ard !ithout despair progress becomes possible. Banish the phantoms of self+pity before moving to slay the dragons of misfortune. 7ine 2> "oes this situation seem familiarA Out!ardly things appear fine= but in!ardly you feel oppressed !eighted and drearyA At such times help often appears suddenly randomly as if miraculously from the gods. Problems may remain after such help arrives but the anchor !hich had been keeping your mind mired in your troubles ++ real or imagined ++ has suddenly been raised. At such moments personal effort may be necessary to smooth out the !rinkles in your life but great ne! energy becomes available to do so. 8hen you find yourself in the dumps hitch a ride to the hills !ith !hatever !ill get you there. And dont look back. 7ine 3> )ndecision in times of adversity only brings added misfortune. 2he image is of a man !ho has gone on a !alk in order to !restle !ith a personal dilemma involving a relationship !ith his mate. #ailing to resolve the problem !ithin his o!n mind he becomes more and more frustrated. 7e comes across a tree !hose position annoys him so in his frustration he kicks at it stubbing his toe. 7e then sits do!n to e3amine his toe only to find he has chosen to sit on thorns and nettles. *creaming !ith anger he races back to his house I only to find that his mate has left him. 8hat good advice can reach an individual !ho has become his o!n !orst enemyA 7ine !> Progress can be made in helping others but due to obstructions it may seem as if you become the one in need of help. 2his may feel some!hat embarrassing but it !ill pass. )n times of misfortune its good to accept help !here you find it so long as your inner dignity is preserved. On the other hand if charitable aid is being asked of you no! might be an opportune time to give. )n the end due to ones strength of character the setbacks are minor compared !ith the ultimate achievement of the desired result. 7ine $> 8hen you find that your best ideas and best intentions are being stifled by spurious red+tape+emitting bureaucrats your only course of action may be to suffer patiently and consider your efforts a sacrifice to the gods of efficiency. 7ine % <at the top=> 2he future suddenly gro!s brighter. 9ou have been oppressed by bonds that can no! be broken and recent troubles are dra!ing to an end. Allo! yourself to go for!ard= kick up your heels even ++ theres no need to be overly cautious any longer. 9our problems may !ell be more illusory than real at this point. As soon as you grasp the reality of your current situation take a positive attitude and become determined. 9ou !ill then master the situation and reap the re!ards.

Artists note on painting, The .ell -- water above, wind below: #n this hexagram The .ell or so$r e is des ribed as a onstant, even tho$gh its s$rro$ndings may hange! # painted this well in an old r$in to indi ate that The .ells setting had hanged, b$t it was still the same pla e and available! The wind below is only implied, as perhaps the %or e that has worn away the stones!

6=* The We55

2hroughout various cultures and political systems of the !orld the !ell has served as a universal symbol for that !hich sustains life and provides a constant ine3haustible source of nourishment for humankind. ;ike the !ell human nature is the same around the !orld. 2he passage of time cannot add to its essential dimensions nor take anything a!ay. *till <ust as a !ell can be deepened to produce clearer !ater so can !e enrich our lives by delving deeply into our essential natures to reach the source of true nourishment. Be!are of shallo! thinking= like a little learning it can be dangerous. 2he image of the !ell suggests that going deeper !ithin produces clarity. Be patient and penetrate both your problems and your o!n nature to the core. *elf+development is key to reaching the deep clear !aters. )f you do not lo!er your bucket to the depths youre likely to come up empty. 8hen greater depth is desired a lessening of speed is often re5uired. 4arelessness in the process of meeting needs can be dangerous. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> "rinking from a muddy !ell leads to great misfortune. 2he mind can easily become confused as a result of being preoccupied !ith trivialities or phantom images. >o to the source= live your life plunge in deeply ++ but dont dive in too far over your head. #oolhardy endeavors are a !aste of time. 7ine 2> 2he !ater in the !ell is clear but it is not being used. 2his illustrates the situation of a person !ho possesses talents that are being neglected. Others may begin to neglect you if you neglect !hat is best in yourself. At a time such as this nothing significant can be accomplished but no specific bad fortune is indicated either. 7ine 3> 2he !ell is clean but is not being used. 2his is a shame for like an abandoned !ell your abilities are not being recogni6ed ++ to your o!n chagrin and to the detriment of others also. )f someone in a high position For perhaps the highest part of yourselfG recogni6es your abilities ++ then great good fortune results. 7ine !> 2he !alls of the !ell are being lined !ith stone so the time is not yet ripe to lo!er the bucket. *imilarly there are times !hen the priority in life is to put the details in order and save profound e3ploration for another time. #or no! it is most important to gain discipline in small things so that you !ill be able to profit from your self+ improvement in the future. 7ine $> 2he !ell is fed from a clear cool spring. A good and honest character is as clean and refreshing as spring !ater. 2his points to profit advancement and success= but the !ater is not dra!n <ust yet so your potential is not yet fulfilled. )ts not enough to have access to a good !ell= for it to be of use you must drink from it ++ you must !alk your path. 9ou can only make kno!ledge yours through real+life e3perience.

7ine % <at the top=> 9ou dra! from the !ell !ithout hindrance because you have gro!n to be as dependable as it is. *upreme good fortune for you possess the 5ualities necessary for success. $ust as !hen a !ell is brimming !ith fresh !ater your openness and generosity benefit everyone as !ell as yourself.

Artists note on painting, &evol$tion -- lake above, %ire below: The setting %or this hexagram is an early morning s ene, be a$se revol$tion o%ten means a dawn, or new beginning! The ro ks at the shore here are soldier-like -- sentinels wat hing the %ire o% revol$tion appear in the lake!

6>* )evo5ution
According to 4hinese symbolism the <u3taposed elements of this he3agram are fire under !ater. #ire evaporates !ater and !ater puts out fire. 4hange often causes conflict= conflict brings about change. 2his he3agram refers to that time in the cycle of human affairs !hen things are stirring up and !hen the hint of dramatic change is in the air. )n order to succeed revolutions must be in alignment !ith certain immutable la!s. 2hey must begin at the right moment gather support from a broad base of people be guided by sincere and capable leaders and ++ most important of all ++ must address a real need. 2he strength of the forces of change !ill al!ays be in proportion to the urgency of the need being championed. 2his is true !hether the revolution is in government in business in education or in ones personal affairs. Revolutionary change points to a time !hen chaos arises from order. )t is important to reali6e that not all order is good not all chaos bad. 4haos in fact is an integral part of the !ay of things ++ as any parent Fand modern scienceG !ill confirm. 7ave the courage to radically change and rene! the !ay you present yourself. )n this !ay you can summon chaos to your cause and you !ill unleash a ne! po!er on your behalf. )f engaging in a negotiation change the rules= if composing a piece of music add the une3pected= if courting a lover dare to be unconventional. 4ombat bet!een forces of dark and light are cyclical= one can become a!are of these cycles and master them by preparing in advance. )n periods of drought even !ild storms are preferable to yet another sunny day. A ne! season a!aits. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> At the outset of a period of great change there is no need to hurry. 9ou can restrain yourself for no! for the timing is not yet ripe. :vents are <ust taking shape ++ you can never kno! precisely !hat form !ill solidify in the end. )n the great revolutions of history the first !ave of leaders is usually killed= it is the second !ave that endures. Premature action right no! !ill lead to misfortune. 7ine 2> 8hen an honest attempt has been made to bring about gradual reform but such efforts have proven futile revolutionary change becomes necessary. But before attempting to institute s!eeping changes take time to imagine in some detail !hat outcome you hope to achieve. Only by kno!ing clearly !hat goal is to be achieved can that goal ever be met.

7ine 3> )nitiating action at the present time might !ell bring negative results. :ven !hen change really seems necessary it is unskillful to proceed !ith haste and ruthlessness !hich could be courting disaster. 2he opposite error lies in e3cessive hesitation and conservatism !hich is also not advisable for not every demand for change in the e3isting order should be heeded. On the other hand repeated and !ell+founded complaints should not fail to get a hearing. :3amine and consider the situation thoroughly. 2iming is especially important. "o not be led astray. 7ine !> Radical change re5uires an appropriate level of authority. 2he emphasis here is on unselfish motives and broad mature vie!s. Be !ary of pettiness and narro! thinking. 2he image is of institutions in !hich certain values need to be changed stressing <ustice as opposed to hypocrisy. >ood luck promotion and success are indicated especially if you are no! in a humble position or living a 5uiet life. 7ine $> #ortune favors the bold and the stout of heart. >o ahead and make the necessary changes= you kno! !hat to do. "ont stand on ceremony dont consult the oracle dont call home for advice, $ust do itE 9ou !ill meet !ith success. #ear not. 7ine % <at the top=> 2he ma<or ob<ective is reached and only the fine+tuning remains. Although you may see limitations in the ne! set of conditions you must not fall into a boring funk by striving for perfection. 2ry to find satisfaction in !hat is no! possible. 2he happiest person is the one !ho passionately desires !hat he or she already possesses.

Artists note on painting, The Ca$ldron -- %ire above, wind below: The lassi -looking a$ldron here has eviden e o% the %ire above! +elow is the %$el that heats The Ca$ldron2 the %lame is %ed by the wind, whi h is implied!

8?* The Cau52ron

2he cauldron symboli6es nourishment and re<uvenation. *ooner or later good comes to those !ho do good= <oy comes to those !ho bring humor to others= opportunity comes to those !ho persist in their dreams. Re<uvenation is a returning to ones natural desires ++ and a recharging of batteries that comes through the fulfillment of such aspirations. 2his reading suggests nourishment and transformation for people of good!ill. >reat good fortune and success are indicated. 7ealthy regular sustenance is important as symboli6ed by the cooking pot !hich provides nourishment to all. 8hen the cycle of humanity reaches its ape3 each persons sustenance comes in the form of his or her deepest needs and desires. Re<uvenation simply means that men and !omen of talent and insight are being properly nourished and valued. 8hen society is functioning properly such people are supported and encouraged to contribute to their best abilities. A fresh approach to old habits is indicated in a period of re<uvenation. ;ook for !ays of putting ne! life into old forms= for only !hen great vitality is present can breakthroughs be achieved. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> )f you are virtuous and talented you !ill succeed ++ even if you are in a humble position at the present time. 4leanse yourself of inferior elements such as pride and e3cessive concerns about money= be open+ minded to other people even !hen their !orst traits are sho!ing ++ they may yet have something to teach you. )f sadness or grief has been a part of your life recently use the depth of emotion inherent in the situation to nourish your soul and clarify your vision. 7ine 2> 9ou are confident and may !ell be able to secure some measure of prosperity in the near future. 9ou may e3perience some envy and mistrust from others in the process but that is their problem. 2his is your moment the time for you to achieve something. 2here is no real danger. ;imit your attention to the challenges ++ and opportunities ++ in front of you right no!. 7ine 3> 9ou are impeded in your progress. Resources are being !asted= perhaps your talents are not being recogni6ed. But if you meet difficulties !ith a good attitude they !ill be overcome. 9ou may be confronted !ith obstacles perhaps even loss but good fortune comes in the end to those !hose inner identities are solid. 7ine !> 4haracter resources or helpers are insufficient to the challenge at hand. :ither one !as not fully trained or prepared for the task or simply did not commit to it !holeheartedly. Ceager talent ++ or resources ++ coupled !ith large plans can spell disaster.

7ine $> Codest people often find many helpers particularly if their humility is coupled !ith true ability. >ood fortune comes to those !ho can combine great talents !ith mild temperament. 4ontinuing !ith a modest attitude is most productive. 7ine % <at the top=> 8isdom is transmitted from a sage to a !orthy disciple. Remain open to !isdom= it is as real as the !ind and its sources <ust about as predictable. >reat good fortune results from this and all goes !ell.

Artists note on painting, 1ho k -- th$nder above, th$nder below: 0ere # wanted to show not only the nat$ral phenomenon o% earth5$ake, lightning and th$nder, b$t also the e%%e ts o% these things on o$r attempts to order o$r environment! The str$ t$res are being sho ked above and below, and will be hanged %orever!

8-* Shock
One hears thunder une3pectedlyE #irst comes fear then a sharpened clearer vision. Recall a close brush !ith danger ++ a falling branch an automobile accident barely avoided an escape from a potentially violent confrontation. *uch incidents first arouse every nerve fiber in your body in a brief !ave of terror but soon once the danger has passed give !ay to a heightened a!areness of the !orld. 2he same process also occurs !ith other types of shock ++ the loss of a <ob the death of a loved one business failure and so on. 2he lasting impact of a ma<or shock can either be stimulating or debilitating depending upon ones inner strength of character. 2he critical factor is the ability to become immune to fear thereby transforming an3iety into a laser+sharp perception of the !orld around you. 8hen overtaken by crisis the !ise search their hearts for inner strengths in order to face the !orld !ith courage. 4ourage often means daring to take the une3pected path ++ to bounce back 5uickly and self+confidently after failure to have faith in the eternal !hen confronted !ith death. 8e tend to think of shock only in the conte3t of unpleasant events. 8e can also be <arred ho!ever by the sudden release of tension that comes !ith une3pected success. 2o keep your bearings in the aftershock of either trauma or victory it is essential that your inner compass be aligned !ith ?true north@ ++ that magnetic force !hich guides you to!ard fulfillment of both your deepest desire and your highest destiny. 8hen receiving this reading for the present or future prepare yourself to take some normally <arring surprise in stride. >ains and losses alike !ill re5uire calm in order for you to ride or overcome such shocks. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 2he movement of this first line indicates a time !hen good fortune follo!s sudden change that at first seemed unfortunate. )f !e remain open to all possibilities in a time of crisis sometimes the results !ill be shockingly positive. 7ine 2> 8hen tumultuous events strip you of !hat is rightfully yours it is of no use to contend !ith the prevailing forces !hile the storm is yet raging. Retire to the mountaintop temporarily, take the high ground. )n the end after the storm has passed this strategy !ill result in a full restoration of all that is rightfully yours !ithout need for contention. 4onfronting uncontrollable forces !hen they are at their peak only brings misfortune and loss.

