Hexagram Twenty-Four, Returning

 

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Returning

By James Byrd

I. The Oracle

A. Overview
Hexagram Twenty-Four, Returning, signifies a turning point—a cycle beginning anew. It carries the sense of returning to one’s origins, much like coming back to humble beginnings to celebrate the holidays with family. It reflects the spirit of renewal, the "ghost of Christmas past," reminding us that from small beginnings greater growth emerges.

This is a moment of readiness: the time is correct, there is no surprise in the noble act of return. Whether one goes or comes, no harm arises—movement is free of error, as long as one recognizes the turning point and yields to the natural rhythm of the season.

1. Crossing the Great Water: The image of thunder beneath the earth suggests motion, the feet carrying us forward and back. It speaks to travel, reunion, and returning to the source. As the solstice draws near, returning aligns us with the cycles of heaven.

2. Returning: A solstice of the spirit. The return is not regression but renewal, perfectly timed with heaven’s order.

B. The Image
Thunder within the earth, shaking life back into motion:

• Whatever you do, expect improvement.

• Movement in any direction brings benefit, if balanced with wisdom and restraint.

Legge’s Rendering:
“Progress and freedom of action are found in Return. Goings and comings are unimpeded, and friends approach without error. Return to repeat the proper course. Seven days returns the cycle to its beginning. There is advantage in choosing one’s path.”

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II. My Interpretation

The essence of Returning is captured in Dickens’ Scrooge, confronted by the ghost who urged him to reconcile, repent, and reclaim his true path. To return is to realign with what is correct.

• This is a favorable time to “cross the great river”—to journey, to reconnect, and to engage without fear of error.

• The return ensures success. Friends approach without blame; relationships are restored.

• No matter the direction, movement brings harmony if guided by correct purpose.

This season calls us back—to family, to discipline, to kindness, to the steady path of the Superior Man. Just as lava finds its path back to the earth’s depths, so too must we honor the natural flow of cycles. The solstice, the Yearly Festival, reminds us to pause, return, and give weight to what endures.

Final Note:
Above all, let the return be marked by generosity, self-discipline, and compassion. It is the time to come home, to celebrate, and to reconnect. Happy Holidays, Friends.

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References

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

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

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

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

• Van Over, R. (1971). I Ching

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

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

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