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I Ching 5

Hexagram 5 – Xū (需) | Waiting (Nourishment)

Judgment (Overall Meaning)​

Patience is required. Just as rain must gather in the sky before it falls to nourish the earth, success will come in its own time. This is not a time for rushing or forcing outcomes. Trust that the right moment will arrive. The wise person prepares, strengthens themselves, and remains steady, knowing that what is needed will come.

Image (Symbolism)​

Water gathers in the sky, forming clouds but not yet releasing rain. This symbolizes a period of waiting and preparation. The potential for growth and success is there, but the conditions are not yet ripe. The key is to maintain inner strength and faith while allowing events to unfold naturally.

Line-by-Line Interpretation​

(Each changing line deepens the wisdom of patience and timing)

  1. Trust the process – The journey has begun, but results are not immediate. Stay calm.
  2. Obstacles test patience – Delays and challenges may arise. Meet them with inner strength.
  3. Impatience leads to trouble – Trying to force an outcome too soon will only bring setbacks.
  4. The right moment approaches – The situation is improving. Continue to prepare.
  5. Success is near – The rain begins to fall, bringing nourishment. What was needed arrives.
  6. Overconfidence after waiting – Do not rush forward too eagerly once success comes. Move wisely.

Key Themes of Hexagram 5​

  • Patience and Trust – Some things take time. Do not force them.
  • Preparation and Readiness – Use this waiting period to strengthen yourself.
  • Timing is Everything – Success comes when the moment is right.

If you receive Hexagram 5, life is reminding you to wait with wisdom. What you need is on its way—stay steady, be prepared, and trust that the right time will come.