Also known as Contemplation, View, Observing.
The character 觀 means to look carefully, and also names a watchtower. Hexagram 20 works both ways: you take a wide view of the situation, and others are watching how you carry yourself. Stepping back to see clearly comes before acting.
The figure
Wind over Earth. Wind passes over the land and reaches every part of it. Two strong lines at the top look down over four broken ones below, like a tower over the plain. It is the reverse of hexagram 19: there, strength draws near, and here it stands back and watches.
The judgment
Hands washed, the sacrifice not begun. People are watching, and they trust what they see.
The moment before a ceremony, when everyone is attentive and still, holds a power of its own. Sincerity seen by others persuades them more than words.
The image
Wind moving over the ground, touching all of it. Go and look at the country, watch the people, then decide what to teach.
Look before you lead. Understand how things actually are on the ground before you give direction.
The six lines
Counted from the bottom, the way the figure is built when you cast it.
- Line 1, at the bottom. Looking on like a child. Fine for someone with no responsibility. Embarrassing for someone who should know better.
- Line 2. Looking through a crack in the door. A narrow view. It suits staying in your own corner, but it's too small for wider work.
- Line 3. Looking at your own life to decide whether to move forward or pull back. Self-reflection is the right tool here.
- Line 4. Looking at the light of the kingdom. It helps to act as a guest of the ruler: to advise and serve from a respected position.
- Line 5. Looking at your own life, at the effect you have on others. If it's good, nothing is held against you.
- Line 6, at the top. Looking at your life from a distance, freed from the fray. Not a mistake.
Reading it for a question
Hexagram 20 says observe before you act. Take the wide view, examine your own part honestly, and remember that people read your conduct more than your plans.