Joy: Double Your Pleasure

Joy shows Tui, the Lake, Joy, doubled. There are no changing lines. Usually no changing lines means self-examination is needed to discover what hindrances or blockages prevent you from experiencing the best energy available now during the time of Joy. That sounds OK to me -- bring it on!

Influence: A Day Of Empty Chatter!

Influence shows the Mountain, Ken, under the Lake, Tui. It is the meeting of the youngest son and youngest daughter. Influence is like going out on a date, meeting someone new. It is a weak and impermanent force.

The sixth line changing shows a weak line in a weak place trying to influence others by chattering. It has no force or substance behind its empty words. Thus neither good nor bad fortune is implied from such an inconsequential force.

Retreat results. It shows Heaven rising up and mounting away from the Mountain.

Pushing Upward To Preponderance Of The Small

Pushing Upward shows the tree, or more likely an acorn or seed, that is pushing upward through the Earth. It is a time of advancement.

The second line tells us that if we are sincere even a humble or small offering brings good fortune. The fifth line shows that our work will be rewarded with praise and fame that lasts beyond time.

Preponderance Of The Small results; it is the inverse of yesterday's Inner Truth. Imagery of birds predominates and a message can be expected to come on wings. It generally recommends giving preponderance in our behavior to thrift, humility and mourning. This hexagram speaks well to our time.

Holding Together To Natural Response: Ask Again; Inner Truth

Holding Together is the reverse of Possession In Great Measure, from yesterday. Here, one solitary strong line holds five weak, evil lines together. It is an inherently weaker position. The image suggests a comb holding hair together. The fifth line shows the ruler hunting -- beaters were used on three sides; the game that came in to view was fairly taken; the game also had a chance to escape from the fourth side where there was no beater. The idea here is that we hold together with those who freely choose our company and let those who do not desire our company to depart.

Inner Truth is the Great Li formed by doubling each line of Li: two strong, two weak then two strong at the top. It indicates dependability. Inner Truth says that criminal cases should be discussed to delay executions. This hexagram indicates a time when we have built up inner truth to such a degree that we can move pigs and fishes, that is, lower life forms, including our own animal nature. The fifth line, which shows a cock crowing to heaven, indicates misfortune. The cock wants to fly up to heaven but is stuck on earth. Everyone hears its cries and that draws misfortune to it. To avoid misfortune, silence would be best.

The Creative To Possession In Great Measure

(Yet another recent divination suggestive of financial gain -- there are, of course, additional meanings of a more spiritual nature, such as that the higher self needs to assist a struggling lower self, which can be accomplished by 'dispensing wealth downward.')

The Creative is the most powerful hexagram. It is the source of the life energy and all that moves the individual beings in the universe.

Here, the fifth line, which is also the ruler, reads: 'flying dragon in the heavens; it furthers one to see the great man.' A dragon flying in heaven is seen by all creatures. It indicates that our power has reached a stage that we confer with heavenly beings and can help all who encounter us.

Possession In Great Measure shows Fire, Li, in Heaven, Ch'ien. Fire in Heaven, like a meteor shooting across the sky, is highly visible. Supreme success is indicated, the most positive judgement given in the I Ching. It shows the union of clarity and power. The weak fifth line is able to hold the tremendous power of the other five strong lines due to its modesty.

The Family: Balanced Income And Expenses Brings Good Fortune

The Family 37 shows Wind, above, coming forth from Fire, below. It is a simple hexagram that recommends following the character of a well-run and ordered family. In this way, good fortune is indicated. The fourth line changing indicates that a balance between income and expenditures brings good fortune to the family.

Fellowship With Men 13 is the result. It shows someone leaving the family and entering the broader social world where they find people of like feeling and friendship. The image shows a campfire flaming up toward heaven.

Peace: Heaven On Earth

Peace 11 shows Heaven on Earth. It is one of the most positive hexagrams in the I Ching. It represents a time when those with riches disperse them to those who need them. The fourth line shows that a rich, superior person flutters down to join those below in a modest way because of inner ties between them, there is trust so the superior person can have confidence in his actions. The fifth line also shows the rich, superior man, here giving his daughter, a princess, to someone of lower rank to marry. The ruler instructs his daughter not to be conceited or troublesome but to listen and follow the husband -- she gets no privileges due to her status as a princess in her husband's home.

Breakthrough 43 shows the Lake risen up to Heaven. It indicates that speech, a symbol of the Lake, must be given in the court of the king. It also indicates that it is a time when the good can have justice over the evil. A contrary part of this hexagram's meaning indicates that the time is dangerous just as a cloud heavy with water can drown the land below if not dispersed gently. This event is applied to the rich man who must dispense his wealth to others to prevent evil from occurring.

Retreat To The Flying Bird: To Abandon The World Or Stay And Fight -- Either Choice Is OK

Modesty, the last divination prior to my break, was a good place to end. It meant hidden power -- not posting more divination blogs is in a way to hide my power, at any rate. Today's divination is in some ways the opposite of Modesty. Whereas Modesty indicates hidden power and humility, Retreat indicates the desire and yearning of the Earth for Heaven -- an impossible, unquenchable and extravagant desire. On another level, it indicates the action of Heaven when evil, the two lower lines, mount upward: Heaven retreats beyond the reach of the Earth. Heaven cannot be reached from the Earth; reaching the highest earthly summit still leaves one on Earth. Only those under the sway of delusion think that they can buy a stairway to Heaven.

Retreat shows a time when, as mentioned above, evil mounts upward. The superior man, that is anyone who studies the Changes, sees the character of the time and withdraws strategically. Retreat comes easily in this case because it can be done, as in the fifth line, cheerfully and in the case of the sixth line, very easily because there is no inner attachment to the evil lower lines.

The resulting hexagram is 'Preponderance of the Small' or 'The Flying Bird.' This hexagram shows an exceptional time when our way to influence the world is weakened but we possess reserves of inner strength. Caution, thrift and correct feeling for others is the recommended attitude. A bird may bring a message.

Preponderance Of The Small: Extreme Caution Today

Preponderance Of The Small 62 shows Thunder, Chen, on the Mountain, Ken. It recommends generally reverence, bereavement and thrift, as appropriate, in one's dealings with the world. It is a time when only small things can be done -- no big matters should be begun. At this time humility is rewarded. Kind of like in Slum Dog Millionaire.

The fourth line changing says to use extreme caution to avoid difficulties.

Modesty or Humility 16 is the resulting hexagram. It shows the Mountain hidden under the Earth.

Increase: Love Of The Good Brings Others To Help; Withdrawal Leads To Misfotune

Increase shows how someone with a lot of possessions can increase others by sharing them. This is a meritorious thing to do.

The second line says that one is possessed of such strength of character that no number of divinations can oppose the assistance you receive. The sixth line show someone who has withdrawn from the world and does not try to increase others. This behavior is contrary to the character of the time and leads to attack and misfortune. It is very important to do what you can to help others.

Limitation 60 results, showing the limits that seasons and other cyclical phenomenon place on time and also has the image of fences that define and limit space.

Holding Together Again! What Is The Message? Combo Of Listening To Inner, Higher Guidance and Humility?

Holding Together 8 was obtained again today. See the two recent readings below. When the same hexagram comes up repeatedly, there is an important message that I haven't gotten yet. When I do, I will certainly share it. The general meaning of this hexagram is that the strong fifth line is able to hold the other lines with it -- the weak lines can obtain what they need from this strong line. Due to their nature and relationships with the fifth line, only the first, second and fourth lines are able to benefit.

The first line, also obtained recently, indicates that despite its lack of relationship to the fifth line, it receives help nonetheless because of its humility and good character. The second line has the relationship of correspondence to the fifth line. Thus it receives help directly and openly. The line says that the nature of this help is a kind of inner guidance from a higher authority. You need to stay true to this inner light or guide to achieve the most good.

The resulting hexagram is Limitation 60 indicating the limitation of the seasons and calendar on time. It counsels not to persevere in galling limitation. That means if you are in an untenable situation where severe limitations cause shame or humiliation, you need to take action to leave that situation. The trigrams show joyfulness in passing through danger, which is a guide to the nature of the time and how to pass through it.

Innocence: Misfortune Comes From Pushing Ahead When Timing Is Off

Innocence 25 shows Chen, the eldest son and movement, within and Ch'ien, the father and Heaven, without. It indicates a time when sincerity is important to have good fortune. If someone is false, they will have misfortune. So examine your attitude if you are able.

