Hexagram 20
Contemplation (Guān)
Above: Wind · Below: Earth
Look clearly first, then act
Video
The judgment
Solemn as the moment of washing one's hands before an offering — sincerity shows on your face, and everyone can see it.
The Image: The wind moves over the earth: contemplation. So the ancient kings traveled through the lands, observed the people, and set up teaching.
From the ancient texts
Shao Yong
Looking up from below; traveling about and observing. Stay calm and even-tempered, and hold your post.
Jiao’s Forest of Changes
At the foot of Mount Li lived Shun of Yu. He farmed with his own hands and served his parents with devotion, and his name was known across the four seas.
Shun farmed at the foot of Mount Li and cared for his parents, and his good name spread across the land.
Takashima
- On fortune: now is the time to rouse yourself and act. Go out and see the world rather than shutting yourself in.
- On business: in trading imported goods, guard against risk.
Five common questions
Timing
Go out and look; don't shut yourself in
Health
Watch for rheumatism; keep the joints moving
Money
Distant goods are risky; watch first
Home
Elders set the example; lead by doing
Love
Time reveals the heart; keep observing
The health notes are traditional observations to reflect on. If you feel unwell, follow your doctor’s advice.
The six lines
- Six at the beginning: Looking like a child. For a petty person, no blame; for the noble person, humiliation.
- Six in the second place: Peeping through the door. Favorable for a woman's steadfastness.
- Six in the third place: Contemplating one's own life, one decides whether to advance or retreat.
- Six in the fourth place: Contemplating the light of the kingdom. It is favorable to be a guest of the king.
- Nine in the fifth place: Contemplating one's own life. The noble person is without blame.
- Nine at the top: Contemplating others' lives. The noble person is without blame.
Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.