7ine 3> 2he shock of une3pected change can be almost paraly6ing. At such a time your concentration is easily scattered and your mind can come to resemble the Cilky 8ay. 2his is not the time to stand back and !atch things take their course. #irst of all focus is !hat is needed no!. Begin !ith small details and gradually rebuild normalcy around you. 2he resumption of normal habits and routines can become an armor that keeps e3ternal misfortunes from infecting the soul. )f you allo! a <arring situation to motivate you to restore your focus you !ill be freed of possible ill effects. 7ine !> A nimble mind evades on+rushing fate much as a matador s!ings a!ay from the charging bull. But even a nimble mind can become mired in the muck of <arring circumstances. *ometimes !hen you are stuck in a situation you become a target for the bullhorns of fate. )f only you had a clear problem you could do something about it. #or no! <ust try to keep your !its about you. 7ine $> A series of repetitious shocks is indicated. )t may be possible to avoid danger by remaining calm and staying near the center of the storm instead of dashing to!ard the e3tremities !here added movement increases the risk. 7ine % <at the top=> 8hen startling events are at their peak clarity of vision and perspective are often lost. 2he smart move in such a situation is to !ithdra! temporarily in order to gain time enough to develop a coherent strategy. 2his can only be done if !ithdra!al comes soon enough in the course of events before the outer turmoil has muddied your inner perspective. #riends and associates may not understand the reason for your actions and may talk about you behind your back but no great general ever plotted his strategy !hile mounted on his horse. *ometimes retreating to your private tent takes more strength and courage than charging the front lines ++ and more brains.

Artists note on painting, ;eeping 1till -- mo$ntain above, mo$ntain below: The idea here is that the two mo$ntains rest side by side and neither stress ea h other $nd$ly or motivate ea h other to move! Two i ebergs depi t ;eeping 1till2 all their ontents are held %ro"en and $nmoving! They are pea e%$l and at rest!

8/* Kee,ing Sti55

Regular periods of keeping still are an important aspect of personal development and for!ard motion. 2he most restful person may not be the one !ho sleeps t!elve hours a day but the one able to grab catnaps !hile cruising at L&& miles+per+hour at (L &&& feet. ;earning to act !hen it is time to act and to keep still !hen it is time to keep still is the key to obtaining the peace of mind !hich helps one stay focused !hen clear focus is needed. 4onsider the spine !hich serves as a s!itchboard for all the nerves of the body that mediate movement. 8hen the spine is kept fle3ible and healthy through proper rest and rela3ation active movement can al!ays be undertaken !ithout strain. 8hen the spine is held erect in a balanced sitting posture the inner balancing of meditation can take place. 2reat your innate spark of vitality as if it !ere a candle in the !ind ++ protecting it as though it !ere your only light in a dark forest on a moonless night. Avoid e3ternal conditions that threaten to snuff out the flame and be careful not to suffocate it !ith your o!n ambitions and !orries. 2ime out. Rela3 take your shoes off and sit a spell. ;et go of thinking. Ceditate. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> At the beginning of a great undertaking store up your reserves by pausing for rest and reflection at the outset. 2aking a moment to chart your course before hitting the trail brings good fortune. 2his is a time !here fe! mistakes have yet been made and innocence is untainted by ulterior motives. Persevere in your constancy and you !ill maintain a firm footing. 7ine 2> )f you find yourself being led by someone going do!n a misguided path leave them to their fate or you !ill also become lost. 8hen the road leads no!here stopping to sit by the side of the road brings good fortune. 7ine 3> 2rying to induce rest through artificial rigidity is like e3pecting a computer to !rite poetry, an essential contradiction makes such effort futile. 8hen you are bone tired a good sleep !ill be much more re<uvenating than a stringent form of meditation. 7ine !> ;etting go of the egos desires facilitates the deepest kind of rest though sometimes the easiest !ay to let them go is to satisfy them. 2hey are most free !ho are able to move through the !orld !ith sublime indifference to its re!ards. ;etting the heart rest is an integral part of this process and !ill leave you free of mistakes. A higher more profoundly satisfying level of consciousness a!aits those !ho can let go and be still. 7ine $> ;ight+hearted foolish chatter about problems can often make them !orse. )f you lack inner calm your !ords are bound to reflect the presence of fears doubts desires impatience or other restless forces operating !ithin you. 2his can cause harm in any number of subtle !ays. #or e3ample if you constantly babble about your travel difficulties

!hile on vacation you may put others off and thereby miss the re<uvenating good times and ne! companionship you !ere seeking. Plus you may inadvertently say things that allo! others to take advantage of you particularly !hen you find yourself dependent on strangers for essential needs. )f you give your mouth a rest and govern your speech then !hen you do speak the !ords !ill carry a greater po!er and remorse !ill disappear. 7ine % <at the top=> 2his line points to the ability to maintain stillness and composure in the midst of a chaotic !orld !hich is a noble+hearted achievement. 8hen positive+minded acceptance of all of life has been achieved !hat harm can ever follo!A Peace and good fortune a!ait.

Artists note on painting, A 1teady Pa e -- wind above, mo$ntain below: The main metaphor in this hexagram is the experien e o% advan ing ever higher as in limbing a tree! # tried to depi t the as ent as grad$al b$t steep, with a tree at its apex that almost seems to take %light at the very top!

81* A Stea2& $ace

;ike an ancient old+gro!th forest ++ !here the subtle play of light te3ture and shado!s is the product of a process measured in centuries and inches ++ most things of lasting value develop gradually at their o!n pace. 2he ability to learn from e3perience ++ one of humanitys greatest treasures ++ implies constant yet gradual progress. 2he combination of stillness !ithin and determination !ithout are the essence of this condition. >ood things sometimes sprout 5uickly= the truly delightful take much longer like a beautiful tree on a mountainside. 2he principle of gradual development also applies to human relationships. #or love marriage and business partnerships to endure progress must be slo! but steady, slo! enough to allo! for the bonds to knit properly= steady enough to move in the right direction. A firmly rooted tree has a certain dignity. Because its roots penetrate deep beneath the soil it is not easily toppled. *uch steady development is !hat makes long+term progress possible. 9ou cant e3pect to have everything all at once. "evelopment must be allo!ed to take its proper course= events must neither be rushed nor manipulated but allo!ed to unfold in due course. )n this !ay you !ill come to en<oy long+lasting relationships and achieve success in the !orld. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> A lonely young man sets forth on his o!n and his perception of facing an over!helming challenge makes him cautious and careful. :mploy such caution and persevere and you !ill have good fortune. 8hen situations are allo!ed to develop gradually liabilities can evolve into assets. 7ine 2> 9ou reach a point of rest and safety ++ an initial level of success. 2he !ay ahead appears clear and bright. )t is right for you to feel pleased about your personal progress. 2he timing is ideal for e3pansion especially in the area of personal relationships. 7ine 3> 7ave you ever soared too far too high and found yourself in a hostile placeA Perhaps even lost your !ayA *ometimes !e dont let things develop 5uietly but forge ahead rashly to find ourselves suddenly caught up in a struggle. )n such instances the first re5uirement is to slo! do!n ++ or climb do!n ++ very very carefully. 7ine !> 8hen you find yourself in an a!k!ard position apparently through no fault of your o!n find a safe place to land temporarily and regain your balance. 8hen tumbling through the air it furthers one to find a net. Buickly. And then rest there a!hile before getting back on the tightrope. "ont !orry= you !ill find your feet again. 7ine $> 8hen moving rapidly to!ard the heights its common to separate from old friends and past associates ++ even partners. Naturally in such circumstances you may come to feel isolated but periods of isolation and !ithdra!al are unavoidable in the process of self+development a kind of social sleep that makes rea!akening possible. :ven though a

period of !ithdra!al from others can complicate your life for a !hile you must move through such times !ith patience ++ rather than ignore your personal needs for privacy and concentration. Cisunderstandings !ill become resolved over time and reconciliation !ith important others !ill be achieved. 7ine % <at the top=> 8hen gradual development reaches its clima3 supreme good fortune results and a great e3ample is provided for others. Be true to your o!n goals= even though they may appear selfish to others your success in achieving them brings great value to the lives of those around you.

Artists note on painting, Care%$l A%%e tion -- th$nder above, lake below: The th$nder above the lake is painted in a straight%orward way! # indi ated the traditional %emale element o% this hexagram by the %eminine shapes o% the hills and the lakes shore!

86* Carefu5 Affection

Affection is the basis of all lasting relationships but must be channeled properly in order to bring satisfaction and support the self+esteem of both parties. #or e3ample a married persons lover !ould have the conflicted feelings of affection coupled !ith insecurity. Relationships based mainly on personal attraction especially those that are outside the mainstream re5uire special caution attention and tactful reserve. 2o overcome relationship difficulties and achieve longevity remain mindful of the possible e3tremes of such an attraction and the transitory nature of the relationship. *uch is an irony of life ++ that the happiest people are the ones !ho have !hat they !ant and !ho !ant !hat they have. )t is never easier to make disastrous mistakes than !hen you venture outside the bounds of propriety. )f you assert yourself too much or try to make yourself indispensable you !ill incur misfortune. )f you are in doubt as to !hether you should follo! your heart or your head allo! for some time to pass and perhaps the ans!er !ill become clear. )nitiating action right no! could bring misfortune so do not attempt to be too creative or to attract favorable attention. At the same time allo!ing yourself to drift aimlessly is also a mistake. 2he traditional analogy for this he3agram !as the delicate situation of the marrying maiden making the transition from girl to !oman. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 2his is a time of achievement ++ even though you may find yourself in a disadvantageous position !ith limited resources. )f you accept your status and your destiny you may discover ne! secrets close to home and feel most happy in these circumstances. Being in the pro3imity of po!er is something to be appreciated. 2he time has come to play the !ild card. ;uck is riding !ith you. 7ine 2> A time of no advance is indicated here but everything !ill be all right in the end. 2he image is of a disappointed girl !ho maintains her desirability in spite of her loneliness and finds a lover after a time. 7ine 3> :3cessive desire for forbidden or unobtainable fruits does not lo!er the branches of the fruit+bearing tree. *till no blame. 7ine !> Purity of intention supports the effortless manifestation of dreams. Avoid overt manipulation of others !hen seeking their affection or support. 7ere conscientiousness is re!arded !ith the manifestation of ones dreams.

7ine $> 8hen someone of superior 5ualities accepts a humble position !ith graciousness good fortune follo!s for all involved. $ust as an intelligent !oman is far more interested in a mans character than in his money or looks you may find deep satisfaction and value in !hat appear to be limited circumstances. #ulfillment and satisfaction are indicated. 7ine % <at the top=> 8ithin an intimate relationship irreverence and cynicism kill the magic that lies at the heart of a bond. 8hether bonded no! or contemplating it in the future remember that a union of the heart only !orks !hen both parties are as concerned about their mates happiness as they are about their o!n.

Artists note on painting, 4reat Ab$ndan e -- th$nder above, %ire below: This hexagram seemed to all %or another th$nderstorm, with the %lame depi ted in this painting representing lightning! A lot o% rain is oming down and it is ab$ndant, b$t also ab$ndant are all the plants and %lowers the rain has bro$ght %orth!

88* +reat A@un2ance

A time of abundance comes into full flo!er !hen the po!ers of a leader are at their peak. 2he situation is like that of the sun at midday ++ a high noon of clarity insight and progress. *uch peak periods can be brief. 8hether this refers to a national cycle a business boon or a period of personal abundance it is important to bale your hay !hile the sun is shining. "uring a period of abundance it benefits one to sho! benevolence to share the fruit of ones good fortune. 2hink of good deeds no! as a hedge against times of scarcity in the future. 2his reading bodes !ell in the raising of children and in the nurturing of a healthy family or any close+knit group. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 2o usher in an era of abundance a mi3ture of energy and vision is re5uired. Often this combination comes from t!o people uniting in their efforts. 2hey are !ell matched and their coupling is !ell founded. 2his line indicates that the timing is right to seek a partner !ho can help you advance to the top. >reat good fortune a!aits. 7ine 2> )n times of radiant abundance plots and intrigues are like eclipses of the sun. Often the best !ay to handle dark periods is to <ust let them pass to sink of their o!n !eight. 2o try to do battle !ith negative forces no! !ould only cause you to stumble blindly. 7old in!ardly to !hat is true and the sun !ill reemerge soon enough. 7ine 3 9our recent success is eclipsed by a fast+moving element that could snatch the reins from your hands. )n the ensuing confusion even insignificant people are gaining po!er. 2his makes it impossible for you to accomplish much right no!. 2hough you are not to blame a time of loss and difficulty may !ell follo!. 7ine !> 8hen a dark shado! has temporarily passed over a land of prosperity and success an unsettled feeling remains after!ard. )n order to prevent a temporary setback from becoming a permanent condition an effort must be made to find complementary strengths that bolster your position. 2he search for !ise counsel in particular is indicated here. 7ine $> 2hose !ho bring personal modesty to high positions attract those !ho are capable of offering brilliant counsel. Accepting their advice brings great blessings and supreme good fortune. 2he situation is like that of a !ealthy man !ho hires the best investment advisors and then actually listens to themE 2he rich get richer. 7ine % <at the top=> Arrogance in the administration of po!er al!ays tends to bring the opposite of the desired effect. )f you strive for abundance so single+mindedly that you alienate those close to you you !ill find yourself left holding an empty bag in the end. 2oo bad. 7olding po!er is like bringing a large torch into a sea of candles, the more the flame is passed to others the greater the chance that the torch !ill be reignited should its flame die out. Other!ise isolation and misfortune are the result.

Artists note on painting, The .anderer -- %ire above, mo$ntain below: This hexagram sometimes $ses the image o% the %ire traveling on the mo$ntain as a metaphor! # took pains to make the bottom o% the mo$ntain here appear to have a road map on it! The %ire might %ollow the map or it might wander to the top o% the mo$ntain by a random, meandering path! 1ometimes wanderers have plans and sometimes they dont!

