Hexagram 5 - Waiting (Nourishment) - HSÜ

The correct attitude of waiting can be a powerful tool in achieving creative success. It invites the assistance and guidance of a higher power to aid in the creative process. One can achieve great things by remaining patient and receptive to the wisdom and inspiration that may come. 

Summary

It represents waiting for the right moment to act and being patient. According to the Judgment of this hexagram, the key to success is patience and sincerity. By waiting with a sincere and open heart, one can gain the clarity and insight needed to overcome obstacles and achieve success. Perseverance in the face of challenges will ultimately lead to good fortune. This hexagram also suggests that one may need to cross a great divide, such as a difficult obstacle or a significant change in one's life, and that by doing so with the right attitude and perseverance, one can reach a successful outcome.

Interpretation

This represents the power of patience and perseverance in facing challenges. The image of steam rising up to form clouds symbolises the creative energy that comes from maintaining a correct "waiting attitude." This attitude is characterised by modesty and inner independence. By holding to these principles, we can avoid doubt and impatience and cultivate the attributes that accumulate energy that lead to progress.

As described in the hexagram, the superior man eats and drinks with joy and good cheer and maintains a cheerful and detached attitude while holding to his principles. Allows the force of inner truth to penetrate and influence everything that needs to be changed gradually. Rushing or forcing changes will only lead to surface reforms that do not endure.

However, we often receive this hexagram when our waiting attitude becomes incorrect and progress halts. It may be due to doubts or fears that arise from our inferior selves or ego, leading to impatience and a loss of inner independence. These doubts can be perceived by others and arouse their distrust. It is essential to recognise and deal with these negative influences and hold firm against them.

Overall, hexagram 5 reminds us that progress is a gradual process and that actual change comes from maintaining a correct waiting attitude, being patient and persevering, and avoiding the pitfalls of doubt, impatience, and the desire to rush or force things. It also advises the pitfalls of a negative attitude and to be cautious in our interactions with others.

Sage Advice

Be humble, be patient, seek guidance, and be aware of one's limitations. It is essential to take time, reflect and be honest with yourself so that when the opportunity comes, you are prepared to take action and persevere through the challenges that may come your way. As a leader, it is vital to be cautious and humble, aware of one's limitations, and seek guidance from others. It is also essential to be mindful of the needs and concerns of those being led, strive to build trust and cooperation, maintain a balance between assertiveness and flexibility in decision-making, and be prepared to handle potential conflicts. This advice can be applied in many aspects of life and can be seen as a guide for self-improvement and inner growth.

Line 1

Prepare for the challenge by focusing on what is enduring and essential. Trust in your inner strength and stay open to the unexpected.

Line 2

Waiting in uncertainty can be difficult, but it is essential to trust in the process and not let doubt cloud your judgement. When faced with an impending challenge, remaining still and grounded in your beliefs is crucial, rather than succumbing to fear and uncertainty. Take a step back and let events unfold naturally without trying to control the outcome. Trust in the journey and believe that the right path will reveal itself. Avoid being swayed by the opinions of others, and stay true to yourself. You can navigate the challenge with grace and resilience by cultivating humility, correctness, and stillness.

Line 3

Waiting in the mud brings the arrival of the enemy. Indulging in a careless attitude invites challenges and obstacles to our progress. Maintaining an unwavering and correct mindset is vital in avoiding self-doubt and self-indulgence. Waiting in the mud represents allowing negative thoughts and emotions to cloud our judgement and lead us astray. It is crucial to resist the temptation to give in to these negative patterns and stay true to our principles to avoid negative consequences.

Line 4

Beware of using force to achieve your goals. Waiting in blood suggests a vengeful attitude towards others or a feeling of being wronged by fate. This kind of mindset can lead to destructive actions and ultimately harm oneself. Instead, it is better to retreat from these negative emotions and let fate take its course. Remember to maintain humility and avoid challenging the natural order of things, as it can lead to dire consequences.

Line 5

Savour the momentary calm and take it as an opportunity to strengthen yourself for what lies ahead. Perseverance in the face of adversity and steadfast adherence to discipline and correctness will bring about good fortune in the long run. Do not let complacency dull your vigilance, but use this respite to fortify your resolve and ready yourself for the next test.

Line 6

Despite our best efforts, we may fall into a pit of despair. But even in these dire circumstances, growth opportunities can present themselves unexpectedly. Three uninvited guests may arrive, representing new perspectives or paths to explore. Instead of rejecting them, we should honour and embrace these unexpected developments. Through open-mindedness and perseverance, we can find a way out of our predicament and ultimately achieve good fortune. Trust in the process of change and be open to new opportunities, even when they appear in unexpected forms.