Waiting for Rain
xū · Water over HeavenWait actively: stay sincere, stay ready, and do not force the rain.
有孚，光亨。貞吉，利涉大川。
Clouds have risen into the sky and the rain has not yet fallen. Sincerity in the wait keeps things bright and open. Hold steady, and when the hour comes, the great river can be crossed.
The six lines
初九：需于郊，利用恆，无咎。
You wait out in the open country, far from the trouble. Keep your ordinary routine going with patience, and no fault comes of it.
九二：需于沙，小有言，終吉。
You wait on the sand, nearer the water. A few sharp words may come your way, but stay calm and it can turn out fine.
九三：需于泥，致寇至。
You wait in the mud at the water's edge. Your own position is inviting raiders in. Be careful where you have planted yourself.
六四：需于血，出自穴。
You wait where blood is spilled, and the danger is real. Climb out of that hole. Read the situation closely and let it guide your escape.
九五：需于酒食，貞吉。
You wait over wine and food. Rest and feed yourself in a settled way, stay true, and this goes well.
上六：入于穴，有不速之客三人來，敬之終吉。
You have dropped into the hole, and three visitors show up unasked. Greet them with respect. Help from an unexpected quarter may end well.
The I Ching is a tool for reflection. Do not use it as the basis for medical, legal or money decisions.