David Given Schwarm

I觀

CONTEMPLATION

By concentrating on the higher laws,
you acquire the power that underlies them.

This hexagram teaches us to set an example for others through our own contemplation of proper principles.

A fundamental fact of consciousness is that we take on the attributes and energy of that upon which we focus our attention. In studying and meditating on the I Ching, we are concentrating on the underlying principles that govern the universe. Through contemplation of the wisdom of such principles as independence, detachment, modesty, acceptance, and tolerance, we begin to embody them in our own lives. Their power informs our actions and practices and we begin to have great influence as a result.

This hexagram comes to indicate that you need to make a self-correction and return to contemplation of proper principles. By sacrificing the harsh judgements of your ego and asking the Sage for guidance, you free yourself from hindering influences and increase your merit—and thereby your ability to have an influence.

It is in the quiet contemplation of what is correct that we become detached from anxious emotions about the situations that face us. This detachment gives us the balance and calm to choose solutions which are in accordance with the higher laws. In so doing we gain the aid of the Creative in everything we do, and others are drawn to this strength. Truly, we gain the ability to lead through contemplation of the principles of our own leader, the Sage.

FIRST LINE

Others may not yet recognize the correctness of following truth. The superior person leads them to this by deepening her own contemplation.

SECOND LINE

Do not take the situation to heart. The workings of the Creative are complex and often unknowable. Slow progress will endure.

THIRD LINE

Look not at the outward situation but at the effects of your own thoughts and actions. Through self-contemplation and self-correction you arrive at a proper understanding.

FOURTH LINE

Those who understand proper principles will lead others with respect, tolerance, and gentleness.

FIFTH LINE

It is a time for examining and correcting one’s own attitudes. By contemplating the good you enable your-self to benefit from it.

SIXTH LINE

The central truth is that one gains the world by becoming blameless. Sincere contemplation is the means to this end.