Hexagram 19
Approach
临 (Lín)
Earth over Lake
The image shows the nourishing Earth situated above the joyful Lake. This represents a higher, benevolent power "approaching" or condescending to a lower one. The two strong lines at the bottom are growing, signifying the advance of positive, light-filled energy. This is a time of great opportunity, growth, and good fortune, where leadership is met with joyful acceptance.
Key Concepts
The Judgment (彖传)
This is a highly auspicious judgment. A time of growth and opportunity is approaching, promising great success. To make the most of it, one must remain steadfast and principled. However, there is a crucial warning: this favorable period is cyclical and will not last forever. The "eighth month" symbolizes the turning point where this positive energy will begin to wane (in Hexagram 20, Contemplation). Therefore, one must act now and not put things off.
The Image (象传)
Just as the earth holds the lake and its water, providing for all, the wise leader is a boundless source of guidance and support for their community. They dedicate themselves to educating and uplifting others without growing weary. They are also infinitely patient and accepting, creating a nurturing environment where everyone can thrive. This is the model of benevolent leadership.
Interpretation & Guidance
When you receive Hexagram 19, you are entering a springtime of opportunity and positive growth. Your influence is increasing, and conditions are favorable for success. If you are in a position of leadership, this is the time to engage with those you lead, to teach, guide, and nurture them. Your benevolent approach will be met with enthusiasm and loyalty. If you are in a subordinate position, be open to the guidance and opportunities coming from above.
The most important piece of guidance is to act now. This period of blessing is powerful but temporary. Seize the opportunities before you. Start the project, lead the team, teach the class. Your efforts now will yield great results. Do not let complacency or procrastination waste this precious window of time.
The Six Lines (六爻)
Nine at the Beginning (初九)
Bottom line - Yang
"Joint approach. Perseverance brings good fortune."
The positive movement begins. You are not alone; you are approaching this opportunity with a worthy partner or associate. This shared purpose strengthens your position. Maintaining your integrity on this path will lead to success.
Nine in the Second Place (九二)
Second line - Yang
"Joint approach. Good fortune. Everything furthers."
This is an extremely auspicious position. The forces of growth and opportunity are strong, and your connection with your allies is deep and correct. There are no obstacles. Move forward with confidence, as every action you take will be beneficial.
Six in the Third Place (六三)
Third line - Yin
"Comfortable approach. Nothing that would not be of advantage. If one is induced to grieve over it, one becomes free of blame."
The situation is so favorable that there is a danger of becoming too comfortable and complacent. This easy success could lead you astray. However, if you recognize this danger and feel a sense of concern or "grief" over it, you correct your attitude and thus remain blameless.
Six in the Fourth Place (六四)
Fourth line - Yin
"Complete approach. No blame."
You are in a position of authority and you correctly trust the capable and rising forces below you (the yang lines). By approaching them, recognizing their value, and working with them, you act wisely and effectively. This is a blameless and successful form of delegation.
Six in the Fifth Place (六五)
Fifth line - Yin
"Wise approach. This is the way of a great prince. Good fortune."
This represents the ideal leader. You do not handle everything yourself but have the wisdom to delegate to the most capable people. This wise, trusting, and empowering approach is the hallmark of a truly great leader and brings great good fortune to all.
Six at the Top (上六)
Top line - Yin
"Great-hearted approach. Good fortune. No blame."
This is the wisdom of a sage or mentor who has withdrawn from the world but returns out of compassion to teach and guide others. This approach is generous, selfless, and motivated by a great heart. It brings blessings to all and is entirely blameless.
Love & Relationships (爱情)
This is an excellent hexagram for love. It signifies a time of joyful growth and deepening connection. One partner may be benevolently nurturing the other, or you may both be approaching a new, more committed phase of your relationship. It is a time filled with generosity, care, and mutual appreciation. If you are single, a wonderful new person may be approaching you. Be open and receptive.
Career & Business (事业)
A period of significant opportunity and advancement is at hand. Your influence is growing. If you are a leader, engage with your team, mentor them, and share your vision. If you are an employee, your talents will be recognized. This is a good time to ask for a promotion, launch a new initiative, or take on more responsibility. Act now to capitalize on this favorable climate.
Health & Wellness (健康)
This hexagram signifies an approaching wave of vitality and well-being. It is an excellent time to start new health routines, as your body will respond very positively. The energy for healing and growth is strong. Nurture your body with good food and rest, and you will see significant improvements in your overall health.
Financial Matters (财运)
Prosperity is approaching. This is a favorable time for investments, business expansion, and increasing your income. Opportunities for financial growth will present themselves. The advice is to be proactive and make wise use of these opportunities, while also remembering that this peak period will not last forever. Save and invest wisely for the future.
Personal Growth (个人成长)
Growth comes from a dual role: being open to guidance from those more experienced than you, and being willing to benevolently teach and guide those who are less experienced. It is a time to both learn and to share. Embrace the role of mentor or student with an open and generous heart. This exchange is the foundation of true wisdom.
Timing & Advice (时机与建议)
The time to act is now. This is a powerful, but limited, window of opportunity. Do not delay. The main advice is to engage: engage with your community, your team, your partner, and your own potential. Lead with a generous spirit and be open to the blessings that are approaching you. Make the most of this fortunate "springtime."
