Hexagram 37 of 64
家人
The Family
Jiā Rén
Upper Trigram
巽
Wind
Gentle, Penetrating
Wind/Wood · Eldest Daughter
Lower Trigram
離
Fire
Clinging, Brilliant
Fire · Middle Daughter
The Judgment
The Family. The perseverance of the woman furthers.
The family is the fundamental unit of human society. When each person occupies their right role and fulfills it with sincerity, the family is a source of strength that radiates outward into society. The word of the father must be real.
The Image
Wind comes forth from fire — the image of the Family. Thus the superior person has substance in their words and duration in their way of life.
Wind rising from fire spreads warmth outward. The words that arise from genuine inner substance spread their influence naturally and lastingly. Say what you mean; live what you say.
The Six Lines
Line 1
Firm seclusion within the family. Remorse disappears.
Clear boundaries and firm structure established from the beginning of family life prevent confusion and regret later.
Line 2
She should not follow her whims. She must attend to the food within. Perseverance brings good fortune.
Fulfilling one's role within the household with genuine devotion, without self-centered straying, is the source of domestic stability.
Line 3
When tempers flare up in the family, too great severity brings remorse. Good fortune nonetheless.
Some firmness in family discipline errs toward harshness; yet a strict household that truly cares is better than one without boundaries.
Line 4
She is the treasure of the house. Great good fortune.
The one who truly nourishes and sustains the household — through care, insight, and devotion — is its greatest treasure.
Line 5
As a king, approach your family. Fear not. Good fortune.
Leading the family with both authority and genuine warmth — the king's dignity with a parent's love — brings the finest household.
Line 6
Their work commands respect. In the end good fortune comes.
The family leader who walks their talk — whose life is their teaching — earns the deepest and most lasting respect.
For contemplation and self-reflection only. Not a substitute for professional advice.