The sixth line indicates misfortune that comes because we try to force matters -- we are at a time when progress can no longer be made and we need to wait quietly for times to change to avoid misfortune. This line indicates that it may be hard to prevent oneself from acting inappropriately.

Following 17 results indicating joy in movement. It says to stay indoors and rest at nightfall. It also says that to have others follow you requires that you be adaptable and capable of following others.

Holding Together Again! This Time Leading To Duration

Holding Together 8 was received yesterday, too! That must mean it is of extra importance. Holding Together, like all hexagrams, has many meanings, which is part of what makes the I Ching confusing at first glance. Take the sword and slice away until something fits, I say. That is also why even though I am doing this small act in West Hollywood, it could apply to most anyone in any situation. At least that is my intention. Anyway, this hexagram speaks generally of knowing and holding on to those social connections that give richness and meaning to life. It also speaks of problems that arise from holding on to relationships that are wrong for us, forgoing the good fortune of better society, and of missing our opportunity to hold together.

The first line only is changing today. Without looking it up, I would surmise it is not fortunate like the second, fourth and fifth lines. It is weak in a strong place which would give it some moderation. But it comes too soon and is not connected to the fifth line that is the only one capable of bestowing the necessary resources. Well I looked it up and I am not too far off the mark -- however, the predominant meaning comes from the moderation spoken of above. This line represents truth, loyalty and sincerity that in its humble, lowly position has the strength to attract good fortune from without. Moderation and humility allow this line to attract good fortune even when there are no inner ties to one so disposed to help as the second and fourth lines suggest.

The resulting hexagram is Duration 32. It shows a solid, long lasting relationship, like a marriage, that endures stormy weather. Bad weather is suggested by Thunder below and Water above.

Holding Together Leads To Temptation

Holding Together 8 shows one strong line in the fifth position with five other weak lines around it. It is compared to a comb that when used hold the hairs together. The five weak lines have different qualities of holding together with the strong person in the fifth position. This hexagram speaks of the importance of holding together at the right time. If one waits past the time for holding together misfortune comes.

Today the second, third, fourth and sixth lines change. The second and fourth line have inner ties to the fifth line and receive the help and good fortune the fifth line is able to give. The third line has misfortune because it holds to another weak line instead of the fifth line that has the power to give it what it wants. The sixth line has missed the time for holding together with the fifth line and receives the misfortune mentioned in the judgment.

Temptation or Coming To Meet is the result. It shows a weak evil line entering from below that takes power over everything if indulged.

Today's hexagram seems to mirror the news regarding the health care plan in Congress. AHIP is not holding together, for whatever reason, while others like Jane at firedoglake indicate marshaling together, holding together, of progressives.

Fire or The Clinging: Rebirth Leads To Supreme Good Fortune

Fire or The Clinging 30 shows Li, the sun, fire and clarity, doubled. It refers to day succeeding day and I believe refers to reincarnation. The judgement says that 'the bright rises twice.' The hexagram also speaks of caring for cows. Cows are a symbol of docility and the meaning here is that be following the guidance of nature we are able to find our place in the world.

The second line indicates the supreme good fortune of yellow light. This line refers to the noonday sun. Yellow is the Chinese color symbol for adhering to the mean. Following the mean was considered the highest good. The ancient Greeks also highly praised following a life of moderation. It indicates that a period of the highest in culture.

Possession in Great Measure 14 is the resulting hexagram. It shows the sun high in the sky. It indicates financial good fortune. Perhaps buy a lottery ticket today? Or perhaps financial matters take a turn for great improvement. On SNL last night, Barack Obama won the Powerball lottery after buying his first

ticket! Coincidence?

Following: Keep Inner Firmness, Give Up Immature Ways

Following shows Chen, movement, under Tui, joyousness. These trigrams refer to the sunset and sunrise with nighttime in between. It also refers to the dark time of the year, the period of time between the fall and spring equinoxes -- where we have been since the third week of September. It recommends rest and following natural impulses. It also refers to the invention of the wheeled cart which when yoked to an ox allowed for distant travel and communication. It says we could attract a following among our social circle and to do that requires we follow natural rules appropriate to us.

The third line says that to secure the allegiance of a strong man it is necessary to let go of the boy. What is meant is that we have a choice to follow a path towards maturity and strength or that of childish immaturity. I think most people would want to get on with life. The strong one ahead of us has the power to give us what we seek. Letting go of the boy below is necessary to obtain what we seek. What is essential is to stay on our path and not deviate from it.

Revolution results. This hexagram refers to the revolution of the seasons and other cyclic changes as well as political revolution. This is a time when what is worn out, useless or outmoded can be discarded. Maybe clean out a closet?

Temptations Kept In Check Lead To The Creative

Temptation or Coming to Meet 44 shows Ch'ien, heaven, strength and the creative, above and Sun, wind, gentleness and wood, below. There is one weak line at the first place with five strong lines above it. The strong lines see this small weak line below and are tempted not to take it seriously and indulge it. If they do this, the weak line can take their power from them.

The first weak line indicates the source of the temptation. Because it is at the beginning, its true nature is more clearly seen, and there is an opportunity to take the necessary action thereby preventing the empowerment of evil. By taking corrective action right away, the evil power is starved. It is not destroyed, however, and if fed will become strong and cause harm.

The Creative 1 is the resulting hexagram. It shows Ch'ien, heaven, doubled and is composed of six strong lines. It is a time of great strength when much can be accomplished. Dispense with distractions. You may find yourself at the center of attention or the leader of your peers.

It is easy to indulge desires for war and conquest and hard to find peace. Indulging in baser instincts leads to evil, without doubt. Maybe this line refers to President Obama's Nobel Peace Prize win. He has kept evil in check and may liberate a time of great creativity. Not only that, the prize comes near the beginning of his presidency just as today's line is at the beginning of Temptation.

Conflict: Winning At All Cost Leads To Regret; Letting Go Of Impossible Conflict Brings Peace

Conflict 6 shows cunning (K'an, water and danger) within and strength (Ch'ien, heaven) without. When cunning and strength combine, there is sure to be conflict. Conflict also describes a lawyer well.

This hexagram is organized around the fifth line that acts as the judge in the cases brought by the other five lines. The fourth line has the strength and will to engage in conflict with the judge but after some time realizes that he has no legitimate argument with anyone and so lets go of conflict and attains peace. The sixth line exceeds the mean by carrying on conflict until the bitter end. Its win comes with a price that may be difficult to bear.

These changes result in Danger 29 and usually indicates a new opportunity approaches.

Difficulty At The Beginning: Accept Help Only From The Right Source To Remain True To Yourself

Difficulty At The Beginning 3 indicates birth. It shows the eldest son, Chen, Movement, below and the middle son, K'an, Water and Danger, above. It is a fairly straightforward hexagram indicating how to deal with new situations and circumstances. At the beginning, it is important to be cautious. The hexagram not undertaking anything at this time but to find helpers to deal with any difficulties encountered.

The second line changing is difficult to understand. As best as I can tell, it indicates that we will be offered help from an unexpected and ultimately inappropriate source. We may be tempted to accept any help we find in difficulty but if we cannot wait we will do harm to our inner being. We must wait for a complete cycle of time to transpire, the hexagram calls this a period of ten years, when our right and true companion will be able to help us.

The resulting hexagram is Limitation 60. If we stay true to our path we will continue in difficulty, forgoing the easy comfort offered us. That is a limitation, without doubt.

Darkening Of The Light to Nourishing

Darkening of the Light 36 shows Li, the sun, sunken into the earth. It correlates with the Western idea of the dark night of the soul. Here an evil tyrant in the sixth place injures all who are on the side of good and light.

The third line shows that the tyrant is captured. The abuses that occurred during the tyrant's reign were of long standing and it would be unwise to act too swiftly in their removal. Careful consideration is recommended in making reforms. The sixth line shows the tyrant at the height of power, injuring the followers of the good, below. Once the tyrant appears to triumph over the good and light his reign naturally ends as his power derived from those he opposed.

Nourishing 27 is the resulting hexagram. After winning the battle over the evil tyrant, it is time for a great meal. Also, to continue in the way of good, examine one's thoughts as they indicate the nourishment provided the soul.

The Cauldron: God Secures Fate; The Sage Imparts Wisdom We Can Hear

The Cauldron 50 shows Li, fire, above Sun, wood. It indicates the earliest iron vessels created by the Chinese in which food was cooked. Cooking was considered the essential activity that led to civilization. Attached to this hexagram is the advice that great good fortune comes from the consolidation of one's fate.

