Hexagram 58
The Joyous (Lake)
兑 (Duì)
Lake over Lake
The image is of two lakes joined together, their waters flowing into and refreshing one another. This symbolizes the joyous communication between friends. As they share knowledge and ideas, they stimulate and enrich each other's lives. This hexagram represents the power of shared happiness, open communication, and the encouragement that friends provide for mutual growth.
Key Concepts
The Judgment (彖传)
The Judgment affirms that joy is a powerful and successful force. However, it is not a frivolous or weak emotion. True joy must be based on an inner foundation of firmness and correctness. Perseverance in what is right is what makes joy a lasting and influential power. Pleasure that is not grounded in strength and integrity is fleeting and can lead one astray. A firm and gentle spirit is the source of true joyousness.
The Image (象传)
The Image shows that true joy and learning are amplified through sharing. Just as the connected lakes enrich each other, the superior man seeks out the company of friends. Together, they engage in stimulating discussion and shared practice of what they have learned. This mutual exchange is a source of joy and a catalyst for continuous learning and self-improvement for everyone involved.
Interpretation & Guidance
This is a highly positive and sociable time. The hexagram encourages you to seek out and share joy with others. Connect with friends, engage in stimulating and uplifting conversations, and encourage each other's growth. Your happiness will be contagious and will create a positive feedback loop. The only caution is to ensure that your pleasure is grounded in sincerity and inner strength, not in superficial indulgence. True success comes from sharing a joy that is based on what is right and enduring.
The Six Lines (六爻)
Nine at the Beginning (初九)
Bottom line - Yang
"Contented joyousness. Good fortune."
You experience a quiet, calm joy that comes from within. It is not dependent on external people or things. This serene and self-contained contentment is the purest form of joy and is a source of great good fortune.
Nine in the Second Place (九二)
Second line - Yang
"Sincere joyousness. Good fortune. Remorse disappears."
Your joy springs from your sincere and strong inner character. Because it is genuine, it brings good fortune and washes away any past regrets. You must remain true to yourself and not be tempted by lower, unworthy pleasures.
Six in the Third Place (六三)
Third line - Yin
"Coming joyousness. Misfortune."
This describes a hollow joy that is sought from the outside. You are looking for entertainment and pleasure to come to you, which leaves you empty and dependent. This pursuit of superficial distraction is a source of misfortune.
Nine in the Fourth Place (九四)
Fourth line - Yang
"Joyousness in deliberation... In ridding oneself of what is bad, one has peace."
You are struggling to decide between higher, meaningful joys and lower, tempting pleasures. You have not yet made up your mind. By firmly and decisively rejecting the unworthy path, you will find true inner peace and contentment.
Nine in the Fifth Place (九五)
Fifth line - Yang
"Sincerity toward what is disintegrating is dangerous."
You are in a position of influence but are placing your trust in a charming but corrupting person or idea. This sincere trust is misplaced. Continuing to associate with this disintegrating element is dangerous and will have negative consequences.
Top Six (上六)
Top line - Yin
"Seductive joyousness."
You have given yourself over entirely to the pursuit of superficial pleasure and are leading others into this indulgence. This is a seductive but ultimately empty form of joy that has lost its connection to any inner substance. It is a state of being led astray by pleasure.
Love & Relationships (爱情)
This is an excellent hexagram for a relationship, signifying a time of shared happiness, delightful conversation, and mutual encouragement. It's a period to enjoy each other's company, to be playful, and to communicate openly. The joy you share will strengthen your bond. The only guidance is to ensure this happiness springs from a deep and sincere connection, not just from superficial fun and games.
Career & Business (事业)
The Joyous points to a positive, collaborative, and communicative work environment. Success will come from teamwork, open discussion, and brainstorming with colleagues. It is a great time to boost team morale and encourage the free exchange of ideas. A pleasant and encouraging atmosphere in the workplace will lead to increased creativity and productivity.
Health & Wellness (健康)
Joy itself is a powerful healing force. This hexagram suggests that laughter, positive social interaction, and a cheerful state of mind are vital for your well-being. The trigram Dui also relates to the mouth, advising you to take pleasure in speaking kindly and eating nourishing, delicious food. A joyful spirit is the foundation of good health.
Financial Matters (财运)
This can be a time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. However, there is a caution. True financial joy comes from a stable and secure foundation. Be wary of "coming joyousness"—the temptation of frivolous spending on fleeting pleasures. Enjoy your prosperity, but remain grounded and avoid impulsive financial decisions.
Personal Growth (个人成长)
The lesson of The Joyous is about the nature of true happiness. Personal growth comes from discovering that lasting joy is an inside job, a state of serene contentment that is not dependent on external circumstances. Once this inner joy is cultivated, it can be shared with others through encouraging communication and mutual learning. It is the art of finding happiness within and then amplifying it through friendship.
Timing & Advice (时机与建议)
This is a time for joy, communication, and friendship. Reach out to others. Share your happiness and engage in stimulating, uplifting conversations. Your positive attitude is a source of strength and will lead to success. Ensure your joy is based on sincerity and inner correctness. Celebrate and connect.