89* The Wan2erer

A seasoned traveler kno!s that a special kind of decorum is called for !hen one ventures far from home. 7e or she must develop a yielding nature out!ardly so that the ?local contact @ or host can open doors and prevent unseemly errors. But in!ardly the !anderer kno!s that it is sometimes impossible to discern the true intentions of strangers ++ are they hostile or friendly or merely opportunisticA 2he t!in houses of mystery and discovery rule any <ourney. :ach ne! day is launched on a fresh landscape one that reaches out to grab our full attention. 2hough travel is often a great teacher ++ and a great e5uali6er ++ there is a definite art to living !ith your home on the road. )ncreased caution and discernment become the keys not only to success but also to survival. )f you are entering a ne! environment of any sort attempt to be sincere fle3ible and undemanding rather than obstinate. 9ou must <ettison attitudes and habits that could encumber you or make you overly conspicuous. 2he onset of a great <ourney is not a favorable time to enter into binding agreements or to start ne! enterprises. And remember though being the !anderer offers you a certain freedom because you cannot be <udged by your history= you also have no history to ac5uit you. Deep a keen eye on local customs. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> 8hen you are in a vulnerable position as is any !anderer do not let yourself become too involved !ith trivial matters that are not your concern. Caintain your sense of purpose and dont allo! yourself to become overly distracted. )f forced into tempting circumstances maintain your dignity and reserve= other!ise misfortune !ill occur. A traveler preoccupied !ith petty things invites bad luck. As ever perseverance furthers. 7ine 2> 2!o of the greatest assets of any traveler are modesty and a natural affection for people even those very different from oneself. 2his attitude should be cultivated !henever you find yourself in a ne! environment= great benefit !ill come from it. Also the more ambitious a <ourney the more beneficial it is to share it !ith a trust!orthy companion. 7ine 3> 8hen a traveler in a strange land has no one to trust the situation can 5uickly become dangerous. )f you meddle in affairs and controversies that do not concern you you are taking a great risk. )f you treat cavalierly those !ho are !illing to help you you lose their support. 2hose !ho become arrogant in the company of pygmies are soon cut off at the knees. No place is safe for the ill behaved. 7ine !> 7ere is the predicament of the traveler !ho takes up temporary residence in a strange place, :ven though he has managed to ac5uire a safe haven he must remain alert because he is not yet in full harmony !ith his surroundings. )n his heart he is still unsettled for he has not yet found a permanent home.

7ine $> A skillful traveler sho!s good manners and thus !ins acceptance. A time of success promotion and re!ard is indicated. 2hose !ho learn to thrive in ne! lands !ill prosper any!here. *upreme good fortune results. 7ine % <at the top=> A changing line in the 1th place suggests a bird !hose nest has burned up. 2he !orst mistake a traveler can make is to forget that he is an outsider. 2his induces carelessness and a careless traveler is easily lost. 4arelessness on the road ++ or in any ne! situation ++ inevitably brings misfortune.

Artists note on painting, 4entle Penetration -- wind above, wind below: The meaning here is that wind above and below penetrates everywhere, and everything is a%%e ted! There are also some hints o% a s$pernat$ral or magi al in%l$en e here, whi h is why # in l$ded the arved res ent moon on one o% the standing stones in the enter!

8;* +ent5e $enetration

2he general situation suggests a subtle penetration. Reeds bend softly in the !ind symboli6ing fle3ibility and endurance. 7ere !e see 5uiet rela3ed effectiveness in action. A gentle influence is at !ork but <ust as the !ind is ceaseless in its efforts so too small forces can persist to produce lasting results. >entle penetration bodes !ell for ne! relationships. $ust as a summer bree6e slo!ly penetrates the !oods to cool the forest the ideas of gifted leaders slo!ly reach the minds and sink into the hearts of the people. )n personal relationships a gentle beginning is often linked to a long+ lasting union. 8hen employing a force that is !eak but persistent careful aim is necessary for only !hen a small force continually moves in the same direction can it have much effect. )n human affairs this kind of influence comes more through strength of character than by any direct confrontation or seduction. )ts important to have and stick to clearly defined goals. Caintaining a strong vision and follo!ing a steady course of least resistance often brings good fortune. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> )nborn gentleness often has indecision as a negative side effect. 2his situation points to a case of a gentle spirit drifting into 5uandary becoming filled !ith self+doubt. 8hen the rudder of personal !ill flaps back and forth uncontrollably !ith no clear direction it must be grasped firmly and set back on course. *ome kind of e3ternal discipline may be necessary to accomplish this. 7ine 2> 8hen dark forces seem to be undermining your plans trace the shado!s back to their source and gently e3pose them to the light. Openness and honesty succeed but only if you are first honest !ith yourself. *earch your heart and mind for hidden enemies, self+pity pride or a rigid vie! of !hat ?should@ happen in life. An e3cess of feelings ++ either hard and arrogant or soft and self+indulgent ++ obstructs progress and saps your strength. By gently bringing negative inner feelings to the light of day you can effectively rob them of their po!er over you. "o so and good fortune a!aits you. 7ine 3> :ven a penetrating mind can be driven to e3cess. After having fully researched and pondered a serious decision further deliberation only leads to a subversion of the !ill. )n such instances an overactive mind !ill begin to use fresh doubts as a shield against taking needed action. 8hen analysis becomes overheated the !ill becomes paraly6ed and a !eakness of purpose sets in. >reat misfortune results. 7ine !> 8hen responsibility e3perience and energy are combined !ith modesty the effects can be enduring and success is almost unavoidable. 8hen approaching difficult situations that re5uire sustained effort to achieve the desired goal keep these virtues in mind.

7ine $> A changing line in the fifth place indicates a situation in !hich things are far from perfect and a ne! direction must be taken. 2he beginning has not been good even if it has not been horrendous. *ome careful reform is in order but dont thro! out the baby !ith the bath!ater. After!ard be prepared to continue making changes and ad<ustments until the situation is aligned !ith your purpose. 2his !ill bring you success. 7ine % <at the top=> 8hen the 5uiet penetrating po!er has reached its ape3 both success and difficulty are indicated for a certain loss of strength is inherent in this situation. Once this happens if you penetrate deeply into a situation and discover the presence of strong opposing forces you are practically helpless. )n such a case immediate !ithdra!al is the only course of action.

Artists note on painting, <oy -- lake above, lake below: 'or this hexagram, the idea is that lakes interpenetrate ea h other and m$ltiply their nat$ral <oy! The images are o% water and lakes, b$t more than that is implied with the phalli shape p$shing $p into the lake, hinting at the ,oys o% physi al $nion!

8=* Ao&
A <oy that is shared suggests a group of friends playing or a carefree young girl singing to herself !hile engaged in her !ork. 7appiness is rising !ithin and spreading out into the !orldE $oy comes into the !orld through gentle means but springs from a solid inner base. 2he po!er of pure <oy should not be underestimated. 2he en<oyment of learning and discovery for e3ample has been the source of much progress. Accordingly that !hich brings <oy into the !orld is a source of considerable po!er. )f happiness is supported by personal stability it !ill in time !ear do!n the stiffest barrier and !in over the hardest heart. 2rue <oy is a beacon in the !orld and though it is indeed rare its presence is an indication of great good fortune both no! and in the future. 7o! could it be other!iseA 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> ;iving a life of 5uiet self+contained <oy is the height of good fortune. :at !hen you are hungry sleep !hen you are sleepy and take your pleasures as you !ill ++ !hat could be betterA 7ine 2> 2rue <oy is incompatible !ith any pleasure that cannot also be fully appreciated and relished the morning after. 2ake this lesson to heart. 7ine 3> 2he source of true <oy is from !ithin. )f one is empty of <oy the tendency to search for it outside oneself easily takes the form of indulgence in pleasant but superficial distractions. 2hose !ho do not control their idle desires often do so because of a lack of grounding. Dno!ing your deepest !ishes and acting on them is the better path to <oyful e3uberance and energy. ;ooking for something ?out there@ to fill you up al!ays delivers an unsatisfactory result. 7ine !> 8hen a variety of pleasures abound it furthers one to be decisive. #ailure to choose <oy over mere pleasure is as self+defeating as the failure to act in the face of danger. 4hoosing the higher desire brings fulfillment. Passionate self+indulgence produces suffering. 7ine $> 8hen a period of <oyousness begins to degenerate slo!ly but surely problems arise. 7o!ever sincere you are it is possible to become involved !ith un!orthy circumstances or people. Only by recogni6ing this tendency and guarding against it can you avoid pitfalls and remain free from harm. 7ine % <at the top=> Pleasant circumstances do not al!ays indicate success. 7aving lost touch !ith ones deeper self and true purpose in life it is possible to be s!ept along by vanity and circumstance to be carried a!ay from the sources of true <oy. 8hen this happens it is no longer a 5uestion of good or bad fortune. By losing control of ones choices one has left everything to chance.

Artists note on painting, *ispersing -- wind above, water below: *ispersion here is symboli"ed by the wind blowing away the %oam %rom the waves o% water below! There are also several re%eren es to old pla es o% worship in this hexagram, whi h is why # in l$ded an an estors temple on the land!

8>* Dis,ersing
Nothing survives forever not even rocks not even the most rigid of structures. All obstacles dissolve in time. 2he erosion of that !hich has been solid is not necessarily bad= it can mean that something ne! is being created. Another image is of ice floes hardened in !inter dispersing in the !armth of spring= !hen the ice melts a mighty river emerges. 2his is a time of small changes producing big results over time. Rigidity in the hearts of men tends to breed a separateness that can only be tha!ed by a greater force ++ typically a strong spiritual stirring. 2he tha!ing of cold hearts al!ays improves conditions. 2he first thing to dissolve is any internal rigidity !ithin yourself that separates you from others. 2ry to !ork more closely !ith others concentrating on common activities !hich evidence your integrity and native good!ill. *udden strong action in support of a greater good can lift the spirit and lead to!ard ne! possibilities in many areas. *piritual impulses including a sense of <ustice should be honored and acted upon. 2hey can provide an initial gentle impulse to important and constructive change. Avoid righteous indignation and aggressive force of any kind and disunity !ill be overcome. Nevertheless if you should have any lingering business or other partnerships that are inactive or not !orking you might consider dissolving these. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> )n all great undertakings it is critical that disunity be nipped in the bud. Cisunderstandings and feuds that are allo!ed to fester 5uickly develop into open !ounds that can affect an entire pro<ect. 4onflicts caused by hidden elements must be dissolved immediately to avoid further enmity. Once this is done good fortune a!aits. 7ine 2> )f you sense that trouble is on the hori6on for a group in !hich you are involved establish firm reliable channels of communication both !ithin the group and outside it F!ith those in a position of influenceG. 2rust!orthy information is the greatest asset during a time of rapid dissolution of an enterprise or relationship. Once things are clear all regret !ill fall a!ay along !ith obstructions. 7ine 3> Often in the course of a great !ork one must completely abandon any thought of self and let go of any desire for re!ard. One must look !ithin oneself for !hat may be causing an obstruction. ;osing oneself in the !ork if the !ork is vital removes any regrets.

7ine !> 8hen a groups bond is dissolving only by rising above partisan interests can anything of value be achieved. 2ake the high ground. >reat good fortune resultsE 7ine $> 4risis can mean opportunity but only !hen like+minded people are organi6ed behind a compelling ideal. 2his is particularly true during disorgani6ed times !hen energies and resources are scattered. >reat energy and generosity are needed to sei6e the moment and rally behind the common cause. At such times remember if you are not part of the cause you !ill become one of the effects. 7ine % <at the top=> 2his line refers a person tiptoeing around a dangerous situation to save those !ho are important to him or to take them a safe distance from damaging influences. 4onsider carefully the conse5uences of any course of action. 8hen treading through a minefield it furthers one to think on ones feet.

Artists note on painting, 9imits and Conne tions -- water above, lake below: #n this ill$stration limits are shown by the ontainment o% the water%all within the on%ines o% the pond it empties into! The pond is the water%alls limitation, and the bo$ndary it provides is regarded as ne essary and benign %or all on erned!

9?* i(its an2 Connections

;imits are necessary to give purpose and direction to life. *!imming in a sea of boundless opportunity !ould soon lead to e3haustion. 8inging it alone in a sky of boundless opportunity !ould lead to being lost. )n human affairs the making of choices and alliances implies limitation for in choosing one path another must be abandoned. One key to a successful life is to select your limits consciously and carefully ++ to be discriminating in the setting of personal boundaries but also kno!ing !hen to <oin in formation. 2hrift for e3ample often precedes prosperity <ust as the letting go of selfish interests often leads to greater personal re!ard. Only by consciously accepting useful limits can ones energy be channeled to good purpose and lead to lasting accomplishment. Point yourself to!ard a middle !ay the mean bet!een discipline and freedom of spirit. ;imits !ill come of their o!n accord= but to be able to consciously select your o!n affiliations in life I no! thats kno!ing ho! to flyE At the same time do not go overboard on discipline. :ven limitation must be limited so that in attempting to bring order and direction into your life you do not choke off vital sources of enthusiasm and spontaneity. *imilarly in groups and organi6ations the rules and regulations should strike a balance bet!een being too strict and too soft. )f too strict they build frustration among people and ultimately become destructive. )f too lenient sloppiness becomes acceptable and energy is soon dissipated. 2he best path is one that allo!s for the fulfillment of individual potential !hile encouraging self+discipline and focus. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> Before initiating action the !ise first evaluate their ability to carry out the task. )f the limitations are over!helming no action is taken. But inaction is also a kind of action because the passage of time often brings strength to !hat is !eak and adds energy to !hat has remained still. Caintain a steady purpose but act only !hen the time is ripe. )n this !ay limitations can serve your true interests. Only !ith the utmost discretion can anything be carried through to fruition at this time.

7ine 2> 8hen the !aters of a lake rise above the dam the !ater spills over !ithout hesitation. 8hen limits in a particular situation have suddenly been overcome nervous hesitancy to act is bound to be a mistake. *ei6e the momentE 7ine 3> 2o live a life of e3travagant lu3ury before having contributed to society= to act !illfully and selfishly in violation of reasonable rules and customs= to defy social conventions for the thrill of doing so ++ these are all e3cesses !hich can lead to serious and unfavorable conse5uences. ;earn to take initiative and pleasure inside the bounds of !hat is fair and proper. 7ine !> 2he measure by !hich to evaluate self+imposed limitations is this, do they save and restore energy or do they dissipate itA A diet that re5uires such constant vigilance and self+struggle to maintain that it saps not only physical energy but personal resolve !ill not achieve its intended purpose of restoring youth and vigor. Jain struggles !ith artificial limitations are best redirected 5uickly so that the true goal is kept in sight. :asy does it. 7ine $> "o not ask others to !ear a yoke you yourself !ould be un!illing to carry. )mpose no rules you yourself could not live by. 2his is especially true if you are in a position of leadership. )f you are able to impose limits on others that truly fit the circumstance and do not overly limit their freedom greater success is possible. 7ine % <at the top=> 2yranny never endures because the source of po!er is undermined. Ruthless severity in the administration of po!er ++ the imposing of strict limits on others freedom ++ can never be a consistent strategy for by its very consistency a greater counter force is encouraged to gro!. *everity can be imposed in specific circumstances !hen the situation calls for it but it must be specific in intent and limited in duration to be successful. )n the skillful e3ercise of leadership strong actions are balanced by mild and compassionate ones to achieve balance. A certain strictness may be called for ho!ever to protect oneself from temptation guilt or regret ++ or to save that !hich is most valuable.

