Above; Heaven, the creative
Below; Wind, gentleness, penetrating

This hexagram is linked with the fifth month ( June-July), the time of the summer solstice. The first whisper of the darkness of the coming winter is heard, intruding on the days of joy. This is the weak yin line, driven from the top of the preceding hexagram. It furtively and unexpectedly reappears at the bottom. It represents the female principal advancing of its own accord to meet the male. Although it signifies the pleasure of sexual intercourse, it also contains elements of danger.

Coming together, meaning the woman is in power. A marriage in such circumstances would be unfavourable.

The yielding confronts the firm. A marriage with such a woman would not last long. Nevertheless, it is from such an intercourse that heaven and earth give birth to all things. When strength is properly controlled and correctly used, everything in the world goes well. And great indeed is the importance of what is done at the right time indicated by Gou.

The wind is below the heavens, the image of Gou. Accordingly, the prince gives out his orders, proclaiming them to the four quarters of the kingdom.

Line 1

The wheel is checked with a brake of bronze. Righteous persistence brings good fortune. It is not fortunate to have a destination. A lean pig still struggles.

A bad influence must be constantly checked and its ill effects will be avoided. But if the restraints are relaxed, as if allowing a chariot to move forward again toward its destination, only misfortune can result. A pig should be fat and so it must not be allowed to run about however hard it struggles.

Line 2

The fish is in the bag. No error. But it is not for guests.

There is a difference of opinion about the interpretation of this text. The fish can be seen as a wily, untrustworthy influence that must be kept confined. But it can also be a desirable catch that should be shared with others. Not to share would be unwise.

Line 3

His haunches flayed. He walks with difficulty. Mindful of danger he makes no great mistake.

Going forward obstinately, even though one is suffering, is unwise. But the man who knows what he is doing will suffer no misfortune.

Line 4

There is no fish in the bag. Misfortune.

It is necessary to make use of inferior people in furthering one’s aims. The man who does not do so will lose them by his indifference, just when he most needs them.

Line 5

The Medlar leaves shade the melon, hiding its beauty. Then it drops as if from heaven.

The melon on the vine must be shaded with leaves so that it does not ripen too quickly and spoil. The Superior Man protects those below him but does not let them know that they are in his control. The power comes to him like a ripe fruit from the vine.

Line 6

He meets them with his horns. Regrets, but no blame.

This is a man who holds himself aloof from encounters with others, rebuffing their advances from a noble sense of pride. He will be reproached for his aloofness, but he does not care about his contemporaries opinions.

© 1979 Neil Powell

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Hexagram 45

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