Hexagram 37, Line 5
The Family (家人)
九五:王假有家
The Line Text
九五:王假有家,勿恤,吉。
Nine in the fifth place: The king approaches his family. Have no worry. Good fortune.
The Commentary says: The Image says: "The king approaches his family" means that they are united by mutual love.
Interpretation
This line, occupying the central and most powerful position of the ruler, represents the pinnacle of leadership within the family or any organization. The "king" here is not a literal monarch but a metaphor for the head of the household or the leader of a group. This leader does not rule through force, decree, or fear, but through the magnetic power of their own character and sincere affection. The phrase "approaches his family" (王假有家 - wáng jiǎ yǒu jiā) signifies a leader who is fully present, embodying an ideal of integrity, responsibility, and warmth. Their influence is so profound and benevolent that it naturally creates harmony and order. Consequently, there is "no worry" (勿恤 - wù xù), because the foundation of the group is not fragile control but deep, mutual trust and love. This state of effortless, heartfelt order is the source of the ultimate "good fortune" (吉 - jí). The commentary reinforces this, stating the core mechanism is "mutual love" (交相愛也 - jiāo xiāng ài yě), a reciprocal exchange that binds the group together in a virtuous cycle of respect and care.
Guidance for Action
Your position of influence is best served not by issuing commands, but by embodying the values you wish to see in others. Lead with sincerity, integrity, and genuine care for the well-being of those in your circle (family, team, community). Your character is your most potent tool. Trust in the power of your positive example to create a harmonious and productive environment. Release the need to micromanage or worry about the outcome. If you have built the foundation on trust and mutual respect, things will naturally fall into place. Your main task is to be a stable, loving, and reliable center from which goodness and order can radiate.
For Love & Relationships
This is an exceptionally auspicious line for love and relationships. It signifies a partnership built on the strongest foundation: mutual love, respect, and profound trust. You or your partner (or both) are embodying the role of the "king"—a source of stability, security, and unconditional love. The relationship is not governed by insecurity, jealousy, or control, but by a deep, heartfelt connection. There is no need for worry or anxiety about the future of this bond. Trust in the love that you share. If you are single, this line encourages you to cultivate these "royal" qualities within yourself; this inner state of loving-kindness and self-respect will naturally attract a partner worthy of such a connection.
For Career & Business
In a career context, this line points to ideal leadership. If you are in a management or leadership position, this is a call to lead with heart and integrity. Your team's loyalty and productivity will stem from the respect and trust you cultivate, not from fear or pressure. Create a company culture that feels like a supportive family. If you are an employee, you may be fortunate to work under such a leader, in a workplace characterized by mutual support and respect. In either case, the advice is to act from a place of sincerity and to trust your colleagues. This approach will lead to great success and a harmonious work environment. Worrying about office politics is unnecessary; focus on authentic contribution and building genuine connections.
For Financial Matters
This line indicates a state of financial stability and security built on a foundation of wisdom and responsibility. You are the "king" of your own financial domain. Your financial house is in order because you have managed your resources with foresight, prudence, and integrity, not with fear or greed. There is no need to worry about your financial future. Trust in the sound principles and structures you have put in place. This could manifest as a well-managed family budget, a successful family business, or a stable investment portfolio. The good fortune indicated is not a sudden windfall, but the deserved prosperity that comes from consistent, wise, and responsible stewardship.