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Hexagram:
Also known as:
56. The Wanderer
Seeking Adventure, Spirit of Exploration, Passing Through, Temporary Journey, Nomadic Life, Transient Experience, Learning through Travel, Adaptable Spirit, Path of Discovery, Restless Search
Line
Drawn as
Energy
Duality
Trigram
Dynamic
Polarity
Meaning
Yang
Masculine
Yang
Masculine
Yin
Feminine
Yang
Masculine
Yin
Feminine
Trigram
3
Lower
2
1
6
Upper
5
4
Mountain
Youngest Son
Immature Yang
Meaning
Fire
Youngest Daughter
Immature Yin
Custom
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)
56. The Wanderer
旅
lǚ
Explore
28. Critical Mass
大過
jié
Adjust
60. Limitation
節
dà guò
Regulate
Expression:
I wander purposefully
Affirmation:
I explore the world with an open heart and curious mind, finding purpose and meaning in every new experience.
Image (Legge):
Fire on the mountain: the image of The Wanderer. Thus the superior man is clear-minded and cautious in imposing penalties, and protracts no lawsuits.
Judgement (Legge):
The Wanderer. Success through smallness. Perseverance brings good fortune to the wanderer.
Overall meaning:
The Wanderer represents a journey, exploration, and the wisdom gained through experiences away from one’s familiar environment. This hexagram symbolizes a time of movement and discovery, where one travels—literally or metaphorically—with an open mind, learning from new perspectives and challenges. The Wanderer suggests that stability is found not in attachment, but in adaptability and self-reliance. It encourages one to embrace the unfamiliar, gathering insights and skills that deepen understanding and resilience.
The essence of Hexagram 56 lies in curiosity, humility, and respect for diverse paths. It teaches that while we may feel like outsiders at times, each experience enriches us, broadening our worldview and inner strength. This hexagram reminds us that the journey itself is valuable, providing lessons that cannot be learned from within the comfort of home. In this way, The Wanderer highlights the beauty of exploration, guiding us to carry our inner stability wherever we go and to approach each encounter with respect, gratitude, and an open heart.
Quotes:
Upright Hexagram
Rotated 90°
counter clockwise
Change - - to 0
Change — to 1
Binary Number Created:
101100
Line 1:
Embarking / Initiating
The first line shows someone at the beginning of their journey, a stranger in unfamiliar territory. This line advises caution, reminding the traveler to act modestly and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to themselves.
Line 2:
Discovery / Inner Harmony
In this line, the traveler finds temporary shelter and a sense of belonging, but the security is not permanent. It suggests that while some stability can be found, one should remain prepared to move forward when necessary, as attachments here may be fleeting.
Line 3:
Gateway /
Portal
The third line warns of the dangers of arrogance or self-indulgence while in unfamiliar surroundings. Acting recklessly as a wanderer may lead to misfortune or rejection, so it’s wise to stay humble and respectful.
Line 4:
Showing up / Approach
Here, the subject is careful and reserved, adapting to the customs of their temporary place. This line suggests that respect and adaptability bring acceptance, making the journey smoother and safer.
Line 5:
External Focus /
Periphery
The fifth line shows a traveler who has gained respect and acceptance through wisdom and proper behavior. By being mindful and courteous, they find support and achieve success, even far from home.
Line 6:
Pinnacle / Breakthrough Awaits
The sixth line warns of the perils of overextending or taking advantage of one’s position as a wanderer. Excessive behavior or failing to adapt can lead to alienation and misfortune, advising the traveler to maintain humility and remember their transient status.
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