8
Hexagram 8, Bi: “Holding Together,” “Union.” It is about alliances and about whom it is worth joining.
The image of the hexagram
Below is the Kun trigram (earth), above is Kan (water). Water over earth: water spreads over the ground and clings to it closely — an image of drawing together.
General meaning
The answer is favorable: it pays you to join forces rather than act alone. Bi speaks of attraction around a center — a person, a cause, a place. An important condition of the classic text: you must join in time, since whoever comes late stays outside the circle; and you should choose whom to join rather than accept the first offer.
In love and at work
In relationships: growing closer, mutual interest, readiness to be together; a good sign for a couple. At work: a partnership, a team, joining a strong organization. For a solo venture the hexagram is weak: without an ally it won’t work.
What to do
Take the hand that is being offered now, not a month from now. And check what exactly you are gathering around.