Above; thunder and awakening
Below; thunder and awakening

The trigram repeated here, represents the eldest son. He is the one who is likely to take over the leadership with energy and strength. Twice a strong yang line develops below two yin lines. Its energy is pushing forcibly upward. Like thunder which bursts out with a terrifying clap, he movement produces surprise and terror.

Jen portends success. First comes the shock which evokes apprehension and fear. Then, the aftermath is laughter. For a hundred miles around people are terrified. But the sincere worshipper does not let his sacrificial cup and spoon drop.

Thunder indicates success. But the initial terror is followed by happiness. The thunder itself is like what it provokes; shouts and laughter… fearful glee. Those who are a hundred miles away are startled and those who are close at hand are terrified. Nevertheless, someone makes his appearance who can guard the ancestral temple and the shrines of the rural gods. This is one who is fit to preside at the sacrificial ceremonies.

Thunder repeated is the image of Jen. The Superior Man, in fear and trembling, develops his virtues and examines his faults.

Line 1

The thunder clap comes. Oh! Oh!
Laughter and cheer follow. Good fortune.

First comes the shock and the surprise bringing fear and trembling. One finds oneself at a disadvantage. But after the ordeal there is relief. Fear teaches us a lesson from which we can learn to our advantage.

Line 2

Thunder comes closer. Danger is at hand. He loses every one of his possessions and flees into the nine hills. He should not go in search of them. After seven days he will recover them.

On this occasion the shock is so great that one is actually in danger and suffers a crippling loss. At this time resistance to fate is foolish. The only course is to retreat to some isolated spot where the danger cannot penetrate and within a reasonable time all will be well again.

Line 3

Thunder is everywhere, driving one to distraction. Acting impetuously now will bring no misfortune.

When one is overwhelmed by shock, it is easy to lose one’s presence of mind. But there are times when it is wise to act upon the spur of the moment. This is one of those times. Even though the act of impetuosity may bring little advantage, it will certainly do no harm.

Line 4

After the thunderclap the ways are deep in mud.

This is the situation in which shock has produced dazed confusion. One seems to move as if deep in the mire. There is little to do but wait for conditions to improve.

Line 5

Thunder rolls about the heavens. Danger is at hand. With care, nothing is lost. But there are matters for attention.

Successive shocks seem to come from all sides. Nevertheless, by maintaining a position at the centre of the disturbance, one avoids loss and is even able to accomplish something.

Line 6

Thunder brings chaos. People gaze around in terror. Taking action brings misfortune. For though we are not ourselves touched, our neighbours are harmed. No blame, although our nearest speak against us.

When the shock is one suffered by a community, it is enough to keep one’s head and be unaffected by the general fear. To attempt any action at this time would be foolish. Those around one who suffer misfortune as much through their own panic as through the direct effects of the incident, will be quick to accuse and reproach. But the man who keeps his head clear in such a situation will be able to rise above the calumny.

© 1979 Neil Powell

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