The sixth line changing indicates that the ting, the sacred iron cooking vessel described in this hexagram, bears rings of jade. The Chinese valued jade more than gold, at least according to this hexagram. It indicates that the sage acts with the will of God to impart information and guidance to us that we are capable of understanding and using to help ourselves. Jade symbolizes this wisdom as it is hard but has a soft luster suggesting that we are able to receive this help in the best way we can. This is opposed to the possibility that the sage speaks to us from such a high enlightenment that we are unable to understand him.

Duration 32 is the resulting hexagram. It indicates an enduring, productive relationship between us and the sage, capable of weathering the storms and trials of fate.

Gradual Progress Becomes Wanderer

Gradual Progress shows a tree, Sun, growing on a mountain, Chen. Trees growing on mountains grow slowly due to poor soil conditions; however, they can be seen far and wide. The trigrams also mean Keeping Still within and Gentle Penetration above, thus suggesting a phase of meditation where thoughts can penetrate external matters with understanding.

A second meaning of Gradual Progress concerns the steps and protocols by which a woman is introduced to a man, leading to marriage. It has the more generalized meaning related to the way societal norms are preserved and how gradual, step-wise development is required in these situations. Related to this meaning, all the lines refer to the behavior of the wild goose, as this bird symbolized marital fidelity in Chinese culture because it was believed to be monogamous and did not take another mate when its first mate died.

The fourth line refers to a goose that settles into a tree branch. The goose is not designed to live in a tree and thus the tree is not its natural resting place. But sometimes necessity arises and the discerning goose can find a flat branch that allows it a foothold. The general meaning is that there are times when we have to make do with difficult situations but that we may have the good fortune to find a temporary situation that allows us to continue on. The fifth line shows the goose approaching the summit of a mountain. It also refers to a woman who is not able to bear children for three years. Near the summit, it is possible we become isolated. This is due to someone near us whose lies spoken to someone we are dependent on poisons our relations with them. In time the lies are revealed and we are able to renew our connection to the important persons in our lives. Thus good fortune results in the end.

The Wanderer is the resulting hexagram and shows the action of Fire on the Mountain. Such a fire burns the fuel available to it and moves on not settling anywhere. The judgment admonishes us to make lawsuits and punishments brief and quickly decided matters whenever possible. It also recommends careful and thoughtful interactions with those we encounter on our wandering because we are in danger and vulnerable during a time when we have no home.

No One Drinks From A Muddy Well

The Well 48 refers to those fundamental and unchanging social structures developed by mankind since the dawn of time that provide sustenance to the community and individual. This hexagram grows gradually more positive as the lines mount from the first to the sixth. In the first line, the well is unusable and bereft of water; in the middle lines the well is being repaired; in the top line the well is repaired and free for the community to use.

The first line changing indicates that no one drinks from a muddy well. This indicates that the well has no water. The text further reflects that a man who dwells in swampy lowlands becomes muddy. No one seeks out such a person and in time he is forgotten. In part this refers to an abandonment of inner development.

Waiting 5 shows Ch'ien, heaven, strength below and K'an, Water and danger above. It indicates a time when eating and drinking are suitable pastimes while awaiting the moment for activity. In reference to the Well and first changing line, it suggests that someone who has given up self-development can nonetheless enjoy the physical pleasures of life. That is fortunate as other doors have been closed.

There Are Times When Withdrawing From The World Is The Best Course Of Action

Work On What Has Been Spoiled (by the Father) or Decay 18 sounds kind of unpleasant but it isn't. The image for this hexagram is a bowl with worms in it. However, the meaning intended is that when things have been ruined, we have a chance to correct them, setting ourselves and the world right. All that is required is work. It is a favorable circumstance when fate gives us problems that can be solved with our own labor.

The sixth line shows the action of the sage during the time of Decay. The sixth line has a few standard meanings: when favorable, it indicates the action of the sage, who has risen above the action indicated by the hexagram. A less favorable common meaning is that one has missed the time to act, one is too late. Here is one of the best, if kind of sad, meanings for a sixth line. The time of Decay is one where the world can be saved through effort. The sage, however, is beyond doing anything actual in the world. The sage retreats from the world where he is obligated to help humanity through his activity in the spirit world.

This change leads to Preponderance of the Great 28. On the one hand it indicates an exceptional time of disaster, like a flood. It also indicates that taking care of the dead, symbolized by the four great lines surrounded by two weak lines, like four coffins in the earth, is the best way to answer the demands of such a time. Here is a sad but relevant Huffpost article: "Cities Across The Nation Too Poor To Bury Their Dead."

Approach: We Receive Help, Make Progress

Approach 19 shows Tui, Lake, under Kun, Earth. It indicates the spring time when life comes back and progress is made. Undertakings are met with success.

Joint approach is indicated by the first line changing. It says to begin your endeavors in the company of those who share your point of view and values. Sticking to your principles brings good fortune.

The result is the Army which depicts strength hidden within the earth.

Oppression or Exhaustion: Restlessness In Adversity Brings Grief

Oppression or Exhaustion shows the Lake, Tui, above, Joy, being drained down into an Abyss, Kan, Danger and Water. Joy is further oppressed by the nuclear trigrams, Li and Sun, that indicate a fire storm. Thus a very unfortunate circumstance -- it describes fairly well the general zeitgeist of the last few years as, for the vast majority of us, the Joy has indeed been drained from our lives in a desert of joblessness, financial oppression by criminal gangs called banks and their government co-conspirators.

The third line changing is near the peak of movement in the time of Oppression. It indicates a restlessness in the face of adversity that causes us to seek rest or shelter from one place or another that cannot provide it. In essence, this activity, intended to remove ourselves from the time of Oppression, only compounds our Oppression; in essence, we oppress ourselves.

Danger, which shows Kan, Danger and Water, doubled, indicates an opportunity. It is perhaps like the supposed Chinese curse, 'May you live in interesting times.'

Obstruction: Turn Inwards

Obstruction shows the opposite or reverse of Youthful Folly. In Obstruction, Water and Danger, Kan, is without and Keeping Still and the Mountain, Ken, is within. (In Youthful Folly, Danger is within and Keeping Still is without.) Thus, Obstruction indicates the height of wisdom, that is, keeping still in the face of danger. This hexagram recommends following the path of least resistance and the one where we will receive the most help from others. It recommends turning inward, meditating so that we can correct ourselves. This is the appropriate way to handle times of Obstruction.

Progress Towards Retreat

Progress 35 shows Li, the sun and clarity, rising over Kun, the earth and devotion. This shows the obedient servant who, while dependent on the ruler, is recognized as a person worthy of support and capable of bringing clarity and light to his circle of influence. This is a time to continue following the path of virtue, as the image says, 'the superior man brightens his bright virtue.'

The third line describes someone who has the agreement and support of superiors and can let go of remorse over the fact that due to his lower position he lacks the ability to overcome every hostile change of fate. The fifth line shows the person of influence who nonetheless lacks the energy to maximize profit from this time of progress. Any such regrets will pass as he realizes the opportunities that do come to him.

Retreat 33 shows heaven retreating from the earth. A timely and well-executed Retreat helps prepare for a counter move when adverse conditions abate. It also protects us from chaos and injury during the time of difficulty.

Gentle Devotion To The Family Brings Blessings

The Family 37 shows Li, clarity and fire, within and Sun, gentleness and wind above. It shows the outgoing influence of inner clarity. Also, when we are injured without, it is natural to withdraw into the family for support.

The second line is one of the rulers of the hexagram. It represents the mother. This line recommends that we forego following our desires and instead withdraw within and cook for our family. This devotion and gentleness shown to our family members will meet with good fortune.

The resulting hexagram is Taming Power of the Small 9. It indicates a gentle force that can accomplish little. It is time for attending to minor details.

Return: Light And Friends Return; Continue To Push Evil Thoughts Away To Avoid Habituation

Return 24 shows Chen, thunder, under the earth, Kun. The time of Winter Solstice is indicated when at the darkest part of the year when evil appears triumphant, light and the good return. This marks the turning point when old patterns return after a time of frustration and loss.

The first line indicates return from a short distance. We are tempted to stray from the good path but correct ourselves easily before harm is done. The third line shows repeated return and is associated with misfortune: it shows someone who is restless, looks to other paths, and strays with evil thoughts. It is still possible to correct oneself and not become habituated to evil.

Modesty 15 results. It depicts the mountain hidden under the earth. It represents values highly esteemed by the I Ching writers. Modesty succeeds by not drawing attention to the self.

