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#20

Contemplation (View)

觀 — Guān
Upper trigram: Wind (Xùn) · Lower trigram: Earth (Kūn)

Overall meaning

Hexagram Contemplation symbolizes observation, contemplation, and the exemplary. Upper trigram is Wind (penetrating), lower is Earth — wind blowing across the land, reaching everywhere. This is the hexagram of clear observation, the moral example, and broad vision.

Judgment text (Thoán từ)

Contemplation: the ablution has been made, but not yet the offering — sincere yet dignified. The ritual of contemplation — display one's virtue for others to behold.

Line texts (6 lines)

  1. 1
    First Six: Childlike contemplation — for the small person no blame, for the superior person regret. Shallow vision is no fault for the common, but the superior person must see deeper.
  2. 2
    Second Six: Contemplation through the crack of the door — furthering to women's perseverance. Limited view, suited only to the small affairs of the household, not to great matters.
  3. 3
    Third Six: Contemplation of one's life — to advance and retreat accordingly. Examine the inner self to decide whether to advance or retreat.
  4. 4
    Fourth Six: Contemplation of the splendor of the kingdom — it furthers one to be a guest of the king. The broad-visioned are employed at the highest level.
  5. 5
    Fifth Nine: Contemplation of one's life — the superior person no blame. Examine if your life is worthy — the superior person has nothing to be ashamed of.
  6. 6
    Top Nine: Contemplation of their lives — the superior person no blame. Observe others' lives and learn — the superior person remains without blame.

Applications by topic

Marriage
Observe and understand the partner before deciding. Examine yourself to be a worthy spouse. Being exemplary is the best attraction.
Career
Observe carefully before acting. Learn from those who came before. Improve yourself to become an example to others.
Wealth
Research thoroughly before investing. Observe market trends from many angles. Learn from others' successes and failures.
Health
Pay attention to body signals. Monitor health periodically. Learn from others' experience of healthy living.
Lawsuit
Gather information and observe carefully before acting. Understand the opposition and the arbiter. Honestly assess your strengths and weaknesses.

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