I Ching

Hexagram 57 — The Penetration Xun

Hexagram 57, The Penetration — the six lines

Classical meaning

Small success. It is favorable to undertake. It is favorable to see the great man.

巽。小亨。利有攸往。利見大人。

Image: Wind over wind: the image of penetration. The superior man strengthens commands and carries out his undertakings with perseverance.

It addresses subtle persistence, the influence that enters without force.

The six lines

Line 1. Penetration – Advances and retreats; it is favorable to the firmness of the warrior. Do not waver. Combine flexibility with a firm and ethical stance.
Line 2. Penetration – Under the bed. Employ scribes and shamans; though confused, it is auspicious. No guilt. Seek technical and spiritual support to deal with what is hidden. Method overcomes confusion.
Line 3. Penetration – Repeated yielding leads to humiliation. Set boundaries. Yielding without measure weakens your position.
Line 4. Penetration – Regret dissipates. In hunting, three kinds are obtained. Maintain constancy and diversify efforts. Rewards will come in more than one form.
Line 5. Penetration – Righteousness brings good fortune; regret dissipates. Nothing is unfavorable. No beginning, but with an outcome. Three days before geng and three days after geng: auspicious. Plan the moment in advance and conduct a subsequent review. Ritual timing (pre and post) consolidates success.
Line 6. Penetration – Beneath the bed, tools and resources are lost. Persisting in this is disastrous. Abandon hidden maneuvers. Bring things to light; only then can greater losses be avoided.
A reading for YOUR situation

3 open consultations free per day — or a custom question.

Start my consultation →