57. The Gentle
Xùn — Gentle Penetration
Trigrams
The Judgment
The Gentle. Success through what is small. It furthers one to have somewhere to go. It furthers one to see the great person.
The Image
Wind upon wind — gentle, persistent penetration. The wise person spreads their commands abroad and carries out their undertakings.
Interpretation
The gentlest force can penetrate where the strongest cannot. Wind enters every crevice, bends the mightiest trees over time, and shapes landscapes through persistent, gentle pressure. You are called to exercise this kind of influence — subtle, consistent, and penetrating. Grand gestures and forceful actions will not work here. Instead, apply gentle, steady influence over time.
Advice
Use gentle, persistent influence rather than force. Like wind, enter through the cracks rather than battering down the door. Have a clear direction and maintain it consistently. Small, steady efforts penetrate where force cannot.
Consult the I Ching for your own question
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