5. Xū 需

Above is the trigram Kan (Water), below is the trigram Qian (Sky). The metaphorical image of this hexagram is clouds that have gathered, from which rain will soon pour. Rain refreshes everything growing on the earth and provides mankind with food. We must learn to wait for it, despite our immediate need for it. We cannot influence natural phenomena: so in the described situation, the best strategy is waiting, which is undertaken with the purpose of preparation. These are small thoughtful steps on the path to realizing our designs, the hexagram warns us against impulsive and thoughtless actions.
The image of a wise ruler, who 'drinks and snacks during a merry feast' can be interpreted as the image of feeding oneself, one's body, mind, and spirit. There is nothing negative in waiting if not focused solely on it. Soon the situation will develop, so wouldn't it be better to spend this time beneficially, enjoying life and at the same time clearly seeing tomorrow.
Xu does not advise us to worry prematurely about anything or to interfere in matters ahead of time. Nor should we exhaust ourselves. Now is not the best time for battle, the situation cannot be changed, the opponent is too strong. Rather, this hexagram recommends using the time of waiting as spiritual and physical preparation. To reconcile with waiting, to cultivate the quality of patience — does not mean to abandon ambitions. Allowing us to nourish our body and spirit, patience enhances our ability to use favorable opportunities.
Waiting is hard when we are not sure that everything will happen in the best possible way and in its own time. We can learn to endure an apparent delay in movement if we firmly believe in the favorability of the future. When we internally believe in the achievability of our goals, the act of waiting itself can become a cause for joy.
It is important to remember the need for proper planning. For there will come a time to act, the period of waiting will end and a period of active actions will begin.