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53) Jian: Progress

Hexagram:

• C: There are trees on the mountain, growing gradually; superior people live wisely and improve customs.

• L: Gradual progress is good when a woman marries. It is beneficial to be correct.

• E: Gradual progress following appropriate order.

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Lines:

1 Yin:

• L: Geese gradually proceed on the shoreline. The small ones are in danger; there is criticism, no fault.

• E: This is gradual progress that is weak and incorrect leading to misfortune. When misfortune is blamed on others, there is danger and criticism.

2 Yin:

• L: Geese gradually proceed on boulders; they eat and drink happily. Good fortune.

• E: Being still and balanced, there is gradual progress that is balanced in spite of weakness.

3 Yang:

• L: Geese gradually proceed on a plateau. The husband who goes on an expedition does not return; the wife who gets pregnant does not raise the child. Misfortune. It is beneficial to defend against brigands.

• E: Strength rushing to succeed, is gradual progress in which one is strong but loses control.

4 Yin:

• L: Geese gradually proceed in the trees, and may reach a level roost. No fault.

• E: Remaining flexible by becoming empty and silent in order to await the return of yang, is gradual progress in which one is yielding in order to preserve correct orientation.

5 Yang:

• L: Geese gradually proceed onto a mountain top. The wife does not conceive for three years, but in the end nothing defeats her. Good fortune.

• E: When essence and feeling merge into the golden elixir, one knows that destiny doesn't depend on heaven. This is gradual progress in which strength and flexibility merge.

6 Yang:

• L: Geese gradually proceed to level ground; their feathers can be used for ceremonies.  Good fortune.

• E: When strength and flexibility complete the spiritual embryo, reaching peace and security, one can cultivate through teaching. This is gradual progress culminating in complete fulfillment of the whole process of spiritual alchemy.