Great Power: If You Are Close To Power, Action Brings Good Fortune; If Distant From Power, Resist Desire To Use Power

Great Power 34 shows Power within, Chien, heaven and Movement without, Chen, thunder. It is the time when thunder and lightning rise powerfully into heaven. When Great Power comes, it is important to remain cautious and wait for the right time to act to have the best effect.

The first line changing says that being in a lowly position away from power it is tempting to use the power we have to act -- do not give in to this temptation as the time is not right for acting and misfortune would result from trying to force things. The fourth line shows the ruler of the hexagram making the best use of the time by acting without a great show of power and thereby having the greatest effect on circumstances.

The resulting hexagram is Pushing Upward 46 which shows the tree, here in seed form, pushing upward from within the earth.

Holding Together: Be A Magnet To Others Of Like Mind

Holding Together 8 shows Water on Earth. It has one strong line in the fifth place of the ruler that holds together the other five weak lines, like a comb holding hairs together. It also says in the judgment to perform another divination to see if you have sincerity in you heart. If the answer is yes, all goes well. The image shows a ruler giving out royal patronage to worthy supporters.

The fifth line changing says that you are the center of attraction for those of like mind. This will help you in many ways. Those attracted to you at present were sent by fate and can be trusted. Advancement and good fortune are indicated.

The resulting hexagram is Natural Response 2. It usually means to be more attentive to one's environment so the best decisions can be made.

Increase: Give To Those Below Then Good Fortune Is Returned; Don't Let Your Heart Harden Or Misfortune Results

Wind above and Thunder below; Gentleness without and Movement within; thus is shown Increase 42. It shows a time of enduring progress.

The fifth line changing says that a kind heart is all that is needed to assure good fortune. The sixth line shows misfortune comes to one who is aloof and cold hearted. The sixth line brings no Increase to anyone and therefore is punished.

Return 24 is the resulting hexagram. Return shows the stem of character formation. It indicates that we have learned from our mistakes and are returning to the path. I think this divination means that we are somewhat divided against ourselves. Possibly we have been injured or are grieving due to some loss. A naturally kind disposition is so injured it turns away from the world drawing down more misfortune for it. My guess is that the mistakes lead to correction and remorse thus the good fortune that Return suggests. It reminds me of the saying paraphrased: 'Kind hearts are more important than coronets (that is, fancy titles).'

Retreat: Get Out Of An Impossible Situation

Retreat 33 shows Heaven rising up and away from the Mountain. It does not mean running away in terror but a strategic withdrawal and preparation for counter movement that may come after this time has passed. With no changing lines it indicates that we may encounter situations that are impossible, fixed and untenable such that the only thing we can do is withdraw.

Dispersion: Blowing Danger Away

Dispersion 59 shows Wood over Water, thus giving the idea of a boat and the judgment encouraging us to cross the great water. The boat also suggests communication. Another set of meanings relates to duty of the king to hold together external circumstances that are falling apart. The king accomplishes this aim by turning to religion and the various invisible beings of spirit or gods. This gives the hexagram another part of the judgment where the king is said to build temples for religious observances during the time of Dispersion.

The third line changing indicates dispersing the self. Here, to avoid danger, one must disperse elements taken on by the self. They are not essential and could be points where danger can approach. Or, to achieve something great, self-denial is necessary. The fourth line indicates that one abandons one's own people. The meaning is that one with greatness and vision can see that the greater good is served by striking out away from provincial and local interests but addressing the needs of greater humanity. Doing this can bring great reward.

These changes lead to Coming to Meet 44. This hexagram shows Wind under Heaven. It means temptation and to be watchful for seductive thoughts or situations that may insinuate themselves from below.

Progress: Duty Now For The Future

Progress 35 shows the sun, Li, shining above the earth, Kun. It has no changing lines today. This hexagram is one of the more positive in the I Ching. Like the sun, which is usually alone in the sky, it refers to a time when a single person is able to bring light to their circle of influence. It is more like a sunrise in that usually this person has not had the recognition of others previously. Because there are no changing lines, Progress may indicate the beginning of a long period where advancement unfolds naturally. It is your day in the sun! (The title above was a joke -- it refers to the title of a Devo album; it also does refer to part of the meaning of this hexagram -- in a time of Progress we are meant to help others -- it is our duty -- just as the sun helps all creatures on earth. P.S. The Devo song this links to mentions sunrise -- which is also mentioned above. What more could you people want?)

Biting Through: Go Shopping, Avoid The Chopping Block

Biting Through 21 has come up several times over the last few months. Review them if you care to. Today, it comes up with no changing lines. Biting Through is essentially Nourishing 27, which depicts a mouth, with a strong fourth line, which is the obstacle being bitten through. It shows movement below and the sun shining in the sky -- thus the image of a marketplace. Diverse people assemble in public to trade so that things find their right place. Biting Through has another meaning and shows the criminal being punished. Here, the obstacle in the fourth place is the one being punished.

(I am late in publishing today's divination; I did it earlier today and then went to Bodhi Tree Bookstore on Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood. I had seen a book there that I was considering buying -- it was by Lydia Cabrera and titled Abakua. I looked it up on the internet and found the Bodhi Tree had really mistaken their price -- they charged $12 for a nice hard bound version of the book when on line it sold for $50 to $200. Needless to say, I am glad I went to that marketplace.)

Marrying Maiden: Finding Our Place, Making Sincere Sacrifice

Marrying Maiden 54 shows Tui, lake and youngest daughter, following Chen, thunder and eldest son. It represents marrying for love. It also means having little power in relationships. A further meaning is that it shows the end of transitory creatures when the fall comes. Because of the lack of personal power this hexagram indicates, it is not a time to undertake anything important.

The first line indicates that even with a lowly social position or physical incapacity we are able to find our place in the social order. This brings good fortune. The sixth line shows an impious husband and wife making an empty show during the fall sacrifice. It indicates a marriage that is empty and pretentious and not likely to endure since true feelings appear to be absent from both parties.

The resulting hexagram is Before the End, 64. It shows a time when there is a need to bring order out of chaos. It is a time to be cautious and to evaluate carefully the forces at work in the situations you wish to improve so that efforts at improvement are correctly applied.

Revolution: Perhaps A Debtor's Revolt This Time?

Revolution 49 refers to such cyclical events as the changing seasons and political revolution. Here it has no changing lines. That means a long period of change could be on its way. As a cross explanation, the third of a series of oppositions between Saturn and Uranus occurs about now. They continue until some time in 2011. These oppositions occur every 45 years, the last being between 1965 and 1967. So if you are old enough you can recall how much change occurred then, how much talk of revolution was popular then, and perhaps something a little similar now. Here is an example of a possible revolutionary change suited to these times: A debtor's revolt.

On The Provision Of Nourishment

Providing Nourishment 27 has Ken, keeping still, above and Chen, thunder and upward movement, below. Thus is depicted a mouth -- only the lower jaw moves while the upper part keeps still. This hexagram is about nourishment and its provision in both a literal sense and figurative sense. It calls us to examine the ideas that nourish us and the effects they produce. If we are happy with our circumstances, nothing needs to be done. If we are not happy with our circumstances, changing the ideas we live with can produce different results.

This is a kind of nourishment which leads to death: Christopher Kelly, an associate of ex-Gov. Blagojevich of Ilinois, mysteriously kills himself, and is found in a lumber yard, days before beginning a Federal prison sentence, of an apparent aspirin or Tylenol overdose.

Serena Williams also has some not-very nourishing comments for how referees can consume tennis balls.

Splitting Apart Not Over But End In Sight; Rest, Await Instruction When Transition Comes

Splitting Apart 23 shows a mountain rising up too steeply and proudly from the earth such that it falls. It also shows a solitary light line rising into the heavens and the house of the evil collapsing on itself.

Here the third, fourth and sixth line are changing. The third line has no blame because it is tied to the sixth line by correspondence: the weak third forms an alliance with the strong sixth and can thus save itself from ruin. These ties cause the third line to quarrel with its environment. The fourth line is the most difficult of all: it is a weak line in a weak place and gets no help from the sixth line as the third and fifth lines do. Thus it indicates misfortune that is so immediate it strikes the person swiftly and directly. Finally, the sixth line shows the end of Splitting Apart when we can regain wholeness of character and return to our path with integrity. It shows the Superior Man receiving a carriage, a vehicle to care forward the seed of the future, while the Inferior Man's house is destroyed. All these taken together, along with receiving this hexagram in recent months, indicate the Slitting Apart may not be over but the end is in sight for this difficult time.

