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Hexagram:

Also known as:

57. Gentle Penetration

Soft Influence, Gradual Impact, Subtle Power, Gentle Persuasion, Quiet Determination, Slow Influence, Strategic Entry, Persistent Flow, Power in Softness, Cumulative Effect

Line

Drawn as

Energy

Duality

Trigram

Dynamic

Polarity

Meaning

Yang 8.png

Yang

Masculine

Yang 8.png

Yin

Feminine

Yang 8.png

Yang

Masculine

Yang 8.png

Yang

Masculine

Yang 8.png

Yang

Masculine

Trigram

3

Lower

2

1

6

Upper

5

4

Wind

Eldest Daugther

Immature Yin

Morality

Wind

Youngest Daughter

Immature Yin

Morality

Yang 8.png

Yin

Feminine

#

English Name

Chinese Name

Hanzi

Pinyin

Action

Hexagram:

卦 Guà

Hidden Influence:

互卦 Hu Guà (nuclear)

Underlying Cause:

綜卦 Zong Guà (reverse)

57. Gentle Penetration

xùn

Permeate

38. Diverging Interests

zhèn

Accommodate

51. Shock

kuí

Arouse

Expression:

I influence softly

Affirmation:

I influence the world with subtle strength, allowing my quiet persistence to create lasting change.

Image (Legge):

Winds following one upon the other: the image of the gently penetrating. Thus the superior man spreads his commands abroad and carries out his undertakings.

Judgement (Legge):

The Gentle. Success through what is small. It furthers one to have somewhere to go. It furthers one to see the great man.

Overall meaning:

Gentle Penetration represents subtle influence, patience, and the quiet power of persistent effort. This hexagram symbolizes a time when gentle, consistent actions can create meaningful change, much like the gradual force of wind or water shaping the landscape over time. Gentle Penetration encourages us to approach situations with humility and sensitivity, allowing flexibility and receptivity to guide progress. It suggests that lasting transformation often requires patience and the willingness to adapt rather than push forcefully.

The essence of Hexagram 57 lies in perseverance, subtlety, and trust in the process of gradual growth. It teaches that gentle influence is powerful when rooted in genuine intent, as small, steady efforts accumulate into significant impact. This hexagram reminds us that through quiet persistence and attentiveness to the needs of the moment, one can create a lasting foundation of trust, understanding, and harmony. In this way, Gentle Penetration emphasizes the strength of a soft touch, showing that resilience and purpose are best expressed through mindful and consistent dedication.

Quotes:

Upright Hexagram

Rotated 90°
counter clockwise

Change - - to 0
Change — to 1

Binary Number Created:

110110

Line 1:

Embarking / Initiating

The first line suggests that a gentle approach is needed, starting with small, careful actions to gain influence. This line advises moving forward subtly and patiently, allowing progress to unfold gradually without force.

Line 2:

Discovery / Inner Harmony

In this line, the subject is encouraged to continue their gentle influence consistently. By persevering with modesty and patience, they create a steady, lasting impact over time.

Line 3:

Gateway / 
Portal

The third line warns against hesitation or overthinking, as it can hinder progress. This line suggests that while caution is important, excessive doubt can prevent one from taking necessary steps forward.

Line 4:

Showing up / Approach

Here, the subject is in a position to exert influence, but they must avoid pushing too hard. This line advises finding the right balance, allowing gentle persuasion to work without becoming intrusive or controlling.

Line 5:

External Focus / 
Periphery

The fifth line shows someone who exerts influence through inner clarity and self-restraint, allowing their presence to guide others naturally. By leading quietly from within, they create harmony and inspire others without overt force.

Line 6:

Pinnacle / Breakthrough Awaits

The sixth line warns against excessive or aggressive attempts at influence, as this may lead to resistance or alienation. This line suggests that true penetration is achieved through gentle, consistent actions, not through overwhelming or forceful tactics.

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Frame.png
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57

Binary:

110110

Structure:

Unicode decimal:

Unicode point:

Non-Core Gua

19960

U+4DF8

Sector:

202.5 to 208.125

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