37. The Family (Chia Jen)

Wilhelm Translation

Traditional interpretation based on Richard Wilhelm's translation.

Wind over fire. Represents harmony in relationships and proper management of the household.

Line 1: Firm seclusion within the family. Remorse disappears.
Line 2: She should not follow her whims. She must attend within to the food. Perseverance brings good fortune.
Line 3: When tempers flare in the family, too much severity brings remorse. Good fortune nonetheless. When woman and child dally and laugh, it leads in the end to humiliation.
Line 4: She is the treasure of the house. Great good fortune.
Line 5: As a king he approaches his family. Fear not. Good fortune.
Line 6: His work commands respect. In the end, good fortune comes.