Waiting

Upper trigram: Water (deep, perilous, flowing) · Lower trigram: Heaven (strong, initiating)

Judgment

Water in the sky: clouds have gathered but the rain has not yet come. This hexagram suggests that waiting need not be passive; it can be a confident preparation. Someone who waits with inner sincerity may also be ready for a hard task, like crossing a great river. Rather than forcing things anxiously, gathering strength and watching the timing is suggested.

Image

Clouds rise up to heaven. In this waiting the noble-minded eat, drink, keep good cheer and hold their strength calmly.

Meaning of the six lines (bottom to top)

1. 1Line 1 (from the bottom)Waiting in the meadow: danger is still far off. Keeping your daily routine and avoiding early alarm may be fitting.
2. 2Line 2 (from the bottom)Waiting on the sand: small gossip may arise. Staying calm turns toward good in the end.
3. 3Line 3 (from the bottom)Waiting in the mud makes you an easy target. Noticing the effect of having moved too hastily and staying careful is suggested.
4. 4Line 4 (from the bottom)Waiting in blood: a hard moment. Instead of resisting, looking for a way to step back out of the pit is worth considering.
5. 5Line 5 (from the bottom)Waiting with wine and food. A peaceful interval can be valuable for renewing strength.
6. 6Line 6 (from the bottom)You enter the pit and three unexpected guests arrive. Welcoming them with respect may bring an unforeseen way out.