The Abysmal Water to Gathering Together: Small Efforts Lead The Way

Again a recent hexagram, the Abysmal or Water 29, occurs. It says 'if you are sincere you have success in your heart and everything you do succeeds.' It also means teaching and pausing. Just as water that encounters an abyss will fill it up before flowing on, we are meant to pause in this time.

The second line warns that the abyss is dangerous and we should take only small steps now. This simple warning is sufficient for this line is central. It is not correct -- a strong line in a weak place -- so a warning is given to avoid taking major action. The fourth line indicates that food and drink are passed in through the window. This might indicate humiliation but it is not necessary that it does. What is meant is that in times of simplicity it is permissible to forego customary behavior that can no longer be afforded. Sincerity is more important than outside display. It also means that to teach someone who has turned from the light simple and limited actions are best so as not to overwhelm the person we are teaching.

Gathering Together 45, composed of Joy or the Lake above and Earth or the Devoted below, follows these changes. It is the result of the action of water over time that has accumulated and filled up the abyss on earth. This hexagram says to renew our weapons to ward against the unexpected.