Preponderance of the Small 62 results. It has one image of that of a mortar and pestle. A flying bird brings the message. It is not a time for great accomplishments. A transition is indicated. After Splitting Apart, we need to rest and take things slowly before taking up new tasks.

Waiting With Confidence Then Peace

Waiting 5 indicates a time when we are sure of our goals but must wait for them to come to fruition. This is a time when we can enjoy ourselves while waiting, to strengthen ourselves for more activity. Waiting therefore encourages us to take 'meat and drink.' Perhaps eat out or have a dinner party soon. Waiting is composed of Ch'ien, heaven, the creative, below, and K'an, water, danger, the abyss, above. It is the inverse of Conflict, 6, from a few days ago. Here, Waiting means holding back, pausing, before the danger that is ahead. Because we are strong inside we do not become perplexed or bewildered by danger.

The fifth line changing repeats part of the judgement from above, namely to encourage enjoyment of 'meat and drink.' This time of waiting is intended to fortify us for more activity later.

Peace is the resulting hexagram. It shows heaven under earth or put simply in English idiom, heaven on earth. It is a time when all beings prosper.

The Wanderer: A New Home Awaits; You May Remain A Stranger Or Find Recognition For Capable Work

The Wanderer 56 shows Li, fire, on Ken, the mountain. Just like a wildfire, the wanderer must move on. Circumstances sometimes require leaving one's home for a foreign land. You may acquire a resting place and property but remain unsettled and continue to feel as a stranger in a strange land. You feel the need to transition to a new phase in life but feel anxious because it has not come yet. Be patient -- it is coming. On the other hand, you may be able to demonstrate an ability or capacity for accomplishment that will be recognized by others and lead to truly finding a new home. It should be remembered that The Wanderer is a guest and traveller with few friends or acquaintances so good behavior and keeping good company is important to avoiding trouble or difficulty. This is also a time when lawsuits should be quickly concluded when possible. Lawsuits in the I Ching can mean inner thoughts that bind us to others.

Gradual Progress, Tree on Mountain, results from these changes. Acquiring a new home and new position leads to renewed progress.

Retreat: Hostile Forces Advance, Good Timing Affords Success

Retreat 33 shows the Superior Man, represented by Chien, heaven, rising up and away from the Inferior Man, represented by Ken, mountain and keeping still. Mountains can rise up toward heaven but always reach an end at the peak. Heaven continues to rise up into infinity. The Inferior Man is represented by the two lower lines. The I Ching only offers advice to the Superior Man. Times of Retreat are difficult and rely on cunning, awareness of when the time is right to act, and firmness of will to execute the Retreat skillfully. Retreat does not mean flight as if running for one's life but a careful assessment of one's circumstances and action appropriate to allow for a counter movement when the time changes.

Grace 22 is the resulting hexagram which shows Li, fire, illuminating Ken, the mountain and keeping still. It indicates a time where outer form may give pleasure but little can be accomplished.

Difficulty At The Beginning: Bring Order Out Of Confusion; Find Helpers

Difficulty At The Beginning 3 shows Chen, thunder and movement, below and Kan, water and danger, above. It shows birth. It also has the image of shoots of grass emerging from the earth; they are visible but have not left their home, the earth. The hexagram shows the chaotic profusion of individuals, born of the marriage of Heaven and Earth, the proceeding two hexagrams. It is a time of work and sticking to chosen paths or perseverance. It is also a time to find helpers for tasks that are beyond your means. This hexagram is without changing lines and says that you may have been blocked by the difficulties of a new phase in life. You may not be aware of this blockage or even distressed by it if you are aware -- like a comfortable old habit. Until you get past this blockage you cannot progress.

Shocking: Fear Brings Caution; Open Your Mind To The World For Guidance

Shocking or Rousing 51 shows Chen, Thunder and eldest son, doubled. It refers to the spring when god comes forth in powerful thunder storms, renewing life. The judgment is repeated in the text for the first line: shock causes fear and a new rule is made that brings good fortune. The fourth line is also a strong line but in a weak place and indicates mired shock. The mind is preventing the beneficial effects of shock from occurring. 

The resulting hexagram is Natural Response 2. It indicates that closer attention to your environment and opening the mind to the world's influences will guide you to the appropriate path. 

Oppression: Death Approaches; A Higher Power Helps, Rescues Us

Oppression 38, shows Tui, Joy, Lake, above, evaporating upward, and Kan, Water, Danger, the Abyss, draining the Lake, below. The nuclear trigrams show Li, Fire, and Sun, Wind, further oppressing Tui, Joy. Oppression also means an encounter and a test of character. Oppression allows for the lessening of anger. The image says that the superior man stakes his life on following his will.

The third line is a weak line in a strong place and suffers a great deal due to Oppression. It is oppressed by the strong fourth line above that weighs down on it like a stone and is oppressed from below, the strong third line, on which it tries to rest, but finds it like a thorny bush, and can not provide support. There is the further implication that this line is oppressed more by inner thoughts than external circumstances. As a result of being oppressed on both sides, death approaches. Here is an article about approaching economic death. The fourth line is said to be humiliated because it wants to help those below, namely the first line, but holds with wealthy superiors that impede the rescue it hoped to implement. In time, these matters are resolved and assistance is provided. Taken together, these changes suggest that it is possible to remove our blockages with the help of someone in a superior position. If you change 'death' for 'debt' and squint a little you get this article about Annie Leibowitz -- lets see if she has someone to save her career; based on this divination I am guessing that she does.

The resulting hexagram is Danger, the Abysmal, 29. It is formed by doubling K'an, Water, Danger and the Abyss. Thus it shows abyss upon abyss.  It recommends holding to the good to overcome the abyss. It is a good time to undertake things and success can be achieved by all who have sincerity in their hearts.

Biting Through: No Blame For Vigorous Punishment of Those Deserving Of It

Biting Through 21 indicates a market place where diverse people come together to exchange goods. It also indicates punishment and execution for the evil and sinners. Here the second line changing indicates that we encounter a committed sinner and in our zeal to punish exceed the mean. The punishment does not exceed the level of offense so no blame is attached. Here is an excellent Financial Times article about the apparent lack of prosecution of the banksters for crimes much worse than those of the Savings and Loan crisis of twenty years ago.

The resulting hexagram is Opposition 38. It is made of the two younger daughters, Tui, the Lake or water, that seeps downward and Li, Fire, clarity that flames upwards. Thus the two trigrams separate forming the crux of the situation. Opposition means estrangement and misunderstandings. It shows separation and individuality amongst differing people.

Inner Truth: On Inner Freedom

Inner Truth 61 was received again today. Inner Truth speaks of the ability to cause 'pigs and fishes' to follow our will due to the power we may possess at this time. It also speaks of the need to discuss criminal cases to postpone judgment. This hexagram also discusses the inverse of the power to influence others: how we lose inner peace and truth when we become dependent on others for our happiness. The first line says that when we give up inner independence we may find our emotions volatile, becoming rapidly very happy then sad, depending on our relationship with others. The third line shows that we gain a comrade. This comrade, however, has captured our inner independence so that we are not in control of our feelings. Finally, the sixth line indicates the cock crowing to heaven: this means that misfortune can come because the cock can only speak, which can influence things in a limited way, and does not have the power of heaven because the cock is bound to earth.

These changes result in The Well, 48. The Well speaks of long-term and enduring structures that the foundations of civilization require to continue to flourish.

Moderation: Flying Under The Radar Reaches The Goal

A moth flew unnoticed to this flower where its camouflage provides more modesty. 

Modesty or Moderation 15 shows Kun, Earth, above, and Ken, Mountain, keeping still, below. This hexagram is one of the most highly praised in traditional interpretations of the I Ching.

The first line changing indicates that modesty doubled is the best cloak against danger and can accomplish its aims because it is well hidden. This line is yielding and in the lowest place thus indicating doubled modesty. It stands before the lower nuclear trigram Kan, danger. Its modesty is a shield against this danger. Kan also means water and in this hexagram, as well as this line, the general judgement is given that one may cross the great water, that is accomplish one's goals.

The resulting hexagram is Darkening of the Light 36. It means an on going need to hide one's true purpose and intentions to avoid injury.

Inner Truth: Communication Requires Openness

Inner Truth 61 with no changing lines indicates that no interaction or effect on your situation can occur until there is openness and rapport between you and whatever situation you are in. Inner Truth shows Sun, wood, gentle penetration, above and Tui, lake, joy below. This also gives the image of a boat on the lake. The hexagram speaks of communication amongst distant people being the reason boats were invented.

