Hexagram 19 · Approach (臨 Lín)
Earth ☷ over Lake ☱
Two strong lines rising from below · growth drawing near
Approach is the hexagram of something good drawing near, a rising, favourable influence that grows the way spring follows winter. Two strong lines have appeared at the bottom of the figure and are pressing upward, gaining ground, like the first warmth pushing into the cold. This is a hopeful, expanding time. The opening is genuine and the energy is climbing, and the book wants you to use it while it lasts.
Earth sits above, receptive and yielding; Lake sits below, joyous and open. The two new yang lines below are the approach itself, growth on the rise. The commentary pairs the encouragement with one honest caveat: the favourable phase is real but it is not endless. There is even an old reference to misfortune in the eighth month, a reminder that seasons turn. So the counsel is to step forward generously now and to prepare wisely for the eventual ebb, the way a good harvest plans for the winter to come.
What this hexagram counsels in a reading
When Lin answers your question, an encouraging phase is approaching, and the counsel is to make the most of the rising tide. Step forward generously. Take the opening while it is open. At the same time, do not assume the good season is permanent; prepare for its eventual turn so that you are not caught out. The hexagram has a particular warmth toward those in a position of influence, advising them to approach others, teach, and protect without limit while the favourable time holds.
In love and relationships
For relationships, Approach is a warm and promising sign of growing closeness, of something good drawing nearer. It favours stepping toward the other person generously and openly, meeting them where they are. If a connection has been distant, this hexagram suggests the thaw is real and the moment is right to move closer. The one note of wisdom is not to take the warm season for granted, but to nurture it so it can deepen.
In work and money
In work, Lin marks a rising, expansive period where opportunities are growing and advancement is favoured. Move forward, take initiative, and make use of the climbing energy. With money, it points to growth and increasing fortune, while quietly advising you to prepare for the cycle's eventual turn rather than overextending on the assumption the rise continues forever.
Moving lines and the changing hexagram
The moving lines of Approach describe different qualities of drawing near, from joint and sincere approach, to approach that is merely comfortable, to the great and wise approach of a generous leader. A changing line here usually comments on how you are stepping toward your aim or your people. Read it as guidance on the spirit of your approach. The hexagram it becomes shows where the rising influence is heading once it has gathered.
Its Tarot kin
On the deck side of this site, Approach rhymes with The Empress. Both are images of fertile growth and generous, nurturing increase. The Empress presides over a season of flourishing and care; Lin is that same rising warmth, the favourable influence drawing near and inviting you to meet it generously.
Cast the coins and you might draw this one — try the I Ching tool, or see all sixty-four on the full hexagram grid. For reflection and insight, not fortune-telling — see our disclaimer.