The Philosophical Meaning of Hexagram 16: “Yù Guà” (豫卦)
Hexagram Name:
Léi Dì Yù Guà (雷地豫卦)
This hexagram is composed of Kūn Guà (坤卦) below and Zhèn Guà (震卦) above. Kūn represents the Earth, symbolizing yielding and receptivity, while Zhèn represents thunder, symbolizing movement and action. Thunder emerges in its due season, signaling the return of spring to the earth. The harmonious blend of yielding and movement is the source of joy and happiness. This hexagram, in interaction with Qiān Guà (谦卦), represents a mutual influence. It symbolizes happiness, good fortune, and the idea that we must act in harmony with the right time and circumstances.
Symbolism of the Hexagram:
Léi Dì Yù Guà consists of Zhèn (thunder) above and Kūn (earth) below. The thunder vibrates through the earth, causing the plants to grow and the waters to flow. This is the natural movement of things—life emerging and thriving in the world. The thunder represents the energy of change, while the earth provides the stable foundation for growth. It symbolizes how things move and grow in harmony with the natural world, and how humans must adapt to the times and align their actions with the circumstances. This hexagram teaches that action must be in tune with the season and the flow of events—move with the rhythm of life.
Interpretation of “Duan Yi Tian Ji”:
In Duan Yi Tian Ji (断易天机), this hexagram, with Zhèn above and Kūn below, is considered the first generation hexagram of the Zhèn Palace. The thunder emerging from the earth symbolizes the spring thunder that awakens all living things. It indicates the authority of a ruler over his people, bringing forth auspiciousness for establishing appointments and going to war.
Interpretation by the Song Dynasty Scholar Shao Yong:
Shao Yong, a renowned scholar of the Song Dynasty, interpreted this hexagram as representing joyful harmony that leads to a happy life. While happiness prevails, it also suggests the importance of preparing for adversity in times of tranquility.
Interpretation by Taiwanese Scholar Fu Pei-Rong:
- Fortune: The spring thunder has arrived, bringing good fortune to all things.
- Financial Fortune: New products or goods are introduced to the market, bringing significant profit.
- Family: Praying and offering sacrifices to ancestors will ensure safety and protection for the family.
- Health: Focus on prayer and calmness for peace of mind and good health.
Traditional Interpretation:
This hexagram is an opposing hexagram (with Kūn below and Zhèn above), signifying harmony between yielding and movement. Thunder emerges from the earth, indicating the beginning of a new cycle of life. The earth receives the thunder’s energy and nurtures the growth of all life forms. It teaches us that action must be in harmony with the times, and we should adapt accordingly. The harmonious interaction of these forces is the foundation of joy and success.
The Great Symbol (Dà Xiàng):
The symbol of this hexagram depicts thunder emerging from the earth, a metaphor for the vital energy of life breaking forth. This symbolizes springtime, when everything is full of vitality, and nature is rejuvenating. It teaches that vitality, driven by the rhythm of life, will bring growth and prosperity.
Fortune Analysis:
- General Outlook: Things will go smoothly, and there will be help from elders. However, one should be cautious about indulgence in pleasures and avoid excessive distractions.
- Career: This is a time of great prosperity and success, but one must remain realistic and continue working hard. Avoid becoming complacent, as this can lead to downfall. Always keep a sense of prudence and focus to ensure continued success.
- Business: The right moment has arrived to take bold actions. Even if there are setbacks, you will be able to turn them around quickly. Strong cooperation with others will lead to greater success.
- Reputation: You have great potential, and if you uphold integrity and work diligently, you will achieve remarkable success. Avoid arrogance or becoming complacent with past accomplishments.
- Marriage and Relationships: Relationships will be smooth and harmonious. However, do not take them for granted. If you misuse feelings or play with emotions, it will lead to tragedy.
- Decision Making: Life will be generally smooth, and your efforts will bring success, but it requires continuous hard work and focus. Do not succumb to comfort or idle enjoyment. A generous, open-minded attitude will lead to good health and longevity. In times of adversity, stay true to your principles, remain vigilant, and turn crisis into opportunity.
Concluding Thought:
The Yù Guà (豫卦) represents joy, vitality, and success through harmonizing with the times. It teaches that we must adapt to the natural flow of life, whether in our careers, relationships, or personal growth. Moving with the rhythm of the universe, while maintaining focus and integrity, will lead to good fortune and prosperity.
Philosophical Meaning of the First Line of Hexagram Yù
Line Text:
Chū Liù (初六): Míng Yù, xiōng (鸣豫，凶)
Translation of Line Text:
Míng: To express or announce. “Míng Yù” suggests a sense of being overly pleased with oneself.
This line indicates that one may become too self-satisfied and overly joyful, leading to eventual misfortune or danger due to such excess.
The first line of Yù Guà (豫卦) is positioned at the bottom of the hexagram, lacking significant status. However, because it aligns with Jiǔ Sì (九四), it receives some leadership “attention” within the hexagram, which causes one to feel pleased and satisfied.