Artists note on painting, Centering in Tr$th -- wind above, lake below: #t was di%%i $lt to try to ill$strate Centering in Tr$th witho$t $sing a sentient being with a brain! # hose to depi t it here $sing a Chinese river dolphin with ill$mined brain and heart, be a$se, to %ind inner tr$th, one needs both! The wind above stirs the weeds and wave tops, b$t does not deter the dolphin in his sear h!

9-* Centering in Truth

2ruth involves establishing an a!are relationship bet!een your inner core and the outer circumstances in your life. 4entering in truth involves the ability to perceive a fundamental !isdom reflected !ithin yourself as !ell as in others. 2ruth is transformed into po!er !hen you disperse all pre<udice and make yourself receptive to the !orld as it really is. 2his po!er can be a remarkable force indeed yet is more rare than generally imagined. )t can be maintained only by cultivating a genuine openness to the !ay things are ++ a !illingness to see rather than merely look. 8henever your inner life is clouded your influence in the !orld is under a shado!. )f you are fearful you !ill be attacked= if you cloak genuine mysteries in dogma opportunities for ne! insight !ill be lost. )f you vacillate in upholding your principles you !ill be tested. 9et !hen you are firm and strong the po!er of truth can break through even the most stubborn minds. )n any debate the po!er to perceive the truth in the other sides argument is essential to achieving success. )t is possible to influence even the most difficult people or improve the most difficult circumstance through the po!er of universal truth ++ for truth is something to !hich all beings naturally respond. >et in touch !ith that part of yourself that is a!are of this universal force of truth. 4ultivate this inner resource and you !ill become adept at using it to relate to others !ith a common purpose. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> )nner preparedness brings success. Personal stability of character and a steadfast dedication to the truth underlying every situation inevitably leads to good fortune. Relying on the perceptions of others ho!ever is not possible in this conte3t= you must learn to stand on your o!n to be in!ardly self+reliant to apply the po!er of inner truth for advancement. 7ine 2> A clear radiant unselfishness at the core of your being is a vital source of po!er and influence. )t spreads as surely as ripples on a pond !hen a stone is tossed into the center. A sincere reliance on your o!n integrity generates supreme good fortune. 7ine 3> 2he life of a person !ho is dependent upon others for truth and purpose is like a ship tossing on the sea. Hntil the ships anchor is dropped to the ocean floor there !ill be no stability in the rolling !aves. *uch an unbalanced person is tossed to the heights of <oy and happiness at one moment and to the depths of sadness at the ne3t.

)nner truth must be rooted in ones o!n perceptions and e3perience= at the gate to the palace of truth each of us stands alone. "are to kno! your o!n mind ++ and speak itE 7ine !> *ometimes to live consistent !ith your o!n truth is not easy. )n order to do so you must be able to !ork like a horse that pulls the plo! straight ahead bearing its burden resolutely and refusing to glance side!ays even to its mate !hile the !orkday is in progress. Avoid trendy fashions and cli5ues dig do!n deeply and your field !ill yield a bountiful harvest in the end. 7ine $> >reat unity is possible !hen the force of a strong personality can radiate influence. *uch a person is able to guide through the po!er of suggestion. Prosperity itself resides in the heart of such a leader and affects others through his or her very e3istence. )f such a person is true at heart coming into his circle of influence brings great good fortune. 7ine % <at the top=> )n the end !ords are birds and e3perience the tree they roost in. 2he po!er of inner truth is rooted in the tree. Birds come and go. 2alk is cheap.

Artists note on painting, Attention to *etail -- th$nder above, mo$ntain below: The impli ation here is that th$nder so$nds lo$der in the mo$ntains, whi h may be an ill$sion! This hexagram deals with so$nd re eived, messages transmitted, and the re eption o% in%ormation! # attempted to ill$strate this by making the mo$ntain look sim$ltaneo$sly like ears and like e hoes! The trees are distorted, and the th$nder reverberates above!

9/* Attention to Detai5

Ambitious undertakings are not in order no! but attention to small matters brings progress. *uch is the case of a person !hose resources are meager but !ho through modesty and perseverance rises to accomplish great things. 2he key to success is to avoid pretentious ambitions and grandiose goals. 2he po!er of the small is served by slo! and steady advancement and succeeds through an honest a!areness of its o!n limitations !ithout reservation. Codesty stemming from recogni6ing your limitations is a fine 5uality but it can be seen as !eakness if it is not accompanied by conscientiousness and dignity. )t is very important therefore to understand the demands of your situation and not to e3pect success in big things right no!. 2he !ise person recogni6es the nature of the time. *o kno! your o!n role carefully attend to details and act !ith humility and you can achieve success even !ith fe! resources. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> A changing first line suggests a baby bird that meets misfortune by trying to fly from the nest prematurely. 2he small must attain a certain stature before making even the most preliminary advances. A !illingness to attempt difficult tasks too 5uickly often invites unfortunate conse5uences. *tick to basics for the moment and make security a priority. 7ine 2> 8hen you are denied access to those !ho control your fate you have little choice but to accept the situation philosophically !hile !orking diligently to merit notice in the future. Restraint in difficult situations foreshado!s success in the future. 7ine 3> 8hen danger lurks the !ise take precautions= they do not consider even the smallest matters above their concern. Attention to small even petty details is often !hat paves the !ay for escape during a time of crisis. )f you venture into the heart of the city at night it pays to kno! the shortest safest !ay out before you enter. "o not allo! pride to come to the fore and delude you into a false sense of security. Pay attention to your surroundings before someone sneaks up behind you. 7ine !> 8hen embarking on a dangerous <ourney unarmed one must remain constantly alert and on guard. 8hen you are in a position of !eakness restraint and caution are the order of the day. 2o push ahead carelessly in such circumstances !ould be to invite severe misfortune. 7ine $> 8hen assembling a team to undertake a difficult task emphasi6e achievement and talent over status and reputation. Only by assembling solid individual elements can the small be transformed into the great. Deep the group chemistry in mind for harmonious !orking relationships are essential to the success of e3ceptional undertakings begun !ith meager resources. Codesty is key. 7ine % <at the top=> At a time !hen details are particularly important returning to the comfortable ground of generalities brings misfortune. )f you attempt overly ambitious undertakings !hen only small opportunities present

themselves misfortune is the result. Overshooting the mark !hether due to pride or inattention is like a plane coming in for a landing !ith the !rong readings. 9ou crash. 2ake things one step at a time and pay attention to detailsE

Artists note on painting, A%ter Completion -- water above, %ire below: The main idea here is that even a%ter things are ompleted one needs to be aware o% danger! #n this painting, the %ire below is %irst the thermal hot springs, and se ond -- %or emphasis -- the smoking vol ano! There is plenty o% dangero$s %ire below, whi h is not a pla e to be ompla ent!

91* After Co(,5etion

)t is a fine irony that after completion of a pro<ect or great enterprise there is still much left to do. 4ompletion is merely a pause in the cycle of creation and decay a momentary still point for the s!inging pendulum of life. 2hough completion does imply a period of restful pause ++ one that usually has been !ell earned ++ it is not an actual ending but a uni5uely harmonious flat spot in the constancy of change and movement. 2he image of After 4ompletion is that of a kettle of !ater boiling over a fire. 8hen the forces are balanced the !ater boils properly= but if the pot is too full and boils over it puts out the fire. On the other hand if the fire is too hot for too long it can evaporate all the !ater. )n maintaining the e5uilibrium that follo!s the completion of an arduous task forces at !ork in the situation must be monitored carefully to ensure that a proper balance is maintained. After 4ompletion is also the time for fine+tuning for refinements and embellishments of !hat has already been accomplished. :ven if !e en<oy a re!arding situation at the moment the la!s of the natural !orld dictate that influence and success must eventually decline. "ont let current good fortune prompt careless or rela3ed attitudes. 8hatever is successful or already established needs to be carefully maintained !ithout trying to e3pand it no!. 8hat is incomplete on the other hand should be brought to fruition !ithout delay. 2ake satisfaction upon completion en<oy a sense of fulfillment but do not d!ell on endings. 6oving 7ine Interpretations
7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> )n the period follo!ing the completion of a ma<or undertaking the momentum of previous effort still prevails and there is a tendency to continue on!ard. Be careful at such moments for once a pro<ect has reached its proper end point continuation for its o!n sake can bring misfortune. Pressing ahead after completion can threaten to bring collapse to past successes= ho!ever even in this case no real harm results if ones demeanor has been correct. 7ine 2> )f a kind of stagnation has seeped into the current situation because of past success your talents may be hidden ++ either by circumstance or by the efforts of those in positions of po!er. 8hen this happens it is important not to try

to attract attention to yourself through immodest behavior. Be patient. 2hat !hich is rightfully yours in the end cannot be denied. 7ine 3> After the completion of a great enterprise be !ary of the urge to keep e3panding. Allo! victories some time to settle in and approach ne! steps !ith the same determination and attention to detail that have sustained past efforts. )f success has brought ne! responsibility into your life try to delegate it properly by choosing people of talent and ability to !ork !ith you. 2his !ill not be an easy task so gather your energies. 7ine !> "uring times of harmony and prosperity certain small imperfections !ill eventually sho! themselves. 8hile it is important not to overreact the prudent !ill take decisive action to eliminate small problems before they are allo!ed to become large ones. 7ine $> )n spiritual and religious matters prosperity can breed pomp and ostentation. )t is vital to remember that !ealth is not a sign of divine <udgment. 8hat is lacking in such a display is piety and respect for the divine. 7umankind sees !hat is manifest in the material !orld but spirit notices only !hat is held in the heart. )n times of prosperity it is vital to retain humility and preserve goodness of heart. Ornate religious displays devoid of true spirit are like gaudy empty carriages rattling in the !ind. 8hether rich or poor nothing is more important than sincerity modesty and honesty in !hatever is offered. 7ine % <at the top=> 8hen one has scaled a dangerous cliff there is a natural tendency to look back and revel in the drama of having overcome it. But lingering may present a greater danger, !hat has been safely in the background For in the pastG may be gaining on you. )t is best left in the past. No! is the time to focus on for!ard movement. "ont hesitate or allo! yourself to be complacent or self+ congratulatory. )f you pause right no! greater risks could 5uickly mount up. 2his is a time of opportunity but one !here seemingly stable circumstances conceal negative influences. A failure to move for!ard 5uickly no! !ould cause you to fall back perhaps into ha6ardous circumstances. 2o bask in admiration for yourself for ho! !ell you have done to achieve this position !ill only invite it back. Cove onE

Artists note on painting, 7earing Completion -- %ire above, water below: The bridge indi ates a need to onne t parts o% a ,o$rney be%ore it an be ompleted! The season is a$t$mn to symboli"e that the year was 7earing Completion! The %ire is pla ed on the bridge, whi h may have something to do with b$rning bridges before theyre rossed!

96* "earing Co(,5etion

2he situation is incomplete but the chaos of the past is slo!ly giving !ay to order and the goal is in sight. Nevertheless you are still treading on thin ice. 2he !ay ahead is unobstructed the goal is clear but a cautious and careful attitude is still essential lest you slip and fall. Nearing 4ompletion is the last he3agram of the I Ching. )t suggests that the ever+spinning !heel of life never reaches a final conclusion. $ust as a hidden sadness resides in the heart of true euphoria <ust as the seeds of great achievement often sprout in a caldron of adversity so too no end is ever really complete !ithout a ne! beginning stirring inside it. 2hough !e divide life into categories in order to understand and manage it e3perience itself is seamless. 8ith this reading the si3ty+four+spoked timeless !heel of change is ready to spin on!ard ever evolving ever staying the same. 2he situation represented by this reading can be compared to that of taking a lengthy trek over a high mountain. At some point before reaching the peak you can see in detail e3actly ho! much farther you must travel. 9ou !ill have a good idea !hat it !ill take to reach the top because of the climbing e3perience youve accumulated thus far. 7o!ever !hen you do reach the peak !hich has been in sight for 5uite a long period of sustained effort you !ill have done only that. 9ou !ill have reached the top ++ achieving your initial goal ++ but no! you must still descend the other side. 2his last critical segment is !hat remains before completion. 9ou may have little information and no e3perience of !hat its like descending the other side of that mountain. All your attention may have been focused on the route up. 2he coming situation may seem very strange to you unlike anything that you have e3perienced before. 2he backside of the mountain is !here all of the true mysteries reside. Proceed carefully cautiously alertly ++ and you !ill reach your goal.

6oving 7ine Interpretations

7ine 1 <at the 8otto.=> )n periods of chaos there is a strong tendency to become overan3ious to thro! caution to the !ind and rush to the end. ;ike the young fo3 that dashes ahead as it nears its goal one !ill be treading on thin ice if an attempt is made to escape problems too 5uickly. 7old back a little and spare yourself humiliation. 7ine 2> 2he time is not yet ripe for direct action. Patience is advised but dont let the period of !aiting degenerate into mere idleness. 2his is the patience of an engine revving in neutral. Be ready and !aiting keep your eyes on the pri6e but do not move before you get a green light. 7ine 3> A transition from harmful entanglements to a clean success is possible but you may currently lack ade5uate strength to complete the undertaking. 8hen caught in such a situation enlist the aid of others to help you to!ard your goal. #ailure to do so !ould court disaster. 7ine !> )nevitably as chaos gives !ay to a ne! order and troubles dissolve themselves in the clarity of a fresh solution ne! struggles develop. 2his changing line refers to a situation !here forces of decadence threaten. 9ou must either advance strongly and firmly or face humiliation and defeat. 2ake heart and enter the fray. All of your skills talents and influence !ill be needed and that in itself is a great benefit. 7ine $> 2he rascals have been routed and victory is close at handE $ust as the sun shines s!eetest after a hard rain so the victory is all the more <oyous by contrasting it !ith the alternative. Bask for a time in the glory of the successful struggle and then move ahead carefully to!ard !hat no! can be yours. 2he time is ripe for great achievement. 7ine % <at the top=> 2here is a refreshing ne! sense of !ell+being that comes from an end to conflicts !ith others or inside yourself. 4elebrate and en<oy but dont overdo it lest your vision and confidence be lost. 8hile a glass of !ine can evoke the pleasant glo! of success an entire bottle puts out the light.

