Hexagram 24: Return (复卦 / Fù Guà)
Symbolism of Hexagram 24: Return – Earth and Thunder
The hexagram “Return” (复卦 / Fù Guà) consists of two trigrams stacked on top of each other: Zhen (震), representing thunder and movement, is at the bottom, while Kun (坤), representing the earth and receptivity, is at the top. Zhen symbolizes action and movement, while Kun signifies stability and natural flow. When movement is aligned with receptivity, it flows naturally, progressing and retreating with ease.
The symbol of “Return” (复) represents renewal and return, marking a turning point for the birth of new things. The hexagram visually suggests the image of the sun rising from the horizon, with the first line being Yang (阳) and the rest of the lines being Yin (阴), as if the sun begins to rise from the earth.
The hexagram corresponds to the winter solstice (冬至 / dōng zhì), representing the return of the Yang energy after the darkest period of the year. Just as the saying goes, “Winter has come, but spring is not far behind,” this hexagram reflects the resurgence of the Yang forces while the Yin energy diminishes. It signifies that after a long night, the sun rises again, symbolizing the return of vitality and life.
The philosophical message of Hexagram 24 is to embrace the return of things that have been lost or gone astray. The wise will quickly recognize mistakes and return to the right path, ensuring peace and fortune. However, stubbornness and resistance to change will lead to misfortune.
Interpretation of the Hexagram According to Duan Yi Tian Ji (断易天机)
Hexagram 24, with Kun (坤) above and Zhen (震) below, is the first creation of the Kun Palace (坤宫 / Kūn Gōng). The return of Yin and Yang is a cyclical process, suggesting that what has passed may return once more. It symbolizes the endless cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
Interpretation by Shao Yong (邵雍 / Shào Yōng), Song Dynasty
The cycle of repetition brings new life. Success is near, but impatience will lead to failure.
For those receiving this hexagram, it suggests that fortunes are shifting for the better. By going with the flow, your efforts will bear fruit, but avoid acting too hastily.
Interpretation by Fu Peirong (傅佩荣 / Fù Pèi Róng), Renowned Taiwanese Scholar
- Fortune: Good luck is beginning to arrive. Wait patiently for the right time to act.
- Wealth: Temporarily cease buying or selling; profits will come soon.
- Family: Wait until spring to move. Marriages can succeed in early spring.
- Health: Beware of phlegm and fire-related issues; in winter, take precautions.
Traditional Interpretation of Hexagram 24: Return
This hexagram, composed of the trigrams Zhen (震) below and Kun (坤) above, symbolizes the thunder moving within the earth, indicating the natural spring awakening. As the earth begins to stir, new life emerges. This reflects the renewal of the natural world, where energy is building up for a new cycle.
Great Symbol (大象 / Dà Xiàng): Thunder within the earth symbolizes the return of spring, the beginning of a new cycle, and the rejuvenation of all things. It represents a time of new beginnings and growth.
Fortune: This hexagram indicates favorable changes ahead. Things are on track, but progress should be steady. Sudden or impulsive action is not advisable; follow the natural order and success will come.
Career: Having passed through difficult times, you are entering a phase of active progress. However, it is essential to seize opportunities at the right moment and act decisively without rushing. Regular self-reflection and discipline will pave the way for success.
Business: It is a good time to invest boldly, particularly with like-minded partners. Do not be discouraged by setbacks. Explore new markets and expand into unfamiliar territories, but always stick to ethical business practices and proceed step by step for steady profits.
Reputation: The timing for success is approaching. Do not rush to make major moves but continue to build your foundation. When opportunities arise, seize them, and success will follow. Be wary of losing confidence in yourself.
Love and Marriage: Favorable, but do not rush. Be calm and thoughtful in your decisions. A happy family life requires self-discipline and patience.
Decision-Making: You are energetic and lively, but impatience can lead to mistakes. Stay calm, carefully reconsider any errors, and rebuild your career. This is a time to act decisively, adapt quickly, and make practical changes to improve your situation. If an unexpected challenge arises, be prepared to act immediately and retreat if necessary. With perseverance, success is guaranteed.
