Hexagram 53 of 64
Development
漸 · Jiàn
Xun (Wind) · Gen (Mountain)
The Judgment
Kien suggests to us the marriage of a young lady, and the good fortune (attending it). There will be advantage in being firm and correct.
The six lines
Line 1
The first SIX, divided, shows the wild geese gradually approaching the shore. A young officer (in similar circumstances) will be in a position of danger, and be spoken against; but there will be no error.
Line 2
The second SIX, divided, shows the geese gradually approaching the large rocks, where they eat and drink joyfully and at ease. There will be good fortune.
Line 3
The third NINE, undivided, shows them gradually advanced to the dry plains. (It suggests also the idea of) a husband who goes on an expedition from which he does not return, and of a wife who is pregnant, but will not nourish her child. There will be evil. (The case symbolised) might be advantageous in resisting plunderers.
Line 4
The fourth SIX, divided, shows the geese gradually advanced to the trees. They may light on the flat branches. There will be no error.
Line 5
The fifth NINE, undivided, shows the geese gradually advanced to the high mound. (It suggests the idea of) a wife who for three years does not become pregnant; but in the end the natural issue cannot be prevented. There will be good fortune.
Line 6
The sixth NINE, undivided, shows the geese gradually advanced to the large heights (beyond). Their feathers can be used as ornaments. There will be good fortune.
Core themes
- gradual progress
- patience
- right order
- partnership
Classical text: James Legge's translation (1882, public domain), shown in English. Translations are on their way.