Hexagram 22 - Grace - PI

Internally, there is great power in embracing simplicity and self-awareness. Externally, there is beauty in demonstrating acceptance and gentleness towards others.

Summary

Represents the idea of grace and adornment. It suggests that by adorning oneself with good deeds, one can gain the favour of others. The key takeaways from the judgment and image are that one should strive to be upright and honourable and that this will lead to success and good fortune.

Interpretation

Hexagram 22 can be seen as a representation of the different aspects of grace, both false and true. False grace involves actions motivated by the ego's desire for adornment and the projection of an idealised self-image. This can involve contrived solutions to problems, brilliance, and fixed or conventional approaches to situations.

On the other hand, true grace involves possessing an open mind, humility, simplicity, and acceptance. This means relinquishing the ego's defence mechanisms and striving for a deeper connection with the unknown or higher power. By letting go of the need for control and focusing on inner strength, we can cultivate a grace that dissolves barriers and leads to ongoing good fortune.

The hexagram advises against indulging in false grace and encourages us to cultivate true grace in our relationships and daily life. This involves being upright, honourable, and humble and avoiding arrogance and boastfulness. The hexagram suggests that success and good fortune can be achieved by following these principles and striving for balance in all aspects of life. Overall, the hexagram reminds us to be mindful of our behaviour and strive towards a deeper connection with the universe, letting go of our ego's desire for control and allowing things to unfold naturally.

Sage Advice

Advices cultivating humility, gratitude, and generosity, letting go of the ego and opening to the universe's blessings. Trust the natural flow, release control, and attachment. Be open to guidance and grateful for what you receive. Be generous and compassionate to attract good fortune. The hexagram is associated with humility, receptivity, and accepting help from others. Approach life with a humble attitude, trust in goodness and support available and ask for help when needed. Express gratitude for the help received and be gracious.

Line 1

Refers to the importance of beginning any endeavour with care and humility. It is a reminder that we should not assume that we know all the answers or that we need to force a solution. Instead, we should approach situations with modesty and a willingness to be guided by the unknown. The image of lending grace to one's toes and leaving the carriage behind represents a departure from using brilliant means to make progress. This refers to situations where we are using contrived or dubious means to achieve our goals rather than relying on simplicity and humility to find the correct way to proceed. The line encourages us to be cautious in our actions and to avoid assuming entitlements based on our roles as parents, teachers, or owners. True grace involves recognising our limitations and the potential for egotism in our assumptions of knowledge and authority. By remaining open and innocent, we allow inner truth to surface and guide us towards the correct path. In essence, the line encourages us to let go of the need for control and allow ourselves to be led by the unknown. By beginning with care and humility, we create a foundation for ongoing progress and success in our endeavours.

Line 2

Adorns his beard but forgets his chin. This line warns against paying too much attention to superficial appearances (the beard) while neglecting the more essential aspects (the chin). It is a reminder to focus on substance rather than style and not to be swayed by false appearances or surface-level judgments of others or situations. Additionally, it can suggest a tendency to prioritise personal image or self-presentation over inner authenticity and integrity. It is a call to return to what is essential and not be distracted by superficial adornments or distractions.

Line 3

Indicates a positive change in the situation, which may cause us to feel at ease and let our guard down. However, we should remain cautious and remember our obligation to maintain proper conduct with those who have not genuinely corrected their attitude towards us. It is essential to avoid becoming overconfident and forcing progress in a way that is not natural or aligned with the inner truth. We must remain disciplined and perseverant to maintain good fortune.

Line 4

In the face of temptation to rely on false brilliance, advantage, or force, it is important to remain humble and authentic to oneself. Modesty and innocence will prevent misfortune, and we should not underestimate the power of simplicity in achieving success. Instead of trying to plan and control everything, we should follow the way dictated by truth and accept not knowing the answers. It is enough to follow the good and retain our humility rather than thinking that we are good or enlightened. Sometimes, simplicity means we must be reserved with those who mistrust or are insensitive to us and proceed alone until the other person has become devoted to finding the truth within themselves. We should not be afraid of silence and remember that having nothing to say is not a weakness.

Line 5

Cultivate simplicity by relinquishing our self-defences, which may leave us vulnerable and at risk. The Sage recognises and honours our sincere effort to do what is right, even when it requires courage and self-sacrifice. Focus on cultivating inner worth instead of seeking external validation.

Line 6

The line suggests that when we let go of superficial adornments and the need for control and instead silence our ego-driven desires, we can appreciate the beauty and order of the universe while acknowledging our limitations. We can make genuine progress through simplicity, sincerity, and serenity by relinquishing leverage. We remain true to our values while adapting to the moment's needs and being ready to step back if necessary. This allows us to achieve greatness through the power of grace and acceptance, which surpasses false displays of strength. An alternative interpretation is the line speaks of the power that comes from accepting things as they are without trying to force our will upon them. When we surrender the need for control and embrace stillness and tranquillity, we tap into a deeper source of power that enables us to overcome obstacles easily. This power is rooted in acceptance and grace, and it can be accessed by letting go of our attachment to external forms of power and authority.