Hexagram 56
The Wanderer
旅 (Lǚ)
Fire over Mountain
The image is of Fire burning on a Mountain. A grass fire on a mountain does not last long in one place; it burns what it can and moves on. This symbolizes the transient nature of the wanderer or traveler. The Fire (clarity, awareness) rests temporarily on the Mountain (stillness, a place of rest). This represents the traveler who finds a temporary lodging but remains mindful that it is not a permanent home.
Key Concepts
The Judgment (彖传)
As an outsider or stranger, one cannot make grand demands or act with arrogance. Success is found in being modest, adaptable, and courteous ("success through smallness"). By remaining correct in one's conduct, being patient, and paying careful attention to propriety, the wanderer can navigate their transient situation successfully and find good fortune, even without the security of a permanent home.
The Image (象传)
Just as a fire on a mountain is a transient event that should be dealt with quickly, the superior man, when handling legal matters, acts with clarity and caution. He does not allow disputes to drag on indefinitely. He makes a clear and fair judgment and moves on. He does not make a permanent "home" in the conflict but resolves it with speed and justice, reflecting the wanderer's need to settle matters and continue his journey.
Interpretation & Guidance
You are currently in a situation where you are an outsider, a "wanderer." You may be in a new job, a new city, or simply feel like you don't belong where you are. Lacking a firm footing, your strategy must be one of caution, modesty, and adaptability. Do not get involved in local conflicts. Do not be arrogant. Pay careful attention to social etiquette and be respectful to those around you. By behaving as a good guest, you can navigate this period safely. Remember that your situation is temporary; do not try to put down permanent roots just yet.
The Six Lines (六爻)
Six at the Beginning (初六)
Bottom line - Yin
"The wanderer is preoccupied with trivial things. He draws misfortune upon himself."
As a newcomer in a vulnerable position, if you involve yourself in petty squabbles and insignificant matters, you will make a poor impression and alienate those who could help you. This conduct brings misfortune upon yourself.
Six in the Second Place (六二)
Second line - Yin
"The wanderer comes to an inn. He has his property with him. He wins the steadfastness of a young servant."
You find a temporary place of rest and shelter. By being modest, correct, and trustworthy, you gain the loyalty and assistance of someone in your new environment. This provides a small but valuable measure of security.
Nine in the Third Place (九三)
Third line - Yang
"The wanderer's inn burns down. He loses the steadfastness of his young servant. Danger."
You behave with arrogance and aggression, meddling in affairs that are not your concern. This hostile attitude destroys your safe haven ("the inn burns") and alienates your only ally. You are now isolated and in danger due to your own misconduct.
Nine in the Fourth Place (九四)
Fourth line - Yang
"The wanderer rests in a shelter. He gets his property and an ax. My heart is not glad."
You have managed to secure a temporary position and have the resources to sustain yourself. However, you remain an outsider and must stay on guard ("an ax"). While you have found physical security, there is no real sense of belonging or inner joy in this situation.
Six in the Fifth Place (六五)
Fifth line - Yin
"He shoots a pheasant. He loses his arrow. In the end this brings him praise and office."
You make a skillful and appropriate gesture to win favor with the local powers. The pheasant is a gift, and the "lost arrow" is the small price you pay. This act of courtesy and respect is recognized, and you are finally accepted, gaining praise and a secure position.
Top Nine (上九)
Top line - Yang
"The bird's nest burns up... The wanderer laughs at first, then must lament... He loses his cow through carelessness. Misfortune."
This line warns against the arrogance that can come from being detached. You see the misfortune of others ("the nest burns") and feel superior. But this same carelessness and lack of empathy leads to your own downfall. You lose your means of subsistence ("the cow") and end in misfortune.
Love & Relationships (爱情)
This hexagram can indicate a relationship that feels transient or where one partner feels like an outsider. There is a lack of a shared "home." The advice is to act with great care and propriety. Do not make heavy demands or try to force a deeper commitment. Behave like a respectful guest. It can also describe a relationship with someone who is emotionally unavailable or unable to settle down, a perpetual wanderer.
Career & Business (事业)
This points to being in a new role, a temporary contract, or working in a foreign environment. You are an outsider and do not have an established position. Success depends on your ability to adapt, be respectful of the existing culture, and avoid conflict. Focus on doing your work well ("success through smallness") and do not try to make big waves. Be cautious and courteous.
Health & Wellness (健康)
As a wanderer, you are away from your normal supports and routines, which can affect your health. This hexagram advises taking extra precautions with your well-being. Pay close attention to your body's needs. It can also suggest a feeling of alienation or disconnection from your own body. The path to wellness lies in cautious, mindful attention to the small details of self-care.
Financial Matters (财运)
Your financial situation is likely unstable or transient. You may be between jobs, working on a temporary basis, or otherwise lacking a secure foundation. It is crucial to be extremely frugal and careful with your money. "Success through smallness" means managing your limited resources with great care. Avoid large purchases or long-term financial commitments until your situation is more stable.
Personal Growth (个人成长)
The lesson of The Wanderer is learning to maintain your integrity and grace while outside of your comfort zone. Growth comes from developing the humility, adaptability, and self-restraint required to be a good "guest" in unfamiliar situations. It is the art of finding your inner center when there is no external stability to lean on. It teaches you to be self-reliant and mindful of your conduct at all times.
Timing & Advice (时机与建议)
You are in a temporary or unfamiliar situation. The correct strategy is to act like a cautious traveler. Be polite, adaptable, and observant. Do not get involved in local disputes or draw unnecessary attention to yourself. Handle matters with care and focus on small, achievable goals. This is not a time for bold moves or long-term commitments.
