Hexagram 16: Self-Reflexive
Image:
The same light that shines on the seen shines on the seer. The same darkness moves around them both.
Judgement:
Fire reflects in fire, revealing the Great Empress moving in the dark. Within her, all the sons and daughters dance between heaven and earth. The Wise One stands in his proper place, then moves to be her groom. He sees great mysteries, but seals his lips with a smile. The fool sees only the fire.
Moving Lines:
- Line 6 -- Heaven sits above and shows great strength and beauty. Though six lines appear, yet there is still but Two and Three. When they dance together, even the wind stands still. The ten thousand things are a golden crown for the Great Empress.
- Line 5 -- Heaven is in its proper place. It shows great splendor, but moves not. The fire shines on the face of the Great Empress, revealing her gentle ways. Within the darkness of her robes, lies the secrets of heaven and earth.
- Line 4 -- The Wise One stands between heaven and earth, bringing them together. His face glows with the inspiration of heaven as he brings forth the Golden Code. The daughters dance with him, making four. There is great joy as he gazes into the heavens.
- Line 3 -- The Wise One moves between heaven and earth, receiving them both. His face is soft and gentle as he views the fire within. He dances with the Great Empress, while daughters become sons. There is great happiness.
- Line 2 -- Two sits upon Two, giving rise to moving and standing still. The earth below is receptive and nurturing. The fire shines on the feet of the Great Empress as she dances. Her dance is the earth itself.
- Line 1 -- From Oneness comes the Two, and Two becomes Three. The earth below is yielding and soft, but moves not. From such simple beginnings comes the ten thousand things of heaven and earth.
Links:
Translator's Notes
A Treatise on Hexagram 16, Self-Reflexive