Hexagram 24
Return (Fù)
Above: Earth · Below: Thunder
In the coldest days, spring is already on its way
Video
The judgment
What must come back returns after its full turn. Coming and going are safe, and you can move forward again.
The Image: Thunder within the earth: return. So at the winter solstice the ancient kings closed the passes; merchants did not travel, and the ruler did not tour the lands.
From the ancient texts
Shao Yong
Cycling round and returning; new life stirs again. Success is in sight — impatience will ruin it.
Jiao’s Forest of Changes
The armies of Zhou march against Zhou of Shang and win at Muye. At dawn on the jiazi day, all under heaven rejoice.
The Zhou army defeats the tyrant at Muye just as day breaks, and the whole land begins to rejoice.
Takashima
- On fortune: good luck has just begun to return but has not yet taken off. Wait quietly, and good fortune will come naturally.
- On business: your goods are all in place and prices are starting to move. Hold off selling for now and you will surely profit.
Five common questions
Timing
Good luck returning; wait quietly
Health
Sleep early in winter; strength returns slowly
Money
Goods ready; hold off selling for now
Home
Wait until spring to move
Love
The matchmaker not yet sent; spring will bring it
The health notes are traditional observations to reflect on. If you feel unwell, follow your doctor’s advice.
The six lines
- Nine at the beginning: Returning before going far. No great regret. Supreme good fortune.
- Six in the second place: A quiet, gracious return. Good fortune.
- Six in the third place: Returning again and again. Danger, but no blame.
- Six in the fourth place: Walking in the midst of others, one returns alone.
- Six in the fifth place: A wholehearted return. No regret.
- Six at the top: Missing the return. Misfortune and calamity. If armies are sent out, they will end in great defeat, bringing misfortune to the ruler; for ten years one will be unable to march.
Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.