Cui: Gathering Together. Success. The king approaches his ancestral temple. It furthers one to see the great man. This brings success. Perseverance furthers. Over the earth is the lake: the image of Gathering Together. Thus the superior man renews his weapons in order to meet the unforeseen.

Have you felt a collective energy lately? Perhaps you’ve attended a major gathering, joined a new team, or found that resources are starting to converge toward you. “Cui” represents water gathering on the vast earth to form a lake. This symbolizes prosperity and connection, but it also carries a warning: when people and resources congregate, it is essential to maintain a core of belief and order.

Psychologically, this is a lesson in “belonging” and “collective identity.” Humans naturally crave connection; we find safety and strength in groups. However, Cui warns to “prepare for the unforeseen.” When people gather, friction and the loss of individual identity can easily occur. Have you abandoned your personal boundaries just to fit in? True cohesion arises when each individual maintains their integrity within the group.

Practice using “sincerity” as your bridge for connection. You don’t need elaborate words—if you have a clear vision and core values, like-minded people will naturally gather. The text mentions “great offerings,” symbolizing a willingness to contribute to a larger goal. When you stop merely taking and start considering how to create value for the whole, this converging energy becomes life-giving water. Trust that the right connections will amplify your life’s progress.

Laozi said: “The sea can be the king of a hundred valleys because it excels at staying below them.” Cui is the wisdom of inclusion. The earth quietly bears the weight of the water, and thus the water gathers. Taoism teaches that true influence comes from humility. Don’t force others to follow; cultivate a heart as vast as the sea, and beauty will naturally cluster around you. Follow the natural law of attraction—winning without contention is the highest form of leadership.