Hexagram 5
Waiting (Xū)
Above: Water · Below: Heaven
The time hasn't come yet — waiting is a skill too
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Waiting (Xū)
Hexagram 5 · Waiting (Xū) The judgment
With sincerity in your heart and patience to wait, things will come to light and go well. You will be able to cross the great river.
The Image: Clouds rise up to the sky: waiting. So the noble person eats, drinks, and is at ease.
From the ancient texts
Shao Yong
Danger lies ahead, and obstacles stop the way. Great talents mature late; the harvest comes later.
Jiao’s Forest of Changes
Three long years of drought; grass and trees will not grow. The offering vessels stand empty, with nothing to offer the spirits.
Three years without rain — not even grain left for the offerings. That is what waiting for rain feels like.
Takashima
- On trade: the clouds are up but the rain has not fallen — perhaps the capital has not yet been gathered.
- On career and recognition: the winds and clouds have not yet come together; there is still something to wait for.
Five common questions
Timing
Not yet time; wait rather than advance
Health
Eat in moderation; heal slowly
Money
Capital not yet gathered; act when ready
Home
Keep life steady; put off big decisions
Love
Love comes later; patience will win
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: Waiting in the outskirts. It is favorable to persevere. No blame.
- Nine in the second place: Waiting on the sand. A little gossip, but good fortune in the end.
- Nine in the third place: Waiting in the mud invites the robbers in.
- Six in the fourth place: Waiting in blood. Get out of the pit.
- Nine in the fifth place: Waiting with food and wine. Steadfastness brings good fortune.
- Six at the top: One falls into the pit. Three uninvited guests arrive; treat them with respect, and in the end there is good fortune.
Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.