Hexagram 44 - Coupling Hexagram - I Ching 64 Hexagrams

Neutral

Tied by a rope to a metal brake, temporarily safe, but if one acts rashly, misfortune will ensue. It is like a skinny pig hesitating on the road, its progress hindered.

It describes insufficient strength yet a desire to act actively, resulting in frantic haste; however, if one acts recklessly, misfortune will occur. Officials risk demotion, and businessmen are suited for running a shop rather than mobile sales. It also typically hints at extramarital affairs.

Neutral

There are fish in the kitchen, posing no risk, but they are not suitable for entertaining guests.

It suggests that you possess inner substance and wish to advance your relationship quickly, but due to many unknown factors, it is not advisable to entertain external influences. Officials should be cautious of strangers trying to establish connections, while businessmen, with ample goods, can profit.

Misfortune

The skin on the buttocks is abraded, making walking difficult; danger will be encountered, but it will not lead to major misfortune.

It describes that in difficult situations, one should not force progress and must respond with caution, or else troubles will arise. In a relationship, after reaching a certain stage, there is a period of adjustment following mutual understanding; one should not impose restrictions forcefully. Businessmen may be indecisive and thus fail to profit.

Misfortune

There are no longer any fish in the kitchen, which will bring great risk.

It describes that after becoming acquainted, one loses confidence, leading to risk. It also implies that one should not only consider appearances but also the substantive reality. Elderly people do not live long, officials often face difficulties, and businessmen may have no goods to sell.

Misfortune

Wrapping a melon with wolfberry leaves is like harboring beautiful virtues in one's heart; without frantic effort, a good opportunity will descend from the heavens.

It describes that inner noble virtues are the most crucial resource; good opportunities will naturally find those with such qualities. One will encounter benefactors, officials have a chance for promotion, and businessmen are suited to dealing in wooden products.

Misfortune

Encountering a wild beast and being under its horns is not an auspicious sign, but it does not lead to major catastrophe.

It describes that progress is not smooth; although there may be minor difficulties, they do not escalate into major problems, and going with the flow can resolve them. Officials may achieve good results, but their fortune is nearly exhausted. Businessmen must carefully calculate costs to turn a profit.