Hexagram 53 漸 - JIÀN / DEVELOPMENT (GRADUAL PROGRESS)
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Trigrams#
- Above: Xùn, the Gentle, Wind
- Below: Gèn, Keeping Still, Mountain
The hexagram is composed of Xùn (Wood, Penetration) above or on the outside, and Gèn (Mountain, Stillness) below or on the inside. A tree growing on a mountain develops slowly and in accordance with the proper order, establishing deep roots as a result. This evokes the idea of development, which advances gradually, step by step. The inner qualities of the trigrams also reflect this process: inner stillness provides a shield against rash actions, while outer penetration allows progress and development to take place.
The Judgment#
Development. The maiden is given in marriage. Good fortune. Perseverance furthers.
The development that leads to a maiden following her husband to his home is a gradual process. Various formalities must be completed before the marriage can be consummated. This gradual progression can be applied to other situations as well, particularly where formal relationships of cooperation are concerned, such as the appointment of an official. In these matters, the proper sequence of development must be allowed to unfold. Rushing into action would lead to undesirable results. The same principle applies when attempting to influence others. True influence relies on a correct process of gradual development achieved through cultivating one’s own personality. Any form of sudden, agitational influence fails to produce lasting effects.
The inner life must also follow this same path of development if enduring results are to be achieved.
The outer expression, which must arise from inner peace, is characterized by gentleness and adaptability, yet it remains penetrating.
The very nature of this gradual development requires steadfastness. Only constancy ensures that slow progress does not lose its momentum and fade away.
The Image#
On the mountain, a tree: the image of Development. Thus the superior man abides in dignity and virtue to improve the customs of the world.
A tree on a mountain is visible from afar, and its development influences the landscape of the entire region. It does not shoot up rapidly like marsh plants; its growth is slow and gradual. Similarly, an individual’s influence on people can only develop progressively. Sudden impressions or awakenings do not leave a lasting impact. Progress must be thoroughly gradual. To shape public opinion and improve public customs, an individual’s personality must first gain weight and influence. This is accomplished through diligent, enduring dedication to one’s own moral development.
The Individual Lines#
Six at the beginning means:#
The wild goose gradually draws near the shore. The young son is in danger. There is talk. No blame.
The individual lines all use the gradual flight of the wild goose as a central image. The wild goose is a symbol of marital fidelity, as it is said never to take another mate after the death of its partner.
The opening line marks the first stage of the water birds’ journey from the water to the heights, as they reach the shore. This describes the situation of a lonely young person who is just beginning to make his way in the world. Because he lacks connections to welcome or support him, his first steps are slow and hesitant, and he finds himself surrounded by danger. Naturally, he faces a great deal of criticism. Yet, these very difficulties prevent him from rushing ahead blindly, ensuring the success of his eventual progress.
Six in the second place means:#
The wild goose gradually draws near the cliff. Eating and drinking in peace and harmony. Good fortune.
The cliff represents a safe and stable place upon the shore. The process of development has advanced by one step. The initial uncertainty has passed, and a secure position in life has been found, providing an ample livelihood. This first success, which opens up opportunities for effective action, brings a sense of cheerfulness, allowing one to move toward the future with peace of mind.
It is said of the wild goose that it calls out to its companions when it finds food; this represents peace and harmony in times of good fortune. One does not wish to keep prosperity to oneself but is ready to share it with others.
Nine in the third place means:#
The wild goose gradually draws near the plateau. The husband goes forth and does not return. The wife carries a child but does not bring it to birth. Misfortune! It furthers one to fight off robbers.
A dry plateau is no place for a wild goose. If it flies there, it has lost its way and gone too far. This runs entirely counter to the law of natural development.
The same is true in human life. Misfortune follows when a person does not allow things to develop quietly, choosing instead to plunge prematurely into conflict. One throws his own life away, and his family is ruined in the process. However, this outcome is by no means inevitable; it is simply the consequence of violating the law of natural development. If an individual refrains from actively seeking out conflict and instead limits himself to maintaining his position firmly while repelling unauthorized attacks, everything goes well.
Six in the fourth place means:#
The wild goose gradually draws near the tree. Perhaps it will find a flat branch. No blame.
A tree is not a suitable resting place for a wild goose. However, if the bird is clever, it will find a flat branch capable of supporting it. In the course of life’s development, one often encounters situations that are unsuitable or where it is difficult to maintain one’s position without danger. In such moments, adaptability and insight are vital. By remaining flexible, one can discover a safe and viable foothold even in the midst of danger.
Nine in the fifth place means:#
The wild goose gradually draws near the summit. The wife bears no child for three years. In the end, nothing can prevent it. Good fortune.
The summit is an elevated place, and high positions can easily bring isolation. One is often misunderstood by the very person they depend upon: the wife by her husband, or the official by his ruler. This isolation is caused by deceitful people who have insinuated themselves between them. As a result, relationships remain sterile and nothing is accomplished. However, the natural course of development ensures that such misunderstandings dissolve, and the union is ultimately fulfilled.
Nine at the top means:#
The wild goose gradually draws near the cloud-covered heights. Its feathers can be used for the sacred dance. Good fortune.
Here, life’s journey reaches its fulfillment. The work stands completed. Its path rises high into the heavens, like the flight of wild geese that have left all earthly ground behind. They soar upward, preserving the perfect order of their flight and forming precise, elegant lines across the sky.
Even when their feathers fall, they are gathered and used as ornaments in the sacred pantomimes of the temple dances.
Thus, the life of a person who has achieved fulfillment becomes a bright light for the people of the earth, who look up to him as an inspiring example.
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