The Meaning of Hexagram #28

When walking across a thin and bending beam, one must take heart and have faith that it will hold. Hexagram number 28 is a reminder to not bend under the weight of burdens. It is also about a great inner test. You may be in some danger for a short time. Only through letting go of the old and embracing the new can success be attained. A gentle strength is required here.

NOTE: Want to know how I Ching hexagram #28, "Wind below Lake", can be applied to questions about relationships? See our special Hexagram #28 Love I Ching interpretation.

Changing Lines in Hexagram #28

Changes in Line 1

"Strengthening the Foundation"

The wise person takes the time to lay a firm base on the ground before they act. This requires sincerity and good intentions. Be humble and you will proceed well.

Changes in Line 2

"Fertile Ground"

This line is a reminder that new growth is coming. You will soon cultivate a new relationship or enter a new phase with your current partner. Embrace newness with regard to friendship also. Remember: Age matters not. Be with your elders as well as your children and you can overcome any obstacle or test.

Changes in Line 3

"Being Careful"

If the load one carries is heavy and the pole one walks upon is bending, a fall could happen. The wise individual will seek help before disaster strikes.

Changes in Line 4

"Recovering Balance"

The pole you are walking on is strengthened. This is good fortune! Though still precariously perched, if you accept support from those around than you, you will master this challenge

Changes in Line 5

"Dissolving Hierarchies"

This line is a reminder to embrace all ranks, levels and conditions. Find the equality in those that may seem lower than you. Be humble and you will find joyous connection

Changes in Line 6

"Trudging through Water"

With fearlessness and persistence you will pass whatever test lies ahead. Though it may feel like you are drowning, keep yourself afloat with pure trust

The Trigrams Within Hexagram #28

Hexagram #28 is built out of two 3-line trigrams stacked on top of each other. The lower three lines of hexagram #28 make up the trigram for Wind, while the top three lines make up the trigram for Lake.

NOTE: In general terms, the hexagram's upper trigram points to external energies, while the lower trigram points to internal energies.

Hexagram #28's Lower Trigram of Wind

The mild mannered trigram of wind is associated with a light and easy energy. The trigram of wind is also known as a 'soft force': both subtle and lacking in strength, and yet persistent and unwavering. The wind trigram may also point to an 'eldest daughter' or the compass direction of southeast

Hexagram #28's Upper Trigram of Lake

The blissful trigram representing the lake symbolizes happiness and clarity of thought and communication. Blissful tranquility is referenced here, along with a sense of calm and devotion. The blissful Lake may also point to a 'third daughter' or the map direction west.

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List of all possible changes for hexagram #28

A note on iFate's I Ching translation: This is not a direct translation of the original "Book of Changes" from 1000 BC. While multiple translations of the original text are available, they include many archaic references and can be difficult to understand for 21st century readers. iFate uses our own modern rewritings (two different editions) of the "Book of Changes" which makes interpreting I Ching readings far simpler. For iFate's additional contemporary re-writing of the original text, see our "Love I Ching" translation.