This week’s hexagram expresses a constellation of advice on the theme “holding firm”. It can be interpreted in multiple ways: holding together, holding back (restraint), and caring for others. It is presented in the image of a mountain, firm and still, with heavenly treasures hidden within.

Take this image to heart, it is true that storing power within us can sometimes be a challenge in itself. The directing mind will want to send it somewhere to the ease the pressure. Wait. There will come a time where an outlet is offered toward which this stored energy can be directed.

1st: 5,4,4 > Changing Yang
2nd: 9,4,8 > Stable Yang
3rd: 5,8,8 > Stable Yang
4th: 5,4,8 > Stable Yin
5th: 5,8,4 > Stable Yin
6th: 5,8,8 > Stable Yang

The hexagram for this week is Ta Ch’u, The Taming Power of the Great.

• Above: Ken, Mountain

• Below: Ch’ien, Heaven

The Taming Power of the Great. Perseverance furthers. Not eating at home brings good fortune. It furthers one to cross the great water.

The echo of today’s hexagram, created by the first yang line in change, is 18, Ku. This hexagram presents an image of decay, as yin has entered into the picture from below. This is perhaps why the specific advice for the first line in change emphasises restraint. The Oracle states:

Danger is at hand. It furthers one to desist.

This tension creates the somewhat conflicting guidance between going forward (as captured in the judgement telling us it is OK to cross the great water), and holding back (described here). On balance, restraint emerges as the right path. It is much better for one to compose themself and wait for an opportunity to be offered. It may well come later this week.

Blessings to you all.