Hexagram 37 - The Family - CHIA JÊN

Superior individuals can influence and promote the health of their family, country, and the world by working in a background position and relying on the power of inner truth.

Summary

This represents a solid and cohesive family unit. The image associated with this hexagram is that of a family gathered around a hearth, symbolising warmth, nourishment, and protection. The judgment for this hexagram states that "the family is the essential aspect of social organisation, and it is crucial to maintain harmony within the household.

Interpretation

Hexagram 37 emphasises the importance of cultivating healthy and harmonious relationships within the family unit, whether the biological family, the spiritual family or the human family. The hexagram teaches that to correct the world, the state, or the family; we must first correct ourselves. By focusing on self-correction, we can influence others through the power of our inner truth and inspire them to embody superior qualities.

A healthy family is characterised by three essential qualities: love, faithfulness, and correctness. When we love others, we are naturally kind and patient with them. When faithful to others, we prioritise principles and conduct above temporary influences like anger or greed. And when we practice correctness, we nourish ourselves and those around us spiritually. By cultivating these qualities within ourselves, we can inspire them in others and create a web of healthy relationships.

Hexagram 37 is associated with the Chinese character "家" (jiā), which means "home" or "family". It represents the importance of a solid and united family unit as the foundation of a stable community. It reminds us to focus on the needs of others, to be selfless in our actions, and to maintain continuity within the family line. Ultimately, we can create a stable and prosperous society by working towards a harmonious and supportive family unit.

Sage Advice

Cultivate a sense of unity and harmony within your family and community. This hexagram advises being respectful and considerate of others, supportive, and avoiding divisive behaviour. It also suggests being mindful of the health and well-being of your loved ones and nurturing relationships with them. Establishing a sense of order and stability in the home is essential so everyone can feel safe and secure. Overall, the advice is to cultivate a harmonious and loving family environment and nurture relationships with loved ones. Additionally, it's essential to develop a sense of humility and respect in all interactions and relationships and to be mindful of the power dynamics at play.

Line 1

If we want successful relationships, the first line advises us to be firm in our approach. It warns against giving in to the demands and tantrums of the ego, which can lead to misfortune. Instead, we should aim to meet others halfway without giving more or less than what is necessary. This means having clear boundaries and standing up for what we believe in while being willing to compromise and find common ground. We can build solid and healthy relationships with others within our family or the broader community by staying firm in our values and principles.

Line 2

Suggests that we should avoid the temptation to force our influence onto others and instead allow space for individual growth and self-discovery. It is essential to maintain self-discipline and avoid being driven by fleeting desires or whims that may distract us from our duties and responsibilities in the present moment. This requires humility and patience to remain in an insignificant position without seeking to be noticed or exerting our will upon others. However, when we hold onto correct thoughts and values and let go of the desire for control or self-importance, we can still positively impact those around us, albeit gently and steadily. We must also avoid dwelling on the past or fixating on the future and instead focus on the present moment and our direct relationships and responsibilities. Through this approach, we can cultivate a sense of inner peace and stability that can radiate outward and positively influence those around us.

Line 3

Highlights the importance of maintaining reserve when another person's ego becomes assertive. It is important to avoid engaging with their negative energy and to remain withdrawn and reserved until their Inferior Man is replaced by modesty. In some cases, this line also refers to our flare-up of temper and impatience with the time it takes to correct the situation. If we let these negative emotions consume us, we risk driving away the guidance of the Sage. Maintaining a balanced and composed attitude is essential, especially when dealing with difficult personalities. Harshness and spinelessness can lead to misfortune, but by being gentle outwardly and firm within, we can successfully navigate difficult situations.

Line 4

Emphasises the importance of doing things for the right reasons and resisting the temptation to act out of self-interest. When we reflect on our motives and ensure they align with what is best for everyone involved, we create great good fortune for ourselves and those around us. It is essential to maintain inner balance, acceptance, and moral conduct to promote well-being in our lives and those we care about. This line encourages us to prioritise the welfare of others and to act in accordance with what is just and fair rather than focusing solely on our desires and interests. By doing so, we become a treasure to our community and cultivate an environment of great good fortune.

Line 5

Emphasises the importance of character and the influence it has on others. If a person has a good character, their impact will be felt. However, it is also important to disengage from those who do not share the same values and ideals. This allows one to increase their power and focus on their self-improvement. The Sage is an example of the selfless loyalty we should develop towards those in our charge, always caring and trusting in their superior potential. Disengaging from others is not a sign of indifference but rather a way to demonstrate that we cannot give up on the slightest remnant of what is good in them and that we believe in their potential to return to their true selves.

Line 6

Emphasises the importance of being firmly rooted in our highest nature and values and sticking to them even in the face of challenges and difficulties. We can create order and positively influence others by remaining faithful to our inner truth. This requires us to develop a sense of inner strength and resilience and to be willing to walk our path, even if it means leaving others behind. Good fortune is sure to follow when we are firmly and resolutely correct in our thoughts and actions. This is because inner truth and goodness can draw others and the Creative to our side. By embodying these qualities, we can inspire and uplift those around us and create a positive ripple effect far beyond our immediate sphere of influence.