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Hexagram 45: Gathering Together

By James Byrd

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I. The Oracle

A. Core Meaning
Hexagram Forty-Five follows its course by attempting to garner speech and influence others at a crucial gathering. The essence is clear: people already sense the importance of this time.

1. Gathering Together. The King approaches his temple.

   • Everything is now favorable; all is good.

2. The Judgment.

   • Success. Perseverance furthers in the long-term.

   • To bring great offerings creates good fortune.

   • It furthers one to undertake something.

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B. The Image

• The Lake over The Earth: the image of Gathering Together.

• A good time to meet with the great man.

• Thus the superior man renews his weapons in order to meet the unforeseen.

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II. My Interpretation – “Stay the Course”

Gathering Together highlights the importance of unity and sincerity in times of collective effort. It reminds us that caring for oneself is as vital as caring for others. A caregiver risks falling ill if they neglect their own health—an important metaphor for leadership and responsibility.

While gatherings strengthen communication and ensure all stakeholders remain informed, they also carry risks: exposure to opposing ideas, public criticism, or even metaphorical “contagion.” Like the mosquito, distractions or negativity may spread unseen.

Yet all is well, because someone has brought forth a gift—whether knowledge, wisdom, or resilience built through endurance. These gatherings reveal the power of sincerity, responsibility, and steadfastness.

To expect difficulties is one thing, but to accept false sentiment imposed by others is another. Strategic vision requires foresight—choosing auspicious ground and acting with reason. Challenges may nibble away at one’s merit, but sincerity preserves integrity.

Above all: Stay the course.
Remain true to your purpose, uphold your responsibilities, and never mislead. Authentic leadership demands endurance, sincerity, and balance.

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References

• Byrd, James (2018). The Future

• Huang, Kerson, and Rosemary (1987). I Ching

• Karcher, S. and Ritsema, R. (1995). I Ching: The Classic Chinese Oracle of Change

• Legge, James (2012). The I Ching: The Book of Changes (Sacred Books of China)

• Reifler, S. (1974). I Ching: The World’s Oldest and Most Revered System of Fortune Telling

• Van Over, R. (1971). I Ching

• Wilhelm, R., and Baynes, C.F. (1967). The I Ching, or, Book of Changes (Bollingen Series XIX)

• Wilhelm, Hellmut and Richard Wilhelm (1995). Understanding the I Ching

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