The name of the hexagram, Chun, represents a new shoot pushing against obstacles and struggling to burst its way through the soil  in the first days of spring, hence the meaning, “difficulty at the beginning.” The situation points to chaotic confusion and thunder and rain fill the air.  The chaos clears and the thunderstorm brings release from tension.

Times of growth  are beset by difficulties resembling a first birth.  A new cycle is beginning, involving change and reassessment of beliefs and values.  It is important not to remain alone but to seek out  experienced helpers to overcome the chaos.  In order to find one’s place in the infinity of being, one must be able both to separate and to unite.