The I Ching Speaks!



     20.  Kuan / Contemplation (View)

          ----------
          ----------     above     Sun    The Gentle, Wind
          ---- ----
          ---- ----
          ---- ----     below     K'un   The Receptive, Earth
          ---- ----

     The Judgement

          Contemplation. The ablution has been made,
          But not yet the offering.
          Full of trust they look up to him.

     The Image

          The wind blows over the earth:
          The image of Contemplation.
          Thus the kings of old visited the regions of the world,
          Contemplated the people,
          And gave them instruction.

     The Lines

     ()   Nine at the top means:
          Contemplation of his life.
          The superior man is without blame.


     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.