Philosophical Meaning of the First Line of Hexagram Fù
Text of the First Line:
Initial Nine (初九 / Chū Jiǔ): “Not far from returning, no regret, great auspiciousness.”
Explanation of the Line:
“抵” (dǐ) refers to something great, while “抵悔” (dǐ huǐ) refers to major regret.
This line means that if you have strayed from the right path, you can return before the point of regret, and doing so will bring great success and good fortune.
Interpretation for those who receive this line:
If you’re currently engaged in something, it might be wise to look back and assess whether any mistakes have been made. If so, make corrections promptly—there’s still time to get back on track.
Wisdom to remember with this line:
- Cultivate yourself with steady growth, and success will follow.
- Like a mountain rising in the distance, steady your resolve and rise.
- Like a horse heading northeast, prosperity will come when you adjust your strategies.
- Like fishing in a vast lake, success will come easily when you are patient.
- If you’re traveling through difficult paths, do not forget to look back and reassess your steps.
Transformation of the First Line:
The movement of Initial Nine transforms the hexagram into Hexagram 2: Kun (坤) for Earth (坤为地 / Kūn Wéi Dì). This is a hexagram of the same trigrams (both Kun below and Kun above), representing the Earth’s receptivity. It symbolizes submission to Heaven, carrying and nourishing all things, stretching infinitely. It represents the need to follow the proper course, relying on patience and humility to achieve success. The wisdom of this hexagram teaches that following the right path, like the Earth following the Sun, brings success.
Philosophical Meaning of the Second Line of Hexagram Fù
Text of the Second Line:
Six Two (六二 / Liù Èr): “Rest and return, auspicious.”
Life Lesson:
The second line, being a Yin line in a yielding position, is in a favorable state. After realizing a mistake, the individual does not continue down the wrong path but turns back to the right way. This results in great fortune.
Wisdom from this line:
- A person of virtue is kind to their neighbors, like a fish swimming freely in a river.
- With patience and thoughtfulness, opportunities will arise at the right time.
- Laughter follows sorrow, and following the middle path is the best course.
- Your aspirations are within reach; do not worry or frown.
- When you return to the right path, everything will align.
Transformation of the Second Line:
The movement of Six Two transforms the hexagram into Hexagram 19: Lín (临) for Approach (地泽临 / Dì Zé Lín). This hexagram is formed by the trigrams Kun (坤) for Earth below and Dui (兑) for Lake above. It symbolizes a ruler who governs the land, ensuring harmony and peace within the country. The message of this hexagram is to be close to the people, fostering harmonious relations and ensuring stability.
Philosophical Meaning of the Third Line of Hexagram Fù
Text of the Third Line:
Six Three (六三 / Liù Sān): “Frequent returns, dangerous, no blame.”
Explanation of the Line:
“频” (pín) means frequent or repeated actions. This line suggests that even if you repeatedly make mistakes, as long as you continuously correct them and return to the right path, there may be danger, but no lasting harm will come.
Wisdom from this line:
- Repeated failures can still lead to eventual success.
- Choose the good and persist with it, and no blame will arise.
- When circumstances are cramped and unclear, you may still soar like a bird in the clouds.
- If you are too focused on others’ plans, you may regret it later; stick to what you know best.
- The challenges are numerous, but with patience and reflection, you will find the right path.
Transformation of the Third Line:
The movement of Six Three transforms the hexagram into Hexagram 36: Míng Yí (明夷) for Darkening of the Light(地火明夷 / Dì Huǒ Míng Yí). This hexagram consists of the trigrams Li (离), representing brightness, above, and Kun (坤), representing the Earth, below. It symbolizes a time when the light of the sun is obscured, signifying difficulties, unclear paths, and hidden dangers. It encourages taking a step back, maintaining humility, and preserving your true wisdom in challenging times, allowing your light to shine again when the time is right.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fourth Line of Hexagram Fù
Text of the Fourth Line:
Six Four (六四 / Liù Sì): “Walking in the middle, returning alone.”
