Waiting — 五九

The Line

Interpretation

Even in the midst of danger there are rest periods in which things go relatively well. If one possesses the right inner strength, one will use these rest periods to strengthen oneself for renewed struggle. One can enjoy the moment without letting oneself be diverted from one's goal; for perseverance is necessary to remain the victor. It is also so in public life. Not everything can be achieved at once. The highest wisdom is to grant people such rest periods, which enliven the joy of work toward the completion of the undertaking. Here lies hidden the secret of the whole hexagram. It differs from the hexagram of Obstruction in that, in waiting, one is sure of one's cause and therefore does not let the calm of inner cheerfulness be taken from one.