I Ching 25.1 - Innocence, Line 1

Hexagram 25, Line 1

Innocence (无妄)

Hexagram Symbol

初九:无妄

The Line Text

初九:无妄,往吉。

The first nine: Innocence. To go forward brings good fortune.

The Commentary says: The commentary says: When one goes forward in innocence, one attains one's will.

Interpretation

This first line of Hexagram 25, a strong yang line at the beginning of the action, embodies the purest form of Innocence (Wú Wàng). It represents a state of being free from ulterior motives, contrivance, and delusion. The energy is fresh, spontaneous, and aligned with the natural order of things. The advice is unequivocal: move forward. Action taken from this state of pure-hearted, uncalculated sincerity is in harmony with the Tao. It is not about naivete, but about a profound inner truth that guides your steps. The commentary reinforces this by stating that by proceeding in this way, you will "attain your will." This is not the fulfillment of a selfish ego's desire, but the natural achievement of an aspiration that is already in sync with the greater good. Your innate, authentic drive is your most reliable compass, and trusting it now will lead to success and auspicious outcomes.

Guidance for Action

Your initial impulse is the correct one. Do not hesitate, overthink, or second-guess yourself. The time for complex strategies and careful deliberation will come later; for now, the power lies in spontaneous, sincere action. Trust your gut feelings and act on them directly. Be transparent and authentic in all your dealings. Let go of any desire to manipulate situations or people. The simplest, most honest path is the best one. Embrace the situation with an open heart and a clear conscience, and proceed with confidence. Your purity of intention is your greatest strength and will ensure a positive result.

For Love & Relationships

This is a highly auspicious line for matters of the heart. If you are single, this is a sign to act on a genuine attraction. Approach the person you are interested in with sincerity and without playing games. Your authentic self is what will be most attractive. If you are in a relationship, this line calls for a return to the simple, pure affection that first brought you together. Let go of complications and past grievances. A spontaneous gesture of love, a heartfelt conversation, or a simple, shared moment of joy will be incredibly powerful. Moving forward from a place of genuine love and honest intention—whether it's taking the next step or simply expressing your feelings—will bring great happiness.

For Career & Business

In your professional life, this line signals a green light for new beginnings. If you have a new idea, a project you're passionate about, or an opportunity to take on a new role, now is the time to move forward with enthusiasm. Success will come not from political maneuvering or complex schemes, but from genuine effort and integrity. Trust your professional instincts. If a path feels right and aligns with your core values, pursue it directly. Your sincerity and transparent work ethic will be noticed and rewarded. Avoid office gossip and manipulative tactics; focus on doing good, honest work. This straightforward approach will lead to the fulfillment of your career aspirations.

For Financial Matters

This line advises a simple and honest approach to your finances. It is a favorable time to act on a straightforward financial plan, such as starting a savings account, investing in a stable and ethical fund you truly believe in, or making a plan to pay off debt. Steer clear of "get-rich-quick" schemes, overly speculative ventures, or any financial dealings that feel morally ambiguous. Your success in this area depends on your clear conscience. Trust your common sense and your intuition. Actions taken with integrity and without the taint of excessive greed will lead to security and good fortune.

Use our professional Yili School I Ching divination tool


Get a free I-Ching reading with our professional divination tool. Whether you cast the lines yourself or use an electronic method, our tool provides an authentic analysis based on the traditional Yili School philosophy. Simply cast the six lines with three coins to receive your original and changed hexagrams, complete with detailed interpretations from the classic texts. This service is always free.

Professional I Ching
Feng Shui Source
Rotating background pattern