Interpretation of the First Line:
The line suggests that excessive self-satisfaction and arrogance, even in small matters, will eventually lead to negative consequences. It warns against excessive pride, which could lead to downfall or misfortune.
For those who receive this line in a reading:
Remember:
- Speaking too much can lead to misfortune and trouble.
- If you gain favor, don’t forget that humility is key to maintaining it. Beware of those who may try to undermine you or invade your privacy.
- A loud thunder may shake the earth, but the resulting joy may be fleeting and dangerous.
- At the extreme, this attitude can lead to misery and isolation.
- There is a dreamlike quality to your actions, where the illusions of success or happiness are like a moon reflected in the water—there’s no substance behind it.
Change to the Hexagram:
When the first line changes, it becomes Hexagram 51: Zhèn wéi Léi (震为雷), which symbolizes thunder. This is a same hexagram (with Zhèn above and Zhèn below), showing a double thunder. The powerful vibrations of thunder disrupt the stillness, clearing away the stagnant air, making it easier to reach success. It represents that while a loud impact can disrupt the environment, it can also bring new clarity and direction. This suggests the need to stay alert and cautious, but when facing unexpected situations, maintaining calmness and wisdom will lead to good outcomes.
Philosophical Meaning of the Second Line of Hexagram Yù
Line Text:
Liù Èr (六二): Jiè yú shí, bù zhōng rì, zhēn jí (介于石，不终日，贞吉)
Translation of Line Text:
Jiè yú shí: Refers to the uprightness of one’s character, as solid and unshakeable as a stone.
Bù zhōng rì: Refers to not lingering in any state for too long, not allowing complacency or indulgence.
The line indicates that by maintaining integrity, like a stone, and not overindulging, one can remain firm and ultimately receive good fortune.
This line suggests that maintaining a strong sense of righteousness and integrity, while avoiding excess and indulgence, will lead to happiness and fortune.
Interpretation of the Second Line:
One must remain steadfast in morality, like a solid stone, and avoid overindulgence or procrastination. By keeping a balanced approach to life, avoiding excess, and adhering to the right path, good fortune will follow.
For those who receive this line in a reading:
Remember:
- Stay firm in your integrity, and you’ll meet noble people or mentors along the way.
- Those with good fortune often speak clearly and are direct, much like the bright moon rising in the sky.
- Like chiseling stone to find jade, patience and persistence bring valuable results.
- The right path may not always be obvious, but staying true will lead to success without struggle.
Change to the Hexagram:
When the second line changes, it becomes Hexagram 40: Léi Shuǐ Jiě (雷水解). This is a different hexagram (with Kǎn below and Zhèn above), indicating the combination of thunder and water. Water, representing danger and obstacles, moves as thunder strikes, breaking the tension and clearing away obstacles. This suggests that a time of release is coming—once obstacles are cleared, new growth will emerge, and problems will resolve naturally.
Philosophical Meaning of the Third Line of Hexagram Yù
Line Text:
Liù Sān (六三): Xū Yù huǐ; chí yǒu huǐ (盱豫悔；迟有悔)
Translation of Line Text:
Xū: Refers to the act of staring or gazing into the distance, which here suggests hesitation.
Chí: Means to delay or procrastinate.
The line means that indulging in pleasure without thinking deeply or hesitating in the midst of happiness will inevitably lead to regret.
This line teaches that hesitation or indulging in fleeting pleasures without deep thought will result in regret. The happiness of the moment is often followed by disappointment due to a lack of foresight.
Interpretation of the Third Line:
One should be cautious about indulging in pleasure or delaying actions during times of contentment, as these habits will lead to regrets. Decisions should be made with clarity, avoiding hesitation or doubts.
For those who receive this line in a reading:
Remember:
- If you hesitate or are indecisive, things may not go as planned. Act quickly and change your course if necessary.
- Do not cling to false hopes or be slow to act, as this will bring regret.
- Major issues require swift action, without overthinking. Trust your instincts and act decisively.
- External distractions (such as flattery or praise) may lead you astray, so remain cautious and vigilant.
- Opportunity can come swiftly, like the wind blowing through the trees or a horse galloping eastward—when it arrives, act with confidence.
Change to the Hexagram:
When the third line changes, it becomes Hexagram 62: Léi Shān Xiǎo Guò (雷山小过), which symbolizes small overstepping. This hexagram represents caution—two forces of thunder meet on the mountain, causing a small disturbance. The energy is still great, but it is not as intense. The metaphor suggests that small errors or slight miscalculations can lead to problems if not corrected early. Therefore, caution is needed to avoid bigger mistakes.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fourth Line of Hexagram Yù
Line Text:
Jiǔ Sì (九四): Yóu Yù, dà yǒu dé; wù yí, péng hé zān (由豫，大有得；勿疑，朋盍簪)
Translation of Line Text:
Yóu: Refers to the origin or reason behind something.
Péng: Refers to friends or companions, those who are similar in nature.
Hé: Means “to gather” or “to come together.”
Zān: Refers to a traditional hairpin used by ancient people to fix their hair, symbolizing unity or gathering.
This line indicates that due to Jiǔ Sì, joy and fulfillment are gained, and there is no doubt that one’s friends or companions will gather around, just as strands of hair come together at the hairpin.
