16. Enthusiasm (豫 Yù)

Trigrams

Above

☳ Zhèn (Thunder)

Below

☷ Kūn (Earth)

Symbolic Meaning

豫 (Yù) represents enthusiasm, excitement, and a sense of shared purpose. This hexagram speaks of a time when energy and joy fuel collective actions. Enthusiasm drives forward progress and creates harmony among people.

Judgment

Original Chinese:
"豫，利建侯行师。"
(Yù, lì jiàn hóu xíng shī.)

"Enthusiasm. It is beneficial to appoint helpers and set armies marching."

This hexagram signifies a time when enthusiasm drives collective action. It is a good time to delegate tasks to others, appoint capable helpers, and move forward with large plans. Progress is made with shared energy and excitement.

Image

Original Chinese:
"雷出地奋，豫。先王以作乐崇德，殷荐之上帝，以配祖考。"
(Léi chū dì fèn, yù. Xiān wáng yǐ zuò yuè chóng dé, yīn jiàn zhī shàng dì, yǐ pèi zǔ kǎo.)

"Thunder comes bursting out of the earth: The image of Enthusiasm. The ancient kings made music and offered it in honor of virtue. They worshiped with reverence at the temple of their ancestors."

The image of thunder erupting from the earth represents the energy and power of enthusiasm. The ancient kings used this energy to create harmony through music and honor their ancestors. In modern terms, this means using the joy of collective effort to build on past virtues and create a better future.

Line 1

Original Chinese:
"鸣豫，凶。"
(Míng yù, xiōng.)

"Enthusiasm that is premature brings misfortune."

This line warns against rushing into action before the time is right. Enthusiasm that is not grounded in careful preparation can lead to misfortune. It advises waiting until conditions are truly favorable.

Line 2

Original Chinese:
"鸣豫，吉。"
(Míng yù, jí.)

"Enthusiasm that is proclaimed brings good fortune."

This line speaks of the right time to share one's enthusiasm with others. When the time is right, expressing enthusiasm openly can inspire others and lead to success. Collective joy and energy bring good fortune.

Line 3

Original Chinese:
"盱豫，悔迟，有悔。"
(Xū yù, huǐ chí, yǒu huǐ.)

"Hesitant enthusiasm brings regret."

This line describes a situation where hesitation and lack of confidence undermine enthusiasm. Delaying action can lead to missed opportunities and regret. It advises overcoming doubt and moving forward with confidence.

Line 4

Original Chinese:
"由豫，大有得，勿疑。朋盍簪。"
(Yóu yù, dà yǒu dé, wù yí. Péng hé zān.)

"Proceeding with enthusiasm brings great gains. Do not doubt. Friends gather around like hairpins."

This line speaks of the benefits of acting with confidence and enthusiasm. By moving forward without doubt, great gains are achieved, and allies naturally gather around to support the effort.

Line 5

Original Chinese:
"贞疾，恒不死。"
(Zhēn jí, héng bù sǐ.)

"Persistent illness. But one does not die."

This line describes a difficult situation, but one that can be overcome through persistence. Even in the face of challenges, endurance brings survival and eventual success. It advises staying strong and committed despite obstacles.

Line 6

Original Chinese:
"冥豫，成有渝，无咎。"
(Míng yù, chéng yǒu yú, wú jiù.)

"Blind enthusiasm. Yet success leads to change. No blame."

This line speaks of enthusiasm that is initially blind or misdirected but still leads to success. Though the approach may be flawed, the outcome brings positive change, and there is no blame. It suggests that even imperfect efforts can lead to good results.