An Analysis of the Structure, Ethics, and Ontology of the 'Jia Ren' Hexagram in the Zhou Yi
This paper deeply investigates the philosophical implications of the 37th Hexagram, 'Jia Ren' (The Family), in the *Zhou Yi* (Book of Changes), analyzing the relationship between the 'Wind over Fire' trigrams and the Way of the Family, while interpreting the fundamental position of the 'family' within ancient social structures through the lens of early Confucian concepts of 'foundation' (ben).
Section 4: Returning from Kuí to Jia Ren: The Way of Reunion Amidst Divergence
Since Jia Ren can turn into Kuí, can Kuí revert to Jia Ren$13
The answer is yes. The final line of the Kuí Tuan Zhuan, "How great is the utility of divergence when the time is right!" ($\text{kuí zhī shí yòng dà yǐ zāi}$, 睽之时用大矣哉!) hints that the state of divergence contains immense potential for transformation. Seeing the possibility of unity amidst divergence, and resources for complementarity amidst difference—this is the application of "great utility."
Specifically within the family: even if estrangement and divergence have occurred, as long as one can:
- Restore Sincerity ($\text{fú}$): Face each other openly, no longer hiding or deceiving.
- Restore Mutual Love ($\text{jiāo xiāng ài}$): Re-establish care and trust.
- Restore Order (Each in their proper place): Re-clarify respective roles and responsibilities.
- Restore Rules (Guarding the family): Re-establish or revive lapsed family rules.
Then, Kuí can revert to Jia Ren—divergence can once again become cohesion.
This cycle from Jia Ren to Kuí and back to Jia Ren mirrors the reality of family life: no family can maintain perfect harmony forever; conflicts and divergence are inevitable; but as long as there is the willingness and ability to repair, the Family Way can return to the right path after every divergence.