Hexagram #53
Jiàn

Development

"A tree on the mountain. Development proceeds gradually. Do not rush."

Upper Trigram
Lake ()
Lower Trigram
Thunder ()

The Judgment

Development. The maiden is given in marriage. Good fortune. Perseverance furthers.

Original Text

女归吉,利贞。

The Image

On the mountain, a tree: The image of Development. Thus the superior man abides in dignity and virtue, in order to improve the mores.

Original Text

山上有木,渐;君子以居贤德,善俗。

Interpretation

The Lines

Line 1

Six at the Beginning初六

"The wild goose gradually draws near the shore. The young son is in danger. There is talk. No blame."

A lonely start is difficult, but persist.

Original: 鸿渐于干,小子厉,有言,无咎。

Line 2

Six at the Place 2六二

"The wild goose gradually draws near the cliff. Eating and drinking in peace and concord. Good fortune."

You have found a safe place. Enjoy it.

Original: 鸿渐于磐,饮食衎衎,吉。

Line 3

Nine at the Place 3九三

"The wild goose gradually draws near the plateau. The man goes forth and does not return. The woman carries a child but does not bring it forth. Misfortune. It furthers one to fight off robbers."

Going against the natural order brings loss.

Original: 鸿渐于陆,夫征不复,妇孕不育,凶,利御寇。

Line 4

Six at the Place 4六四

"The wild goose gradually draws near the tree. Perhaps it will find a flat branch. No blame."

Adaptability allows you to find safety in unlikely places.

Original: 鸿渐于木,或得其桷,无咎。

Line 5

Nine at the Place 5九五

"The wild goose gradually draws near the summit. For three years the woman has no child. In the end nothing can hinder her. Good fortune."

Misunderstandings separate you, but reunion will come.

Original: 鸿渐于陵,妇三岁不孕,终莫之胜,吉。

Line 6

Nine at the Top上九

"The wild goose gradually draws near the cloud heights. Its feathers can be used for the sacred dance. Good fortune."

Your example inspires others even after you are gone.

Original: 鸿渐于陆,其羽可用为仪,吉。