Hexagram 22
Grace
贲 (Bì)
Mountain over Fire
The image is of fire at the base of a mountain, illuminating it and making it beautiful. This hexagram symbolizes the principle of grace and adornment. Just as the fire's light beautifies the mountain, so too does conscious refinement enhance natural substance. It signifies a time for cultivating beauty, elegance, and form, but warns that adornment should never overshadow the underlying truth and substance. True beauty is a harmony of inner worth and outer presentation.
Key Concepts
The Judgment (彖传)
The hexagram suggests that paying attention to form and beauty brings success, but primarily in smaller matters. Grace and elegance are like ornaments; they can beautify and smooth social interactions, but they are not the fundamental substance. Major undertakings require more than just a pleasing appearance; they demand solid substance and earnestness. Therefore, use grace and refinement, but do not mistake the decoration for the essential reality.
The Image (象传)
The light from a fire at the base of a mountain illuminates its immediate surroundings beautifully but does not shine far. Similarly, a graceful form and polished presentation are effective for clarifying everyday matters and administrative tasks. However, for deciding significant, contentious issues, one must rely on substance, truth, and profound earnestness, not just superficial elegance.
Interpretation & Guidance
When you receive Hexagram 22, you are encouraged to pay attention to the beauty and form of things. It is a time for refinement, artistry, and adding elegance to your life and work. However, the core message is about balance. True grace comes from inner substance shining through a pleasing exterior. Be wary of becoming superficial or being deceived by appearances that lack depth. Cultivate your inner character as much as your outer presentation. The goal is not to create a false facade, but to allow your authentic self to be expressed in a beautiful and harmonious way.
The Six Lines (六爻)
Nine at the Beginning (初九)
Bottom line - Yang
"He lends grace to his toes, leaves the carriage, and walks."
This line suggests humility and integrity. One has the option of taking an easier, more prestigious path (the carriage), but chooses a more humble and authentic one (walking). This adherence to what is right, rather than what is merely convenient or for show, is a form of true grace. It is about standing on your own two feet and relying on your own strength.
Six in the Second Place (六二)
Second line - Yin
"Lends grace to the beard on his chin."
The beard is an ornament that depends on the chin for its existence; it is not independent. This line warns against focusing on superficial adornments for their own sake. True grace is an attribute of a more fundamental substance. It signifies that one's actions and appearance should follow and be in service to something more essential, rather than being a vain display.
Six in the Third Place (六三)
Third line - Yin
"Graceful and moist. Constant perseverance brings good fortune."
This line depicts a pleasant and perhaps indulgent situation. There is a charm that can be captivating, but also a danger of becoming lost in comfort or denial. The advice is to remain persevering and grounded in what is real and true. Enjoy the beauty of the moment, but do not let it lead to laziness or a loss of purpose.
Nine in the Fourth Place (九四)
Fourth line - Yang
"Grace or simplicity? A white horse comes as if on wings. He is not a robber, he will woo at the right time."
Here, a choice arises between elaborate ornamentation and pure simplicity. The "white horse" symbolizes simplicity, speed, and purity. Though renouncing external brilliance may be disappointing at first, a sincere and true connection appears. This line suggests that choosing authenticity over a flashy facade leads to a genuine and fortunate union.
Six in the Fifth Place (六五)
Fifth line - Yin
"Grace in the hills and gardens. The roll of silk is meager and small. Humiliation, but in the end good fortune."
You may feel that what you have to offer is simple or modest ("meager roll of silk") compared to the grandeur of the situation. However, sincerity and inner worth shine through. Though there may be some initial insecurity or "humiliation," your authenticity will be recognized and ultimately lead to good fortune.
Nine at the Top (上九)
Top line - Yang
"Simple grace. No blame."
At this highest stage, all superficial ornamentation is abandoned. True beauty is found in pure, unadorned simplicity. This represents the highest form of grace, where substance and form are one, and inner character radiates naturally without any need for external decoration. This is blameless and leads to the fulfillment of one's aims.
Love & Relationships (爱情)
In love, this hexagram points to a time of attraction and warmth. It encourages expressing affection through charm, kindness, and genuine emotional connection. However, it also carries a warning not to be fooled by superficial beauty or a polished exterior. True, lasting love is based on inner beauty and authenticity, not just outward appearances. Strive for a relationship where both inner substance and outer grace are in harmony.
Career & Business (事业)
This hexagram is favorable for fields that involve aesthetics, creativity, and presentation, such as the arts, marketing, or design. It suggests that adding a touch of elegance and creativity to your work can lead to success. However, be cautious of ventures that seem too good to be true. Ensure that a polished presentation is backed by solid, substantial work. True success comes from balancing style with substance.
Health & Wellness (健康)
This hexagram suggests that true well-being comes from inner harmony, not just a healthy-looking exterior. It may also point to a need to release pent-up emotions. Hiding feelings behind a graceful facade can negatively affect your nervous system. Allowing for authentic emotional expression can relieve stress and benefit your overall health.
Financial Matters (财运)
Financially, this hexagram suggests success in ventures related to beauty and art. There may be profits, but the advice is to be discerning. Do not be swayed by a "get rich quick" scheme that is all surface and no substance. While a good presentation is important, ensure your financial decisions are based on the true underlying value of an investment, not just its attractive packaging. It is a time for prudence, making sure that inner worth matches outer appearance.
Personal Growth (个人成长)
Personal growth lies in cultivating both your inner and outer self. It is a call to develop inner qualities like kindness, integrity, and humility, while also paying attention to how you present yourself to the world. True elegance is the authentic expression of a well-cultivated character. The goal is to close the gap between who you are and how you appear, so that your outer grace is a true reflection of your inner light.
Timing & Advice (时机与建议)
This is a time to focus on aesthetics, refinement, and presentation. However, this should be applied to smaller matters, while larger decisions require a focus on substance. Adorn your life and actions with grace and beauty, but do not lose sight of what is real and essential. The best path is one of simplicity and authenticity. Let your inner worth shine through, and you will find success and harmony.
