Hexagram 54
The Marrying Maiden (Guī Mèi)
Above: Thunder · Below: Lake
What starts on impulse rarely lasts
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The Marrying Maiden (Guī Mèi)
Hexagram 54 · The Marrying Maiden (Guī Mèi) The judgment
Swept along by a sudden attraction — rushing ahead brings misfortune and no benefit.
The Image: Thunder over the lake: the marrying maiden. So the noble person keeps the long end in view and knows what can go wrong.
From the ancient texts
Shao Yong
Against the natural order, this road will run out. See things clearly and put an end to wild ideas.
Jiao’s Forest of Changes
… Not a grain of white rice in sight — only weeds and wild grass.
Not a single grain of rice to be seen — only weeds everywhere.
Takashima
- On fortune: things start moving all at once, but may not last.
- On marriage: a match driven only by the passion of the moment can hardly be expected to last a lifetime.
Five common questions
Timing
A sudden burst may not last
Health
Take extra care; family by your side
Money
Prices up for a while; don't chase them
Home
Close family still needs boundaries
Love
Look closely; not just the spark
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: The maiden marries as a junior wife. The lame can walk. Setting out brings good fortune.
- Nine in the second place: The one-eyed can see. Favorable for the steadfastness of a quiet, solitary person.
- Six in the third place: The maiden marries while waiting; she returns and marries as a junior wife.
- Nine in the fourth place: The maiden puts off her marriage; a late marriage comes in its own time.
- Six in the fifth place: Emperor Yi gives his younger sister in marriage. The bride's sleeves are not as fine as those of her bridesmaid. The moon is nearly full. Good fortune.
- Six at the top: The woman holds a basket with nothing in it; the man cuts the sheep, but no blood flows. Nothing is favorable.
Reminders from the ancients, offered for reflection only.