Traditional Reading of I Ching Hexagram 53, Gradual Progress

I Ching Hexagram 53

The hexagram 53 of the I Ching, Gradual Progress, consists of the Wood at the top and the Mountain at the bottom. It symbolizes a tree growing peacefully on the hills. The tree's growth movement is in harmony with that of the Mountain, because it grows in the heights. This tree can grow peacefully because it is protected by the distance produced by the mountain. However, this slow progress is not simply an upward movement, because the tree's strength comes from the movement of deepening its roots in the Mountain. Growth needs to be secured. In this way, it is in contact with its basis and which allows progress.

Quick guide for interpretation

By keeping in touch with what is fundamental, we can do small steps towards a safe progress.

I Ching Hexagram 52