1511 PST: Just saw this on Huff Post: Google's Gmail closed most of day. See comment.

Obstacles Give Way To Gradual Progress

Obstruction (or Obstacles) 39 is the inverse of Deliverance 40. Obstacles shows Ken, mountain, keeping still (meditating), below and Kan, water, danger, above. The obstacles indicated arise in our outer lives but may have inner causes. That is why the wise person will pause and meditate to search out inner causes of obstacles. If these exist, it won't matter what we do in the outer world to combat our obstacles until the inner obstructions are addressed.

The sixth line, as is usual, represents the Sage, who due to age and wisdom has withdrawn from the world's everyday affairs. When obstructions arise, the Sage is tempted to escape into the great beyond to avoid them. Here, the Sage's way is blocked: (s)he must return to address the world's problems. The Sage must find the Great One in the fifth place and help to set the world right.

Gradual Progress 46 results. It combines the same inner trigram, Ken, mountain and keeping still (meditating), as above with Sun, a tree, wind, and gentle penetration, above. Gradual Progress probably seems slow to people today. The imperceptible, slow growth of a tree on a mountain might take a long time to show improvement. However, it makes for a pretty image, suitable for a landscape painting.

Innocence: Channel The Inner Baby To Succeed

Innocence 25 shows movement within and power without.  Chen, thunder, the eldest son, is within and Chien, heaven, the father is without. It indicates a time to examine motives and values to assure yourself they are good and innocent to achieve the best effects. If you proceed from contrived or less than honorable intentions, the Universe will probably thwart your designs. That is why a baby-like innocent approach will succeed -- you may be able to see things with fresh eyes. With no changing lines a sense of the unexpected is amplified.

Deliverance: Time To Rid Yourself Of Negative Influences

Deliverance 40 shows Chen, Thunder, movement, above, and Kan, Water, danger, below. Deliverance shows moving away from danger.

The top three lines changing all refer to eliminating negative influences. Some may be internal like bad habits of mind but the top one refers to some great enemy. There is a chance to eliminate this enemy that has not arisen for a long time. Make the best of the opportunity given.

The resulting hexagram is Folly 4. After achieving Deliverance, a new time comes where you may have a lot to learn.

Stagnation or Standstill

Stagnation or Standstill 12 is the inverse of Peace 11. The difference lies in the relative positions of Heaven and Earth. Heaven rises; Earth sinks down. So when Heaven is below Earth, the two meet up, and there is union and happiness, and all beings in the universe prosper. When Heaven is above Earth, Heaven continues to rise upward and Earth continues to sink down, and there is disunion, disharmony, and all beings do not prosper. With no changing lines, Standstill means whatever disunion or disharmony you experience today is likely to continue for some time.

Peace: 'Sod It,' Says Humpty Dumpty; Then Do The Dishes

Peace 11 is composed of Earth, Kun, above and Chien, Heaven, below giving the simple meaning of heaven on earth. 

The first line changing mentions that when grass is pulled up, the sod comes with it. That is, this first line is linked to the fourth line and advances with it. Thus, 'Sod it,' in the above headline, though the apparent meaning has nothing to do with the conventional meaning of that expression. (Another interpretation is that helping those in need will meet with good fortune.) The sixth line changing shows the earth, which represents the evil force, at the height of its power, and so extended that it falls down, like an unstable wall. Thus, the image of Humpty Dumpty, above. (Another interpretation is that external material circumstances are in decline and nothing can be done about it.)

Finally, these changes result in Work On What Has Been Spoiled (By The Father) 18. One of its images is that of worms in a bowl. It is kind of like someone inviting you to a party, you are told your contribution is to clean up afterwards, and when you get there the party is over but you still are obligated to clean up. Thus, after the changes above, it is time to do the dishes. This hexagram seems kind of unpleasant on the surface but is actually rather good. It is like until now the Universe has given you a series of impossible tasks and then finally the Universe gives you a problem amenable to work. It gives a sense of control over destiny when problems can be solved.

Taming Power of the Small: A Day For A Manicure

It is as if you possessed the strength and desire to accomplish your goals today but an external small detail prevents you from taking any action. This detail might be hidden from you. Nonetheless you are prevented from affecting the world except in small, personal ways. So that is why I say get a manicure or hair cut: that is something that can be accomplished. It is also suggested that working on the Self, refining inner impulses and desires, can also be done. Today's hexagram is without changing lines suggesting that today's goals may be out of reach a long time. It is the inverse of two day's ago, Treading, 10.

Darkening Of The Light

Darkening of the Light, 36, shows the light, Li, buried under the earth, Kun. It indicates that the light is injured by being buried. Generally a painful hexagram except that it also indicates night, a time of rest. (Yesterday also recommended rest.) It points to a time that is a familiar trope in science fiction that in reality is an experience fairly commonly held by the severely mentally ill. Like 'Invasion of the Body Snatchers,' you may find yourself utterly isolated with no one who shares your point of view. To express yourself now would invite calamity. Go along to get along. Do not abandon your beliefs but wait for times to change and the danger to pass. It might be a very long wait -- you may be in a very limited position, try to accept fate, you are still on the right path. 'Sure, I hear voices' or 'I have seen UFOs' or 'Yeah, I've been to Hogwarts' are things to keep to yourself. Just kidding. Sort of.

Treading: If You Are Weak, Don't Use Your Power

Treading 10 shows a weak, inner self, symbolized by Tui, the youngest daughter and Joy, encountering the strong, symbolized by the outer trigram Chien, Heaven and the father. Chien is given the further symbol of the tiger. Thus this hexagram shows a weak, young girl treading on the tail of a tiger. The tiger should attack, one would think, but it does not, because of the smallness and weakness of the youngest daughter. As noted in older readings, it could be that the young, joyful daughter displayed proper manners so that the tiger did not feel it necessary to punish her. This gives the general sense I mention elsewhere: social tensions and encounters with superiors go better when good manners are brought to bear.

The third line changing indicates that a one-eyed man can see but without adequate clarity and a lame man can tread but not with confidence -- pressing on leads the tiger to bite. This indicates a situation when our powers are weakened and yet we feel it necessary to press forward. In our weakened state this can only lead to disaster. If such self sacrifice is on behalf of the higher self it might be acceptable but in most circumstances it is best to rest and regain ones' power before pressing ahead. More waiting, in other words.

Chien, heaven 1, is the resulting hexagram. It shows heaven doubled. Creativity is represented. What you do now will lay a foundation for further growth and energy for a long time. So take care of the beginning as all the future circumstances can be found in the seed.

Dispersion and Reuniting: The Need For Bloodshed Disperses, Our Kin Are Drawn Away From Danger

Dispersion or Reuniting 59 has a double, contrary meaning of both dispersion, the breaking up of danger by the wind, and bringing back together things in disunity, that is, reuniting what is separate or alienated. 

The sixth line indicates dispersion of the blood which means that through the action of wind the need for bloodshed is avoided. This also means that our actions help not only ourselves but our extended family with whom we have bonds of kinship.

The resulting hexagram is Kan, Danger or the Abyss, 29. It can mean new opportunities.

Work On What Has Been Spoiled (or Decay): Small Correction, Still Time Of Holding Still

Conflict: Inner Struggles Result In Spiritual Maturity But A Bad Time Now

Conflict 6 with no changing lines. Conflict consists of chien, heaven and strength, above and kan, water, danger and cunning below. Strength combined with cunning results in conflict. With no changing lines it indicates that the universe has sounded a resounding 'No!' to everything you have considered doing, or thought or dreamed about. How distressing! Everyone around you has different perspectives than you and won't see your side of things so it is best to keep quiet unless you relish humiliating experiences. Perhaps like the French philosopher Rousseau, you enjoy public displays of nudity and being spanked in public. That seems doubtful -- but a cheerily strange and highly improbable prediction for you. 

Another aspect of this time would be that the conflict we experience is internal and of a spiritual nature -- kind of like a struggle for someone's soul, a popular theme in literature and the arts for hundreds of years. While the battles rage on, less than nothing is to be expected or accomplished -- like a holding pattern over an airport that seems to drag on to eternity.

The Emperor and The Hierophant: Inner and Outer Powers Unite To Influence

The Emperor represents Aries and is restrictive, practical, opinionated and paternal. It can lead to materialism. Represents external power like of a government. The Hierophant represents Taurus and is matter on the one hand and represents spiritual power like a priest or pope. Stubborn, dogmatic, strong willed but possessed of deep intuition and faith. In combination there is the suggestion of an attempt to influence or persuade others to their point of view.

