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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
Masculine
Yin
Feminine
Yang
Masculine
Yang
Masculine
Yang
Masculine
Trigram
3
Lower
2
1
6
Upper
5
4
Wind
Eldest Daugther
Immature Yin
Morality
Wind
Youngest Daughter
Immature Yin
Morality
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
巽
xùn
Permeate
38. Diverging Interests
睽
zhèn
Accommodate
51. Shock
震
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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