$A)T II: ABOUT THE I CHI"+ Cha,ter -: What is the I Ching.

The I !hing, or #ook of !hanges +in !hinese "I$ means change and "!hing$ means classic or book,, is the most revered of humanity7s classial divination systems and also one of the oldest books in the world. #uilt on the binary logic of yinJyang, the I !hing system is used to stimulate insights and develop strategies for managing change based on the Taoist notion of a dynamic interplay between yin and yang. 3s a decision making tool, the I !hing7s outside the box perspective helps a conscious person resolve problems and dilemmas that logic by itself can7t handle. The I !hing is an ancient intuitive decision making system, designed not only for insight into current conditions, but for managing change over time. Bven though it is thousands of years old, it is one of the most intricate divination systems ever devised. The &rst textual interpretations for the I !hing were written around =666 #!, and this body of work was greatly expanded on by !onfucius around ?66 #!. Throughout its long history, the I !hing has been used by !hinese sages, and political and military leaders, as a source of guidance and wisdom, and as a way to assist in strategic decision making and timing. The I !hing consists of ?0 six line patterns, called hexagrams, which are built from the bottom up. The lines are grouped into two pairs of the three line trigrams, one stacked on top of the other. The individual lines within the trigrams and hexagrams are either solid lines +yang, or broken lines +yin,, which is determined by means of a "casting$ ritual, traditionally using coins or sticks. The eight trigrams, or "gua,$ represent foundational principles of life and realityK they are named for speci&c attributes and are associated with other correspondences like the eight directions, an sometimes called

aspect of nature, personality, and the &ve !hinese elements. The &ve elements phases

describe the connection and interplay between all matter and energy. 3ll of these

correspondences provide the basis for traditional !hinese culture, including !hinese astrology, !hinese medicine, martial arts, and 2eng )hui. The &rst trigram, Li, is called "2ire,$ which is also its element. The second trigram, )un, is "Barth,$ which is considered receptive and supportive because Barth supports and nurtures humanity. *ui, the third trigram, is of the metal element, and is known as "Hake.$ +ian is called ")ky$ and also denotes metal as its element. )ky represents the creative power of in&nite space that accommodates the entire universe. The trigram )an is named "Water,$ which is its element. ,en, the sixth trigram, is "9ountain$ and is of an earth element like the second trigram. The seventh trigram is -hen, or "Thunder,$ and is of the element of wood. The &nal trigram, .un, is the symbol of "Wind$ and also has the element of wood. #y representing the set of different combinations of yin and yang, the trigrams and hexagrams of the I !hing represent the energetic flow or Tao of human dynamics, situations, dilemmas or

circumstances. The I !hing maps out the patterns of yin and yang that go together in time, and allows us to interpret those patterns around a particular focus or *uery. Bach of the I !hing7s ?0 hexagrams can morph into any of the other ?I hexagrams, by means of "changing lines$ that provide speci&c insights into a situation that is in the process of change, implicitly acknowledging that the current reality being reflected is marked by changes in process. +:oteE When tossing three coins, a changing line is indicated by three of a kind, which has a ALM statistical chance of happening one way or the other, so changing lines are relatively rare, happening on average only =.L times out of the ? lines per hexagram., It7s interesting to note that the I !hing, with its yinJyang system of changing polarities energy flipping into yang and vice versa of yin

informed the development of binary mathematics

during the =Dth century by the Cerman mathematician and philosopher Hiebni8 when he became aware that his binary system had long been operative in ancient !hina. 3nd, more than a century

later, binary mathematics profoundly informed the design of the &rst digital computers by von :eumann in the =>06s. The largest credit for introducing the I !hing to the west goes to -ichard Wilhelm, a ;rotestant missionary in !hina, who translated the text into Cerman in =>AI. Wilhelm7s version was re translated to Bnglish by !ary 2. #aynes and published in =>L6 with an Introduction by the depth psychologist, !arl <ung, wherein he introduces his famous )ynchronicity ;rinciple.

Tanslator -ichard Wilhelm described the origins of the ) 4hingE /t the outset, the 0ook of Changes was a collection of linear signs to be used as oracles In anti1uity, oracles were e#erywhere in use2 the oldest among them confined themsel#es to the answers yes and no3 45es6 was indicated by a simple unbroken line 789, and 4:o6 by a broken line 78 89 Howe#er, the need for greater differentiation seems to ha#e been felt at an early date, and the single lines were combined in pairs To each of these combinations a third line was then added In this way the eight trigrams came into being These eight trigrams were concei#ed as images of all that happens in hea#en and on earth3 In order to achie#e a still greater multiplicity, these eight images were combined with one another at a #ery early date, whereby a total of sixty8four signs was obtained <ung was a contemporary and friend of Wilhelm. .is research on archetypes and synchronicity was profoundly inspired and influenced by the I !hing after Wilhelm introduced it to him. <ung studied it for decades, and wrote the introduction to Wilhelm7s translation when it was published in Bnglish in =>L6. )tudying the arrangement of the universal principles represented by the ?0 hexagrams and their permutations, <ung saw the I !hing as a self contained holistic system of interacting archetypes revealing an acausal creative dimension through the agency of synchronicity. 3s per a suggestion by his friend 3lbert Binstein, <ung had been considering whether BinsteinNs idea of relativity might also pertain to the dimension of time i.e. that things

may have acausal connectedness in terms of their timing, in a way that is roughly analogous to behaviors of sub atomic particles. Hike !onfucius additional lifetime to its study who said that he would devote an entire

<ung responded enthusiastically to the great classic and studied it

for decades. .e recogni8ed the universality of its set of ?0 archetypes, noting that they constitute a balanced set of human dynamics or situations.

9ore than anyone else

through his writings, including his elo*uent introduction to the Wilhelm <ung explained divination to the modern world. Through the lens

#aynes version of the I !hing

of archetypal psychology, it became clear that divination systems like I !hing and Tarot were not just fortune telling tricks, but sophisticated psychological tools, even if they had been widely misappropriated by gypsies and psychics. Throughout human history, leaders of societies have relied on oracles and seers for guidance on weighty matters, using them in much the same manner as !arl <ung has helped modern seekers learn and appreciate. In addition to the I !hing and some A,666 years later, Tarot human

beings have turned to divinatory sets of archetypes for guidance. In India there is the ancient divinatory 0ook of 0righu, and the !hristian and <ewish scriptures are littered with referrals to prophets, royal diviners, dream interpreters and astrologers +for a full listing of all such references in the #ible the majority displaying Cod7s approval see 3ppendix of this author7s book,

*i#ination; &acred Tools for <eading the =ind of ,od9 . We are accustomed to thinking of oracles as human agents, like the %racle at (elphi or the prophets of the %ld Testament @ individuals who are gifted with psychic powers, who intercede with divine intelligence to channel portentous advice for the rest of us. The I !hing is a system of divination that offers a special advantage over this approach, because its use does not re*uire any third party intermediary. It can be used by anyone at any time as a way to stimulate and awaken internal resources in the form of oneNs own intuition to serve as a source of wisdom and guidance.. 3s many who have consulted a psychic can tell you, third party facilitation is a two sided coin. %n the one hand, a counselor can communicate with you in a personal way, taking into account what they have learned from listening to what you7ve told them about your desires and your situation and your life story, as well as what they have observed of your personal mannerisms and reactions. :ot only does this help them tune into you, but it also gives you the comfortable feeling that you are being personally attended to which can feel emotionally supportive. %n the other hand, it

also makes it easier for you to accept whatever suggestions they might make. The downside of a personal psychic reading is that a psychic7s own issues, problems, circumstances, mood might

cause them to make projections, and overlay a clear perception of your reality with their own emotional states and prejudices. In contrast, an impersonal divination system like the I !hing is not at all concerned with your personality or ego, in making you feel one way or another, or retaining you as a future client. The Cha55enge of Managing Change The only thing we can absolutely count on is that things will change whether we like the ways

things unfold or not. In an effort to improve our ability to be in sync with changing needs and conditions, modern experts came up with the discipline called "change management.$ The I !hing divination system is arguably humanity7s original change management tool. :ever has humanity needed change management skill more than we do now. 3s the rate of change continues to rapidly accelerate, new and different conditions arise more and more rapidly. :ever before has the impact of change been so fast and furious. The only way to keep up with our modern rate of change is to make better decisions, including the prioriti8ing of which issues to deal with and in what order, as well as which to ignore for the time being. In short, effective change management re*uires an ongoing dance of skillful decision making. )trategic decision making is an ability that offers human beings the highest leverage, the skill that more than anything else determines success or failure, happiness or sorrow. We humans are the only species on earth that can visuali8e different possible outcomes following from all the choices we could make. In spite of this uni*ue capacity to visuali8e and consider possible futures, however, we are generally not good at decision making. We tend to go from one extreme or the other either too emotional and impulsive or overly analytical and procrastinating. We are susceptible to many biases. 3nd we are repeatedly thrown off track by black and white, all or nothing wishful thinking. #ecause it is so important and relatively rare the ability to skillfully make important decisions

is well rewarded, which is why leaders and executives are delegated such power, status and wealth. 3 president deals with terroristsK a !B% makes a strategic decision that affects an entire marketK

and an individual investor decides to sell short. 9aking skillful and timely choices is the most critical and highest leveraged human activity. It is also one of the most stressful. Urgenc& )atchets theDecision3Making $ressure (uring this chaotic information age, the need for great decision making is more than just important decisions are also more urgent, which adds to the stress. Today7s adults have to make as many decisions in a year as our grandparents had to make in a decade, and the fate of the world depends more than ever upon the decision making skill of our leaders. 9eanwhile, with the help of modern communications technologies, we are expected to make decisions that much more *uickly. 3ll the while our media saturated brains are bombarded with partisan or commercial messages, most of which are prejudiced or just plain wrong. The !hinese curse, "9ay you live in interesting times,$ has come true and with a vengeance.

3s a result of this increased pressure, we live and work in an age of high anxiety. .uman beings have always had plenty of reasons to feel insecure, but things are *ualitatively, as well as *uantitatively, a little bit different now. -apid societal change and all the uncertainty that accompanies it have accumulated to chaotic levels. 3s 3lvin Toffler7s seminal work, !uture &hock, predicted in the early =>F6s and as events since then have unmistakably con&rmed the pace of

change is increasing at an exponential rate, along with the pressures to execute the kinds of good decisions needed to manage it successfully. The good news is that change is not all bad. While shifting conditions demand new strategies, they also offer up exciting new opportunities for those who can manage change to think and operate

outside the box, to be creative and manifest better results. #ut let there be no doubt that the core component and challenge of change management is to make skillful decisions and make the

right moves at the right time. The $erfection of Ti(ing

They say that timing is everything. Indeed, making the right move at the right time is the essence of enlightened decision making. Timing itself is a type of decision, providing the answer to the *uestion, "When should I make my moveO$ The I !hing is all about change and managing change which is essentially timing and that sometimes just means waiting for the right time to do

something. #ut it can be hard to be so patient when you are feeling anxious. )trategic decision making involves the analysis of information, but relies more on intuition, courage and good timing. Timing is intuitively knowing when to say "yes,$ and when to say "no,$ when to sleep on it, when to go for it, when to delay grati&cation. I learned from my own experience that making the right decisions at the right time is the consummate skill of a successful entrepreneur or !B%. 3lthough it shows up prominently in great leaders, skillfulness in decision making applies to every one of us, because we are each the chief executive of our own lives. %ne of the reasons we have so much trouble with timing is that we feel pressured to &x everything now or make something change in a certain way, and as *uickly as possible. We suffer from what some time management theorists call "hurry sickness$ @ we are always in a hurry, getting ahead of ourselves, on to the next thing before we have given a current situation the time and space it needs to fully unfold. Whether our decisions are of a personal nature or operating in a wider realm, sometimes it7s wise to wait a little bit to decide not to decide, at least not just yet. There7s a lot

more to problem solving than just asseringt oneself +or one7s opinions,. In the martial arts, which are based on the wisdom of Taoism and the I !hing, it is taught that there are times when it7s smart to assert oneself, but there are also times when it7s best to be patient and do nothing, and yet other times when it behooves us to retreat or even run for the hills5 3s much as it may frustrate stock traders, knowing the right time to make a move to buy or sell cannot be determined by

analysis of information or trends alone. 2or truly great timing, intuition is re*uired. Intuition 3s we have seen, the I !hing is not a fortune telling game, or even just a book of wisdom. 3n I !hing consultation, approached with sincere intent, is an interactive experience +even without

computers, that can stimulate the intuition to help you think outside the box around problems or dilemmas that logic by itself can7t handle. The Western world has glori&ed reason and has looked to science for the solution to most problems ...if science can7t explain it, some scientists reason, it7s not worth thinking about. The assumption of the logical mind has been suf&cient data in, good answers out. 3long with the rise of the Internet and its promise of instant access to unlimited information it was thought that

logical decision making would become easy and convenient, and that the best conclusions would be more consistently arrived at. Well, think again. Whether weighing pros and cons, analy8ing statistics, applying probability theory, or &ne tuning computer models, logical analysis is only as good as the information we are able to gather and sort. 3nd that7s a serious rub. :owadays we7ve got too much information to sift through most of it incomplete or erroneous and it is almost impossible to tell what is reliable

from what is bogus. Bven that which we currently accept as true has a shorter shelf lifeK rapid change *uickly makes current knowledge obsolete. The weakness of the ultrarational decision makers is a tendency to delay the process while awaiting more information, but, as they do, they are liable to miss shrinking windows of opportunity. )o, how do we determine which portions of available information are true or meaningful so that we can make the decisions that need to be made in a timely mannerO Ironically, we must rely on intuition to help us decide which "facts$ we will trust5 When we try by means of scienti&c method to divine the mysterious workings of the universe, the market, or even relationships, we are bound to stumble. 3lthough both sides of the brain are involved, superior strategic decision making is more intuitive than logical. .aving harnessed powerful computers the ultimate models of left brain processing @ for decades, perhaps we are

&nally becoming realistic about their limitations. 3 good intuition depends on something more than the brain7s sheer processing power.

