Hexagram Analysis

I Ching Hexagram 45 : 萃 Ts'ui / Gathering Together (Massing)

The hexagram at hand bears resemblance to Pi, "UNITY" (8), both in its form and meaning. While Pi features water over earth, this hexagram depicts a lake over earth. As a place where water naturally accumulates, the concept of gathering is even more pronounced here than in Pi. This is further emphasized by the fact that two strong lines (the fourth and fifth) are responsible for the gathering, as opposed to Pi where only one strong line (the fifth) is surrounded by weaker lines.

The Judgment

Coming Together. Achievement. The ruler nears their sacred place. It is beneficial to encounter a person of high status. This leads to success. Persistence is advantageous. Generous offerings bring about good luck. Undertaking a task is advantageous.

The coming together of people in large groups can occur naturally, such as in families, or artificially, as in the case of states. Families gather around a central figure, typically the head of the household. The continuation of this communal gathering is maintained through ancestor worship, where the entire clan comes together. Through the collective devotion of family members, ancestors become an integral part of the family's spiritual life, ensuring its unity and longevity. Religious forces are necessary when bringing people together, but a human leader is also required to serve as the group's center. To effectively unite others, this leader must first be centered within themselves. Only through collective moral strength can the world be united. These times of unification often leave behind great accomplishments, as seen in the significant offerings made during these periods. In secular settings, there is no need for grand gestures during times of gathering.

The Image

The lake hovers above the land, symbolizing the act of coming together. Therefore, a wise individual updates their tools to prepare for the unexpected.

When the lake's water level surpasses the earth's surface, there's a risk of a rupture. It's crucial to take precautions to avoid this. Similarly, when people congregate in large numbers, conflict is likely to arise, and when possessions are amassed, theft is probable. Therefore, during times of congregation, we must arm ourselves quickly to fend off unforeseen circumstances. Human suffering often results from unexpected events that catch us off guard. If we're prepared, we can prevent them.