Hexagram 19: Approach

Trigrams

Upper trigram: Kun (Earth) · Lower trigram: Dui (Lake)

Judgment

Sublime success, favorable to persevere. By the eighth month there will be misfortune (a warning against complacency).

Image

The earth above the lake: approach. The noble one teaches without limit and protects the people without bound.

Meaning of Hexagram Approach

Approach (臨) is hexagram #19 of the 64 I-Ching hexagrams, formed by the upper trigram Kun (Earth) and lower trigram Dui (Lake). It represents growing influence and opportunity approaching; act with integrity. When this hexagram is cast, the querent should meditate on the judgment and image to grasp what the Yi is saying about the current situation.

The Six Lines Explained

First Line (Nine at the Beginning)

"Xian lin, zhen ji — Joining together to approach; perseverance brings good fortune"

Joining forces to advance; holding to what is right brings good fortune. This yang line joins with line 2 to move forward together, needing to keep to what is right in this early stage of growth.

Second Line (Nine in the Second Place)

"Xian lin, ji, wu bu li — Joining together to approach; good fortune, nothing that does not further"

Joining forces to approach: good fortune, nothing is unfavorable. This firm, central line is in a favorable position both now and going forward, thanks to its union with line 1.

Third Line (Six in the Third Place)

"Gan lin, wu you li; ji you zhi, wu jiu — Approaching with sweet words brings no benefit; but worrying about it and correcting oneself brings no blame"

Approaching with sweet, flattering words brings no benefit; but if one is concerned enough to correct oneself, there is no blame. A warning against deceit and flattery — but there is still a chance to correct it if recognized in time.

Fourth Line (Six in the Fourth Place)

"Zhi lin, wu jiu — Approaching with utmost sincerity; no blame"

Coming with complete sincerity, without blame. This yielding, correctly placed line has real sincerity in connecting with a capable person (line 1), hence no fault.

Fifth Line (Six in the Fifth Place)

"Zhi lin, da jun zhi yi, ji — Approaching with wisdom, befitting a great ruler; good fortune"

Approaching (governing) with clear-sighted wisdom, fitting for a great leader: good fortune. Placed high, this line recognizes and employs the talented (line 2), showing the qualities of a good leader.

Top Line (Six at the Top)

"Dun lin, ji, wu jiu — Approaching with generous sincerity; good fortune, no blame"

Approaching the world with generous sincerity: good fortune, no blame. The final line shows sincerity and warmth toward those of talent and virtue, even without a direct correspondence.

The Transformed Hexagram

The inner trigram is Dui (Lake), the outer is Kun (Earth) — the inverse of hexagram 20, Contemplation (with inner and outer trigrams swapped). Identify the exact moving line for the correct transformation.

Applications by Area of Life

Work & Career

This is a favorable period of growth, with positive (yang) forces increasing. Cooperate with those who share your direction (lines 1 and 2) and avoid improper temptations or enticements (as warned in line 3).

Love & Relationships

The hexagram advises approaching one another with sincerity (lines 4 and 6), avoiding sweet but false words (line 3) meant only to take advantage.

Health

A favorable period, though the Tuan Commentary warns of trouble arising later (“by the eighth month there will be misfortune”) — maintain good habits consistently and do not become complacent.

Wealth

A favorable time for financial growth given the right cooperation. Be wary of tempting investment offers that lack a solid foundation (as in line 3).

Frequently Asked Questions about Approach

What does hexagram Lin (Approach) mean?

Lin has two meanings: “to grow” (yang expanding) and “to approach, to oversee”. This hexagram speaks of a favorable stage of growth, while also carrying the meaning of governing, caring for, and guiding others.

Why does the Tuan Commentary mention “by the eighth month there will be misfortune”?

This is a warning about the cycle of rise and decline — even though things are currently favorable, one must prepare for changes that may come later, rather than assuming favorable conditions will last forever.

What does Lin advise about how to treat others?

The hexagram emphasizes sincerity and warmth (lines 4 and 6) and warns against deceit and flattery (line 3) — the core lesson is that good relationships must be built on genuine honesty.