Exploring I Ching Hexagram 19: Approaching

Hexagram 19, known as “Approaching”, is a compelling chapter in the I Ching Oracle, offering guidance on themes of support, careful advancement, and opportunity. This hexagram suggests a favorable approach to life, where positive influence, growth, and cooperation are fostered. The energy of Hexagram 19 often indicates an opportunity to create alignment between goals and actions while staying grounded.

Let’s dive into three scenarios where the 19th Hexagram offers valuable insight, including instances of Hexagram 19 unchanging, Hexagram 19.1.2 -> 2, and Hexagram 19.1.3 -> 3.

Scenario 1: Technical Project – Navigating a Software Launch

Context: Imagine you are managing a software launch for a product designed to improve workflow automation. You’ve encountered a key moment where decisions about strategy and team roles could either enhance or hinder the project’s success. Consulting the I Ching, you draw Hexagram 19.

Hexagram 19 Unchanging

With this Hexagram unchanging, the I Ching Oracle suggests a straightforward path where you approach the project with confidence, relying on foundational support. The unchanging energy implies stability in current strategies, and the oracle encourages you to maintain your leadership approach, keeping team motivation high. It’s a reminder that the project is likely on the right track if you stick with established practices and nurture a culture of open collaboration.

Hexagram 19.1.2 Changing to Hexagram 2

With lines 1 and 2 changing, the oracle transitions from the 19th Hexagram to the 2nd Hexagram, signaling a shift from active leadership to a more receptive, supportive role. This shift implies the need to embrace adaptability, allowing team members to take the initiative. Hexagram 2 emphasizes yielding and trust, encouraging you to prioritize support rather than micromanaging. It suggests that by empowering your team, you can achieve greater progress and innovation through collaborative input, yielding a more refined and adaptable product.

Hexagram 19.1.3 Changing to Hexagram 46

In this variation, Hexagram 19 transitions into Hexagram 46, the hexagram of “Pushing Upward.” This progression indicates a readiness to elevate the project to new heights. Here, the I Ching advises that steady persistence and an incremental approach will enable sustainable growth. Each small step towards your goal is significant, so consider refining development phases, implementing feedback loops, and maintaining a steady pace. The oracle encourages a strategic upward climb, where building upon each success will lead to a reliable and effective launch.

Scenario 2: Navigating an Emotional Connection – Moving Closer to a Partner

Context: In a romantic relationship, you and your partner are in a period of deepening connection. You’ve both been vulnerable with each other, and there’s a sense that things are evolving into a more committed phase. You consult the I Ching and receive Hexagram 19.

Hexagram 19 Unchanging

With 19 unchanging, the oracle suggests that this approach in your relationship is grounded and aligned with the natural flow of intimacy. There’s no need to rush, as the unchanging hexagram encourages allowing things to progress organically. Trust the mutual support you’ve built, as it represents a strong foundation. This is a time to embrace patience and focus on nurturing shared goals, strengthening the bond over time without forcing outcomes.

Hexagram 19.1.2 Changing to Hexagram 2

In this scenario, with lines 1 and 2 changing, the hexagram shifts from 19 to Hexagram 2, a hexagram that signifies receptivity and openness. This transition advises a shift in focus from active pursuit to a more passive and supportive role. Let the connection deepen naturally by being open to your partner’s needs, allowing both of you to feel seen and supported. This approach nurtures the relationship and emphasizes the importance of quiet understanding, fostering a safe environment for emotional growth and acceptance.

Hexagram 19.1.3 Changing to Hexagram 46

When 19 transitions into Hexagram 46, there is a sense of “Pushing Upward” in the relationship. This path suggests that both partners may feel an increasing readiness to commit further or work on longer-term plans together. This is a positive time to discuss future aspirations, whether that involves moving in together, making travel plans, or any endeavor that signifies progress. Taking gradual steps toward these shared dreams can strengthen your relationship, as you build upward together, forming a strong base for the future.

Scenario 3: Reconnecting with Family – Bridging a Generational Gap

Context: You’ve had a strained relationship with a family member for years, and there’s a desire to bridge that gap. Whether due to generational differences or past misunderstandings, you’re seeking to mend this connection and turn over a new leaf. Consulting the I Ching, you draw Hexagram 19.

Hexagram 19 Unchanging

With Hexagram 19 unchanging, the oracle suggests a patient and gentle approach to reconnection. Rather than diving into heavy discussions right away, the unchanging hexagram advises that a steady, sincere approach will help rebuild trust. Small, consistent acts of kindness or a gentle presence can create the environment for dialogue. There’s no rush; simply being present and approachable is key here.

Hexagram 19.1.2 Changing to Hexagram 2

When Hexagram 19 changes to Hexagram 2, the emphasis shifts to a receptive and yielding attitude. The oracle encourages you to listen more than speak, allowing your family member to feel heard and valued. Hexagram 2, known as “The Receptive,” invites openness without judgment, allowing the other person to express themselves fully. This transition supports the creation of a respectful and compassionate space, fostering a gradual reconnection based on understanding and acceptance.

Hexagram 19.1.3 Changing to Hexagram 46

When Hexagram 19 changes to Hexagram 46, the oracle signals a period of “Pushing Upward,” encouraging a positive step toward mending the relationship. Progress may feel slow, but each conversation or shared experience is an essential building block. This hexagram invites a practical approach, where you can gradually rebuild the relationship by doing activities together, finding common ground, and making steady progress towards reconciliation. It is a call to create a new, more mature connection, growing the relationship step by step.

Understanding I Ching Hexagram 19 Approaching in Various Contexts

Each scenario demonstrates the unique wisdom of Hexagram 19, showing how it can guide both technical and emotional decisions. Whether it remains unchanging, changes to Hexagram 2, or transforms into Hexagram 46, Hexagram 19 is about growth, patience, and the beauty of gradual progression. These insights reflect the versatility of the I Ching Oracle in adapting to life’s diverse challenges, offering guidance in a way that resonates across personal and professional spheres.

Explore more about Hexagram 19, and discover how other hexagrams might offer insights for your unique journey, by visiting our detailed interpretation on Hexagram 19.

Each reading with the I Ching Oracle offers an opportunity to find clarity, allowing you to approach life’s complexities with wisdom and composure. Whether you’re navigating relationships, projects, or personal growth, these ancient insights can help illuminate the path ahead.

Explore more insightful interpretations of other I Ching hexagrams by visiting our dedicated Hexagrams section.