Hexagram 5

Hsu / Waiting (Nourishment)


需

Upper Trigram: K'an The Abysmal, Water
Lower Trigram: Ch'ien The Creative, Heaven



Hexagram Analysis

I Ching Hexagram 5 : 需 Hsu / Waiting (Nourishment)

All living beings require sustenance from the universe. However, the bestowal of nourishment arrives at its own pace, and one must be patient. This hexagram depicts the clouds in the sky, showering rain to invigorate all that flourishes and to provide humankind with sustenance. The rain will arrive in due time, and we must await its arrival. The notion of waiting is reinforced by the characteristics of the two trigrams - inner strength and peril from without. In the face of danger, inner strength does not rush forward but waits for the right moment, while vulnerability in the face of danger becomes restless and lacks the composure to wait.



The Judgment

Patience is key. Authenticity leads to illumination and achievement. Persistence yields prosperity. It is advantageous to traverse vast distances.

The act of waiting is not a passive one, but rather a confident expectation of achieving one's desired outcome. This confidence is the guiding light that leads to success and the perseverance necessary to overcome obstacles and achieve good fortune. When faced with danger, weakness and impatience are futile, but a person with inner strength can endure and triumph. This strength is rooted in honesty with oneself and the ability to face reality without illusion. By doing so, a path to success becomes clear and must be followed with determined action. Only those who face their fate with courage are equipped to handle it and make the necessary decisions to overcome any danger.



The Image

As the clouds ascend towards the sky, it symbolizes the act of waiting. Therefore, a person of high moral character can indulge in food and drink, while maintaining a state of happiness and positivity.

"When the sky's canvas is painted with clouds, it signals the arrival of rain. We must simply wait for the downpour to pass. Similarly, when destiny is in motion, we should refrain from fretting and attempting to manipulate the future prematurely. Instead, we should nourish our bodies with sustenance and our minds with positivity and joy. Fate will arrive in its own time, and we will be prepared."