The I Ching Speaks!



     47.  K'un / Oppression (Exhaustion)

          ---- ----
          ----------     above     Tui    The Joyous, Lake
          ----------
          ---- ----
          ----------     below     K'an   The Abysmal, Water
          ---- ----

     The Judgement

          Oppression. Success. Perseverance.
          The great man brings about good fortune.
          No blame.
          When one has something to say,
          It is not believed.

     The Image

          There is no water in the lake:
          The image of Exhaustion.
          Thus the superior man stakes his life
          On following his will.

     The Lines

     ()   Nine in the second place means:
          One is oppressed while at meat and drink.
          The man with the scarlet knee bands is just coming.
          It furthers one to offer sacrifice.
          To set forth brings misfortune.
          No blame.

          Six at the top means:
          He is oppressed by creeping vines.
          He moves uncertainly and says, "Movement brings remorse."
          If one feels remorse over this and makes a start,
          Good fortune comes.


     12.  P'i / Standstill [Stagnation]

          ----------
          ----------     above     Ch'ien The Creative, Heaven
          ----------
          ---- ----
          ---- ----     below     K'un   The Receptive, Earth
          ---- ----

     The Judgement

          Standstill. Evil people do not further
          The perseverance of the superior man.
          The great departs; the small approaches.

     The Image

          Heaven and earth do not unite:
          The image of Standstill.
          Thus the superior man falls back upon his inner worth
          In order to escape the difficulties.
          He does not permit himself to be honored with revenue.