What this hexagram is about
Clouds rise into the heavens, and the rain has yet to fall — the image of waiting. When the time is to wait, one steadies oneself; in waiting, gather strength and keep faith, and do not force what is not yet ripe.
The Judgment 卦辞
需，有孚，光亨，贞吉。利涉大川。
With sincerity, there is bright success; perseverance brings good fortune. It is favorable to cross the great river.
The Image 大象传
《象》曰：云上于天，需；君子以饮食宴乐。
Clouds rise into the sky, awaiting rain; so the noble person eats, drinks, and is glad while he waits.
Commentary on the Lines 小象传
需于郊，不犯难行也。
Waiting in the open country — not venturing rashly into danger.
The Six Lines (hover over the figure above)
Six at the top入于穴，有不速之客三人来，敬之终吉。
Fallen into the pit, yet three uninvited guests arrive; meet them with courtesy and respect, and in the end there is good fortune.
Nine in the fifth place需于酒食，贞吉。
Waiting at ease amid food and wine; holding to what is right brings good fortune.
Six in the fourth place需于血，出自穴。
Caught in a bloody danger, one must find the way to climb out of the pit.
Nine in the third place需于泥，致寇至。
Waiting in the mire, now hard against the place of peril — this draws robbers near.
Nine in the second place需于沙，小有言，终吉。
Waiting on the sand, drawing nearer to danger; there is some idle talk and dispute, yet in the end good fortune.
Initial Nine需于郊，利用恒，无咎。
Waiting in the open meadow; hold to the constant and do not act rashly, and there is no fault.