Explanation of the Line:
“中行” (zhōng xíng) means walking in the center, and “独” (dú) refers to being alone.
This line suggests that although you were initially walking along the middle path with others, you are now returning alone. If you receive this line, it’s important to carefully reflect on your actions and the people around you. Even if you are the leader or organizer, if you realize a mistake, you must act swiftly and return to the right path, even if others disagree or refuse to follow you. It’s crucial to return on your own, if necessary, regardless of others’ opinions.
Wisdom to remember with this line:
- It’s better to make a wise return than to persist in mistakes.
- Though it may seem like a lonely decision, the return will bring joy and success.
- Do not let doubt stop you, let your resolve guide you back to the right course.
- Even if others are not following, your independent return will lead to a better outcome.
Transformation of the Fourth Line:
The movement of Six Four transforms the hexagram into Hexagram 51: Zhen (震) for Thunder (震为雷 / Zhèn Wéi Léi). This hexagram is formed by two layers of Zhen (震), symbolizing thunder. The resonance of two thunder strikes represents a powerful reaction, capable of shaking off stagnation and bringing about swift changes. It suggests that even when facing unexpected challenges, you will be able to maintain calm and continue forward with strength and resilience. In times of crisis, you should remain vigilant and active, without negligence, handling sudden changes with composure.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fifth Line of Hexagram Fù
Text of the Fifth Line:
Six Five (六五 / Liù Wǔ): “Return with sincerity, no regret.”
Explanation of the Line:
This line means returning to the right path with earnestness and sincerity, and you will not regret this return. If you receive this line, you should focus on self-reflection, recognizing mistakes, and correcting them. Even if you have traveled a long way in the wrong direction, returning is still the right choice, and it will lead to good results.
Wisdom to remember with this line:
- Stand firm, even in the face of challenges, and success will come naturally.
- Like a well-prepared horse traveling thousands of miles, your efforts will bring rewards.
- By returning and correcting your path, everything will be restored, and you will achieve stability and peace.
- After overcoming chaos, peace will return, and danger will turn into safety.
- The waves may be calm, and success will be like a fisherman catching great fish after careful patience.
Transformation of the Fifth Line:
The movement of Six Five transforms the hexagram into Hexagram 3: Shui Lei Zhun (水雷屯), which is also known as Difficulty at the Beginning (水雷屯 / Shuǐ Léi Tún). This hexagram is formed by the trigrams Zhen (震) for thunder below and Kan (坎) for water above. It represents the initial struggles and obstacles that come when starting something new. The message here is that, despite the challenges, persistence and following the right timing will lead to success and flourishing. Even in the face of adversity, following the natural flow will lead to eventual prosperity.
Philosophical Meaning of the Sixth Line of Hexagram Fù
Text of the Sixth Line:
Upper Six (上六 / Shàng Liù): “Lost and returning, ominous, with disaster.”
Explanation of the Line:
This line warns that if you remain attached to your errors and fail to correct your course, disaster will follow. When you realize your mistakes, do not continue down the wrong path. If you persist in your misguided ways, it will bring negative consequences and block future opportunities.
Wisdom to remember with this line:
- When you are lost, return immediately; continuing on the wrong path will lead to trouble.
- The journey is full of uncertainty and hesitation, but returning is the wisest choice.
- Stay mindful of your errors, and do not let confusion lead you astray.
- The path ahead is not clear, and continuing on this uncertain course will only bring disaster.
- Avoid being stuck in stubbornness and change course before it’s too late.
Transformation of the Sixth Line:
The movement of Upper Six transforms the hexagram into Hexagram 27: Shan Lei Yi (山雷颐), known as Nourishment(山雷颐 / Shān Léi Yí). This hexagram consists of the trigrams Zhen (震) for thunder below and Gen (艮) for mountain above. It symbolizes a time of nurturing and strengthening oneself or others, like the Earth nourishing all living things during spring. The message of this hexagram is to cultivate virtues, care for others, and ensure a stable foundation in both material and spiritual aspects. In this phase, external difficulties may exist, but with internal strength and wisdom, stability and success can be achieved.