The Meaning of Hexagram 19 in the I Ching

Hexagram 19: Approach

Hexagram 19, known as Lin (臨) in Chinese, represents the principle of approach and advancement. This hexagram is composed of the earth trigram above and the lake trigram below, creating an image of a lake drawing near to the earth, symbolizing how higher elements approach lower ones with nurturing influence.

Trigram Analysis

The upper trigram is Earth (☷), composed of three broken lines, representing receptivity, nurturing, and support. The lower trigram is Lake (☱), composed of one broken line between two solid lines, representing joy, openness, and reflection.

When these trigrams combine, they create a powerful metaphor for beneficial approach. Earth's nurturing nature above lake's joyful reflection suggests how approach should be both supportive and welcome. This combination points to the importance of proper timing and attitude in drawing near.

Symbolic Representations

In nature, Hexagram 19 corresponds to the eighth month of the lunar year, when winter approaches but has not yet arrived. This seasonal metaphor represents the anticipation and preparation that comes with approaching change.

The hexagram also represents the wise leader who approaches others with proper attitude and timing. This human dimension emphasizes the importance of respect and consideration when drawing near to others or to new situations.

Core Meanings and Attributes

The essence of Hexagram 19 is the art of proper approach. This manifests as:

The wisdom of proper timing. The importance of respectful attitude. The need for careful preparation. The value of gradual advancement. The power of appropriate approach.

These attributes combine to create a powerful symbol of beneficial approach. The hexagram suggests a time when drawing near with proper attitude leads to success.

Line Meanings

Each line in Hexagram 19 represents a different aspect of approach:

The first line shows joint approach, suggesting the importance of harmony in initial stages.

The second line indicates approach bringing good fortune, representing the benefits of proper timing and attitude.

The third line shows comfortable approach, warning against becoming too casual or presumptuous.

The fourth line demonstrates complete approach, indicating the importance of thoroughness and sincerity.

The fifth line shows wise approach, representing the benefits of intelligence and understanding in approaching.

The sixth line warns about generous approach, suggesting the need for discretion even in favorable circumstances.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Hexagram 19 often appears when there is a need for careful advancement or approach. It suggests a time when proper timing and attitude are crucial. The hexagram encourages:

Approaching with respect. Maintaining proper timing. Preparing carefully. Advancing gradually. Creating beneficial connections.

Relationships with Other Hexagrams

Hexagram 19 has a special relationship with Hexagram 20 (Contemplation), as they represent complementary aspects of interaction. While Hexagram 19 focuses on approach and advancement, Hexagram 20 deals with observation and overview.

The hexagram also relates to others that share its trigrams or themes of approach and timing, providing context for understanding different aspects of drawing near.

Modern Interpretation

In contemporary usage, Hexagram 19 often appears in situations requiring careful approach, advancement, or new beginnings. It can indicate:

A time for careful advancement. The need for proper preparation. An opportunity for connection. The importance of timing. A reminder to maintain respect.

Meditative Implications

As a meditation focus, Hexagram 19 offers insights into the nature of approach and advancement. It invites contemplation of:

The proper way of drawing near. The role of timing in approach. The balance of respect and confidence. The relationship between approach and reception. The path of beneficial advancement.

Historical Context

In traditional Chinese thought, Hexagram 19 was associated with the concept of proper leadership and influence. This connection emphasizes its relevance to both personal relationships and social advancement.

The hexagram was also linked to the importance of maintaining proper respect and timing in approach, highlighting how careful consideration leads to successful advancement.

Summary

Hexagram 19 represents the principle of approach and advancement, manifesting as the wisdom of proper timing and respectful attitude. Its combination of earth and lake trigrams creates a powerful image of nurturing approach, while its line meanings offer guidance on navigating various aspects of drawing near.

Understanding this hexagram provides insights into the nature of approach and the proper way of advancement, while its practical applications offer guidance for contemporary situations requiring careful timing and respectful attitude. Whether appearing in divination or serving as a focus for meditation, Hexagram 19 reminds us that successful approach depends on both proper timing and appropriate attitude.

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Next Hexagram: Hexagram 20.

Previous Hexagram: Hexagram 18.