It is well documented that many of the greatest discoveries of science, music, and business have been inspired or informed by a dream, vision, or gut feeling. )o why does science tend to underreport this fact that applies to its own discoveriesO ;erhaps it is because the phenomenon of creative inspiration happens in a domain that cannot be measured or controlled and that makes some scientists uncomfortable. There is no *uestion that logical analysis and scienti&c method have played a major role in the unraveling of nature7s secrets and the invention of new technologies that have helped humankind. #ut real world experience has shown that the intuitive factor through dreams or daydreams

has played a key role in many breakthrough discoveries of science +including the "thought experiments$ that preceded the &nal mathematical proofs of *uantum mechanics and Binstein7s relativity theory,. Intuition is that faculty of direct knowing that takes place beyond the domain of rational processes. This is what makes it seem mysterious and for many scientists, hard to credit

since, even though they bene&t from it, intuition operates outside the stream of ordinary thinking and consciousness, or anything they can measure. 3n intuitive insight is a thought that can arise in different ways from a vague hunch to a vision

or a fully developed outline. It may arrive as a mathematical e*uation, a melodic score, or an invention, or as simply a feeling about the best path to take. It can also take the form of a new thought that arises as a result of interpreting the archetypal symbology of an I !hing reading. (ivination systems like the I !hing serve as ways to support or stimulate the intuitive centers of the mind. The I !hing change management tool comes out of a humble and holistic philosophy that appreciates a cosmic order that is beyond our limited ability to &gure things out logically. When it comes to strategic decision making, divination systems like the I !hing offer us a way to stimulate our intuition, enhance our creativity, improve our timing and make better decisions.

Bene4ts of Using the I Ching

Intuitive Decision-Making Support 3s said the *uality of our decision making determines our level of success and happiness more than any other factor. 3s we face more challenges, as crises or emotional reactions flood our consciousness, logical reasoning becomes insuf&cient. :o matter how much information you have, it7s normal to have doubts about whether or not you7re making the best decision about an important matter. Worry and anxiety only add to the stress, which makes it even more dif&cult to get clarity. !onsidering that few of us have a mentor or advisor constantly available whose wisdom we respect, we need to make the most of our internal intuitive resources. !onsulting the I !hing provides direct access to profound wisdom. The insights that arise make dilemmas easier to accept and resolve. The support offered by the I !hing helps make your decisions easier to live with. )tressful situations turn into con&dence building opportunities, and confusing relationship dynamics take a turn toward greater clarity and learning. Mental Clarity. The process of consulting the I !hing provides some "ritual space$ at the very

least a non emotional mindset to articulate a *uestion, problem or dilemma @ which supports getting clear about what you really want and what it really means to you. The simple act of getting clear about a charged issue is a signi&cant &rst step toward its resolution. Non-Attachment and Greater O !ectivity. 3n I !hing consultation mediates between the reality of your dilemma and your focused in*uiring mind. <ust doing the casting ritual will help you create some emotional distance from any problem or fear that you are focused on. The more nonattached you are, the less catastrophic or threatening things appear and the less impact the emotion of fear will have on your interpretation of what is showing up. 1ou will see things from a wider perspective and become more objective. )killful nonattachment gives you a powerful advantage in any situation, leading to more creative approaches and better choices. "ocused #ela$ation. )tudies have long proven that a calm state of focused relaxation is the best mindset for intuition and creativity. The I !hing allows you to focus on issues of personal importance with less stress aligning the conscious and subconscious parts of your mind so that

they can coordinate with each other and connect with the spiritual dimension for maximum wisdom and effectiveness. Clear Intuition. The I !hing stimulates the intuition by producing a pattern for your subconscious mind to resonate with. It is your interpretation of the resulting reading that activates the intuitive sense. There is no need to take the I !hing literally. %ften it hints at things or "tweaks$ you @ in the form of a new thought or insight just feeling right. 'sing the I !hing is not a *uestion of believing in anything. Think of it like a rudder on a sailboat or a nautical steering wheel slightly imprecise

but ultimately effective at guiding your vessel through rolling waves of change or choppy seas. Great Advice. To derive bene&t from the I !hing process, all you have to do is be receptive to any new thoughts that arise. It is not necessary to believe in anything, or even to follow the literal meaning of any of the text in an I !hing reading. 1our interpretation of the hexagram you cast will either be able to generate a meaningful insight within your mind or not. 2or thousands of years, highly intelligent people have reported that they &nd the hexagrams to be remarkably able to help them better direct their thoughts and actions towards the good that they desire. In order to access all of the bene&ts of the I !hing, one must learn how how to use it effectively. Thanks to !arl <ung7s research and practice, we now have the ability to describe what7s happening when we consult the I !hing, as well as the psychology behind the process, which we explore in the next section.

Cha,ter /: Wh& the I Ching Works

Ansering a Different Sort of Buestion #efore he passed away, Terence 9cPenna, the modern mystical scientist, spoke of the ancient sages who developed the I !hing, about how they were concerned with a different sort of *uestion than that which scientists of the West have focused on. 3s Terence brilliantly elucidated, our modern science has largely focused on the *uestion, "What are things made ofO$ which has led to useful discoveries, breakthroughs and new technologies. The ancient sages of the Bast, on the other hand, were interested in a different sort of *uestion one that pertains to the realm of human

society, relationships and politics. The more interactive *uestion that concerned them was, "What kinds of things tend to go together in timeO$ and "When is the right time to make a moveO$ )cience hardly considers time to be relevant. It is assumed that if you perform the same controlled experiment in the middle of the night on Tuesday, the results will come out the same if you repeat it again at noon on )aturday. In scienti&c method, the dimension of time is removed from the e*uation. It7s no wonder that, for all the good it has done to improve things technologically, science has not taught us much about good timing5 In our era of rapidly accelerating change of great technological leaps coupled with conflicts the social networking

between cultures, political tumult, and new forms of human relationships

interests of the ancient !hinese sages are coming to the forefront once more. )cience has done wonders for humanity +and created some horrors too,, but taking things apart and making synthetic new combinations is not going to solve the messes that humanity has created out of our mania for controlling nature. It7s time to relearn how to integrate with the natural world by making

harmonious choices that incorporate a higher consciousness through the development of our intuition, the source of good timing. If we can learn what kinds of things go together in time, then we can make the right moves at the right time better decisions that are not only good in the short

term, but for the good of all, including generations to come.

The ancient sages were highly concerned with the social and political world of human beings world of relationships, politics, interpersonal negotiations, and transactions important human

the

domains where change management is a paramount factor for success. Hogic can help us ferret out some positive options, but whether it7s a game of chess or the game of life, the *uestion of when to make a move is just as important, and can never be answered by logic alone. 9aking the right moves at the right time is the pinnacle of conscious decision making. The relativity of time was deeply investigated by the great depth psychologist, !arl <ung. Two of the building blocks of divination systems that he de&ned are 3rchetypes and the )ynchronicity ;rinciple. Het7s take a look at them. Archet&,es !arl <ung did more than anyone to help us understand how divination systems like the I !hing work, and how they are a fascinating intersection of ancient wisdom and modern psychology. #y explaining the concepts of synchronicity and archetypes, he showed how divination systems could be used to make better decisions and manage our lives in a more meaningful way. <ung was fascinated with the I !hing and its collection of ?0 hexagrams, which he recogni8ed as linked to archetypal energies. <ung7s theory of archetypes was based on ;lato7s concept of 2orms archetypes being ideal forms that provide the templates for all of nature, including human beings. <ung took this concept, re&ned it, and made it integral to his work as the developer of a new kind of psychology, one that recogni8ed a "collective unconscious$ which was the source of mythologies, dream images and universal archetypes across cultures and centuries. 3 set of archetypes is a landscape of attributes and psychological forces that describe and reshape human consciousness. These universal energies are operative within every one of us throughout our lives. 3rchetypes represent and reflect the *ualities of human consciousness that are expressed in our actions, reactions, and desires. Their energies inform personal relations, business dealings, social situations and all the various roles we play.

When we consider the Queen or Ping archetype, for instance, we are thinking not of an actual political position, but of ourselves in a psychological position of sovereignty or strong influence. 3ccording to a <ungian understanding of archetypes, this regal essence is just one element within every individual7s psyche +as is every other archetype,. It cannot be overemphasi8ed that archetypes are metaphorical, not literal. .owever, no listing of all possible archetypes exists, and sets of them are described by a number of different divination systems like Tarot, 3strology, :umerology and the I !hing. Bven within any one system, <ung believed that archetypes couldn7t be exactly pinned down. )ince they reside in the collective unconscious, they cannot be owned, only channeled or expressed. If a symbol, behavior or activity shows up consistently across cultures and throughout history <ung witnessed through dream analysis across cultures something that

he recogni8ed it as a universal archetype.

.e regarded the set of archetypes presented by the ?0 hexagrams of the I !hing as an authentic and balanced set within itself. Individuals manifest different traits in differing proportions at different times in their lives, but to some degree the energy or attitude of every archetype is contained within each of us. There is something reassuring in knowing that we all contain different combinations of the same stuff the

same instincts, desires, needs, impulses and fears. <ung also taught that each archetype has a dark side as well as a positive side, and he referred to the dark aspect as the ")hadow.$ )hadow is a &tting image for all that humanity disowns, represses, fears or denies in itself, but archetypes are neither positive nor negative in any objective sense. .owever, if the human ego identi&es too much with an archetype, becoming overwhelmed or "flooded$ by it, rather than self regulating the tapping of its energy, ego inflation and subse*uent problems will invariably result. 2or comprehensive information on <ung7s general theory of archetypes or the shadow, see !arl <ung7s collected works edited by <oseph !ampbell in The "ortable >ung. In order for a divination system to be a truly useful tool of reflection and activation, its set of archetypes needs to possess balance between light and shadow. 3 collection of warm and fu88y

attributes might make people feel good, but such a concoction cannot serve as an accurate reflection of human conditions or as a good tool for decision making support. The I !hing, on the other hand, reflects a balanced range of human experience, including the shadowy elements. 3wareness and respect are re*uired for the skillful expression of archetypal energies that can flow through us. %nly when we recogni8e an archetype operating within or through us are we able to channel the energy carefully or "ride it$ to any extent. The art of powerful living is to be able to connect our unconscious power centers the archetypes with our conscious choices,

commitments, and actions. This is the path of developing greater self knowledge and integrity, the springboards for wisdom and success in life. It7s not about analy8ing things in terms of archetypes, as if these were the building blocks of reality, which they are not. They are reservoirs of dynamic energies that operate through a human being immersed in reality, searching for meaning rather than just information. #ecoming aware of the archetypal dimensions of reality is a &rst step. The S&nchronicit& $rinci,5e <ung had a friend in the person of 3lbert Binstein, who was often his dinner guest. Binstein7s influence on <ung was substantial. 2or instance, it was Binstein who suggested to <ung the idea that the principle of relativity might apply to time as well as space. 3s <ung put it in his journalE It was $instein who first started me off thinking about a possible relati#ity of time as well as space, and their psychic conditionality =ore than thirty years later this stimulus led to my relation with the physicist "rofessor ? "auli and to my thesis of psychic synchronicity )ynchronicity, as <ung de&ned it, describes relationships that exist in the mysterious dimension of time, as in the coming together of two or more disparate events, which could give rise to flashes of insight or creative inspiration. .uman beings in all societies have accepted the notion that events can cluster in time as evidenced by folk sayings like, "good things happen in threeNs,$ and so on.

#ut in today7s scienti&c world, we tend to dismiss such notions as mere superstitions. :evertheless, as <ung witnessed in his psychotherapeutic practice, we experience coincidences that are deeply meaningful, if we can perceive them symbolically and psychologically. !arl <ung

coined the term "synchronicity$ to de&ne and describe meaningful coincidences, arising from intuitive contact with what he called the "collective unconscious.$ <ung coined the term "synchronicity$ in =>AD, and &rst publicly used the term in =>I6 at the funeral ceremony for -ichard Wilhelm and again in his forward to Wilhelm7s publication of the I Ching in =>L6. In his essay entitled ")ynchronicity, 3n 3causal !onnecting ;rinciple,$ <ung contrasted the modern Western mindset with the Bastern perspective. This in#ol#es a certain curious principle that I ha#e termed @synchronicity,A a concept that formulates a point of #iew diametrically opposed to that of causality &ince the latter is merely statistical truth and not absolute, it is a sort of working hypothesis of how e#ents e#ol#e one out of another, whereas synchronicity takes the coincidence of e#ents in space and time as meaning something more than mere chance, namely, a peculiar interdependence of objecti#e e#ents among themsel#es as well as with the subjecti#e 7psychic9 states of the obser#er or obser#ers 3lthough belief in synchronicity seems to fly in the face of scienti&c method objectively pinpoint, measure and predict cause and effect which attempts to

<ung7s )ynchronicity ;rinciple was

indirectly validated by the physicist Werner .eisenberg7s exposition of the 'ncertainty ;rinciple in =>IF. In his proof, which still stands, .eisenberg demonstrated that atomic particles at least in the realm of sub

the act of perception influences that which is being perceived, which basically

means that objective, accurate measurement is basically not even possible. This can loosely be interpreted to imply that everything that happens in a given situation at a given time participates with, and affects, everything else including the consciousness of the perceiver, which is the

essence of <ung7s synchronicity principle. #y reaching beyond the linear approaches and tunnel vision of a purely logical intellect, <ung showed us how a keener discernment of a holistic point of view can take advantage of "the irrational functions of consciousness sensation and intuition.$

Bven though they lacked modern technology +or perhaps because of this,, these interrelationships and the importance of timing may have been more clear to the sages of ancient cultures. Bven

though we moderns excel at applying a logical, objective line of in*uiry toward discovering and inventing technologies, we have been handicapped when it comes to knowing the relationship between subjective experience and objective reality at any given moment. +3ccording to his biographer, Walter Isaacson, even an extremely broad minded scientist like Binstein was never totally comfortable with the rami&cations of his own discoveries in the realm of subatomic physics., :evertheless, just about anyone who cares to notice and reflect can recall ama8ing coincidences that turned out to have carried real meaning in their lives. That is synchronicity in action. There are three categories of synchronicity. The &rst occurs when an individual has a thought, and some related external event occurs at the same time, and within her or his &eld of perception. We immediately get the sense of meaning in these occurrences. The second type of synchronicity occurs when an internal mental process corresponds to an event that happens concurrently, but at a distance. 3nd the last type happens when an internal thought relates to an external event that hasn7t happened yet, but where no causal relationship seems possible. The last two types of synchronicity cannot be known immediately they can only be veri&ed at a later time. This points to the

"predictive intelligence$ of the I !hing, usually presented in the elements of an I !hing reading called "the changing lines$ and "future hexagram.$ .ow does the )ynchronicity ;rinciple operate via the I !hingO In an I !hing consultation, when you formulate your *uestion and focus on it, you deliberately enter into an expectant state of receptivity to a synchronistic response. #y tossing coins +or, in an older form of the ritual, yarrow stalks,, you are injecting a seemingly random element into the e*uation, but since you are casting your hexagram while maintaining a focused expectant state, the event takes on a personal aspect. 1ou are, in effect, creating your own meaningful coincidence. <ung was fascinated by how the I !hing provided a systematic mirror for gaining insights into any human situation or moment in time not by taking it apart and analy8ing its components, but by

viewing dynamic elements in context, as part of a seamless whole. %ne of these elements is the way the coins fall. "There is no need,$ he wrote, "of any criteria which imposes conditions and

restricts the wholeness of the natural process.... In the I !hing, the coins fall just as happens to suit them.$ This is key to understanding <ung7s psychological worldview. The world is an interconnected web of the subjective and objective, with synchronicity providing a link between the two. <ung7s research coincided with the new *uantum physics of the A6th century, and he borrowed from the hard sciences in his explanations of synchronicity and consciousness. Bven though, as a self respecting scientist, he was reluctant to write or talk about it for twenty years, <ung showed us how *uantum physics which empirically demonstrates behaviors that can only be described as contributes to understanding how divination systems work too.

