The I Ching Speaks!

     29.  K'an / The Abysmal (Water)

          ---- ----
          ----------     above     K'an   The Abysmal, Water
          ---- ----
          ---- ----
          ----------     below     K'an   The Abysmal, Water
          ---- ----

     The Judgement

          The Abysmal repeated.
          If you are sincere, you have success in your heart,
          And whatever you do succeeds.

     The Image

          Water flows on uninterruptedly and reaches its goal:
          The image of the Abysmal repeated.
          Thus the superior man walks in lasting virtue
          And carries on the business of teaching.

     The Lines

     ()   Nine in the second place means:
          The abyss is dangerous.
          One should strive to attain small things only.


     8.   Pi / Holding Together [Union]

          ---- ----
          ----------     above     K'an   The Abysmal, Water
          ---- ----
          ---- ----
          ---- ----     below     K'un   The Receptive, Earth
          ---- ----

     The Judgement

          Holding Together brings good fortune.
          Inquire of the oracle once again
          Whether you possess sublimity, constancy, and perseverance;
          Then there is no blame.
          Those who are uncertain gradually join.
          Whoever comes too late
          Meets with misfortune.

     The Image

          On the earth is water:
          The image of Holding Together.
          Thus the kings of antiquity
          Bestowed the different states as fiefs
          And cultivated friendly relations
          With the feudal lords.