In the context of Yù Guà (豫卦), Jiǔ Sì is the only yang (positive) line. Other yin (negative) lines surround it, and because it is the only active line, it attracts the attention and support of friends. This line brings energy, life, and joy to those around it. However, since Jiǔ Wǔ (九五), the ruler’s position, is also within the hexagram, Jiǔ Sì must treat it with utmost respect and sincerity to avoid suspicion. Only in this way will there be harmony between the upper and lower lines.
Interpretation of the Fourth Line:
The fourth line suggests that one will receive support and happiness through social connections and friendships. These friendships are naturally formed and should be nurtured with care and sincerity, as this will lead to success. It is important to remain humble and avoid arrogance, especially when in a position of influence.
For those who receive this line in a reading:
Remember:
- Good fortune and success come when you gather trustworthy people around you.
- Your friends or companions will support you, and opportunities will open up.
- If you act with sincerity, your reputation will rise and your name will spread.
- Those who are honest and true to themselves will see their success grow.
- It is time to expand your network and work together with others to achieve great things.
- The work you put in now will yield abundant rewards, like fishing with a long hook, bringing in great catches.
- Success is within reach, and the future holds much promise.
Change to the Hexagram:
When the fourth line changes, it becomes Hexagram 2: Kūn wéi Dì (坤为地), which is a same hexagram (with Kūn below and Kūn above), symbolizing earth and yielding. The hexagram reflects the idea of submission and nurturing, much like the earth which supports and nourishes all things. It represents a time when success comes through yielding and following the natural course, which can only be achieved by staying humble, understanding the flow of events, and adjusting to the needs of the moment.
Philosophical Meaning of the Fifth Line of Hexagram Yù
Line Text:
Liù Wǔ (六五): Zhēn jí, héng bù sǐ (贞疾，恒不死)
Translation of Line Text:
Jí: Refers to illness or suffering.
Héng: Refers to something enduring, constant, or persistent.
This line indicates that one may face challenges or difficulties, but they will not lead to a complete downfall. It suggests resilience in the face of adversity.
Interpretation of the Fifth Line:
This line represents a period where, although there may be illness or struggles, these difficulties will not lead to death or total failure. The key to overcoming this challenge is endurance and persistence. The Liù Wǔ (六五) position is traditionally seen as the ruler’s position, but it is a yin (negative) line, indicating that the power is not fully manifested. While not the most dominant, it remains in a central position and brings stability. This line suggests that with care and diligence, one can maintain peace and avoid harm.
For those who receive this line in a reading:
Remember:
- The position you hold may not give you full control, but you have the capacity to endure.
- There will be challenges, but if you remain steady and composed, you will not succumb to them.
- In times of hardship, patience and resilience are essential.
- Sometimes, you may feel isolated, like fishing alone in cold waters, but perseverance will eventually bring rewards.
- Even if times are difficult, there is always a way forward if you do not give in to fear or despair.
- Keep your focus on your long-term goals, and do not be distracted by transient setbacks.
Change to the Hexagram:
When the fifth line changes, it becomes Hexagram 45: Zé Dì Cuì (泽地萃). This is a different hexagram (with Kūn below and Duì above), symbolizing gathering. It reflects a time when cooperation and unity are essential for success. The line suggests that people must come together, combining their strengths, to overcome challenges. The more harmonious and cooperative the group, the more likely they are to reach their goal. Flexibility and adaptability are key during this time.
Philosophical Meaning of the Sixth Line of Hexagram Yù
Line Text:
Shàng Liù (上六): Míng Yù chéng, yǒu yú wú jiù (冥豫成，有渝无咎)
Translation of Line Text:
Míng: Refers to darkness or confusion.
Chéng: Refers to completion or finalization.
Yú: Means to change or deviate.
This line suggests that one may be lost in confusion or excessive joy, unable to see things clearly. However, if one can awaken and change course in time, there will be no harm.
Interpretation of the Sixth Line:
The sixth line represents the culmination of the hexagram, where extreme joy or satisfaction has led to a state of confusion. It warns that excessive indulgence or complacency can lead to dangerous situations. However, if one realizes their mistake and changes course, the potential for disaster can be avoided.
For those who receive this line in a reading:
Remember:
- At the peak of success or joy, do not become complacent or confused.
- There is always a danger when one becomes too satisfied, leading to a loss of clarity.
- If you sense that things are going astray, it’s not too late to adjust your approach and avoid disaster.
- Moments of darkness or uncertainty can often be followed by renewal, like the light breaking through the clouds.
- Stay alert, and be prepared to change your course if necessary to avoid negative outcomes.
Change to the Hexagram:
When the sixth line changes, it becomes Hexagram 35: Huǒ Dì Jìn (火地晋). This is a different hexagram (with Kūn below and Lí above), symbolizing progress and brightness. It reflects a time when success is assured through clarity and forward movement, just as the sun rises to illuminate the earth. The energy is full of vitality, and everything is progressing smoothly. This suggests that once clarity is gained, it will lead to substantial achievements and positive growth.