Approach (Lín)

Judgment

临：元，亨，利，贞。至于八月有凶。

Plain Meaning：Approach: great success through correctness—yet by the eighth month misfortune comes; prepare while ascending.

Image (Great Commentary)

泽上有地，临；君子以教思无穷，容保民无疆。

Line Texts

• 初九咸临，贞吉。

  Approach through sincere resonance—steadfast fortune.

• 九二咸临，吉无不利。

  Sincere approach—fortune, nothing that does not further.

• 六三甘临，无攸利。既忧之，无咎。

  Sweet-talking approach profits nothing; but with concern and correction, no blame.

• 六四至临，无咎。

  Complete, attentive approach—no blame.

• 六五知临，大君之宜，吉。

  Wise approach—befitting a great ruler; fortune.

• 上六敦临，吉无咎。

  Generous, honest approach—fortune without blame.

Symbolism

Earth above the lake: overseeing with closeness and care.

Life Lesson

Lead through sincerity and wisdom, and guard the peak against decline.

Modern Application

In an ascending phase, manage hands-on and generously; avoid mere flattery.

Words of Caution

Growth is cyclical; prepare for the turn while still rising.