I Ching Hexagram #44:

How to interpret "Coming Together"

This is a good time to examine all the people in your life and ponder why you are connected to them. Look for the higher purpose in all relationships. Consider what this shared journey is teaching you. Don't judge people by their appearances. What lies beneath our outer appearance is what counts most. Form ties with intelligent people who support and share your own intelligence. Connect with like-minded souls. This may not be the best time to solidify a relationship or business partnership. Instead explore why people come together or don't come together in the first place. Coming together must be free of ulterior motives.

Changes in Line 1

"Avoiding Hungry Bears"

Keep a look out for "hungry bears." These are people who drain your energy and are power hungry. This is a time to assemble your team of comrades slowly and wisely.

Changes in Line 2

"Separating the Fish"

This is a time to keep closed-hearted people at bay. Swim in other waters. Don't let others contaminate your peace of mind.

Changes in Line 3

"Associating with the Wise"

Watch out for those who have a history of corruption. Save yourself from misery by associating with people who have no bad history, or who have reformed themselves completely.

Changes in Line 4

"Bad Fish in the River"

The river of your life could contain unscrupulous people at this time. Don't let their negativity spread over to you. Be careful.

Changes in Line 5

"Using your Influence"

This is a time to tolerate and protect all the unwise people in your sphere of life. Such people will respond well to your influence.

Changes in Line 6

"Avoiding Arrogance"

Don't toot your own horn. Be indifferent to whether other people judge you or praise you.

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List of all possible changes for this hexagram

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.