A Pennies-From-Heaven Cloud Burst Leads To Return

Resoluteness or Breakthrough 43 is the inverse of yesterday's hexagram. It shows the five light lines mounting up from below to push out the remaining evil, dark line in the sixth position. The Lake risen up to Heaven indicates a cloud burst dispensing liquid wealth to those below. It shows strength and joy. This hexagram refers to the time when written documents were first used to govern. Joy also means speaking thus the judgment indicates it is a time to announce the truth in the king's court. Eliminating the evil ruler at the top is difficult as strength is required but violent means will not succeed. Apparently, using the right, truthful words is sufficient for success.

The second line changing indicates a cry of alarm but there is nothing to fear because one has found the middle way. The third line shows a situation where one is associated with the evil tyrant at the top and even though your intentions are good you are mistakenly lumped together with the evil tyrant. This situation passes on its own with patience. The fourth line indicates that we are obstinate and do not listen to the good advice we are given and try to forge ahead through strength of will yet we do not have the power to accomplish our desires. Finally, the fifth line indicates that evil needs to be rooted out just as weeds are removed from a garden.

The resulting hexagram is Return 24. It is one of the most positive hexagrams. It shows an improvement in our character. After experiencing misfortune as the result of splitting from our path, light returns to our situation as we correct ourselves and return to our path.

SO WHAT DOES IT MEAN? Skip to here if you want to bypass lots of I Ching technicalities. You may recall that Resoluteness 43 occurred on June 26. With so many changing lines, the entire nuclear part of the hexagram, there is a sense of an inner revolution. Holding firm inside has led to a number of bumps and unfortunate turns but we have held steady. Evil is eliminated and light, power and direction return. If you have experienced any blockages in personal, work or other life situations, this would be a time for them to give way. 

Of course, you could just let Billie Holiday tell you herself. 

The Hermit and Justice: Frustration Or Creativity?

Hermit and Justice indicate the possibility of frustration. The Hermit's Virgo energy is all over the details and can't leave anything alone as it strives for perfection. Justice's Libra adds further analytical detail. Yet despite this possibility it could be a good time for artistic or even scientific work of high creativity to occur. Details could prove so interesting they lead to distraction.

Sometimes destroying everything can be creative -- like this great Ladytron song!

Coming To Meet or Temptation: Indulgence Leads To Trouble

Coming To Meet or Temptation 44 shows wind blowing under heaven. Thus the image says that the king, represented by heaven, Chien, above, disseminates commands to the four corners, through the action of Sun, wind. It also indicates a time when the inferior, evil element introduces itself at the bottom. This gives the judgement, 'The maiden is powerful. Do not marry her.' This is an indication of a temptation that insinuates itself at the bottom of our awareness and may appear small and weak. It has the power to completely takeover and eliminate the good if it is indulged and given power. There are no changing lines so the suggestion is that small, seemingly pleasurable things we might encounter or harbor in our thoughts, if given power, will cause great harm in time. The I Ching almost always counsels caution.

Cool photos from District 9, coming out on August 14 -- I think I might be tempted to go see it. Has best buzz on anything I have heard about all summer.

There is another, contrary meaning for this hexagram. When heaven and earth are destined to meet, great things are possible. It depends on each keeping to its proper sphere. This has a cosmic significance that I will leave to your imagination to divine. Well, Okay, here is one possibility: a communication from a spirit guide or ancestor would be an example of heaven and earth meeting. Another way of putting it would be to use the language of Christian mystics who speak of a marriage with God. On another track, here is an example of heaven meeting Jupiter. And I couldn't resist this set of computer-rendered illustrations showing how it might look for a massive type 1A supernova explosion. That would be an example of how earth is made in the heavens: from hydrogen, helium and lithium all the heavier elements vital to earthly life are made.

Judgment and The Sun: Play To Win

A time to play to win. A loss now will be long lasting. So will a victory.

Innocence: Don't Let Undeserved Misfortune Get You Down; It Will Pass

Innocence shows Chien, heaven and the creative, above and Chen, thunder and arousing, below: outer power coupled with inner movement. The spring is the time when thunder rolls under heaven. It brings forth new growth that in its original condition attains a child-like state of Innocence. It symbolizes the good ruler who cultivates and helps those below to prosper.

Come here, here, cow, miss lovely moo cow! (An attempt to charm a wandering cow to follow me home)

The third line changing says that someone by chance wanders by a cow we have tethered and takes it. Our loss is other's gain. It is a form of undeserved misfortune. We are counseled to hold to the state of Innocence as it comports with the time and we will emerge from this time in the proper frame of mind to take further action.  (The I Ching is full of such picturesque language that generally does not mean what it appears to. Since very few own cows anymore, it has a more general meaning that does apply.) This sounds like undeserved misfortune -- $675,000 fine for downloading 30 songs.

Fellowship With Men or Friendship 13 results. It shows a fire burning up towards heaven around which a group of people gather. It is a good time to socialize away from home.

Justice and The Empress

Sense and Sensibility or Logic and Emotions -- A powerful woman. A patroness. Or an Amazon warrior princess.

A photo showing only a corner (bottom right) of the Devil's Tea Table in New Jersey just across the Delaware River from New Hope, Pennsylvania. It is a beautiful place I visited a number of times when I lived in Philadelphia. It turns out there are many Devil's Tea Tables in the United States; They were formed as the Ice Age glaciers melted and imbedded rocks came to rest on other rocks. Anyway, I couldn't figure out where the Devil's Country was, it is one of the harder to understand phrases in the I Ching and is found in today's divination.

Before Completion: Caution and Shock Lead To A Wish Granted

Before Completion (or Before The End) 64 is the last hexagram in the I Ching. It is to indicate that the book ends with unfinished tasks to further suggest the continuation of the way. Here Li, fire and clarity, flames upward and K'an, water and danger, sink downward, thus leading to separation of the trigrams. Once separated, they can be united. This is alluded to in the judgment when it indicates that the superior person should separate things at this time. It also says that relying too much on your own strength runs the risk of 'getting ones' tail wet,'  as in when a fox crosses a frozen stream that could give way if proper care is not taken. If this happens, completion does not come.

The second line indicates braking ones' wheels. Taking extra caution furthers the chance of success for crossing the water and bringing matters to completion. This is associated with good fortune. The fourth line says that the devil's country is disciplined and this leads to three years of rewards. Again, good fortune is indicated. (Maybe the Devil's Country is a place like mid-1800s U.S. where private firefighters fought over who would put out your fire (and get paid) while your house burned down.)

The resulting hexagram is Splitting Apart 23. It indicates a time when the good withdraw to heaven and the evil are destroyed. It also suggests a time when sleep is disturbed.

The Emperor and Wheel of Fortune

A strong person acting beyond their limits. Danger in a fight. Welcome advice for the strong from the stronger.

The Abyss: Heart-Felt Sincerity Leads To Success

The Abysmal 29 is formed by doubling of K'an, water, the abyss and the heart, among other meanings. The image says that the superior person should carry on the business of teaching. The judgment says that those who have sincerity can become successful. The heart is mentioned because it is one of the meanings of K'an. Unchanging it could mean successive encounters with danger one situation after another. Only by holding to virtue and a pure heart can one overcome the repeated dangers.

Strength and Judgment: Seen Any Show-Offs Today?

An extrovert, a center of attention who is exciting and makes others feel more alert and happy by their presence.

Galling Limitation Lead To Something New; Insight Results

Limitation 61 shows kan, water and danger, above and tui, lake and joy, below. Kan can also mean a thief and tui can also mean speech or the mouth. Joyous in passing through danger is one meaning. It also refers to the limitation of time into discrete periods -- the hexagram specifically mentions the calendar divided into months so that order comes to agriculture and planning for things appropriate to their season. The division of land into parcels is another division spoken of that in this case leads to harmony amongst people. Limitation suggests the means to good government and the division of society to bring balance to consumption and production. A warning is given not to persist in galling limitation because it is a path that comes to its end. The ruler in the fifth place has the means to bring limitation to conclusion thus forestalling the end. More good government. (snark)

The changing sixth line shows the end of limitation. It is a weak line and cannot use force to attain its will without experiencing galling or humiliation. Misfortune can be avoided and remorse disappear once a new direction is taken.

Inner Truth or Insight 61 results. It shows the power of truth to influence people at a distance.

Art and The Star: A Spectator Of Life

This combination of trumps means being a spectator of events. It means being cut off from or unable to contact your inner self. Difficulty in self awareness. It could be like being at a concert -- click on Shock below -- that is it.

