The Marrying Maiden

Upper trigram: Thunder (arousing, stirring) · Lower trigram: Lake (joyous, sharing)

Judgment

Thunder above the lake: excitement and joy together, yet the desire that starts the movement is undirected. This hexagram describes the difficulties that arise in relationships and ventures when order, position and timing are overlooked. Advancing while knowing your place and taking care with timing is suggested. A step taken in eagerness may not last unless supported by order and sincerity.

Image

Thunder over the lake: the marrying maiden. The noble-minded grasp the permanence of the end and understand the causes of what is transient.

Meaning of the six lines (bottom to top)

1. 1Line 1 (from the bottom)Entering a union from a secondary position: limping yet able to walk. Knowing your own limited place helps the advance.
2. 2Line 2 (from the bottom)Seeing even with one eye is possible. Staying quiet and steady, like one withdrawn, is beneficial.
3. 3Line 3 (from the bottom)The maiden marries as a servant, then returns. A step taken at the wrong time and in the wrong conditions can be taken back.
4. 4Line 4 (from the bottom)The marriage is delayed: a late one is worth waiting for. Waiting for the time to be right is not empty.
5. 5Line 5 (from the bottom)The sovereign gives his daughter: her sleeves are less ornate than her handmaid’s. The moon is almost full, good; sincerity is worth more than display.
6. 6Line 6 (from the bottom)She holds the basket but there is no fruit; he slaughters the sheep but no blood flows. Empty ceremonies show an absence of sincerity; nothing is favorable.