"paradoxical synchronicities$

The application of the )ynchronicity ;rinciple is based on the idea that looking for meaning in coincidental events can be more effective than striving to predict things according to notions of causality +with help from statistics,. 3ncient observers, who lacked our record keeping technology, may have found it easier to reali8e this, and devised the 0ook of Changes to put their keen observations to work. !ombining the magic of numerical coincidences with an inspired and balanced set of ?0 archetypes, they believed they could read the patterns of how things go together in time. The result is the I !hing, which is used to this day for greater wisdom, better timing, and more skillful decision making.

Cha,ter 1: Ho0 to Cast an I Ching rea2ing

The frame of mind with which you approach the I !hing is a crucial factor in how effective a reading will be. )ometimes people turn to the I !hing when they are feeling anxiety, doubt, and distress. When we are confused and don7t understand why things are going the way they are, it7s easy to feel fear. 'nfortunately, fear thoughts easily take over control of our consciousness and block our intuition when we need it most. In times of confusing change, it is important to take a few moments to af&rm your faith in what7s real honestly and con&dently and to adopt the attitude that everything will work out the way it

is supposed to

whether you understand the reasons or not. If you are feeling overwhelmed by

strong emotions of any kind, you have no choice but to in*uire about your feeling state, and not try to focus on anything else. Wait for a bit, until you can be in a calmer, more objective state of mind. There7s no point in in*uiring about anything unless you can hold onto yourself with some balance. #e as calm, focused, and open as you can be when casting an I !hing reading. The more focused and clear you can be when you are making an in*uiry, the more clearly you will be able to interpret and understand the results. ;erform whatever centering exercise works best for you @ even if its is only taking a few deep breaths @ prior to an I !hing consultation. It is important that you establish an inner state of relaxed concentration Deve5o,ing an I Ching Casting )itua5 Two ways of casting an I !hing reading that have been around for centuries are the yarrow stalk method and the coin toss method. The coins method is much more common in modern times, but whichever casting techni*ue you decide to use +see 3ppendix for the yarrow stalk method,, make sure you set aside enough time +twenty or thirty minutes for the shorter coin toss method,. In that way, you are able to enter into a meditative mindset, with a clear focus on your issue or dilemma, in alignment with an earnest desire for truth and wisdom. (eveloping your own ritual is a great way to set the tone for the most effective I !hing reading. a combination of mental focus and a relaxed open mind.

When it comes to developing a ritual for yourself, be clear about what you hope to achieve. ;ossible goals could be to make an important decision, have a meditation or to reduce stress around changes that are currently taking place in your life. These are not generally the goals of your ego, which tends to obsess on getting things done or making things happen. 3 divination ritual is an intentional process that helps us move the ego out of the way so that we can be receptive to guidance and see more clearly from a broader point of view. In the development of your casting ritual, it is important to factor in what you know and what you are already comfortable with. 1ou may want to draw inspiration from established practices or divination experiences you7ve had. 1ou may feel compelled to create an elaborate procedure using yarrow stalks, or perhaps short and simple is more your style. When creating a meaningful ritual, don7t compare it with the rituals of others, even your ancestors or your inherited religion. (o what you feel guided to do. #e creative. Write down your procedure step by step, and edit it for yourself over time. Trust yourself, but be systematic and consistent. 1ou want to develop a repeatable process that feels meaningful, even if it is novel and uni*ue. The goal is to create a channel between you and the divine wisdom that gives you better reception. 3 divination ritual should begin with a calming &rst step. 2or some, taking a bath is a pleasant way to get centered before you begin. 9editation is always an excellent calming techni*ue, and, in addition to producing a relaxed presence, it supports clear reception by your intuitive sense. Het go of having attachment to any particular answer or outcomeK be committed to caring only about Truth. #y giving the mind a vacation to "vacate$ itself of its usual preoccupations you

increase your receptivity to the synchronicity principle and the archetypes that can expand your consciousness regarding any situation dilemma or decision. )ome people have the time and prefer an elaborate divination ritual that includes a certain time of day, special garments, amulets, or a particular form of chanting. This could include performing the divination in a more traditional, labor intensive way like throwing the 0> yarrow stalks +just as some astrologers report that drawing charts by hand is a ritual that helps them develop a better

sense of a clientNs birth chart,. 2or others, lighting a candle, burning incense or taking a few deep breaths with eyes closed provides a suf&cient state of focused relaxation. !hoose what feels the most comfortable for you. 2ind a way to relax, center yourself and mentally prepare to enter a state of intuitive receptivity. 3nd when you have developed a pattern that works for you, stick with it5 !onsider a special space for spiritual practices including the I !hing. 1our space need not be an elaborate indoor fountain with palm ferns and #uddha statues, but if that feels right and you have the resources, inspiring art can certainly feel supportive. )ome people feel a need for dramatic rituals to help focus their minds away from the mundane tasks of daily life, and toward clarity. %thers, not so much. It is not necessary that your ritual space be used only for I !hing readings in fact, you can close

the door and burn some incense to de&ne a ritual space for yourself no matter where you are. 3n inspirational photo perhaps of an ancient temple, natural landscape or goddess image is a

portable device that you can take with you to support serenity. (o not attach too much meaning to the physical artifacts of your ritual space. The information you receive from a reading comes from within you, and not from the tools you use or the environment. %nce you7ve entered into the proper frame of mind, you can begin consulting the I !hing. !ra(ing 7our Buer& or Su@Cect Would you ask an electrician how to change the transmission fluid in your carO Would you ask a mechanic for stock tipsO %f course not. When you seek advice from a *uali&ed resource, it7s important to ask the right kind of *uestions in order to get information you can trust. In this same way, divination systems like the I !hing are designed to deliver insight, wise advice or a sense of which way the wind is blowing with regard to a situation or dilemma. They are not designed to answer *uestions asking for data, yesJno answers, or to predict the future even though the I

!hing often reveals trend lines and probabilities that flow from the present situation.

3pproach the I !hing as you would a wise counselor or mentor for guidance. 3nd, remember

no

matter how good the advice, you ultimately have to make your own decisions and place your own bets. (ivination is a way to gain perspective on what7s happening in the present moment, to receive new information in the form of insights and timeless wisdom. )o, form your in*uiry with the pursuit of wisdom or advice in mind. The words you select for the subject of your reading are important, because they support your concentration as you perform the ritual. 3sk for guidance, not predictions perhaps using a *uery like "What is the best approach to take in relation to Rsubject those

or personSO$ 3fter you have had a chance to glean tsome gems of insight from a reading thought forms that stimulate new ideas or a broader perspective

then you will be able to make a

more informed decision, knowing that you7ve taken a humble step toward a future that is in alignment with your destiny. That is the best anyone can do. There are two classes of divination *ueries the big picture and the snapshot. #ig picture

*uestions work well when you are not in a speci&c crisis, but are interested in personality traits or trends in your life, or your compatibility with another person. Queries like, ";lease give me a reflection on whatNs happening in my life$ and "I7d like some more information about what is holding me back$ work well in these situations. #eware of overly broad *uestions such as, "What is the meaning of lifeO$ The I !hing was not designed to deliver a philosophical treatise. 3 snapshot type of *uery works best when you are faced with making a decision for a speci&c dilemma +"What information am I missing in considering this choiceO$,, are in need of a new approach +".ow can look at this situation differentlyO$, to a situation or just need some advice about a relationship +"What is the most skillful way to relate to RnameS at this timeO$,. When dealing with an immediate problem, it is best to ask the I !hing about the attitude, method or approach to take rather than for speci&c details about what is going to happen. 3void asking for data like, "Where will I get a jobO$ or "Who is the mate of my dreamsO$ :otice the difference when these issues are rephrasedE "What is the best course of action for &nding a satisfying jobO$

and "What should I look for in a suitable mateO$ If you present appropriate kinds of *ueries, you are more likely to have a satisfying I !hing experience. 3s much as humans may desire to predict the future, divination systems are not able to answer *uestions asking for speci&c data or predictions. What divination experiences can provide are insights for a better sense of direction, along with advice based on timeless wisdom. It is not even necessary to formulate your *uery as a *uestion. 1ou can hold a speci&c subject in mind at the beginning of your divination ritual and write down the name of the situation or person with whom you are in some kind of relationship. The extra clarity of writing down your subject of focus will help to produce a clearer reading. There are important areas of life that present *uandaries that are beyond the ability of logic to resolve. Queries about relationships and love affairs are a common use of the I !hing. %ther areas where logic7s usefulness is limited and divination can be particularly helpful are politics, negotiations, emotional conflicts and all *uestions of timing. 3fter love, career and work related *uestions form the second largest category. Querents may be wondering what is next after losing their jobs, looking for ways to improve their career, or are simply seeking wisdom about their true calling. These *uestions focus on the individual7s connection to the outside world, passion, purpose or vocation. )elf improvement and introspective in*uiries are also common. These topics of concern focus on the individual7s connection to themselves, their goals and dreams, and their personal destiny. )ometimes individuals will ask an oracle about how other people feel or will act. This is an example of the wrong kind of *uery. Bven when you are trying to use the I !hing to in*uire about others, the oracle can only respond to your personal issues such as fear of confrontation,

insecurity, or lack of trust @ rather than being able to reflect anything about another. 3fter all, you are the one tossing the coins5 9ight you be asking about another7s intentions because you7re feeling jealous, afraid, hopeful, or shyO What7s going on with youO 1ou will &nd more meaning by examining the feelings you are dealing with, asking about how to deal with your own dilemmas. If

a friend or loved one is asking you to do a reading for them, lead them to the instructions on (ivination.com or otherwise teach them how consult the I !hing for themselves. Whatever your focus, avoid disrespectful or frivolous *ueries. 3s the ancient sages taught, ")incerity makes for accuracy.$ If you want divination to work for you, you must be sincere in your attitude, approach, and your choice of subject. -emember that the goal of a reading is not to predict the future which remains yours to create primarily through the decisions you make with but to help you understand situations better in order to make but

or without the I !hing7s guidance

better decisions with better timing. If all you get from a reading is one creative new thought the right thought the I !hing has done its job5

Deter(ining 7our He'agra( The coin toss method is easier and faster and, therefore, more commonly used than the yarrow stalk method of casting. .ere7s how you do itE 2ind three identical coins to cast your hexagram. If you are using !hinese coins where there are no obvious heads or tails +at least not obvious to you,, choose for yourself which is heads and which will be tails before you begin, and stick with that decision throughout all your subse*uent I !hing readings using those kind of coins. !opper pennies work &ne. )tay focused on your subject or *uestion when tossing the three coins. 1ou might look at it on paper while you do each toss. .old all three coins loosely in your hands,

shake them briefly, and then gently throw them onto a tabletop or rug. The value of each line is determined by assigning a numerical value of I for heads and of A for tails, then adding the total. )o, if you cast one heads and two tails +ITATA,, your starting line would carry a value of F. !ollect the coins and toss again. (o this a total of six times, recording the numerical values and the corresponding line each time, building two I line trigrams +which combine to form a six line hexagram,. 3lways build your hexagram from the bottom up. The hexagram that you come up with &rst is called the "present hexagram,$ because it represents energies that are in play now, in your current situation with regard to your *uery. There is a .exagram Hookup Table in the Table of !ontents where you can determine which hexagram to go to for your reading. When using the table, the lower trigram +the &rst three lines you drew, are listed along the left and the upper trigram +the last three lines you drew, are across the top of the table. "!hanging lines$ represent a con&guration of yin or yang that is dynamic right now a yin or

yang factor that is now in flux. These changing lines are produced by tossing three heads or three tails +for a numerical value of > or ?, and are marked in the middle of the line with an U +for yin, or >, or an % +for yang, or ?,. #y flipping your changing lines into their opposite state +from yang to yin, and vice versa,, and keeping the non changing lines the same, you can construct a second hexagram, which is known as the "future hexagram.$ 3ny broken lines +yin, marked with an U become the opposite +a solid, or yang, line,, and solid lines marked with an % +yang, flip into broken lines +yin,. 3ll the other lines carry over as the same +i.e., non changing, into the new future hexagram.

If there are no changing lines in the present hexagram, it means that the situation or relationship you in*uired about is not displaying any dynamic changes happening at this time. Ho0 to Inter,ret the Te't 9any people &nd traditional translations of the I !hing stilted or dif&cult to understand. (epending on the translation of this ancient book, the I !hing can come off as patriarchal, even sexist. In composing The 'isionary I Ching, I discovered that reframing what was traditionally referred to as the "<udgment$ section in old versions created a new level of accessibility for modern users. In addition, we removed patriarchal references to "the superior man$ and such and translated military directives to reflect broader aspects of organi8ation and teamwork that are more generally applicable. Whenever you give yourself a reading, be sure to set aside enough time to do it slowly and carefully. 3 rushed reading can cause you to lose focus as well as overlook key elements of a hexagram7s meaning. This doesn7t mean that you should overanaly8e things, however. %ften your &rst instinct the meaning that &rst pops into your head captures the core message or central

truth, new thought or intuitive stimulation that you needed. Too much analysis can create confusion. .ave a pen and paper or voice recorder ready before you begin your reading because it is helpful to take notes. ;utting your I !hing readings into a journal that you can refer back to is also a great idea.