Shock Spurs Action, Great Power Results

The Arousing 51, also called Shock or Thunder, is composed of Chen doubled. It means beginning and arising. Terror comes and spreads fear far and wide but the superior person is calm inside and can attend to every detail without distraction as a tumultuous storm rages around. The superior person feels fear and trembling nonetheless and uses it for self examination. 

The second line changing is a weak line in a weak place and is therefore correct so the external danger it faces, here expressed as losing one's possessions and climbing nine hills in pursuit, resolves on its own when the time changes again. The third line is a weak line in a strong place thus it is not up to the challenges of its position. Shock makes this line distraught and spurs it to action thus it escapes misfortune. It is not strong enough to act on its own and needs the power of the strong first line to spur it into action.

Power of the Great 34 shows power coupled with movement. See below, July 20, for a recent divination of this hexagram complete with photo of cave dwelling (which is part of the meaning). It suggests improvement in material circumstances.

Darkening Of The Light: A Good Attitude Saves The Day; A Bad One Brings Disaster

Here is a really lovely story about a 5-year-old girl that raised through donations and collecting cans nearly $4,000 to feed the homeless in San Francisco. A good attitude in adversity can work wonders.

Darkening Of The Light 36 shows the light sunk into the earth. The earth is said to injure the light and many of the lines speak of injury. This time calls for hiding one's light, to avoid standing out and thus avoiding injury. It is a time when evil has power over the good.

The second line changing indicates injury in the left thigh but is associated with good fortune. This line takes the right attitude and holds to the rules of the universe, thus earning its good fortune. The sixth line is at the height of evil and is the first one rooted out when times change. This line did not follow the rules of the universe and injured others so that while it attained the heights of heaven where it could influence and help others, its misdeeds cause it to be cast down into the earth. I think this hexagram and its changing lines is a message about how to deal with adversity and how a proper attitude can bring good fortune out of misfortune.

The Taming Power Of The Great 26 results. It shows heaven and power within and the mountain and keeping still without. Keeping power still, taming power, brings 'great correctness' and recommends not eating at home so that people of worth can be nourished. It also says that virtue is renewed daily at this time. This time recommends reading about the sayings of antiquity and the deeds of the past or history which will strengthen virtue.

                                                                            Mark Morford: God Is Not Your Bitch

Can't I ever catch a break?  Even economist Paul Krugman is getting into the divination businesss! How to compete with a Nobel laureate? Hmmm... 

A Bad Fate Turns Good Suddenly Then Increase Environmental Awareness

                      Maybe a superhero like Ultraman can suddenly spring us from a bad fate?

Approach 19 means power coming up from below. It means becoming great. Approach refers to the spring time with increased light and growth. Contemplation 20 is the opposite and shows the light retreating to heaven and refers to the fall. 

The first line refers to joint approach. That is, it is called in by the weaker line above to help it. Thus the two lines approach together, jointly. It has the will the the second line lacks. The second line is a strong line in a weak place, thus the weakness spoken of above. Despite this weakness it has the power to counteract a bad fate even if it has already taken hold through strong movement upwards. It is the lowest, energetic line of the nuclear trigram Chen, thunder and movement. Some think the Unites States can avoid the fate of Japan in the '90s when they had similar problems due to finances. Who knows?

Natural Response 2 is the resulting hexagram. It means the earth, the receptive and the mother. It also means be more open to your environment.

Classic Cartoon

Difficulty At The Beginning Says Find Helpers; Contemplation Results

Fairies are a kind of helper -- Sir Arthur Conan Doyle believed in fairies because when these photos were made no one had heard of Photoshop.

Difficulty At The Beginning 3 refers to problems that arise when starting something new and its image suggests birth. It is said to work supreme success and recommends appointing helpers. It is not a time to go it alone -- you do not possess the strength to complete the tasks ahead without help. Clouds and Thunder, the image of this hexagram, indicates that order is brought out of confusion. It is like sorting out the strings of a silk skein: to be useful one string must be pulled out of the profusion of strings in the skein.

The first line says to appoint helpers. It indicates hesitation and hindrance but encourages perseverance. The second line says an opportunity to make connections offers itself and must be seized. It is necessary to be humble and overcome feelings of pride or reserve. The fifth line says that we are in a time when our good works are thwarted by others. We must not give up but work in hiding so in time we can gradually accomplish our goal. Help!  Here is how to ask for help.

Contemplation 20 results. It refers to the time of Contemplation that occurs between the libation and sacrifice. If one is sincere and reverential in Contemplation, awe inspiring effects are possible. It also refers to a time when the king sent people out to survey the land and offer instruction to those in need of it.

Might As Well Party: Waiting Continues; Gossip At A Party? Unheard Of!

Waiting 5 occurs again today. It says to eat and drink, basically have a party, because it is not time to take serious action about any significant matters. 

The second line says that we wait in sand and gossip comes but it does not do any damage. What good is a party without gossip? Please see The Women -- a great Joan Crawford and Norma Shearer movie with lots of gossip. Or Jezebel with Bette Davis. Anyway, more waiting is in store. Make sure any dresses you wear are the right color for the occasion -- or suffer Bette Davis' fate of social ostracism.

After The End 63 results. It indicates that only small things can be done. It refers to a period of refinement when things start out at their best and can only decline unless action is taken at a later, appropriate time. This is what happened to Norma Shearer's character Mary Haines in The Women.

The Small Preponderates Then Gather Together

The Preponderance of the Small 62 indicates that attention to small matters are necessary. Seemingly insignificant details could turn out to be very important.

The third line indicates misfortune in that someone may sneak up from behind and hit us. Caution and vigilance are recommended. The fourth line says that we remain constantly persevering but do not take action. It is a time of extreme danger when we really want to take action to get out of the situation but the time requires restraint -- the time for taking action has not yet come. The fifth line is the ruler of the hexagram and indicates a prince shoots someone who is hiding in a cave and that there are dense clouds without rain: this line means that a prince is born who can set the world right but does not have the means to do so alone. He needs helpers who are people of real achievement who are hidden at present. People give off light -- so maybe they aren't so hard to find after all, even in a cave?

The result is Holding Together 8. It indicates a need to hit the right moment to join in with others and that the ruler bestows fiefs and kingdoms at this time.

Obstruction Recommends Coming Three Times, Leads To Fellowship With Men or Friendship

Obstruction shows Water gathering on the Mountain

Obstruction 39 has not come up since this blog started over two months ago; its inverse, Deliverance 40, has. Obstruction shows the opposite situation to Youthful Folly 4. Here, one sees danger and holds still, which is a sign of wisdom. This is because Kan, danger, water and obstruction, is the upper or outer trigram, and Ken, mountain, keeping still, is the lower or inner trigram. The lower nuclear trigram is Li, light or clarity, hence the ability to see the danger. 'Coming' and 'Going' relate to the structure of individual hexagrams. Here, almost all the lines recommend 'coming,' which means to meditate or concern ourselves with inner states or stay close to home because danger is in the outer trigram, where the focus of 'going' is obstructed. Whatever question or concern you have today, the answer lies within.

The resulting hexagram is Fellowship With Men 13, which I sometimes call 'Friendship.' It has the image of a campfire flaming up towards heaven around which a group of people have assembled.

Breakthrough Warns Of The Beginning; The Great Preponderates

Walter Cronkite -- Still At Work?

Breakthrough 43 came on June 26 and July 15 -- have a look. It is today's hexagram, too. It means conflict between good and evil and requires fortitude and diligence to defeat the evil tyrant in the sixth place. It recommends speaking in public like a court room to make the truth known. It also recommends for the rich at the top to dispense wealth downward just as rain falls from the heavens. It is the inverse of Splitting Apart 23 where darkness and evil mount up to drive out the remaining light bringing ruin to all but those at the top. Here the good mounts up from below to drive out the evil at the top which brings good fortune.

The first line, as is often the case, means the toes. At the beginning of the time yet not central it doesn't usually have good fortune. When the first line changes it usually means acting too soon -- that is the meaning here. Just as yesterday, this line indicates that the time for action has not arrived yet. Unlike yesterday, there is no indication that obstacles will be removed, only the warning to stop before acting too soon.

Preponderance of the Great 28 results. It means a flood -- the Lake risen above the Trees. It also means care for the dead. (This is a meaning that can be found in standard I Ching translations but is seldom emphasized -- I choose to because it is easy and effective  -- it is such a valuable suggestion I hope you will try it -- light a candle, put out some flowers, a glass of water and ask your ancestors to help you.) Walter Cronkite hasn't given up work just because he has passed. And while this link is intended to be humorous, my intention is serious.