Hexagram “Lin” is the 19th hexagram in the Book of Changes, with the 18th hexagram being “Gu.” In the sequence of hexagrams: after matters are resolved, significant achievements can be made, hence it follows with “Lin” (Approach). “Lin” implies greatness. Matters are resolved, leading to the accomplishment of great undertakings; therefore, the subsequent hexagram is “Lin,” denoting grandeur.
Observing the hexagram, the upper trigram is Kun (Earth), and the lower trigram is Dui (Lake). Earth beneath the lake signifies the shore. As the earth is adjacent to water, the hexagram is named “Lin,” suggesting proximity. Among worldly entities, nothing is more closely adjacent than earth and water. Hence, the hexagram for earth over water is Bi, and for water over earth, it is “Lin.” The essence of “Lin” is to be adjacent from above to below.
In the “Image Explanation”: “Above the lake is earth; Approach. Superior people, with boundless thoughts, educate to ensure boundless security for the people.” The hexagram “Lin” has the trigrams Dui (Lake) below and Kun (Earth) above, symbolizing the manifestation of earth over the lake. The earth over the lake represents the shore, where the earth is elevated and overlooks below, symbolizing supervision and guidance. Inspired by this, superior individuals exert their utmost effort to educate and ensure limitless security for the people.
The hexagram “Lin” states: “Supreme success, beneficial to persist. In the eighth month, there will be misfortune.” Initially, there is prosperity, advantageous for adhering to the correct path. However, misfortune may occur in the eighth month.
In the “Judgment Explanation”: “Approach. Supreme success, advantageous to persist. In the eighth month, there will be misfortune.” The hexagram “Lin” represents the yang being nourished and growing, expressing joy and compliance. The yang in the middle corresponds appropriately. Great success is achieved by maintaining correctness, reflecting the way of heaven. Regarding the misfortune in the eighth month, it will be short-lived.
The mention of “misfortune in the eighth month” refers to the hexagram Guan, the wind over the earth. It is the reversal of the hexagram “Lin,” warning that when we do the right thing, adversity is inevitable when circumstances reverse. In the affairs of the world, the interplay of yin and yang is constant. Prolonged prosperity will lead to obstacles, and prolonged obstacles will give way to prosperity. When things go too smoothly, anticipate challenges; when facing adversity, maintain steadfast faith as it is temporary.
In the “Lines Commentary,” the text for the initial yang reads: “Joint approach brings good fortune. A heart of transformation directed downward, approaching the people, is auspicious, adhering firmly to the correct path.” This implies that the aspiration and conduct are both upright.
The text for the second yang reads: “Joint approach brings good fortune. No blame. A heart of transformation directed downward, approaching the myriad people, is auspicious; there is nothing disadvantageous.” This is due to the result of efforts, not confined by the constraints of fate.
The text for the third yin reads: “Sweet approach, no blame. Concern and anxiety, yet no fault.” Approaching the people with sweet words yields no benefit. However, if there is concern and anxiety leading to reform, there will be no calamity.
The text for the fourth yin reads: “Approaching brings no blame. Coming to one’s goal, without fault.” Approaching without blame is due to the proper position of the fourth yin.
The text for the fifth yin reads: “Knowing approach brings good fortune. The suitability of a great ruler; auspicious.” Using intelligence and wisdom to approach the world is what a great ruler should achieve. It is auspicious.
The text for the top yin reads: “Conscientious approach brings good fortune. The aspiration is inward.” “Using conscientiousness and sincerity to govern the people brings good fortune.” This indicates a focus on internal matters, benefitting both the country and the family.
