Hexagram 53 Line 6: 上九

Classical Chinese Text

上九 鴻漸于陸。其羽可用為儀。吉。

鴻漸于陸。其羽可用為儀

Wilhelm Translation

The wild goose gradually draws near the cloud heights. Its feathers can be used for the sacred dance. Good fortune.

Commentary

The wild goose gradually draws near the cloud heights. Its feathers can be used for the sacred dance. Good fortune. Life comes to its end; work stands completed. The path rises high toward heaven, like wild geese leaving the earth far behind, keeping strict formation. If their feathers fall, they can serve as ornaments in sacred temple dances. The life of one who has perfected themselves becomes a bright light for the people of earth, who look up to them as an example.