I Ching 64 Hexagrams

Hexagram Position Information

• Hexagram Number: Hexagram 54
• Hexagram Name: Gui Mei (The Marrying Maiden)
• Hexagram Image: Zhen ☳ above, Tui ☱ below (Thunder over Lake)
• Hexagram Nature: A hexagram emphasizing relationships, secondary roles, emotional impulse, and acting within proper limits

• Primary Hexagram: Gui Mei (The Marrying Maiden) (Hexagram 54)
• Nuclear Hexagram: Ji Ji / After Completion (Hexagram 63)
• Inverse Hexagram: Jian / Development (Hexagram 53)
• Complementary Hexagram: Jian / Development (Hexagram 53)

Thunder moves above the lake, stirring feeling and attraction. Because impulse can outrun sound judgment, the hexagram stresses proper position, responsibility, and long-term consequences.

What This Hexagram Is Saying

The Marrying Maiden. To set out brings misfortune. Nothing is favorable.

The Great Image and Core Spirit

The Marrying Maiden hexagram emphasizes "proper roles and order." Progress and union in life depend not only on feeling and impulse, but also on whether they accord with the right way, ritual propriety, and responsibility. An improper union may succeed in form, yet end in failure.

The Progression of the Six Lines

1. Initial Nine

   Line text: The Marrying Maiden as a younger sister given in marriage. Though lame, one can still walk. Setting out brings good fortune.

   Though in a low position, one understands one's proper place and is willing to serve in a supporting role. Though not perfect, one may still attain good fortune if one acts with propriety.

2. Nine in the Second Place

   Line text: Though one-eyed, one can still see. It is favorable for the secluded person to remain steadfast.

   One overlooks some things and endures inner unwillingness, yet still remains upright. For those at a disadvantage, keeping to their proper place is in fact beneficial.

3. Six in the Third Place

   Line text: The Marrying Maiden as a waiting woman, then returns to be given in marriage as a younger sister.

   With lofty ambitions but a low position, one loses all sense of how to advance or withdraw, and in the end can only settle for less. This is the result of impatience and lack of measure.

4. Nine in the Fourth Place

   Line text: The Marrying Maiden misses the proper time. A delayed marriage will come in due season.

   Better to delay than to act rashly. Waiting for the right moment is, in fact, the wise course.

5. Six in the Fifth Place

   Line text: Emperor Yi gave his younger sister in marriage. The sleeves of the noble lady were not as fine as those of her younger sister. The moon is nearly full. Good fortune.

   Though holding an honored place, one does not prize outward adornment, but remains humble and centered, and thus gains blessing and good fortune. This is one of the few auspicious lines in The Marrying Maiden.

6. Top Six

   Line text: The woman carries a basket with nothing in it. The man cuts the sheep, but no blood flows. Nothing is favorable.

   The form is there, but the substance is empty. In both relationships and undertakings, results are hard to achieve; the omen of misfortune has already taken shape.

Practical Guidance for Daily Life

Physical and emotional state:

The above content is for everyday self-care reference only. If physical or emotional discomfort persists or worsens, please consult a qualified medical or mental health professional as a priority.

One-Sentence Reminder

In relationships and unequal circumstances, understand your position, restrain impulse, and protect your dignity through clear boundaries.