%nce you7ve determined your hexagram, read the text for it including any changing lines that you may have gotten. Interpret all this text in light of the *uery or subject that you presented to the I !hing. 9ake a strong effort to listen to the oracle and avoid jumping to conclusions. It7s even possible that the oracle7s response is about something more pressing than the *uestion you explicitly posed. The &rst time I ever tried the I !hing at the smart aleck age of => it completely ignored my

irreverent *uestion and reflected my intention, which was to make fun of the whole embarrassing process. The response I got was .exagram 0, entitled "1outhful 2olly,$ which is about the "student lacking respect for the teacher.$ The I !hing was making fun of me5 If you &nd that the hexagram you got seems to lack relevance, consider whether +as in my &rst case, your *uery or subject is the wrong kind of *uestion. ;rovided that you did not ask an inappropriate *uestion +i.e., for speci&c data, and so on,, you should &nd relevance in the text of the hexagram and changing lines that you cast, especially in terms of new insights or advice. Bven if all you get is one new idea, that may be all you are supposed to get from a reading right now. #efore beginning a reading, ask yourself whether or not you are ready and willing to see past your ego7s desires or expectations and all the fears that go along with your attachments. 3nswer this *uestion truthfully. Then, after you have completed a reading, if you feel that you were not focused enough, it is perfectly acceptable to cast the coins again. 3fter you have calmed yourself down and entered ritual space, you can trust the sincere receptivity of your intuition as the real channel, and be open to all possibilities. (on7t be too eager to do over a reading that you don7t like or understand. The I !hing7s response may not be what you were hoping to hear, but it could be what you need to hear right now. Co ahead and do another reading for more clarity, but put the &rst one aside to look at in context with fresh eyes later after it has sunk in and when you have more perspective. If the meaning of a take care of some other business and come

reading is not immediately clear, give it some time back to it later.

%ne I !hing user described the perplexing results of a reading he received when asking about his failing marriage. When the meaning of the hexagrams escaped him, he sought deeper levels of meaning. Bvery succeeding layer of depth only brought more confusion. Hater, looking back on the results, he found that the titles of the hexagrams formed an answer to his *uestion one he had

refused to hear because of his emotional attachment to receiving a certain answer and feeling a certain way. %nly with time and reflection was he able to see the true meaning of the hexagrams. This is not uncommon. 3s the I !hing reminds us in so many places, even when it comes to opening up one7s intuition, "perseverance furthers.$

Ackno05e2ge(ents
In =>DD, when I started work on what would be the &rst I !hing software product a multimedia

program for the 9acintosh called &ynchronicity in honor of !arl <ung7s famous principle 88 my Taoist friend and writer !harles <ennings helped me get the ball rolling with a rewrite of my original I !hing text. !onsidering all the tasks involved in producing one of the &rst multimedia programs and the urgency of getting it to market in order to &nance the effort this was a

tremendous help. I am grateful to !harles for doing such a superb job of adhering to my research and speci&cations, capturing the spirit and voice I felt was needed for a new, more accessible and useful I !hing. In the A6 years since our &rst drafts, I have edited and evolved the 'isionary I Ching text until we are now ready to publish it in book form. <oan Harimore7s impressionistic paintings illustrate the elements and energy of each of the ?0 hexagrams in an elegant and beautiful way. I am immensely grateful for how her inspired art has added evocative beauty to our modern I !hing text. :ayana <ennings, editor and producer, has done a yeomanNs job providing invaluable assistance getting this book written, edited, compiled and published by the (ivination 2oundation.

:li6abeth Car5uis graphic artist created a beautiful book cover design and layout based on one of $oans paintings. Cark CcRae of *icily )taly did a great <ob of checking the ) 4hing te3t for congruence !ith the 8ilhelm+Baynes translations. And as usual the meticulous $anice 7ussein F"ocument"riven.comG performed an admirable <ob of proofreading the final manuscript.

*hane OBrien has helped enormously over the years !ith his steady support in terms of helping me run an internet business !hile evolving the Visionary I Ching.

Andrea Adler author of Pushing Upward ++ the true story of a young actressMs initiation into adulthood using the ) 4hing ++ has been a source of strong encouragement for the past %& years.

3 reverential salute goes out to the Taoist sages and !onfucius, who did more to enshrine the I !hing as an eternal classic than anyone. 9assive modern credit is also due -ichard Wilhelm who presented the I !hing to the Western world in the early A6th century, and his friend, !arl <ung, the father of depth psychology, whose research over decades explained and validated the profound meaning and usefulness of the I !hing, as well as how divination works. 3bove all, I want to thank the I !hing for encouraging me in readings to create a modern version of itself &rst, in the form of software, and now a beautifully illustrated book. In general,

whatever success or happiness I have been graced with in this life, I owe in large measure to the spiritual and decision making guidance I have received from the I !hing.

A$$E"DICES A@out the I Ching ArtistD Aoan ari(ore

3ll of the I !hing hexagram illustrations featured in this book were scanned from full color watercolor paintings by artist <oan Harimore. )ome of the original works are still available for purchase directly from <oan, who can be reached at joanlarimoreVyahoo.com. 9s. Harimore has been a student of the I !hing for decades and used the ancient oracle to inspire her art. )he describes her process below. $ach of the BC hexagrams of the I Ching is based on a metaphor created from two elements in the natural world 88 specifically, the eight traditional Chinese elements 88 Hea#en, $arth, the /byss, =ountain, !ire, Lake, ?ind and Thunder and Lightning !rom the meaning I took from each hexagram, I registered the time of day and a particular emotional climate and began to paint I began this series in >uly DEEF It took six and a half years to complete The work was done in synchronistic order 88 throwing the coins in the manner prescribed by the I Ching to determine which hexagrams would be painted next This work has to do with the dynamic sensuality of the natural world in all kinds of weather 5ou could e#en say that the 4cosmic weather6 is what the I Ching is about

7arro0 Sta5k Metho2 of Casting a He'agra(

The ancient method for I !hing casting involves a relatively laborious process involving &fty yarrow stalks. Hike with the coin toss method, this process is repeated six times, with each outcome producing one line of the hexagram. Hike a building, the hexagram is assembled from the ground up. If you wish to use the yarrow stalk method, you don7t have to actually use stalks of the yarrow plant grown on the grave of !onfucius. 1ou can purchase suitable sticks at a craft store, or substitute bamboo stalks, barbe*ue skewers +with sharp points removed,, or thin wooden dowels. In any case they should be of uniform si8e +not much more than one eighth of an inch diameter,,

clean, and roughly ten inches long. #e prepared to spend an hour on the yarrow stalk method of I !hing casting. =. !enter yourself. 2ocus on the *uestion at hand. ;ut an I Ching book or some representation of the I !hing on the floor in front of you. -emove your bundle of 0> stalks from their container and hold them in your hands. A. (ivide the bundle into two similar si8ed bundles +do this randomly, no counting,, and put one bundle on each side of the I Ching. I. 2rom the bundle on the right, remove one stalk and place it above the book. 0. ;ick up the bunch on the left and divide it into bundles of four stalks. The bundle that is left over will have =, A, I, or 0 stalks place them with the single stalk above the I Ching.

L. -epeat step four with the bunch on the right. 3fter adding the &nal bundle to the pile above the I Ching, there should be either L or > stalks. ?. !ollect the bundles on the right and left of the I Ching into one bundle. -epeat step A +divide roughly in half and put the bundles back on either side of the book,. F. -epeat step I. D. -epeat steps 0 and L. :ow there should be >, =I, or =F stalks above the book. >. !ollect the bundles on the right and left of the I Ching into one bundle. -epeat step A +divide roughly in half and put the bundles back on either side of the book,. =6. -epeat step I. ==. -epeat steps 0 and L. :ow there should be a total of =I, =F, A=, or AL stalks in the top pile.

=A. !ollect the bundles on the right and left of the I Ching into one bundle in your hands. +With I? stalks in hand, there should be =I stalks left above the bookK with IA stalks in hand, there should be =F stalks left above the bookK with AD stalks in hand, there should be A= stalks left above the bookK and with AL stalks in hand, there should be A0 stalks left above the book. If you didn7t end up with one of these combinations, you made a mistake and must begin again., =I. !ount the stalks in handK divide by four +I?J0W>K IAJ0WDK ADJ0WFK A0J0W?,. This number corresponds to the bottom line of the hexagram. Write down the &rst line on a piece of paper +remember that the &rst line will be the bottom line of the six,. =0. -epeat all =I steps &ve more times, adding a line on top of the previous ones each time to construct your hexagram. %nce you7ve completed this process ? times, you will have your hexagram.

Historica5 an2 M&tho5ogica5 Origins of the I Ching

The I !hing is the oldest of the classical divination systems. In fact, it is the oldest book in the world in current use. It is thought that the text portion was &rst written before =666 #!. The I !hing7s actual discovery and much of its early history, however, are the stuff of legends. There are a number of myths surrounding the origins of the eight trigrams and the development of the I !hing system. The most famous of these involves 2u .is +ADLA@AFIF #!,, the mythical &rst Bmperor of !hina, who is reputed to be the inventor of writing, &shing and trapping, as well as the discoverer of the I !hing trigrams. In one legend 2u .si is said to have observed a turtle emerging from the 1ellow -iver. Pnowing that true wisdom came from the direct and close observation of nature, he had a sudden reali8ation of the signi&cance of eight symbols he saw on the turtle7s back. .e saw sets of three solid or broken lines which became the I !hing7s trigrams and how they

reflected the movement of energy in life on Barth. 3 similar myth describes 2u .si7s contemplation of other patterns in nature, including other animals, plants, meteorological phenomena and even his own body. These myths describe how he

identi&ed the elements that arose from his understanding of the connectedness of all things, and patterns of change through the interplay of yin and yang. There is evidence of early !hinese divination rituals where tortoise shells were heated over a flame until they cracked, when the emerging patterns +presumably trigrams, were read and interpreted. In some cases the shells were marked with their interpretations and stored for reference, and I have had the privilege of seeing a few of them preserved at the :ational 9useum in Taiwan, !hina. 3nother version also involving tortoise shells describes descendants of the "many 2u$ ancient clan of female diviners an

who read the

shells of live turtles. 3ccording to the legend, they became the *ueens and royalty of the )hang (ynasty which had been considered mythical until

archeological evidence proving its existence was unearthed in =D>>. )ome say Hao T8u, the enlightened forefather of Taoism and the author of the Tao Te !hing, was a descendent of this clan. The TaoistJ!onfucian tradition posits that juxtaposing a set of the possible permutations of yin and yang with the elements of !hinese creation mythology produced the foundation of the I !hing. ;airing up the various combinations of yin +a literal, ancient meaning of which is the shady north side of the hill, and yang +meaning the sunny south side of the hill, gives you four primary symbols. With the addition of another yin or yang line, the eight trigrams emerge. The basic arrangement of the I !hing that has come down to us is attributed to a certain Ping Wen around ==66 #!. Toward the end of the )hang (ynasty, when the unjust emperor Xhou Wang imprisoned Wen, he reportedly used his con&nement to meditate on the trigrams, pairing them up

to produce ?0 possible hexagrams. Bach pair of trigrams took on a meaning speci&c to their combination. In what we might assume was an enlightened state of mind, Ping Wen assigned each of the ?0 hexagrams a name, adding a few sentences to explain their meaning. It is said that his son, Ping Wu, added additional interpretative text, bringing the I !hing closer to its current form. To this day, this se*uence of the ?0 hexagrams is referred to as the Ping Wen )e*uence. !onfucius, who came a few hundred years later, was the I !hing7s greatest patron, taking the interpretative texts to the next level with the addition of extensive commentaries, or "Wings.$ !onfucius was interested in the I !hing as a manual for how to live a life of the highest virtue. 3ccording to his 3nalects +GII, xvi,, !onfucius, who lived to be an old man, is reputed to have said, "If some years were added to my life, I would devote &fty of them to the study of the oracle, and might then avoid committing great errors.$ .istorical evidence substantiates that the 0ook of Changes and its ?0 hexagrams were part of an ancient oral tradition that predates recorded history in !hina. The actual practice of using the hexagrams to refer to speci&c interpretations probably didn7t occur until the &fth century #!. #etween 0FL and AA= #! +known as the Warring )tates period,, the I !hing texts were consolidated into a book to make it easier to consult and share with others during that time of extreme upheaval. )ometime afterward, the I !hing was spared from the !h7in (ynasty7s massive book burning because it was considered one of the &ve "Creat !lassics$ of Taoism. The I !hing we use today is not substantially different from a =?D #! version. The main difference is that the hexagrams appear in a different order. The order in use today was &rst proposed around =66 #!, but was not the standard until the third century 3(. Throughout what we know of !hinese history, the rulers of !hina, as well as the general public, used the I !hing as well as they could before printing was available. In that period the most common method for casting the I !hing was the yarrow stalk method. The best yarrow stalks for this were considered to be the ones that grew on !onfucius7 grave, but this supply was limited5 The introduction of the coins method hundreds of years later solved this problem.

A@out the Author

;aul (. %7#rien developed and published the world7s &rst divination software, an I !hing program known as &ynchronicity in =>D>, and the world7s largest divination websites Tarot.com I!hing.com and

which provided astrology and divination features for 3%H, Coogle, 9y)pace and

other large portals, some ten years later. 3fter selling the online astrology and divination business in A66F, ;aul set up the educational non pro&t (ivination 2oundation + Divination*co(, with a mission to help people and organi8ations make better decisions. The "Gisionary (ecision 9aking$ process relies on developing the receptivity of one7s intuition to the inspiration and guidance drawn from the "collective unconscious$ !hing as the source of "!reative ;ower.$ %7#rien is the author of a book about how divination systems work and what they have been used for throughout history and in modern times *i#ination; &acred Tools for <eading the =ind of <ung7s term for a realm that is characteri8ed by the I

,od 88 and he is currently writing the third book in this trilogy, ,reat *ecisions, "erfect Timing 88 The &e#en "illars of 'isionary *ecision =aking #esides being a non pro&t director and author, he is an inspirational speaker on the topic of decision making and bootstrap entrepreneurism. .e has been host of "athways <adio, a podcast and interview show, which has been focused on personal and cultural transformation for over AD years on P#%%.fm, broadcast throughout %regon and podcast for free via (ivination.com.