Lin
Approach
The Image
The earth above the lake: the image of Approach. Thus the superior person is inexhaustible in the will to teach and without limits in the tolerance and protection of the people.
The Judgment
Approach has supreme success. Perseverance furthers. When the eighth month comes, there will be misfortune. Something positive is approaching, but be mindful that every advance carries within it the seed of its eventual retreat.
Description
Lin depicts two strong yang lines entering from below, pushing upward into the yin lines above. This is the image of approach, advance, and growing influence. Spring is coming; the light is returning; the creative force is gaining ground. The hexagram speaks to a time when positive conditions are developing and your influence is expanding.
The warning about the eighth month reminds us that every advance eventually reaches its peak and begins to recede. This is not cause for anxiety but for wisdom: use the time of approach well, building structures and relationships that will endure when the tide turns. The wise person does not try to prevent the cycle from turning but ensures that the gains made during the advance are preserved.
Deeper Meaning
Lin teaches the art of using favorable conditions wisely. When things are going well, there is a temptation to become complacent or to assume that the good times will last indefinitely. This hexagram counsels active engagement during the period of advance, building reserves, strengthening relationships, and deepening understanding while conditions are favorable. The approach is real and should be embraced, but with the awareness that it is part of a larger cycle.
Life Areas
Love & Relationships
Approach in love indicates that something beautiful is developing. A new relationship is deepening, an existing bond is strengthening, or the conditions for love are becoming increasingly favorable. Embrace this positive movement with open arms, but also invest in the foundation of the relationship so it can endure beyond the initial period of growth. Love that is tended during the approach survives the inevitable challenges that follow.
Career & Work
Lin in career matters signals a period of expanding influence, growing opportunity, and professional advancement. Your visibility is increasing and your efforts are gaining recognition. Use this momentum to establish yourself, build alliances, and create structures that will sustain your position. Take on leadership responsibilities and mentor others. The approach is your invitation to step into a larger role.
Health
Approach in health readings indicates improving vitality, recovery from illness, or the beginning of a health practice that will bear significant fruit. Energy is returning and the body is responding positively to your efforts. Use this upswing to establish habits that will sustain your health long-term. Build your strength while conditions favor it.
Advice
Embrace the approach with gratitude and intention. Use this favorable period to build, strengthen, and deepen. Do not waste the advancing tide on trivial pursuits. Be generous with your growing influence, teaching and protecting those who need it. Remember that the cycle will turn, and prepare accordingly.
Changing Lines
Changing lines in Lin describe different qualities of approach and advance: from the joint approach that draws strength from companionship to the approach that reaches its highest expression in wisdom and generosity. The eighth month warning threads through each line, reminding you to use the time of advance wisely.
Related Hexagrams
Complementary: Hexagram 20 (Guan, Contemplation) represents the observation and reflection that guides wise advance. Opposite: Hexagram 33 (Dun, Retreat) shows the strategic withdrawal that complements Lin's advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does I Ching Hexagram 19 (Lin) mean?
Hexagram 19, Lin (臨), translates to "Approach." It is composed of Earth/Lake and associated with the Earth element. Lin teaches the art of using favorable conditions wisely. When things are going well, there is a temptation to become complacent or to assume that the good times will last indefinitely. This hexagram
What is the advice of Hexagram 19 (Lin)?
Embrace the approach with gratitude and intention. Use this favorable period to build, strengthen, and deepen. Do not waste the advancing tide on trivial pursuits. Be generous with your growing influence, teaching and protecting those who need it. Remember that the cycle will turn, and prepare accor
What does Lin mean for love and relationships?
Approach in love indicates that something beautiful is developing. A new relationship is deepening, an existing bond is strengthening, or the conditions for love are becoming increasingly favorable. Embrace this positive movement with open arms, but also invest in the foundation of the relationship
What does Lin mean for career?
Lin in career matters signals a period of expanding influence, growing opportunity, and professional advancement. Your visibility is increasing and your efforts are gaining recognition. Use this momentum to establish yourself, build alliances, and create structures that will sustain your position. T
What do the changing lines mean in Hexagram 19?
Changing lines in Lin describe different qualities of approach and advance: from the joint approach that draws strength from companionship to the approach that reaches its highest expression in wisdom and generosity. The eighth month warning threads through each line, reminding you to use the time o