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The Meaning of Hexagram #59

Also called "Dispersing"

I Ching Hexagram #59

Hexagram #59: Wind over Water

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I Ching Hexagram #59

This powerful hexagram indicates a dispersal of people and ideas. In the same way that wind skims across a watery surface, sending thousands of ripples in its path, hexagram number 59 signifies a time of many small changes. Old partnerships dissolve, friends move or money seems to get away from you for a time. Don't be concerned. The wise person knows that a period of dispersion inevitably gives rise to the return of another cycle of positive growth. Hexagram number 59 may also reference friends or family who move away.

NOTE: Wondering how I Ching hexagram #59, "Water below Wind", can be applied to questions about relationships? See our popular Hexagram #59 Love I Ching interpretation.


Changing Lines in Hexagram #59

Changes in Line 1

"Riding a Strong Horse"

I Ching hexagram 59 shown with changing-line #1 highlighted

Rising a strong horse refers to being quick to rectify any problems that arise. If you want to prevent the loss of a friendship or partnership, clear up any misunderstandings swiftly and thoroughly.

Changes in Line 2

"Hurrying Toward That Which Supports"

I Ching hexagram 59 shown with changing-line #2 highlighted

If your connection with another is threatened, hurry to what truly nourishes and connects you: Kindness and acceptance toward fellow humans. With kindness and acceptance, you will feel deep love even if someone else lives far away.

Changes in Line 3

"Dissolving One's Self"

I Ching hexagram 59 shown with changing-line #3 highlighted

This is a time to be selfless

Changes in Line 4

"The Power of Leaving the Group"

I Ching hexagram 59 shown with changing-line #4 highlighted

At this time, you may find yourself dispersing from an old group or union. The wise person lets life's currents take them on toward their new destination. Swim with the flow. This is a time of good fortune. Stepping back and seeing the broadest viewpoint will ease this transition.

Changes in Line 5

"The Power of One"

I Ching hexagram 59 shown with changing-line #5 highlighted

One good idea

Changes in Line 6

"Saving Blood"

I Ching hexagram 59 shown with changing-line #6 highlighted

This line is a reminder to avoid danger and bloodshed. The root of current problems has been gotten rid of, but caution must still be used. Be unselfish. This is a time to work for the common good of your whole community.



The Trigrams Inside Hexagram #59

I Ching hexagram #59 is built out of two 3-line trigrams mounted above each other. The lower three lines of hexagram #59 make up the trigram for Water, while the top three lines make up the trigram for Wind.

Vector image of lower trigram Water in hexagram #59
Lower Trigram of Water
Vector image of upper trigram Wind in hexagram #59
Upper Trigram of Wind

NOTE: A simple way to think about trigrams is that the hexagram's upper trigram references external forces, and the lower trigram references internal forces.

Hexagram #59's Lower Trigram of Water

Image of hexagram #59 with lower trigram highlighted

The fluid and forever-changing trigram of water is also sometimes called the trigram of the 'Gorge' or of the 'Abysmal'. Water itself is shapeless and liquid — symbolizing shifting realities and random outcomes. This fluid trigram is often an indication of uncertainty or sudden shifts. The water trigram is associated with the moon's cycles and with the direction north.

Hexagram #59's Upper Trigram of Wind

Image of hexagram #59 with upper trigram highlighted

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

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List of all possible changes for hexagram #59

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.

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